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

Hi Judith, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I have been an entrepreneur all my life. It came to me naturally. From taco stands to knocking on the doors of neighborhood businesses to do chores, to producing shows for the neighborhood kids, I have always found creative ways to earn money.

During my teen years and throughout college, I worked as a server in various restaurants, but even in those roles, I would say I was “self-employed,” as I was responsible for earning an income based on percentages and customer service. From early on I enjoyed leading as opposed to being lead. I’m solution-oriented, and so from my early 20s forward I became self-employed.

Let’s talk shop. Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a New York Times Bestselling ghostwriter, an author, and a book coach. I lead workshops, hold an annual mountain writers retreat, and teach indie writers how to self-publish their books. I’ve written over 2,000 articles, ghostwritten books or parts of books, and created courses for trainers and teachers.

Through my podcast, Writer to Writer, I interview writers and offer information. My life’s passion is supporting others in enhancing quality of life through learning.

I began writing at the age of seven and as an entrepreneur most of my adult life I’ve been able to step over perceived stumbling blocks to bring my dreams of writing and publishing to fruition. In 2000 I founded the Golden Pen Writers Guild, and in 2015 the Writers Mastermind Alliance, both created to support writers and help them self-publish books and blogs. My students and coaching clients have ranged between the ages of late teens and 96-years-old. Teaching other writers–no matter their age or skill level–that they can tell their stories and publish their books keeps me going in life.

Self-development is the other side of my career. As a certified clinical hypnotherapist and a firewalk instructor, I weave self-development into much of my work. It’s something that sets me apart from others in the industry. In 1993, I was certified as a Master Firewalk Instructor by Tolly Burkan, the founder of the western firewalking movement. This qualifies me to train other firewalk instructors.

Firewalking centers me. It reminds me of who I am and what I am capable of. I’ve learned that life doesn’t always roll out smoothly. It’s the rough edges, the greatest challenges, that have taught me the most; about myself and about the world. I am grateful for each experience and every relationship and the lessons I’ve learned along the way.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m originally from Michigan and when friends or family visit California, they usually want to see the typical tourist attractions, and after we do that I take them to spend time in the forest or at the ocean. The most exciting places are off the beaten path, especially now during the pandemic. Sequoia National Park is breathtaking. 

And you can’t come to California without tasting freshly picked citrus or eat avocados whole with a spoon. Fresh seafood is also a must-have.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I was fortunate to be taught by a few high-quality, caring, and committed teachers throughout high school. Writing is my life, and I would credit my love of writing to my English teacher, Marilou Boncher, who encouraged and supported my desire to learn. She never cut me any slack, and always expected the best out of me, and so I gave my best. In my senior year, she mentored me as I wrote a gothic romance novel. At the end of the second semester, right before I graduated, she told me she had a list of publishers she would give to me as long as I finished writing the book. I would say that was a defining moment for me. I had wanted to write a book but had never considered publishing. My whole future changed that day.

Website: writertowriter.com
Instagram: @writertowriter
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judith-cassis-4318b36/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/judith.cassis

Image Credits
Judith Cassis

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