Someone you haven’t even met yet is wondering what it’d be like to know someone like you. -Sasha M.
To Directory Listing…
Sylvia: Welcome Sasha. Please give our readers an introduction of yourself and a little about your book.
Sasha: Hi Sylvia. My name is Sasha Johnson, and I was born on April 20, 1987 in Montgomery, Alabama. I am a single mother of two sons, a licensed professional counselor, author, radio host, professor, and inspirational speaker. I am also the founder of a nonprofit organization called Sister’s 2nd Chance. Currently, I am is finishing the coursework to achieve a Doctorate Degree in Philosophy of Psychology; with a focus on General Psychology. I also am a National Certified Counselor and the mission is to inspire and motivate as many individuals as possible.
I am the Chief Executive Owner of Sasha Mercedes, LLC,. Under this platform, I attend interviews, speaking engagements and have been featured in several magazines such as VoyageATL, Afroelle Magazine, ACHI Magazine, and Sheen Magazine. I am also the Chief Executive Owner of Inside & Out Consulting, LLC, and in this private practice. I provide mental health treatment as a counselor; focusing on trauma, relationships, and the LGBT community.
In addition, I am the Founder of Sister’s 2nd Chance where the mission is to aspire and accommodate women and children who need someone to confide in through difficult phases. We go above and beyond the reach and extend that sister’s touch for women who may be encountering abusive relationships, spousal misconduct, verbal, and psychological mistreatment; and those who are generally just having a rough time with life. With this program, I focus on fortifying a strong sisterhood that promotes comradeship and confidentiality because we believe everyone deserves a second chance.
Sylvia: Sasha, you have an impressive background. My oldest daughter is your age, and lived in Montgomery for a years and attended Troy University. Small world! Tell me a little more about your radio show?
Sasha: Sure! I am the radio host of a talk show called ‘Klymax Sessions with Sasha’ under that platform of Power 108.9 in Atlanta. This radio show focuses on mental health concerns, relationship aspects and providing motivational content. The sole purpose is to motivate and inspire every individual that tunes into our show to gain their climax in their career, spirituality, and overall life.
Sylvia: Wow, you are a woman of many talents. What inspired you to write your first book?
Sasha: I was inspired to write my first book because I felt that I had been through so much in my life and that I wanted to use my pain to help other people overcome their struggles.
The most recent book that I wrote is called, “It’s a Losing Battle, but I Won”, This book highlights the struggles and challenges that I faced in my life with abuse, mental illness and being a single mother. It also includes how I was able to overcome those obstacles as a learning tool for others.
Sylvia: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
Sasha: The message that I want people to gain is to never give up just because they might feel they have ran into a brick wall, instead slowly remove every brick to get to other side of the pain by winning and continuing to push on.
Sylvia: Great message! I know people need to hear those encouraging words when they are experiencing turmoil in their lives. What was the hardest part of writing your book?
Sasha: The hardest part about writing my book was having to relive pain that I have experienced in my life and having to self-reflect during the writing process.
Sylvia: Wow, that is powerful. I had a similar experience when I wrote my first book collaboration. How did you come up with the idea for this book?
Sasha: I came up with the idea, because as a counselor I know that a lot of people are ashamed of their pain and have a hard time pressing on. I hope that my book can give them encouragement.
Sylvia: How do you combat writer’s block?
Sasha: I combat writer’s block by stepping away from the project, meditating and doing some self-care.
Sylvia: Do you have any advice for other writers?
Sasha: Do not give up, because your story needs to be heard.
Sylvia: Wow, that is powerful. I agree… people are waiting on others story. What marketing techniques have you used to sell your books and which ones have been most successful?
Sasha: I have attended book signing, and participate in magazine and live interviews about my book.
Sylvia: Why should we buy your book?
Sasha: You should buy my book if you feel that you are lost in your pain and need motivation and encouragement to keep pushing.
Sylvia: Is there a special place that you prefer when you write?
Sasha: I prefer to write in nature, so I love to be around water or outside.
Sylvia: What projects are you currently working on?
Sasha: I just completed a production of a reality show and next, I am producing a documentary on a real story of a mother that lost her two sons at the same time to gun violence. I am also outlining my next book on gratitude that will be released next year.
Sylvia: What is your POWER WORD? Why this word?
Sasha: Strength is my power word because in every aspect of my life, whether it be being a single mother, victim of abuse, molestation or mental health issues, I pulled strength from within to keep pushing and not give up. I continued to strive to be the best me that I could be by finding the strength that I thought I had lost.
Sylvia: I love that explanation of your power word. Thank you!
Sasha: Thank you too. I appreciate the opportunity.
