Amber was born in the Bluegrass region, the daughter of a coal miner and a stay-at-home mom, something she considers to be of great value in regards to her development and ambition for life. Writing and storytelling has long been a passion for her, leading her to study the art of journalism in college. After graduating from Northern Kentucky University, she set her sights westward, moving to Southern California to pursue opportunities in writing. She has been a San Diego County resident since 2014 and has since developed a deep love for the charming town of Oceanside, a place she now calls home. Career-wise, Amber is a digital news producer at FOX 5 San Diego, writing and producing content about all things San Diego — something she takes pride in. Read her articles at: https://fox5sandiego.com/author/amber-coakley/
About Amber Coakley
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
My little Oceanside family includes my fiancée, our French Bulldog and our cat. We love spending our days off together enjoying our beach town.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
One of the most rewarding things about being a local journalist is seeing the joy of those in the community who have a story to be told. Writing is about finding a connection and figuring out how we can all relate. I find that interesting and it fuels my passion.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Your visions can become reality, as long as you never lose sight of them. Also, embrace growth and allow yourself to evolve on your own timeline — deadlines are an illusion.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I try not to look too far ahead. Instead, I try to embrace the moments as they come and allow myself to decide what’s next when I’m called to it.
Amber Coakley & Our Community
Q: What are a few of your favorite restaurants in our community?
‘Curry and More’ in Oceanside has outstanding curry, highly recommend. I’m also a sucker for the delicious pizza slices at ‘Two Brothers From Italy,’ which has locations throughout the region.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have lived and worked in the San Diego community for 10 years.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
I have always found great interest in Vineetha Menon, the owner of Yoga Wild in Oceanside. Her presence is entrancing, while her passion for yoga, music and life is felt by all those around her.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
I would consider ‘The Cup Coffee’ in Oceanside the most nostalgic business. You can expect to see familiar faces in the community every day. Time spent there is filled with friendly conversations. It’s a safe haven.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
One of my favorite things about the San Diego community is the easy-going beach vibes. I love seeing everyone so active; whether it be zipping e-bikes, shredding skateboards or simply people walking barefoot in the sand — the community is always out and about.
Q: If you could choose anyone alive today and not a relative, with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would you meet for this lunch?
I’ve always wondered what a conversation with John Lennon would be like. I’d ask him where he found his words and what feelings inspired the lyrics many of us know so well today. I’d keep in low key and meet at my favorite coffee shop, ‘Jitter’s Coffee Pub’ in Oceanside.
For Fun
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
My favorite TV show is “Sex and the City.” Huge Carrie Bradshaw fan — I mean she is a writer after all.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
SoCal sunsets
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
Those in my yoga community inspire me to better just by bringing their energy to the mat and openness to the room. I’m always left inspired by the magic of the practice as a group.
Q: What community organizations and/or local nonprofits do you admire/support?
Humanity Showers, an organization that provides pop-up shower trailers for those experiencing homelessness in our community.
Q: What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Your best is always enough.
Q: What Neighborhood do you live in?
Oceanside
What I love about my Neighborhood:
Oceanside has the feel of a small town, which I really love. Everyone knows everyone and it truly is a community that supports one another.
Please describe your ideal San Diego weekend:
My ideal weekend would involve a coastal bike ride with my family, some tasty food enjoyed amongst friends, and a convertible cruise.
Q: Finally, what three words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Comfort, love, timeless
