Hazel Elif Guler, Ph.D. | Educator, Writer, Consultant

When Words Must Do More Than Speak

4/13/2025

We live in a world that feels increasingly saturated with content, yet hungry for connection. Ideas come fast; change comes slow. Platforms multiply, while our attention divides. In this climate, I find myself turning away from excess and toward precision.

What does it mean to create, teach, or consult responsibly today? What does real impact look like, beyond visibility?

What does it mean to produce work that doesn't just speak to people, but moves with them? What responsibilities come with knowing how to write powerfully in a world that urgently needs care, clarity, and coordinated action?

These are the questions guiding my current trajectory–whether in curriculum design, storytelling, or consulting. What connects all these modes is a commitment to communication as a tool not only for reflection, but for renewal.

"Rhetoric is rooted in an essential function of language itself, a function that is wholly realistic and continually born anew: the use of language as a symbolic means of inducing cooperation in beings that by nature respond to symbols." --Kenneth Burke (1969)

In A Rhetoric of Motives, p. 43, University of California Press.

With over fifteen years of experience in rhetoric, writing, and strategic communication–across both academic and applied spheres–I find myself entering a new phase of meaningful expansion.

As a professor of writing and communication, I’ve dedicated my career to helping others communicate with clarity, ethics, and purpose. Whether teaching first-year writing, advanced rhetoric, or leading professional development workshops, my focus has always been on cultivating transferable skills and global literacy--principles that extend beyond the classroom.

Beyond academia, I’ve worked as a consultant, helping individuals and institutions translate strategy into language that resonates and inspires change. Because for me, communication has never been just about words--it’s about their power to shift minds, behaviors, and even systems.

This belief also drives my creative work. As a screenwriter and multiplatform storyteller, I explore the human condition and our interdependence with one another and the environment. The goal isn’t spectacle--it’s meaning. Emotion. Recognition. And, when possible, action.

Lately, I’ve been thinking even more deeply about that final piece: action.

Writing is more than a skill–it is a form of agency. Through language, we engage systems, propose futures, and move ideas into the world with real consequence.

That belief has shaped everything I do. I’ve designed writing curricula that empower students to see language as a civic tool. I’ve helped organizations align their messages with their missions–because what we say, and how we say it, shapes what others believe and do.

Whether structuring a multiplatform narrative or developing a professional workshop, I remain guided by a central aim: to move people--not only emotionally, but toward reflection, insight, and engagement.

My next steps will deepen that commitment–toward work that listens, acts, and builds. I’ll continue to teach. To consult. To write. To shape and be shaped by the questions that matter.

Because in a time like this, when words are everywhere, I choose to craft those that carry weight–
words that don’t just speak, but do.

For example, I recently designed a writing course centered on sustainable futures and public health–giving students the tools to research, imagine, and articulate actionable responses to global challenges. In my creative work, I’m exploring storylines that don’t just entertain but challenge viewers to reconsider what justice, community, and care might look like in uncertain times.

These are just a few steps toward a direction I care deeply about:

Communication as contribution. Writing as participation. Language in service of the world we want to live in.

"...because there has been implanted in us the power to persuade each other and to make clear to each other whatever we desire, not only have we escaped the life of wild beasts, but we have come together and founded cities and made laws and invented arts; and, generally speaking, there is no institution devised by man which the power of speech has not helped us to establish." --Isocrates (1735). Nicocles [To his subjects the Cyprians, concerning their Duty].

In J. Brown (Trans.), The duty of a king and his people (pp. 26–43).

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What You Can Do in Just One Minute: A Writer’s Favorite Fitness Hack

4/11/2025

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Sometimes, all I need is five minutes. But between writing deadlines and life chaos, even that feels like a luxury. While searching for quick ways to recharge, I stumbled upon this uplifting infographic that shows you what you can do with just one, two, three, four, or five minutes.

The beauty of it lies in its progressive approach – it doesn't overwhelm you with a full routine. Instead, it simply asks: how many minutes do you have right now? One? Great – here’s what you can do. Two? Perfect – add this. That kind of gentle, adaptable structure makes it incredibly easy to say yes to movement, no matter how packed your day is.

As a professional writer, I also have to say – I have a soft spot for a well-crafted infographic. Visual storytelling is one of our languages, after all. When it's done right, like this one is, it conveys not just information, but encouragement.

Originally published by the editors of Women’s Health, this smart and kind little tool has been quietly waiting to be rediscovered since 2015. I’m sharing it here not just as a helpful tip, but as a reminder that taking even one minute for your body is better than none – and sometimes, it’s all it takes to reset your mind too.

Check out the original article here: ‘Workouts You Can Do in 5 Minutes or Less’
(Infographic by Women’s Health, used here for educational and inspirational purposes. Full credit to the original creators.)

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Sooo... About the Market Crash. Here’s What I Snatched from an Economist Friend

4/9/2025

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Major U.S. Market Crashes and Recovery Times

Hey friends,

If your group chats, social media feeds, and pillow thoughts have all been haunted by the state of the market lately… same. And while I usually post about whatever strikes my fancy, today it’s this: the crash, the chaos, and the oddly satisfying patterns history reveals.

A friend of mine–let’s call them “an economist with strong charts and stronger opinions”--shared this gem with me, and I had to post it.

Let’s break it down. The graphic in this post illustrates major U.S. market crashes: how much the market dropped during each, and how long it took to bounce back.

Quick Facts:

1929 (Great Depression): A brutal -89% drop. Took about 25 years to recover. Yikes.
1987 (Black Monday): -22%, recovered in just 2 years.
2000 (Dotcom Bubble): -49% with a 7-year road back.
2008 (Global Financial Crisis): -57%, recovered in about 5 years.
2020 (COVID Crash): -34% but snapped back in just 6 months. Wild.

What About 2020–2025?

