Educational Writer — How To Find Dream Job

Written by Michael on October 22, 2006 – 12:44 pm -

Williams.jpgIn the 18th of my new Ask-A-Pro series, I’d like to introduce you to Colleen Williams, educational writer.

In the Ask-A-Pro format, I’ll tell you a little about the author and how-to-find-your-dream-job expert . . . then via the Comments section to this post, please feel free to ask a specific question about the career or job in question.

Anyone (expert or not) is free to post responses to your query, and I or the author/how-to-find-your-dream-job pro may chime in as well. This is your chance to get unbiased advice from a real, honest-to-goodness-been-there-done-that dream job professional.

Okay, over to you Colleen.

Colleen Madonna Flood Williams is a State-Certified elementary teacher in Alaska. She writes and edits on a number of topics including fiction, inspirational nonfiction, children’s picture books, parenting, academic success, art education, and methods of dealing with at-risk children. She is noted for turning out quick, clean, concise copy.

Colleen graduated recently with a Bachelor of Education, art minor. She was inducted into the Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society in 1998. (Her GPA was 3.89.) She also holds liberal arts and sciences, general studies, and associate’s degrees.

Colleen recently battled breast cancer. Having conquered stage 3 breast cancer with nine positive lymph nodes, it’s no wonder Colleen has also been accepting assignments to write and edit inspirational materials for cancer patients.

Colleen recently completed a contract for Harcourt Learning Direct. She edited and revised one of their online educational courses and supplemental text series. She also recently published an Art Teaching Unit with Wintertickle Press of Ontario, Canada. Her Art Unit has been pulled from the website, as it is under consideration for publication from a major educational publisher. She has also written a standardized science exam for Englefield and Arnold Publishing.

Colleen’s first six children’s reference books: The Geography of Mexico, The Festivals of Mexico, The People of Mexico, Native American Family Life, Native American Clothing, and Native American Shelters are being published by OTTN, a New Jersey Educational Publishing Company (January 2002). She is also currently writing for Alaska Business Monthly Magazine and has frequently written for Northwest Baby and Child. In September of 2001, she completed a Science Exam based on the Texas Science Standards for Engelfield and Arnold Publishing.  She also has a story in Chicken Soup for the Grandparent’s Soul.

Colleen has hosted poetry workshops and is the author of over 30 books for Orchard Academy Press’s My Adventure series.
 
Dream Jobs To Go Title
Educational Freelance Writer

Current Profession
Educational Freelance Writer

Websites or Blogs You’d Like Us To Know About
Windstorm Creative

What Would You Be Doing If You Weren’t An Educational Freelance Writer?
I’d be a teacher or a stand-up comedian.

Life Philosophy
What does not kill me makes me stronger.

Favorite Food
King crab or lobster

Favorite Read
The Hobbit, Lord of the Rings trilogy, Little Prince, and The Velveteen Rabbit.

Favorite Authors
Tolkien, St. Antoine D’Exupery

Favorite Travel Destination
Hawaii

Favorite Music
Hip Hop, Rap, Country, Jazz, Rock, Classical . . . I love it all!

Favorite Sports Team
Buffalo Sabres

Favorite Movies
Fried Green Tomatoes, Pulp Fiction, and Hellraiser.

Favorite City
Buffalo, NY

Favorite Country
United States

Favorite Animal
Dragonfly

Your Hobbies
Writing, working out, and surfing the net.

Favorite Quotation
What does not kill me makes me stronger.

Favorite Drink
Nestlé’s bottled strawberry flavored water

Why Do You Live Where You Do?
I live in Kachemak City, Alaska and love it here.

If You Could Live Anywhere You Wanted, Where Would It Be?  Why?
Kachemak City, Alaska or Buffalo, NY . . . in this order . . . the view is amazing, my family is in Buffalo.

The Greatest Things About Being An Educational Freelance Writer
I get to work from home in my pajamas.

The Worst Thing About Being An Educational Freelance Writer
The pay is not steady.

If A Young Person Approached You About Getting Into Educational Freelance Writing, What Would You Say?
Follow your dreams . . . but find a spouse with a steady job!

If An Older, Career-Changer Approach You About Getting Into Educational Freelance Writing, What Would You Say?
Write about what you know most about.

The Most Important Piece Of Advice Anyone Ever Gave You About Life?
My father told me that the stronger you are mentally, the stronger you are in all other areas of your life.  I agree.

Any Other Advice You’d Like To Share With People Who’re Thinking About Getting Into Educational Freelance Writing?
Read my book.

How Would You Define Success?
ISBN Numbers or publications.  Lots and lots of ISBN Numbers or publications!  I have many, as I have written over 20 books for children now.

Any Other Comments About the World Of Work You’d Like To Share?
Do what makes you happy and you will do it well.

Popularity: 10% [?]


Posted in Ask-A-Pro, Writing | No Comments »

Working With Horses — How To Find Dream Job

Written by Michael on October 21, 2006 – 1:46 am -

LeSchack.jpgIn the 17th of my new Ask-A-Pro series, I’d like to present you with Sharon Le Schack, professional equestrian.

In the Ask-A-Pro format, I’ll tell you a little about the author and how-to-find-your-dream-job expert . . . then via the Comments section to this post, please feel free to ask a specific question about the career or job in question.

Anyone (expert or not) is free to post responses to your query, and I or the author/how-to-find-your-dream-job pro may chime in as well.

This is your chance to get unbiased advice from a real, honest-to-goodness-been-there-done-that dream job professional.

So, here goes . . . Sharon on working with horses.

Sharon Le Schack has been enamored with horses since she was two years old. Growing up she spent countless hours at her local riding stable taking lessons, competing in amateur horse shows, and eventually working at the barn mucking stalls and grooming horses for free trail rides and lessons.

