Katie Melko shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Katie, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I’ve falling back in love with nature. It brings so much joy, peace and a sense of relief for my mental health when I get to go outside and hike, camp or just even read.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Katie Melko, I’m a travel writer, author and photographer. I generally take landscape photography and most of my IG is of just that. I’m currently working on an itinerary and guide to Italy. I’ll be traveling to Italy for a month in September. Very excited for this opportunity and while there I will also be working on my romance suspense novel. I love traveling, being outdoors, adventure, dogs and wine. Those interests intertwine and have become my love language so to speak. I absolutely can not stress enough – to go out and see the world. It’s magical and their is beauty everywhere.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My relationship with my mom has been monumentally impactful and how I see myself as adult. She gave me the strength and push to always want more, push for more and let me know that I deserve what I set myself out to achieve. She inspired me to get my masters degree and always stood beside me with my passion projects. Just knowing her and how she is as a person was so inspiring for me- her passion, care for others and dedication to her family and patients was incredible to see. She is selfless and a giver. I want to be just like her.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, multiple times. I self-published my children book series, and I have 7 books in the series. Every time I put out a new book, the self-doubt and the difficulty in pushing a self-published book is very intimidating and grueling to be very honest. The things that happen beat you down and make you question if your books are good enough. It’s in those times that I remind myself – my why- why did I start this journey and that usually helps get me back on track. Self-publishing- entrepreneurship is a very difficult path. Keep pushing forward and don’t give up!
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
My books are something I whole heartedly believe in. It takes a lot of guts to publish something for the world to judge and ridicule. I keep pushing forward and always trying to make my current book better than my last and take the good with the bad. Photography is the same way. I’m always trying to take my best picture.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
I would stop being a paid dental hygienist. I would travel to less fortunate areas and provide free dental care. It has been a bucket list passion project to start a non profit for this exact thing.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.katiemelko.com
- Instagram: @adventurous_kate_57
- Facebook: facebook.com/Katie Melko Travel Writer
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