Before 2025 brought us Tariff Turmoil, we’d already seen some drama. The post-pandemic bull run (late 2020 through 2021) gave investors hope, but between inflation, Fed rate hikes, and global jitters, the market wobbled in 2022 and 2023. The S&P 500 saw a 20–25% dip from its 2021 highs. But by mid-2024, the market had mostly recovered--until early 2025, when the current trade tensions triggered another drop.

So if you're counting, that’s two dips in five years--but also two rebounds. Not bad, historically speaking.

And now, 2025 is giving strong “new entry unlocked” vibes, thanks to sweeping tariffs and escalating trade tensions. The S&P dropped fast this quarter, and depending on how the U.S.--China–EU standoff evolves, we might be in for a V-shaped recovery (quick), a U (slow), or–hopefully not–an L (long and flat).

So what’s the point of this post?

To say: if you’re feeling uneasy, you’re not alone. But also–history shows markets do recover. Sometimes it takes time, but crisis often breeds reinvention (and yes, opportunity).

Investor tip I overheard (and by “overheard” I mean I grilled my friend):

Keep some strategic cash handy.
Don't panic about your investment strategy.
Watch sectors like U.S. manufacturing, AI, defense, and green energy.

And now I’m curious–what’s your gut telling you about this market mess?
Leave a comment, DM me, or just scream into the void. I’ll be here, sipping tea and pretending I understand bond yields.

P.S. U.S. stock markets have just shown signs of improvement, as we speak, following news that President Trump has decided to delay tariffs for 90 days, with the exception of a 125% tariff on China. This shift in policy may provide some short-term relief, but the long-term effects on the market and global trade dynamics remain to be seen.

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“I’ve Never Seen It This Bad”: Why So Many People Are Saying This, and What It Means for the Rest of Us

4/4/2025

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Image by Bernd Hildebrandt

Over the past couple of years, I’ve noticed a striking pattern in the way certain people talk about the present moment–people with decades of life experience, who have witnessed major historical shifts firsthand. My father is one of them. They all said some version of this:

“I’ve lived through some tough times–but I’ve never seen things get this bad.”

The first time I heard it, it made me pause. The second time, it made me wonder. And as I continued hearing the same phrase from different people, in different places, I started to ask myself a deeper question: Did my time on earth have to coincide with the worst chapter in modern history? Am I really that unlucky?

It’s a heavy thought. Especially when things are already hard–financially, socially, emotionally–and you’re watching major systems fray or falter.

Right now, for example, the U.S. stock market (and perhaps some others around the world) is struggling, and people retiring in this climate are understandably anxious. Some are seeing the savings they’ve worked for all their lives diminish at the very moment they need them most. It’s unfortunate, and for many, deeply unfair.

And yet, even as these realities bite, some voices offer consolation: “Markets always recover.” Others take it further: “If they collapse to the point where the world collapses, we’ll all be in it together anyway.” In other words, if the system fails completely, personal investments are the least of our problems.

This bleak kind of reassurance brings to mind a classic quote often attributed to John Maynard Keynes, summarizing Adam Smith’s pragmatism:

“In the long run, we’re all dead.”

At first glance, it sounds cold. But it’s also a sober reminder of our limited place in the sweep of history. The “long run” may resolve itself with or without us. And that may be exactly what’s weighing on the voices expressing this concern.

So Why Are People Saying, “This Is the Worst”?

I think there are several reasons why this sentiment is so common today. Here are my thoughts, weaving in my reflections, observations, and some research on the broader emotional and philosophical context.

It’s not necessarily that these times objectively are the worst. It may be that something else–something deeper–is stirring beneath the surface:

1. A Loss of Control

As people accumulate life experience, they often rely on the stability of the systems they grew up with–economic patterns, social norms, institutions that once felt trustworthy. When those structures begin to shift or break down, it doesn’t just feel like change–it feels like chaos. Familiar signposts are missing. And for those who once navigated confidently, it’s easy to feel disoriented and powerless.

2. The Overload of Information

In previous decades, bad news came through newspapers, occasional broadcasts, or word of mouth. Now we absorb global suffering in real time–war footage, climate disasters, political breakdowns, one tragedy after another. The sheer volume and speed of it all make the world seem more unstable than ever before. But maybe it’s not the world that’s more unstable–maybe it’s just more visible.

3. Romanticizing the Past

It’s a common psychological phenomenon: as people look back on earlier chapters of their lives, they tend to idealize their youth. The past appears simpler, more hopeful, more coherent. This isn’t delusion–it’s a kind of memory self-preservation. So even if the present isn’t objectively worse than the past, it can feel that way when viewed through a nostalgic lens.

4. A Shrinking Window for the Future

For those who have lived through many chapters of history, a changing world isn’t just something to observe–it’s something they may not have time to see resolve. It’s not just “the world is in trouble.” It’s “I may not live to see things get better.” That realization carries a special kind of grief. It’s not only a fear of decline; it’s a fear of missing redemption.

So… Is This the Worst Time?

Maybe. Maybe not. Maybe it’s just our time–fraught, yes, but also real, alive, and full of choices (as much as possible within the purview of what’s available to us). Here, it's important to be brutally honest with ourselves about what those choices truly are.

The world is always breaking in some places and healing in others. Every generation feels at some point that they’re living through unprecedented hardship–and perhaps they are. But that doesn’t mean all is lost. It just means we’re living through history as it unfolds, not as it will one day be remembered.

And if we can zoom out, we might even see what these voices are really saying. Not just that things are bad–but that they’re unsure, afraid, and perhaps hoping we’ll carry something forward that they no longer can.

Maybe our role isn’t to deny how hard things are. Maybe it’s to hold that difficulty honestly, and still try to move with care, courage, and curiosity.

After all, in the long run, we will all be dead. But in the meantime, there’s still a world here–fragile, imperfect, and worth tending to. (What follows is a little graphic to help with that.)

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What Makes a Good Leader?

