Good People By Patmeena Sabit

Credit: Good People By Patmeena Sabit

Overview

The Sharaf family is the picture of success. Prosperous, rich, happy. They came to this country as refugees with nothing more than the clothes on their backs. And now, after years of hard work, they live in the most exclusive neighborhood, their growing family attending the most prestigious schools. Zorah, the eldest daughter, is the apple of her father’s eye. When an unthinkable tragedy strikes, everyone is left reeling and the family is thrust into the court of public opinion. There is talk that behind closed doors the Sharafs’ happy household was anything but. Did the Sharaf family achieve the American dream? Or was the image of the model immigrant family just a façade? Read more here. Credit: Penguin Random House.

The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny

 

Credit: the Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny

Overview

When Sonia and Sunny first glimpse each other on an overnight train, they are immediately captivated yet also embarrassed by the fact that their grandparents had once tried to matchmake them, a clumsy meddling that served only to drive Sonia and Sunny apart.

Sonia, an aspiring novelist who recently completed her studies in the snowy mountains of Vermont, has returned to her family in India. She fears that she is haunted by a dark spell cast by an artist to whom she had once turned for intimacy and inspiration. Sunny, a struggling journalist resettled in New York City, is attempting to flee his imperious mother and the violence of his warring clan. Uncertain of their future, Sonia and Sunny embark on a search for happiness together as they confront the many alienations of our modern world. Read more here. Credit: Kiran Desai.

We Can Do Hard Things

 

Credit: We Can Do Hard Things

Every day, Glennon Doyle spirals around the same questions: Why am I like this? How do I figure out what I want? How do I know what to do? Why can’t I be happy? Am I doing this right? The harder life gets, the less likely she is to remember the answers she’s spent her life learning. She wonders: I’m almost fifty years old. I’ve overcome a hell of a lot. Why do I wake up every day having forgotten everything I know?

Glennon’s compasses are her sister, Amanda, and her wife, Abby. Recently, in the span of a single year, Glennon was diagnosed with anorexia, Amanda was diagnosed with breast cancer, and Abby’s beloved brother died. For the first time, they were all lost at the same time. So they turned toward the only thing that’s ever helped them find their way: deep, honest conversations with other brave, kind, wise people. They asked each other, their dearest friends, and 118 of the world’s most brilliant wayfinders: As you’ve traveled these roads—marriage, parenting, work, recovery, heartbreak, aging, new beginnings—have you collected any wisdom that might help us find our way? Read more here. Credit: Penguin Random House.

A Generous Life

 

Credit: A Generous Life; David Green with Bill High

Overview

As the founder and CEO of the largest privately owned arts and crafts retailer in the world, David has amassed material wealth, yet has learned the secret of generous living. As someone who gives away half of his profits to charity, lives with integrity and faith, and enjoys the peace of crafting a legacy now, David has found peace and fulfillment.

A Generous Life:

- guides you through ten simple but life-changing action steps
- helps you establish a generous mindset, determine where and how much to give, how to create a family legacy plan, and more
- teaches you how to identify your blessings—friendships, family, work, education, or talents

Credit: A Generous Life; Olive Tree.

You Got This By Melissa Horvath

 

Credit: You Got This, Devotional

Overview

You Got This was written by Sweet Water Decor's Owner and Designer, Melissa Horvath. It's easy for women to get wrapped up in all that we do and then forget who God created us to be. Whether we're hardworking inside the home or outside the home or both we all need encouragement and grace to meet the demands life puts on us. This 90-day devotional helps women de-stress by focusing on how we're blessed. Each entry reminds us to tap into God's strength, develop a healthy view of success and failure, and learn to accept ourselves as God's unique creations designed for a unique purpose. Credit: Sweet Water Decor.

Nutrition Matters

 

Credit: Nourishing Hope, Neil Roberts

Overview

In our modern society, the issue of hunger persists despite advancements in various fields. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) stands as a cornerstone of the fight against food insecurity in the United States. This program, formerly known as food stamps, provides vital assistance to millions of low-income individuals and families, ensuring they have access to nutritious food. In this brief guide, readers learn the intricacies of SNAP, from its history and eligibility criteria to its impact on individuals and communities across the nation. Credit: Nourishing Hope; Neil Roberts. 

Public service announcement courtesy of Roberts Ed from Akron, Ohio.

Celebrate Life Through Writing

Credit: Writers Series | Maryan Bova

Maryan is based in Sydney Australia, is a Transformational Coach, workshop facilitator and speaker. Passionate, values driven, and dedicated to seeing you realise the most exceptional version of yourself, Maryan brings together all of her work, life and personal experiences, to serve you at the highest level. She draws on her 28 years in the health industry, personal development and positive psychology space to coach in health, relationships, self-care and resilience, leadership and teams, parenting and career transition. In addition she consults with businesses on easy solutions and ideas to improve staff and management experience and simple ideas to potentially increase revenue. As a Mum of 3, recently celebrating 25 years of marriage and an entrepreneur, she brings an intelligent, strategic approach, infused with lightheartedness, depth of insight and emphasis on self-awareness, helping you create the results and inner transformation you desire. Maryan is currently writing her book “My Mother, My Rock, a spiritual perspective on death and dying” after her Mum was diagnosed with Grade 4 brain cancer in 2020. She hopes to offer the audience  hope, purpose and connection  when faced with life’s challenges. Credit: Maryan Bova.

Bad Ass Parenting Guidance by Author CJ Scarlet

Credit: CJ Scarlet, www.cjscarlet.com

CJ Scarlet, aka the Badass Grandma, is a danger expert and author of books that help parents empower their kids to avoid predators and escape from dangerous situations. She knows first-hand how violence can destroy lives. A survivor of childhood abuse and teen sexual assault, CJ spent years dealing with the emotional aftermath of her experience. After taking her power back, she became an advocate for others who had been victimized, running a child advocacy center and serving as Director of Victims Issues for the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office. Over her 30 years as a victim advocate, CJ has helped thousands of survivors claim their power too. The former roller-skating carhop, forest firefighter, and U.S. Marine photojournalist holds a master’s degree in human violence. Named one of the “Happy 100” people on the planet, CJ’s story of triumph over adversity is featured in several bestselling books. Credit:  CJ Scarlet.

Credit: CJ Scarlet Books, Sample

Make Your Soul Shine with Bracha Goetz

 

Credit: Writers Series, Presented by Sasha Talks | Bracha Goetz

Meet Bracha Goetz

Bracha is not your typical Harvard grad - she's the author of 41 picture books that help children grow spiritually, inspiring each uniquely beautiful soul to shine. Her books make life's deepest concepts clear - in a delightfully simple way - as children find big ideas in little words. Credit: Goetz Book Shop.

