How often have you reshaped your path?

My life has been anything but linear—and that’s what makes it mine.

I’ve worn a lot of hats over the years, each one a thread in the fabric of my creative journey. Here are just a few:

• Translator for a rock band on tour in Brazil

• Costume assistant for an American movie shot in Rio

• Fashion marketing manager

• Experience working at big companies like Nabisco and Sony Music

• Fashion blogger for 5 years

• Bar host at a vibrant gay bar

• Fashion producer

• English teacher in Rio

• Founder of a pop-up brand for emerging designers

• Fashion TV host

• Health coach

• Content agency owner

• And most recently: filmmaker, writer, coach, foodie, educator, and multi-business entrepreneur

  
  

Sounds like a lot, right?

But the truth is, each role helped me uncover a little more of who I am.

Reinvention became my rhythm. Every job, every pivot, every challenge taught me something new—about myself, about resilience, about creativity. And every step shaped the storyteller I am today.

Life isn’t always clean or predictable. It's full of plot twists. But there’s power in the mess, and beauty in the process.

I’m here to say that you don’t need a straight line to success. Your story—however unexpected—is worthy.

So I ask you:

Can you see a bit of your journey in mine? If so, I’d love to hear it. Let’s celebrate the twists, the reinventions, the heart-led choices.

Drop your story in the comments below or send me a message here.

Finding Resilience Through Storytelling: My Experience on the All About Us Podcast

Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to join Carl Allen on the All About Us Podcast, where I shared my journey as a Brazilian-born storyteller, writer, filmmaker, and breast cancer survivor. This powerful conversation delved into themes of resilience, creativity, and the transformative power of authentic storytelling. It was a truly humbling experience to reflect on my path and discuss how our stories, no matter how personal, can inspire and empower others.

From Rio to Resilience

Growing up in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, I learned early on how resilience is deeply tied to adaptability. My journey took me from the vibrant streets of Rio to building a creative life in Indianapolis, USA. Moving across cultures shaped my perspective, not just as a storyteller but as a human being navigating life’s transitions. On the podcast, I reflected on how these cultural experiences fueled my creativity and taught me to remain true to myself while embracing change.

The Power of Storytelling

Storytelling has always been my passion, and it became even more vital during my journey through breast cancer. In the episode, I opened up about how storytelling became a healing tool—both for me and for those I’ve shared my story with. The experience of creating my short film, The Fat Lady, was a culmination of this passion, and I shared behind-the-scenes insights into how this project allowed me to weave personal themes of identity, judgment, and resilience into art.

Key Takeaways

During the podcast, we explored some vital lessons I’ve learned along the way:

• Resilience is rooted in adaptability. Moving through different cultures and facing life-altering challenges like cancer has taught me to adapt while staying authentic.

  
  

• Storytelling is a healing process. Sharing my journey, whether through film or personal narrative, has been a powerful way to find strength and connect with others.

  
  

• Authenticity is everything. Whether in personal life or professional projects, being true to your story is the key to meaningful work and relationships.

  
  

“Resilience is rooted in adaptability and staying true to yourself in new environments.”“Your story matters. Sharing it can heal you and inspire others.”

Listen to the Full Episode

In this episode, I also discussed my creative process, the importance of community in filmmaking, and how embracing vulnerability can empower others. To hear the full conversation and learn more about my journey and my work, check out the All About Us Podcast: Finding Resilience Through Storytelling with Rita Avellar.