4/2/2025

Image by OpenClipart-Vectors

Leadership has been a constant thread in my life since elementary school – from student councils and academic committees to nonprofit roles and organizational strategy. I’ve also had the opportunity to work under different kinds of leaders, observing what works and what doesn’t. These experiences taught me a few fundamental truths about leadership.

First and foremost, I’ve learned that true leadership isn’t about authority or being the loudest voice in the room – it’s about service to people, listening, guiding, and empowering them to reach their full potential. In moments of challenge and uncertainty, a leader’s qualities determine not only policies and decisions but also the morale of those they lead.

One of the most impactful leaders I worked with demonstrated this firsthand. They weren’t the loudest voice in the room, nor did they dominate every conversation. Before speaking, they listened – deeply and intentionally. When they did speak, they made you feel heard. They led with humility, taking ownership when things went wrong rather than deflecting blame. Under their guidance, I felt a profound sense of safety – not complacency, but the kind of trust that empowers you to do your best work. Their leadership created an environment of confidence where people felt motivated to rise to challenges. That’s what good leadership does: it fosters collaboration, instills confidence, and brings out the best in people.

Now, compare that to a leader who sows division, refuses to admit mistakes, or bends rules to serve their own interests. How does that make people feel? Anxious? Angry? Exhausted? For those of us who have experienced both types of leadership in workplaces, communities, or even families: the difference is night and day.

Like any relationship built on trust, we have expectations of our leaders. Some are practical, some emotional, but all are deeply human. When we elect a president, for example, aren’t we essentially choosing someone to guide, protect, and nurture our nation – a parental figure to all citizens? We don’t just vote for policies or party lines; we vote for someone we believe can lead with wisdom, integrity, and care.

We want a leader who reassures us in times of crisis, speaks with honesty, and understands the struggles of everyday life. We want someone who unites rather than divides, who takes responsibility rather than deflecting blame, and who sees leadership as a duty rather than a privilege.

So what exactly makes a good leader?

Image by Mohamed Hassan

Based on my scholarly research, observations, and public feedback, these are the key characteristics:

Integrity and accountability: Being honest even when it’s difficult, and taking responsibility for actions and decisions.
Unifying vision: Bridging differences and bringing people together toward shared goals.
Transparency and respect: Communicating openly and ensuring actions match words.
Future-focused thinking: Balancing immediate needs with long-term sustainability and growth.
Empathy and resilience: Leading with compassion while inspiring confidence during challenging times.

Leadership is the transformative force that turns groups into teams, communities, and movements. It’s not a license to wield authority arbitrarily. At its core, leadership means service – whether in public office, workplaces, homes, or communities. It’s about responsibility and uplifting others. While no leader is perfect, the right kind of leadership leaves a lasting, positive impact.

The question remains: What kind of leaders will we choose to be?

What is Rhetoric?

3/26/2025

Definitions of Rhetoric - Poster by Hazel E. Guler

My educational and consulting work revolves around expertise in rhetoric–a concept dating back to Aristotle’s foundational texts on the subject. Rhetoric is the art of effective or persuasive speaking and writing, involving the strategic use of language to communicate, influence, and persuade audiences. At its core, rhetorical study examines how language shapes thought, emotions, and decisions.

Key Aspects of Rhetoric:

Persuasion – The primary goal is to convince an audience through logical, emotional, or ethical appeals.
Audience Awareness – Effective rhetoric considers the values, beliefs, and expectations of the listeners or readers.
Context – The situation (time, place, cultural setting) affects how a message is received.
Style & Delivery – How something is said (word choice, tone, structure) matters as much as what is said.

Aristotle’s Three Modes of Persuasion:

Ethos (Credibility) – Appeals to the speaker’s authority or character.
Example: A doctor endorsing a medical treatment.
Pathos (Emotion) – Appeals to the audience’s feelings.
Example: A charity ad showing suffering children to evoke sympathy.
Logos (Logic) – Appeals to reason with facts, statistics, or structured arguments.
Example: A scientist presenting data to support climate change claims.

Rhetoric in Modern Use:

Politics: Speeches, debates, and campaigns use rhetoric to sway voters.
Advertising: Brands craft messages to persuade consumers.
Social Media: Influencers and activists use rhetoric to shape opinions.
Law & Education: Lawyers argue cases; teachers help students construct strong essays.

Is Rhetoric Good or Bad?

Rhetoric itself is neutral–it depends on how it’s used. It can inform and inspire (e.g., Martin Luther King Jr.’s "I Have a Dream") or manipulate (e.g., propaganda).

🎯 Rhetoric and Strategic Communication are deeply connected:

Rhetoric is the foundation of persuasive communication–understanding audience, crafting messages, choosing appropriate mediums–all central to strategic communication.

Strategic communication applies those rhetorical principles in real-world contexts like organizational messaging, branding, crisis response, cross-cultural campaigns, and more.

For example, my expertise in rhetoric empowers me to help individuals or organizations improve communication with specific goals in mind (internal, external, persuasive, or relational), which means transforming ideas into impact through strategic communication.

The Academix Mindset

3/20/2025

Many assume an academic career is a rigid, linear path confined to research papers and university halls. But universities are more than just places for theory–they’re spaces for preparing individuals for real-world challenges. Besides, in today’s world, few people can afford a strictly linear career path. Many professionals–by choice or circumstance–find themselves moving between roles, industries, or even entire professions.

Fortunately, knowledge is dynamic–and so is its application.

When I left my tenured professor position after nine years at a public university–following a decade at another major public university–I wasn’t stepping away from academia but expanding my reach. As an educator at heart, I have never believed that universities should exist in isolation from real-world challenges. Knowledge isn’t meant to sit in books, journals, or classrooms–it’s meant to be lived, applied, and adapted to solve problems.

For years, I had already moved fluidly between academia, industry, and creative storytelling, recognizing them as interconnected. Being a rhetoric and communication specialist made it particularly conducive for me to operate in both academia and the professional world.

