Jenna Edwards's Blog

Hello my optimistic friend!

I had the most incredible time being interviewed on the Big Ideas in Education podcast.

We dove deep into the heart of my latest novel, "Aggressive Optimism," exploring themes of mental health, resilience, and the power of optimism even in the face of trauma.

Ever heard of "aggressive optimism"? It's a mindset where we acknowledge the challenges in front of us but remain fiercely optimistic about finding a way forward. It's about being real without dwelling in negativity, and it's something I'm super passionate about sharing, especially in the education space.

During the interview, we discussed how the book isn't just a story; it's a tool for educators, parents, and students to initiate important conversations about mental health and resilience. I shared my own journey of overcoming post-traumatic stress disorder and how I channeled that experience into creating a story that resonates with young people.

But here's the best part: I'm working on developing a curriculum to accompany the book, making it even easier for educators to integrate these crucial discussions into their classrooms. Plus, I offer a bulk discount for educators because I believe so strongly in the power of these conversations.

If you're curious to learn more, you can email optimism@jennaedwards.com

And to all the educators out there, I want to send a huge thank you. I know it's been a tough road, but your dedication and hard work are truly making a difference. You are appreciated more than you know! 💕

Can't wait for you to dive into the podcast and explore the world of "Aggressive Optimism" with me. Let's spread some positivity together!

Hey there, it's Jenna!

Today, I'm excited to share with you a podcast episode that dives deep into my journey through trauma and how it inspired my book, "Aggressive Optimism." Join me as I chat with R. Bradley Snyder on the Talking About Kids podcast.

In this episode of Talking About Kids, host R. Bradley Snyder and I delve into the intricacies of trauma, healing, and the power of aggressive optimism. We explore how trauma manifests differently in each individual and why it's crucial to acknowledge and address it. Plus, we discuss the inspiration behind my book and how it aims to provide hope and support to young readers facing their own challenges so they don’t do what I did. Denying my diagnosis nearly killed me, and, eventually I recognized the need for help after experiencing debilitating symptoms like extreme insomnia and memory loss, to name a couple. Through therapy and self-discovery, I learned to navigate the complexities of trauma and develop coping mechanisms for healing.

One aspect of the interview that I love is when we explore my decision to frame my story within a fictional narrative rather than a non-fiction. This choice stemmed from my belief in the power of storytelling to convey emotions and healing techniques effectively. By creating relatable characters and situations, I aimed to provide readers with a sense of connection and empowerment on their own journeys. And, the reviewers are saying, I did just that. So, if you haven’t purchased your copy yet, go to any bookstore and order one :)

At the heart of both my book and our discussion is the concept of aggressive optimism. We define this mindset as the proactive choice to confront challenges, embrace healing, and pursue one's dreams with unwavering belief. It's about acknowledging the reality of trauma while maintaining a fierce determination to overcome it and live a fulfilling life.

Throughout the conversation, we explore various “tools” that have been instrumental in my recovery journey. From acupuncture to somatic experiencing therapy, each approach offers unique insights into how trauma resides in the body and can be released through mindful practices. Additionally, we highlight the importance of creating a supportive environment filled with positivity and self-compassion.

One of the key themes we address is the challenge of overcoming guilt and self-doubt, especially in the face of trauma. We discuss how my main character, Nif, grapples with feelings of unworthiness and learns to embrace her inherent value and purpose in the world. Through Nif's journey, readers are encouraged to confront their own insecurities and recognize the importance of self-compassion.

As the conversation draws to a close, we reflect on the significance of destigmatizing mental health and providing support to those in need. I truly believe that by sharing our stories and advocating for proactive approaches to healing, we can empower individuals of all ages to embrace their resilience and pursue a life filled with aggressive optimism.

If you're curious to learn more about trauma, healing, and the power of aggressive optimism, be sure to check out the full episode on Talking About Kids. Together, let's inspire hope and resilience in ourselves and others. And remember, no matter what challenges you may face, you're never alone on your journey toward healing and growth.