Her devotion to horses grew from a passion to a way of life when she bought a two-year-old Arabian colt that instantly became the love of her life. She took him to college with her where she earned a bachelor’s degree in equestrian studies. Taking her own advice, she has worked at a variety of barns caring for show and pleasure horses. After working on a breeding farm, a number of small private barns, and managing a professional show barn, Sharon found her industry niche managing a private training barn. There she gained a tremendous amount of experience and honed her own personal style.

Sharon is currently freelancing for equine publications, magazines and newspapers, writing about her experiences with horses and the world around them. They are and will always be her favorite subject.

Dream Jobs To Go Title
How to Get Started Working With Horses

Current Profession
Professional Equestrian

What Would You Be Doing If You Weren’t A Professional Equestrian?
I would be an unprofessional equestrian. If I were not working or playing with horses, I would go insane.

Life Philosophy
Enjoy what you are doing and who you are doing it with or wear police tape around you warning people to stay back.

Favorite Food
Ketchup

Favorite Read
Anything that makes me go “Hmmm.”

Favorite Authors
Anyone who makes me laugh and go “Hmmm.”

Favorite Travel Destination
Disney in the off season
 
Favorite Music
Country

Favorite Sports Team
Yankees

Favorite Movie
It’s a toss up between Young Frankenstein and the greatest Star Wars installment ever made: Space Balls–The Movie
 
Favorite City
New York City

Favorite Country
USA

Favorite Animal
All of them.

Your Hobbies
Anything involving horses and the right side of my brain

Favorite Websites (Other Than Your Own)
Country Music Television, where I can watch my favorite videos.

Favorite Quotation
Just Keep Swimming, Just Keep Swimming. Dori, from Finding Nemo (the Disney movie).

Favorite Drink
Dr. Pepper

Why Do You Live Where You Do?
My house and dogs are there.

If You Could Live Anywhere You Wanted, Where Would It Be?  Why?
In Chris Cagle’s house . . . Do I need to explain?

The Greatest Things About Being A Professional Equestrian
Playing with horses all day and big horsey hugs.

The Worst Thing About Being A professional Equestrian
Staying up all night with a colicky horse

If A Young Person Approached You About Getting Into the Horse Industry, What Would You Say?
Get a good pair of muckers and test drive every type of barn and breed and riding discipline out there.

If An Older, Career-Changer Approach You About Getting Into the Horse Industry, What Would You Say?
Get a really good pair of muckers, with the fuzzy, fleece on the top, and test drive every type of barn and breed and riding discipline out there.

The Most Important Piece Of Advice Anyone Ever Gave You About Life?
 Listen to Mommy.

Any Other Advice You’d Like To Share With People Who’re Thinking About Getting Into The Horse Industry?
Horses are a far greater industry than you can imagine. Working within the industry does not mean mucking stalls. It could involve managing a tack shop or feed store, assisting a veterinarian, becoming a farrier shoeing horses, coordinating sporting events and shows, training horses and riders, performing chiropractic services on horses, dentistry, acupuncture and much, much more. There are so many areas where a person’s life’s experiences and talents can be utilized to become a member of this amazing world of horses.

How Would You Define Success?
Doing what you love and loving what you do.

Any Other Comments About the World Of Work You’d Like To Share?
Try it, I guarantee you’ll be hooked.

Popularity: 19% [?]


Posted in Animals, Ask-A-Pro | 2 Comments »

Interior Landscaper — How To Find Dream Job

Written by Michael on October 12, 2006 – 12:23 pm -

Reed.jpgIn the 16th of my new Ask-A-Pro series, I’d like to introduce you to Kennette Reed, formerly an interior landscaper and now a business consultant.

In the Ask-A-Pro format, I’ll tell you a little about the author and how-to-find-your-dream-job expert . . . then via the Comments section to this post, please feel free to ask a specific question about the career or job in question.

Anyone (expert or not) is free to post responses to your query, and I or the author/how-to-find-your-dream-job pro may chime in as well.

This is your chance to get unbiased advice from a real, honest-to-goodness-been-there-done-that dream job professional.

Okay, over to you Kennette:

Kennette Reed, CLP, is a freelance writer, marketing professional, public speaker, and interior landscape consultant. She has written a novel, numerous articles and short stories. After ten years as an interiorscape business owner and florist, Kennette sold the business to pursue other interests. Her years of experience were used to manage the Northern California Regional marketing efforts for a leading landscape firm. Though her efforts have recently been focused on writing projects, industry projects include customer service and marketing consultation services to firms across the country. She is past president of the San Francisco Bay Area and Sacramento Chapters of the Northern California Professional Plantscape Association, and a past board member for the California Interior Plantscape Association. Prior to its sale, Kennette’s interiorscape company won numerous awards for interiorscape design.

Dream Jobs To Go Title
How To Break Into The Interior Landscape Business

Current Profession
Business and Performance Consultant

Websites or Blogs You’d Like Us To Know About
Kennette Reed and Interior Plantscaping

What Would You Be Doing If You Weren’t A Consultant?
I’m not sure.  I love what I’m doing.  I enjoy helping other people be more successful.  I like sharing information and seeing people learn and grow as a result of my assistance.

Life Philosophy
Find work you’re passionate about and do it.  Life is too short to live it doing anything else.

Favorite Food
Almost any Mexican food.

Favorite Read
The Ultimate Consultant

Favorite Authors
John Grisham

Favorite Travel Destination
Mexico

Favorite Music
R & B

Favorite Sports Team
Oakland Raiders

Favorite Movie
The Notebook

Favorite City
Atlanta, GA

Favorite Country
USA

Favorite Animal
Dog – Shih Tzu

Your Hobbies
Home decorating

Favorite Quotation
I did it my way.

