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Ann Fry, is a clinical social worker by degree, but currently a professional speaker and an executive and transition coach. She works with companies and individuals when they are ready for things to be different ... when they want to "reinvent." Ann moved to NYC at age 60 for a new adventure in life. She left Austin, TX, where she had lived for 20 years bound for the Big Apple. Since then she's revved up her speaking business, written two books and is having a blast. Ann has had many careers in her life, from Special Education teacher, to university professor to social worker to speaker/coach ... and she's a mother and a former wife as well. Ann can be found at www.annfry.com

Thank you Ann for answering a few questions for us!  To start, please tell us about your latest project.
 
I recently self-published a book about myself and my ReInvention at age 60. The books is called:  Sixty, Sexy, Sassy and Free: A Real Woman's Story of ReInvention. It follows me for 3 years, as I consider a move from Austin, TX to NYC .... a 10-day visit to the Big Apple to see if it's viable and then the first  2 1/2 years of living here.

Do you also do speaking engagements, or seminars?

Yes, I'm a professional Speaker and a member of the National Speaker's Assn (for over 12 years.) I keynote at conferences. I also offer public workshops around the country on my process for reinvention.  These are called:   When YOu Want Things to be Different :   7 1/2 Steps to Transcend the Status Quo  (this is also the title of my next book ... due out in September)

How has your education, profession or background helped you in your writing career? Or conversely, how has you writing success helped you in your  profession?

I am a clinical social worker by training ... had a therapy private practice for years.... so I understand the dynamics of behavior. Additionally, I was a college professor (still am an adjunct at NYU) and have had to develop courses, write articles, etc. for years. All of my training and experience have helped tremendously in my writing.

What kind of other works (books, scripts, poems etc.) have you had published?

In 2002 I wrote my first book:  Laughing Matters: The Value of Humor in the Workplace.  And, currently am competing a ReInvention Workbook entitled When You Want Things to be Different :   7 1/2 Steps to Transcend the Status Quo.

Is there any aspect to your profession that gets you in touch with your readers directly?

As a speaker... I have my own websites, a following and send out regular newsletters and emails. and, because I speak, I often get to meet people who read my work.

Who inspires you on a personal or business level?

I am inspired by people that think outside the box ... that take risks to live great lives. There are too many to mention.

What type of work is the most rewarding or satisfying for you?

Keynote speaking ... being in front of an audience and watching their faces light up as they hear something that inspires them to move forward.

What can you recommend for writers who are just getting started and are trying to make a name for themselves?

Just write ... start with articles ... what you know, what you're passionate about ... then move to books. Don't be afraid to self-publish.

How did you get started as a writer?

Teaching and writing curriculum, then articles ...

Which is your favorite book/work published? Is there a favorite?

I think this new book I'm writing is going to be my favorite

What does a typical work day look like for you?

If I'm not traveling to speak, then I work out of my apartment in NYC. I get up, meditate, check email .. and then proceed with day. I coach people by phone, write, go out and network ... always have full days.

Have you ever had a mentor, or someone who sparked your passion for writing?

I've had many mentors and coaches. My first real business coach inspired me to write my first book .. .Laughing Matters ... in a week. He told me to cut and paste from the hundreds of articles and materials I'd developed. So, I took a week, turned off the phone, stayed inside and nailed the draft.

Who is your favorite writer/author?

For fictiion.. I love easy reading ... Mary Higgins Clark, James Patterson ... but things that peak my curiousity and are mysterious. For non-fiction... I read many mangement and leadership books. I like Patrick Lencioni, Marianne Williamson for spiritual

Finally, a most important question: what was the last song you sang out loud when you were by yourself?  :)

The Rose ... by Bette Midler ... Great question ... FUN!

Thank you Ann! We wish you great success with your upcoming book When You Want Things to be Different: 7 1/2 Steps to Transcend the Status Quo!