Fort Collins, CO May 2023

Women of Impact Share Wisdom

FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES

FINANCIAL EMPOWERMENT

LIFE + CULTURE

WOMEN OF IMPACT

ARTS + CULTURE

TRUE LOVE EXPERIMENT

R e s p i t e C a r e , I n c . i s a n o n p r o f i t o r g a n i z a t i o n i n L a r i m e r C o u n t y t h a t p r o v i d e s s h o r t t e r m , q u a l i t y c a r e f o r c h i l d r e n w i t h d e v e l o p m e n t a l d i s a b i l i t i e s , g i v i n g r e s p i t e t o t h e i r f a m i l i e s , a n d e n h a n c i n g t h e q u a l i t y o f l i f e f o r t h e e n t i r e f a m i l y . W e b e l i e v e t h a t a c h i l d w i t h a d i s a b i l i t y i s a c h i l d f i r s t a n d t h a t h i s o r h e r c h a l l e n g e s a r e s e c o n d a r y . W i t h t h i s m i s s i o n a n d p h i l o s o p h y i n m i n d , R e s p i t e C a r e s t r iv e s t o c r e a t e a n i n t e r a c t i v e , s t i m u l a t i n g , a n d s a f e e n v i r o n m e n t t h a t a d d r e s s e s t h e p h y s i c a l , e m o t i o n a l , s o c i a l , a n d m e n t a l n e e d s o f e a c h i n d i v i d u a l c h i l d .

Peace of Mind

We’re Crazy About Empowering Local Community Businesses to Thrive Together

Apply today at locothinktank.com

Builders

5 or fewer employees, Revenue less than $500k, Dedicated to growing Facilitators (left to right): Hunter Wylie, Moses Horner

Thinkers

5-25 employees, Revenue between $500K - $5MM, Committed to solutions

Facilitators: Jaime Cawthorn, Brandon Avery, Mike Gugliotto, Pat Nicholson

Next Level

25 or more employees, Revenue over $5MM, Too big to be small, too small to be big

Facilitators: Drew Yancey, Kim O’Neil

Catalysts

Key employee/leader, reports directly to owner, committed to small business growth & networking

Facilitator: Kristen Truman-Allen

Next Level Catalysts

Key employee/leader of $5MM+ business, reports directly to CEO/President, committed to business growth & networking

Facilitator: Allison Seabeck

Sharing business journeys that inspire and entertain

Influential Women

There's nothing quite like recognizing the amazing women in our lives who inspire us with their strength, grace, and wisdom. From our partners to our friends, mentors, and colleagues, the influential women who surround us are a true source of empowerment.

These women may not always receive the recognition they deserve, but their impact is undeniable. They challenge us to be our best selves, inspire us with their achievements, and support us through our struggles.

Personally, I think of my friend who started her own business against all odds, refusing to let anyone or anything hold her back. Her unwavering determination and perseverance have inspired me to pursue my own dreams and never give up.

Let us take a moment to celebrate the female leaders, innovators, and game changers who are making a difference in our world. Whether they're smashing glass ceilings, advocating for social justice, or inspiring others to reach their full potential, these women are a force to be reckoned with.

Their presence in our lives is a reminder that we too are capable of achieving greatness and making a meaningful impact in the world. So let us continue to lift each other up, support one another's goals, and celebrate the remarkable women who make our lives brighter and more fulfilling.

May 2023

PUBLISHERS

Jahna Eichel | jahna.eichel@citylifestyle.com

Jason Eichel jason.eichel@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Morgan Henderson morgan@fortcollinscreativeagency.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

The Creative Agency hello@fortcollinscreativeagency.com

STAFF WRITER

Allie Bellows

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Tony Deyo tony@fortcollinscreativeagency.com

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

Proverbs 3:5-6

c

p e t o y o u r o w n p r i v a t e o a s i s i n a b r e a t h t a k i n g w a t e r f r o n t p r o p e r t y , n e s t l e d j u s t a s h o r t d r i v e N o r t h o f F o r t C o l l i n s E x p e r i e n c e t h e p e r f e c t b a l a n c e o f l u x u r y a n d a d v e n t u r e w i t h t h e c o n v e n i e n c e o f w a t e r s k i i n g r i g h t i n y o u r b a c k y a r d . I ' m r e a d y t o s h a r e m o r e d e t a i l s a b o u t t h i s e x q u i s i t e h o m e a n d h e l p y o u m a k e i t y o u r s . D o n ' t w a i t , c o n t a c t m e n o w a n d t a k e t h e f i r s t s t e p t o w a r d s t h e l i f e s t y l e y o u d e s e r v e .

