Meet Mike Cobb

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mike Cobb and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mike, other than deciding to work for yourself, what was the single most important decision you made that contributed to your success?
Other than deciding to work for myself, the single most important decision I made was to not only embrace change—but to learn to thrive on it. Throughout my career, I’ve sought out the unfamiliar, the evolving, the unpredictable. I came to view each transition not as a disruption, but as an invitation: to expand my knowledge, to explore new industries, and to push beyond what I thought I was capable of. That mindset allowed me to move fluidly from computational quantum chemistry to product development, from founding companies to building a thriving consulting practice, and ultimately to reinventing myself as a writer of historical fiction and true crime.

Change, for me, has never been the enemy of stability—it has been the engine of growth. By staying curious and open, I’ve been able to seize opportunities others might have missed, connect the dots across disciplines, and build a career that’s been as rewarding as it has been varied. Reinvention became not just a survival skill but a source of joy. I didn’t just adapt to change. I learned to relish in it.

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.
After a long and rewarding career as a scientist, entrepreneur, and consultant, I made the decision to pursue creative writing full-time. Writing has always been a part of my life, but it wasn’t until I retired from my consulting practice that I had the time and space to dedicate myself fully to it. In many ways, the transition was seamless—because I’m deeply passionate about what I do. Sure, there have been challenges along the way, but when you’re doing what you love, even the hard parts feel like meaningful work.

What sets my writing apart is the way it bridges the gap between literary and genre fiction. I strive to tell stories that not only keep readers turning pages but also linger with them long after the final chapter. My books explore themes like justice, memory, identity, and redemption—set against richly researched historical backdrops. I’ve worked hard to avoid formulaic storytelling; instead, I aim for narratives that are emotionally resonant and intellectually engaging, grounded in the human condition.

The most important lesson I’ve learned is this: pursue your passion, find where it intersects with your natural strengths, and then figure out how to shape that intersection into something productive and meaningful. That’s been the driving force behind my career evolution—from chemistry labs to boardrooms to the written page. I want the world to know that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself, and that the stories I tell come from a place of deep curiosity, empathy, and purpose.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If a best friend were visiting for a week, I’d split our time between the dynamic rhythm of Midtown Atlanta and the restorative calm of the North Georgia mountains. We’d start in Atlanta, where the mix of culture, food, and green space makes it easy to craft a memorable few days. On our first day, we might head to the Atlanta History Center—one of the city’s real gems—for an immersive journey through Southern history, followed by lunch at Lyla Lila, where the pasta is handmade and the vibe is effortlessly chic. In the afternoon, we’d wander through the Atlanta Botanical Garden, and then stroll through Piedmont Park, a perfect spot to people-watch or just take in the skyline views.

One day would be reserved for drinks and conversation at the Bantam Pub, a favorite neighborhood hangout in the Old Fourth Ward, followed by dinner at Ecco, where the European-style small plates and warm hospitality never disappoint. Another day, we’d explore the BeltLine—maybe starting at Ponce City Market, walking the Eastside Trail, and ducking into Krog Street Market for a laid-back lunch.

And somewhere along the way, we’d have to fit in drinks on the rooftop at the Clermont Hotel.

We might even catch a show at the Alliance Theatre, depending on what’s playing, or enjoy the exhibits at the High Museum.

Midweek, we’d escape to Blue Ridge, where the pace shifts and nature takes center stage. We’d hike a portion of the Benton MacKaye Trail or drive to Brasstown Bald for panoramic mountain views. In town, we’d grab lunch at the General Ledger and browse local shops, including Copper Fox Books, before settling in for a quiet evening on the lake.

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?
My journey wouldn’t be what it is today without the encouragement and belief of others along the way. I’d like to start by recognizing Mrs. Barker, my sixth-grade teacher, who was the first to make me truly believe that I could do anything I set my mind to. At an age when confidence is still forming and possibilities seem both infinite and uncertain, she planted the idea that determination and curiosity could carry me anywhere. That quiet, unwavering support stayed with me, shaping how I approached challenges in every chapter of my life.

More recently, as I’ve entered the world of writing and publishing, I owe an enormous debt of gratitude to my critique group—Glen Heefner, Julia Sennette, and Dru Sumner. Their thoughtful feedback, sharp insights, and steady encouragement have helped me hone my voice and refine my storytelling. Writing can be a solitary pursuit, but their companionship and honest critique have made all the difference. Without them, I wouldn’t be the writer I’ve become—or the one I’m still becoming.

Website: https://mikecobbwriter.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cobbmg/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mgcobb/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MGCobbWriter

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mikecobbwriter