Your Life Yoda

November 15, 2021

Browser-Based Video Game Review: Plays.org

Anyone who knows me beyond the corporate veil knows I love video games. They're so much more than mind-numbing, pixelated sessions of cause and effect. Video games encapsulate how we interpret the world around us. Video games hold our hopes and dreams in a world of unlimited possibilities. Video games allow us to focus on something other than workplace or family stress. For a moment, however brief, video games become not just an escape but a gateway to endless wonder and excitement. Intrigue, emotion, and imaginative plot twists are up for grabs in the modern world. Whether you're looking for your own escape or wholesome activities to keep kids busy and entertained, please welcome Plays.org!

October 28, 2021

Becoming a Value-Driven Influencer

Influencers are everywhere! With new technology connecting more people every day, it's nearly impossible to escape the enormous bubble of influence popping out of unexpected places. To older generations, the role of an influencer may seem unnecessary. But that's only because words have changed over time. If we put a "Big Movie Star" in a commercial, everyone would understand why. Those big stars had massive pull when it came to influencing people's personal choices. But times change and now there are unexpected people popping up with thousands and millions of friends...followers...and rabid fans in almost every country. Interested in becoming a value-driven influencer or hoping to work with one for your brand? Keep reading!

October 21, 2021

The Gift Shop Bear – A Sweet Family Christmas Story

It's rare to experience a brand new Christmas book from a talented author / illustrator with a unique story premise! But that's exactly what's been created with Phyllis Harris' sweet family Christmas story, The Gift Shop Bear. Get a sneak peak from my advanced copy and see why it belongs on your Christmas shelf! Find a secret at the bottom of this post for your chance to WIN a SIGNED copy straight from the author / illustrator's desk!

October 15, 2021

Being an Author – Talented Writers Spill the Beans

Curious what life is like being an author? Wondering how experienced writers feel about their craft behind the scenes? In this interview roundup, six talented writers spill the beans on their love-hate relationship with writing, how they stay focused on writing when the muse doesn't speak, who they find encouraging in the often solo-endeavor of writing, and what they're most proud of in their literary journey. The answers will surprise you, guide you, and help you as the illustrious vale is pulled back.

May 18, 2021

Book Making Magic with Literary Agent Adria Goetz

Adria Goetz is no stranger to making magic in the publishing industry. Her many years of successful experience, insight, and talented cliental are well known. Book making magic is the essence in identifying great ideas, championing those ideas through the book making process, and delivering valuable stories to kids, families, and communities around the world. Literary Agent Adria Goetz shares perspectives and bares her soul in this eye-opening dive into her life as a book lover.

May 4, 2021

Uncomfortable Grace with Grief Counselor and Podcast Show Host Mandy Capehart

Have you ever struggled finding the right words to say to someone in a moment of grief? Would you like to learn new ways of dealing with difficult situations in your own life? Join me and professional grief counselor and podcast show host Mandy Capehart for a deep dive into grief, growth, and how to cultivate a healthy mindset. Chock full of actionable tips and communication strategies, this interview will leave you feeling more equipped and capable of handling life's surprises.

April 20, 2021

3 Ways to Refresh Your Blog’s Branding

If you've been blogging for any length of time, you're bound to come face to face with the reality of your old site feeling a bit stale. I used to think changing my website around meant the current style or format was bad. But that really isn't the case. As we develop as bloggers and website owners, we grow and change. Our focus shifts from one topic to the next, or it becomes even more laser focused on that golden niche. Noticing our site is feeling stale is a signal to us to try something new. This trying something new is exactly what a branding refresh is all about. Here are 3 simple strategies to refresh your brand's blog.

March 2, 2021

Writing that Sells: Lessons Learned from Award-Winning Author, Poet, and Speaker Brian P. Cleary

The average traditionally published author sells 3,000 books, with only a fraction of that sold within the first year. Would it be prudent then, to probe the mind of an author who has sold more than 3 million books? Would the experiences and lessons learned of a writer who spent more than 40 years honing his craft be valuable? Would the perspective of a poet who has visited more than 500 schools, engaged with over 95,000 students, spoken in 42 states and Europe, published over 50 titles, and is Senior Editor at American Greetings be helpful? The correct answer is obviously YES! Now, read on.

February 16, 2021

Writing Children’s Books as a Lifestyle with Tara Lazar

Becoming a published author is a common dream. Writing children's books, a common passion. But for the few who have captured writing children's books as a lifestyle and made kidlit a primary focus in their life, day after day, there is much to be gleamed. Sharing experiences, lessons learned, and a traditionally published author journey with us today is prolific kidlit author and Storystorm challenge creator, Tara Lazar. If I could sum up this interview in one word, it would be raw. The next 2,000+ words you'll embrace will peel back not only the publishing curtain but also the curtain of life. And perhaps by the end, you'll embrace writing as a part of your life, not just something you do when there's time.

February 2, 2021

Crafting Messages with Author and Illustrator Shay Fan

Crafting the perfect message is much more than throwing words at the wall and hoping one of them sticks. Tailoring messages to a target audience is a surefire way to see better results not just in the corporate world, but at home, on blogs, and especially on book store shelves. Helping us see the importance of carefully selecting our words is author and illustrator Shay Fan, who has worked in marketing and Public Relations for companies like Skype and YouTube. She is also represented by Andrea Walker of Azantian Literary Agency. If you care about building your personal brand and communicating effectively, this is one interview you can't afford to miss.