Favorite Drink
Cabernet Sauvignon

Why Do You Live Where You Do?
Love the weather and people.

If You Could Live Anywhere You Wanted, Where Would It Be?
Exactly where I am. 

The Greatest Things About Being A Consultant Is
Supporting others toward higher levels of achievement.

The Worst Thing About Being A Consultant Is
Not being able to get people to accept necessary changes sooner.

If A Young Person Approached You About Getting Into Consulting, What Would You Say?
Learn as much as you can about a number of different things.  The broader your knowledge, the more of an asset you become.

If An Older, Career-Changer Approach You About Getting Into Consulting, What Would You Say?
Go for it. 

The Most Important Piece Of Advice Anyone Ever Gave You About Life?
Don’t look back with regret.  Live your life to its fullest.

Any Other Advice You’d Like To Share With People Who’re Thinking About Getting Into Consulting?
Enjoy!

How Would You Define Success?
Success is a life filled with daily opportunities to learn and grow through experiences with the people, work, and things you love.

Any Other Comments About the World Of Work You’d Like To Share? 
There are a wealth of opportunities out there.  With so much to choose from, everyone has many opportunities to find work they’re passionate about.  Keep looking, and don’t settle.

Popularity: 19% [?]


Posted in Ask-A-Pro, Business, Other | No Comments »

Comics Artist — How To Find Dream Job

Written by Michael on October 7, 2006 – 11:31 am -

In the 15th of my new Ask-A-Pro series, I’d like to present you with Anthony Pearce, comics artist and all things graphical entertainment.

In the Ask-A-Pro format, I’ll tell you a little about the author and how-to-find-your-dream-job expert . . . then via the Comments section to this post, please feel free to ask a specific question about the career or job in question.Anyone (expert or not) is free to post responses to your query, and I or the author/how-to-find-your-dream-job pro may chime in as well. This is your chance to get unbiased advice from a real, honest-to-goodness-been-there-done-that dream job professional.So, here goes . . . Anythony Pearce and the entertainment writing and graphics business.A graduate of the School of Creative Arts in San Diego, Anthony Pearce has been living and breathing comics since he could walk. He has been writing freelance articles for Wizard, The Comics Magazine and its subsidiaries since 1995, including a feature on the correspondence course offered by the Joe Kubert School of Cartooning. As an artist he’s provided advertising illustrations for companies like Victoria’s Secret, Home Depot, Origins, and the graciously short-lived Beer-In-A-Bag. His penciled comics include She, Jordan, Furberg, Hairoine, Writer’s Bloc, and the upcoming Crazy-8’s.

Dream Jobs To Go Title
How To Break In As A Comics Artist

Current Profession
Screenwriter/ Illustrator/Storyboard Artist/ Production Designer/ Producer

Websites or Blogs You’d Like Us To Know About
http://www.myspace.com/gothkgrafx and http://imdb.com/name/nm2000423/

What Would You Be Doing If You Weren’t A Writer/Illustrator?
I wear so many hats in the entertainment field, but if I was unable to do any of them I would probably be working in some aspect of marine biology. I’m fascinated by sea life.

Life Philosophy
Every step towards your goal leaves your competition one step further behind.

Favorite Food
My wife’s oven-baked parmesan chicken. The one food I could honestly gorge myself to death on.

Favorite Read
Neverwhere, Apt Pupil, Return to Sodom and Gamorrah, Elements of Style, and Breakfast with Sharks

Favorite Authors
Harlan Ellison, Charles Pelligrino, Carl Sagan, Neil Gaiman, Stephen King, Alan Moore 

Favorite Travel Destination
Grand Cayman, for the incredible diving.

Favorite Music
Goth/Industrial, 80’s New Wave, anything that makes me think, laugh, or move.

Favorite Movie
Exorcist 3. There are thousands of others, but that’s #1.

Favorite City
Portland, OR

Your Hobbies
Collecting . . . movies, comics, books, music, images, and all the wonderful, magical things that clutter my art studio. 

Favorite Websites (Other Than Your Own)
IMDB.com, boxofficemojo.com, comics2film.com, youtube.com, superherohype.com, feardetention.com

Favorite Quotation
The world is my country, science my religion.  Christian Huygens

Favorite Drink
Pepsi One

Why Do You Live Where You Do?
I work in movies. The Hollywood area was mandatory.

If You Could Live Anywhere You Wanted, Where Would It Be?  Why?
Portland was my favorite city to live in, but LA’s been good to me. My dream home? Near tropical waters, I guess. Maybe Hawaii.

The Greatest Things About Being A Writer/Illustrator
Making my own hours and working from home. The freedom to pick my gigs is incredibly liberating. I keep everyday different. I don’t storyboard two feature films back to back, or draw consecutive comic issues. I’d rather split them up, enjoy them more, and not burn out.

The Worst Thing About Being A Writer/Illustrator
Freelancing can be feast or famine. Even with an established clientele and a ton of referrals you can still go through dry spells. It’s hard to go back to farming for jobs, but if you like to work the lulls are pretty brief. Enjoy a little down time, work on your own projects, and be ready for that next big gig.

If A Young Person Approached You About Getting Into Comic Book Illustration What Would You Say?
It’s a good career, but don’t limit yourself. Video game designers, storyboard artists, illustrators, they all do essentially the same thing. So learn from sources outside comics to be a better comic artist AND be prepared for other opportunities that come along.

If An Older, Career-Changer Approach You About Getting Into Comic Book Illustration, What Would You Say?
It’s a big field. Maybe some publishers are more eager to scoop up young flavor-of-the-month kids that are easier to control, but others appreciate an artist who’s a mature professional, who delivers on time, and who understands that it’s a business as well as a fantasy come true.