Throughout my career, I have:

✅ Designed and led academic programs that prepare students for real-world careers–like a university program that increased student employability through hands-on communication training.
✅ Consulted with organizations to develop communication strategies rooted in research, helping them connect with their audiences more effectively.
✅ Applied rhetorical expertise to screenwriting, brand storytelling, and media projects, creating narratives that resonate across industries.
✅ Published scholarly work while directly implementing insights in professional and creative spaces, ensuring that theory meets practice.

Whether I’m teaching in a classroom, conducting research, strategizing in a boardroom, or envisioning stories for a film set, my mission remains constant: to shape ideas, refine messages, and transform communication into tangible impact.

If some see a divide between academia and the professional world, I stand at the intersection of both. I may be more than just an academic or a professional. I’m an Academix–a blend of "academia" and "mix," representing the fusion of knowledge and practical application. (I coined it! :))

🎓 What is an Academix?

An Academix is a professional who integrates academic expertise with real-world impact–bridging research, education, consulting, and creative practices. Academix don’t just theorize; they apply knowledge. They don’t just teach; they create solutions.

I’m an Academix. To me, being an Academix means actively shaping and applying knowledge in diverse settings. It means not having to choose between academia and industry–but thriving in both whenever one has meaningful value to offer.

Hence, rather than choosing a single professional identity, I embrace multiple roles that complement and reinforce one another:

🔹Communication Strategist – Crafting effective messaging, branding, and audience engagement strategies to amplify impact.
🔹Educator & Mentor – Teaching rhetoric, writing, and communication while guiding students and professionals in education, career, and life design.
🔹Leader & Project Manager – Directing academic and creative initiatives, from curriculum design to media projects.
🔹Researcher & Analyst – Investigating communication strategies and rhetorical impact across time and cultures to address real-world challenges.
🔹Writer & Storyteller – Developing narratives across academia, media, and corporate settings (screenwriting, branding, multimodal storytelling).

Why This Matters

We live in a world where knowledge is increasingly interdisciplinary. The most pressing challenges–global crises, technological shifts, and communication breakdowns–require professionals who can think critically, adapt, and integrate expertise across fields. That’s what being an Academix is about.

Think of an Academix as a translator–someone who takes complex ideas and turns them into actionable solutions.

If you’ve ever felt like your work doesn’t fit into a single box–if you’ve moved between education, industry, and creative fields–then you might be an Academix, too.

Let’s Connect

I’m sharing this here for those curious about my professional identity and approach. If you're interested in collaborating on education, communication strategy, or storytelling projects, let’s connect and explore how we can create impact together.

Knowledge isn’t meant to stay on paper–it’s meant to shape the world. And that’s what being an Academix is all about.

#Academix #CommunicationStrategy #KnowledgeInAction #Rhetoric #Writing #InterdisciplinaryWork #Leadership #Storytelling #CareerDevelopment

Insights from a Workshop: Making Meaningful Connections in the Digital Age

3/11/2025

Back in the day, promoting ideas, products, and services was pretty straightforward--billboards, radio, TV ads. The reach was limited, but at least the landscape was clear. Now, in theory, we have a wider reach, but in practice? We’re often lost in a sea of messages, competing with the power of paid visibility. The game is more complex--both in crafting effective communication and in managing the sheer cost of staying visible.

In the digital writing workshops I facilitate with university students and industry professionals, these concerns come up again and again. How do we make meaningful connections in this environment?

Here, I’d like to share a few insights from our discussions on navigating the social media maze:

1️⃣ Be Consistent. Not just in how often you post, but in what you say and how you say it. Your messaging should align with both your long-term goals and what you truly believe in. If your words and actions don’t match, people notice.

2️⃣ Be Authentic. It’s tempting to chase trends for visibility, but authenticity is what builds trust and lasting connections. People connect with real voices, not just polished branding.

3️⃣ Look Around. Focus on genuine relationships with a specific audience rather than trying to please everyone. Numbers don’t always equate to value--money may follow attention, but fulfillment comes from meaningful connections. Plenty of wealthy people have proven that material success alone doesn’t guarantee happiness.

4️⃣ Be Ethical & Responsible. In the long run, integrity wins. Trust is hard to gain and easy to lose. Flexibility and calculated risks are necessary, but some boundaries should never be crossed. Once credibility is gone, even financial success can start slipping away.

The digital world keeps evolving, but at its core, human connection still matters most.

Happy International Women's Day!

3/8/2025

Hazel E. Guler at the USPTO Museum, Alexandria, Virginia

Happy International Women's Day! 💖

This March 8th, and every day, I celebrate the trailblazing women who have shaped our world through their ideas, resilience, and leadership. We thrive when we uplift and inspire each other. May we continue to break barriers, support one another, and innovate fearlessly!

📸 During a client meeting to discuss an innovative project, I took a moment to explore USPTO museum’s interactive section. There, a fun test revealed my *inventor superpower* as Inspiring--a result I was honored to share with Frances Liegler, whose work on biosensors has helped detect toxins and pathogens in food, water, and air.

#InternationalWomensDay #Innovation #STEAM #InspiringChange

A moment in DC

3/6/2025

Hazel E. Guler at the United States Supreme Court Building in Washington, D.C.

The nation’s capital is always a whirlwind--hectic yet undeniably inspiring. Amid the movement, history, and conversations that shape our world, it’s a reminder that words matter. Communication matters. And the pursuit of justice and understanding is always worth it.

