Interview with author Jean D Francis

Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

A: Hello, Everyone! I am a woman who wears multiple hats with grace and excellence–an adjunct professor, entrepreneur, writer, wife, and mother.

My passion for education and writing has led me to become a respected university professor, where I inspire and empower students to achieve their full potential in becoming exceptional leaders.

As an entrepreneur, I have founded and am growing a successful business, demonstrating my entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen.

Many of my writings have been published in notable publications, showcasing my exceptional talent for crafting engaging and thought-provoking content. And I am exceedingly proud of my accomplishments for authoring my current memoir, Naked Truth, which is no different.

As a devoted wife and mother, I balance my personal and professional life with ease, while setting an example for others to follow. Whether in the classroom, boardroom, or at home, my unwavering dedication and unwavering commitment to excellence have made me an inspiration to all who cross her path.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Naked Truth”?

A. The challenges I faced while writing my book was to put into writing the pain and difficult experiences I encountered in the workplace based on discrimination and retaliation. The reason being is that writing about discrimination and retaliation can be challenging for many reasons:
Firstly, these are sensitive and emotionally charged topics that can evoke strong reactions from readers. Hence, as a writer, I needed to navigate complex and nuanced issues surrounding my experience with discrimination and retaliation.
Secondly, writing about discrimination and retaliation can be emotionally draining and psychologically taxing, particularly if you have experienced these issues personally. Therefore, I needed to confront my painful memories, feelings of anger, frustration, and helplessness, and the fear of retribution or further discrimination.

Finally, it can be challenging to strike the right tone and balance when writing about discrimination and retaliation. I needed to convey the seriousness and urgency of the issue while also being sensitive to the experiences and perspectives of different groups of people. I also needed to avoid stereotypes, generalizations, or assumptions and ensure that my writing is inclusive, respectful, and empathetic.

Overall, writing about discrimination and retaliation requires bravery, empathy, and a deep commitment to social justice. It is a challenging but necessary task for those who seek to promote equality, fairness, and human dignity.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

A. The books or authors influencing my own writing include: The white Wall by Emily Flitter; Becoming by Michelle Obama, and Finding Me by Viola Davis

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

A. At this point in my life, I don’t have a favorite place to travel. I love traveling, and I want to travel the world. Hence, every year I choose a place that I have never been before to gain new experiences and meet new people and culture. This experience excites me.

Q5. Is there lots to do before you dive in and start writing a book?

A. There was lots to do before diving in and starting writing my book. After organizing the material to be used in the book, it all came together smoothly.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Naked Truth’?

A. The process of writing my book Naked Truth took me about six months to develop a rough draft. However, the process of editing the draft took exactly two-and-a half years to complete. In the end, I declared it a masterpiece because of the help of my exceptional editors and reviewers. For this, I am grateful.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A. Readers’ are able to purchase my book on various platforms such as: Amazon, Ingram, and Barnes and Nobles.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Naked Truth’?

A. The process of coming up with the book cover was easy. There were two covers to choose from, one with my photo and the other with the scale of justice. After a cover poll created by my publisher, Koehlerbooks, the cover with my photo was highly preferred. I concurred.

Regarding the title, I thought “Naked Truth” was a good fit because of the lies that were launched against me at my workplace in retaliation for filing multiple complaints about discrimination and retaliation. My naked truth would be to address the lies and speak truth to power in getting to results.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

A. When writing my book, I keep things fresh for both my readers and myself by doing a few things. One, I read newly published memoirs that are best sellers to gain insights for enhancing a certain chapter or phrase for my book. Second, I step away from my desk and travel to free my mind, learn new things, and relieve the stress of writing–but I never forget to come back to the writing process. Finally, I keep reminding myself on a daily basis why I was writing my book. And when I focused on my “whys” I was motivated daily to continue my writing, complete my manuscript, and share my story to the world to motivate and inspire others to tell their truth. I am glad I did.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A. The most valuable piece of advice I’ve given about writing was from Les Brown when he stated that “The graveyard is the richest place on earth, because it is here that you will find all the hopes and dreams that were never fulfilled, the books that were never written, the songs that were never sung, the inventions that were never shared, the cures that were never discovered, all because some was too afraid to take the first step, keep the problem, or determined to carry out their dream.” In this regard, I decided that I would never be in this category. So, I took the first step, wrote my book and shared my story to make a positive impact, not only in my local community, but the world. My prayer is that I have done just that.

Buy Naked Truth on Amazon

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