FINANCIAL EMPOWERMENT

1. SET BIG, BOLD GOALS

As a third generation financial professional, Alicia Lewis, the President of Layman Lewis Financial, blends the best practices of traditional financial strategies with modern techniques to help clients pursue their goals. To accomplish this, she creates customized strategies with a variety of insurance products for each client, designed to help protect their assets, potentially reduce taxes and possibly even increase retirement income. We asked Alicia what her top advice for women would be on how to set themselves up for financial success.

For many women, financial empowerment can be an elusive goal. However, by taking a proactive approach to their finances, women can gain control of their money, reduce stress, and achieve financial stability and independence.

It's time for women to take charge of their finances and become excited about money. Being financially empowered isn't just about having enough money in the bank, it's about taking control of your financial future and making your money work for you. This article is NOT going to tell you to stop buying fancy coffee. You do you, girl!

Forget about the old-school approach of setting small and safe financial goals. It's time to dream big and set bold goals that will challenge you and inspire you. Whether it's starting your own business, retiring early, or investing in real estate, set a big goal and go for it!

2. GET SAVVY WITH INVESTING

Investing isn't just for Wall Street bros. It's time for women to get savvy with investing and start building wealth. Do your research, learn about stocks, mutual funds, and real estate investing. Invest in yourself and your future, and watch your money grow.

3. BUILD AN EMERGENCY FUND, ASAP

Life is unpredictable, and having an emergency fund is crucial for financial empowerment. Build an emergency fund that covers at least six months of expenses, so you can weather any storm that comes your way.

“...by taking a proactive approach to their finances, women can gain control of their money, reduce stress, and achieve financial stability and independence.”

Networking isn't just for making business connections. It's also a powerful tool for learning about personal finance and building your financial knowledge. Attend financial seminars, join investing clubs, and surround yourself with like-minded women who are taking control of their finances.

If you're feeling overwhelmed or don't know where to start, don't be afraid to seek help. Hire a financial advisor or planner who can guide you through the process and help you achieve your financial goals.

Taking control of your finances isn't just about being responsible or practical. It's about feeling empowered and taking charge of your financial future. By setting big goals, getting savvy with investing, building an emergency fund, networking like a boss, and seeking help when needed, women can become the ultimate bosses of their money. We highly recommend calling Alicia and her team!

At Re-Bath®, we design beautiful, functional bathrooms—and provide the quality products to finish the look. Plus, our licensed, insured, locally owned and operated teams can complete your project in days, not weeks.

Schedule your FREE in-home consultation today.

(970) 535-9400 REBATH.COM

Proudly serving Northern Colorado. Showroom located at: 1017 N 1st St Berthoud, CO 80513

WOMEN OF IMPACT

HOW NORTHERN COLORADO'S LADIES CREATE, INFLUENCE AND AFFECT CHANGE FOR OUR COMMUNITY

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN WHO ASPIRE TO REACH POSITIONS OF POWER AND INFLUENCE IN THEIR CHOSEN FIELDS?

I think the most important thing for women or anyone is to build a network of supportive team members and be a supportive team member. There is an important but sometimes quiet circle of mentorship happening out there, be a part of it and share with others. Nobody achieves positions of power in a vacuum.  it is all about building trust, respect, and relationships. Those relationships can help propel you to positions you desire, they can help pick you up when you hit a wall, and if you’ve helped someone climb their ladder they can help show the path around some of those challenges they’ve already encountered. I’ve had some great mentors in my life in college and in my various jobs and I hope I’ve been able to share that with others too.

