GRRRL Live 2018 Testimonials
Tiff D.
“GL18 was life changing for my daughters. They believe in this brand and movement so hard now. My thirteen year old is so proud to be part of this and feels so powerful as a girl. She’s always known she was smart but there is a different sort of confidence to her knowing she has support of women like you and knowing that she deserves all the things she wants to go after in life, and that she doesn’t have to fit into some mold that the rest of society tells us to be successful.
My 17 year old has found a group of girls who she can relate to and reach out to when she needs support. Something she has never really felt she needed. She fees supported in a way that doesn’t come from
Family. On top of that she has learned so much about what she faces as a woman becoming an adult and also what other women who aren’t as privileged face and it’s changed her outlook on life.
I can’t even put into words how grateful I am for the two of them to have you and this army of girls, never mind it’s effect on me ❤”
Jenn C.
“Why I attended GR18. Last year at GR17 I was given a great opportunity to reflect on my own journey and build tools to improve. In reflection - it was a great time to work on me. This year, GR18 gave me time to reflect on how I am putting the lessons learned, my current mindset and the tools learned on my journey to the outer world. In other words - how can I put the message of self love and improved perspective outside of myself. This year GR18 gave me a chance to think about how I can be active in our community. Several personal activities gave me time to think about how to "pay it forward". Its not just about learning - its also about sharing. And this year - you instilled this in my mindset.”
Maddie H.
“GL18 was so life changing for me. As cliche as it may sound, I truly felt accepted and loved for who I was. Not once did I feel out of unloved or unwanted. I have battled severe depression for almost 20 years and I lost my mother 10 months before GL18. I was ready to end it all before I went and had this experience. I was ready to leave this world. This woman, Kortney Olson and her wonderful GRRRL tribe saved my life in one weekend. I will support this company and Kortney Olson until the end. I will return to GL19, GL20, GL21, GL30, GL40, GL50. GRRRL: Live saved my life and I owe everything to this tribe of warriors ❤”
Gretchen H.
“I was at GL17 which was so cool but this year my experience at GL18 was nothing short of amazing. The opportunity to connect with other women in a supportive and engaging environment is something that is so hard to come by now a days. Kortney has created a platform for women to come together, learn, grow, and heal. Personally i was able to continue to address and work on my own personal issues in an incredibly supportive environment. I am so thankful for Grrrl clothing and the experience at GL18. I have already purchased my ticket for GL19 as I now know this is something that has to be a part of my life every year.”
Michayla D
GL18 was a life changing event. I broke through what's been holding me back from happiness... LITERALLY!!! The sense of sisterhood and community was so incredible and overwhelming. As soon as it was over I told (not asked) my sister that she is coming next year, and we have already both bought tickets! KO built a little home for all of us to feel seen, loved and acknowledged, and that means the world to me. GL18 gave me the push I needed to finally focus on myself and love who I see in the mirror. I cannot wait for next year!!!
Natalie V
I walked away from GL18 with a type of self confidence that can’t be broken. I learned some key parenting techniques that have already improved my relationship with my kids. I made life-long, meaningful connections; I now have grrrl friends across the globe that I know I could call on if I needed them. If I had to sum up the weekend in just three words they’d be: community, sisterhood and strength.
I’ll be attending GL19 & have already bought my ticket a year in advance. This is an event that I would encourage every grrrl to attend, words can’t really sum up all the personal gains you will walk away with.
Kristen D.
GL18 literally changed my life. It opened my eyes and my heart. Even though it’s been about a month Some of the lessons still hit me. People have seen a change in me.
I made friends that I consider my sisters. We talk all the time. It was such a wonderful experience. I WILL be back next year along with a few others that after hearing my stories want to come too
Cassie M.
GL 2018 was 100% life changing. The overwhelming feeling of sisterhood and love is there in room, in every single grrrl’s eyes, in the way they greet you and hug you and cry with you as we all took the same gorgeous journey to self love. The seminars were eye openers and life affirming. I learned to love myself again. I wore shorts for the first time in years and wasn’t self conscious or worrying about what other people thought of me.
