We were lucky to catch up with Jalene Murphy recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Jalene , really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
It just took me forty years to figure that out! My journey wound through closing a 15 year heterosexual marriage, a mental health storm I had to weather, and a closet door I had to fling wide open. I shed layers of Catholic guilt and shame, learned to fall deeply in love with myself to finally found my true self. Out of that messy, beautiful rebirth came Modern Day Courage—a book I wrote to be a shining light for others.
All that lead me to my purpose – to help other live with unshakeable courage!
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
My next step in becoming an author is stepping onto the stage — public speaking is my next great adventure. It feels like a natural extension of my writing: another way to connect, to share the message of Modern Day Courage.
This new chapter is about more than just talking; it’s about creating spaces for real, honest conversations. The kind that makes people feel seen, challenged, and inspired. I want to bring stories of courage, transformation, and truth into the room — to remind us all that bravery isn’t about being fearless, it’s about being real.
I’ve always loved connecting and being in community. There’s something special about gathering — about looking around a room and realizing we’re all navigating life. I believe community is the key to unlocking and addressing the messy, beautiful topics that shape us. When we come together, we grow together.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Curiosity
Curiosity has been one of my greatest teachers. It’s the spark that keeps life interesting and growth alive! One of the simplest ways to stay curious is to keep asking “why?” — about yourself, others, and the world around you. Follow those questions wherever they lead, and don’t be afraid to dig deeper. Read, listen, explore.
Asking for Help
Somewhere along the way, I learned to believe that asking for help meant weakness. But the truth is, asking for help is one of the bravest things you can do. It’s an act of courage, humility, and self-awareness. We’re not meant to face life alone. Let others support you — let people in.
Courage
Courage is the heartbeat of transformation. It’s what carries you forward when the path feels uncertain. Courage doesn’t always look loud or bold — sometimes it’s a quiet voice whispering, “just one more step.” Trust yourself. Each small act of bravery builds something bigger. Keep showing up!
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
My parents have loved and supported me through every evolution of my identity — from when I called myself straight to when I embraced being gay. Through the highs, the lows, and all the in-between moments, their love has never wavered (even though they rarely express it!). They’ve given me the space to make my own choices — to stumble, to learn, to rise again. They didn’t judge (even though they may not totally understood). They simply loved. Steadfast. Quiet. Unconditional.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jalenemurphy.com
- Instagram: @jalenemurphy
- Linkedin: JaleneMurphy
Image Credits
Jon Rode.
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