A recent trip brought me here, reflecting on the power of rhetoric and the resilience of those who keep fighting the good fight. ✍️⚖️❤️💙🕊

#EqualJusticeUnderLaw #NeverGiveUp #TheGoodFight #RhetoricForever

Be My Valentine: Spinach & Mozzarella Crepes with Avocado Yogurt Sauce

2/14/2025

Crepes are one of my favorite food things--they're so versatile, light, and delicious. If you’re looking for a delicious, high-protein, low-gluten meal that feels indulgent but keeps things light, these Spinach & Mozzarella Crepes are perfect! These savory crepes are soft yet sturdy, filled with a garlicky spinach and mozzarella mix, and paired with a creamy avocado yogurt sauce. I served them with a refreshing sweet watermelon tea, which balanced out the savory flavors perfectly. This meal is great for breakfast, lunch, or even a light dinner.

Recipe

Ingredients

For the Crepes (per person)

2 large eggs
¼ cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
2-3 tbsp flour (adjust for desired consistency)
A pinch of salt
Cooking spray (butter-flavored preferred)

For the Spinach Filling

½ medium onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
Several cups of raw baby spinach (small leaves)
1 tsp extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
A pinch of vegetable-flavored salt

For the Avocado Yogurt Sauce

½ ripe avocado
¼ cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
1 tsp lemon juice
Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

Make the Crepes
- In a bowl, beat the eggs. Whisk in the almond milk, flour, and salt until smooth.
- Heat a stainless steel pan over medium heat and lightly coat with cooking spray.
- Pour in just enough batter to coat the pan in a thin layer. Cook for a few minutes until the edges lift slightly, then flip and cook for another minute or two. Set aside.
Prepare the Filling
- Heat the olive oil in a stainless steel pot over medium-high heat.
- Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, then add the minced garlic.
- Stir in the spinach and season with vegetable-flavored salt. Sauté until wilted.
Make the Sauce
- Mash the avocado and mix with yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Assemble the Crepes
- Place a spoonful of spinach filling onto each crepe, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella, and fold or roll.
- Drizzle or serve with the avocado yogurt sauce on the side.

I love how crepes can be customized in so many ways, and this combination is one of my favorites. Let me know if you try it! 😊

#crepes #highprotein #lowgluten #lowfat

Echo in the Concrete

1/16/2025

Welcome to “Bite-Size Pilots”

My cinematic ramblings in miniature: short, mood-heavy scenes or episode seeds, open to growth, rewrites, or sudden bursts of inspiration. Think of them as the “cold opens” of stories that haven’t been fully told yet.

Today’s feature? A woman wakes in the skeleton of a city, a name echoing in her mind–and nothing else.

Image by Anemone123 from Pixabay

Title: Echo in the Concrete
Genre: Mystery / Thriller / Dystopian Drama
Written by: Hazel E. Guler

FADE IN:

EXT. CONSTRUCTION SITE - EVENING

A cold wind rustles through an unfinished building. The skeletal remains of concrete columns and steel rods reach towards the sky like fractured bones.

A YOUNG WOMAN (mid-20s, disoriented, in a trench coat) stirs on the rough floor. Her forehead bears a fresh wound, blood trickling down the side of her face. She blinks, trying to make sense of her surroundings.

A VOICE (O.S.) (slightly muffled, distant) ...Ayla! Ayla!

She winces, the name sparking something–but what? Her name? Someone she knows? Fear flickers across her face as FOOTSTEPS crunch against the gravel floor nearby.

She gasps and scrambles backward, tucking herself behind a thick column. A MAN (30s, rugged, dressed in dark clothing) prowls nearby. His gaze sweeps the area. He’s searching for someone–her?

She presses herself against the cold concrete, heart pounding. The man’s boots pause mere feet away. She clenches her jaw, holds her breath. A tense beat. Then–

The man moves on.

Relief floods her, but she stays hidden until the last echo of his steps fades. Only then does she venture out, moving cautiously, scanning the darkness for threats.

EXT. STREETS - EVENING

She shuffles through the city, weak and parched. Her stomach growls. Every neon sign, every passing car feels like another world–one she should recognize but doesn’t.

EXT. PUBLIC RESTROOM - NIGHT

She ducks into a dimly lit, half-constructed restroom. A broken faucet dribbles water. She cups her hands, drinking desperately. Finding an old plastic bottle nearby, she fills it and tucks it into her coat.

EXT. STREETS - DAWN

Exhaustion weighs her down, but survival propels her forward. She scans for a place to rest. Her trench coat isn’t enough to shield her from the biting wind.

She spots an alley behind a closed bakery. Stacked crates, an old blanket–shelter, for now. Curling up, she finally lets her eyelids drop.

FADE TO BLACK.

INT. ABANDONED BUILDING - NIGHT

A loud THUD jerks her awake. Shadows move beyond the alley. The same men? Or new dangers?

She moves, silent and swift, deeper into the city’s underbelly, unaware that the answers–and the danger–are closer than she thinks.

FADE OUT.

The Mazigator

12/16/2024

"To escape the maze, move forward until you meet a wall. Then follow it to the right. When the wall ends, move forward again. Repeat this, and eventually, the maze will let you go--unless it was built to keep you." ~H.G., The Mazigator

As a multifaceted writer, one of my passions lies in drafting, shaping, and refining film/TV scripts. Below is a draft I've recently put together (with space for further development into a feature-length script):

Image by Matthias Wewering

Title: The Mazigator
GENRE: Psychological Thriller
Written by: Hazel E. Guler

Scene 1: THE WARDEN’S HOUSE (INT. – NIGHT)

The camera pans over a dimly lit, antiquated room. Shadows from a flickering chandelier dance across walls lined with dusty books. A WOMAN (early 30s, intelligent but weary) sits at a grand, oak table, her eyes darting toward a looming door at the far end. Footsteps echo in the corridor outside.

WOMAN
(to herself, whispering)
Stay calm. Act natural.

The door creaks open, revealing THE WARDEN--an imposing, meticulously dressed man with a cold smile. He places a file on the table.

WARDEN
You’ve been… difficult to trace. You have something that belongs to us.

WOMAN
I don’t know what you’re talking about.

He leans in close, his voice low.

