In this heartfelt episode of Life-Changing Challengers, host Brad Minus interviews Cathlelina Duvert, teacher, blogger, and author of The Box. Cathlelina opens up about her life as a Haitian-American growing up in Queens, New York, and how she navigated cultural expectations, social anxiety, and depression. From her early days as a creative writing student to her career in publishing and eventual transition to teaching, Cathlelina’s journey is one of resilience and transformation.
Cathlelina shares how writing became her outlet for processing emotions, her experiences with therapy and alternative strategies for managing depression, and the 25-year journey it took to publish her novel. Her insights into the power of storytelling, self-expression, and finding purpose in challenging times provide a roadmap for anyone seeking inspiration and healing.
Episode Highlights:
- [1:00] – Growing up in a Haitian-American household and adjusting to cultural differences in Queens, New York.
- [10:30] – Cathlelina’s journey through Catholic school, social anxiety, and discovering her love for creative writing.
- [19:30] – Breaking stereotypes and excelling as a Hofstra University student after being told she wouldn’t get in.
- [27:50] – Transitioning from a publishing career to teaching after the loss of her father and redefining her purpose.
- [35:00] – Battling depression, her experiences with therapy and medication, and finding alternative methods of healing through community, meditation, and writing.
- [45:00] – Publishing The Box after decades of perseverance and its deeply personal exploration of mental health and resilience.
Key Takeaways:
- Writing and self-expression can be powerful tools for processing emotions and overcoming challenges.
- Support systems, whether through community, therapy, or family, are essential for healing and growth.
- Strategies like meditation, journaling, and reading can complement traditional therapies in managing depression.
- It’s never too late to pursue your dreams—Cathlelina published her first book at 50 after 25 years of effort.
- Identifying and addressing personal challenges, like social anxiety or depression, is the first step to transformation.
Links & Resources:
- Cathlelina Duvert’s Website: https://cathlelinaduvert.kit.com – Learn more about her novel and subscribe to her newsletter.
- Cathlelina’s Book: The Box – Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
- Follow Cathlelina on Facebook: @TheBoxthebook
- Follow Cathlelina on Instagram: @CathlelinaDuvert – Discover her monologues and daily reflections.
- Contact Cathlelina: Subscribe to her newsletter via her
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