Hi! I'm Anna. I'm from Durham, NC. My background is in community mental health and writing. I've been doing a lot of traveling to promote my memoir about spiritual trauma and the importance of mental healthcare in order to break the stigma in religious communities. The best part for me is meeting people and learning about places from locals. I'm a single mom, love empowering women through fitness at domestic abuse centers, enjoy making mediocre art, and attending as many random festivals as possible. I'm a lifelong learner and always curious to learn what I do not know along with what matters to other people.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

The best way to visit new places is to build relationships and understand other people's perspectives about a place. I want to meet people who have lived different lives than me. My best friends live across the globe where I've met in a variety of countries. I'm not looking for just a place to stay, but to get to know you!
I think there's a lot of misconceptions about southern culture. If you stay with me, I'd love to introduce you what has kept me dedicated in living here and the liberating communities that continue to evolve.

Interests

• writing
• festivals
• coffee
• running
• music
• history
• art
• exploring
• museums
• meeting new people
• weightlifting

Music, Movies, and Books

My favorite writers are Jesmyn Ward, Zadie Smith, and Leslie Jamison. I have six bookcases in my apartment and I could use more. Any writing that introduces me to a new subculture--I am sold.
Some of my favorite artists include Radiohead, Julien Baker, Sufjan Stevens, and The National. (I'm a Swiftie but that's a big secret.)

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

When I was eighteen, I was a college drop out and promise I'd write a book by the time I turned thirty. I did it..and it got reviewed by NYT. The best part wasn't the publication, it's been the people I've been able to meet. I write to help others. Books are an offering

Teach, Learn, Share

I teach creative writing at a community college and would gladly teach you and provide writing lessons. I'm also getting certified to be a trainer and can help you build a routine. I Iove learning about the body and particularly about how that can help us heal. I'm an incredible baker and will gladly bring you any southern food that you desire.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I am a storyteller and driven to help others tell their stories. I love helping people think through creative ideas and bringing their projects to fruition. I'm happy to help out however you need! Obviously, you will be in my next book acknowledgments. I'm happy to help with cleaning, cooking, and a free therapist.

Countries I’ve Visited

Belgium, Canada, Estonia, Ethiopia, France, Germany, Israel, Jamaica, Kenya, Mexico, Palestine, Spain