WARDEN
You’ll stay until you remember.

Scene 2: THE FORBIDDEN CORRIDOR (INT. – LATER THAT NIGHT)
The Woman sneaks down a long, dim hallway. Her breathing is shallow, her steps silent. A glowing red SURVEILLANCE CAMERA swivels toward her. She ducks into an alcove. The hum of machinery grows louder.

From her hiding spot, she spots a group of people in dark uniforms dragging a YOUNG MAN through a hidden door. The door shuts, the sound of a heavy lock echoing in the silence.

WOMAN
(whispering to herself)
What are they hiding?

She approaches the door and presses her ear against it. Muffled voices speak in an unknown language. The Woman’s hand hovers over a keypad, trying combinations nervously. Suddenly, the keypad lights up green.

Scene 3: THE OPERATING ROOM (INT. – NIGHT)
The hidden door leads to a sterile, white room filled with strange medical equipment. In the center lies the Young Man, unconscious, hooked to wires. Monitors flash indecipherable data.

The Woman inches closer, her gaze fixed on the strange instruments. She notices a SYMBOL etched into the wall--a shape resembling an all-seeing eye.

WOMAN
What is this place?

Before she can react, the door slams shut behind her. Alarms blare. Footsteps approach from the hallway.

Scene 4: ESCAPE THROUGH THE WOODS (EXT. – NIGHT)
The Woman bursts out of a side door into dense, moonlit woods. Her breath is ragged, her feet stumbling over roots and fallen branches. Behind her, FLASHLIGHTS cut through the darkness. Voices shout orders.

GUARD (O.S.)
She’s heading for the perimeter!

The Woman spots an opening in the fence up ahead. She sprints, narrowly avoiding a tranquilizer dart that embeds itself in a nearby tree. Reaching the fence, she squeezes through, her clothes tearing on the jagged metal.

Image by Viktorija Šaulytė

Scene 5: THE SAFEHOUSE (INT. – NIGHT)
The Woman finds refuge in a decrepit cabin deep in the woods. She collapses onto the floor, her face streaked with dirt and tears. She pulls out a small, mysterious DEVICE she grabbed from the operating room.

The device flickers to life, projecting an image of interconnected symbols. Among them, the all-seeing eye appears again, glowing ominously.

Image by Stain Marylight

WOMAN
(whispering)
This isn’t over.

Scene 6: FINAL REVELATION (INT. – UNKNOWN LOCATION)
The screen goes dark, then flickers to life. The Woman sits in a brightly lit interrogation room. Across from her sits a FEMALE INTERROGATOR, her face obscured by shadows.

INTERROGATOR
Do you understand now why they were after you?
The Woman clutches the device, her knuckles white.

WOMAN
It wasn’t just me. It’s everyone.

INTERROGATOR
Then you know what you must do.
The Woman nods, her expression hardening. The screen cuts to black.

ENDING: THE LABYRINTH CONTINUES
The final shot shows the Woman standing at the edge of the woods, the device glowing faintly in her hand. A low, mechanical hum builds in the distance as she disappears into the shadows.

FADE OUT.

Image by Jos Poelmans

Delicious and Nutritious: Olive Oil-Braised Celery Root Recipe

11/14/2024

Celery root dish, sprinkled with paprika. Image by HE Guler.

Celery root (also known as celeriac) is a highly nutritious and flavorful vegetable that is often overlooked. This Mediterranean dish, Olive Oil-Braised Celery Root, is a light yet satisfying meal packed with vitamins and minerals. Not only is it delicious, but it also offers numerous health benefits, making it an excellent choice for a balanced diet.

Health Benefits of Celery Root

Celery root is rich in fiber, which supports digestion and gut health. It is also a great source of vitamins C and K, essential for a strong immune system and bone health. Additionally, it contains antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and promote heart health. When cooked with olive oil and fresh citrus juice, this dish becomes an excellent source of healthy fats and refreshing flavors.

Ingredients:

2 celery roots (celeriac)
1 carrot
1 potato (optional)
1 onion
1 garlic clove (optional)
Juice of 1 orange (optional, adds a hint of sweetness)
Juice of half a lemon
4 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon flour (optional)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon turmeric (optional)
1 teaspoon black pepper (optional, but be sure to use if use turmeric)
1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
1.5 cups water

Instructions:

Peel and cube the celery root, then place it in a bowl of lemon water to prevent browning.
Peel and dice the carrot and potato.
Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
In a large pot, heat the olive oil and sauté the onions until they become translucent.
Add the carrots and cook for 2-3 minutes, then add the potatoes and celery root.
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well. (Optional. I didn’t actually use any flour in my version. Check Step #9 for what I do instead, for more protein / less gluten.)
Pour in the orange and lemon juice, followed by salt, sugar, and water. (+ turmeric and black pepper, if using)
Cover and simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Mix an egg yolk with 2 tbsp of yogurt and the juice of a medium-sized lemon and stir that into the cooked vegetables while on low heat. Let it simmer for another minute.
Remove from heat, drizzle with additional olive oil, and let it cool to enhance the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is a perfect addition to a light meal or a healthy side dish. Pair it with whole-grain bread or a fresh salad for a well-rounded, nutrient-packed meal. (For more protein, I always have some Greek yogurt on the side of my veggie dishes.)

Why You Should Try This Recipe

If you're looking for a healthy, plant-based dish that is easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, Olive Oil-Braised Celery Root is an excellent choice. It’s naturally gluten-free, rich in essential nutrients, and ideal for those seeking a wholesome diet without compromising on taste.

Give it a try and enjoy the wonderful flavors of this Mediterranean classic!

#HealthyEating #PlantBased #MediterraneanDiet #CeleryRoot #OliveOilRecipes #GlutenFree #HomemadeCooking

Light and Shadow

10/17/2024

HE Guler

I am the echo of stories untold,
A weaver of words, both fierce and bold.
A seeker of meaning, a sculptor of thought,
In the fire of wisdom, my lessons are wrought.

