I was recently asked to be a guest on a popular parenting podcast. Solo Moms! TALK is a place for moms to connect and explore the challenges they face in raising children alone.
No matter where we are in our mom journeys, we can always use a sisterhood of supporters to help us not only survive, but thrive. And one of these amazing supporters is J. Rosemarie Francis–a blogger, writer, and creator and host of Solo Moms! TALK. I was so intrigued and delighted by her through our podcast connection that I asked if she’d allow me to turn the tables and interview her. And you’re in luck because she said YES!
It is my privilege today to introduce you to real-life Wonder Woman, J. Rosemarie Francis!
KR: Welcome, J. Rosemarie! Would you please start by telling us about what brings you joy and fulfillment?
JRF: When I’m able to shine my light into someone else’s life. For example, when someone expresses how listening to the stories on my podcast, SoloMoms! Talk has helped them.
I also enjoy traveling and getting to make new friends and learning about a new culture. I spend a lot of time reading and learning. I use real places in the fiction I read to influence my travels. For example, my upcoming trip to San Juan Islands was influenced by Tammy L Grace’s Hometown Harbor series.
My ultimate dream is to combine my passion for travel with my passion for single moms. I want to interview solo moms all over the world for SoloMoms! Talk.
Finally, I share my thoughts on mindset and my own personal stories on my blog at www.solomoms.net and on Medium.
KR: We all have unique inner superpowers. What are some of yours?
JRF: Empathy, compassion, and the ability to see each person as God sees them. When I meet a new person, even if I heard something bad about them before, I treat them as if I never heard anything about them.
Also the ability to read between the lines. I seem to have a sixth sense about things in general.
KR: Can you tell us about an influential woman in your life and how she inspired you?
JRF: That’s a tough one. Unfortunately, none that I know personally. But I’ve been touched by the way Oprah Winfrey has pulled through difficulty and has influenced the lives of millions. I admire her courage to not let her race, her origin story, or the lies people told her, prevent her from succeeding at what she loves.
KR: If you could have one super-human power, what would it be?
JRF: The ability to mend a broken heart.
KR: What do you do for fun? What are your hobbies?
JRF: I read a lot. Sometimes a book each day. I also write a lot. I do not publish a lot of what I write. I write poetry, non-fiction, and fiction.
One of my favorite hobbies is to explore neighborhoods and parks. I will travel somewhere and just spend time walking the neighborhoods, trying out their french fries, etc.
I’m also drawn to water. If a place have a lake or an ocean I’m inexplicably drawn to it. Maybe being Picean has something to do with it. Even if I can’t swim. Lol.
KR: Knowing what you know at this stage of your life, what words of wisdom would you give to your 20-year-old self?
JRF: Pay more attention to your mindset. Love yourself. I would tell her that the way she thinks affects her life more than she knows. I would tell her it doesn’t matter who abandoned her. She deserves to be loved, unconditionally. And finally, be careful not to let fear drive your decision making.
KR: Want to learn more about this real-life Wonder Woman?
Tune in to SoloMoms! Talk podcast.
