For a little bit about me . . .
I guess the first thing I’ll share is that my name is Icelandic (from my mother’s side of the family) and pronounced “yo-hah-nah”.
I grew up in Spain, India, Japan, and Venezuela, and have a B.A. in International Comparative Studies and Anthropology from Duke University. I am a writer, editor, actor, and advocate.
My family lived in many countries because my father was a deep cover intelligence officer for the CIA. You can read more about that in my mother’s highly-rated memoir, Six Car Lengths Behind an Elephant: Undercover & Overwhelmed as a CIA Wife and Mother by Lillian McCloy, which John le Carré describes as “a charming and unusual portrait of the secret life”.
I edited my mother’s book. I also give talks and presentations about her book, that life, and my own experiences as a spy’s daughter. I also write about some of those experiences in my Substack publication, In This Life.
My next book, Dare to be Fabulous, features women’s personal stories of daring, joy, and empowerment. I edited this book and also contributed a personal essay. A blurb excerpt from Julianna Margulies: “This book brought me tremendous joy and insight, and brought me back to believe in the human spirit”.
Currently, I am co-authoring a spy novel with James Lawler, a retired member of the CIA’s Senior Intelligence Service and author of three spy thrillers. Our novel is about a spy and a spy’s daughter, titled Loose Threads.
My essays and articles have been published in magazines, newspapers, NPR programs, and books. I also consult and provide editing services for individuals working on projects of their own.
In addition, I’m a professional actor with starring and guest starring roles in award-winning theater, television, and film.
I’m also a plant-based advocate. My one-woman campaign, Soy Happy*,which later became Veggie Happy, successfully opened the door to veggie dogs in Major League Baseball parks. I also facilitated viable plant-based menu options at other large sports venues and foodservice establishments.
On a more personal level, I am an avid hiker and nature lover and am happiest when I’m with my husband, immersed in the gorgeous Eastern Sierra.
I am a creative and empathetic person. In all I do, I like to ask questions; I like to listen; I like to explore; and I like to connect with heart and purpose. 🥰
*Soy Happy was covered by mainstream media, including Sports Illustrated, USA Today, ESPN Radio, and many, many others. Link to read the features in Los Angeles Times and San Francisco Chronicle.