I stand at the crossroads of reason and dream,
Bridging the silence with voices unseen.
I speak with conviction, yet doubt lingers near,
A shadow that whispers, a phantom of fear.

Bound by devotion, yet longing to fly,
A soul seeking freedom beneath a tight sky.
I wrestle with silence, with time, with regret,
A mind that won’t rest, a heart not content.

Empathy shapes me, a double-edged sword,
It pulls at my heartstrings, yet leaves me worn.
I feel what is broken, I hear what is lost,
Yet bearing such burdens, I pay the cost.

And yet, in the chaos, a vision remains--
A future I build through struggles and pains.
For though I may stumble, I never will cease,
To chase after purpose, to craft my own peace.

--Hazel E. Guler

A Selfie Poem

9/1/2024

Hazel E. Guler at the US Botanic Garden

Mysterious, they call me, and in their words, I find
A loneliness that lingers, a solitude defined.
Perhaps it’s what I seek, in my writer’s soul so deep,
An inward gaze, where secrets and stories softly creep.

I observe life in whispers, analyzing its flow,
Intuitively navigating, letting my intuition grow.
I'm not all-knowing; the world’s weight can burden my mind,
In the quiet, in the solitude, my sanctuary I find.

--Hazel Elif Guler

About Raining on People's Parades

8/30/2024

Hazel E. Guler at a Resort in Izmir, Turkiye

Life doesn’t just hand us things on a silver platter; most of us have to fight through big hurdles just to catch glimpses of joy. It's crucial to remember that everyone is dealing with something, even those who seem to have it all together. We need to move through life with this awareness.

Do your best to find your own peace and, in the process, avoid causing harm to others--whether physically, emotionally, or even with our thoughts and attitudes. We all deserve to chase happiness without someone else raining on our parade. ☮️

Coming Back

7/23/2024

Sometimes, we find ourselves drawn back to the places where we felt loved, no matter how far we've strayed. Whether it's a physical journey or a mental return, the pull of cherished memories is strong.

"Everyone comes back
where they felt loved.
In the car. By bike.
On your knees.
In a house. In one street.
In a country. In a cemetery.
Everyone comes back
where they felt loved.
Soon. Late. In a long time.
As children. As adults. As old people.
Laughing. Crying out. Scared.
But they all come back
where they felt loved
In a memory. In a thought.
In a hug. In a dream."
--Linda Valentinis

Embrace the moments and places that make you feel loved. 🌊🏞️

#Reflection #Love #Memories #Journey #Home

Societal Truths in a Riveting Prequel to a Silent Nightmare

7/13/2024

Poster for A Quiet Place: Day One

Warning: This article may contain spoilers about the movie, A Quiet Place - Day One. Please read this article after you have watched the film.

In A Quiet Place: Day One, director Michael Sarnoski takes us back to the beginnings of the terrifying world first introduced by John Krasinski in 2018 (A Quiet Place). This prequel presents the chaotic early days of the alien invasion, providing a backstory that enriches the franchise while delivering its unique thrills. Set in the immediate aftermath of the aliens’ arrival, the film immerses spectators in the raw chaos of a society in disarray. The narrative centers on a fresh cast of characters as they struggle to understand the sudden, incomprehensible threat. The direction maintains the tension and suspense of the series. The skillful use of sound -- or rather, the absence of it -- creates an oppressive silence that amplifies each creak, whisper, and breath.

Cinematic Quality: Sight and Sound
The cinematography is stark and unsettling, with tight, claustrophobic shots that amplify the sense of dread. The film effectively uses light and shadow to create an atmosphere of constant threat, keeping viewers on edge throughout. At first glance, the premise of the “A Quiet Place” franchise might seem far-fetched -- a world overrun by sightless aliens that hunt humans by sound. Yet, beneath the surface horror lies a profound reflection of our reality on multiple levels.

Societal Reflections: Silence as Survival
The film’s exploration of silence as a necessity for survival resonates deeply with societal truths where speaking up can mean risking everything -- your own life and those of others. The movie explores the intricacies of survival in a world where noise is lethal. It forces us to confront the parallels with our own societies, where speaking out against oppression or injustice can lead to dire consequences.

Moral Dilemmas and Personal Sacrifices
This theme struck me particularly in the portrayal of characters who must navigate the moral dilemmas of self-preservation versus risking exposure to aid others. The moral complexity adds depth to the story, prompting introspection on our own values and actions in similar life-or-death situations. A poignant protagonist, a young African American woman suffering from cancer, remains in New York where the alien attacks occurred, tied to a restaurant in Harlem where she shared deeply meaningful memories with her father.

Poster for A Quiet Place: Day One

Character Analysis: A Profound Female Protagonist
What is striking about the protagonist's character is her ultimate act of sacrifice. She chooses to let go of her beloved service cat, entrusting it to a British man studying law in New York, allowing him a chance to escape the city. Yet, she herself does not accompany him. This decision raises profound questions about acceptance, fate, and the choices we make when confronted with overwhelming odds.

Does her choice to stay symbolize a resignation to fate, where survival seems futile? Perhaps she represents those of us who, faced with insurmountable challenges or impending death, choose acceptance over struggle. Her act of letting go, both of her cat and potentially of her own life, speaks to a deeper existential resignation in the face of overwhelming threats.

Horror Tropes and Allegorical Depth
However, amidst its thought-provoking themes, “A Quiet Place: Day One” does not escape some clichés and tropes. The sudden and unexplained alien invasion raises questions about the creatures’ origins and motivations. How could they coordinate the invasion and specific attacks without sight? These elements stretch plausibility but still serve as allegories for real-world dynamics. The film’s monsters, though fantastical, may symbolize the chilling reality where those in power are blind to the truth but are acutely aware of dissent. The aliens’ hypersensitivity to sound may mirror regimes that squash opposition or dissent, equating any vocalization against them as an existential threat.

