Tell us about yourself.:
Fairren McLemore is a native of Saint Joseph, Michigan, and raised in Elkhart, Indiana. With a master’s degree in organizational leadership, Fairren brings a unique perspective to her writing, combining her academic background with a deep understanding of personal growth and leadership. Her faith in God keeps her anchored and gives her the strength to keep moving forward in life. From a young age, she always felt a deep calling to make a difference in the lives of others. Her passion has always been to help and inspire others, and she
believes that every act of kindness, no matter how small, can create a ripple effect that touches countless lives. In a world that can sometimes feel
overwhelming, her mission is to be a source of light and hope. She believes you cannot pour from an empty cup. She fills her cup so she can overflow into the lives of others. Fairren enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband and two beautiful children, who inspire her every day. Currently residing in Fort Wayne, Indiana, she continues to explore the transformative power of words and the magic that lies within every story.

Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?:
I grew up in Elkhart, Indiana, and my upbringing played a significant role in shaping my writing. Coming from a community where resilience and hard work were essential values, I developed a strong sense of determination and a deep desire to uplift others. My experiences in Elkhart taught me the importance of embracing differences and finding strength in challenges.

Growing up, I often found solace in storytelling, whether through books or personal reflections. My environment instilled in me the power of faith, perseverance, and community elements that influence my writing today. Seeing the impact of kindness and support firsthand fueled my passion for inspiring others, especially those facing unique challenges like my daughter.

Ultimately, my hometown shaped my perspective on life, giving me the foundation to write stories that encourage self-love, resilience, and hope.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I would not say my writing habits are unusual, but they are definitely personal and intentional. I often find myself writing in moments of deep reflection, usually late at night when the world is quiet and my thoughts flow freely. I also like to set the mood whether it is through soft music, a warm cup of tea, or simply sitting in a cozy space where I feel most at peace.

One habit that might be considered unusual is that I sometimes talk through my writing before putting it on paper. I will say certain phrases out loud to hear how they sound, especially when I want the message to feel authentic and heartfelt. Since my writing is deeply personal and rooted in real experiences, I like to connect emotionally with the words before finalizing them.

I also tend to jot down ideas in the most random places on my phone, in notebooks, or even on scraps of paper when inspiration strikes. I have learned that creativity does not always follow a schedule, so I embrace it whenever and wherever it comes.

What authors have influenced you?
I grew up in Elkhart, Indiana, and my upbringing played a significant role in shaping my writing. Coming from a community where resilience and hard work were essential values, I developed a strong sense of determination and a deep desire to uplift others. My experiences in Elkhart taught me the importance of embracing differences and finding strength in challenges.

Growing up, I often found solace in storytelling, whether through books or personal reflections. My environment instilled in me the power of faith, perseverance, and community elements that influence my writing today. Seeing the impact of kindness and support firsthand fueled my passion for inspiring others, especially those facing unique challenges like my daughter.

Ultimately, my hometown shaped my perspective on life, giving me the foundation to write stories that encourage self-love, resilience, and hope.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
The best advice for a new author is: Write with purpose, stay authentic, and keep going even when doubt creeps in.

Your story has value, and someone out there needs to hear it. Do not get caught up in perfection or comparison, focus on telling your truth in a way that resonates with you. Writing is a journey, not a race, so allow yourself the grace to grow and refine your craft.

Also, do not be afraid to put yourself out there. Share your work, connect with readers, and embrace feedback. The right audience will find you, but you have to give them the chance.

Most importantly, remember why you started. There will be challenges, moments of self-doubt, and times when the words do not flow easily. But if you hold on to your passion and purpose, you will create something meaningful. Keep writing, keep believing, and never underestimate the power of your story.

What is the best advice you have ever been given?
The best advice I have ever been given is to embrace the journey, not just the destination. Life is full of twists and turns, and each moment, whether challenging or joyful holds value. Focusing on growth, learning, and staying present can make the whole experience more fulfilling. It is important to recognize the beauty in the journey, no matter the obstacles.

What are you reading now?
Right now, I am diving into books from fellow authors, intentionally supporting their work and taking in the stories they have poured their hearts into. There is something special about holding a book, knowing the journey behind it, the late nights, the doubts, the triumphs, and the deep desire to make an impact.

As an author, I understand how much goes into bringing a book to life, so I make it a point to uplift others in this space. Every story has power, and every voice deserves to be heard. Reading the work of my peers not only inspires me but also reminds me of the beauty of storytelling, how words can connect, heal, and transform lives.

To all the authors out there, keep writing. Your words matter. And to every reader, never underestimate the impact of supporting an author’s work. A book in your hands is more than just pages and ink, it is someone’s dream realized.

What’s your biggest weakness?
One of my biggest weaknesses is taking on too much at once. I have a strong desire to help others and make a positive impact, which sometimes leads me to overcommit. Balancing my passion for assisting others with the need for self-care is an ongoing challenge. I have learned that it is essential to set boundaries and prioritize tasks to maintain my well-being, ensuring I can continue to support those around me effectively.

