Meet Andrea Merrill

We had the good fortune of connecting with Andrea Merrill and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Andrea, how do you think about risk?
Risk-taking has been more than a career strategy for me; it’s been a lifeline. I didn’t choose to pivot my career on a whim or simply because I wanted a change. I pivoted because life handed me one of the hardest seasons I could have imagined. After nearly losing my life with my fifth child, my family and I faced a financial storm—our home was in foreclosure, the HOA was auctioning off our house, and our water was even turned off. I was pushed to a point where taking risks wasn’t optional; it was necessary to keep moving forward.

So, when I think about risk, I see it as a fierce kind of courage, the kind you only find when you’re backed into a corner and the stakes are painfully real. Risk became the fuel that pushed me to dig deep, reinvent myself, and build a career not just to survive but to thrive and support others in ways I never thought possible. Each risk since then—every new program, every bold strategy—has been rooted in that deep understanding of what it truly means to lose it all and fight back.

Today, my work isn’t just about taking risks for growth; it’s about channeling that courage to help others turn their stories into something powerful, something that can change their lives just as my story did for mine. Risk has redefined my path, and I’m grateful for it—because without those hard moments, I wouldn’t be here, doing this work that I love, or making the impact I am today.

What should our readers know about your business?
Alright, let’s get into it! My business isn’t just about storytelling—it’s about transformation. I work with ambitious, heart-centered speakers, coaches, and entrepreneurs to turn their stories into powerful, revenue-driving assets. But what really sets me apart is how I approach storytelling. I’m not just a coach. I’m a Storytelling Speaker Monetization Strategist with over 20 years of experience, a Master’s in Psychology of Applied Behavioral Analysis, and a background as a behavior and trauma therapist.

This isn’t just some surface-level “let’s get your story polished and pretty” kind of work. My approach dives deep into psychology and behavior, creating what I call “sticky audiences”—audiences that don’t just listen, they connect, remember, and stay loyal long after the mic drops. I help clients craft a story that captivates and compels action. It’s about using psychology-driven techniques to turn that story into a business asset that connects, converts, and brings real results. It’s this unique blend of psychology, strategy, and authentic storytelling that makes my work so powerful and distinct in a crowded field.

How did I get here? Honestly, it wasn’t by choice; it was by necessity. After nearly losing my life during the birth of my fifth child, my family faced intense financial hardship—foreclosure notices, an HOA auctioning off our home, even our water getting shut off. It was a season of survival that forced me to dig deep and turn my knowledge, my grit, and my skills into something that could create stability and legacy for my family. I used every tool in my arsenal—my background in psychology, my storytelling skills, and my determination—to rebuild my life from the ground up, and that journey is what fueled my passion for helping others do the same.

I’m most proud of the transformations I’ve helped create. My clients aren’t just generating six- and seven-figure businesses; they’re creating legacies. They’re building authentic connections with their audiences that go beyond sales and deeply resonate. They’re finding confidence in their story, owning their message, and creating communities of loyal followers. That’s what excites me—seeing them step into their power, turn their stories into catalysts for impact, and build a legacy that’s as profitable as it is meaningful.

Lessons along the way? I’ve learned that success is built on resilience, alignment with purpose, and an unbreakable belief in your own impact. It’s never just about the strategy—it’s about finding the strength to keep going, even when it’s tough, and building something that’s not just sustainable but soul-driven. Boundaries, purpose, adaptability—these are the keys that have kept me going.

What do I want the world to know about my brand and story? I’m here to help speakers turn applause into lasting impact. I’m not interested in shallow or salesy tactics; I’m here to help people craft stories that move audiences to care, to act, and to stay engaged. My unique blend of psychology and storytelling means I’m not just here to give you another script—I’m here to help you build a business that reflects your purpose, connects deeply with your audience, and drives results that last. This isn’t just my business—it’s my calling, my journey, and my legacy. If you’re ready to make your story unforgettable, impactful, and profitable, I’m here to make that happen. Let’s build something that sticks.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If you’re looking to experience Arizona like a true insider, here’s the ultimate week-long itinerary to capture the magic of the desert, the excitement of the cities, and a few hidden gems that bring the Southwest to life. This trip combines the best places to eat, drink, explore, and relax for an unforgettable time in Arizona.

Day 1: Welcome to Arizona – Relaxation & Local Flavors
Kick off the adventure by soaking in the Arizona vibes at The Henry in Phoenix, a brunch hotspot with an eclectic vibe and must-try avocado toast. Mimosas in hand, you’ll get a perfect start to the week. Next, head over to Castle Hot Springs for an afternoon of relaxation. This luxury retreat offers naturally heated hot springs nestled in the desert—a slice of paradise that’s both rejuvenating and quintessentially Arizona.

Finish off the day with a farm-to-table dinner at FnB in Scottsdale, where seasonal dishes showcase local ingredients. Later, grab a creative cocktail at Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour to wrap up the evening.

Day 2: Desert Adventure and Stargazing
Start the day with a sunrise hike up Camelback Mountain or Piestewa Peak for an incredible view of the valley at dawn. Then, refuel with wine and bruschetta at Postino for lunch—a relaxed spot famous for its boards and laid-back vibe.

