The Accident is the story of author, Gayle Petrillo, a burn survivor, and the obstacles she has overcome. Gayle shares how she continues to turn tragedy into triumph by facing her fears and phobias (rational and irrational). She struggled for years with body image issues, bullying, feeling ‘different’, lack of self-confidence, FOMO (fear of missing out), and imposter syndrome. Finally comfortable in her own skin, she vulnerably shows us how she has identified her super powers and how you can identify yours. The Accident is available in English and Spanish at www.booklocker.com.

Her second book will be available late fall of 2024. It’s The Accident on steroids, with a different title, to be determined. The Accident was originally written as a children’s book; however, while having difficulty writing in that genre, the book morphed into a book avoiding heavier, personal topics and stories, that will be in the new book for adults, such as experiencing a miscarriage and an abusive marriage, being stalked and other experiences where she had to overcome fears and phobias.

Gayle has learned to listen and share to heal; and her growth continues as she pushes past things that previously would have stopped her in her tracks. She utilizes skills she has learned to cross bridges and ascend mountains (figuratively and realistically), and coaches others by inspiring, empowering and motivating them to do the same. We have all been burned (physically and/or emotionally, and we all have stories; and by sharing them, we heal and help others heal as well. We are never truly alone!

Gayle has spoken in front of audiences from 7 to 100+ including Girl Scout troops, Rotary and Kiwanis meetings, book clubs, the Tucson Young Professionals annual conference, for-profit and non-profit corporations and organizations, and has been the keynote speaker for school commencements and womens’ luncheons.

As a career and confidence coach and trainer, Gayle’s clients have resumes that stand out. Her clients are prepared through mock interviews and learning negotiating strategies. Those ‘soft’ skills are key to her clients’ success. Additionally, she teaches networking skills (it’s more than exchanging business cards), and assists with wardrobe analysis and closet transitions, ensuring her clients’ first impressions are the best they can be. Gayle’s clients have landed interviews and job offers immediately upon submitting their resumes and cover letters, which is a tribute to success, and her clients.

Gayle also provides executive coaching for both those new to management, as well as those already in the C-suite arena.

For corporate clients, Gayle provides etiquette, social skills and customer service training.