Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Sami Jo Lien. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Sami Jo , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Do you take vacations? Why or why not?

I think travel is SUPER important because it takes you out of your routine and your element and freshens your perspective. It brings movement, new scenery, delicious food and pulls so many stresses of home off of your plate for a time so that you can slow down and really enjoy the things around you.

I generally find if I’m stressed or feeling burnt out, a vacation is just the thing to snap me out of my rut so that I can return with new ideas and motivation for my clients. My work and dedication is higher quality, and I know that transfers over to everyone with whom I work. Just like I give 110% to my career when I’m at my desk, I give that same effort to myself when I’m on a break.

We all work hard to be able to take those vacations – so we need to enjoy them at their full capacity!

Sami Jo , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My name is Sami Jo Lien and I’ve been in entertainment publicity for nearly 15 years, but have always harbored a love for interior design. In 2021, I set out with a plan to build an ADU in our backyard to utilize for myself, family, friends and visitors to our South Denver neighborhood through short-tem rental. After several stall-outs and added permitting costs, I decided to pursue another route: A 1978 Airstream.

One of the things I am most proud of is my very long list of AirBnB stays all around the world! Travel brings me incredible joy, and it’s also made me want to host my own space for visitors. I’ve picked up influence from everywhere I’ve traveled, and decided to incorporate a lot of that inspiration into my airstream, Margo.

Margo has a really eclectic soul. She blends the retro charm of the ’70s with a cozy, handcrafted feel of a UK shepherd’s hut. She’s an inviting little retreat design for relaxation, creativity and connection, whether you’re looking for a quiet solo escape, a romantic getaway or a stylish crash pad right in the heart of Denver.

I think she serves that little bit of whimsy we all have to try new things; maybe she even offers you an opportunity to scratch the “stay in an airstream” item off of your bucket list. You can glamp in our very quiet, island-like neighborhood, and then hop over the river for a music concert at Levitt Pavillion, or over the bridge to South Broadway for excellent cocktails, food, coffee and fun. It’s the best of all worlds.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

I think my experience in publicity over the years has been a huge help. I’ve always put major focus on building and maintaining relationships, because I do think the further we get into the career world, we find it really is how you treat people, and who you know.

I am a problem solver and a cheerleader, and I place great intent on making people feel seen and heard. That fuels me, and I think that resonates strongly with people.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

I was raised by a very strong, single mom. She taught me early on that you can do anything you put your mind to, and so I’ve always dove head first into most things with grit and joy. One thing I’ve never been good at though? Asking for help.

In January 2023, I was diagnosed with breast cancer, and my little family’s world changed over night. This wasn’t something I had any experience in, and I wanted to ensure my family was taken care of so I could focus intently on the battle I was about to fight.

Boy, oh boy, did I find out how loved and supported we were. Meals, gifts, dates for chemo, friends flying from out of state to keep me company, take care of my during surgery, help with the kids. I have never felt so loved or supported in my life, and it’s because I finally learned to let others step-in and help.

I really found that people WANT to help, and if you’re clear and direct with them, they’re more than happy to be there. I also think it’s fascinating to see how people show up for you, because it teaches you so much about them, and what means the most to them — it’s such valuable knowledge.

I’m embarrassed it took me so long to learn that lesson (and in such a severe way), but I am forever grateful. Life has 100% leveled up SO MUCH by unlearning my solo approach and allowing others in to help me accomplish my goals.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://margotheoc.com / https://rogercharlie.com
• Instagram: @margotheoc / @samijolien
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/margotheoc and https://www.facebook.com/samijolien
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthalien/
• Twitter: @samijolien

Image Credits

Photos by Loredana Gaudoisp (https://www.loredanaphotography.com)