34: From Healthcare to Published Author - MJ Foley's Journey to Embracing Her Creative Side

Welcome back to another episode of the Badass Books and Besties! I'm your host, Brianna Brown, and today we have a very special guest joining us - MJ Foley, a published author who is here to share her journey and insights. MJ's passion for reading and writing was ignited by her grandfather, and she has since followed her dreams while balancing a successful career in the healthcare industry. After working in an emergency department during the pandemic, MJ decided to pursue her lifelong ambition of publishing a novel. Her debut book, "The Foreboding," leverages her background in cognitive science, science writing, and engineering to create a unique and compelling story. In today's episode, MJ will share with us the process behind writing and publishing her book, the challenges she faced, and the fulfillment she found in pursuing her passion. We'll also delve into the importance of pushing past societal expectations and doing what truly brings us joy. So, grab your headphones and get ready to be inspired to live your own most badass life as we dive into our interview with MJ Foley. 

Here are 3 key takeaways from MJ's journey that I hope will inspire you:

1️⃣ Pursue Your Passions: The pandemic has reminded us of the value of prioritizing what brings us joy. MJ used this time as a catalyst to finally pursue her dream of writing a book. Remember, it's never too late to chase your passions and unlock your most badass self! 💪

2️⃣ Seek Support and Guidance: MJ's success is not only attributed to her dedication but also to the guidance she received from the Modern Author Accelerator Program and her team of editors. Don't be afraid to seek out programs, mentors, or professional support to help you navigate your own creative journey. 📚🎨

3️⃣ Embrace Hybrid Publishing: MJ chose the hybrid publishing route for her book, enabling her to retain all the rights and have control over the various formats and platforms. Hybrid publishing may involve more upfront expenses, but it also offers more creative freedom and higher royalties. Consider exploring different publishing options that align with your goals. 📖✨

If you're curious to learn more about MJ Foley and her incredible work, make sure to check out "The Foreboding," available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and through indie bookstores. Let's show our support by leaving reviews on Goodreads and Amazon. 

You can also find her online: 

Instagram: @m.j._foley.author 

Facebook: M.J. Foley 

TikTok: @the_foreboding 

Website

Goodreads: M.J. Foley 

Amazon Author Page