.137 Laura Rouse

Talking with Laura the other day brought back a flood of good memories and great vibes. Just hearing Laura’s voice is enough to make you feel happy and at ease, and then when you add in her contagious laughter, well, you’re officially in a good mood. Laura really is such a positive force in this world. We officially crossed paths when she became part of the TEDx team in DC and it didn’t take long for her to become a crucial voice, brain, friend, and presence for me and the entire team.

Laura is a very up-for-anything type of person. No project or task during those TEDx years was ever beneath her; she would always approach everything with such a wonderful solution-based mindset and of course her incredible intelligence. She’s truly good company to be around, so much so that I remember the days when she wasn’t at a team meeting because the energy was different. She’s a true leader and does a phenomenal job at being honest, open, and strong, in turn inviting others to be the same. In a word, Laura is kind. She’s compassionate and giving and quite literally spends her days helping others achieve the success they are fighting toward.

Laura, thank you for bringing your full self to everything you do. Thank you for being such a sweetheart and such a pleasure to be around. Thank you for inspiring us all to be better humans by following your example. Thank you for always making me laugh and for your kind words the other day. Thank you for being a friend and dear part of a wild chapter in my life. Thank you, Laura, for being you!

-BD