Kathryn Starke’s Stories, Lessons & Insights

Kathryn Starke shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Hi Kathryn, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What is a normal day like for you right now?
What I love about running my publishing company is that every day is different. Sometimes I’m meeting with potential new authors, sometimes I’m writing, and other times I’m editing. I love collaborating with authors, illustrators, designers, creating marketing people, publicists, and brand partners. I’m doing a much better job of structuring my weekdays and enjoying my evenings and weekends.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Kathryn Starke, an international literacy consultant and founder/CEO of Creative Minds Publications, an award-winning publishing company. I’m the author of six books. My company publishes engaging and educational children’s books and inspiring, motivational titles for readers of all ages. I am a former inner-city elementary school teacher and reading specialist, so teaching the world to read has always been a focus of mine. I’m the creator of the 10th annual Tackle Reading event supported by the National Football League. Our company turns 20 this year, so to celebrate, we are publishing 20 books.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My immediate family, my parents and two younger sisters, have always seen my true self, the real me.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self not to worry about what others think. Some people will love you, and some people will not like you no matter what you do, so just be yourself and the right people will come to you.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, and I realized it this year after I spoke at the World Literacy Summit and had so many people tell me how real I am. It occurred to me that not everyone is showing us their real self.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I know I’m doing what I was born to do, but I had no idea I would be a published author or CEO of a publishing company. I always dreamed of becoming an elementary school teacher, which I did for over a decade then became a literacy consultant. Today, I am consultant and keynote speaker for teachers.

I have been writing and creating stories for as long as I can remember, and I love sharing my passion and purpose in reading and writing with others. I’m fortunate to have grown up in a household that encouraged us to dream big and follow our heart’s desires. I’m definitely doing what I was born to do.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
All Photos credit of Kathryn Starke
Team Reading credit of Detroit Lions

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