Mar 2, 2021
Angela Burton found her talent for writing at an early age. Her natural ability to express herself through writing helped her create a safe space to not only document her story, but to share it and use it to guide her through life. Recognizing the incredible power of writing and self expression, Angela set out to help others find their authentic voice. She is the Founder & Chief Writing Motivator of Feet to the Fire Writers' Workshops®, a creative program that inspires adults to challenge themselves through expressive writing. Started in Louisville, KY in 2014, Feet to the Fire has expanded to develop a licensed train-the-facilitator program for senior living communities and wellness organizations. The program currently operates in seven U.S. states; in 2020, amidst the COVID pandemic, Feet to the Fire pivoted to launch a consumer version – writer’s kits and virtual groups for those who are socially isolated by the pandemic, a needed way for people to fill up their days, writing the stories of their lives and finding purpose along the way. Angela’s particular brand of helping people find their voice and write authentic stories earned her a spot in Louisville's WILD Accelerator for Female Founders program. Feet to the Fire was recognized as Next Avenue’s Editor’s Picks for 2018 and has been featured in McKnight’s Senior Living (2019), MarketWatch, Forbes and other publications. When COVID19 restricted senior living communities from having even small-group activities, Burton decided to keep their voices alive by starting a podcast, Feet to the Fire Writers’ Workshops® OUTLOUD, featuring interviews with and stories read by the writers themselves. Burton was recently named a Next Avenue Influencer in Aging, sharing the spotlight with such greats as Dr. Vivek Murthy and Michael J. Fox, among others.
What You Will Hear in This Episode:
Angela’s inspiration and love of writing.
The benefits of writing and it’s therapeutic effects.
The positive and negative effects of others recognizing your extraordinary talent. Dealing with jealousy.
The power of self expression and the inception of Feet to the Fire Writers’ Workshops.
Why it’s important to write and share one’s story.
The challenges for people trying to find and connect to their authentic voice.
Preservation of our loved one voices of the past and present.
Finding purpose through writing.
Expressive writing vs.Creative writing.
Angela’s purpose of helping others find their authentic voice through writing.
Quotes:
“Sometimes when you write, that process is like a meditation of sorts.”
“As you go through the phases and stages of your life your goals and your aims change.”
“Writing allowed me to understand what I was feeling, thinking and going through.”
“There’s something magical about turning 50.”
“There is a big power in words. It allows people to express themselves and allows people to have a voice.”
Mentioned:
Not Done Yet! How Women Over 50 Regain Their Confidence and Claim Workplace Power (March 9, 2021) now available for PRE-ORDER!