Texas Strong Woman Kristin Schell

KRISTINSCHELL

AUTHOR AND FOUNDER OFTHE TURQUOISE TABLE

Austin, Texas

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE TITLESFOR YOURSELF AND WHY?

My favorite titles are Mom, Mrs.,Neighbor, and Queso Lover.

WHO ARE YOUR ROLE MODELS OR MENTORS?

My mother and father laid a strong foundation for understanding what community means. They continue to set an example of being faithful to family, church, neighbors, and our city. My faith mentor is a woman named Jan Skaggs who has raised me up in Christ. She and my mother are dear friends and so I’d say I’m the luckiest girl ever to have a mama and spiritual mama in my life.

Photo by Taylor Prinsen Photography

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST FEAR OR CHALLENGE?

I’m not afraid of failing as a leader. It’s a given that I’ll continue to make plenty of mistakes. I’m more afraid of success. What’s the true cost of leading a successful, thriving movement? Can I do that? What does it mean for my family and, let’s be honest, my sanity!?! I’m learning a lot about margins and boundaries, which is hard but essential as I balance work and family life.

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT?

My greatest accomplishment is saying “yes” to God when he invited me on this community-buildingadventure.

That’s more faith than an accomplishment, but I do wonder what I would have missed if I had ignoredhis invitation. Publishing "The Turquoise Table" and hosting The Turquoise Table podcast areaccomplishments I never dreamed of achieving.

HOW ARE YOU BUILDING COMMUNITY RIGHT NOW?

I’m an Enneagram 7 and a Connector on the StrengthsFinder assessment — so whatever I’m doing, itgenerally involves bringing people together and connecting them in meaningful ways.

Practically speaking, I’m trying to practice the ministry of presence for my family and neighbors. Beingavailable to listen is a huge blessing of The Turquoise Table.

WHAT IS A FAVORITE QUOTE OR VERSE YOU LIVE BY?

"Take every opportunity to open your life and home to others."(Romans 12:13 The Voice)

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT CENTRAL TEXAS IN THE SPRING?

Helloooooo, perfect Turquoise Table season! I love the perfect weather, walking around Lady Bird Lake,sipping margaritas al fresco, and seeing everyone come alive outside.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE TEXAS-BASED NONPROFITS TO SUPPORT?

I’m an 8th generation Texan and have lived in Austin for over 30 years, so that’s like asking me whichone of my four kids is my favorite. My husband Tony and I have been supporters of so many local causesand nonprofits over the years.

Right now, my friends at ReWork Project are at the top of our long list. ReWork helps transition menand women out of homelessness. They have been building Turquoise Tables for us for three years —handmade, hand-painted, delivered with love. These strong layers of community are important to me.