Meet Kelly Paola, Cortico’s New Partner Support Specialist!
Kelly is joining us from Pittsburgh, PA and brings her experience in relationship management, operations, and international nonprofit programming to our team. Most recently Kelly worked as an ESL instructor and Front of House Manager at an 80-seat restaurant. Kelly is also a registered yoga and meditation instructor.
What is a value that has shaped who you are, and how it brought you to your work at Cortico/with LVN?
Empathy has always been one of my core values. Being able to understand and even share someone’s feelings or experiences is one of the most beautiful parts of being human. Working directly with Cortico’s partners affords me plenty of opportunities to indulge in other people’s stories and take part in amplifying them.
What is a community that has shaped who you are today?
I’ve been practicing yoga for about 5 years and teaching classes for just over 2, and the community I’ve found there has been instrumental in my personal development. Being a part of that community not only helped me find my voice as a teacher, but also provided space for me as a student to learn, move, and grow in an environment that perfectly balances challenge and support.
What is a sound that you love? What about one that you hate?
The chirping (some might say shrieking) of cicadas on a warm summer night or the crackle of wood in a hot campfire are two sounds I love. I really hate the sound of any old-school, abrasively beeping alarm clock.
What are your favorite/least favorite words?
Some of my favorites are caveat, enigma, analogous, and didactic. Some of my least favorites are yolk, ointment, and coronavirus.
What is something you’re excited about working on?
I’m extremely excited to work with Cortico’s incredible array of partners and find ways to deepen our connections and foster more meaningful relationships via LVN.
What profession other than your own would you attempt?
The possibilities! They’re endless. I’d attempt a career as an investigative journalist or perhaps a pastry chef.
What’s one of your favorite LVN conversations or/highlights and why?
I love this highlight from a conversation for the Foundation for Black Women’s Wellness. Michele’s message is powerful and her candour and ability to share her story in a raw, conversational way ultimately embodies that which makes LVN conversations special.
Which reality show would you have the highest likelihood of winning?
I’ll say Survivor. Because although I’d be crying and shuddering in a cave the first time there was a rainstorm, true Survivor fans know that the least intimidating players can turn out to be the biggest threats. Strategy is everything.
What is one piece of media (newspaper, magazine, podcast, etc.) that you would recommend to others?
I’m a big NPR fangirl in general. I know the Moth Radio Hour is already (rightfully) popular but truly: it makes me laugh, it makes me cry — it’s an absolute gem.
