Meet Meghan Ensell | Writer, Editor and Storyteller

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

Hi Meghan, what principle do you value most?
Vulnerability. It’s the foundation to relationships and connection. We don’t truly connect with people — which I think is the main reason we are here, on earth — unless we show each other who we really are. I believe that in showing someone our flaws, we allow that person to let down their guard and take off their mask. Vulnerability breeds vulnerability.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m a writer and storyteller. (And soon-to-be podcaster!) I’m a copywriter at Arizona State University but I also write memoir and perform at live storytelling events, like The Moth. I write about proposing to an ex with a chicken bone. I write about marrying my husband and raising our two children in a pandemic. I write about sneaking drugs into jail. I write about my kids finding and playing with our sex toys. I write about adopting a dog during COVID. I write about my friend dying from alcoholism. Relationships. I love writing about relationships. I’m currently working on a podcast about parenting with a friend. She’s divorced with two kids and I’m married with two children so I’m excited about the different views and experiences we will each bring to this endeavor. My background is actually psychology — my master’s degree is in clinical psychology. I’ve worked in prisons and psychiatric hospitals. But then I got burned out and fell back on my love for words. My writing generally centers around people and relationships. I find the way we tick and interact with each other nothing short of fascinating. My writing is vulnerable, honest and real. I’m excited to leave that piece of me behind for my kids.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Mystery Castle: It was built by a father for his daughter. The three-story castle, completed in 1945, is made of stone, adobe, car parts and petroglyphs and is held together by a cement mixture including goat’s milk. Last time I was there, the daughter, Mary Lou, gave the tour. (She may have since passed away.) Camelback Mountain: Great hike, great views. Japanese Friendship Garden: Serene spot in the center of downtown. Barrio Cafe: Hands down, the best guacamole. Carolina’s: For tortillas. It’s a battered hole in the wall with folding tables and chairs, but the food makes up for it. Durant’s: For a cocktail (or steak) and to feel like we’re in an old-school movie, or just fancy. Nishikawa Ramen: Best ramen I’ve had — outside of Japan. Forno 301: I go for the pizza. I stay for the limoncello. The Sanctuary: For drinks with a view. Maybe a massage. The Royal Palms: To use their pool. Papago Park: The red rocks are cool.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Teresa Strasser: I don’t know her, but it was her writing that taught me how to write earnestly and vulnerably. Greg Ensell: When I doubt myself, which is often, my husband pushes me to keep going. I benefit from his acceptance and confidence. Archer and Isla Ensell: My kids give me so much material! I also just love them to pieces.

Website: https://meghankrein.medium.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megensell/

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

Twitter: @megkrein

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/megkrein