Educated, A Memoir

 

Credit: Educated

Overview

Born to survivalists in the mountains of Idaho, Tara Westover was seventeen the first time she set foot in a classroom. Her family was so isolated from mainstream society that there was no one to ensure the children received an education, and no one to intervene when one of Tara’s older brothers became violent. When another brother got himself into college, Tara decided to try a new kind of life. Her quest for knowledge transformed her, taking her over oceans and across continents, to Harvard and to Cambridge University. Only then would she wonder if she’d traveled too far, if there was still a way home. Credit: Educated.

 

Meet Speaker, Educator & Author Joseph Giampapa

 

Credit: Joseph Giampapa | www.josephgiampapa.com

Meet Joseph Giampapa

A nationally known Speaker and Educator, Joseph Giampapa holds a Masters Degree in communication and affiliations in three countries. He has been named to the Entertainment Industry Council Speakers Bureau's "Roster of Celebrities" with such Board Member notables (past and present) as Frank Sinatra, Tim Conway, Lucille Ball, and Jack Anderson to name a few. He specializes in the areas of "Self-Empowerment", Effective Communication, Self-image and making positive impacts in peoples' lives. 

He was raised in the suburbs of Chicago . By the time he was eighteen, he was working for the Red Cross entertainment service as a "stand-up comedian. Using "family humor" and coming from a family of eleven, he was never at a loss for material. When he was in Europe , he wrote, directed and produced various road shows for our servicemen overseas. Later in the states, as a teacher with a background in Communication and Sociology, he always made sure his students were getting their money's worth. He created high energy projects such as burying a "time capsule" in front of city hall and helped supply a school being built in the Philippines through the Peace Corps. Joe has been labeled a leader in the field of interpersonal communication and maintained a private practice for years, helping individuals "reprogram" their lives for success. He has developed programs for both the corporate and private sectors and has served on and chaired many community boards. He has developed television programs for preschoolers to bolster self-worth and has had White House staff recommend one of his programs with possible implementation in the future.

Joseph holds with the philosophy that everyone was meant to be someone. His own list of titles include: Professor, Playwright, Director, Producer and Lecturer. He is dedicated to helping each of us communicate more effectively. He introduces us to our own personal "tools for life" enabling each of us to empower ourselves to achieve greatness. Credits: Credits: Joseph Giampapa, Joseph Giampapa Books; What I Will I Can

Writer Anita S. Roy on Tragedy & New Beginnings

Credit: KreativeCircle.com | Anita S. Roy

Anita, Welcome to Authors by Sasha! You've achieved a successful career as a ghostwriter serving prominent names in the entertainment and business industries. When were you introduced to the craft of writing and how did it evolve into a career that has "nourished" (per your words) your family?

Thank you. I've been fortunate to develop a long career which has nurtured my curiosity, sustained a roof over my head, and has allowed me to expand my growing family. I was introduced to the craft of writing at the young age of four. I recall going to work with my father. He used to sell foreign carpets. He would frequent the shop showroom selling to people while in the back room I would keep myself busy by writing stories in the form of plays. Writing was a past time for me. It allowed my mind to wander off. As for my personal history, I was born in Mumbai, India. The first 10 years of my life were spent in Zimbabwe. Later my family moved to Morocco for better opportunities. This also put a strain on my parents' marriage due to moving around without a set destination. My mother opted to return to India for a brief span of time. My brothers and I joined our mother to spend time in Mumbai. My mother enrolled us to study classic literature and writing in two languages - Hindi and English. Those classes focused on creative writing, theater; et al. She encouraged us to find a passion we could develop as part of our cultural identity. Unfortunately, my studies were cut short at the age of 16. My mother discovered she had leukemia, an uninvited shock, when we were already financially strapped managing two homes. 

 Soon, as a family, we decided to join our father again in Morocco. My mother was able to find better care to help her condition. I resumed my studies by attending trade school. Majority of the classes stressed the importance of domestic arts and parenting. The trade school was split in two sub-schools educating young girls and college aged women. Domestic arts didn't pique my interest. I knew one day I was expected to get married. I resumed my education by studying domestic arts for three years. Marriage followed my studies. It was an arranged marriage, a practice still popular within my culture and family legacy. I spent the first 15 years of my marriage taking care of my husband, raising two beautiful kids; et al. My husband's unexpected death caught me off guard 17 years into our marriage. I went from a housewife wanting to discover her identity to mourning her husband's passing. 

Overnight I was faced with new challenges. How was I supposed to support my children? I started working part time jobs from being a bookkeeper to sewing outfits for locals in the community. My manager at the bookkeeping job was aware of my affinity for writing. He and his wife set me up with a writing tutor to help me develop skills that would later help me secure white collar jobs in office settings. I started writing on the side as a passion and over a span of four years I started acquiring a following. This is before the internet took center stage. There was a local newspaper hosting a competition crediting fiction writers. The winner would receive 2500 dirham. My neighbor convinced me to submit a piece. I received a call about three weeks later informing me that I had won. This brought my work into the limelight which spurred my soul into action. I was seeking local book shops for social engagements to connect with other writers and readers. My writing assignments came far and few in between until I was hired by a local newspaper in need of a weekly column. Majority of my paid assignments came through word of mouth and referrals. This is how I survived as a single mother for a long period of time.

Growing up in South Africa introduced you to many different cultures and lifestyles. How did your teenage experiences shape your view of the world?

Growing up in South Africa introduced me to different faces, smells, and STORYTELLING. South Africans love storytelling. I encourage people to study their history. It's rich, it' raw. It's made of dreams and emotions that go unmatched by other cultures. I grew up in a melting pot surrounded by multilingual citizens communicating their dreams to anyone on the street willing to listen. Most of my teenage years were spent in Africa. I met people from all walks of life that weren't socially common back in Mumbai. Some of these friends were very progressive in their lifestyle choices. Some were opinionated towards their view of the world. Nothing was off the table with them. Not sex, not drugs, nothing. They could hold their own when debating about social issues and global politics. I wasn't groomed to have a voice to speak on topics which were once perceived controversial. I came from a simple home. My social outlet for any stimulating conversation took place within the four corners of my parents' home. I'm grateful for my South African friends introducing me to a part of life I would otherwise not known. Slowly I was immersed in getting to know people which helped me overcome my social handicap (shyness). Ghostwriters are anonymous when writing. Whether you're a ghost writer or not, you're writing on a piece of paper, you're typing your story line... you're not necessarily in front of an audience. There's a different type of stage fright ghostwriters face time to time.

