Hello, I’m Ellen.

I’m a lifelong entrepreneur who has worked as a death penalty attorney, a baker, a documentary filmmaker, an award-winning landscape designer, a nonprofit director and fundraiser who raised millions to bring an educational project and eco-sanctuary to my community.

Today? I’m a Career and Business Strategist for people who want to find energizing, meaningful work — and make a difference in our world. People like you.

I believe that having lots of passions is a wonderful thing — as long as you know how to focus and do the tough, gritty work that’s necessary to turn your big ideas into a reality, one tiny step at a time.

I help my clients land great jobs, launch cool businesses and do amazing things — not just dream (or talk) about them.

I offer several services to help you make your big ideas + career ambitions a reality — including editing to help you find the most powerful words for your résumé, cover letter, manifesto, pitch, presentation or book project, quick one-hour brain dates, and deep- dive business consulting. (You can learn all about how to work with me, here.)

I also run a blog — UNLOCKED — and an advice column — Ask Ellen — where I share my best advice on how to create the career that you want.

You can reach out to me anytime at elfondiler@gmail.com.

Wherever you are? Do great work, today.

Here are a few more facts + stories about me:

• Puttering around in my garden is my idea of heaven. Give me a rake, a few seeds and a nice patch of dirt, and I’ll be happily occupied for hours.

• I love working from bed, on my laptop, while the rain pours down outside.

• I have two beautiful sons, both in their 20s, both doing amazing work in the world. (I’m a very proud mama.)

• I love thoughtful gifts — both giving and receiving. If you really want to knock my socks off, send me a stack of DVDs (I’m a total movie addict. Oscars night is my Christmas morning.)

• I once convinced the hottest band in the country to come and play at my senior prom. How? I picked up the phone and called. And I wouldn’t take “No” for an answer.

• Another time, I persuaded the most sought-after chef in the country to come and speak at my fundraising event. How? I picked up the phone and called. And then emailed. And then emailed again. And then sent a handwritten card. And a gift. And (once again!) I wouldn’t take “No” for an answer. (Unlocking impossible doors is one of my superpowers.)

• I have run four successful businesses. My first business? A bakery. I’d never baked more than a batch of cookies before, but I simply felt called to do it. (People are still talking about my apple pie that won 3 blue ribbons at the County Fair).

• I was an “unofficial” career mentor for hundreds of people before I decided to make it “official.” I never, ever get tired of helping people create amazing careers.

If you’re hunting for a meaningful job — or aching to start your own business — check out how we can work together. I can’t wait to support you!