A Little Bit About Me
Life’s too short for boring bios. So, grab a cup of coffee (or a margarita, I don’t judge) and settle in for a tale of exploration, laughter, and the occasional economic analysis. I’m Mark Lancelot Linsley (yes, it’s a family name, and no, I don’t joust, though the mental image is amusing). I hail from the sunny city of Mesa, Arizona, but my heart belongs to the world. From the vibrant streets of European capitals to the tranquil beaches of Ecuador, I’ve embraced every opportunity to explore, learn, and connect with the incredible tapestry of human experience.
My journey began at Arizona State University, where I double-majored in International Economics and Political Science, with a dash of philosophical pondering thrown in for good measure. A summer internship at Disney’s magical realm added a sprinkle of pixie dust to my academic pursuits, proving that even economists can appreciate a bit of enchantment.
But the classroom couldn’t contain my wanderlust for long. A four-month backpacking adventure through Europe with my trusty travel companion, Nima, led us through the iconic streets of London, Amsterdam, Florence, Rome, and beyond. We savored delectable cuisines, immersed ourselves in diverse cultures, and created memories that will forever hold a special place in my heart.
Then came the call of Ecuador, a land of vibrant landscapes and warm-hearted people. I embarked on a month-long immersion program, attempting to conquer the waves on a surfboard and the intricacies of the Spanish language. While my “Hang Ten” and “Hola” might still need some work, the joy and laughter I experienced were immeasurable. Fueled by this newfound love for Ecuador, I extended my stay, venturing off the beaten path to explore its hidden gems, from the depths of the Amazon jungle to the charming coastal villages.
The next chapter unfolded in the City of Angels, Los Angeles. With a suitcase full of dreams and a car serving as my temporary abode, I navigated the hustle and bustle until a stroke of luck landed me a job at Paperfish, a newly opened restaurant in Beverly Hills. A chance encounter with a girl named Cupcake (yes, her Chihuahua’s name!) led me to a sublet with an epic view of downtown LA, right on the edge of Skid Row. It was an experience filled with unexpected friendships and a unique perspective on the city’s diverse tapestry.
Always bold in a challenge, I even delved into sailing despite having zero nautical experience. Armed with a “Sailing for Dummies” book and a fearless spirit, my friend Ryan and I purchased a sailboat and embarked on a maritime adventure. We learned to navigate the unpredictable seas, embracing the freedom and challenges of life on board.
While riding the waves, I pursued my passion for International Diplomacy and Economics in graduate school, further expanding my knowledge and honing my analytical skills. After several years of seafaring adventures, I returned to my Arizona roots, taking on roles in healthcare administration and eventually leading the largest Planned Parenthood in the state. Talk about a diverse resume!
My adventures continued with a trip Down Under to Australia, where I swam with a 15-foot crocodile (don’t worry, I lived to tell the tale!) and a stopover in the paradise of Fiji. Through it all, I’ve remained dedicated to my love for economics and data analysis, using my skills to make sense of the world and contribute to positive change.
The pandemic threw a curveball, leading to an unexpected furlough. But I embraced the downtime, rekindling my love for golfing, swimming, and aquatic things. I also welcomed a mischievous chocolate lab rescue dog named Aida into my life, adding chaos and canine companionship to my days.
With renewed energy, I pivoted into strategic marketing consulting, applying my analytical skills to a new industry. And now, a new chapter beckons: In February 2025, I’ll be setting sail for Ecuador again to make it my home. I’m excited to immerse myself in the culture, contribute to the community, and continue exploring the beauty and wonder of this incredible country.
So, that’s me in a nutshell (or a coconut shell, considering my love for tropical adventures). I’m driven by curiosity, passion, and a purpose to make a meaningful impact. Life’s a grand adventure, and I’m embracing every wave, every current, and every unexpected detour along the way.
Feel free to reach out if you need a good story, a dose of laughter, or an insightful analysis of economic trends (with a side of witty sarcasm). I’m always up for connecting with adventurers and sharing tales from my ever-unfolding journey.