As a military wife, you've had the privilege of traveling the world with your husband and children. How did you meet your husband? What role did he play in resurrecting your love for writing?

Military life treated my family well! I traveled the world during the first 10 years of my marriage. My husband Rishi and I decided we would start a family sooner than later because military life can be unpredictable. Both of our children were born in foreign countries. Our oldest son was born in Italy. Our younger daughter was born in Indonesia. I met Rishi initially through family friends. Rishi was visiting from abroad to celebrate our cultural holiday, Holi, with his parents. We crossed paths once to exchange pleasantries. A year later when the marriage proposal came, I knew marriage was the next step in my life chapter. Nine months later, we celebrated an arranged marriage. Fortunately our personalities and family values meshed well to build a strong foundation for our children. I couldn't be prouder of calling him my husband, my best friend. It was his passing which triggered a series of events leading me to seek a livelihood to keep a roof over our heads. My husband took pride in being a breadwinner, now I was left to figure out how to become the breadwinner. His absence left me with the burden of raising two children without a father figure. Emotional support from others was sufficient to keep us afloat as I discovered new means of earning an income to support a family of three. My children transitioned from the daily comforts of military life to living in a one bedroom apartment with limited amenities to address basic needs. 

Life changed overnight for our family. We lived with these limitations for about five months until I secured part-time day jobs which offered me freedom to work when my children were at school. Night jobs weren't an option until my children were self sufficient without needing to rely on me as much. Writing became a healthy outlet for me in the evenings. Before writing turned into an income stream, I started journaling at night. I kept a journal to communicate with my deceased husband; letting him know how the day went. what happened in our children's lives; what was happening in the world. On rare occasions, I would open the journal at night just to cry over those blank sheets of paper wishing Rishi were still alive. My children and I learned how to thrive in his absence. Writing took a life form after my husband passed away. Putting my thoughts into words stirred a connection letting me speak to him through writing. It was later in time I began writing for strangers needing someone to translate their thoughts into words.

Pursuing a career in writing can be challenging because many manuscript submissions are overlooked in the publishing industry. The acceptance rate is limiting that people explore self-publishing for many reasons. You've had the pleasure of working with prominent publishing houses globally over the past 25 years. What have you learned about the pitching process?

I've submitted over fifty four manuscripts since I started writing full time back in 1998. It is a challenging industry to break into but writers need to remain determined to share their message. If your message is powerful, make sure to publish it in some form. Not every message requires a publisher; there are many publishing outlets available. There are no guarantees for acceptance. There are no fixed time frames for receiving feedback. Some publishing houses can take years to read your script. Don't wait on feedback in order to proceed to your next assignment. The first few rejections definitely made me question whether I should continue on my writing journey. I encourage everyone to submit their manuscript. Read the directions on each publisher's page. Each publishing company has different objectives to meet. Not all publishing houses represent all genres. Always Check. Are they looking for nonfiction, fiction, fantasy? They have plenty to read. Remain open to feedback. The feedback cycle in writing is never ending.

Anita, what have you learned about rejection in your career path?

Rejection is a part of life. The sooner you grasp it, the better it is for everyone including yourself. Rejection exists in every corner of life. It only means you're going in the wrong direction. You need to find a new course of action. Some of my biggest rejections forced me to focus better. Rejection makes us reflect whether our actions have a greater purpose.

Some writers take pride in being self-taught professionals. What are your thoughts on how writing should be taught?

I am partially a self taught professional due to gaps in my education while growing up. Attending trade school prepared me to become a homemaker, not a writer. I believe a writing curriculum should be mandatory in all specialized studies. Writing is an essential tool that helps us express ourselves. Words breathe life into ideas. It helps art come to life. Anything is possible with writing.

Online writing communities exist to connect writers. It's a hub for networking and permitting others to provide feedback. Is there any advice to offer new writers who join these valued platforms?

New writers should go out, learn, and listen to people discuss their writing practices.

My guidance is simple - writers become better writers through practice, practice, practice…

Become vulnerable in your writing. Your words reveal a story you’re figuring out along the way. Let those words direct your course. Learn to receive and offer feedback. 

It took a while for me to build trust in these communities. Giving feedback takes practice.

What advice can you offer writers when it comes to editing their work?

Editing is part of the writing process. If you don't like to edit then find a good editor. Make sure the editor understands your objective for writing a specific piece.

What guidance do you have for readers who have constructive criticism to share with the authors?

Constructive feedback exists in most areas of life. Ask and you shall receive. When providing feedback, make sure to treat the author as you would like to be treated when receiving feedback. You are not only critiquing words, you are critiquing a message that belongs to an owner. It's packaged with care. Handle it with care.

Anita, what themes do you feel most comfortable writing? What theme have you conquered but will not entertain again? Why?

Majority of my work focuses on fiction and social culture. Businesses and individual freelance artists hire me to help develop their growing portfolio of work. I will not entertain any health or technical related topics. It falls outside of my mental and preferential capacity. Write on topics that you enjoy unless you're open to investigative journalism.

In your opinion, is it easier for you to write as a ghostwriter, or would you rather have your name situated alongside some of the famous names you've written for?

I’m indifferent to whether my name will show up on the cover or credits. Few writers credit my pen name because they feel a duty to share the limelight. 

What two writing tips can you offer to new and existing writers in the market?

Practice. Find a time that resonates with you and find ways to write, write, write. This helps writers expand their mind and discover their style of writing. Next, consider writing on different genres to keep yourself employable in the market. Flexibility with your craft can take you far. There are many different forms of writing, from blogging to articles to magazines, to newspapers, websites, journals. Find an outlet that works for you and continue developing yourself as a writer.

All writers can benefit from taking a mental break. Anita, how do you recharge to ensure your mind is fluid when working on concurrent projects in your writing pipeline?

I love gardening. Presently I’m making space to welcome my seventh pet to join two dogs, a cat, a parrot, a hamster and a rabbit. I love spending time with my children and my grandchildren. There's plenty of loving noises that compete for my attention when I'm away from my writing.

Please share how audiences can connect with you.

Messages and inquiries can be sent to indwritersroy(at)gmail(dot)com.

