Dana Claudat shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Dana , really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I’m currently getting into an art practice, something I’ve never done before, outside of the creative work I do professionally. It’s been meditative and exciting to learn new skills, practice in new mediums, and get better at communicating in a new way!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Dana Claudat. I’m a modern Feng Shui Master and 20 years ago I developed a Feng Shui Method, as a passion project. I had so much success for myself that I became passionate about sharing the work with others. I had no intention of doing this work professionally, but it was unavoidable as the work attracted an audience faster and more intently than I ever imagined. The Feng Shui I practice is unique because it’s not rule-based, strict, or formulaic. I believe that your optimal home is unique to you, your desires, values, and style. Everything is wildly creative, super-empowering… and it works!
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
When I was about 12 years old my mom got very sick. I knew her appendix burst and I told the doctors in the hospital but they wouldn’t listen to me because I was a kid who knew nothing. After two weeks and a major exploratory surgery her life was saved, and yes, it was a burst appendix. I learned to trust my intuition and never be afraid to keep speaking up when I knew my viewpoint mattered. I also realized I could be dismissed, and always found ways to advocate for myself regardless of what was happening.
I think this is what led me to rebel against tradition in my career– instinctually I knew it was right, it was easy to dismiss me, but it was a great decision in the end. And, it’s shaped my personal life in so many more ways,
Do you remember a time someone truly listened to you?
I had an academic enrichment teacher in grammar school who was always willing to hear me out and listen to all of my ideas. 20 years later, I did Julia Cameron’s book The Artist’s Way and felt compelled to send her a letter thanking her for seeing all of my potential at a young age. To my surprise, she mailed me a folder full of my essays and exercises that I wrote as a little kid. She said she felt compelled to hold onto them for some reason. That blew me away. I am so grateful for Mrs. Powers.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yep.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Absolutely. I am a huge believer in always having a passion project to pour into, and always showing up fully for everything, to the best of my ability. That’s excellence and success– and joy– for me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://fengshuidana.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetaoofdana/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thetaoofdana
Image Credits
Stephanie Day