🌟 Ready to dive deeper into the true story behind "Aggressive Optimism"? Download the short story, "Will You Stand Up?" for an exclusive look at the real-life inspiration behind the book!

🍎 Calling all educators! Check out my free resource, "Empower Your Classroom: Unleash Aggressive Optimism," designed to help you spark meaningful conversations about mental health and resilience with your students.

🌟 And, of course you can grab your copy of “Aggressive Optimism” anywhere you get your books.

Hey everyone! I just had the most enlightening conversation on the Consistently Fit podcast (formerly Be Simply Fit), where I had the incredible opportunity to chat about my book, “Aggressive Optimism,” and my journey towards resilience and empowerment.

Buckle up because this episode was a rollercoaster ride of emotions, insights, and lessons learned.

The host set the stage for our discussion on tackling life's challenges through consistent fitness, both mentally and physically. As we dived into the conversation, I shared snippets of my upbringing, my dreams of making it in LA, and the unexpected twists life threw my way.

From navigating childhood adversities to landing a role on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," life wasn't a smooth sail. But the real curveball hit when I found myself in the midst of a traumatic incident that left me grappling with PTSD. It was a dark period, but it ignited the spark of aggressive optimism within me.

I had the opportunity to talk about what it means to be aggressively optimistic. I break it down like this; it's not about plastering a fake smile or ignoring the harsh realities of life. It's about acknowledging the challenges, making a conscious choice to face them head-on, and relentlessly pursuing a positive outlook, even in the darkest of times.

As I poured my heart out on the podcast, I shared how my journey of healing led me to empower others through writing, producing, and inspiring them to confront their own "big bads" (It’s a Buffy thing). Whether it's dealing with PTSD, bullying, or simply navigating the complexities of life, my mission is to equip people with the tools and mindset to thrive.

Throughout the conversation, we delved into the power of resilience, the importance of having courageous conversations, and the beauty of embracing vulnerability. Each setback, each obstacle, served as a stepping stone towards growth and self-discovery.

As the podcast drew to a close, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible journey we had embarked on together. From sharing personal anecdotes to exchanging invaluable insights, it was a truly enriching experience. And if there's one takeaway I want you to remember, it's this:

no matter what life throws your way, choose aggressive optimism. Believe in the power of resilience, embrace vulnerability, and remember, you're capable of overcoming anything life throws your way.

Feeling inspired? Don't forget to follow me on Instagram @JennaEdwardsOfficial

So, what are you waiting for? Grab a copy of "Aggressive Optimism," embark on your journey of resilience and empowerment, and let's navigate life's twists and turns together. Remember, you're stronger than you think, and with a dash of aggressive optimism, anything is possible. Until next time, stay resilient, stay empowered, and keep embracing the journey ahead.

🌟 Ready to dive deeper into the true story behind "Aggressive Optimism"? Download the short story, "Will You Stand Up?" for an exclusive look at the real-life inspiration behind the book!

🍎 Calling all educators! Check out my free resource, "Empower Your Classroom: Unleash Aggressive Optimism," designed to help you spark meaningful conversations about mental health and resilience with your students.

🌟 And, of course you can grab your copy of “Aggressive Optimism” anywhere you get your books.

Hey there!

Guess what? I just had the coolest experience! I was interviewed on this podcast called A+ Parents, and it was so much fun. I got to share my story about growing up in Minnesota, chasing my dream of becoming an actor, and even landing a role in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. But you know what's really wild? I also talked about some tough stuff, like the accident that left me with PTSD.

We chatted about my book, "Aggressive Optimism," too. It's all about overcoming challenges with a positive mindset, even when things get really tough. The host asked me about the concept of aggressive optimism and how it's different from toxic positivity. I shared my thoughts on it and talked about why it's important to acknowledge our struggles while still believing in ourselves.

One of the coolest parts was when I got to talk about my vision for the book, like how I want it to be used in schools to start conversations about mental health among teenagers. It was such an inspiring conversation, and I'm really excited to see where it goes from here.