#BookReads Black Cake: A Novel

 

Credit: Black Cake; Charmine Wilkerson

Overview

In present-day California, Eleanor Bennett’s death leaves behind a puzzling inheritance for her two children, Byron and Benny: a traditional Caribbean black cake, made from a family recipe with a long history, and a voice recording. In her message, Eleanor shares a tumultuous story about a headstrong young swimmer who escapes her island home under suspicion of murder. The heartbreaking tale Eleanor unfolds, the secrets she still holds back, and the mystery of a long-lost child, challenge everything the siblings thought they knew about their lineage, and themselves. Can Byron and Benny reclaim their once-close relationship, piece together Eleanor’s true history, and fulfill her final request to “share the black cake when the time is right”? Will their mother’s revelations bring them back together or leave them feeling more lost than ever?Charmaine Wilkerson’s debut novel is a story of how the inheritance of betrayals, secrets, memories, and even names, can shape relationships and history. Deeply evocative and beautifully written, Black Cake is an extraordinary journey through the life of a family changed forever by the choices of its matriarch. Credit: Kindle

Meet the Author

Charmaine Wilkerson is an American writer who has lived in Jamaica and is now based in Italy. A graduate of Barnard College and Stanford University, she is a former journalist whose award-winning short stories have appeared in various magazines and anthologies. Black Cake is her first novel. Visit Charmaine here.

Three Thousand Stitches by Sudha Murty

 

Credit: Three Thousand Stitches, 2017

Book Overview

So often, it's the simplest acts of courage that touch the lives of others. Sudha Murty - through the exceptional work of the Infosys Foundation as well as through her own youth, family life and travels-encounters many such stories . . . and she tells them here in her characteristically clear-eyed, warm-hearted way. She talks candidly about the meaningful impact of her work in the devadasi community, her trials and tribulations as the only female student in her engineering college and the unexpected and inspiring consequences of her father's kindness. From the quiet joy of discovering the reach of Indian cinema and the origins of Indian vegetables to the shallowness of judging others based on appearances, these are everyday struggles and victories, large and small. Unmasking both the beauty and ugliness of human nature, each of the real-life stories in this collection is reflective of a life lived with grace. Credit: Amazon

How 'Flower Fairies' Inspired The Harebell Shop

Credit: Sustainable Fashion with Denise Reddy

Denise, Welcome! As the Founder and CEO of the Harebell Shop, what inspired you to create a sustainable fashion entity to serve earth conscious consumers?

HI! Thank you! I am so happy to be here. Well, the journey started without really knowing I would get involved in the fashion industry. What I really knew for sure is that I wanted to help consumers purchase with values and avoid getting “scammed” by greenwashing practices. I am passionate about sharing all that I know about sustainability and “converting” people who never thought about the consequences of the way they consume into aware consumers. That makes my day! Fashion is based on trends and disposal, needless consumption. It is a really sick industry and the change will happen when conscious CEO’s and businesses get involved in it. I wanted to bring a new perspective to the industry and at the same time help my fellow Latinxs. There is so much going on in Latin America. It is so diverse, so knowledgeable and interesting that being able to represent Latinx sustainable designers in my shop is an honor.

As a fifth generation Argentinian, your anecdotes reference spending quality holiday time in the mountains of Cordoba. ​How do these experiences and memories contribute to creating the Harebell Group?

I was raised in Buenos Aires, the central city and capital of Argentina. But every holiday we went to our family home in the middle of the mountains in Cordoba. I was lucky enough to have parents who enjoyed a month off work so we grabbed our car, some stuff and headed to that beautiful, precary old mud house. We had no electricity there, only oil lamps. No hot water, only the river. No laundry machine, only our feet and a big bowl with soapy water. And so on. These summers were the best of my life and the impact of going there since I was in my mothers tummy until my teenage years, huge. When getting so close to nature at such an early age you learn to love it so deeply. It creates such an awareness! Everyone has different goggles and a personal way of understanding the world that surrounds us. For me it’s all connected and the better care we take of our surroundings, the more beautiful and fair the world is going to be. Harebell is an attempt to leave the world I want for the future generations.

How did you decide what the shop will be named?

When I was founding my company I knew I wanted a name related to plants, because they take from the earth only what they need and give back so much more creating oxygen. Somehow it always felt that’s the type of company I wanted to build. Laying in bed with my son he found a book I was reading about Flower Fairies. I had just started it and it was a Christmas gift from my grandma when I was 13 years old (a long time ago!) I had never really read it. My son found a page with a mark. It was the Harebell Flower Fairy! I read the poem and found out at that precise moment that the book had been a gift from my grandma’s grandma to her. Harebell’s name traveled through five generations and found me. I love it deeply.

Denise, how do you describe 'sustainable fashion' and how is this different from 'fast fashion'?

Sustainable clothing is the antithesis of cheaply made “fast fashion”, which I see as an often exploitative business model that negatively affects everyone from the people who create the clothes to the consumer. I hope that showing how toxic the creation of these clothes can be will lead more people to join me on my mission to have as little impact on the planet as possible, even through something as simple as what we wear.

The fashion found on Harebell’s website is anything but “cheap.” We focus on high quality and unique garments that can be loved and used for many years. There are so many aspects to why sustainable brands are more expensive, the main one being quality and fair wage. If you pay a fair wage to the person who picks the cotton from the fields, to have a two dollar shirt just makes no sense. Those brands are cheaper because someone else is paying the price.

Harebell Shop products aim to yield as little impact to the planet as possible. What are the few principles the shop honors to stay true to its mission?

We focus on many different areas, but I would say quadruple impact sustainability is the best way to describe Harebell’s values. We usually talk about triple impact companies that focus on social, environmental and financial return, but I like to add the cultural impact as well. In our journey we found that helping people and having an impact in Latin American groups was huge, and we chose to prioritize this over working locally in the US. Buying locally is a big practice in my life and for anyone environmentally aware, but when building Harebell Shop I found that helping those designers and entrepreneurs that were working so hard to leave a better world down in Latin America be able to have a voice and sales in the US market carried a heavier weight rather than working only locally. So, we went for it and I can say now that we are helping with a lot of cultural Latin American heritage as well.

How can we change peoples' perception that sustainable and earth friendly products don't mean unfashionable?

Looking at Harebell Shop’s website, LOL! I believe some of this perspective derives from the assumption that people think natural correlates with rustic or handcrafted. Of course there are rustic and handcrafted products, but that does not mean they are precry in any way. If anything, they are unique, they are preserving heritage and traditions, but sustainability is all about the way the products are curated. Also, let’s not underestimate the power of innovation in fashion. There are so many new and fascinating scientific sustainable solutions. Starting with algae fabrics or mushroom leather and following with organic non toxic coating solutions. There is a lot going on and this is definitely the future of fashion.

The Harebell Shop is a Certified B corporation. What does this mean to consumers?

B Corp is the term used for any for-profit entity that is certified by the nonprofit B Lab as voluntarily meeting higher standards of transparency, accountability, and performance. It is a very long and hard questionnaire about different sections such as wages (social), light and water consumption (environmental), inclusion (team) and so on. Having this certification proves that we comply with those strict requirements. It is a way to give an extra peace of mind to our customers. They know when purchasing from a B Corp they are supporting an honest company, with fair wages throughout, with proper garbage disposal, etc.

