18Q Lorne Epstein

Lorne Epstein

1. Did you choose the writing profession or did it choose you?

It chose me. In the summer of 2003 I was struggling with my company that made a positive difference for other people. Upon coming home one night I started to yell at god, curse her for bringing me to this work and not helping me out with its growth. I complained that all Neale Walsh had to do was write a book and now he makes a huge difference for folks and earns a living. And here I was making a difference for folks and not earning a living, loosing money, and struggling in all areas of my life. The next morning I woke up from a dream where I heard the title for my book “You’re Hired! Interview skills to get the job”. Over the next two days I wrote the entire outline for the book and 18 months later it was finished and in my hands. I had never wanted to be a writer and am to this day not a writer. I am a communicator, possibly message giver, but not a writer.

2. What is your background? (education, work, etc.)

I have a BSBA from the University of Hartford. I started my career in a high technology start up and always wanted to be close to tech work. I love technology and all the things people can create and it’s influence on our lives. I have been a recruiter for the past 10 plus years and have had over 40 jobs in my life. Everything from Emergency Medical Technician to Starbucks counter person. My income has ranged from $5 per hour to $115 per hour as a recruiter in Silicon Valley. I grew up in Brooklyn, New York, and come from being raised by a single mom who’s dad left at the age of five.

3. When did you ‘know’ you were a writer?

Like I said, I don’t consider myself a writer. I am an author, but not a writer.

4. How would you describe your style of writing?

Very personal, as if you were listening to me speak.

5. What is your writing process?

I guess “I had a dream”

6. What was your path to publication?

I am very independent and did not want to grovel to publishers and spend money asking people to help me publish my book. I read a how to self publish book and formed my own publishing company. My book is in several stores and on Amazon.com.

7. What is your favorite self-marketing idea?

Write for a newspaper and having your own podcast.

8. What are the biggest surprises you’ve encountered as a writer?

People love it when you sign their book.

9. How do you inspire yourself? What are your sources of creativity?

I am always inspired by the difference I make for others and the world in its entirety. I am clear that my life’s work and purpose is being expressed in what I do.

10. What is your proudest writer moment?

My brother read my manuscript and used what I wrote and got the job he wanted.

11. What’s the best advice you were given about writing?

I am still too new to know that any of the advice I have been given is best.

12. What is your most embarrassing writer moment?

Having typographical errors in my first edition.

13. What business challenges have you faced as a writer?

Paying for stuff and not earning money as quickly.

14. What is your writer life philosophy?

Everything is possible, never give up, having big dreams and doing whatever it takes to make them real for you and the world.

15. When you’re not writing what do you do for fun?

Be with my fiancé, interview people for my podcast, run, and play backgammon.

16. Who do you like to read?

Technical and business magazines.

17. What’s your advice for new writers?

Write and publish yourself. Get a good proof reader and make sure it is free of writing errors.

18. What are you currently working on?

You’re Hired! Radio, a podcast on iTunes all about jobs and careers with the overarching purpose to support people in having Joyful Jobs and Satisfying Careers.

Lorne’s 18Q