And best of all, I made lifelong connections and friends from all over the world. I believe every woman should attend GRRRL Live to take their confidence and self love back.
Dustine S.
GL18 was the first grrrl event I had ever attended, yet going there and seeing the grrrl army felt like going home. Imagine going somewhere where total strangers wave and yell "Hey grrrl hey!!" From across the room. Being able to walk up to a crowd of complete strangers and feel welcomed and supported. It was something very new and different for me and it is something I will never forget. We were all able to bond and share some pretty deep dark stuff and always get a hug whenever needed. The speakers were awesome as well and I learned a lot about so many things, way too much to go into here. I already have tickets for next year ❤❤❤
Shawna R.
I went to GL18, and I learned so much. The first thing I noticed was that the clothing is a way to identify my sisters. But the friendships are more important. I learned it's okay to 100% be myself, and I will be accepted because of my authenticity. My confidence has soared; a price can't be placed on empowered women.
Amanda H.
GL18 was my very first experience meeting all the amazing women that I have come to know and love from our online Facebook group. At first I was very nervous that I may not fit in or have anyone to talk to; however once I arrived that feeling very quickly vanished! Every single woman I met was amazing, sweet,beautiful and strong there was such an amazing sisterhood that flooded the rooms and through out the entire hotel. Meeting Kortney Olson was the very highlight of the whole experience she was 100% everything she appears to be online and so much more! When you speak she stops and truly listens and takes an interest in what you have to say. The movement that Kortney Olson has started is like no other she is the ripple effect. I left GL18 with a whole new love for myself and my new found sisters I have already purchased my ticket for GL19 because when you hear GRRRLS say it is a life changing event you better believe it!!! Thank you Kortney Olson for just simply being you and showing me that it is ok to love myself. 💙
Kanoelani P.
This is my 2nd GRRRL LIVE & it was as transformative as the 1st but in a different way. I got to meet so many women that I had been talking to online for 2 plus years & that made my heart swell. But as a women of color the panel on I intersectional feminism really made me happy & proud to see issues that directly affect my life & community talked about & also addressed in a way that could help us build bridges & make action items. I loved hearing from out deaf community on that panel as well. I learned so much from Amber & Clara Baldwin. When we talk about intersectional feminism & realizes that our disabled community gets forgotten about & they have issues & deserve to have their voices heard. The final thing is after 25 plus years of dealing with disordered eating & binge eating I am finally on a path to working on those issues & it’s with the big help of GL18 as I am slowly working with one of the speakers Debbie Lichter. I can’t thank y’all enough for everything. And I most definitely am coming to GL19. I wouldn’t miss it & holler at me if you need any help ❤❤❤
Krystal S.
I've spent my whole life feeling judged and looked down upon when surrounded by women. Like I was never "enough" to fit the norm. And then I went to GL18 and I finally felt what its like walk into a room full of women and feel a wave of love and acceptance, rather than competitive judgement. I made lifetime friends with women who before that weekend I had never met. I found the woman that I used to be, and the woman I want to move toward becoming. And I will forever owe that to Grrrl and GL18. I have every intention of being at every Grrrl Live that follows!❤
Mandi WB.
The moment I stepped off the plane I was wrapped in the arms of sisterhood. Seeing women come together from all over the world to not only learn about themselves but also sisterhood was unbelievable. It was the first time I felt like I belonged somewhere. I learned that I am stronger both physically and mentally than I thought I was. Breaking a board and lifting a 100lbs sandbag ( I’m coming for that 140lbs next year) were things I never thought I could do physically however being able to open up to a group of females about my pasted showed me just how strong I really can be. For a small town girl with social anxiety to jump on a plane for the first time ever to come to this event says how important this event was. We as females are strong and we need Grrrl to be able to spread this message and be able to reach more Grrrls.
Stephanie B.