HOW HAVE YOU LEVERAGED YOUR POWER AND INFLUENCE TO EFFECT POSITIVE CHANGE IN YOUR COMMUNITY?

My mission involves changing how women see their bodies and their relationship to food, so I’ve used my voice to help combat body hate, toxic diet culture, and all the “what our body should look like” ideals that society piles on us.

WHAT OBSTACLES HAVE YOU FACED AS A FEMALE LEADER, AND HOW HAVE YOU OVERCOME THEM? WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN WHO ASPIRE TO LEADERSHIP ROLES?

One of the big challenges I’ve had to overcome is the innate female desire to be a people-pleaser. Women are often giving by nature, and I’ve had to work to let go of wanting to “give” everything to everyone. I’ve worked to create boundaries in my schedule and work, let go of needing to “please” everyone, and stay firm in my “no’s” as a leader when it feels easier to just say “yes”.

HOW HAVE YOU LEVERAGED YOUR POWER AND INFLUENCE TO EFFECT POSITIVE CHANGE IN YOUR COMMUNITY?

“On a personal level, day-to-day, I feel like I’m impacting the lives of every person I treat because I’m truly coming from a place of serving that person.  I’ve treated a lot of people who come in to get treatment after they’ve had some kind of tragedy, and I always say it helps to feel better on the outside until the inside catches up. On a bigger scale, Allura has been pretty huge in impacting our community which I feel is the responsibility of businesses. Once you’ve gained success, it’s almost like an unspoken obligation to give back to your community that’s helped support you and your business. We really like to do as much as we can to make an impact on our communities and give back.”

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN WHO ASPIRE TO REACH POSITIONS OF POWER AND INFLUENCE IN THEIR CHOSEN FIELDS?

“I think the biggest thing is having a mentor of some sort, having a person to look up to and aspire to become like, in your own unique way. A woman that’s already been there and done that, look to her as an example.  Work hard, or work smart?  I believe you have to do both.  If somebody has already figured out a path to success in the field you’re trying to succeed in, learn from their mistakes and failures and successes and then plug that into your own journey.”

“On a personal level, day-to-day, I feel like I’m impacting the lives of every person I treat because I’m truly coming from a place of serving that person.”

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

Well, this is such a tough question because I am surrounded by so many incredible people that inspire me all the time. I am blessed with an unbelievable family. They motivate me to be my best self and continue to work hard. I have very supportive friends that also accomplish incredible things in their businesses, being the best moms and loving friends. All of these humans inspire me daily to be my best and show up for those that love me!

HOW HAVE YOU LEVERAGED YOUR POWER AND INFLUENCE TO EFFECT POSITIVE CHANGE IN YOUR COMMUNITY?

I believe that we can all help each other and make our community a better place. It is truly about just caring and taking the time to listen. By asking about needs or gaps

Four Seasons Veterinary

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

Communication inspires me.  I feel that there is little that can’t be done when we effectively communicate, especially when we communicate from a foundation built on compassion. I think often the idea of compassion is misunderstood as having to take place only when we are in agreement with, condone, approve of, or even love the experience that is occurring. I believe that communication gets inhibited because of this. When we look towards communication with a compassionate mindset, recognizing that we all come from the same space of wanting to be happy and without angst or anger or fear, we are more able and available to effectively communicate and resolve, sort out, or interact in a way that feels not only more authentic but also more productive.  I find this to be inspiring because it brings with it a sense of community, connection and understanding.

HOW HAVE YOU LEVERAGED YOUR POWER AND INFLUENCE TO EFFECT POSITIVE CHANGE IN YOUR COMMUNITY?

I thought this question was funny because I asked myself “You have

in certain programs and being able to find solutions to fill them, our connections, conversations we choose to have, and with a giving heart we all have the power and can leverage off of each other to make our community better!

WHAT OBSTACLES HAVE YOU FACED AS A FEMALE LEADER, AND HOW HAVE YOU OVERCOME THEM?