The Most Important Piece Of Advice Anyone Ever Gave You About Art
Violate the page. You never keep the first mark you make anyway, so take control of the blank canvas, or the blank page, and roll forward.

Any Other Advice You’d Like To Share With People Who’re Thinking About Getting Into Comic Book Illustration?
Draw, draw, draw. Sure, everyone says that, but that’s because the only way to be a better artist is to draw, draw, draw. And that doesn’t mean stagnate repeating the same stylistic errors you’ve always made because they’re too much work to change. It means learn, learn, learn. Identify your weaknesses, accept them, attack them head on, conquer them, check them off your list, and move on to the next one. 

Any Other Comments About the World Of Work You’d Like To Share?
Communicate clearly and honestly. Lies and misunderstandings lead to heartache. This means don’t miss deadlines and never hide from an editor/producer when you’re running behind. Fess up and then catch up. It means don’t be vague, know what you’re worth and ask for it. But first be worth what you’re asking. .  . then, deliver. These industries can breed dishonesty and you may find, as I have, that straight shooters are rare enough to make you invaluable if you’re just brave enough to be honest.

 

Popularity: 17% [?]


Posted in Art-Related, Ask-A-Pro | 2 Comments »

RV Traveling and Working — How To Find Dream Job

Written by Michael on October 1, 2006 – 3:18 am -

In the 14th of my new Ask-A-Pro series, I’d like to present you with Coleen Sykora, an RV-traveling-and-living writer and business woman

In the Ask-A-Pro format, I’ll tell you a little about the author and how-to-find-your-dream-job expert . . . then via the Comments section to this post, please feel free to ask a specific question about the career or job in question.

Anyone (expert or not) is free to post responses to your query, and I or the author/how-to-find-your-dream-job pro may chime in as well.

This is your chance to get unbiased advice from a real, honest-to-goodness-been-there-done-that dream job professional.

So, here goes . . . Coleen on living and working from an RV and all things continent-trekking.

Coleen Sykora began full-time RV living in early 1992 with her husband, a dog, and a cat.  Her RVs have been old and new, large and small, travel trailers, and motor homes.

She is a freelance writer and lifestyle consultant.  She believes positive actions yield positive results.  She writes what she lives.

Coleen publishes the Workers on Wheels website and the RV Life and Travel website.  She also publishes two RVing ezines, Workers on Wheels for RVers needing to earn a living while traveling, and Life As We Live It . . . On the Road with Coleen and Bob, a personal travelogue with lifestyle information.

She is a regular contributor to numerous print and online RVing and travel publications.

In addition to RV and travel topics, Coleen writers about her other interests.  She is the content manager of Relax, Refresh, Recharge, a website with practical solutions for feeling better mentally and physically.  She is also editor of the Hot Spicy Foods website.

Dream Jobs To Go Titles
Get a Life by Living Full-Time in a Recreational Vehicle
Make a Living in a Recreational Vehicle
Get Started as a Property Caretaker
Get Started as a Flea Market Vendor

Current Profession
I combine travel and food writing with property caretaking and selling new and used merchandise. When we’re RVing, we sell at flea markets and farm shows. When we’re taking a break from RVing, we sell at our second-hand store.

Websites or Blogs You’d Like Us To Know About
Workers On Wheels
RV Life and Travel

What Would You Be Doing If You Weren’t An RVing Writer and Vendor?
Dying. Seriously, I love what I do and if I weren’t doing these things, it would probably be because I was lying on my deathbed.

Life Philosophy
It’s not what I intend to do, but what I actually do, that matters. The easiest way to finish a task is to start it.

Favorite Food
Shellfish and Cajun food

Favorite Read
Regional cookbooks, especially those put together by churches and community groups. They are cultural goldmines.

Favorite Author
Nick Russell

Favorite Travel Destination
The Gulf Coast – southern Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana

Favorite Music
Classic country

Favorite Sports Team
J-Bar-B Hill’s Ice Racing Team

Favorite Movie
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

Favorite City
Tampa, Florida

Favorite Country
U.S.A.

Favorite Animals
Dogs and cats

Your Hobbies
Reading, writing, traveling, and ferreting out oddball things to buy and sell.

Favorite Websites (Other Than Your Own)
Merriam-Webster Online

Favorite Quotation
You may be disappointed if you fail, but you are doomed if you don’t try.  Beverly Sills

Favorite Drink
Milk

Why Do You Live Where You Do?
We have a home base in Alaska because my husband fell in love with the state and wanted to own a piece of it. We alternate between living in our cabin and in the RV.

If You Could Live Anywhere You Wanted, Where Would It Be?  Why?
In my RV, traveling the U.S.A. Because of the freedom, flexibility, great scenery, great foods, new people, and new experiences.

The Greatest Things About Being An RVing Writer, Caretaker, and Market Vendor?
The flexibility and variety. I never have to worry about life being the “same old, same old.”

The Worst Thing About Being An RVing Writer, Caretaker, and Market Vendor?
I come across so many great opportunities and I just don’t have time to pursue as many of them as I’d like to.

If A Young Person Approached You About Getting Into Full-time RVing, Writing, Caretaking, and Market Vending, What Would You Say?
The two things you need most to succeed are desire and determination.

If An Older, Career-Changer Approached You About Getting Into Full-time RVing, Writing, Caretaking, and Market Vending, What Would You Say?
What are you waiting for? The time will never be exactly right. Get going!

The Most Important Piece Of Advice Anyone Ever Gave You About Life?
Strive for excellence — not perfection.

Any Other Advice You’d Like To Share With People Who’re Thinking About Getting Into The Full-time RVing Lifestyle?
The saddest thing is when people write me telling me how they dreamed of traveling and full-time RVing, but were waiting for something or another, and their spouse — and consequently their dream — died while they were waiting. Don’t wait. Don’t let your dream die.

