JoeyPinkney.com Exclusive Interview
5 Minutes, 5 Questions With…
Raina Shaw, author of Ridiculous Situations (Expanded Second Edition)
(Createspace)
Having observed women (of all ages and ethnicities) and the way that they handle relationships, I’ve concluded that common sense ain’t so common.
“Ridiculous Situations”, gives thought provoking famous quotes about love, relationships, common sense and “real deal” revelation and advice from an author that talks the talk and walks the walk in her own relationships.
I put women up on the games that are played in the dating world. I urge them to take off that dress of desperation, take responsibility for the decisions that they make and step away from dysfunctional people and relationships. Some of my subjects include:
- Don’t touch that 401K.
- The Return of the old flame: Deal or No Deal?
- The Back Child Support Payment Trap.
- The “Stepping Stone” Relationship/Marriage.
- The Male Roommate
- And so much more.
Girls! Read it, and be prepared to hold out for the best… It’s better to be single than sorry.
Joey Pinkney: Where did you get the inspiration to write “Ridiculous Situations (Expanded Second Edition)”?
Raina Shaw: I am a hairstylist, and the salon is a place where women let their hair down and keep it real. There is no conversation that is off limits. The majority of the conversations center on the men in women’s lives and the drama.
In the salon I’ve been dubbed “The Salon Chair Therapist” by my fellow hairstylists and the clients because I always end up giving the women pearls of wisdom that I utilize in my own life. Many of the women followed my advice and turned their ridiculous situations around.
JP: What sets “Ridiculous Situations (Expanded Second Edition)” apart from other books in the same genre?
RS: In “Ridiculous Situations”, I’ve supported a lot of the points I make with bible scripture, but the book is not preachy or judgmental at all. I break those scriptures down in way that would be considered “street”.
Anyone christian or non christian can relate to what is written. They also see that the Bible is actually a timeless relevant book. Everything is in there! Sex, drugs, pimps, playas, the strip club is all in there. For real!
JP: As an author, what are the keys to your success that led to Ridiculous Situations (Expanded Second Edition) getting out to the public?
RS: I didn’t over think the process. In the beginning, I had no idea how to publish and market a book.I just took one step at a time. I wrote “Ridiculous Situations” then I met publishers and people with helpful information and one opportunity lead to another.
Recently, I met publisher and author Michael McGrew of Legacy Publishing who is now my book marketing guru. I am really on my way to major opportunities as an author now. He really knows his stuff!
JP: As an author, what is your writing process? How long did it take you to start and finish Ridiculous Situations (Expanded Second Edition)?
RS: First, I make a table of contents and name my chapters. I go back and put the information/stories in each chapter.
It took me about two months to compile info and actually finish “Ridiculous Situations”. I went in a few more times and revised and added more content.
JP: What’s next for Raina Shaw?
RS: Before I became a hairstylist I worked in the music and fashion industry for many years. So, I have lots of stories. In the very near future, Legacy Publishing will publish my short stories (fiction) that will be about the fashion and music industry.
Also, I’m considering ideas for a salon-based reality show, and I’d like to spend more time in Europe again especially London and check out the literary scene there. I also have an interest in motivational speaking, so we’ll see what happens with that.
https://www.facebook.com/DynamicRainaShaw
When readers purchase “Ridiculous Situations” there is also a companion workbook that they can download for free. Go to http://rainashaw.com/ and click on the “Pressroom and Merchandise” link and tol find it.
I believe that a workbook will help my readers apply what they’ve read and keep them accountable for making the changes that they want to make in their lives. Making changes takes ongoing dedication.
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