Episode 53: Blue Burros, Bold Moves, and Becoming: Sarah Givens on Art, Adventure, and Reinvention

What happens when a lifelong explorer, aspiring novelist, donkey artist, and creative late bloomer sits down to talk about travel, reinvention, and the courage to keep becoming? In this heartfelt and often hilarious episode of Stories from Everywhere, Jill L. Ferguson chats with writer, artist, and adventurer Sarah Givens about building a life fueled by curiosity rather than convention. From flying first class as a Delta wife to road-tripping Costa Rica, falling in love with Mexico City, creating a colorful “donkey lady” art identity in Baja, and starting over in Long Beach, Sarah shares how every move, challenge, and creative leap shaped her. She opens up about learning new skills later in life—from painting and woodburning to writing her first novel about friendship, aging, and dogs—while reflecting on why growth, art, and asking for what you want matter more than fame. This episode is a celebration of second acts, soulful travel, artistic courage, and the beauty of embracing change—even when it means moving countries, reinventing yourself, or becoming known as the woman who paints blue burros. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s too late to create, explore, or begin again, Sarah’s story is your reminder that life expands when you do.