I believe actions always speak louder than words so if I was ever met with skepticism I just proved through my actions I am who I say that I am and I will do great things because I know that I can. What advice would you give to other women who aspire to leadership roles? Believe in yourself, know your value, and you can do anything you want to do with hard work, persistence, affirmations, and consistency. power and influence?!” All joking aside, this question did help me reflect on how my role as a leader may or may not have positively impacted change within my community. I think where I’ve landed is having the opportunity to teach community members about wellness and self-care- in the past through my private practice as a psychotherapist, currently as a senior educator of Compassion Cultivation Training (CCT) through the Compassion Institute, or in my role as the Leader of Wellness and Culture at Four Seasons Veterinary Specialists- I’ve realized when people are willing to listen to resolve discomfort or distress or uncertainty in their life, it’s very important that we say things that are worth hearing. I’ve been very fortunate to have access to many different types of education and education processes. Through these opportunities, I hope I am influencing effective positive change in my community by learning and then taking that knowledge to share ideas worth listening to.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

Opportunities to help people in our community, my daughters inspire me to be a better person and to be an Entrepreneur.

HOW HAVE YOU LEVERAGED YOUR POWER AND INFLUENCE TO EFFECT POSITIVE CHANGE IN YOUR COMMUNITY?

We help provide better sleep for people in need in our community by providing free or low-cost beds. Loveland Housing Authority, Veterans programs, Women’s Shelters and sober living homes, and Churches

WHAT OBSTACLES HAVE YOU FACED AS A FEMALE LEADER, AND HOW HAVE YOU OVERCOME THEM? WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN WHO ASPIRE TO LEADERSHIP ROLES?

People who tell you, you can’t. Keep setting goals and move forward, expect setbacks but don’t give up. Lead people with praise and positivity.

WHAT OBSTACLES HAVE YOU FACED AS A FEMALE LEADER, AND HOW HAVE YOU OVERCOME THEM?  WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN WHO ASPIRE TO LEADERSHIP ROLES?

Get your foot in the door.  Keep your head down, work hard, do as best as you can.  Pay attention to what’s going on so that when you do speak up, and don’t be afraid to speak up, people are going to listen.  Play to your strengths and don’t be afraid if there’s something you don’t know how to do, get help with it.”

WHAT STRATEGIES HAVE YOU USED TO OVERCOME BARRIERS AND CHALLENGES THROUGHOUT YOUR CAREER AND HOW HAVE THEY SHAPED YOUR LEADERSHIP STYLE?

“I never asked anybody to do anything that I’m not willing to do.  I think sometimes people would mistake my easygoing nature as a weakness.  And they always regret it.  Don’t confuse the fact that I’m easy to get along with someone who’s going to put up with you not doing your job.”

HOW DO YOU BALANCE YOUR PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND WHAT PRACTICES OR HABITS HAVE HELPED YOU MAINTAIN YOUR FOCUS AND DRIVE OVER TIME?

“If anybody says it’s easy, they’re lying.  I was a single mom for most of my professional career, and it’s hard to balance.  Ultimately, you’ve got to make sure you’re taking care of yourself and the family and then work as hard as you can.  Take care of the people you love, you can always get another job, you can’t get another husband or daughter.  It’s hard, but recognize it’s hard and do the best you can, and don’t beat yourself up.”

“Ultimately, you’ve got to make sure you’re taking care of yourself and the family and then work as hard as you can.”

Brandt Realty

Erin Brandt Alexis Mariachini

WHAT OBSTACLES HAVE YOU FACED AS A FEMALE LEADER, AND HOW HAVE YOU OVERCOME THEM?  WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN WHO ASPIRE TO LEADERSHIP ROLES?

“As a female, I’ve faced the challenge of not being seen as a source of knowledge in my field, compared to my male counterparts.  When facing this challenge, I had to come more prepared to show the facts, regarding investing, sources of information, and mathematical data showing an investment is worth investing in.”

