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Ellen Postolowski is a first time author (It’s Just Personal) and full-time personal chef.  In her book she stresses the importance of nourishing your body from the inside out in order to get results you will see and feel. Ellen’s love for the diversity of food and her desire to look and feel her best have motivated her to create delicious as well as nutritious meals and snacks. For learn more about Ellen, her book and her passion with food please visit her bog at chefellen.com

Thank you Ellen for taking the time to answer some questions for us!  Please tell us about your latest project.
 
My latest project is the release (July 09') of my first book/cookbook, It's Just Personal with Morgan James Publishing. This project was off the ground and running over three years ago when I was first approached to be a co-author on the project. Fast forward 3+ years and I have completed this book on my own, happily with a second one in the works.

Do you also do speaking engagements, or seminars?

Mostly charity related events and cooking demonstrations with adults and children

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?

My writing success has gotten me more attention in my profession as an expert in my field. The success of my book in my profession has also opened numerous doors for me  as a published author.

Since the release of my book is so new, I am focusing on building grass roots. I am acknowledging the sudden fame, recognition and definitely enjoying the moment.

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

Since the release of my book, my readers are getting in contact with me via my website, blog and Facebook Group to compliment the recipes, ideas. tips and the abundance of easy to follow information I have provided throughout the book. It is a wonderful feeling when someone else "gets" what you are attempting to convey.

What will your next project be?

Another book, non-fiction, non-food related love story

Who inspires you on a personal or business level?

Anyone close to my heart as well as my positive and successful friends.

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

My cooking profession is my passion. When it done at my discretion, I blossom. My most recent rewarding experience was the opportunity to make dinner for a group of old and new friends at a beach house. I received the ultimate compliment of complete silence as the group happily devoured the crab meat  enchiladas I prepared. I acknowledged this silence with a big smile on my face.

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

You only get what you put into it. Believe in yourself and your work and ask a lot of questions. Go or find someone who has published before and pick their brain when you are unsure. Determination is key and roadblocks are just a test of strength.

How did you get started as a writer?

Good question. I had to write a 500 word essay in high school on why doing homework was important in order to pass an Algebra class. Needless to say, I passed.

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

Living an Uncommon Life - John St.Augustine
 
What does a typical work day look like for you?

I am up before the marines and go to bed when I fall down.  A typical day is working out at 5:45 am. From there I cook for clients, work on book promotions, answer emails, write letters, send out books and attempt a nice dinner at the end of the day. Oh, and in between I try to visit my nieces as often as I can. From there it's back to bed hopefully by 10 pm.

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

My literature professor in college, Dr. Anthony Padavano. He didn't necessarily spark an interest in writing for me more than he sparked and emphasized the overall passion that writers put into their own works. The way he pointed that out, to me, was amazing.

Who is your favorite writer/author?

Elizabeth Barret Browning

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

Brandy Your a Fine Girl by Gordon Lightfoot. I can't get that song out of my head lately.

Thank you Ellen! Congratulations on the release of your first cookbook It’s Just Personal!