Meet Michelle Schmer | Author & Podcaster

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

Hi Michelle, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
When I became a widow, I had no idea what or where my new solo path would take me. I just wanted to get on the other side of the pain and grief. I knew I wanted something different for myself and I wanted to help others who felt lost or stuck. My blogs and podcast were the creative tool that came from my sadness. I found a way to connect and share stories, to let people know they aren’t alone or it’s never too late to follow your dream(s). I always wanted to write a book or have a podcast, but was terrified to try. As a widow, losing everything gave me the courage to face something new. What did I have to lose? I feel/believe my path can help others. Writing is a powerful tool. Everyone has a story. Write your heart out–and heal.
I hope my book, blogs, and podcast can help others who feel stuck or lost to find their voice. That is how I feel I help the community or world–through writing.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
It took me a long time to find my voice. My actual speaking voice and my writing voice. I have always been the quiet one in the corner, not wanting to interact or be center of attention. Taking Public Speaking in college was the hardest and best thing I ever did. I learned the skills to help me with my teaching and corporate training roles. Having tools is a great asset to build from. My writing voice came much later. After my world fell apart. Writing was a creative outlet but also a tool. This tool helped me channel sadness into a powerful, creative force for good. With loving intentions and a joyful spirit to create a better world for myself and others.

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?
Coffee shops, Italian restaurants, and museums are my go to places. However, I would need to consider my friend’s interests. If they wanted to see a yarn garden, I’d go there. Being from Southern California the Pacific Ocean is a stop for sure. I love sitting at a coffee shop with a view of the ocean. The coffee tastes better with a view. There are so many different museums that surely something cultural could be enjoyed. And after the coffee and art, an Italian meal to reflect on the day and all the fun, sights, and adventure. I had a future architect cousin from Spain visit and made a point to see the Geary building in LA and other architectural points of interest. He never had Indian food so walked him through papadam, chutney, samosas, korma, saag, naan, and tandoori chicken. He ate whatever we ordered like a champ. He was so happy after that meal. I felt like I did my job a tour guide for the sights and his tastebuds.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Lisa Vasquez is a mentor and a truly creative soul; she deserves a shoutout.
Kelly Shimabukuro is a great friend and amazing human, but she’s shy so she might not want to do this. I’ll mention her anyway just in case.
Angela Yee is a supporter and friend. She deserves a shoutout.

Website: https://coffeefueledstories.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coffeefueledstories/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AgiVExmKb/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@coffeefueledstories

Other: https://www.podbean.com/user-ngdlXvI8wTwV (podcast main page)

https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-fs8y8-16a221c (Victoria Price epic guest interview)