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

I have desired to be a nurse since I was a child and found inspiration along the way in life. I have always admired the intelligence, ethical responsibility, class, and selflessness of this profession. I was inspired by the versatility of the profession and utilized this benefit by practicing Aesthetics, Plastics, and Critical Care nursing. To me, it was admirable and empowering to become a nurse. It is inspirational to be able to plan for the future, work hard on the present, and to watch what your dreams unfold in front of you. It is like having superpowers. It is amazingly inspirational to be successful and love what I am doing every day. I struggled with self-confidence and my education has only built my confidence. The ability to work with men and women and collaborate with them to cultivate strength and beauty has led me to success and a rewarding career.  I love my position at Xanadu Med Spa because it allows me to focus on helping people feel and look their absolute best. It is tremendously rewarding when working with patients to restore the stressors of life in their face. Lifting and lighting the lines and shadows that come with time. Plumping and filling spaces that may have emptied from the patient’s hard work brings me satisfaction.

HOW HAVE YOU LEVERAGED YOUR POWER AND INFLUENCE TO EFFECT POSITIVE CHANGE IN YOUR COMMUNITY?

As a nurse, I have the power and influence to effect positive change

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN WHO ASPIRE TO REACH POSITIONS OF POWER AND INFLUENCE IN THEIR CHOSEN FIELDS?

“Be dedicated and of a strong mind.  When you feel defeated, keep pressing and never give up.”

WHAT WOULD YOU TELL YOUR YOUNGER SELF, THE ONE WHO PERHAPS WAS NERVOUS ABOUT TAKING THE LEAP INTO FOLLOWING YOUR DREAMS?

“Don’t wait, and take the leap now.  It will all turn out as it should.”

in my community. My community has influenced me and has shown me how to connect with them and lead them with decisions in beauty, health, and wellness. I have had the gift of experiencing people in their most vulnerable state, which allows me to better connect with their experiences and vision. When I look at the words leverage and power, I think to myself I can’t leverage anything over anyone. But when I think of power, I think of the knowledge that the human experience has given me. Because of what I’ve learned from my community, it is vital for me to work hard on building relationships, listening, empathizing, learning, communicating, taking action, and collaborating with my patients and clients. Lastly, I find it immensely important to measure and celebrate my success by keeping track of the impact I am making and reviewing my progress so that I continue to grow and make impact on my clients. When you open yourself up to vulnerability, and see people at their worst, or experience their best with them, this allows you to connect with them and better understand their needs and what changes they are looking for. This allows me to continue my growth and impact. I communicate my vision to all that will listen for a positive change in a way that resonates with my community. I use my weight loss platform to promote the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

I’m inspired by all the mentors, friends, and colleagues who have shaped me to steadfastly believe that I have the power to help change future generations for the better - one family at a time - and create a ripple effect on the health of the human race.  My hope is that I’ve been able to be an inspiration and role model to other moms, families, and my patients to take an intentional role in and take control of their own health and their family’s health

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN WHO ASPIRE TO REACH POSITIONS OF POWER AND INFLUENCE IN THEIR CHOSEN FIELDS?

I believe women have a unique ability to let love and passion into their business world, perhaps a little easier than men can, though I may be speaking in generalities. But my advice is to be true to your heart, listen to your gut, and embody the fact that what may make you different in how you run your business just may be the thing that makes you the best fit to lead. Unlearn anything that taught you that you can’t reach a position of power ... because it’s untrue.

CONTINUED >

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

Growth inspires me. Either through self-discovery or my passion as an entrepreneur and Lash Artist. I don’t want to be complacent or let my work plateau. I want to continue to pull myself out of my comfort zones and challenge myself for growth.

WHAT STRATEGIES HAVE YOU USED TO OVERCOME BARRIERS AND CHALLENGES THROUGHOUT YOUR CAREER, AND HOW HAVE THEY SHAPED YOUR LEADERSHIP STYLE?

Something I learned over time was leading with emotional intelligence. Understanding your moods and emotions so you can think and act with a clear mind. Seeing all sides of a situation and why someone or yourself may be reacting so you can better understand. Finding compromise so everyone feels valued and understood. Leading with emotional intelligence is important to creating a safe space for you and your team. Leading by example will inspire your team to do the same.