What makes it unique compared to other "green friendly" businesses?

Having this certification shows that we do what we say. It is a third party stating and evaluating everything we as companies do. I think it is a great added value to have and to avoid greenwashing practices.

What are some realities of fast fashion that consumers overlook when shopping for their next outfit?

“Fast fashion” is an often exploitative business model that mass-produces trendy styles at low costs. If the consumers really knew the dangers of wearing certain types of dyes on your skin, or how toxic the creation of one pair of denim jeans is, I believe they would join us in holding companies accountable. If you pay a fair wage to the person who picks the cotton from the fields, you can’t have a two dollar shirt. It just makes no sense. Those brands are cheaper because someone else is paying the price, and this is a tough reality the consumers don’t know, but once you know it it is hard to keep on purchasing fast fashion. You can’t be an accomplice anymore once you know about modern slavery practices.

How can consumers make better decisions when dressing themselves and their lifestyles?

Reading labels is a key not to fall into greenwashing. The more detailed the label is, the better. Paying attention to the raw materials is also super important. If it has a virgin plastic as a raw material it is not ok. We have so many ways of recycling and reusing that to keep on supporting the oil industry through fashion that it makes no sense. I would suggest going for sustainable, organic, natural raw materials when possible and when not recycled nylon, polyester, etc. Hemp, cotton, bambu are some of the many great options. Econyl does a great job in recycling nylon, many sustainable bathing suit brands use it. Again, there is so much going on and always more to learn! But understanding the most common greenwashing practices help the consumers understand their options.

Sustainable fashion is an investment because it justifies quality and fair wage.

​What are at least two benefits (or reasons) for consumers to invest in a sustainable wardrobe?

Peace of mind!! I love when I can invest in quality items I love that can be used for a long time. I am not a fast fashion consumer and I can not relate with people who buy without thought. We are all different, so it is really about what resonates with you. But, know that supporting sustainable brands helps support adults working for a fair, living wage (and not children or slavery conditions→ read about Bangladesh Dhaka garment factory collapse in 2013 or Garment Worker Centre fights in LA). It helps regenerate the environment with natural dyes and sustainable or recycled/ upcycled raw materials (taking away trash from our landfills. Trash that will contaminate the waters future generations will drink. AKA your children.) I could go on and on, but the main thing is as our slogan says Play Your Part! Every small action is a big wave if we all do it!

The Harebell brand hosts compostable collections that serve different consumer interests. ​What are comas and boobamaras?  Well, we divide our brands in 3 categories: sustainable (natural and organic raw materials), recycled (plastics, Tetra Pack and more) and upcycled (defective fast fashion pieces or old, end of roll fabrics). Comas is a Brazilian upcycling brand. It is one of my favourites because of the creativity it’s designer has into making high quality, amazing looking denim pieces. My favorite is the Esher Dress that has two defective denim dress shirts stitched together. It is amazing!  Boobamara is an argentinean brand that specializes in vegan shoes (some of them are compostable too!) Argentina is a meat country and we have a very old leather tradition. It is great to support our old leather shoe making craft and upgrade it to a new and compassionate raw material use. All of Boobamara’s shoes are PETA certified which I personally love.

As an immigrant entrepreneur celebrating Latinx culture in the United States, how has your personal growth evolved since your first year in the country?

The climb from immigrant to CEO was challenging, including learning a new language and becoming accustomed to a new culture. A culture that isn’t always as friendly to newcomers as it should be. I feel that my immigration journey has strengthened me and made me a better business leader. It is hard to really know how others feel unless you can relate to those feelings based on your own experiences. That is why getting exposed to diversity is a key for being an honest and compassionate boss and business owner. I feel a confidence I’ve never felt before. Harebell opened a gate for me to be my better version and apply my life’s learnings into a company. I am super grateful to have a wonderful team and a very supportive family.

Is there any business lesson you've learned (in the United States or abroad) that has shaped how you view the world today?

Sure, I keep on learning all the time. I am open and receptive to new experiences that can help me and my business grow. I think the hardest thing I learned was to do business more intuitively, trusting your heart more than your mind. The internal talk needs work, feeling deserving, abundant, and learning to see money positively. There were many barriers to break. Usually when becoming a business founder there is a very close relationship between your own personal growth and your business’s.  

Denise, you reference strong and inspirational women in your family that contribute to your resilient & creative presence.  What have these women taught you about life, love and fashion?

In the old days, the role of many women was to be their husbands shadow, always behind men. Many times the only career possible was as an assistant or typewriter. Both of my grandmas would have been awesome at pursuing their own careers, but it was not possible back then. I feel encouraged to move forward and pursue my dreams (and theirs). It is my mission and it empowers me every day. Regarding love, it is hard to find a partner that supports our CEO's life. When I am home I love to play with my son and share quality time together. But being a business woman implies I am not available for home chores and therefore we need to split the work with whoever we live with or hire help if needed. For some men, this is really hard because it is not the “traditional” family structure they learned at home. It actually goes against the “being a good mom/ housewife” stereotype…

When looking at fashion, I am a sensitive soul. I have my grandma's garments that were upcycled into newer, trendier and unique outfits I love. Those special pieces are the best for me. I see fashion as an opportunity to feel better and that is what life is about: learning how to be happy and daring to do so.

How do you nurture your spirituality while balancing the roles you hold from business woman, wife, mother and creator?

Prioritizing myself and those moments that give me joy. Making time to relax and reset. I believe that the more aligned you are as a leader, the better your business will thrive. I keep on working on myself, on my personal growth. I am constantly changing, transmuting and I dare to be as happy as I can be. If I need to say no, I just say it.. No guilt or toxic feelings implied. It took a lot to learn this, but I am very confident now and know that the higher my vibration is, the better for everyone. It is a constant thing, every minute of every day. Learning to check on yourself and taking action when necessary takes practice, but is a great way to live life to its fullest.  

As a parent, what guidance do you have for other parents wanting to teach their children earth-friendly lifestyle habits?

Start small and add up as they grow. Leed with the example. Sometimes it is not about perfection, but about doing what you can at that moment. And that is a lot! Flexibility is the key. Separating garbage is a great start, using rechargeable batteries too! They have fun at any age seeing an electronic device getting charged. There are companies that send you composters in exchange for your food scraps which they then convert into compost. Get creative in ways to get them involved and understand circularity. Everything we do (or don't do) has a consequence. And that is a great lesson we as parents can teach them.

What new and exciting projects is Harebell working on that audiences can follow into the New Year?  