Anyway, I just wanted to share the excitement with you! Thanks for always being there to listen. You're the best!

🌟 Ready to dive deeper into the true story behind "Aggressive Optimism"? Download the short story, "Will You Stand Up?" for an exclusive look at the real-life inspiration behind the book!

🍎 Calling all educators! Check out my free resource, "Empower Your Classroom: Unleash Aggressive Optimism," designed to help you spark meaningful conversations about mental health and resilience with your students.

🌟 And, of course you can grab your copy of “Aggressive Optimism” anywhere you get your books.

Hey there! Guess what? I had the incredible opportunity to chat with the amazing Annalise Corbin over at Learning Unboxed about something really close to my heart: aggressive optimism. Yep, that's right! I got to spill the beans about my upcoming book, "Aggressive Optimism," and share my journey of resilience, growth, and mental health awareness. So grab a cup of coffee, cozy up, and let me fill you in on all the juicy details!

Getting Real About Education

You know how passionate I am about shaking up the education system, right? Well, during our chat, we dug deep into the need for change and why it's time to ditch those outdated models. I shared my vision for a more dynamic, student-centered approach to learning—one that celebrates individuality and empowers students to thrive in today's world.

Opening Up About Mental Health

Okay, here's where things get real. I didn't hold back (per usual) when it came to talking about my own experiences with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Through the lens of my character Nif in "Aggressive Optimism," I opened up about the highs and lows of my journey, from navigating trauma to finding hope and healing. It was a raw, honest conversation that I hope will inspire others to open up about their own struggles and seek support.

Empowering Educators and Students

One thing I'm super passionate about is giving educators the tools they need to support students' mental health and well-being. We chatted about practical strategies for creating a more supportive, inclusive classroom environment and the importance of fostering a culture of optimism and resilience in schools.

Bringing "Aggressive Optimism" to Life

I'm so excited to share "Aggressive Optimism" with the world, and our conversation on Learning Unboxed got me even more pumped! We talked about how to bring the book into classrooms, clubs, and organizations, and brainstormed ideas for sparking meaningful conversations about mental health and resilience.

Join the Movement

Want to join me on this journey of aggressive optimism? Follow @jennaedwardsofficial on Instagram for more updates, behind-the-scenes peeks, and doses of positivity. Together, we can spread hope, resilience, and optimism one conversation at a time.

I hope this conversation inspires you to embrace your own journey of resilience and growth.

Until next time, keep shining bright and never forget the power of aggressive optimism!

Jenna 💛

In this wonderful interview with my publisher, Paper Raven Books, we dive deep into the pages of "Aggressive Optimism."

We talk about how my life-altering experiences paved the way for my powerful novel. "Aggressive Optimism" which takes you through the story of Nif, a hopeful young singer whose dreams are suddenly halted by a devastating car crash that robs her of her ability to speak and sing. As we explore Nif's journey of recovery and her battle with post-traumatic stress disorder, I share how my personal struggle with PTSD following a car crash inspired this moving tale.

Morgan and I, not only delve into the themes of mental health and resilience found in my work but also highlight my unique process of transforming intense personal adversity into a narrative that champions strength and optimism. Join us as I discuss the intricate layers of my characters, the concept of aggressive optimism, and my transformative writing journey. Whether you're a young adult or simply young at heart, this story of support and personal growth is pertinent and inspiring. Stay tuned as we unfold the pages of "Aggressive Optimism" with me, Jenna Edwards.

YouTube Video of Morgan from Paper Raven Books interviews best-selling author, Jenna Edwards about her novel, Aggressive Optimism

TIMESTAMPED OVERVIEW:

00:00 Morgan Gist, Paper Raven Books, 'Aggressive Optimism'

05:07 Joy of being on Buffy led to tragedy.

07:42 Sharing mental health journey through relatable fiction.

12:07 Woman overcoming PTSD with support of friends.

15:18 Triumphing over adversity, mental health taboo discussed.