“Leading with emotional intelligence is important to creating a safe space for you and your team.”

WHAT OBSTACLES HAVE YOU FACED AS A FEMALE LEADER, AND HOW HAVE YOU OVERCOME THEM? WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN WHO ASPIRE TO LEADERSHIP ROLES?

Being a female leader in a male-dominated industry can be challenging and fun! And just navigating their narrative while staying true to mine. I always lead with love, sometimes that’s tough love, but unnecessary anger only perpetuates issues instead of solving them. I think some men I’ve led in the past would be upset that I wasn’t yelling at them or coming from a place of anger. But ultimately how I lead is my responsibility, how you react is yours. To other women, be yourself! Ask for help and guidance by people who inspire you, and trust that you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be!

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN WHO ASPIRE TO REACH POSITIONS OF POWER AND INFLUENCE IN THEIR CHOSEN FIELDS?

For women reaching for the top of their careers my advice is to remember your power and your ability to do so! You’ve got this! We need more women at the top in important conversations and decisions! Find a good buddy who lifts you up or write affirmations in your phone and watch the magic happen!

TRUE LOVE EXPERIMENT

Q: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START WRITING ROMANCE NOVELS, AND WHAT LED YOU TO THE NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER LIST?

A: We’ve always read and loved romance and met online while writing fanfiction. After our first collaboration—a short chapter for a fanfiction contest online—we decided to write a book together and wanted to try to capture some of the joy and swoons of our favorite romance novels. As for the New York Time’s list, that’s all thanks to our readers, and our publisher for working to get our books into as many hands as possible. The only thing we control is the books we write, the rest is up to the audience.

Q: YOU'VE COLLABORATED ON SEVERAL NOVELS AS A WRITING DUO. HOW DO YOU DIVIDE THE WORKLOAD AND WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED WHILE WORKING TOGETHER?

A: The truth is that it’s different for every book and depends on what else is going on. Except for during the pandemic, we’ve always outlined the books together. Christina usually flies from Utah to California where Lauren lives, and we spend a few days talking about the story, watching movies for inspiration, people-watching at restaurants and cafes, and plotting everything out. Then we go to our separate homes and start writing. Sometimes we divide by character or chapter and write in chronological order, uploading those chapters as they’re completed and eventually combining to edit and edit and edit some more. Other times one of us might be drafting while the other is doing revisions on something else. If there’s one thing we’ve learned it’s that this job is always changing and we’ve learned to be flexible in the process.

Q: YOUR NOVELS OFTEN FEATURE STRONG FEMALE PROTAGONISTS. HOW DO YOU CREATE THESE CHARACTERS, AND WHAT DO YOU HOPE READERS TAKE AWAY FROM THEM?

A: Our female characters are strong because women are strong. And, like women out in the real world, our characters exhibit that strength in many ways. Some are overtly powerful and assertive; their strength is more obvious. Other women are strong in a more subtle way and exhibit their strength through action and quiet determination. We want every single one of our readers to see her or himself in at least one of our characters. There’s no one single way to be a heroine.

Christina Lauren is the combined pen name of longtime writing partners and best friends Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings, the New York Times, USA TODAY, and #1 internationally bestselling authors of the Beautiful and Wild Seasons series, Dating You / Hating You, Autoboyography, Love and Other Words, Roomies, Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating, My Favorite Half-Night Stand, The Unhoneymooners, Twice in a Blue Moon, The Soulmate Equation, Something Wilder, and The True Love Experiment.  We sat down with the dynamic duo and they gave us a birds eye view into the mind of a writer. In this case, two minds are better than one. Read on.

Q: YOUR NOVEL THE UNHONEYMOONERS FEATURES A UNIQUE TWIST ON THE TRADITIONAL ENEMIES-TO-LOVERS TROPE. CAN YOU DISCUSS HOW YOU APPROACH SUBVERTING COMMON ROMANCE TROPES?

