Author Description

"Berni is a force. She is a connector, a trusted mentor to many, a faithful Catholic, a genius marketer, a brilliant nonprofit thought leader, and a humble Orange County housewife and grandmother." -Foreword by Kira Potter From the vibrant blending of Cuban-Korean and Dominican French-Chinese heritage in Southern California to her influential work in Catholic philanthropy and leadership, Berni Neal's story is a testament to courage, faith, and authenticity. In this engaging interview-style biography from the Tepeyac Leadership Series, Berni reflects on pivotal moments: growing up as a bilingual Latina Asian in a close-knit immigrant family, forging a career in multicultural marketing, and discerning the call to focus her vocation around family and faith - with wit and deep gratitude. Berni's journey takes readers from her ambitious beginnings and professional achievements to her transformative roles as a mother, volunteer, and Catholic leader. She reveals the powerful intersections of career and vocation, sharing stories of travel, family milestones, spiritual challenges, and lessons in leadership, especially within faith communities. I'm grateful that, by God's grace, I have received the gift [of grace] and opened the box. I just want others who are holding the box to open it up! (Berni Neal) Perfect for Catholics and Christians seeking contemporary models of authentic witness - especially women balancing professional, familial, and spiritual callings - this book embodies Berni's conviction that success comes from living out and sharing one's unique God given gifts with confidence, humility and joy. Whether championing the role of laity in the Church, navigating the joys and challenges of motherhood and becoming a "minivan grandma," or serving as a bridge between cultures and communities with a focus on invitation over exclusion, Berni's story is one of service and significance. She reveals candid insights from