In the afternoon, explore the Desert Botanical Garden where you’ll find Arizona’s iconic cacti and desert blooms in full display. Then, embark on a road trip to Sedona, checking into a cozy Airbnb with views of the breathtaking red rocks. Dinner at Mariposa will give you a taste of Sedona’s culinary scene, paired with sunset views. The day ends with a bit of stargazing—Sedona’s dark skies are perfect for spotting constellations.

Day 3: Sedona’s Red Rocks & Energy Vortexes
Sedona’s landscape is even more captivating in the early morning, so start the day with a sunrise hike at Cathedral Rock or Devil’s Bridge. These hikes are famous for their beauty and their “energy vortexes” that add a magical twist to the journey.

Later, ground yourself with a sound healing session or visit The Chapel of the Holy Cross—a stunning architectural landmark built into the red rocks. For lunch, Indian Gardens Cafe offers local flavors in a tranquil setting. Spend the afternoon exploring Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, where you can find unique art galleries and charming shops. Dinner at Elote Cafe brings bold, Mexican-inspired flavors to cap off a perfect Sedona day.

Day 4: Flagstaff – Art, Science & Sips
Make your way to Flagstaff for a day of discovery in Arizona’s high country. Along the way, a quick stop at Oak Creek Canyon offers scenic views. Once in Flagstaff, Diablo Burger is the perfect spot for a locally-sourced burger with a touch of hometown flair.

In the afternoon, visit Lowell Observatory for a closer look at the stars and planets. Flagstaff is recognized as the world’s first International Dark Sky City, making it an ideal place to explore the cosmos. Round out the day with dinner at Proper Meats + Provisions, then grab a craft beer at Mother Road Brewing Co. for a relaxed evening.

Day 5: Grand Canyon Adventure
A trip to Arizona wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. Drive up early and spend the day hiking along the South Rim, capturing the beauty of this natural wonder from different viewpoints. To make the day even more memorable, enjoy dinner at El Tovar Restaurant on the canyon’s rim—classic charm with a view you won’t forget.

Day 6: Back to Phoenix – Art, Shopping & Spa Time
Return to Phoenix and check into the Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort for a day of relaxation and rejuvenation. This iconic Arizona resort offers top-notch spa treatments and breathtaking views, perfect for unwinding.

For lunch, try The Mission in Old Town Scottsdale, where Latin flavors bring an exciting twist to the menu. Spend the afternoon strolling through Roosevelt Row in downtown Phoenix, where vibrant street art and local shops create a lively atmosphere. Stop by Songbird Coffee & Tea House for a caffeine boost before heading to Little Miss BBQ for some of the best BBQ Arizona has to offer. Finish the night with live music and a retro vibe at The Womack.

Day 7: Desert Memories & Farewell Brunch
On the last day, take a scenic drive out to Superstition Mountain and do a short hike in Lost Dutchman State Park to soak in those final desert views. Wrap up with a farewell brunch at Hash Kitchen in Phoenix, where the DIY Bloody Mary bar and creative menu make for a memorable send-off.

This itinerary gives you the best of Arizona, blending relaxation, adventure, culture, and incredible food. From stargazing under Sedona’s dark skies to exploring the Grand Canyon, and relaxing in desert hot springs, every day is designed to showcase Arizona’s unique charm and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re hiking the red rocks, exploring artsy neighborhoods, or indulging in local flavors, Arizona has a way of leaving its mark.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I love this question! It’s so important to pause and acknowledge the people and influences that have been the bedrock of my journey.

First and foremost, my husband deserves a massive shoutout. When everything fell apart—when we were facing foreclosure, when the water was turned off, when it felt like every wall was closing in on us—he was my anchor. He believed in me when I was struggling to believe in myself, juggling the intense demands of family life and a career pivot that, frankly, felt like a gamble at times. He kept me grounded, and he reminded me that our strength was in facing things together. He’s been my biggest supporter through every risk, every late night, every bold decision.

Second, my five incredible kids have been a constant source of inspiration. They are the reason I get up every day and give everything I have to this work. Each of them has shown me what resilience truly looks like. They are my “why,” and their love and laughter have lifted me through even the toughest days.

And finally, there’s the community of strong, fearless women I’ve had the privilege to work with and learn from. Women like Patrice Washington have shown me what’s possible and reminded me that I have a responsibility to lift others as I climb. Being surrounded by mentors, friends, and clients who are heart-centered, ambitious, and unafraid to pursue big dreams has kept me on fire with purpose. And, of course, I can’t leave out the countless books on psychology, resilience, and personal growth that have provided both knowledge and solace in times of doubt.

To everyone who’s been part of my journey, knowingly or unknowingly, thank you. This isn’t a solo story—it’s a story woven with the encouragement, wisdom, and love of all these amazing people.

Website: www.andreamerrill.co

Instagram: www.instagram.com/virtuallyadventurous

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/virtuallyadventurous/

Image Credits
https://theknowwomen.com/, https://www.instagram.com/quiannamarie/, https://www.instagram.com/etherealhouse_/