
We can’t wait to hear your story.
In the meantime, here’s ours.
Vision & Mission
We envision a world where curiosity is rewarded, failure is normalized as a necessary step toward achievement, and heroes are hailed for the strength of their character.
Learning is essential to growth, innovation, and progress. Our mission is to put the joy and honor back in adult learning… and we believe the future depends on it.
Our Values
Curiosity
Positive change is the result of inquiry, openness, and exploration. We will pursue truth and understanding.
Courage
Every great story includes a road of trials, and every great hero knows fear. We may concede, but we won’t cower.
Creativity
The future is waiting for us to dream it, discover it, and create it. We will use whatever resources we have.
Community
We are inextricably connected to the people and places around us. We will be mindful of our impact.
Kristen Bashaw, Founder and Principal
Kristen founded Monomyth Learning in direct response to the growing need for meaningful, accessible, transformational adult learning opportunities. She is inspired by the courage and creativity of today’s teachers, trainers, subject matter experts, and influencers. Her mission is to support current and emerging leaders with the insight and tools they need to make the greatest impact possible.
With a background in corporate learning and development, Kristen’s approach to teaching and coaching is learner-centric and results-driven. She is a Certified Purpose Coach, yoga instructor, and seasoned public speaker/storyteller. A longtime student of social science and artistic expression, Kristen earned a Bachelor’s degree in Criminology and a Master of Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing. She dedicates her work to the brilliant teachers and leaders who illuminated her path and helped to forge her character.
When she isn’t geeking out on instructional, graphic, and experiential design, Kristen can be found stomping around in the mountains or forest… or binge watching the latest Netflix sensation.
Whitney Bowen Abrams, Coach, Speaker, and Creative Partner
Whitney is a teacher, coach, and luminary focused on helping others uncover their most authentic selves. In addition to being a partner of Monomyth Learning, Whitney is the founder of Vita Lumen: Life Illuminated. Whitney describes her work in both avenues as “a way to reveal the truth living inside of each of us so that we may illuminate the path back home to ourselves.”
Whitney has dedicated her life to discovering, studying, and teaching the practice of authentic living. As such, she brings with her a diverse set of self-inquiry tools, ranging from executive coaching to tarot. Whether focused on professional development or spiritual guidance, Whitney translates deep insights into practical advice that her clients can immediately rely on.
Whitney is a Certified Professional Coach and Energy Leadership Master Practitioner through the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching (iPEC), a top-rated coaching program accredited by the International Coach Federation. She lives in Washington, DC with her wife of 14 years and their two fur-baby cats, Phil and Macho.
Alaura Rice, Organizational Development Consultant
As a consultant and workshop facilitator, Alaura specializes in organizational development and adult learning. She pairs a Master of Science (MS) degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology with a strong background in health and wellness to help individuals, teams, and organizations remove obstacles and develop empowering, mindful leaders.
With deep roots in the yoga community, Alaura leverages mindfulness as as key component in her work. Whether leading a team building workshop or organizing a retreat, Alaura takes a holistic approach to uncover root issues and find sustainable, high-impact solutions.
Originally from Orange County, California, Alaura currently resides in Denver, Colorado. She enjoys being outdoors, “trying all the foods,” and doting on her ridiculously cute French bulldog, Zoey.
Amanda Escamilla, Higher Education Advisor
Amanda is a consultant and advisor to higher education instructors, learners, and administrators. With a focus on the customization and implementation of e-learning technology, she helps modern adult educators optimize learner outcomes.
Amanda also has roots in the non-profit and corporate talent development space. She is deeply connected to her mission to leave the world better than she found it. As a gifted instructor and connector, Amanda thrives on helping individuals, teams, and organizations reach their full potential.
Though originally from Palm Beach, Florida, Amanda now resides in New York City and is passionate about serving the various communities that have made her the person she is today. When she isn’t working to advance higher education, she can be found hiking or exploring local restaurants.