What is it about stories?

The human story has always fascinated me. We share so much in common, yet each of us carries a completely different narrative — who we are at our core when we are being truly vulnerable and authentic with ourselves is something I think about often. It was only until I was able to see the story in myself that I could really see the story in others. I’ve found that most people deeply want to be heard, but few know how to really listen; that paradox is compelling.

In my late thirties, a series of life events pulled me inward and asked me to look closely at my own origin story — who I am, where I come from, my birth story, my parents, and generations before me. It took nearly a decade of reflection and deep work and gave me a power I didn’t know was possible. But it makes sense. I think of the power of the myth throughout human societies.

While I’ve spent most of my day-to-day work in real estate, what’s always captivated me is the story of space that runs quietly, parallel to this work — the way people move in and out of physical spaces, how transitions carry emotion, memory, and meaning. I’ve been part of writing groups and storytelling projects for years, and I’ve found that when I share this lens, it really resonates with others. Stories are how I make sense of my experience, how I connect with people, and how I try to create space for others to do the same.

Can you speak to your experience?

I grew up in my family’s real estate business — and it was truly hands-on. I watched buildings get stripped to the studs and rebuilt while we lived in them. There were always tools and materials around, makeshift scaffolding outside my window, and buckets in the hallway catching roof leaks. My father came to the United States as an immigrant, and he built his business from the ground up, re-making spaces and re-imagining them as he went. That’s a whole story in itself, but it was that constant navigation of physical space — and the emotional weight spaces carry — shaped me from an early age. I’ve always understood what it means to move through transitions, especially when space holds memory.

Growing up in a multicultural and multilingual home made me sensitive to the nuances of language and I saw early on how most conflicts stem from poor communication — even if you’re speaking the same language, from the same culture. Studying linguistics deepened that awareness, and through years of living and working across various cultural and professional landscapes, I used my study of linguistics to enhance my natural abilities in conflict resolution.

I have this really long life experience that has danced around different areas of real estate and communications. I also have some solid experience holding roles in marketing, analysis, and conflict resolution. My work has spanned multiple business developments, re-organizations, re-brands and other related transitions.

Do you work alone or with a team?

It depends on the project, but when there is a need for more than what I can provide on my own and it’s relevant, I rely on a network of talented people that I’ve collaborated with for a long time — people who are specialists in their own fields. I have cultivated a group of people who share the same passion and drive that I do and I’ve known them all for a really long time.

What are your specific credentials?

I hold degrees in both writing and accounting to satisfy both my right and left brain apparently, and most recently an MA in applied linguistics, As part of my training in applied linguistics, I gained hands-on experience and certifications in intercultural communication and ethnographic research. As a real estate professional, I hold advanced certifications in ethics and integrity from the National Association of REALTORS® as well as the specialized SRES® designation in order to work specifically with seniors and families advocating for seniors and their specific real estate needs.

I believe that lived experience plays an equal role — and often a greater role — in the work we are able to do for others. A formal certification or designation is only as good as the training and experience behind it. I have extensive, decades-long experience coaching and mentoring people in various positions and areas of conflict and stages of the in-between as well as editorial and documentary work around transcribing the lived stories of others. I have references and links for these specific things if that is requested.

What is the significance behind the name Sereia?

The name Sereia holds a lot of meaning for me. The word means mermaid in Portuguese and the historical symbolism that mermaids have around human transformation and ‘finding one’s voice’ felt meaningful as I developed my independent work. Sereia is also my given apelido — or nickname — in capoeira, which is a Brazilian martial art that I have practiced for over two decades.

Landing on the name for my own business happened when I was actually in the middle of my own personal transformative place. I was sitting with a good friend who has known me for many years inside and outside of capoeira. I was sitting with her brainstorming a re-conceptualization of my business in order to really encapsulate all that I do, and she said, “It’s all you, though. You’re able to help people in this really specific way that is so special. It’s you. It’s all Sereia.” So that’s the moment where the name stuck.

What might a new client expect?

It really depends what each project calls for, but when someone reaches out, the first thing we do is spend time talking. I want to hear their story and understand what starts to take shape as their primary objective. Often there’s an objective that needs to be developed and that is where we start. When someone takes the initiative to reach out, it’s an important moment so I want to be sure I take the time necessary to really see the whole picture. How I work with each client is very unique to each situation, but from initial contact, we lay out a plan that will work to provide the best service. Sometimes it’s a few hours of communication coaching; sometimes it’s a brand story audit — it’s very specific to the client.

Where are you located?

I live in the Pacific Northwest but depending on technology and travel, I’m able to serve clients almost anywhere.

Do you have references?

I am honored to have some really wonderful references from people I’ve worked with across many industries. I am happy to provide these as requested.