19:35 Author juggles demanding job to write book.

20:57 Struggled with consistency, then found a solution.

24:17 Grateful for mentor's support in writing process.

27:38 Book promotes finding your unique path in life.

33:13 Be kind, journey through mess, share thoughts.

34:18 Jennifer leads important mental health conversation on Instagram.

Keywords:

Morgan Gist McDonald, Jenna Edwards, Aggressive Optimism, young woman singer, Los Angeles, car accident, unable to speak, healing journey, post-traumatic stress disorder, mental health, sudden change, personal experience, PTSD, raising awareness, mental health issues, young adults, book cover, strength and optimism, dark challenges, coping with mental health, ebook promotion, personal growth, writing process, TV or film adaptation, author point of view, self-acceptance, mental health conversations, YA fiction, writing consistency, creative project.

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🌟 Exciting News Alert! 🌟

Are you ready to join the rebellion for a brighter, more optimistic world?

Tune in to the latest episode of the Teach Me, Teacher podcast,

where Jacob Chastain and I sit down to talk about my upcoming book "Aggressive Optimism."

In this electrifying interview, we delve into the difference between toxic positivity and aggressive optimism, sharing insights from my own journey of overcoming trauma and embracing hope and weaving it into the books narrative.

My hope is that the interview will inspire and uplift you. 🌈

Want to get your hands on "Aggressive Optimism" before it hits the shelves?

Go here to join my street team and I’ll send you a digital copy!

Ready to embrace your inner optimistic rebel? Let's spread the message of hope together! ✨

HERE”S WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM THIS CONVERSATION:

Understanding Aggressive Optimism: Learn about the concept of aggressive optimism and how it differs from toxic positivity. Understand that it's okay to acknowledge and address difficult emotions while actively seeking hope and solutions.

Navigating Tough Situations: Gain insights into navigating challenging situations and emotions by drawing inspiration from personal experiences and the experiences of others.

Empowerment Through Choice: Recognize the power of choice in shaping one's perspective and approach to life. Understand that choosing optimism and hope can be a rebellious act in today's world.

Seeking Support and Resources: Discover resources such as the book "Aggressive Optimism" ;) and additional materials for educators focused on social-emotional learning. Explore ways to access support and guidance in navigating tough circumstances.

Fostering Resilience: Learn strategies for fostering resilience and building mental strength in the face of adversity. Embrace the idea that optimism and hope can be cultivated through intentional actions and mindset shifts.

I’d love to hear what you think. Post your thoughts over on Instagram or Goodreads,

Jenna

Jenna Edwards is a #1 best-selling author who has spent the past 2 decades in front of and behind the camera as an actress (Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Malcolm in the Middle) and producer (April Showers - #1 on iTunes, In the Darkness - the 1st narrative feature for Hulu.com). 

Nearly being killed in the 2003 Farmer's Market crash in Santa Monica, CA lead Jenna on a path to understanding mindset in order to heal her severe Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). 

Coupling this mindset work with Jenna's collaborative background, she has made her way into the exciting field of professional facilitation where she helps companies and youth leadership organizations understand not only what their goals are, but how they can work as teams to achieve them. 

She is passionate about helping people uncover the best way to achieve their goals creating win-win experiences wherever she goes. 

Listen Here

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Join Jenna in this powerful episode as she delves into the depths of navigating trauma recovery, harnessing the potential of energy work, and prioritizing mental health awareness with the amazing Amber Whitt. Explore the unbreakable connection between mind and body as we uncover valuable insights, personal stories, and expert advice to aid you on your own path to healing.

LISTEN HERE

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On this episode, Jenna talks with Deanna Marie Salles - Freeman about struggle, resilience, and growth. From healing after hardships to embracing self-love, we uncover inspiring narratives of how laughter, gratitude, and acceptance pave the way to liberation. Get ready to embark on a journey of healing and rediscovery. 🌱✨ Learn more about Deanna at deannawellness.com

LISTEN HERE

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