Any Other Comments About Full-time RVing, Writing, Caretaking, or Vending You’d Like To Share?
You can do these individually, but they all work fabulously together. They’re all adaptable to many situations. Pursue them and make your life what you want it to be.

Popularity: 15% [?]


Posted in Ask-A-Pro, Outdoors/Sports, Writing | No Comments »

Boat Bum — How To Find Dream Job

Written by Michael on September 30, 2006 – 3:24 am -

Wayman.jpgIn the 13th of my new Ask-A-Pro series, I’d like to present you with Anne Wayman, freelance writer and boat bum.

In the Ask-A-Pro format, I’ll tell you a little about the author and how-to-find-your-dream-job expert . . . then via the Comments section to this post, please feel free to ask a specific question about the career or job in question.

Anyone (expert or not) is free to post responses to your query, and I or the author/how-to-find-your-dream-job pro may chime in as well.

This is your chance to get unbiased advice from a real, honest-to-goodness-been-there-done-that dream job professional.

Over to you, Anne.

Anne Wayman is a freelance writer who stumbled into boats and boat bumming after her children were grown.  She moved to the San Francisco Bay area for a writing job that didn’t pan out, and discovered the Sausalito House Boats.  After renting a floating studio, she was given a skiff that needed significant repair.  This led her to seek advice, which resulted in her first lesson about boats:

If you ask three people how to do something on or about a boat, you will get at least four answers, all of which will work.

She bought a small houseboat (really a converted lifeboat that had been built in the 1930s), and moved to Galilee Harbor, probably the country’s only low-income housing project where the houses are boats.  There she learned her second lesson about boats:

Boats, by definition, are never finished.

Galilee Harbor is a place that gathers together artists and members of the working waterfront.  There she got to crew on two commercial salmon fishing boats off San Francisco and one commercial herring boat in the bay.  Fishing offshore led her to explore blue-water cruising.  To finance her first trip, she polished boats, learning her third lesson:

When you’re working on a boat, it grows; when you’re living on one, it shrinks.

Anne later flew to Fiji in the South Pacific to join a boat.  The original plan was to stay on one boat, sail for four to six months, and end up in Hawaii.  She actually ended up cruising for five months, on three boats, and ended up in Brisbane, Australia, leading to her fourth lesson:

Whatever your cruising plans are, they will change.

Anne has also crewed boats from Hawaii to California, along much of the Inland Waterway of the East Coast, and on trips to Catalina and other southern California ports of call.  She also served as crew for a couple of days on a tug boat on the Napa River in northern California and is generally at home in any marina and on many boats anywhere you happen to find her.

She is currently berthed in San Diego.

Dream Jobs To Go Title
How to Bum Your Way Around the World on a Boat

Current Profession
Freelance Writer and Writing Coach

Websites or Blogs You’d Like Us To Know About
The Golden Pencil, Writing With Vision, and About Freelance Writing

What Would You Be Doing If You Weren’t A Writer?
The problem is the grandkids . . .  if I were boat bumming I couldn’t see them nearly as often as I like, although I am plotting to get them on boats.

Life Philosophy
Today? This too is passing – but overall? Life is exactly as good as I make it.

Favorite Food
Fresh caught salmon – wild salmon

Favorite Read
From mysteries to philosophy

Favorite Authors
Ken Wilbur, Faye Kellerman, Nora Roberts writing as JD Robb, and Emerson.

Favorite Travel Destination
Next, I’d like to skipper a boat on the canals of Europe.

Favorite Music
Blues – the rastier the better.

Favorite Sports Team
Who me? I’m the one who wouldn’t notice if football disappeared completely

Favorite Movie
Right now it’s Inconvenient Truth

Favorite Cities
Brisbane, Australia, San Francisco, Vavau in Tonga

Favorite Country
Oh my, do I have to choose?

Favorite Animal
MzTiz, my tabby cat

Your Hobbies
Pottery

Favorite Websites (Other Than Your Own)
Orisinal and Craig’s List 

Favorite Drink
Wet cappuccino made with Peet’s Coffee

Why Do You Live Where You Do?
It doesn’t snow here and two of my grandkids live here.

If You Could Live Anywhere You Wanted, Where Would It Be?  Why?
Costa Rica looks good . . . so does Australia…

The Greatest Things About Being A Freelance Writer and Writing Coach
The freedom

The Worst Thing About Being A Freelance Writer and Writing Coach
The unpredictable income

If A Young Person Approached You About Getting Into Freelance Writing What Would You Say?
Write, rewrite, and market

If A Young Person Approached You About Getting Into Boat Bumming What Would You Say?
Go for it!

If An Older, Career-Changer Approach You About Getting Into Freelance Writing What Would You Say?
Write, rewrite and market

If An Older, Career-Changer Approach You About Getting Into Boat Bumming What Would You Say?
Go for it . . . quickly.

How Would You Define Success?
Sometimes I define success by my bank account, but that doesn’t work very well. What works is making a gratitude list, then I know I’m successful

Any Other Comments About the World Of Work You’d Like To Share?
Go ahead, follow your dream!

Popularity: 15% [?]


Posted in Ask-A-Pro, Outdoors/Sports | No Comments »

National Park — How To Find Dream Job

Written by Michael on September 24, 2006 – 12:37 am -

In the 12th of my new Ask-A-Pro series, I’d like to present you with Sherril Steele-Carlin, currently a freelance writer, but in prior lives a national park, casino, and airline employee.

In the Ask-A-Pro format, I’ll tell you a little about the author and how-to-find-your-dream-job expert . . . then via the Comments section to this post, please feel free to ask a specific question about the career or job in question.

