05/03/2026
Greetings!
Yesterday, history was made at the 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby. At the center of that history stood Cherie DeVaux, the first female trainer to win the Derby. Let that sink in for a moment.
In a sport steeped in tradition, where barriers have stood for generations, she didn’t just show up—she changed the narrative. And she did it with a horse named Golden Temple, who went into the race with 23-1 odds.
Not the favorite. Not the expected winner. Not even the “safe bet.”
But they won.
That’s the kind of story that makes you pause—not just because it’s impressive, but because it’s deeply symbolic. It’s a reminder that dreams don’t come with guarantees. They come with risk, doubt, long odds, and a whole lot of people who may not see what you see.
But they also come with possibilities.
As I watched that moment unfold, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own journey. Becoming a published author has been my dream—not just a fleeting idea, but something that’s taken root deep inside me. It’s the kind of dream that keeps you up at night, that nudges you forward when self-doubt creeps in, that asks you—over and over again—How badly do you want this?
Because here’s the truth: dreams don’t just happen. They’re built. Slowly. Quietly. Often, behind the scenes, when no one is watching.
They’re written in early mornings and late nights. In edits and rewrites. In moments of inspiration and moments of frustration. They’re tested in rejection and strengthened in resilience.
And sometimes, they feel a lot like 23-1 odds.
But what yesterday showed us—what Cherie DeVaux and Golden Temple proved—is that odds are not destiny.
They’re just numbers.
What matters more is belief. Persistence. Courage. The willingness to keep going and follow your passion, even when the outcome is uncertain.
I think about all the people who have dreams tucked away inside them. The ones who want to write the book, start the business, change careers, take the leap—but hesitate because it feels too big, too risky, too unlikely.
I get it. I really do.
But what if “unlikely” is exactly where the magic lives? What if the very thing that seems out of reach is the thing you’re meant to chase?
Dreams don’t require permission. They require action.
So this is your reminder—and mine: Dream big! Bigger than feels comfortable. Go for it. Even when it’s scary or seems impossible.
Especially when the odds aren’t in your favor.
Because sometimes, against all odds, you cross the finish line. And when you do, you won’t just change your own story—
You might inspire someone else to believe in theirs.
Have a great week everyone!
—Izzy