We had the good fortune of connecting with Candice Y. Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Candice Y., why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I was born a Creative! Literally raised in the discos of Germany, where my father worked gigs as a DJ. My mind’s always been a windstorm of dreams and imagination; creative expression and the arts is where I’ve found my passion and peace. It’s where I live, and where my roots are planted. During my time in Corporate America, I worked hard and served even harder, but at the end of the day, waiting on Fridays so I could have the weekend off was draining and unfulfilling. I wasn’t leaning into what gives me joy, so I chose to pursue what God created me for, and I’ve been soaring ever since.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
The creative journey is like a dance; the steps can be repeated, but you’ll never dance them exactly the same.

Dance was the easy part for me – God literally put me in motion, and the doors swung open from there. I’ve been blessed to open for/minister with some of the most prolific legends in music, including The Clark Sisters, Shirley Ceasar, Jonathan McReynolds, JJ Hairston, Fred Hammond, Kirk Franklin, and too many others to list here. I’ve danced on television, and choreographed for an Emmy award-winning television program each time they brought that Emmy home. My wildest dreams couldn’t have choreographed my dance journey any better than it’s been over the course of 25 years and going.
My literary journey has blown my mind. There have been so many ups and downs – many times I wondered why I’d chosen such a tough industry to live in. Rejection after rejection had me feeling like I didn’t belong here. My heart grew weaker each time one rolled in. “We love your voice – you’re such a talented writer,” the rejections would say. “But the story just isn’t a fit for us.” It was heartbreaking! But with the help of some amazing authors and friends, I kept pushing and never quit. People say full-time writers can’t make it – but my tenacity, drive, and diligence have kept me going, until I got my YES. My first traditionally published book was recently released, and the first of a three-book deal is coming soon!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Everyone who knows me understands that I consider myself a TACO AMBASSADOR! Come to visit me, and we’re going where the TACOS are! In fact, I love everything TACOS so much, my first three-book deal (the first release being Taco ‘Bout Love from Tule Publishing), are taco-truck centric romances. For me, it’s not fun if it doesn’t involve tacos! My dreams and my love are colliding!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
When the position I worked in Corporate America was eliminated nine years ago, my husband Cedrick encouraged me to pursue my passions in dance and writing. Without his constant, consistent love, encouragement and support, as well as that of my parents – Rob & Billie, I wouldn’t be able to walk into stores and see my books on the shelves today. They deserve this shout out & MORE.

Website: https://www.bingeworthybooks8.com

Instagram: @candiceosp

Facebook: Candice Ordered Steps Johnson

Image Credits
Headshots: Mikaela Elaine Photography

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