Anyone (expert or not) is free to post responses to your query, and I or the author/how-to-find-your-dream-job pro may chime in as well.

This is your chance to get unbiased advice from a real, honest-to-goodness-been-there-done-that dream job professional.

So, here goes . . . Sherril on working in national parks, casinos, and the world of words.

Sherril Steele-Carlin lives in Reno, Nevada, and worked in casinos when she first moved to the area. She knows many people who work in the casinos in Reno, and her experience working there taught her the odds in the casino are always in their favor.

Today, she’s a full-time freelance writer, living about an hour away from one of our great natural wonders, Lake Tahoe.

She’s published numerous articles in print publications like Rock & Gem, The Original Farmer’s Almanac, American Profile, Nevada Magazine, Cat Fancy, and many others. She also writes for several websites.

Dream Jobs To Go Titles
Living and Working in a National Park
Casino Jobs
Airline Jobs

Current Profession
Freelance Writer and Researcher

Websites or Blogs You’d Like Us To Know About
RenoTahoe

What Would You Be Doing If You Weren’t A Working in Parks, Casinos, Or Airlines
I’d be a professional landscape photographer.

Favorite Food
Anything Mexican

Favorite Authors
James Michener and Irving Stone

Favorite Travel Destination
The Grand Canyon

Favorite Music
Soft rock and smooth jazz

Favorite Sports Team
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (but I like the old name better!)

Favorite Movie
Singing in the Rain

Favorite City
Victoria, B.C.

Favorite Country
Ireland

Favorite Animal
My four cats

Your Hobbies
Cross Stitch, Cooking, Reading, Gardening, Crafts

Favorite Websites (Other Than Your Own)
eBay

Favorite Quotation
Life in the city can make you crazy
For sounds of the sand and the sea
Life in a high-rise can make you hungry
For things that you can’t even see
– John Denver

Favorite Drink
White wine

Why Do You Live Where You Do?
Because I hate big cities and would never live in one again.

If You Could Live Anywhere You Wanted, Where Would It Be?  Why?
On a 100-acre ranch in Montana (see above).

The Greatest Things About Being A Freelance Writer
The freedom and the creativity.

The Worst Thing About Being A Freelance Writer
Paying the bills, finding work, and nasty editors.

If A Young Person Approached You About Getting Into Freelance Writing, What Would You Say?
It’s a job, not just an adventure! Treat it like a business, and always be on the lookout for new work.

How Would You Define Success?
I think success is different for everyone. Success for me is the ability to live the life I want, do the work I love, and live where I’m happiest. It’s not all about money, but what you do with the money, and your time, I think, that marks success.

Popularity: 15% [?]


Posted in Ask-A-Pro, Outdoors/Sports | 1 Comment »

Caterer — How To Find Dream Job

Written by Michael on September 19, 2006 – 2:48 am -

Davis.jpgIn the 11th of my new Ask-A-Pro series, I’d like to present you with Susan Davis (writing as SC Torrington), caterer.

In the Ask-A-Pro format, I’ll tell you a little about the author and how-to-find-your-dream-job expert . . . then via the Comments section to this post, please feel free to ask a specific question about the career or job in question.

Anyone (expert or not) is free to post responses to your query, and I or the author/how-to-find-your-dream-job pro may chime in as well.

This is your chance to get unbiased advice from a real, honest-to-goodness-been-there-done-that dream job professional.

So, here goes . . . Susan on setting up and running your own catering business.

Susan C. Gotschall-Davis (writing as SC Torrington) has been a freelance corporate caterer and craft service person (”snack lady”) on film/video productions in the Baltimore/Washington, D.C. area since 1985. Starting as a production assistant on local commercials, Susan began helping the caterers on set. When The Bedroom Window (1985) began filming in Baltimore, one of the caterers recommended her to do “craft service.” (On most movie sets, the caterer’s meals are supplemented with a continental breakfast, an all-day buffet table, and sometimes, a hot second meal, all of which is provided by the craft service position.)

Because of her professional reputation, she was invited to become the first female member of IATSE, Local 19, the union that had jurisdiction over Baltimore film production. In the early 1990s, a new studio mechanics union, Local 487, was formed. Susan joined and was asked to apprentice and train several new members for the position.

In addition to craft service, Susan regularly works as a film production and small corporate caterer. Occasionally, she enjoys being “just a server” for many larger events, including wedding receptions and anniversary dinners.
Susan’s more than two-dozen film credits (although her position doesn’t always make it to the screen) include Barry Levinson’s Avalon, John Waters’ Hairspray and Serial Mom, and the long-running television series, Homicide.

Dream Jobs To Go Title
How to Get Started as a Caterer 

Current Profession
Freelance Writer, Assistant Editor w/Baltimore’s Child magazine, and home-schooling mom.

Websites Or Blogs You’d Like Us To Know About
http://www.sctorrington.com/ http://www.baltimoreschild.com/

What Would You  Be Doing If You Weren’t a Caterer or Writer?
Stand-up comic

Life Philosophy
Pre-production is everything!

Favorite Food
Coffee ice cream

Favorite Read
Diane Mott Davidson’s Goldy Bear Catering Mystery series

Favorite Authors
Hemingway, pre-accident Stephen King

Favorite Travel Destination
A deserted island.

Favorite Music
Frank Sinatra

Favorite Movie
Splendor in the Grass

Favorite City
I’ll know it when I find it.

Favorite Country
I’ll know it when I find it, too.

Favorite Time of Day
4 a.m.

Your Favorite Hobby
Collecting Liguus tree snails

Favorite Website (Other Than Your Own)
Find-A-Death

Favorite Quotation
Regrets for the things we did can be tempered with time. It is regret for the things we did not do that is inconsolable.—Sydney J. Harris

Favorite Drink
Syrupy Coca-Cola with lots of ice.