We just launched today our compostable underwear which is a great step, because there are no-elastics in our products. There is no other underwear option out there that has no elastics. We handcrafted our underwear manually, with a lot of love and detail. The raw materials are bamboo which is super fresh and soft and organic cotton. We couldn’t be more proud of our Osun Collection- Harebell by Wunjo Intimates. 2022 will be an exciting year because we are launching our Play Your Part Campaign to support 2 different organizations through the customer’s purchase and our Harebell Homes section in our Shop. We will be participating in many different runways all throughout the country. Keep tuned to our social media and newsletter to know everything we are working on!

Please share with readers where they can support your works. 

You can follow us on Instagram @harebell.shop and @thedenisereddy.
Facebook @harebellshop.
And they can subscribe to our Newsletter here to be the first ones to know any launches and promotions.
We also share sustainable information and tips. ;)
Website: The Harebell Shop

Author Phil Robertson on America

 

Credit: Phil Robertson

Overview

It’s time to take back what the devil has stolen and put God back into our culture. The Theft of America’s Soul is a prophetic wake-up call for all who desire to see our nation thrive, challenging readers to exchange these ten lies for truths that will bring peace of mind, harmony, and prosperity back to our country—an invitation to experience the life-giving, peace-filling, wholly-transforming love of God. Phil Robertson, patriarch of A&E’s Duck Dynasty and one of the most recognized voices of conservative Christianity in America, believes that little by little, generation by generation, America has allowed the lines of morality, decency, and virtue to be erased. Our values have disappeared as we began to believe lies—such as that God is dead, truth is relative, and unity is impossible—that have brought discord, division and protest. But Phil also believes that things can change.

Meet the Author

Phil Robertson, the founder and co-owner of the Duck Commander Company, is a professional hunter, successful businessman, and the popular star of A&E’s reality television series Duck Dynasty. He is also the host of the new subscription television series In the Woods with Phil on CRTV.com. He authored two New York Times bestselling books, Happy, Happy, Happy and UnPHILtered. He and his wife, Kay, live in West Monroe, Louisiana. Together, they have four grown sons and daughters-in-law, sixteen grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Credit: Phil Robertson

Author Priya Parker on Meaningful Connections

Author Priya Parker shares tools for creating meaningful connections with friends, family and coworkers during the coronavirus pandemic -- and shows how we can take advantage of gatherings that are unique to this moment of social distancing. "We don't necessarily need to gather more," she says. "We need to gather better." (This virtual conversation is part of the TED Connects series, hosted by head of TED Chris Anderson and current affairs curator Whitney Pennington Rodgers. Recorded March 27, 2020) / Credit: TED / Book Reference Below: Amazon

Credit: The Art of Gathering
Amazon

Meet Danielle Chiel, Entrepreneur and Author

#ComingSoon

Entrepreneur and Author Danielle Chiel Joins Sasha on Moving Mountains.

Learn how the inception of KOCO & The Artisan Nation is driving change in India.

Credit: The Artisan Nation

Credit: KOCO, Knit One (garment) Change One (life)

Credit: The Artisan Nation

Meet James Aiello, Author of Christina Powers

Welcome James! As the founder of James Aiello Productions, what have you learned about entrepreneurship while also nurturing your successful writing career? Among your few professions which include you working as a registered nurse, how have these various roles groomed you to become the writer you are today?

I have learned that starting your own publishing company is a difficult thing to do, but it can be done.  First you need to create a business plan, then Incorporate the business.  Next it is creating a dynamic web page and then begin an advertising program to promote your new business and website.  Google advertising is a great way to start.  Once you finally have things running smoothly it is extremely exciting.  Creating my own publishing company has also help me to publish my own novels and taken the stress off that comes with trying to find an agent to represent you or finding one of the larger publishing company to take an unknown author on.  Selling novels in today’s market is exceedingly difficult and that is why a good advertising campaign is the key to a successful writing career.  I also have worked as a registered nurse for most of my career and learning to document on medical charts has helped me immensely with my writing skills. (Photo Credit: James Aiello)

Your successful writing career emanates from personal trials which include your beloved Michael's passing as well yourself overcoming thyroid cancer. Please share the inspiring story with audiences that initially empowered you to embrace your passion for writing. Also how have these experiences influenced your perspective on living a wholesome life?

I always dreamed of becoming a published author, but a busy life with a full-time nursing career, raising a child with my partner Michael, caring for family members and being active in the local food bank, never allowed me that opportunity.  All that changed in one year with the deaths of three of my beloved family members including my partner of 24 years Michael.  It was the pain of that loss which I had to escape in order to survive and I hid in my writing.  My writing was also the catalyst which brought me to a higher awareness of my own spirituality, and I believe allowed me to channel the energy needed to write my first novel “Forbidden Child”.   Shortly after the publishing of Forbidden Child I had another hurdle to leap over, I was diagnosed with Thyroid cancer which stopped me from going on a national book tour which I had set up. I had to have a thyroidectomy and after a short recover time I was able to begin the book tour.   This was a setback, but I was not fearful.  Death no longer scared me. The awakening to my own spiritual guides has heightened my awareness that we are all connected and that much more needs to be done to save our environment for our children’s futures. 

Being raised near the Hudson Valley in NY, what experiences from your upbringing made you curious to explore the notion of a love child between former President John F. Kennedy and his alleged mistress Marilyn Monroe? As a twelve year old, did you share such curiosities with others around you? If so, what were their reactions and responses to your creative musings?

I was 12 years old when a thought came to me and I wondered what a child of JFK and Marilyn Monroe would be like.  I remember seeing a documentary on JFK and Marilyn Monroe and the way she was dressed when she sang happy birthday to him at his birthday party at Madison Square Garden on May 19th, 1962.  I never told anyone what I was thinking, but that thought stayed with me for years.  And when I begin to write my first novel, “Forbidden Child” that was the question I had to answer.

As the author of the "Forbidden Child" trilogy, what lessons did you learn about writing a fiction story during the first book? Are there any writing techniques and tips that new authors can benefit from? What part of crafting the story did you find to be the most challenging? And the most emotionally satisfying?

While writing my first novel I learned to let my imagination go wild.  I needed to become each character, to feel their love for each other, their passion for life, their desire for revenge and their ultimate awakening to what really matters in life.  Then and only then could I convey that to my readers.   The most challenging to my writing was finding my sweet place to create.  For me I found it many nights driving around at 2 am with a recorder in my hand.  The most emotionally satisfying was the spiritual connection I felt with my higher power as the story unfolded.

