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Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Cassie Brooks

We recently had the chance to connect with Cassie Brooks and have shared our conversation below.

Cassie, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Outside of work, what is bringing me joy right now is my advocacy with Free Mom Hugs. Being able to show up for the LGBTQIA+ community, offering love, support, and visibility, fills me with so much purpose. Being part of those moments, whether it is giving someone their first hug of acceptance or helping create safe and affirming spaces, reminds me every day of the power of kindness and community.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My writing means as much to me as helping the community. As an award winning and best-selling children’s author and the heart behind the Magick in Me series, it gives me the opportunity to share the message behind my stories. Each one was born out of everyday conversations with my son. They help kids explore big feelings like grief, loneliness, and learning to shine in their own unique way. Beyond writing, I spend a lot of time showing up for my community through advocacy and love, especially with Free Mom Hugs where I get to spread joy, support, and lots of hugs. What makes my work special is that it is all about weaving together story, magick, and heart to remind kids and families that they already carry something wonderful inside them. Right now I am continuing to grow the Magick in Me series and creating new workshops and tools that spark connection and a little wonder along the way.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
When I was younger I believed that I needed to tone myself down in order to fit in. As a plus sized person from an early age I thought my worth was tied to other people’s acceptance of me. I tried to take up less space, to not stand out, or to make myself useful so that I was less likely to be picked on. What I have come to realize is that none of that defines me. My worth is not measured by what I do or how well I blend in. What truly matters is my voice and how I choose to use it. That shift has been so powerful because it not only set me free to live more authentically but it also allows me to help others step into their own power and truth.

What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear that has held me back the most in my life has been the fear of failure. For a long time I struggled to believe in myself or to trust that I could really make it. That was true when I launched the Magick in Me series and also when I made a big move later in life that shaped not just my future but my son’s as well. What I have learned is that fear does not have to stop you. You can be afraid and still do it anyway. When you take a chance and choose to believe in yourself, you might just be amazed by what opens up on the other side of that fear.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
A project I am deeply committed to, no matter how long it takes, is continuing the Magick in Me series, especially the story My True Colors. The story is already written and while it has faced some delays in reaching publication, I will not give up on it. My True Colors is a bold and powerful story that challenges some perspectives, and that is exactly why it matters. I believe in its message with my whole heart and I know it can make a real difference for children and families. That belief keeps me determined to bring it into the world, no matter how long the journey takes.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace in two ways. The first is in the quiet moments surrounded by people I love. That can be as simple as being at home with my family and my cat, or walking the beach with my partner, holding hands as we listen to the ocean and watch the sunset. I also feel peace when I am creating, whether it is through art or enjoying good food and conversation with a friend. The second way I find peace is when I am out in the community, showing love, making connections, and advocating for the things I believe in. Both bring me a sense of grounding and joy that reminds me I am right where I need to be.

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