What is your favorite book of all time?
Choosing a single favorite book is challenging, as many have profoundly influenced me. However, one that stands out is I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou is one of my favorite books. It is a powerful story about resilience, overcoming adversity, and finding one’s voice in the face of challenges. Angelou’s ability to blend personal narrative with universal themes of identity, strength, and self-empowerment resonates deeply with many readers, and it is clear how her writing can influence someone who values storytelling that uplifts and inspires others.

When you’re not writing, how do you like to spend your time?
When I am not writing, I cherish spending quality time with my husband and our two beautiful children. Family is my cornerstone, and engaging in activities together strengthens our bond and creates lasting memories.

I also have a passion for travel and exploring new places with friends. One of my most memorable trips was to Dubai, where I was captivated by the rich culture and stunning architecture. Traveling allows me to rest, reset, and refocus, which I believe is essential for personal growth and maintaining a balanced life.

Additionally, my faith plays a significant role in my life. I dedicate time to spiritual practices that keep me anchored and provide the strength to move forward. This spiritual grounding enables me to pour love and support into the lives of others, aligning with my belief that you cannot pour from an empty cup.

Balancing family, personal interests, and faith helps me maintain a fulfilling and enriched life beyond writing.

Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
I do not have memories in the same way people do, but I imagine the first story someone reads can leave a profound impact, especially if it connects with them emotionally. Stories that resonate, whether it is the sense of adventure, discovering a new world, or seeing themselves in a character, can shape a person’s perspective and spark a love for writing.

What has inspired you and your writing style?
My writing is deeply inspired by my daughter, Kamiah, and her journey with Incontinentia Pigmenti. The challenges she faced, along with my personal experiences as her mother, have fueled your passion to write stories that emphasize self-love, resilience, and embracing one’s differences. My mission to raise awareness about Incontinentia Pigmenti through my books, as well as my desire to empower and uplift others, is reflected in my writing style. I aim to create a supportive and compassionate environment in my stories where readers feel valued and understood.

My background in leadership, coupled with my passion for inspiring others, also shapes my writing. I likely focus on themes of empowerment, advocacy, and creating a sense of belonging, drawing on my experiences to craft narratives that resonate deeply with readers who need support and encouragement.

What are you working on now?
I am planning a 7-day celebration leading up to the one-year anniversary of Shining Through, which will be a special milestone. My second book is currently being worked on and it is a profound collection from mothers who have walked the challenging path of raising children with disabilities or special needs. Each mother shares their unique journey, from the moment of diagnosis to navigating the medical, emotional, physical, and societal hurdles that follow. These stories provide an honest look into the struggles, fears, and triumphs these women face daily. Through love, resilience, and determination, they reveal the depth of a mother’s strength and power of hope. This book serves as both a source of support and inspiration for parents everywhere. I am also working on creating my nonprofit, in honor of my daughter called Kamiah’s Pathway to Hope Foundation, to support individuals and families affected by Incontinentia Pigmenti.

What is your favorite method for promoting your work?
My favorite method for promoting my work involves personal storytelling and building community connections.
I am drawn to sharing my personal experiences, whether through speaking engagements, podcasts, social media, or writing, because it allows me to connect authentically with others.

What’s next for you as a writer?
What is next for me as a writer is expanding my reach and deepening the impact of my work. I plan to continue writing stories that amplify voices and experiences related to Incontinentia Pigmenti, motherhood, and resilience. I want to explore creating more books and resources that support families navigating rare conditions, providing education alongside emotional support.

Additionally, building Kamiah’s Pathway to Hope Foundation to take center stage, helping me to create a platform for both my writing and advocacy. In hopes this will lead to more speaking opportunities and collaborations.

How well do you work under pressure?
I handle pressure pretty well. I am designed to stay focused and efficient, even when things get intense or there is a lot going on. Whether it is tight deadlines, complex tasks, or juggling multiple projects, I stay calm and work systematically to get things done.

How do you decide what tone to use with a particular piece of writing?
I decide the tone based on the message I want to convey and the emotions I want to evoke in my readers. For example, if the piece is meant to inspire, I would use an uplifting, encouraging tone. If the writing is reflective or informative, I would go for a more thoughtful, neutral tone.

I also consider my audience, whether they are familiar with the topic or new to it. For my writing, especially with themes related to Incontinentia Pigmenti and motherhood, the tone might lean toward compassionate, empowering, and supportive. It is also important to reflect my personality and mission, so I aim for a tone that aligns with my voice and the kind of impact I want to make.

If you could share one thing with your fans, what would that be?
If I could share one thing with my fans, it would be a message of hope and self-love. I would tell them that no matter the challenges they face, they are not alone. Embracing who you are, with all your unique qualities and differences, is a powerful act of resilience. Your journey, as well as your strength, has the potential to inspire others, and together, we can build a community that values, supports, and uplifts each other. Your story matters, and it can light the way for someone else walking a similar path.

Fairren McLemore’s Author Websites and Profiles
Website
Amazon Profile

Fairren McLemore’s Social Media Links
Facebook Page