Shannon studied Psychology and Biology at Gustavus Adolphus College, specializing in Mind-Body health.  That exploration of thoughts and emotions affecting physical wellness, expanded as she applied that holistic philosophy to families, recognizing the emotional components and cognative belief systems that are present as we create our relationships. 

Seeing an opportunity to apply that philosophy by inspiring people to become aware of the ways in which they relate to others, she studied mediation through classes in Non-Violent Communication, Erickson Mediation Institute, and Christine Leick's Dispute Resolution Services.  She’s furthered that study through many hours of training through the Collaborative Law Institute of Minnesota.

Born in South Dakota and raised in Nebraska, Shannon lived in both Colorado and California before moving to Bloomington, Minnesota, where she lives with her husband Steve and their young son Sam. Shannon and Steve spend most of their free time racing sailboats locally on Lake Minnetonka, as well as at national regattas across the country.