Tell me that I can’t, and I will. Tell me that I shouldn’t, and ... well, I will. Or I’ll make a pretty good go of it anyway. I’m persistent and persevering, yes, but I had no idea that it’s just as fulfilling to be supported as it is to be challenged. When people try to hold me back, I may blossom, but when people rally around me, I truly thrive.

In putting together this, the very first issue of Her Nashville, I found out just how much girl power and support exists in Middle Tennessee. Over the past four months since I started on Her, I have met so many inspiring gals. I have learned so much from lots of truly intelligent women. And I have discovered that every woman — EVERY woman — has more to offer than meets the eye. We all have hopes and dreams. We have imaginations and goals. And somewhere inside, we have what they call chutzpah, or supreme self-confidence, as well we should.

While this isn’t a magazine that touts female supremacy, it is most certainly one that celebrates women and all that we are and can be. I must have told this to 1,000 people if I told it to one: my goal for every single issue of this magazine is that every person who reads it will walk away with at least one thing that inspires and motivates them. Perhaps it’s the story about Anne Knauff that moves you to get out in your community and volunteer more. Or, maybe it’s the story on entrepreneur Paula Swift that will finally get you moving on that business idea you had. Maybe you’ll find humor (or take comfort!) in knowing that other moms are also concerned their children may still be using sippy cups as adults. Whatever is your thing, I think we’ve got something to offer.

Lucille Ball once said, “Ability is of little account without opportunity.” And she’s right. I have been given the most amazing opportunity to run this new ship, and I hope I serve
you readers well.

So ladies, without further ado, Her Nashville ...