I bought my GL19 ticket 78 seconds after the email announced they were for sale. This movement is changing lives and I plan to be a part of it, for every women. This forum is where the work happens, where the hard conversations happen, where change takes place. One of my life goals is to one day be a speaker at these events. In the mean time, I am so grateful for the opportunity to continue to learn and grow from each and every member of the GRRRL Army. #GRRRL
Gentley B
Let's get real. I met KO almost 2 months after almost attempting suicide. She pulled me in, heard my story and told me to get my ass to Vegas. Sponsored my tickets. Two panic attacks. Flying alone for the first time as an adult. And the weekend changed me. Is still changing me. I have made life long friends. Who impact my life in the daily. I bought my GL19 tickets the day they released. You will not find anyone else like her. She sacrifices herself to cause a ripple effect that is touching so many souls. I might not have made it this far without her and her movement.
Misty D.
This was my second time going to GRRRL Live and it was amazing! I was able to help some women who needed it, I saw positive changes in women from guest speakers, and I've made lifelong, amazing, supporting relationships which I and they both need!❤ I was able to build confidence by breaking a board with my fist, throw an axe (got a bullseye), and get out of my comfort zone by dancing and doing a photo shoot around other women. Things like that make me stronger! I'm 43yrs old and am learning so many things, I only wish I had Kortney, my women and GRRRL Clothing in my life sooner. I can't wait to see my friends, meet & help new women next year and learn even more life skills for myself!
Liz Stigler, PhD
The work being done at GL18 and by the brand, largely, is unlike any of its kind. The fidelity of this model exists in its ability to create an international network of women and girls who have been searching for a home and find it at GRRRL. This brand is truly a community of folks dedicated to eradicating injustice and misogyny of all sorts. There is no brand in the world doing this kind of work on this level with this sort of motivated following.
Victoria M
This was my first time going to GRRRL Live and words cannot explain how amazing this experience was. I have NEVER seen a movement like this before with so many women supporting each other through thick and thin. I literally built so much confidence going there, it helped me build connections to incredible women around the world and reach out to them whenever, got rid of my stage fright, and let me open up more. This was a safe environment and I know no one would judge me there and that made me so happy. Hearing the guest speakers changed my life and I hope I touched the lives of people there as well. Thank you Sistah KO for the opportunity! I cannot wait for GRRRL Live ‘19!!!
Cait K.
The GRRRL who boarded the plane was not the same GRRRL who came back home. Not only did I make life long friends but I was surrounded by nothing but love and empowerment — which money can't buy! I am learning how to love myself and truly be happy. I am much more proactive because well... life is short. I am coming back in 2019 ready for more growth! Can’t wait!
Heather S.
It’s not everyday you go to a 3 day event not knowing a single person and leave with a whole entire new Family. GL18 truly changed me. I loved all the events and speakers but what changed me was all the conversation and connects I made with all the Grrrls. I never knew I needed these ladies in my life. Now I have sisters that get me, that are there for me and are apart of me. So yes GL18 changed my life. GRRRL POWER!!!!!
Bev P.
GL18 awakened something in me that I forgot existed and I'm ready to set the world afire!! I was actually very hesitant to attend at first and talked myself out of it several times. However I realized if im willing to spend money on my professional and leadership growth why can't I do it for emotional growth and sisterhood. Day 1 was jammed packed with empowerment and embracing our inner strength. Day 2 was emotionally raw and helped me face many truths I have never said out loud before. Not only that but every conversation was amazing and making such incredible connections with extraordinary women was beautiful and unlike anythjng Ive ever experienced before. I definitely plan to attend next yr.
Clara G.
I learned that I'm stronger than I think. I learned that I can help others reach their goals even though I havent conquered mine yet! I learned that there are so many different women everywhere but when we have have the same accord: celebrate ourselves and eachother, we are one and differences dont even matter. This year I brought 4 extras woman, next year I am bringing as many woman as I can next year.
Stephanie T.
GL18 allowed me to connect with other like-minded women who I remain connected with ... and whom will play a significant role in my future, which in turn will impact the world (through the work that I will be doing). I have already invested in GL19, because I know that I am worth it and the content and connections I'll experience there will be worth 100 times the cost of admission. #blessings #TogetherWeRise
Katie K.
