Monday, June 20, 2016

5 Questions With Jennifer Brown Banks


Many of you are aware that Jennifer Brown Banks is a multi published veteran freelance writer. But did you know that she's also the manager at Coffeehouse for Writers? She's currently featuring a series on her blog, Pen and Prosper, called 5 Questions that interviews the CFW instructors. (You might remember my interview there a few weeks ago.).

Since Jennifer is so good at interviewing others, I thought it'd be fun to ask her to step up to the mic for a change. Let's see if we can surprise you with the "little known Jennifer facts" revealed here. 


Welcome, Jennifer! Would you care to share a little about yourself and your background? 

Sure. First of all, it’s a pleasure to be here; thank you for having me today. Where do I start? 

I have a very diverse professional and creative background. My career span has included: crunching numbers, working as an office manager in public relations, freelance writing, telemarketing, and online teaching (to name a few). Though my degrees are in Business, my passion is in writing. 

I knew your background was diverse but had no idea it included telemarketing. That must have been an interesting experience. Tell us, did you always want to be a writer? How did you know for sure? 

Growing up as a shy and awkward teen, words were my refuge. I did well in my academic studies, (particularly English and creative arts), but never really viewed writing as a career. My mom actually convinced me to seek publication for my work, and the rest, as they say…”is history.” 

Way to go, Mom! What foresight she had. You are blessed to have that support and encouragementWhat book title best describes your life or writing philosophy? 

I’d have to say “The Purpose Driven Life” by Rick Warren. 

Now there's a good title to live by! What would it surprise us to learn about you? 

Let’s see…that I’m extremely disciplined, (except for eating). I hardly ever miss an episode of the game show Jeopardy. I love herbal teas. I’m a good dancer. And that I can “rock the mic” at karaoke! 

Well, if it makes you feel any better, disciplined eating is not my specialty either. Lol :) What’s your favorite creative, but non-writing activity? 

I love to read, listen to music, shop at antique and thrift shops, make gift baskets, hang out with other creatives, and cook. 

Sounds like a great way to unwind and recharge. Thanks so much for joining us, Jennifer!

Thanks again, Karen!

Jennifer's Bio

Jennifer Brown Banks is a veteran freelance writer, award-winning blogger, writing instructor, and herbal tea lover. You can learn more about her at her blog, Pen and Prosper, or take her popular blogging classes at the Coffeehouse for Writers

More on Jennifer  

Stop by her blog and check out her book of poetry, 7 Wide, on Amazon. 


Just in Case You Didn't Know

The Coffeehouse for Writers offers quality, affordable online courses for writers at any level. Courses include Basic Boot Camp, Blogging for Profit or Pleasure, Making a Living as a Freelance Writer, Writing for Chicken Soup for the Soul, and Creating Characters. If those don't strike your fancy, CFW's classes also cover journaling, stress relief, editing your work in progress, and breaking into ebooks. For more info, visit the CFW site

Did you learn anything new about Jennifer? Have you ever taken any writing courses? What might we be surprised to learn about you?

Happy writing,
Karen

27 comments :

  1. Great to meet Jennifer. So awesome that her mom supported her in her writing and got her started in pursuing her dream.

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  2. Hi Karen - good to learn more about Jennifer and see her featured here. She's had some interesting jobs that have obviously rolled into her writing life ... most I didn't know about Jennifer - but how wonderful her mother pushed her to submit her work ... a great supporter - clever mother! Cheers to you both - Hilary

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  3. Natalie,
    Happy to introduce the two of you. Jennifer is a gem! :) Nothing like having mom cheer you on, right?

    Hilary,
    I know, right? I learned some new items about her too! :) Indeed, her mother was very clever.

    Happy writing,
    Karen

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  4. Good for mom!
    I'll have to check out Coffeehouse for Writers.

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    1. Lovely, Alex. I'm sure you'll find some interesting "brews" at the Coffeehouse. :-)

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  5. Nice to meet you Jennifer! And yeah, hooray for supportive moms.

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    1. Hi H.R.,

      Hooray indeed! Thanks for stopping by today. :-)

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  6. Alex,
    I agree, what a great mom! :) Let us know what you think of the CHW site if you have time, okay?

    Holly,
    Glad you got to meet Jennifer! Supportive moms are great! :)

    Happy writing,
    Karen

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  7. Jennifer's interests and likes are similar to mine, with one exception. If I tried karaoke, folks would ask me to sing far-far away. Jen offers a wealth of information on her blog.

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    Replies
    1. Jennifer Brown BanksWednesday, June 22, 2016

      Aww, that's so kind of you. Thanks so much, Lin.

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  8. And I thought I'd career hopped a few times. I like Karaoke but I don't rock the mic one bit.

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    1. Jennifer Brown BanksWednesday, June 22, 2016

      I appreciate your feedback here!

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  9. Linda,
    LOL - yeah, I'm thinking that might happen with me and karaoke too. Glad you stopped by! :)

    Diane,
    You just never know how you'll get to where you're going, do you? :) No rocking the mic here either.

    Happy writing,
    Karen

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  10. Jennifer, so nice to see you here! Your advice and personality are a boon to all the writers who are in your orbit. Keep on rockin'!

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    1. Jennifer Brown BanksWednesday, June 22, 2016

      Sue,

      Thanks for being a constant "cheerleader." :-) Glad you're on my team.

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  11. I'm with Karen. Way to go, Mom! I always admire those who start in the business world. That's definitely not my forte, so I guess that's why I admire it.

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  12. Words were also my refuge as a teenager. Jennifer is experienced and multi-talented with all of her career experience.

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  13. Crystal,
    Yes, I admire that too. Jennifer is quite the inspiration! :)

    Medeia,
    She is indeed! It's a privilege to know and work with her. :)

    Happy writing,
    Karen

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  14. Nice to meet you, Jennifer! That is so cool that your mom encouraged you. I love it when families spur one another on!

    I like herbal teas, too! Speaking of which, it's time to head to the kitchen for another mug...

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  15. Hello Karen, and good to meet you Jennifer :)

    I wish you both a good weekend!

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  16. Susanne,
    Glad you got to meet Jen! Appreciate you chiming in. :)

    Keith,
    Hello to you! Hope you are enjoying your weekend as well!

    Happy weekend
    Karen

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  17. Great to have Jennifer on your blog Karen, thanks!

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  18. Marja,
    Appreciate you stopping to see us. It's fun learning more about Jen, isn't it?:)
    Happy writing,
    Karen

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  19. Thanks for the interview with Jennifer. Nice to meet you, Jennifer. I think it's great you do these introductory interviews, Karen. Susan

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  20. Susan,
    You are welcome! It's such a pleasure to have Jen visit! :)
    Happy writing,
    Karen

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Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts. Have a blessed day!