Embracing Authenticity: A Conversation with Author Christian Hurst
In our latest episode of EZ Conversations, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Christian Hurst, author of the Lilly Starling series. Christian's journey from a career in advertising and marketing to publishing novels is nothing short of inspiring. Throughout our conversation, which naturally flowed from his personal journey to his literary endeavours, we explored the themes of self-discovery, storytelling, and the power of human connection.
From Corporate Creativity to Literary Passion
Christian Hurst's transition from a corporate world focused on advertising and marketing to authorship is deeply rooted in his lifelong passion for storytelling. He shared that his background in corporate branding freed him from the fear of putting his work out there—a fear many young artists face when sharing a piece of themselves with the world. Christian's ability to embrace and navigate this fear has allowed him to publish his novels and connect with his audience authentically.
The Journey of Self-Discovery
One of the central themes of our conversation was the importance of a strong sense of self. Growing up Mormon, Christian experienced the difficulties of being an outsider, which ultimately shaped his perspective and life choices. He emphasizes the need to define oneself by personal truths rather than external expectations. Christian’s reflection on this personal journey highlights a crucial lesson: embracing oneself fosters resilience in the face of life's challenges.
The Power of Storytelling in Creating Connection
Christian shared how storytelling, science fiction, and literature have provided a framework for understanding himself and others. His stories go beyond entertainment by offering audiences a space to explore significant themes such as identity and agency. In his Lilly Starling series, Christian integrates real-world complexities into his characters, allowing readers to see themselves and their struggles reflected in the narrative.
Social Media: Connection or Distraction?
In today's digital age, Christian sees social media as both a tool for connectivity and a form of "junk food" for communication. While acknowledging its potential for genuine human interaction, he urges caution against its superficial connections. Encouraging deliberate, healthy use of social media, Christian emphasizes the importance of authentic, enriching connections over mere entertainment.
Mental Health: Acceptance and Embracement
Christian speaks candidly about his mental health journey, including living with ADHD and bipolar disorder. His openness underscores the importance of self-acceptance and continuous self-improvement. He encourages others to embrace their unique mental landscapes as integral to their identity, rather than as limitations.
Conclusion: The Hero’s Journey Within Us
Our conversation with Christian Hurst not only delved into the art of storytelling but also highlighted the universal human experience of navigating challenges and discovering our authentic selves. Christian's insights reflect a profound understanding of the hero’s journey within each of us—facing adversity, embracing our unique attributes, and connecting more deeply with those around us.
For those interested in exploring further, Christian Hurst’s works, including his latest installments in the Lilly Starling series, are available online. Follow him on social media at @churstublishing for more updates.
With gratitude, we thank Christian for sharing his journey and insights with us, and for providing a roadmap to embrace our own hero's journey by remaining true to ourselves.