GL18 completely changed my life. I have never been one to show emotion because showing emotion was showing weakness. Kortney Olson and the whole GRRRL Army showed me to embrace my emotions. My emotions are a strength! They are who I am! I will be attending the next GRRRL Live and every single one that follows!! I believe this event is something every woman should have the opportunity to attend!
Stephanie BP.
GL18 is the ONLY place bringing women together in this manner to lift each other up to celebrate one another to learn grown and educate each other. An army of women on a mission to do good thing to
Love one another as well as ourselves to make a positive impact on this world! It’s time to do good things and GL is where it’s starting! Yes I will be at GL19 and GL20 and GL21 and GL22 and everyone after that. I’ll bring more and more women with me year after year and we will make a positive impact on this planet and all those who walk it.
Nicole C.
GL18 changed my life. First time was this year and I will never ever miss a year going forward. I have learnt so much about myself in that one weekend that no other human or doctor could teach me in 38 yrs! I flew to Vegas and travelled by myself, shared a hotel with a stranger and I would do it all over again without a doubt! The grrrlarmy is nothing but a loving, supporting and non judgmental group that I am proud to be a part of! I’ve never cried so much in my life and it was so freeing to not be ashamed to let it all out! KO your a goddess and someone that everyone should look up to! You have the power to change the world!
Clara B.
GL has doubled in numbers since I attended the very first one and I assure you that it will TRIPLE next year. With this being said-there will be more representation in diversity that we will serve to accommodate so they experience the conference just like everyone else. I have sparked some new deaf women’ interest in attending GL 19’ and it will make sense to have more fundings for professional ASL interpreting team. We must choose venue that will be conscious of all Grrrls’ needs. Within 5 years or less of time GL will be something everyone talks about and you will either: wished that you provided the sponsorship or is GLAD that you guys did! I’ve learned so much and as a deaf person it feels really great to be able to interact with many bearing women!
Kait
I went to GL18 without having connected with anyone and without anyone I know. I was SO out of my comfort zone. However, I knew I was in a bad spot in my life. A verbally/mentally abusive MMA coach damaged my thought process/the way I view myself and then life threw some big changes at me at the last second causing me to move back in with my parents after being on my own for 5 years following the completion of my masters degree. I went to GL18 terrified, broken, 25 pounds heavier than I was last year, with a masters degree I didn’t want to use, that I feel extremely guilty about not wanting to use because my parents are so proud and I worked so hard. I came home and I made some life decisions. I interviewed for a bunch of jobs that use my licensure and masters degree. I got a lot of job offers from them. I turned them all down. Today I accepted a job as a health coach, making more money than my masters degree jobs would get me, and one week from today I’m moving 5 hours from home to chase whatever it is that makes me happy (not sure exactly what that is but I’m going to figure it out damn it). I’ll be training with a new coach who doesn’t undermine my hard work or mock the fact that I’m a woman and that I have lots of feelings or tell me I won’t ever be good enough. Going so far away scares the shit out of me and I never planned on doing this, but I’m here for it. Thank you, Kortney Olson and every single person who spoke with me for drastically changing the course of my life.
Michayla D
GL18 was a life changing event. I broke through what's been holding me back from happiness... LITERALLY!!! The sense of sisterhood and community was so incredible and overwhelming. As soon as it was over I told (not asked) my sister that she is coming next year, and we have already both bought tickets! KO built a little home for all of us to feel seen, loved and acknowledged, and that means the world to me. GL18 gave me the push I needed to finally focus on myself and love who I see in the mirror. I cannot wait for next year!!!
Natalie V
I walked away from GL18 with a type of self confidence that can’t be broken. I learned some key parenting techniques that have already improved my relationship with my kids. I made life-long, meaningful connections; I now have grrrl friends across the globe that I know I could call on if I needed them. If I had to sum up the weekend in just three words they’d be: community, sisterhood and strength.
