Debby Collings has experienced many ups and downs in her life from broken relationships to cancer to career changes; but, she has always managed to find her joy. Whenever she is feeling troubled or just bored, photography has been her outlet, She calls it shutter therapy, and I can attest to her incredible bird photos. Debbie jokes that she must have been a gypsy is a past life, which might explain why she has always had the urge to move around so much. She’s recently moved back to her hometown of Milwaukee to be closer to her family after realizing their support was crucial during her recovery from cancer. 

Notes from podcast:

1. Debbie grew up as a corporate brat, moving around a lot; she’s still on the move, fiercely independent. She jokes around that she must have been a gypsy in a past life, which explains why she always has the urge to move.
2. As the only girl in her family, she had to do its her way if she wanted something done.
3. She often felt like college was a waste of time and frequently considered leaving, which she dd her senior year.
4. Debbie worked in broadcast sales and pharmaceutical sales but was fired after working one year for not having a degree. 
5. She went back to college to famish her degree in art history and found that she really enjoyed it. Today, Debbie works for PetLink selling microchip service to animal shelters, non profits, and animal control. 
6. Debbie was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020, during Covid and lockdown in Colorado.  Her family and extended family were incredibly supportive, and she realized she needed to be closer to family, so moved back to Milwaukee.
7. She finds her joy thru photography; it’s her shutter therapy. 
8. Glady, the cross eyed bear is a remarkable story of survival and defines Debbie’s life. 
9. Today, Debbie is more comfortable with herself. No longer a people pleaser, she’s become more stubborn, set in her ways, and may be another reason Debbie says she’s still single. 
10. What are her words for happiness? Talk to people, don’t sit on your feelings. Find an outlet. When you’re bored or unhappy, do something that brings you joy. For Debbie, this is photography. 

To learn more about Jean and the Be Joyful podcast visit www.bejoyful.love.