Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Gasner

Hi Jennifer, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.

I had to stop working in 2014 for health reasons. I had always wanted to write but found it very daunting when I was working full-time. So I took a memoir writing class. After seeing encouragement from there, I intended to keep writing. However, my interest in becoming an accessible yoga teacher took over, and I chose to step away from writing. But when yoga didn’t work out, I decided to refocus on writing.
I took a year-long certificate program for memoir and then transitioned to a weekly read-and-critique group, where I really got involved in the writing community and developed some extraordinary friendships. It was through that group that I met Leslie Ferguson, (0the award-winning author of When I Was Her Daughter, a memoir about overcoming childhood trauma). She encouraged me to submit to a publisher. She eventually became my editor. From the day I signed the contract to the publication of my memoir, My Unexpected Life: Finding Balance Beyond My Diagnosis, it was about fifteen months.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?

Yes and no. It was smooth because I had a lot of support and the belief of others. However, it was not smooth because I struggled with structure. Structure was overwhelming for me and something I avoided doing. However, my editor did a fantastic job helping me structure the book and helping me focus on scene writing and incorporating themes. My publisher gave me the extra time to work with Leslie as my coach, and that guidance was what I needed to finish the book.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?

Currently, I write pieces related to my own life. However, I am hoping to write a fictional love story in which one of the characters is a wheelchair user.
I am most proud when someone who has read my memoir, My Unexpected Life: Finding Balance Beyond My Diagnosis, says that they felt heard or seen for the first time.
My disability definitely sets me apart from others. It has allowed me to develop my sense of empathy deeply. Yet, it also gives me a unique perspective that isn’t always represented or considered in society.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?

My mentors have been born out of friendship or kinship. However, initially, I did not always feel connected to the person. First impressions are important, but I think it is possible for them to change. Remain open to people, and give time for the relationship to develop. It may surprise you.

Be willing to accept what can seem like harsh criticism. In my experience, honest critique from others can
seem cruel. But if you frame it as a sign of respect—meaning they know you can do better—it helps you consider that feedback, learn from it, and improve your work. In turn, developing a mentor/mentee relationship.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://jennifergasner.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennygwriter/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJenniferGasner/
• Other: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jennifer-gasner