When writing the "Forbidden Child" series, were any of the characters in the story inspired by real life personalities? What professional guidance do you have for authors aspiring to write a series versus a stand alone book/story? 

In writing the Forbidden Child series I was very inspired by the real lives of Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Tayler. Both women survived and flourished in a time that was considered a man’s world and they used everything they had and every trick up their sleeves to do so.  Marilyn Monroe was a great actress, model, and singer.  Known as the blonde bombshell and became the most popular sex symbol of the 1950s and early 60s and was emblematic of the era’s changing attitudes towards sexuality.  She overcame a difficult childhood and the Hollywood elites who tried to destroy her career to become an American Icon.  Elizabeth Taylor was a child prodigy who became a great actress, businesswoman and humanitarian.  I tried to mold Christina Powers after them both. The reason I wrote Forbidden Child as a series was because I was hoping to create a following and I felt if I released the entire story in one novel it would be over in one reading and I did not want that for my readers until I was ready to complete the entire story in one novel.  If you are aspiring to write a series then please create a plot that continues to climb, reach a cliffhanger like a musical crescendo and then leave them hanging for more.  And in the next novel give them more.

Credit: Christina Powers American Goddess

In the book "Christina Powers", the story celebrates a woman as an independent beauty in a leadership role. Who are the women in your life that have taught you about the graces of women contributing to society in multi-faceted roles? What are the top two virtues of the protagonist Christina Powers? What are her top two vices?

The gift of my protagonist, Christina Powers came from growing up in a household with strong independent women.  My mom ran our Italian family style restaurant, and my two older sisters worked all day beside her and then would train and race our family harness horses in the evenings better than any of the guys in the paddock.  They taught me to love and respect the strengths of women.  This is why Christina’s top virtues are her determination to overcome any obstacle and her ability to fight for unconditional love towards all creation.  I would say her top two vices where her temporary addiction to cocaine and her almost seemly blinding drive for revenge.  But even these become learning experiences which make her a better person in the end.

Christina Powers endures all sorts of emotions, including pain and suffering, during her rise to power. When conceiving Christina's character, did you implement any personal lessons learned of grief and suffering to devise a realistic character in a fiction story?  

All the pain, suffering, loves and losses Christina must learn to survive in this story have come directly from what I have learned in my personal experiences of life’s pain, life’s losses, and life’s loves.  This was the only way I could bring this fictional character to life in a real honest way.

At what point in your writing career, did you comfortably embrace that you've evolved into a seasoned writer? What benchmarks do you aspire to achieve as a writer today compared to when you started out several years ago?

I did not feel I was a seasoned writer until I had completed my second novel in the Forbidden Child series “Forbidden Child Secrets Revealed”.  That is when I truly felt that I had become a seasoned writer.  I am sure it was because I realized the power and passion of the love story woven in that novel was exactly what a character as strong as Christina Powers needed.  It is a love story that one day should be proclaimed a masterpiece in the literary industry.  When I first started writing I just hoped to be recognized as a creative writer and now my goal is to see my work come to life on film.

As a celebrated professional and father, what have you taught your son Tyler about unconditional love? How are you able to weave the concept of respect and love into the characters you create for entertainment purposes?

I pride myself in the knowledge that my son, Tyler has grown into a man who can accept others for who they are without negativity or judgment.  He understands people are different and has learned to express unconditional love for others even in the hardest times.  I feel that the love and respect my characters show through my writing for entertainment purposes is my attempt to enlighten my readers in the possibility that all things are possible when people come together for the common good.

James, are there any books from your childhood that resonate with you to this day? Is there a character or a timeless theme that you hold dear in your heart and why?

As a child the first time I read “The Lion the witch and the wardrobe” by C.J Lewis I became fascinated.  The theme of good vs evil, betrayal and forgiveness, courage and transformation became a seed planted within my soul a long time ago.  The ultimate lesson I took away from that story was Love for all life can overcomes any hateful obstacle that tries to stand in its way.  

If "Forbidden Child" was chosen to be made into an entertainment film, who would you choose to play the main characters? Are there any personalities, from the past and/or present, that you would like to audition for "Christina Powers"?

I would love to see Megan Fox play Christina Powers, so much so that I have started a petition campaign asking her to review Christina Powers American Goddess.  My hope is that she will bring Christina to life on the big screen.  I believe in my heart that if I could only get her to read the novel, she would realize that she is the perfect actress for this part.

​James, when you feel the need for inspiration, what do you do? Do you have a favorite song, quote or activity that elevates your mind and soul to continue creating new chapters of your life?

I find my creative inspiration is the strongest at 2 am when I walk alone in a quite tranquil place just looking up at the stars.  I have learned that the heavens and connecting with my higher power is where my stream of creativity flows from.  

Please share with audiences how they can support your work.

Website: www.forbiddenchild.com

Facebook: @ForbiddenChildBook

Twitter: @ForbiddenChild_

Worldly Insights by Larry Taunton

Credit: Larry Alex Taunton

Larry, Welcome to Authors by Sasha. 

You're a celebrated award-winning author, freelance columnist, and producer among several roles you host. If you have to choose between writing more books or producing more speaking engagements, which one would you choose and why?

Thank you, Sasha. I love writing. The speaking engagements are popular, but they are best, in my view, when they are an outgrowth of something that I have written.

Fixed Point Foundation publicly defends Christianity by empowering Christians and challenging skeptics. The foundation invests its resources in speakers, hosting events and sharing faith based material. What led to the inception of this respectable organization that is recognized as a fair and sensible platform for exploring faith from different perspectives while maintaining the integrity of Christianity?

I cut my teeth in an academic setting. There, as now in the public space, there was very little room for real, fair, sustained dialogue. It was hard to hear ideas as those presenting them were marginalized and their ideas politicized. We needed a space for the development of ideas, for conversation, to “reason together,” to use a biblical phrase. Thus, Fixed Point was born. In recent weeks as I and many other Americans have grown frustrated with presidential and vice presidential debates where the moderators confuse their role with that of participants, I have again wondered if Fixed Point doesn’t need to facilitate these kinds of discussions once again.

You've also participated in faith based debates with Christopher Hitchens (God or No God?) and Michael Shermer (Do We Need God?). Have any of your views evolved on any lifestyle or religious topics during your career from engaging in at least twenty debates of such nature? Have you encountered any surprising epiphanies about yourself in the process?

I’ve always been a bit rougher around the edges than the typical evangelical. I grew up on military bases and around rough men, so I’ve never neatly fit the evangelical mold that some want to apply to me. That said, I am less legalistic than I once was. Legalism is a product of the human heart, not religion, and it is at its worst, I think, in our youth. Perhaps age and experience have mellowed me a bit or maybe it is the result of my own mistakes. Regardless, I have come to appreciate the heart of the Christian message more in recent years.

