Venna was only twelve when she gave her first speech, which took place at a 4-H speech contest. She won! She valued her farm heritage and religious upbringing and continued to give award winning speeches in 4-H, high school & college, and at various church events. Today Venna continues to inspire others with same angelic spirit she possessed in her youth.

Unique career experiences:

Venna developed a unique career niche by creating multiple careers from her volunteer activities. Her ‘surprise angel landing’ on Dr. Robert H. Schuller’s world wide Sunday morning television program launched her most popular program title, It’s Not How You Fly, It’s How You LAND! Her commitment to perform as a ‘Flying Angel’ resulted in the creation of a sales career as a manufacturers representative in the wholesale gift industry, long before angels were popular. She became known internationally as the ‘Angel lady rep.’

A desire to acknowledge the cooperative spirit and teamwork involved in working with volunteers became the inspiration for her writing endeavors. Contributing a story in the book Getting Along with Almost Anybody sparked Venna’s first publishing experience. However, it was her son, Brian’s leadership as the Commander of the United States Air Force Thunderbirds, that led to her contribution in the book Stories from A Soldiers Heart.

The essence of performing with a volunteer cast of 300, on the largest indoor set in the world, and the spontaneity of dealing with live animals on stage required a tremendous amount of teamwork and flexibility. Venna wrote her first two books Glory Stories about the pageants to recognize and acknowledge the team efforts of the production staff and cast. Her next book Behind the Scenes was the only historical and pictorial account of almost 30 years of the Glory of Christmas and Easter pageants and contains over 200 photos and stories.

Education and professional accomplishments:

• Doctorate of Ministry/Communication 2010–California School of Graduate Theology–a division of Haven University
• James M. Roche “Spirit of Volunteerism” Award presented by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve–an agency of the Department of Defense given to less than 1% their 7000 members
• Woman of Achievement San Jose Mercury News and the Women’s Fund
• Frequent interview guest on Dr. Robert H. Schuller’s world wide TV programs
• Appeared in an ABC-TV Special “In Search of Angels”
• National Speakers Association Northern California Chapter
• Airbnb–Super Host
• Volunteers–Mineta San Jose International Airport, Saratoga Federated Church, Hammer Theater, Mt. View Center for Performing Arts, Homeowners Association Board

Most thrilling adventure:

Venna has experienced many adventures in her life, but perhaps the most thrilling was when she skydived with members of the United States Army Golden Knights Parachute team!

What to expect:

Venna touches hearts, engages minds, and stirs souls while bringing the spirit of joy and purpose into your program or event. She ignites a spark of God’s magnificence and inspires participants or residents to reach beyond their grasp to seek a plan or purpose for their lives. With practical proven techniques and a refreshing vision Venna sparkles with enthusiasm while she shares her unique touching stories. Guided by the Holy Spirit she challenges and entertains audiences with her witty memorable messages. She conveys a transformational spirit that is infectious and transforms ordinary minds to become brilliant team players.