Meet Victoria Richardson | Author & Poet

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

Hi Victoria, we’d love to hear what makes you happy.
Writing makes me happy because it brings me peace. It’s my way of letting go of worries and inviting calm into my life.

When I write, I release the thoughts and emotions that weigh me down. It’s like opening a window to let fresh air in, clearing out the mental clutter. This process helps me process my feelings and gain clarity.

Research supports this experience. Expressive writing has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being. By putting pen to paper, I not only find personal solace but also tap into a practice that promotes mental health.

In essence, writing is more than a hobby; it’s a therapeutic tool that helps me navigate life’s challenges and maintain inner peace.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Absolutely, I’d love to share more about my work and journey.

I am a writer deeply passionate about creating poetry books, short stories, and journals that resonate with the soul. One of my most cherished creations is my prayer journal titled Blessed Is She Who Has Believed, available on Amazon. This journal is designed to guide readers through daily reflections and prayers, fostering a deeper spiritual connection.

Another work close to my heart is The Butterfly Effect, a collection of poems and reflections that delve into the intricate threads of human existence. This book captures the chaotic and breathtaking beauty found within our lives, encouraging readers to embrace their journeys and transformations.(Amazon) I’m also incredibly excited about my upcoming poetry book titled Dark Honey. This is, without a doubt, my rawest and most personal collection to date.
It explores themes of pain, healing, identity, and transformation—all through a lens that’s both tender and unapologetically real. I poured my heart into every line. Dark Honey will be available soon on Amazon.com, and I truly believe readers will connect deeply with it. I can’t wait to release it and share this part of myself with the world. I’m also thrilled to announce the upcoming release of my new book, Where the Poem Begins — a collection of unfinished poem fragments created to spark creativity, emotion, and exploration. This project is close to my heart, and I’m so excited to offer a space where writers can do what they do best: write. Whether you’re just beginning your poetry journey or returning to the page after a long pause, this book invites you to start anywhere, feel deeply, and shape something uniquely your own.
—so stay tuned! Because I’m not finished yet!

What sets my work apart is its authenticity and vulnerability. I write from a place of raw emotion, aiming to connect with readers on a profound level. My writings are not just words on a page; they are pieces of my soul, shared to inspire, heal, and empower others.

The path to where I am today has been anything but easy. The journey is filled with numerous ‘no’s and rejections, which can be disheartening. However, I’ve learned invaluable lessons along the way. One of the most significant is to never dwell on things I can’t change and always remain true to myself. Embracing my authentic self has been liberating and has allowed my work to genuinely reflect who I am.

I want the world to know that I am unapologetically me—a beautiful mess who finds solace and joy in writing. I don’t sugarcoat my experiences; instead, I embrace them, understanding that they shape my narrative and artistry. Writing has always been one of my passions, and through it, I aim to touch lives, evoke emotions, and foster connections.

Thank you for allowing me to share my story. If you’re interested in exploring my work, you can find Blessed Is She Who Has Believed and The Butterfly Effect on Amazon. Your support means the world to me.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting Jackson, Alabama, for a week, I’d plan a cozy, creative, and soul-nourishing itinerary—one that reflects my love for quiet moments, good coffee, meaningful conversations, and poetry that stirs the heart. I may not get out much, but when I do, I gravitate toward places that feel like an extension of my inner world.

We’d start our mornings at some of my favorite coffee shops. Cascade Coffee Co. on College Avenue is a gem; it feels like a cross between a cozy library and a creative lounge, with plush chairs and a vibe that makes you want to stay awhile. For a more laid-back, neighborhood feel, Pine City Bakery & Deli offers a great porch to sit and watch the world go by.

Brunch is a must, and I’d take them to Manna Restaurant and General Store—it’s soulful and full of character, with a menu that feels like a love letter to Southern comfort food. Lil Touch of Cajun Grill is another favorite; they serve creative dishes that are both fun and satisfying. (eatatmanna.com)

In the evenings, we’d seek out poetry readings and open mics. While Jackson may not have a dedicated poetry venue, we could check out local listings for open mics or poetry readings happening during our visit.

The rest of the week would be filled with quiet walks, bookstore browsing, and maybe even a little writing session together. I’d want my friend to experience the Jackson I know—not just the tourist spots, but the tucked-away places where creativity lives and breathes. It would be a week of connection, inspiration, and the kind of joy that comes from being exactly where you’re meant to be.

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?
Absolutely, I’d love to share who deserves a heartfelt shoutout in my journey.

First and foremost, my deepest gratitude goes to my family, close friends and boyfriend. Their unwavering support and belief in me have been the bedrock of my resilience. During times when I doubted myself or faced challenges, their encouragement reminded me of my strength and purpose.

I also want to acknowledge the profound influence of expressive writing on my well-being. Engaging in writing has been a therapeutic outlet, allowing me to process emotions, alleviate stress, and gain clarity. Research supports this, indicating that expressive writing can reduce anxiety and improve mental health . This practice has been instrumental in helping me navigate life’s complexities and maintain inner peace.

Lastly, I extend my appreciation to the broader community of writers and mental health advocates. Their shared experiences and insights have provided inspiration and a sense of connection, reinforcing the importance of storytelling in healing and personal growth.

To all who’ve played a part in my journey—thank you. Your impact has been invaluable.

Website: https://victoriarichardson.my.canva.site/?fbclid=PAQ0xDSwKce8lleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABpw3wrI-xmZZvZ5oVfgdPW_EBxPKUlKT3fMMl9um-AKLdAczUznBxutHvHfVc_aem_K1tZ7PSn-h3YihTvnRX4cw

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_livingvictoriously?igsh=MXN5OWgxd2FjdXpmeQ==

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16PSkCjx1Z/

Image Credits
Matt Turner