Interview with Mardi Kirkland

Author of Who’s Pulling My Strings?

Where are you from originally and where do you reside now?

Originally from the NW. Grew up in Seattle, and after college lived in Portland, OR. I now live in Scottsdale, AZ

If you currently reside somewhere besides where you were born, what’s the story that lead from there to here?

It was a corporate move. The company wanted to promote me, and required a move. At the time I was interested in Phoenix, and the company made it happen. That was the start of a completely new life.

What made you decide to write and publish your first book?

I had been on a journey of self-exploration for a number of years when I first considered writing a book. Listening to people around me, including my children, frequently complaining and blaming others for their problems, and knowing I had a different point of view was my first motivation. About that time I attended a class, “You Can Finish That Book,” at an independent book store, and I propelled to go for it.

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

“Who’s Pulling My Strings” takes the reader beyond theory and lists of things to do to change your life. It shares the journey, shows what it will be like to take these life-changing steps, and what to do when obstacles seem to be blocking your path.

As you travel with me on my journey, you feel like I am also your companion on the expedition to your inner universe, understanding your fears, encouraging you to touch your core and find your heart. I talk with the reader as if we are sitting in their living room having an intimate conversation.

Who do you feel is most likely to connect with the topics you write about?

Readers of any age who know there’s more, are looking for more, and not sure where to find it. Readers who are interested in self-discovery and personal growth, who are growing beyond the beliefs they’ve lived with since childhood.

What unexpected or surprising thing did you learn during the process of writing and publishing?

I learned I write best when I write from an authentic and vulnerable space. When I began writing my intention was to write a tongue in cheek view of blaming others and caring what they think about us instead of looking inside and being the one who defines and gives approval. The writing took on a life of its own, and before long I realized that what I was doing was sharing the raw truth of my own journey.

If you could, what advice would you give to your past self before embarking on this journey?

The journey doesn’t end with the writing. Have vision and look beyond, learn everything you can about publishing and marketing. Have a plan in place before you finish the book. Writing the book was an organic experience that surprised me. I was naive and needed to educate myself on the publishing and marketing aspect. I also needed to create a generous marketing/sales budget.

How many people would you ideally like to reach with your books?

Since I believe my books have a broad appeal to men and women looking for “more” and the “whys” for where they are in life, I can’t put a number on it. I would like to see it have global reach — no ceiling.

What has been the biggest challenge and frustration during the process to date?

The biggest challenge and frustration is making people aware of me and my books. I did self-publish so “getting the word out” was/is up to me. It has also been a challenge to know who you can trust to have a plan that actually does deliver on getting the coverage and awareness they promise.

What’s your biggest strengths when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

Writing is easily my biggest strength. Once I surrender to being “real” in my writing, it flows easily.

What’s your biggest weakness when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

At this point it is definitely, marketing.

When do you think you will write your next book?

I have already written a second book, which is actually a companion writing journal to the first book. It is a guide to one taking their own journey of self-discovery. I know there is a next book as I feel I am currently in the midst of the continuation of my journey, that I will share.

Are you self published or did you use a hybrid publisher, or a traditional publisher?

I am self published.