I’ll be attending GL19 & have already bought my ticket a year in advance. This is an event that I would encourage every grrrl to attend, words can’t really sum up all the personal gains you will walk away with.
Kristen D.
GL18 literally changed my life. It opened my eyes and my heart. Even though it’s been about a month Some of the lessons still hit me. People have seen a change in me.
I made friends that I consider my sisters. We talk all the time. It was such a wonderful experience. I WILL be back next year along with a few others that after hearing my stories want to come too
Cassie M.
GL 2018 was 100% life changing. The overwhelming feeling of sisterhood and love is there in room, in every single grrrl’s eyes, in the way they greet you and hug you and cry with you as we all took the same gorgeous journey to self love. The seminars were eye openers and life affirming. I learned to love myself again. I wore shorts for the first time in years and wasn’t self conscious or worrying about what other people thought of me.
And best of all, I made lifelong connections and friends from all over the world. I believe every woman should attend GRRRL Live to take their confidence and self love back.
Dustine S.
GL18 was the first grrrl event I had ever attended, yet going there and seeing the grrrl army felt like going home. Imagine going somewhere where total strangers wave and yell "Hey grrrl hey!!" From across the room. Being able to walk up to a crowd of complete strangers and feel welcomed and supported. It was something very new and different for me and it is something I will never forget. We were all able to bond and share some pretty deep dark stuff and always get a hug whenever needed. The speakers were awesome as well and I learned a lot about so many things, way too much to go into here. I already have tickets for next year ❤❤❤
Shawna R.
I went to GL18, and I learned so much. The first thing I noticed was that the clothing is a way to identify my sisters. But the friendships are more important. I learned it's okay to 100% be myself, and I will be accepted because of my authenticity. My confidence has soared; a price can't be placed on empowered women.
Amanda H.
GL18 was my very first experience meeting all the amazing women that I have come to know and love from our online Facebook group. At first I was very nervous that I may not fit in or have anyone to talk to; however once I arrived that feeling very quickly vanished! Every single woman I met was amazing, sweet,beautiful and strong there was such an amazing sisterhood that flooded the rooms and through out the entire hotel. Meeting Kortney Olson was the very highlight of the whole experience she was 100% everything she appears to be online and so much more! When you speak she stops and truly listens and takes an interest in what you have to say. The movement that Kortney Olson has started is like no other she is the ripple effect. I left GL18 with a whole new love for myself and my new found sisters I have already purchased my ticket for GL19 because when you hear GRRRLS say it is a life changing event you better believe it!!! Thank you Kortney Olson for just simply being you and showing me that it is ok to love myself. 💙
Kanoelani P.
This is my 2nd GRRRL LIVE & it was as transformative as the 1st but in a different way. I got to meet so many women that I had been talking to online for 2 plus years & that made my heart swell. But as a women of color the panel on I intersectional feminism really made me happy & proud to see issues that directly affect my life & community talked about & also addressed in a way that could help us build bridges & make action items. I loved hearing from out deaf community on that panel as well. I learned so much from Amber & Clara Baldwin. When we talk about intersectional feminism & realizes that our disabled community gets forgotten about & they have issues & deserve to have their voices heard. The final thing is after 25 plus years of dealing with disordered eating & binge eating I am finally on a path to working on those issues & it’s with the big help of GL18 as I am slowly working with one of the speakers Debbie Lichter. I can’t thank y’all enough for everything. And I most definitely am coming to GL19. I wouldn’t miss it & holler at me if you need any help ❤❤❤
Krystal S.
I've spent my whole life feeling judged and looked down upon when surrounded by women. Like I was never "enough" to fit the norm. And then I went to GL18 and I finally felt what its like walk into a room full of women and feel a wave of love and acceptance, rather than competitive judgement. I made lifetime friends with women who before that weekend I had never met. I found the woman that I used to be, and the woman I want to move toward becoming. And I will forever owe that to Grrrl and GL18. I have every intention of being at every Grrrl Live that follows!❤
Mandi WB.