Conclusion: A Haunting Reflection
In conclusion, “A Quiet Place: Day One” transcends mere horror; it offers a reflection on the fragility of truth and the consequences of defiance. It challenges viewers to consider the impact of their voices -- both literally through noise and metaphorically in speaking truth to power. Despite its fantastical elements, the film resonates with timely and timeless themes that invite introspection and discussion.

Whether you are a fan of the horror genre or a seeker of deeper meanings, “A Quiet Place: Day One” offers a haunting journey into the complexities of silence, survival, and sacrifice.

Journey

6/23/2024

There comes a moment in life when clarity breaks through the noise and confusion, and you finally know what you need to do. For me, this moment was captured beautifully in Mary Oliver's poem "Journey":

One day you finally knew
what you had to do, and began,
though the voices around you
kept shouting
their bad advice –
though the whole house
began to tremble
and you felt the old tug
at your ankles.
“Mend my life!”
each voice cried.
But you didn’t stop.
You knew what you had to do,
though the wind pried
with its stiff fingers
at the very foundations,
though their melancholy
was terrible.
It was already late
enough, and a wild night,
and the road full of fallen
branches and stones.
But little by little,
as you left their voices behind,
the stars began to burn
through the sheets of clouds,
and there was a new voice
which you slowly
recognized as your own,
that kept you company
as you strode deeper and deeper
into the world,
determined to do
the only thing you could do –
determined to save
the only life you could save.

This poem resonates with me on a profound level. It speaks to the courage required to embark on a new path, even when surrounded by doubt and uncertainty.

My life journey has been filled with uncertainty, yet each step has brought me closer to my true self. I remained hopeful and determined, and this resilience paid off as I began new professional ventures and rediscovered my passion for writing.

To anyone facing crossroads in life: trust your journey. It may involve making difficult decisions and letting go of what once seemed crucial, but listen to your own voice. Embrace the uncertainty, knowing that each step forward is a step toward saving and nurturing your life. Replanting yourself in new soil can lead to unexpected growth and fulfillment.

Every transition marks a new chapter in your life. Every step, even the uncertain ones, is leading you toward a future filled with potential and growth. Trust in your resilience, remain open to new experiences, and keep moving forward. The path may not always be clear, but with determination and an open heart, you will find your way.

#Uprooted #NewBeginnings #LifeTransitions #MaryOliver #PersonalGrowth

From Zurich, With Love

6/4/2024

Hazel E. Guler at the Zurich Airport

The world is my inspiration board. ✈️

Standing in front of "The Spirit of Switzerland" at Zurich Airport reminded me of that, and the magic of work travel. Sure, there are deadlines and meetings, but travel always brings me a fresh perspective.

Immersed in different cultures and environments, I stumble upon unexpected solutions and approaches. Building relationships in person fosters trust and leads to more impactful work. Stepping outside my comfort zone sparks creativity and reignites my passion for new projects.

And, let's be honest: who wouldn't sneak in a little sightseeing or local cuisine when their business trip allows? 😉🍫💝

#worktravel #inspiration #creativity #zurichairport

Invention: The Power of a Dream Team

5/30/2024

The other day, I found myself standing before a sign that seemed to crystallize everything I’ve come to value in the teams I work with:

“Invention: The Sky is the Limit.”

It stopped me in my tracks--not just because of its boldness, but because it perfectly captured the energy I feel in those moments when collaboration transforms into something extraordinary.

There’s a particular thrill that comes from working with clients and colleagues who don't just meet challenges--they welcome them like old friends. These are the people who approach every obstacle not with dread, but with curiosity and resolve. They see a puzzle to be solved, a new frontier to be explored, a chance to test their limits and, more often than not, surpass them.

A powerhouse team doesn’t flinch in the face of ambitious ideas. They don’t play it safe, and they certainly don’t operate with a “good enough” mentality. Instead, they greet each idea with enthusiasm, determination, and--perhaps most importantly--a shared belief that success is not a matter of luck, but of collective effort and vision.

Leading teams like this is a joy. It’s the kind of experience that doesn’t just drive outcomes--it shapes you as a leader. You find yourself listening more, learning faster, and dreaming bigger, simply because you’re surrounded by people who are willing to dare. There’s a rare kind of trust in these environments--the trust that if you name your vision, no matter how high-reaching, the team will not only aim for it but find a way to make it soar.

There really are no limits when the right people come together. Ideas that once seemed lofty suddenly take shape. Innovation stops being a buzzword and starts being the rhythm of the work. You look around, and you realize: this is what it means to create. Not just to deliver, but to invent. Together.

So here’s to the dreamers, the doers, and the teams that make the impossible possible.

#DreamTeam #Leadership #Innovation #Collaboration #SkyIsTheLimit

MY BLOG

Unyielding Light

When Words Must Do More Than Speak

What You Can Do in Just One Minute: A Writer’s Favorite Fitness Hack

Sooo... About the Market Crash. Here’s What I Snatched from an Economist Friend

“I’ve Never Seen It This Bad”: Why So Many People Are Saying This, and What It Means for the Rest of Us

What Makes a Good Leader?

What is Rhetoric?

The Academix Mindset

Insights from a Workshop: Making Meaningful Connections in the Digital Age

Happy International Women's Day!

A moment in DC

Be My Valentine: Spinach & Mozzarella Crepes with Avocado Yogurt Sauce

Echo in the Concrete

The Mazigator

Delicious and Nutritious: Olive Oil-Braised Celery Root Recipe

Light and Shadow

A Selfie Poem

About Raining on People's Parades

Coming Back

Societal Truths in a Riveting Prequel to a Silent Nightmare

Journey

From Zurich, With Love

Invention: The Power of a Dream Team

Welcome to My Little Corner of the Internet

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