Meet Chris Epting | Author, storyteller

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

Hi Chris, why did you pursue a creative career?
As a young child, I was drawn to artistic and creative pursuits, and writing became my outlet for self-expression. It felt like a natural extension of who I was—an inherent part of my identity. While other kids may have excelled in sports or academics, I found solace and joy in the act of creating with words.

Writing provided me with a sense of freedom and possibility. It allowed me to explore different worlds, create characters, and convey my thoughts and emotions in a way that felt authentic to me. It was a form of communication where I felt most comfortable and confident.

As I grew older, I realized that my passion for writing was not just a fleeting interest but a calling that I couldn’t ignore. It became clear to me that pursuing an artistic and creative career was not just a choice but a necessity. It was the path that resonated with me the most and offered me a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

While some people may have a variety of skill sets and talents, I found that my strengths and passions were most aligned with the realm of creativity. I lacked the confidence and conviction in other areas to envision a career or livelihood that would bring me the same level of joy and satisfaction.

In a way, it felt like my creative path chose me rather than the other way around. It was a deep-seated instinct that guided me towards a life of artistic expression. And despite any doubts or uncertainties along the way, I knew that I had to follow this path and explore the possibilities that awaited me.

So, for me, pursuing an artistic and creative career was not a conscious decision but a natural progression of who I am. Writing became my chosen medium, my voice, and my means of connecting with the world. It has allowed me to share my stories, touch people’s lives, and make a meaningful contribution through my craft.

Ultimately, I believe that when we embrace our true calling, the one that resonates with our core being, we find a sense of purpose and fulfillment that can’t be replicated by any other pursuit. And for me, that calling was the world of artistic and creative expression, particularly through writing.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
When it comes to my art, what I am most proud of is the body of work I have created over the years. Having written around 50 books in my life, each one holds its own significance, but there are certain titles that truly stand out. In particular, I take great pride in the books I have written about the local history of Huntington Beach. Living in this vibrant community has had a profound impact on my life, and being able to capture its essence through my writing is a source of immense satisfaction and joy.

Another aspect of my artistic journey that fills me with excitement is the upcoming release of a book I wrote about the writing process and the art of storytelling. Collaborating with others on their memoirs has been a deeply rewarding experience, and this book represents a culmination of my knowledge and passion for helping others share their stories. I am thrilled to know that it will soon be available to inspire and guide aspiring writers and storytellers.

Getting to where I am today has been a journey of dedication, perseverance, and continuous growth. I have learned that in order to thrive in a creative-driven field, one must be diligent, tenacious, and disciplined. Writing books, especially in the context of collaborations or local history, requires extensive research, attention to detail, and a commitment to honing my craft.

Challenges have undoubtedly arisen along the way. There were times when self-doubt crept in, or when the creative process seemed daunting. However, I have overcome these obstacles by cultivating resilience and staying focused on my passion and purpose. I have learned to embrace the inevitable ups and downs of the creative journey and to view challenges as opportunities for growth and self-discovery.

Throughout my artistic pursuits, I have gained valuable lessons. I have learned the importance of perseverance, even when faced with setbacks or rejections. I have discovered the power of collaboration and the beauty of sharing stories with others. Most importantly, I have realized that there is always an untold story waiting to be discovered, and I am constantly on the lookout for the next great narrative that has yet to be explored.

In a nutshell, my art has allowed me to create a substantial body of work, with a special focus on local history and memoir collaborations. I am proud of the books I have written and the impact they have had on readers. I have learned the importance of discipline, tenacity, and adaptability in a creative-driven field. And above all, I am driven by a deep-seated passion for uncovering and sharing untold stories that have the power to captivate and inspire.

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?
If I had a good friend visiting the area and wanted them to experience some of my favorite things, I would plan a diverse and exciting itinerary. Here’s what our adventure might look like:

1. Walk at the Bolsa Chica Wetlands: We would start our day with a refreshing walk at the Bolsa Chica Wetlands. Exploring the scenic trails and observing the diverse wildlife would be a great way to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the area.

2. Pizza at Johnny’s: After our walk, we would head to Johnny’s, a local favorite pizza joint. We would indulge in their delicious and freshly baked pizzas, savoring the flavors and enjoying a casual and relaxed atmosphere.

3. Sunset dinner at LSXO: As evening approaches, we would make our way to LSXO, a fantastic dining spot. Situated in the heart of Orange County, we would enjoy a mouthwatering meal while witnessing a stunning sunset. The ambiance and culinary delights at LSXO would create a memorable dining experience.

4. Catch a ball game: If the Angels were in town, we would seize the opportunity to catch a baseball game at their stadium. Cheering for the home team, enjoying the lively atmosphere, and indulging in some classic ballpark snacks would add an element of excitement to our visit.

5. Dim sum in Little Saigon: To explore the vibrant cultural scene of Orange County, we would head to Little Saigon, a hub of Vietnamese culture and cuisine. We would savor a delightful dim sum meal, sampling various small bites of steamed dumplings, buns, and other delicious treats.

6. Explore historical sites: Orange County has a rich history, and I would take my friend to explore some of the significant historical sites. We could visit the Mission San Juan Capistrano, a renowned landmark dating back to the 18th century, or explore the historic district of Old Town Orange, known for its well-preserved architecture and charming atmosphere.

By combining nature, culinary delights, sports, cultural experiences, and history, my friend would get a taste of my favorite aspects of the area. It would be an immersive and diverse journey that showcases the unique offerings and highlights of Orange County.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
John Cheever, the famed Fiction writer, who was a neighbor of mine when I was a teenager. He took the time to mentor me for years after I reached out to him when I decided I wanted to be a writer.

Website: www.chrisepting.com

Instagram: @chrisepting

Twitter: @chrisepting

Facebook: @christianepting

Image Credits
Chris Epting