Today we’d like to introduce you to Pam Wilson.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’ve always been a writer, a storyteller. I am fascinated with people’s stories as well as my own and how these experiences were global. I have always written personal narratives before I even knew what that form of writing was called. Since I can remember, I’ve been writing, and my idea (long before Carrie Bradshaw) was to live in New York or Chicago and write about my life. I got side-tracked in college (NEVER have a Plan B) and ended up with a degree in child and family development and then a master’s in social work from Washington University. When I had little kids, I got injured and began following my dream of writing about my life, raising kids in suburbia. The column, SOS From Suburbia appeared in Savvy Family Magazine, St. Louis Moms, and Dads and then the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. That was a real home-town girl moment for me! I continued writing personal narratives and added travel blogs-combining two of the things I love most. My travel blogs are personal narratives, too. A few years ago, I realized that my writing experience and my social work background lent themselves to coaching other writers as a writing coach. Today, I am St. Louis Girl Storytelling, and I continue to write about my oh-so-interesting life, including travel, host a podcast: St. Louis Girl Podcast and coach people who want to write. My mission is to empower people to find and use their voice through storytelling and I LOVE it! I am able to be creative, support others and follow my passion for writing which brings me such JOY!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Oh no!!! I keep being reminded that without struggles we don’t appreciate the easy. I prefer the light!!! I am in year four of owning my own writing company and I’ve definitely had my ups and downs. I love the process of writing and podcasting and highlighting other people and their stories. I’ve been in situations with the most amazing people who trust me and realize that I do know what I’m doing; I’ve been in situations where people didn’t pay me. Since I am freelance sometimes, I have crazy deadlines which means that you might not see me for a few days. Sometimes I have to create work for myself. (that’s the fun part) Another struggle is that I have to pay for my own healthcare which is expensive. However, having said all of that, I am incredibly grateful that I finally realized and took ownership of my creativity which led me to doing what I love love love!!! People ask what I want to happen with my writing. Well, I wouldn’t turn Reese Witherspoon, Shonda Rhimes or Sarah Jessica Parker down if they wanted to take my story to the small or big screen! While I’m certain they will call, I continue to write and share stories. At the end of all my blogs, narratives, and podcasts, I say: Expect Good. Defy Gravity! Sparkle ON! and I hope that I am living that each and every day.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a writer. A storyteller. I believe in the power of creativity and all that creativity offers us. I can look at a situation and see it from all different angles-I think way outside of the box. Often there isn’t even a box! I specialize in personal narratives that highlight a life of meaning, passion, and optimism. With everything I write I can find the silver lining and a life lesson. In addition, my writing has an underlying message of humor, goodwill, and I hope kindness. Of standing in our own center whatever that means to each of us. I also love to hear other people’s stories to share and shine the light on these stories which are inspirational and motivating. Coaching people to find and use their voice is another area that I am extremely proud to share. I had no idea my social work skills would be so valuable. Another specialty of mine is being able to read anything and know exactly how to smooth it, make it shine and bring it to life. My optimism, sense of fairness and sense of humor set me apart. I am incredibly good at picking up on energy and have learned who I enjoy working with as well as how to collaborate in the best sense for everyone.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Trust yourself. Know deep in your heart and soul what you are good at. Show people that and follow through with hard work. Figure out what you need to learn and stay open to whatever that means. Take as many trainings as you need. Network, network, and then network a little more. Find your people. TRUST your gut. If something sounds too good to be true, it is. Get paid upfront and keep spotless records. Know there will be really good days. Follow up on everyone you meet-get the no. If you do get the no, it frees you to find the yes. Take good care of yourself. Get into nature and let your brain create. Dance, do yoga, spend time with your friends and family. Say yes to interesting opportunities. You might need to find a side gig. Stay focused on your long game. Chocolate helps.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.stlouisgirlstorytelling.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571579223118
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pam-wilson-msw-lmsw-115668228/
