Blind Strengths with Mary Hamm

# Finding Joy in the Mountains

> Mary and Bill discuss their love for nature and strengths.

In this episode of *Strengths on Fire*, Mary and Bill dive into a light-hearted debate about the ultimate vacation destination: the beach or the mountains. Through their playful banter, listeners get a glimpse into their personalities and preferences that shape their experiences.

## Beach vs. Mountains: The Ultimate Debate

Mary poses a fun question to Bill: if he had to choose between a beach vacation or a mountain getaway, which would it be? Bill quickly declares his allegiance to the mountains, sharing his love for the serenity and beauty of the Sierra Nevada. He reminisces about taking a four-wheel drive up into the mountains, where he finds peace and a chance to reflect on the year ahead.

> "If I wanna get away, I’ll take my four wheel drive up into the mountains around the Sierra Nevadas and I’ll go into a meadow and do some journaling."

> — Bill Dippel

Mary chimes in, revealing her own affinity for the mountains. Having lived in Memphis, she often has to travel to find her beloved peaks, but she feels a deep connection to nature that rejuvenates her spirit. She describes how the mountains soothe her soul and provide the calm amidst her busy life.

## Strengths Lab: Getting to Know Each Other

As the episode unfolds, Bill introduces a new segment called "Blind Strengths," where he will guess Mary's strengths based on their conversations. He asks her to share something she excels at that comes naturally to her. Mary recounts her experiences at a summer camp in Pennsylvania, where she is responsible for organizing fun activities for a group of over 130 kids.

> "I’m in charge of all things fun, basically... always on standby for if we have crazy weather and a hundred and thirty kids need to be entertained at the last minute."

> — Mary Hamm