We had the good fortune of connecting with Danielle Spencer and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Danielle, why did you pursue a creative career?
My artistic and creative career was not something I initially set out to pursue—it was a path I felt compelled to take. With a background in STEM, including degrees in the medical and IT fields, I have spent nearly 25 years working in IT. However, in 2022, I encountered two alarming incidents involving fabricated documents—a falsified traffic ticket and a title report containing false information. Concerned that more fraudulent documents could surface, I decided to document my whistleblower experience through writing. This necessity-driven storytelling ultimately led me into the creative world, where I use my work to shed light on important issues.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am an author, privacy rights advocate, and a federal government whistleblower. With nearly 25 years of IT experience specializing in business, finance, and acquisition management, I’ve built a career grounded in analysis, leadership, and innovation. I hold two master’s degrees—one in Business Administration and another in Information Systems—as well as a Bachelor of Science in Medical and Research Technology. Additionally, I am certified in Information Assurance (cybersecurity) and Project Management.

What sets me apart is my willingness to speak out and document my whistleblowing experience through my books. Transitioning from a highly technical and analytical field into writing has been one of my proudest accomplishments. Becoming a published author was a deeply personal achievement, as it allowed me to transform my experiences into something meaningful and artistic.

My journey has not been easy. I come from a family that didn’t have financial advantages, and I am the first in my family to earn a college degree. It took the sacrifices of many before me—especially my parents—for me to receive a great education and build a successful career. Through this, I’ve learned that persistence and faith are essential to overcoming challenges. Patience is something I continue to work on, and I expect it will always be a lifelong lesson.

More than anything, I want people to understand the power and potential misuse of technology. I believe I survived what can only be described as a digital assassination attempt, and my story serves as a warning about the dangers of technological manipulation. My goal is to raise awareness, empower others, and continue advocating for truth and justice.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting the Washington, DC area for a week, I’d plan an itinerary filled with history, culture, great food, and unique experiences.

Day 1: We’d start with a classic—exploring the National Mall and visiting the Smithsonian museums, like the National Museum of African American History and Culture or the Air and Space Museum. For dinner, we’d head to Old Ebbitt Grill in NW DC for a taste of classic DC dining.

Day 2: A day trip to Annapolis, MD for brunch at Miss Shirley’s Café, followed by a stroll through the historic downtown and a scenic waterfront walk. We’d cap the evening with seafood by the harbor.

Day 3: A mix of culture and fun—starting with a visit to the National Gallery of Art and then enjoying Tea About Town, a unique sightseeing experience on a tea bus tour. Dinner would be at Maggiano’s in Tysons Corner, VA.

Day 4: A deep dive into history at the Library of Congress and Capitol Hill, followed by a relaxing dinner at Seasons 52 in Columbia, MD, known for its fresh, seasonal menu.

Day 5: A visit to the National Arboretum for a nature break, followed by a delicious Italian dinner at Topolino’s in Suitland, MD.

Day 6: Exploring Georgetown, shopping, and enjoying waterfront views, followed by dinner at The Cheesecake Factory in Tysons Corner.

Day 7: A final day of relaxation and reflection—perhaps a spa visit or a scenic drive through Virginia wine country before heading to Haymarket, VA for a farm-to-table dining experience.

The DC metro area has so much to offer, and this mix of history, culture, and food would make for an unforgettable trip!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my parents and my church. My parents have always been a source of strength, wisdom, and encouragement, shaping my values and work ethic. My church community has provided unwavering support, faith, and inspiration throughout my journey. Their guidance and belief in me have played a significant role in my story, and I’m truly grateful for them.

Website: https://daniellespencer.org/

Instagram: daniellespencer3647

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-spencer-20aa6926a

Youtube: @DanielleSpencer-hv5fh

Other: BlueSky: @daniellespencer25.bsky.social

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSoCal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.