In this episode of The Joy Work Show, Diane welcomes Lou Emerson and they explore the journey of finding joy and purpose through personal challenges and career changes. Lou shares her transition from a successful solicitor to a crime writer, emphasising the importance of following one's passion and the role of community in navigating life's difficulties. They discuss the complexities of motherhood, particularly in relation to parenting and advocating for a child with autism, and the challenges posed by the education system.
The conversation highlights the power of storytelling and connection in creating joy and resilience in the face of adversity.
In this conversation, Lou Emerson shares her journey through family challenges, health struggles, and the transformative power of writing. She discusses her experiences with vertigo, anxiety, and the importance of finding a diagnosis. Lou emphasises the role of creativity in her healing process and how it led her to write cozy crime novels. Lou also introduces her business, a cozy crime subscription box with a difference & her mission to create immersive reading experiences that connect readers with stories on a deeper level.
Throughout the discussion, themes of resilience, personal growth, and the joy of storytelling emerge, showcasing Lou's commitment to inspiring others through her work.
Connect with Lou:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lou.collins.emerson
https://www.facebook.com/groups/lousclues
Instagram: @louloveb00ks
Website: https://cozyreadbooks.com
The Joy Work Club and Me
Join The Joy Work Club Community Here
www.taylorparkerservicesltd.com
Instagram:@dianetaylorparker
@thejoyworkclub
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Lou Emerson and Cosy Crime
04:21 The Journey into Writing Cosy Crime
08:29 Transition from Law to Writing
12:44 The Impact of Early Career Choices
17:42 Becoming a Parent and Career Changes
22:42 Navigating Parenthood and Career Challenges
32:58 The Decision to Have a Child
37:49 Recognising Differences in Child Development
42:03 Navigating the Education System
47:21 The Impact of Diagnosis
52:51 Health Challenges and Their Effects
59:02 Finding Purpose Through Writing
01:07:03 The Journey to Writing a Book
01:09:10 Finding Courage in Adversity
01:11:47 Self-Perception and Expectations
01:14:28 Rediscovering Creativity
01:17:17 Building a Business Around Passion
01:22:47 Creating Immersive Reading Experiences
01:27:18 The Power of Stories and Joy
01:32:23 Inspiration from Family
01:35:22 Challenging Societal Expectations
01:39:12 Leaving a Legacy of Joy
01:39:57 The Power of Following Your Passion
01:41:45 Building Community and Resilience
01:42:41 Rewriting Your Life Story
Sound Bites
"Writing is blooming hard work."
"It was horrible, vertigo."
"I was in such a bad place."
Takeaways
Success isn't about sticking to the plan; it's about following what lights you up.
You can rewrite your story at any point in your life.
Connection is everything and can change anything.
Writing is hard work, and you need to enjoy it to succeed.
The power of storytelling connects and creates joy.
Motherhood brings unique challenges, especially with children who have special needs.
The education system often fails to accommodate diverse learning needs.
Personal struggles can fuel creativity and passion.
It's okay to make bold moves and change your path.
Finding a diagnosis can be a long and frustrating process.
Writing became a therapeutic outlet for Lou during difficult times.
Creativity can be rediscovered at any stage in life.
Building a community around cozy crime can enhance the reading experience.
Immersive reading experiences can deepen the connection to stories.
Lou's children inspire her daily and shape her perspective on life.
Leaving a legacy of joy through storytelling is a powerful goal.