The moment I stepped off the plane I was wrapped in the arms of sisterhood. Seeing women come together from all over the world to not only learn about themselves but also sisterhood was unbelievable. It was the first time I felt like I belonged somewhere. I learned that I am stronger both physically and mentally than I thought I was. Breaking a board and lifting a 100lbs sandbag ( I’m coming for that 140lbs next year) were things I never thought I could do physically however being able to open up to a group of females about my pasted showed me just how strong I really can be. For a small town girl with social anxiety to jump on a plane for the first time ever to come to this event says how important this event was. We as females are strong and we need Grrrl to be able to spread this message and be able to reach more Grrrls.
Stephanie B.
I bought my GL19 ticket 78 seconds after the email announced they were for sale. This movement is changing lives and I plan to be a part of it, for every women. This forum is where the work happens, where the hard conversations happen, where change takes place. One of my life goals is to one day be a speaker at these events. In the mean time, I am so grateful for the opportunity to continue to learn and grow from each and every member of the GRRRL Army. #GRRRL
Gentley B
Let's get real. I met KO almost 2 months after almost attempting suicide. She pulled me in, heard my story and told me to get my ass to Vegas. Sponsored my tickets. Two panic attacks. Flying alone for the first time as an adult. And the weekend changed me. Is still changing me. I have made life long friends. Who impact my life in the daily. I bought my GL19 tickets the day they released. You will not find anyone else like her. She sacrifices herself to cause a ripple effect that is touching so many souls. I might not have made it this far without her and her movement.
Misty D.
This was my second time going to GRRRL Live and it was amazing! I was able to help some women who needed it, I saw positive changes in women from guest speakers, and I've made lifelong, amazing, supporting relationships which I and they both need!❤ I was able to build confidence by breaking a board with my fist, throw an axe (got a bullseye), and get out of my comfort zone by dancing and doing a photo shoot around other women. Things like that make me stronger! I'm 43yrs old and am learning so many things, I only wish I had Kortney, my women and GRRRL Clothing in my life sooner. I can't wait to see my friends, meet & help new women next year and learn even more life skills for myself!
Liz Stigler, PhD
The work being done at GL18 and by the brand, largely, is unlike any of its kind. The fidelity of this model exists in its ability to create an international network of women and girls who have been searching for a home and find it at GRRRL. This brand is truly a community of folks dedicated to eradicating injustice and misogyny of all sorts. There is no brand in the world doing this kind of work on this level with this sort of motivated following.
Victoria M
This was my first time going to GRRRL Live and words cannot explain how amazing this experience was. I have NEVER seen a movement like this before with so many women supporting each other through thick and thin. I literally built so much confidence going there, it helped me build connections to incredible women around the world and reach out to them whenever, got rid of my stage fright, and let me open up more. This was a safe environment and I know no one would judge me there and that made me so happy. Hearing the guest speakers changed my life and I hope I touched the lives of people there as well. Thank you Sistah KO for the opportunity! I cannot wait for GRRRL Live ‘19!!!
Cait K.
The GRRRL who boarded the plane was not the same GRRRL who came back home. Not only did I make life long friends but I was surrounded by nothing but love and empowerment — which money can't buy! I am learning how to love myself and truly be happy. I am much more proactive because well... life is short. I am coming back in 2019 ready for more growth! Can’t wait!
Heather S.
It’s not everyday you go to a 3 day event not knowing a single person and leave with a whole entire new Family. GL18 truly changed me. I loved all the events and speakers but what changed me was all the conversation and connects I made with all the Grrrls. I never knew I needed these ladies in my life. Now I have sisters that get me, that are there for me and are apart of me. So yes GL18 changed my life. GRRRL POWER!!!!!
Bev P.
GL18 awakened something in me that I forgot existed and I'm ready to set the world afire!! I was actually very hesitant to attend at first and talked myself out of it several times. However I realized if im willing to spend money on my professional and leadership growth why can't I do it for emotional growth and sisterhood. Day 1 was jammed packed with empowerment and embracing our inner strength. Day 2 was emotionally raw and helped me face many truths I have never said out loud before. Not only that but every conversation was amazing and making such incredible connections with extraordinary women was beautiful and unlike anythjng Ive ever experienced before. I definitely plan to attend next yr.