Why Do You Live Where You Live?
I’m stuck here. My family still lives in the Mid-Atlantic region.

If You Could Live Anywhere You Wanted, Where Would It Be?
Someplace less humid. Gimme 40 heavily wooded acres with a stream and I’ll build a bunker in the center. I’m an isolationist.

The Greatest Things About Being a Caterer Are
Edible creativity, independence, people-pleasing, and yup, the great left-overs.

The Worst Thing About Being A Caterer Is
Dirty dishes.

If A Young Person Approached You About Getting Into Catering, What Would You Say?
Go work for someone else first. Being a good cook does not make you a good caterer.

If An Older, Career-Changer Approached You About Getting Into Catering, What Would You Say?
Make sure you have plenty of money for the business start-up and to live on. Then, kiss your family good-bye on weekends and holidays.

The Most Important Piece of Advice Anyone Ever Gave You About Catering
Never look worried.

Any Other Advice You’d Like To Share With People Who’re Thinking About Getting Into This Field?
The days of starting a catering business out of your family’s kitchen are over. Understand Health Dept. Codes. Have a real business plan. Food is an emotional issue. Catering is a service more than a product. If you’re gonna be a temperamental chef, stay in the kitchen. If you’re gonna be a caterer, listen to your clients. And know when to say “No” to a job.

How Would You Define Success?
As a caterer, success can be as simple as getting through an event with no broken dishes and a client’s check that doesn’t bounce. On a larger scale, it’s knowing you lived up to your contract without cutting corners, all that obsessive/compulsive organizing paid off and everybody came away full and happy. Cosmically, Albert Einstein says, “Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value.” And on a totally personal level, success is getting to do what I want and get away with it!

Any Other Comments About The World of Work You’d Like To Share?
Never be afraid to quit a job you hate. Reinvent yourself often!

Popularity: 13% [?]


Posted in Ask-A-Pro, Other | 4 Comments »

Filmmaker — How To Find Dream Job

Written by Michael on August 27, 2006 – 3:58 am -

Cook.jpgIn the tenth of my new Ask-A-Pro series, I’d like to present you with Rita Cook, independent filmmaker, producer, and writer.

In the Ask-A-Pro format, I’ll tell you a little about the author and how-to-find-your-dream-job expert . . . then via the Comments section to this post, please feel free to ask a specific question about the career or job in question.

Anyone (expert or not) is free to post responses to your query, and I or the author/how-to-find-your-dream-job pro may chime in as well.

This is your chance to get unbiased advice from a real, honest-to-goodness-been-there-done-that dream job professional.

So, here goes . . . Rita Cook on the dream job of working in independent film production.

Rita Cook is a writer and producer with over a decade of diversified experience. She was an associate producer on the horror/action feature film Route 666 with Trimark Pictures.

She is also the associate producer on Naomi’s Web and she recently produced the feature-length film, Marty & Virginia, for Cicero Productions.

In 2000, Rita was a production manager on the television pilot, Norm Crosby’s Celebrity Golf Challenge, and in 1999 she was production manager on Two American Idiots.

Rita has worked on several television pilots including All About the Money and produced an award-winning short called The Limited, as well as a short called In Due Time.

When moving to Los Angeles, she worked with action-adventure screenwriter Neill Hicks, worked a short stint in development, and took a month to work with an executive producer/director on a cable special. Before moving to Los Angeles, Rita did an internship in Chicago with the co-head writer of The Young and the Restless.
 
Rita works as a freelance script consultant and is co-writing a book called Screenwriters: From Inspiration to Action. She is vice-president of Cinewomen, an LA-based organization, Vice President of Reviews for the Film Advisory Board, and is President Emeritus of Women in Film and Television/Chicago.

For four years in Chicago, Rita was on the board of directors of the nationally known organization, Women in Film and Television and she served as President for two years. She is also well-known in the city of Chicago for her development of the WIFT mentor program.

Dream Jobs To Go Title
How To Get Started As An Independent Filmmaker

Current Profession
Filmmaker and Writer

Websites or Blogs You’d Like Us To Know About
Rita Cook’s new novel, Angel’s Destiny, can be found at Publish America.

What Would You Be Doing If You Weren’t An Independent Producer?
I am doing it – not only have I had the chance to produce films, but I have been travel writing and I wrote a novel called Angel’s Destiny that was published in November 2005.

Life Philosophy
So Mote it Be!

Favorite Food
Tex Mex (but, when in Italy the Italian food is to die for).

Favorite Read
The Game of Life and How to Play It by Florence Scovel Shinn

Favorite Authors
Florence Scovel Shinn and Raven Grimassi

Favorite Travel Destination
Toss up between Sweden’s Ice Hotel and Cayo Espanto in Belize.

Favorite Music
Depends on my mood, but I love electronic stuff and anything with wolves howling in the background

Favorite Sports Team
I haven’t watched sports in years – does horseracing count?

Favorite Movie
Another hard one, this week it is “The Illusionist,” but last week it was “Little Miss Sunshine.”  Of course, there is always “Apocalypse Now” and “Garden State.”

Favorite City
Don’t make me decide – awe….. how about Morconne, Italy – my getaway.

Favorite Country
Repetitively – Italy!

Favorite Animal
Wolf, cat, raven (not necessarily in that order).

Your Hobbies
Traveling, writing, and gardening.

Favorite Websites (Other Than Your Own)
Independent Movie Database

Favorite Quotation
It is only with the heart that one can see rightly, what is essential is invisible to the eye.  The Little Prince

Favorite Drink
Any kind of Martini – except dirty.

Why Do You Live Where You Do?
I just got married and my husband won’t leave – but I also live in Los Angeles so I am bi-coastal – whew!

