Austin-based blogger and tarot card reader embarks on a quest for a purposeful life in the gig economy

Addie Broyles, a seasoned food writer at the Austin American-Statesman, found herself at a crossroads when the pandemic hit. With 15 years of experience in print journalism, she had to adapt to the changing landscape brought on by COVID-19. Instead of sticking to her traditional job, Broyles saw the pandemic as an opportunity to explore new avenues of income generation.

During the pandemic, Broyles launched her Substack newsletter, The Feminist Kitchen, where she writes about a variety of topics ranging from travel and parenting to history and ancestry. This platform allowed her to continue sharing her passion for storytelling in a different format. In addition to her newsletter, Broyles also ventured into other side gigs such as dog walking, dog boarding, and building her tarot practice. She even hosts tarot parties and experiences through Airbnb, showcasing her diverse skill set and adaptability in the gig economy.

More recently, Broyles has been assisting clients in organizing their lives, including helping individuals navigate through the process of Swedish death cleaning, a method of decluttering and organizing possessions after a loved one passes away. This shift towards offering organizational services reflects Broyles’ willingness to embrace new challenges and provide support to her community in various ways.

Broyles’ decision to step away from a traditional 9-5 job was not solely influenced by the pandemic but also by personal losses and a deeper reflection on the meaning of life. The passing of her father, grandmother, and beloved dog prompted her to explore the concept of ancestral healing and the quest for understanding one’s place in the world. This introspection led Broyles to transition from being a young person to embracing the role of an elder, with a focus on making others feel less alone in their journey.

Reflecting on her journey, Broyles encourages others to pay attention to the signs and signals that resonate deep within them, guiding them towards unknown possibilities. She emphasizes the importance of taking leaps of faith, even in the face of pain and conflict, as it can lead to beautiful outcomes. By following one’s intuition and embracing change, Broyles believes that individuals can discover new paths and experiences that enrich their lives.

In conclusion, Addie Broyles’ story serves as a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and self-discovery in navigating life’s challenges and transitions. Her willingness to explore diverse opportunities in the gig economy and offer support to others reflects a deep sense of purpose and connection to her community. As she continues to evolve and grow, Broyles inspires others to embrace change, listen to their inner voice, and take bold steps towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life.