Clara G.
I learned that I'm stronger than I think. I learned that I can help others reach their goals even though I havent conquered mine yet! I learned that there are so many different women everywhere but when we have have the same accord: celebrate ourselves and eachother, we are one and differences dont even matter. This year I brought 4 extras woman, next year I am bringing as many woman as I can next year.
Stephanie T.
GL18 allowed me to connect with other like-minded women who I remain connected with ... and whom will play a significant role in my future, which in turn will impact the world (through the work that I will be doing). I have already invested in GL19, because I know that I am worth it and the content and connections I'll experience there will be worth 100 times the cost of admission. #blessings #TogetherWeRise
Katie K.
GL18 completely changed my life. I have never been one to show emotion because showing emotion was showing weakness. Kortney Olson and the whole GRRRL Army showed me to embrace my emotions. My emotions are a strength! They are who I am! I will be attending the next GRRRL Live and every single one that follows!! I believe this event is something every woman should have the opportunity to attend!
Stephanie BP.
GL18 is the ONLY place bringing women together in this manner to lift each other up to celebrate one another to learn grown and educate each other. An army of women on a mission to do good thing to
Love one another as well as ourselves to make a positive impact on this world! It’s time to do good things and GL is where it’s starting! Yes I will be at GL19 and GL20 and GL21 and GL22 and everyone after that. I’ll bring more and more women with me year after year and we will make a positive impact on this planet and all those who walk it.
Nicole C.
GL18 changed my life. First time was this year and I will never ever miss a year going forward. I have learnt so much about myself in that one weekend that no other human or doctor could teach me in 38 yrs! I flew to Vegas and travelled by myself, shared a hotel with a stranger and I would do it all over again without a doubt! The grrrlarmy is nothing but a loving, supporting and non judgmental group that I am proud to be a part of! I’ve never cried so much in my life and it was so freeing to not be ashamed to let it all out! KO your a goddess and someone that everyone should look up to! You have the power to change the world!
Clara B.
GL has doubled in numbers since I attended the very first one and I assure you that it will TRIPLE next year. With this being said-there will be more representation in diversity that we will serve to accommodate so they experience the conference just like everyone else. I have sparked some new deaf women’ interest in attending GL 19’ and it will make sense to have more fundings for professional ASL interpreting team. We must choose venue that will be conscious of all Grrrls’ needs. Within 5 years or less of time GL will be something everyone talks about and you will either: wished that you provided the sponsorship or is GLAD that you guys did! I’ve learned so much and as a deaf person it feels really great to be able to interact with many bearing women!
Kait
I went to GL18 without having connected with anyone and without anyone I know. I was SO out of my comfort zone. However, I knew I was in a bad spot in my life. A verbally/mentally abusive MMA coach damaged my thought process/the way I view myself and then life threw some big changes at me at the last second causing me to move back in with my parents after being on my own for 5 years following the completion of my masters degree. I went to GL18 terrified, broken, 25 pounds heavier than I was last year, with a masters degree I didn’t want to use, that I feel extremely guilty about not wanting to use because my parents are so proud and I worked so hard. I came home and I made some life decisions. I interviewed for a bunch of jobs that use my licensure and masters degree. I got a lot of job offers from them. I turned them all down. Today I accepted a job as a health coach, making more money than my masters degree jobs would get me, and one week from today I’m moving 5 hours from home to chase whatever it is that makes me happy (not sure exactly what that is but I’m going to figure it out damn it). I’ll be training with a new coach who doesn’t undermine my hard work or mock the fact that I’m a woman and that I have lots of feelings or tell me I won’t ever be good enough. Going so far away scares the shit out of me and I never planned on doing this, but I’m here for it. Thank you, Kortney Olson and every single person who spoke with me for drastically changing the course of my life.