If You Could Live Anywhere You Wanted, Where Would It Be?  Why?
I would live in Scotland – Edinburgh, I feel really connected to that country.

The Greatest Things About Being an Independent Producer
The independence.  I don’t have to do it all the time and I can pursue my other dreams. 

The Worst Thing About Being an Independent Producer
Finding money to make the next film. 

If A Young Person Approached You About Getting Into Independent Producing, What Would You Say?
Go make a movie right now with any camera you can find and have a good time doing it!

If An Older, Career-Changer Approach You About Getting Into Independent Producing, What Would You Say?
Go make a movie right now with any camera you can find and have a good time doing it!

The Most Important Piece Of Advice Anyone Ever Gave You About Life?
When you become President of Women in Film (I was president in Chicago), surround yourself with your friends and likeminded people – you don’t need the extra baggage otherwise.

Any Other Advice You’d Like To Share With People Who’re Thinking About Getting Into Independent Producing?
There aren’t really any rules so make them up as you go and don’t let anyone know you don’t know what you are doing.

How Would You Define Success?
Success to me is defined by a person’s happiness and if they love what they are doing, no matter what that might be.  If I wake up every day with a smile on my face, then I have found success.

Any Other Comments About the World Of Work You’d Like To Share?
It’s not rocket science, so have a good time.

Popularity: 15% [?]


Posted in Ask-A-Pro, Film/Theatre/Public | 3 Comments »

Storyteller — How To Find Dream Job

Written by Michael on August 25, 2006 – 7:24 pm -

King.jpgIn the ninth of my new Ask-A-Pro series, I’d like to present you with Chris King, storyteller extraordinaire.

In the Ask-A-Pro format, I’ll tell you a little about the author and how-to-find-your-dream-job expert . . . then via the Comments section to this post, please feel free to ask a specific question about the career or job in question.

Anyone (expert or not) is free to post responses to your query, and I or the author/how-to-find-your-dream-job pro may chime in as well.

This is your chance to get unbiased advice from a real, honest-to-goodness-been-there-done-that dream job professional.

So, over to you, Chris King, and your take on storytelling.

Chris King has what she calls a Portfolio Career — many different part-time careers, including writing, website design, storytelling, speaking, desktop publishing, and waiting tables, to name a few — but admits that storytelling is her true passion.

When asked about her storytelling, Chris replies, “I tell traditional stories — with a modern day twist; original stories — both personal and believable, and business stories — with a meaningful message.  My mission is to tell stories that are so compelling that listeners of all ages fall in love with the art of storytelling and want to tell their own.”

Dream Jobs To Go Titles
How to Get Started as a Fitness Instructor
How to Get Started as a Professional Storyteller

Current Profession
Portfolio Career — Storyteller, fitness instructor, writer, speaker, web site designer, trainer, artist, and waitress.

Personal Website
Creative Keys

Favorite Food
All Vegetables

Favorite Read
I read and like everything, even the junk. My latest favorite book, Refuse to Choose by Barbara Sher

Life Philosophy
Whatever you believe and conceive, you can achieve.

Favorite Authors
Natalie Goldberg, Julia Cameron, and Anne La Mott.

Favorite Sports
Aerobics, ice skating, and tennis.

Favorite Travel Destination
Cities: New York, Chicago, and Washington, D.C.

Favorite Music
Classical

Favorite Movie
The Long, Hot Summer with Paul Newman

Favorite City
Cleveland, Ohio

Favorite Country
United States

Your Hobbies
Reading, writing, attending workshops, surfing the web, and taking classes.

Favorite Website
Dream Jobs To Go (well, aw shucks, and thanks, Chris!)

Favorite Quotation
The mind once stretched to a new idea, never goes back to its original dimensions.

Favorite Drink
Coffee

Why Do You Live Where You Live?
I live in Cleveland, Ohio because it not only offers culture, great affordable living, and easy access to everywhere, it is a big small town where I have a huge network of friendly people I know and who know me.

If You Could Live Anywhere You Wanted, Where Would It Be?  Why?
I love where I live now. If I had to move, it would probably be to Washington, D.C. for the culture and warmer weather. The museums and Library of Congress are incredible.

The Greatest Things About Being A Professional Storyteller Are:
It is an incredible amount of FUN! And, people of all ages and walks of life love listening to and learning from stories. You experience the thrill of seeing their eyes light up.

The Worst Thing About Being A Professional Storyteller:
As a profession, it can be a “hard sell” because a lot of organizations don’t have any idea of what storytelling entails. Also, so many storytellers are passionate about what they do, they do not charge enough. The good news is that this is changing as the art is spread.

If A Young Person Approached You About Getting Into Storytelling, What Would You Say?
Do it! Start by getting involved with a storytelling group, finding and telling stories and attend any and all storytelling events near - and far - that you can.

If An Older, Career-Changer Approached You About Getting Into Storytelling, What Would You Say?
I would really encourage them, because they have the advantage of years of experiences. I would also echo exactly what I told the young person in the previous question.

The Most Important Piece Of Advice Anyone Ever Gave You About Being A Storyteller?
Start collecting stories you absolutely LOVE! Then make them part of your repertoire and practice, practice, practice.

Any Other Advice You’d Like To Share With People Who’re Thinking About Getting Into Professional Storytelling?
It is a Dream Job but, like everything else, it takes work and dedication. Get going, and I don’t suggest immediately quitting your day job. You can easily be a part-time storyteller for the time being.

How Would You Define Success?
Living the good life where you get up in the morning and can’t wait to start all over again. And, that is how I feel about my life and Portfolio Career.
 

Popularity: 14% [?]


Posted in Ask-A-Pro, Film/Theatre/Public, Writing | 2 Comments »
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