We recently connected with Dr. Allegra McGrew and have shared our conversation below.
Dr. Allegra, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
My resilience stems from a foundation built on unwavering support. I was incredibly fortunate to grow up surrounded by a ‘village’ of parents, grandparents, and chosen family who instilled in me the belief that I could achieve anything. This early framework taught me that challenges are not roadblocks, but opportunities to adapt, seek guidance, and persevere.
This resilience was profoundly tested when I lost my mother on September 2, 2023, her 70th birthday, the day after my birthday. She was my closest confidante, my biggest supporter, and my moral compass. Despite her long illness, I always saw her as invincible. Her final hospital stay, however, changed everything, and I had to face the unimaginable—life without her.
The grief is still present, but I’ve learned that even in the face of profound loss, I must continue moving forward. My mother wouldn’t have accepted anything less. Her mantra, ‘Nothing beats a failure but a try,’ resonates deeply, reminding me to persevere. While the journey is difficult, I choose to honor her legacy by embracing positivity and facing each day with renewed determination. This experience has not only tested my resilience but also deepened it, demonstrating my ability to navigate profound adversity and emerge stronger.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I wear a few different hats, each representing a core part of who I am. By day, I’m the Director of Digital Learning at Region 4 Education Service Center, the largest of its kind in Texas. We support over 1.2 million students by empowering educators and administrators with cutting-edge professional development, support, and services. I’m particularly passionate about my department’s work in blended learning, artificial intelligence, and online education, as we’re shaping the future of learning for so many. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the impact of our programs on students and teachers across the region.
Alongside my educational work, I also serve as the Pastor of a small, deeply connected church community. We’re more than just a congregation; we’re a family, many of us having grown up together. My mother and I were ordained together, and my father is a dedicated Deacon, making it a truly special place for me. Even with our small size, we’re committed to meaningful community outreach, and I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve both our members and the wider community.
My newest venture, and a true passion project, is as a Professional Pastry Chef. Last year, I achieved a significant milestone by graduating from Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts with a Diploma and an Associate’s Degree in Professional Baking and Pastry. It was a rigorous program, but it ignited a creative spark within me. Under my brand, ‘Three Peas in a Pod,’ I’m crafting culinary masterpieces that are as beautiful as they are delicious. From classic peach cobblers and pound cakes to intricate Paris-Brests, Tarte Tatins, and deconstructed Black Forest Cakes, my goal is to create desserts that delight both the eyes and the palate.
Looking ahead, I plan to open a small bakery after my retirement from education. The business and baking knowledge I gained at Escoffier has laid a solid foundation for this dream. What’s most exciting to me is the ability to combine artistry and flavor, creating sweet experiences that bring joy. In each of my roles, whether it’s shaping the minds of future generations, nurturing a spiritual community, or crafting delectable desserts, I strive to make a positive impact and infuse a touch of creativity into everything I do.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, I believe the three key elements that have been most impactful in my journey are resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
I’ve navigated significant personal loss and professional challenges. My resilience, built on a foundation of unwavering support, has allowed me to persevere through adversity. Building upon that resilience, adaptability, and the ability to pivot have also proven vital. Juggling multiple roles—Director of Digital Learning, Pastor, and Pastry Chef—requires a high degree of adaptability. I’ve learned to shift gears, prioritize tasks, and embrace new technologies and skills. Maintaining a teachable spirit is essential; there’s always something new to learn. Whether it’s staying abreast of the latest educational technologies, deepening my theological understanding, or mastering intricate pastry techniques, I believe in continuous learning. My recent culinary education is a testament to this.
With these things in mind, my advice to others would be to cultivate resilience by embracing challenges as opportunities for growth. Surround yourself with a supportive network, and learn to reframe setbacks as stepping stones. Remember that emotional strength is built through experience, so don’t shy away from difficult situations. Also, be open to change and willing to step outside your comfort zone. In today’s dynamic world, adaptability is a crucial asset. We also must never stop learning. Seek out opportunities for professional development, personal growth, and skill enhancement. Embrace curiosity and maintain a growth mindset. The world is constantly evolving, and so should you. Make learning a daily practice.
Ultimately, embrace challenges, stay flexible, and never stop learning. These qualities will serve anyone well, regardless of their chosen path.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
When I feel overwhelmed, I’ve learned that proactive strategies are essential. First, I prioritize and break down large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. This instantly reduces the feeling of being swamped. I also find that setting realistic deadlines for these smaller tasks allows me to maintain a sense of control and progress.
Secondly, I’ve come to understand the importance of boundaries. Balancing multiple roles—Director, Pastor, and Pastry Chef—requires me to be very intentional with my time. I schedule dedicated periods for each area of my life and learn to say ‘no’ when necessary. This protects my energy and prevents burnout. My mantra is “Protect Your Peace”.
Thirdly, I actively practice self-care. This includes taking short breaks throughout the day to decompress. Spending time with my Dad, my Fiancé, and my “selected” siblings (I’m an only child). I also make time to engage in activities that I enjoy—like baking, of course—and I make sure that I get enough sleep. I prioritize mindfulness and reading my Bible and devotionals, even if just for a few minutes, to center myself.
Finally, I’m not afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s delegating tasks at work, seeking support from my church community, or simply talking to a trusted friend or family member, I recognize that I don’t have to carry everything alone.
My advice to others is to develop a personalized toolkit of coping mechanisms. Identify what works for you, whether it’s exercise, creative outlets, or simply spending time outside. Acknowledging when you’re overwhelmed is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of self-awareness. Creating healthy boundaries and practicing self-care consistently are not luxuries, but necessities. And finally, build a strong support system. You are not alone, and asking for help when you need it is a sign of strength.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bakesy.shop/b/three-peas-in-a-pod
- Facebook: Three Peas in a Pod
- Other: TikToc: @fulldocofcards
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