When I first moved to Austin after college, I showed up to the walks not thinking it would ever turn into the incredible community I have today. I was so nervous that I came to my first walk with a list of pre-prepared topics to make me sound impressive because I didn't trust that I was funny, interesting, or intellectual enough.

What I discovered was completely different. The walk isn't about impressing anyone. No one was looking for anything from you. Our job titles never even came up! It was simply about being curious. Bring a topic, share it with the group, and explore. I'd always felt like I had something to prove in conversations, especially with strangers. But here, I could show up knowing absolutely nothing and just riff. For someone as shy as I was, filled with nervous energy and self doubt, that was transformative.

The people I've met have become lifelong friends and mentors. They've guided me in so many ways, given me constructive criticism, called me out when I needed it, and kept me from going off the deep end. The lessons I've learned and the person I've grown into as a result of countless conversations on the walk have massively shaped who I am today.