Meet Jodie Anders | Writer & Graphic Artist

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

Hi JODIE, what habits do you feel helped you succeed?
I was diagnosed with ADHD in 5th grade. At the time, I rejected medication and was not provided with coping mechanisms, so I struggled with the challenges associated with ADHD, often failing classes or giving up on interests. In college I developed a scheduling habit that made a huge difference, propelling me to an honors level student. However, it was only recently that I truly delved into understanding exactly what ADHD is – especially in regards to executive function and entertaining my brain/dopamine levels which went beyond the focus struggles and hyperactivity I initially understood.

The first habit I developed during college, which I still use it to this day, is task scheduling. I list everything I need to do as soon it pops into my brain, then once a week I arrange these in my calendar. I have since learned the value of preparing or starting tasks to minimize resistance. For example, I prepare for the next day the night before, which helps take the pressure off decision making and motivation when I am trying to get going in the morning. I lay out my outfit, open my writing program to where I plan to start, and ensure any necessary information I need such as links, or phone numbers are added to my to-do list. Then, the next day after I wake, I open my list and follow it. It helps me keep it together and be productive. I also give myself artificial deadlines for step-by-step goals and review goals on the first of every month to ensure I’m not overloaded and that I am working towards what I want to.

These are the primary habits that aid in my success, but I’m constantly experimenting with new ADHD, creativity, and productivity tools to further my productivity and overcome struggles.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I really believe we often overlook the many ways we are both different and similar that makes life beautiful. Through my writing, I enjoy exploring how these differences affect human interaction and too often stem from negativity, fear, and lack of understanding in an effort to see how connections can be forged across these differences.
To this end, I enjoy writing stories that bridge divided characters or people by highlighting the beauty of diversity and the power of working together. I dream of a world that can respect and embrace all differences.

I believe this passion and the fascination of human interaction drove me to write from an early age. I wrote my first (terrible) novel in middle school. My father, an aspiring songwriter, also instilled in me a huge appreciation of music. Poetry became my first diary, and a way to share my loneliness in coded words. I began to dream of a career as a singer or novelist at the encourement of a teacher. Sadly, during middle school and high school, I let the negative opinions of others steer me away from these dreams. But my struggles with ADHD and therefore math led me to back to a creative pursuit of graphic arts and film degrees. I reasoned that I could make a living in those, but still didn’t believe I was good enough to be a singer or writer. Somehow, I mistakenly believed those were talents you were born with rather than developed.
After a long detour in post-production, a wonderful author told me it wasn’t too late to pursue my dreams and encouraged me to return to writing, even at 15 minutes a day (thank you, Carole!) I enrolled in a weekend writing course, and later in the UCLA Extension screenwriting program. I continue still to take workshops to inspire me and keep focused on my goals. The journey hasn’t always been easy, especially with ADHD and anxiety, but this inspiration, setting goals and utilizing effective tools help me stay motivated.
I’ve also learned the value of having supportive friends and family, accountability buddies to work alongside you, and kind mentors who are generous with their time and advice. I am so very grateful and blessed! I have also learned it’s important to keep learning about myself, how my brain works, and what tools might work best. I encourage anyone working on a goal to talk to others and search the internet for different ways to overcome your challenges. You may reap the rewards in sanity and reclaimed time. I know I am grateful for doing so, and for all those who supported me in my journey.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I absolutely love showing visitors California! I have hosted writers, friends, and family from the city next door to far-off countries.
I tend to plan days in themes such as nature, Hollywood, L.A. history, and iconic sites.
First, I’d stop at Randy’s Donuts after picking guests up at LAX. They usually recognize the giant donut from media and appreciate the yummy hazelnut donut. If they’re not from the west coast, I’d probably take them to In & Out, too – a quick, tasty dinner and popular request.

Day 1: The history of LA. LA has an impressive history that is rarely highlighted outside of the studio system. One of my favorite historical tidbits is that California’s first gold nugget was discovered in the nearby subburb of Santa Clarita. I like to highlight the history of LA starting with breakfast and exploring at the Farmer’s Market near The Grove, a trip on the 1901 built tram called Angel’s flight, lunch at the Grand Central Market (first opened 1917), a drive down Broadway to see the old theatre buildings, a visit to the Biltmore hotel (a beautiful hotel where several Oscars were held from 1931 to 1942), and finish off with dinner at the Clifton Cafe. Then, drive through the old Hollywoodland gates and get up close to the Hollywood sign. They’ll want a photo!

Day 2: Classic Hollywood History: We’d start with a drive by the Roosevelt Hotel, where the first Oscars were held, Paramount Pictures, and the Jim Henderson Studious. Then we’d stop at the Chinese theatre, stroll down the Walk of Stars, and have lunch at Mel’s diner. Then I’d take them on a drive to some famous film sites such as the Addams Family house, the Charmed house, and Marty McFly’s house, which was only a few blocks away from where I grew up. I’d add a movie at the Hollywood Forever cemetery if it’s summertime.

Day 3: The Diverse Culture of LA: Walk down Olvera Street (and try the best taquitos ever), then visit Chinatown and the Thien Hau Temple. Then, drive through the various cultural areas such as Historic Filipinotown, Koreatown, Little Bangladesh, Little Armenia, Thai Town, etc., drive by the arts district murals, and then perhaps a visit to a Korean spa or private karaoke room.

Day 4: You’ve got to have a day at Disneyland!!

Day 5: Are you exhausted yet? It’s time to relax and head to Leo Carillo or El Matador State Beach – two of the most beautiful in the area in my opinion! Start with a drive through Topanga Canyon, where you can see quirky things like the Great Wall of Topanga and beautiful lush scenery that will make you forget you’re even in LA, and make sure to include a little bit of a drive down Pacific Coast Hwy. End the day with dinner at Paradise Cove.

Day 6: Let’s keep the beach theme going! Santa Monica and Venice Beach to check out the Venice Canals and a totally different beach vibe. End the day at the Santa Monica Pier and 3rd Street Promenade for great food and a ferris wheel ride with incredible views. Depending on time, we could also check out the views from the Palos Verdes.

Day 7: Last day, and there is still so much I want to show them! But let’s end the day with a bang. We’ll check out the Griffith Observatory, walk through Universal Citywalk, and then catch a concert and fireworks at the Hollywood Bowl.

I have an extended tour I love to show guests from up North in the Redwoods to South in San Diego, but that would take a bit longer! There really is a lot to see out there in the world.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I am eternally grateful to my Mom, who has been a big supporter of mine. There are times we joke and call her my assistant! She is always ready to lend a hand with the house, make phone calls, or help in anyway she can. When I am stressed to the max and forget to take out the trash, Mom comes to the rescue! Plus, feeds my two adorable kitties while I am away and surprises me with delicious home cooked food.

Website: https://www.jodieanders.com

Instagram: @JodieLeaAnders

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodieanders/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JodieLeaAnders

Other: IMDB: imdb.me/JodieAnders
Our books website: www.QueerCheerBook.com