Thank to
Valorie for sharing information with readers!
-The SCBC, Inc.
Where are you from? I mostly grew up in the Denver, Colorado area. I was born in Panama
City, Florida and have also lived in Frankfurt, Germany, Monterey,
California, Dallas, Texas and since getting married in 2003, I have
lived in the Washington, DC area.
Tell us your latest news?
My second book, Listen to Your Life: Following your unique path to
extraordinary success. My third book, What's Really Holding You Back?
will be released in March 2005. When and why did you begin writing? I
was inspired to begin writing books in 1999, when I had an epiphany that
my life purpose is inspiring people to live fulfilling lives ...and that
I would do that through writing an speaking.
Who or what has influenced your writing, and in what way?
Knowing my purpose has most influenced me because it gives me clear
direction about the types of themes I write about.
There are some spiritual references in your books. Do you consider
yourself a Christian writer?
I am a writer and my Lord and saviour is Jesus Christ. I write practical
wisdom for living a more fulfilling, less stressful life. Anyone can
benefit from what I write. I write from my perspective and my faith
influences my perspective.
How has your environment/upbringing colored your writing?
I draw from my experiences and lessons learned so certainly my
upbringing living all over the country and in Europe, learning foreign
languages and meeting different types of people at an early age shapes
some of what I write.
When did your writing and career as a life-coach "connect"?
In 2001, I recognized that coaching was what I was already doing through
writing and speaking. Coaching is just a one-to-one version of what I
do.
Do you feel you will always write self-help titles?
Right now, I am writing self-help, but I have certainly thought of
writing other types of books or screenplays. Eventually, I think you
will see some other manifestations of inspiration from me other than
self-help.
If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
I read a variety of books, but I cannot say that there is any one writer
I consider a mentor.
What are you reading now?
Toxic Relief by Dr. Don Colbert -- It's a great book packed with
information about how to better care for your body.
Do you feel that the boom in African American writers is a fad or
another renaissance?
I think that publishers discovered that African-American books are a
profitable niche for them, which has opened the doors for many writers
-- myself included. It's about economics. It's not a fad as long as
people keep buying the books!
Do you feel more African Americans are reading?
I hope so.
Do you see writing as a long- or short-term career?
I see this as a long-term career.
If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything?
Every experience, both good and bad, has been for a purpose. As I learn,
I grow and God is able to use me in a greater way.
Is there anything additional you would like to share with your
readers?
Enjoy life! Have fun. Take nothing for granted. Follow your passion.