In terms of my debates with atheists, they have largely been disappointing. Even the brightest of them rely on old arguments that are simply repackaged for a new generation. Perhaps my greatest epiphany has been a rather cynical one: contrary to what I believed when I first entered the public arena, truth seldom matters. That was naive.  

Your book "The Grace Effect" is inspired by your adopted daughter Sasha's life story in Ukraine. How did you two cross paths?  How soon did you recognize Sasha was meant to be a part of your life? What has she taught you about life, faith and fatherhood?

I did not meet Sasha until her adoption was well underway. My wife and my three boys participated in a mission trip to bring relief to children languishing in Ukrainian orphanages. There they met Sasha who, as an HIV-positive child, had little hope of being adopted. Lauri proposed we adopt her. We did. She had a huge influence on us all in many ways, not the least of which was the fact that I grew up in a family of boys and had all boys. When Sasha, with all of her girliness, entered our household, it was … an adjustment! But her life, her suffering, her perspective, is much needed in a country were so many see themselves as victims when they aren’t. Not really. By contrast, Sasha has known suffering on a scale that beggars the imagination. That continues to shape my perspective.

The book "The Faith of Christopher Hitchens" presents insights into Christopher's personal beliefs throughout different milestones of his life. If your friend Christopher can hear you from the other side (granted 'life after death' exists), what would you like him to know about the global state of affairs today? Is there anything you would ask Christopher about since he's already on the other side? 

I would tell him that he’s needed! America, his adopted country, is committing suicide, and I am quite confident that he would savage a Democratic Party that has changed so radically in the decade since his death. In his final years, he had become an American patriot, and he grew to detest the anti-Americanism that has come to characterize the Left.

Credit: Larry Alex Taunton

"Around the World in More than 80 Days" explores what makes America great among 195 countries in the world.  You've visited at least 55 of these countries throughout your life's journey. What benchmarks were applied to narrow down the list of countries that you would visit and research for this specific book?

I was in search of a winner for a mythical prize: The World’s Greatest Country. When making a list of those countries that have some reasonable claim to that prize, the list is small. No more than ten countries would make most lists. I included all of those that most would put on such a list, and most of those are there for entirely statistical reasons: wealth, availability of healthcare, clean water, etc. Is that a legitimate measure of greatness or only a component of it? I would explore that question on the journey.

Then, to season the narrative and give the reader a broader perspective, I included another dozen or so countries. And why not? According to the data, 69 percent of Americans have never been abroad. I would wager that most of the other 31 percent have only been to, say, Mexico, Canada, or on a Caribbean cruise. The point is, most have no means of properly evaluating a claim like that made by the New York Times last year in the headline: “America is not great.” The world disagrees.

From your research and travels, which country impressed you in how they invest their resources (human capital and money) to operate a self-sufficient economy without relying much on their neighboring countries or global organizations for assistance?

Oh, my. That’s a tough one. It is cliché to say so, but the world is deeply interconnected. Japan, for instance, a very impressive country for many reasons, has almost no natural resources. Africa, with its vast natural resources, is dependent upon the rest of the world to access them. South America is generally dominated by corrupt regimes. The United States would have to be near the top of this list, I think, along with Canada, and the democracies of Western Europe. But I speculate here. This was not a question I explored for this project.

Larry, what are the top three travel essentials you cannot live without? 

I discuss this in the book. Indeed, I could write a book about this topic.

Top three essentials (assuming food, passport, airline ticket, and accommodations are all included):

1. The savvy travel takes twice as much money (cash) as he thinks he will need.

2. A global phone. That gives you access to maps, up-to-date news on the political situation, transportation, first aid, and much more.

3. Attitude. Go expecting nothing to go as planned. Frankly, that’s when the fun begins, forcing you to extemporize, take chances, and get outside of your comfort zone. I have learned that you don’t know someone until you have traveled with them, and even then you don’t really know them until that travel brings some measure of stress, be it in the form of fatigue, danger, or uncertainty. A travel companion who is prepared to roll with the punches is a treasure. One who isn’t becomes a burden and perhaps even hazard to your safety. Real adventurous international travel—as distinct from traveling the safety of a tour group—is not for “Karens.”

What packing tips can you provide to those traveling on a budget and/or time constraints?

Packing tips:

- Get the Around the World ticket. Most airlines have one and they are the most efficient way to see the world.

- If you adhere to no. 1 above, you can afford to pack less. Don’t be afraid to buy things along the way or dump others as they are no longer needed. Move light and fast.

- Be flexible. A rigid schedule is a recipe for misery if not disaster. Like a place? Stay longer. Hate another? Move on. Don’t feel that everything has to be your way. Be willing to do things differently as the situation requires.

- An up-to-date knowledge of where he is going and how to get out quickly (if necessary)

- Don’t make the often disastrous mistake that so many naive Americans make: believing the rest of the world is a safe place where people think like you. It isn’t and they don’t.

As a freelance columnist, are there any redundant topics that you believe need to be retired in the news and media? 

Good question. Yes, the stereotyping — which is quite bigoted — of evangelicals and so-called “red state” Americans.

In your opinion, has the quality of journalism improved in the past decade, or has it stagnated due to society's need to produce 'fast food news' to appease hungry minds seeking quantity over quality? 

I could never have imagined it so bad as the current situation. MSM and Big Tech, rather than reporting news and facilitating it, have become active participants in a cultural war, suppressing dissent and spinning news to fit a political agenda. It is atrocious. Where are the Ted Koppels and the Tom Brokaws? Gone, I am afraid.

What guidance would you offer to a student pursuing a career in journalism today?

Don’t — unless you are prepared to sell your soul.

You've taken many risks in life as well overcome hurdles in your path with grace. Do you believe you're living on borrowed time? What new adventures do you want to share with your family, advocates and audiences moving forward?

Another interesting question. Yes, I do believe I am on borrowed time. I suffered a life-altering accident five years ago when I was hit by a car while cycling. I was not expected to live. There are many residual physical issues from that accident. It changed me to this extent: I don’t hold my life quite so dear. I was declared dead on the scene of that accident and was then revived. I am reconciled to my mortality. I am prepared to die. Thus, I am prepared to take risks. Not silly ones, mind you (though my wife would dispute that), but worthwhile risks. There is something liberating in that approach to life.

 Please share with audiences how they can support your work.

Send money!! Buy my books!! ;)

Website: www.larryalextaunton.com |  About Larry |  Amazon: Profile & Books |  Twitter: @LarryTaunton

Credit: Amazon Snapshot, Books by Larry Taunton