A: We had the most fun writing The Unhoneymooners and hope it comes through on the page. And to be honest, we never start with the trope. We don’t set out to write an enemies-to-lovers book, or a second-chance romance, or a friends-to-lovers; we start with the characters and figure out who they would fall in love with and go from there.

Whether it’s making Lily the outdoorsy adventurer and Leo the city boy in Something Wilder, or crafting both Olive and Ethan as grumpy pessimists in The Unhoneymooners, we try to take what you’re expecting, and turn it on its head. We always hope to surprise and delight our readers.

Q: IN THE SOULMATE EQUATION YOU EXPLORE THE IDEA OF USING SCIENCE TO FIND TRUE LOVE. HOW DID YOU RESEARCH THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE NOVEL, AND WHAT DO YOU HOPE READERS TAKE AWAY FROM THE STORY?

A: When we were beginning this book, we were both obsessed with the Theranos scandal, and the idea that (1) there are still so many groundbreaking technologies in our future and (2) the hope and power of these breakthroughs can really influence the most powerful people. We started with the technology that could use DNA to help us find our soulmate, and then created the story from there—what would be the most fun premise to play with?

CONTINUED >

UPCOMING EVENT:

Old Fire House Books will be hosting Christina Lauren for their new novel THE TRUE LOVE EXPERIMENT at Marriot Fort Collins on Friday May 26, 2023 at 6pm MST. You can find them online at ChristinaLaurenBooks. com and @ChristinaLauren on Instagram or Twitter

The science part was fun, and pretty easy to dream up—Lauren has a PhD in Neuroscience and her husband has his doctorate in Biochemistry. So while the technology in The Soulmate Equation isn’t real (yet!), it was fun to play the thought experiment and ask what we would need to see as investors in order to give our money to this technology? We started from there and built the love story around it.

Q: YOUR NOVELS OFTEN FEATURE DIVERSE CHARACTERS AND STORYLINES. HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO YOU TO REPRESENT DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVES AND EXPERIENCES IN YOUR WRITING?

A: Thank you! We try so hard to make this true. We would never tell a cultural identity story—those aren’t ours to tell—but we want our books to look like the world around us. That means we get lots of sensitivity reads and go through several rounds of revisions. And if we make a mistake, we own it and make it right. Everyone deserves a happily ever after and it’s important to us that our readers can imagine getting theirs in a Christina Lauren book.

Q: WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR ASPIRING ROMANCE WRITERS, AND HOW CAN THEY BREAK INTO THE INDUSTRY?

A: Read read read, both in your genre, and outside of it. A writing career is hills and valleys, and the only thing you control when you’re in a valley is the book you write. Also, surround yourself with people whose opinion you trust, and learn to take critical feedback.

Q: CAN YOU DISCUSS HOW YOU APPROACH RESEARCH FOR YOUR NOVELS, AND WHAT CHALLENGES DID YOU FACE IN INCORPORATING REAL-WORLD DETAILS?

A: We love research! We always joke that we are suckers for competence, meaning we LOVE characters who are good at what they do. If a character is a scientist, we don’t need to read about every experimental detail, but we need to believe that THEY know every experimental detail. Google is amazing, and we always try to find a couple experts to read through our books to make sure we’re capturing the important details.

Q: WHAT CAN READERS EXPECT FROM YOUR UPCOMING PROJECTS, AND WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE FUTURE OF YOUR WRITING CAREER?

A: Our next book, The True Love Experiment comes out May 16th, and after 29 books together it’s a great feeling to be able to

say we think it’s our best book yet. That’s what excites us; knowing we have so many different stories to tell, and that Christina Lauren evolves with each one.

Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL YOUR YOUNGER SELF, THE ONE WHO PERHAPS WAS NERVOUS ABOUT TAKING THE LEAP INTO FOLLOWING YOUR DREAMS?

A: When we look at our books on the shelf, we sometimes can’t believe that this is real. We’d tell our younger selves to keep reading, to fill our hearts and heads with stories, and embrace (and protect) the things that bring us joy. Lots of people look down on fanfiction and romance, but that’s how we found each other! Just keep going and working hard and remember that writing happens one word at a time.