You’ve transitioned from journalism to corporate PR and now to bestselling author and speaker — what inspired each of those pivots?
Each phase of my career has been a natural progression driven by a desire to connect and communicate effectively. Journalism taught me the power of storytelling and the importance of truth. Transitioning to corporate PR allowed me to shape narratives and build brands. Becoming an author and speaker was a culmination of these experiences, enabling me to share insights and inspire others on a broader scale.
What life experience or moment sparked the idea for your book When in Doubt, Delete It!?
The idea for When in Doubt, Delete It! was born during a quiet moment on my couch. I was editing a newsletter and literally using the “delete” mark cleaning up cluttered copy and applying those little editing marks we all know so well. That simple act sparked a thought: what if we could apply these same edits to our lives? That’s when the concept really clicked. I started reflecting on my own experiences through career transitions, personal setbacks, successes, and the everyday chaos we all navigate and I realized so many of those moments could be sorted into “edit,” “delete,” or “move” categories. It became a metaphor for living with intention, clarity, and courage. The book became a way to help others rewrite their own stories in a way that leads to more peace and purpose.
How do your Southern roots influence your communication style and approach to storytelling?
Growing up in the South, storytelling is woven into the fabric of our culture. There’s an emphasis on warmth, hospitality, and vivid narratives. These elements have deeply influenced my writing style, making it relatable and engaging.
Your books are known for blending practical wisdom with humor. How do you strike that balance so effectively?
I’ve found that people absorb lessons better when they’re laughing along the way. Humor disarms, opens minds, and makes tough topics feel more manageable. I never shy away from making fun of myself. I’ve made plenty of mistakes, and I believe sharing those missteps with honesty and humor makes me more relatable. When readers see someone who isn’t afraid to own their journey, flaws and all, it builds trust. The authenticity comes through, and that’s what people connect with. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being real while offering something useful they can take with them.
“Successfully Ever After” sounds like a powerful transformation program. What makes it different from other career/professional branding coaching services?
“Successfully Ever After” is unique because it combines personal branding with storytelling techniques. I focus on helping clients craft their narratives authentically, ensuring they stand out in their professional journeys.
Your book, Get Noticed, Get Hired, highlights how much the job market has changed—what do you think is the single biggest mindset shift job seekers need to make today?
Job seekers need to view themselves as brands. It’s essential to communicate one’s value proposition clearly and consistently across platforms. Embracing this mindset can significantly enhance visibility and opportunities.
The friendship between Susie and Angie is central to the Case of the Missing Sneakers story. How did you go about writing a friendship that feels so real and relatable?
I drew inspiration from real-life friendships, focusing on the nuances, shared experiences, and challenges that strengthen bonds. By highlighting authentic interactions and emotions, the friendship between Susie and Angie resonates with readers.
What message or takeaway do you hope young readers walk away with after reading The Case of the Vanishing Birthday Presents?
I hope young readers walk away with a deeper understanding of curiosity, compassion, and connection. While the mystery drives the plot, the real heart of the story is about paying attention, not just to clues, but to people. One important message is the value of learning what’s going on in each person’s life. You may never know what someone is going through or how it’s affecting their behavior or decisions unless you take the time to connect. It’s a reminder that solving problems, whether in a mystery or in life, often starts with empathy and a willingness to look beneath the surface.
What are some of the “life edits” from When in Doubt, Delete It! that you personally return to again and again?
Two edits I return to most often are: delete negative self-talk and insert celebration.
Deleting negative self-talk is a game-changer. What we say to ourselves is powerful—far more than we realize. And often, the way we talk to ourselves is harsher than we’d ever allow someone else to speak to us. I’ve learned to catch those thoughts and reframe them with compassion and truth.
The second is inserting celebration. We move so quickly from one project to the next that we rarely pause to reflect on what went well. I make it a habit to stop and acknowledge even the small wins. It’s in those moments of reflection that we learn what worked, what we want to repeat, and where we’ve truly grown. It’s not just about moving forward, it’s about recognizing how far we’ve come.
As someone who’s received national recognition in PR, what do you believe is the most underrated skill in the communications field today?
Active listening is often underrated. In a world saturated with messages, truly understanding and empathizing with your audience can set communicators apart.
What motivated you to write Culture Secrets, and how can companies use it to become truly irresistible to talent?
Culture Secrets came from a deeply personal place. I once worked for a boss who made me feel invisible. Despite years of award-winning work and measurable success, I began to feel unseen, unheard, and unvalued. And showing up in an environment like that day after day takes a toll, not just on performance, but emotionally and physically, too.
I wrote Culture Secrets because I’ve lived the consequences of poor leadership and toxic culture and I knew it didn’t have to be that way. I wanted to give leaders a playbook for building workplaces where people feel like they matter, where their voices are heard, and where their contributions are genuinely appreciated. When companies get culture right, they don’t have to chase talent, talent comes to them and stays. This book is about helping organizations become the kind of place no one wants to leave.
What advice would you give to a young reader who wants to start solving mysteries in their own neighborhood?
Stay curious and observant. Ask questions, take notes, and always seek the truth. Remember, every great detective started with a keen eye and a thirst for knowledge.
What’s been your biggest personal or professional challenge — and what “edit” helped you overcome it?
Overcoming self-doubt was a significant challenge. The “edit” that helped was reframing negative thoughts and focusing on past successes to build confidence.
How do you define “success” today, and has that definition changed throughout your career?
Today, success means making a positive impact and finding fulfillment in what I do. Earlier in my career, it was more about titles and achievements. The shift reflects a deeper understanding of personal values and purpose.
How has your experience been with AllAuthor?
AllAuthor has been an invaluable platform, providing tools and exposure that have significantly enhanced my book promotions and author visibility. Their supportive community and resources have made a difference in my journey.
