Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/667021
86 MACONMAGAZINE.COM Coie Carey Speaker, Author, Musician 478.250.1177 ConnieCarey.com What led you to become a national speaker and author? With a background in music and teaching and growing up in a family that loves to laugh, I have long been intrigued with the way music and humor help people remember a message. That led to what I do now: I use music and humor to teach people to manage stress, to be more resilient, healthy and happy by considering their challenges from a renewed perspective. Also, as a speaker coach, I help both beginning and seasoned speakers craft talks to make their own messages memorable. What is your book about? In 2005, I lost my dad to suicide. During a time when I wondered if I would ever laugh again, God brought me to the other side of grief, stronger in my broken places. "Falling Up, Lessons Learned on the Way Down" is a practical resource for anyone experiencing grief or loss. What is your greatest professional accomplishment? It was an honor to be named "2014 Georgia Author of the Year" for my book. Who is your typical audience? I have tailored "Laugh More, Live Better" for a variety of audiences. It's a universally understood message. However, with growing medical research on how harnessing laughter helps manage stress and promote health, I have found that it is especially relatable to hospitals and the healthcare industry. I also have had the privilege of sharing spiritual inspiration with faith- based organizations. And although mixed groups are fun, ladies' groups are my sweet spot. Tell us about your involvement in the community. My husband John and I find great meaning in sharing our lives with the people of Pleasant Hill. We attend church at Strong Tower Fellowship, a mission with that community. I lead the worship and teach a women's weekly Bible study. (But they teach me way more than I teach them!) What advice would you offer young women as they start their careers? Find something that you love so much you would do it for free if you could! Work hard to develop your skill. Spend time with people who do with excellence what you aspire to do. Ask questions. Then focus more on serving than success, and opportunities will come. *** SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION PHOTO BY MIKE HADDEN PHOTO BY MICHAEL WILLIAMS Women In Business