Interview with Jo Ann Herold
The author of "Living On A Smile" shares book recommendations, her writing process, and her surprising first job
Tell us a little bit about yourself! Career trajectory, special interests, fun facts...?
I grew up in Ocean Springs, MS and moved to Atlanta after college. I live in Druid Hills with my husband, Mark, and my daughter Lily (she’s at Auburn University right now).
My career has been in marketing, and I love working with brands and teams to innovate, modernize, and grow. I was formerly the Chief Marketing Officer for The Honey Baked Ham Company (twice) and served as the Global CMO for Interface, Inc. I also served as VP of Brand and Communications at Arby’s Restaurant Group and was recruited to serve on the brand turnaround team.
My purpose is to help brands and people grow significantly and I started a growth consultancy last year. I also serve as an Expert in Residence at Georgia State University, where I teach. I love to write and speak and am on the Executive Board of Fast Company.
A fun fact is that I started my career at McDonald’s where I gave birthday parties and wore the hamburgular costume!
What led you to decide to write your first book? How did you decide what you wanted to write it about?
I wanted to write this book since I was 7 as a way to thank my family, friends and mentors for making such a big difference in my life. It was a dream come true to be able to write, publish and launch this book.
What was the hardest part about writing your first book?
The hardest part wasn’t so much the writing as it was the editing. Adam Albrecht, a fellow Ripples author told me there are three marathons when publishing a book—writing it, editing it, and then launching it. Editing is when the rubber hits the road and it becomes “real.”
What are some tips that you would offer to other first-time authors?
For first time authors, I’d advise to start taking notes on ideas and an outline for your book. Find an accountability partner who might be writing their book at the same time. Jeff Hilimire did this with me when we were writing our books at the same time. Through this, I was able to have someone to bounce ideas off of and stay true to goals.
You're currently working on a second book. How has your experience differed from your first book so far?
Yes, I am excited! I love the book writing process and for the second book, I feel a lot more confident about the book writing process and I know what to expect. Through the Ripples community there are six authors who are all writing their books at the same time. We check in daily with other to help each other through the process. It’s very fun and exhilarating.
Finally, what book is on your bedside table right now, and what is the best book you read in 2023?
Best book in 2023 for me were two oldies, but goodies. First, Shoe Dog by Phil Knight and Open by Andre Agassi. Both were biographies about having an idea and pursuing it and all the highs and lows about the journey. I can relate to that and enjoyed their resilience.