We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Olivia Smarz. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Olivia below.

Olivia, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

After 5 years of being a “behind the scenes” volunteer at the Historic Hannah House, I was offered the opportunity to establish what I’ve observed and apply it to this year’s Paranormal Festival. It was formerly known as Paranormal Celebration Day. Being entrusted with the full responsibility was definitely a risk that was well worth the reward. The fundraising event raised a lot of funds that went directly toward the restoration.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

When I moved to Indiana 8yrs ago, I was intrigued by the Historic Hannah House and the connection it had with the Underground Railroad. Immediately after stepping into the house, it felt like a warm hug. Like I was home. And I decided then that I would find any way to be a part of the restoration of the house.

I was born in California, Filipino American mother and an American Father, who was in the Navy. After she passed, my father brought me out to Connecticut where I lived for most of my life. I was fortunate to be introduced to Lorraine and Ed Warren, at one of their lectures, when I was 14. From there the feelings that I had when I walked into certain places and recognizing that my mother was with me every day and that I could speak to her, were made clear by the teachings of the Warrens. They became a great part of my life, especially in my paranormal experiences. I learned from Lorraine that I could open my third eye to the other realms, and how to properly keep myself grounded and protected. Ed taught about the importance of recognizing good and bad. This helped me throughout the years when helping others.

My religious are rooted as a Roman Catholic. During my research and studying paranormalism, I learned how to help a lot of different religions. I am considered non-denominational in this way, as a paranomalist. I use my knowledge of history, various religious roots, and how to assist in ridding situations of their entities. I am not an expert. I am not a television personality. I feel I’ve been put in this place to help people & spirits in any way that I can. This has made me unfavorable in the field, because it is not about the wealth or popularity. It is about finding the truth. I use my empathic nature, as shown by Lorraine, rather than using modern devices that you may see on tv.

Over the years, I have met a lot of people that I never dreamed I could have, if I wasn’t influenced by the loving light and grace of Lorraine and Ed Warren. I started volunteering and working on the convention circuit. The opportunities and people that I’ve met in the past 10 plus years, gave me the confidence boost that my younger self could have never imagined. High profile celebrities call me their friend and rely on me when they are in need. My compassion and hard work have been noted and recognized most recently. I am very blessed.

Any advice for managing a team?

I pride myself in how well I can communicate with a group of people. I give credit to my father, and his military roots. My whole family actually. My bringing up implemented the importance of being direct, honest, clear, logical and a great problem solver. I didn’t respect all my tireless hours of doing chores and helping on the farm, until I became an adult. I often tell my father and my stepmother how thankful I am that I was brought up that way.

When working and organizing with groups of volunteers at any event, I have often been complimented on how I make sure everyone knew exactly what their role is and what was expected of them. Communication is very important. And I also do not expect anyone to do something that I wouldn’t be willing to do myself. I feel that makes me a good leader.

At my day job, as a Direct Support Professional Lead, I manage a group home with 4 other direct support professionals. We are a great team. And the main reason is because everyone knows what is expected of them. And they know that if they have a question about anything, the can discuss it with me or as a collective.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

Being attentive to their needs and to be in constant communication with them. And if policies or procedures change, that it is relayed as soon as possible. Also, letting them know when and how to communicate with me when I am not available. Keeping a line open is very important to me. I would want the same respect in return.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.historichannahhouse.net
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/olivia.smarz?mibextid=ZbWKwL

Image Credits

Indiana Comic Convention
Indiana PopCon
Historic Hannah House
Historic Hannah House Paranormal Festival
Jacoby Ray, Jacoby’s Alliance