I realized I could reach a much larger audience by writing stories with ideas/lessons for anyone across the internet, versus the 30 kids per hour in the classroom.
Kelley Kay Bowles Gusich · In Her Own Words
In Conversation
Kelley for Bold. Brilliant. Unstoppable.
Read the transcript
Kelley Kay Bowles Gusich: Speaker: Kelley Gusich, Writer and EducatorWhat does being an Influential Woman mean to you?Kelley Gusich: OK. Being an influential woman just means to me that the things that I have done and that I say might inspire another person to be able to do and say the things that they want to do, and that's all.What's one piece of advice you would give to younger women chasing their dreams?Kelley Gusich: All right, one piece of advice I would give to younger women chasing their dreams is the same advice I think anyone would give to any person chasing their dreams, which is just do it one step at a time, baby steps, do one thing and then the next thing. And I mean, it's, it's very cliched, but true. Anything you want to do, you just need to approach. From a one step at a time mentality. Yes, I, I don't know. Does that sound like advice that people can use? I hope so.
Her Story
About Kelley
Kelley Bowles/Gusich is a seasoned writer and educator with a passion for storytelling and community engagement. With a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Lacrosse University and a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature from the University of the Pacific, Kelley has spent over a decade shaping young minds as an English and Drama teacher at Fruita Monument High School. Her dedication to students and literacy has extended beyond the classroom through her freelance writing for ZCode Media, where she crafts community-centered articles highlighting local volunteers, students, and businesses.
In 2015, Kelley achieved a significant milestone in her writing career by selling her cozy mystery novel to Red Adept Publishing. The book, now titled Murder Makes the Grade, is slated for release in the coming year. Kelley is also venturing into memoir writing, blending humor and self-reflection in her latest project, further showcasing her versatility as a storyteller.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kelley is committed to giving back through volunteer work with the National MS Society, providing support via the MS Friends Hotline. Her work reflects a consistent thread of empathy, creativity, and dedication to community—whether through the written word, teaching, or hands-on volunteer efforts.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kelley
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being both stubborn and kind.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to not stop, no matter the challenges.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to keep going, no matter the obstacles.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The value most important to me in both my work and personal life is kindness.
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