Today we’d like to introduce you to Madison Aichele.
Hi Madison, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always loved writing and books. I knew it was part of my calling to be a writer from as early as I can remember (I crayon-colored and wrote my first “book” when I was eight), but I didn’t know what that would look like. In my early career, it looked like saying yes to opportunities that scared me, and I didn’t feel qualified for. That led me to several freelance writing opportunities and eventually landed me a full-time role with a tech startup.
As I grew as a writer, I recognized that I wanted my words to help people in a more meaningful way. So, I left my full-time job and focused on my personal brand. That vision has changed throughout the years, but the heart remains the same: telling people they matter, and so do their stories.
God has graciously opened doors for me to share that message. I served as Executive Director with a small, independent press (Calla Press Publishing) for two years, where I helped people steward their stories and share them with the world. I also wrote and published my book with Calla Press that captures my heart—True Things Last: Why Creative Dreams Matter Even If They Don’t Come True. Now, I have the gift of encouraging creatives who are pursuing their dreams through creative consulting, editing, and coaching.
It’s been a wild ride, but looking back, I’m always so grateful I said yes to things, even when I was scared. Showing up and trying your best goes a long way.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
One of the greatest struggles was remaining hopeful when there was a disconnect between what I knew was possible and what was happening. I’ve always been a dreamer and, to some degree, have believed the world should open up to ideas meant to help people. That wasn’t the reality I experienced. I’ve started and stopped several creative ventures because they just weren’t working, and it was devastating every single time. I remember how often I felt like a failure. There were days I didn’t want to get out of bed and face the endings that I wasn’t sure I’d make it through.
I think that’s why I care so much about ministering to people who are contending with that gap because I know how much it hurts—how much it doesn’t make sense. I still don’t have the answers for why some dreams come true, and others don’t, but I know that they all matter regardless of the outcome. That’s what I wish I knew when I was younger, rather than letting results dictate my sense of worth and purpose.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a freelance writer and a creative consultant. I walk alongside faith-based businesses and creatives in a variety of ways: writing articles, editing books at the developmental and line edit levels, offering self-publishing support, and coaching that meets people where they are on their creative journey. I also founded the Co-Creatives Collective community on Substack, where I highlight and encourage Christian creatives who are faithfully stewarding their God-given words, art, and ideas.
I’m most proud of my debut book: True Things Last. I poured my heart into telling a story that I hope helps others walking a similar path. It’s hard work to be a creative and to try to put beautiful things into the world. My goal was to walk that tender road with readers, to grasp their hand and tell them that their dreams matter—and so do they. And to remind them that they’re not alone in some of their most difficult or discouraging experiences.
What I hope sets me apart from others is my gentle approach toward people. I always want to take time to understand what someone is trying to communicate, how they want to share their story, and find a way to gently and kindly shepherd their projects in the right direction.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I try to lead with my core values, but the one I think stands out most in my journey is thoughtfulness. We live in a world where it’s so easy to send off quick replies and lose touch with the fact that we’re talking to humans on the other side of our screens. I’ve always tried to think about others and how I would feel if I were in their shoes. That’s shaped how I communicate with people, especially as I’ve grown as a leader. It’s worthwhile to be thoughtful in responses and to try to lead with love and patience. I haven’t always gotten it right, but when I have, it’s completely changed stressful situations into opportunities for productive conversations and healing.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.madisonaichele.com/
- Instagram: @madisonaichele
- Facebook: @madisonaichele
- Other: https://www.callapresspublishing.com/ourbooks/p/true-things-last-by-madison-aichele
Image Credits
Katlin Tara Photography
