Welcome to the online press kit for Kristine Ochu
What Would a LumberJill Do? Finding Balance, Resilience, and Purpose.
From World Champion Log-Roller to HR Executive, Author, and Speaker, Kristine Ochu Inspires Women to ‘Keep on Rolling’ Through Life’s Unexpected Twists
Kristine Ochu’s journey is proof that life’s toughest challenges can inspire extraordinary transformation. A former World Champion Log-Roller, seasoned HR executive, and now celebrated author, Kristine knows what it takes to stay balanced — literally and figuratively.
As a former LumberJill (a female lumberjack), Kristine had to be fearless, determined, and resourceful to compete in the sport of log-rolling alongside world champions in axe-throwing, pole-climbing, chopping, sawing, and other timber sports. She went on to a career as an HR executive, guiding thousands toward personal and professional success.
Kristine’s story took a dramatic turn in June 2023, when she was diagnosed with Ramsey Hunt Syndrome. This rare facial nerve condition caused by the shingles virus tested her resilience and propelled her forward. She did not let this setback stop her from her mission: empowering audiences to reclaim their strength and purpose.
Today, Kristine uses her experience from the Northwoods to the corporate boardroom. With her expertise in leadership, positive psychology, and storytelling, she inspires women to unleash their inner LumberJill to thrive through life's unexpected twists. Her motto? “When life throws you off balance, ask yourself, ‘What would a LumberJill do?’” Kristine’s answer: “Keep on Rolling!”
“Life’s like balancing on a log — every step counts, and every fall teaches you how to get back up and keep on rolling!” – Kristine Ochu
Meet Kristine Ochu
Kristine’s empowering work centers around her groundbreaking book “Campfire Confessions” and her transformational “Keep on Rolling” tools, talks, and guest appearances. With over 35 years of research in neuroscience and personal development, Kristine equips women to tackle challenges with confidence, persistence, and purpose. Her LumberJill metaphor speaks to anyone trying to stay balanced in a chaotic world: “When life knocks you off balance, don’t ever give up. Instead, ask yourself, ‘What would a LumberJill do?’ Then take one more step. Every small step forward is a victory."
Kristine’s experience with Ramsey Hunt Syndrome deepened her understanding of resilience, helping her connect with audiences seeking authenticity and practical tools they can use “on the spot” to empower themselves. Her “Keep on Rolling” tools can be used anytime and anywhere to empower women to shift from stress, anxiety, self-doubt, sadness and exhaustion to calm, peacefulness, confidence, joy, and renewal.
“What differentiates this handbook is that it’s a quick, easy, and powerful resource,” she says. “Think of it as an empowerment first aid kit. If one tool doesn’t work, then a woman can pick a different one. They have choices!”
Signature Offerings
- “Campfire Confessions”
This laugh-out-loud novel has been dubbed "Sex and the City" meets “Eat Pray Love.” Through heartfelt storytelling, it explores themes of sisterhood, self-discovery, and empowerment. Readers love its humor, honesty, and the reminder that it’s never too late to rewrite your story. - “Keep on Rolling” toolkit, talks, and seminar guest appearances
These interactive experiences offer practical tools to help participants manage stress, rebuild confidence, and thrive through transitions. Whether it’s learning to tackle self-doubt or crafting a clear vision for your next chapter, Kristine helps you unleash your inner LumberJill — resilient, fearless, and unstoppable.
What Would a LumberJill Do? A Life of Balance and Bold Steps
Imagine stepping out onto a log that’s 12 inches in diameter with your opponent on the other end, eager to dump you into the water. The whistle blows and the match is on! Every step counts.Your opponent splashes water in your face, bobs, and kicks the log to reverse direction, trying to shake your confidence. You remain determined, focused, and keep your feet moving. When you slip, you don’t give up — you take one more step and regain your balance. Every recovery is a win. That’s the metaphor Kristine Ochu brings to life in her presentations, guest appearances, and books.
Her “Keep on Rolling” toolkit is built on these principles: balance, resilience, and the unshakable courage to take one more step, even when you feel like giving up. Whether you're navigating career pivots, personal challenges, or just trying to find joy in the chaos, Kristine’s tools help you stay fearless, grounded, and unstoppable while reaching for your goals
Through her dynamic, transformational talks, guest appearances, presentations, and the laugh-out-loud lessons in “Campfire Confessions,” Kristine inspires women to embrace life’s unpredictability and unleash their inner LumberJill — resilient, fearless, and unstoppable.
Kristine is passionate about giving back. Proceeds from her book sales support women’s cancer groups, library foundations, and other charitable initiatives. Her 2022 UNICEF campaign raised awareness and funds for Ukrainian refugee children, sparking a movement of compassion.
Download a one-sheet for Kristine Ochu.
Public website KristineOchu.com