Meet Susan Svoboda

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

Hi Susan, what habits do you feel play an important role in your life?
I am a shameless self-promoter. I tell everyone about my book, I Hate the Color Pink. I ask everyone I come in contact with if they belong to a group that might need a motivational speaker. I am determined to continue to share this important message regarding women’s health and being your own best health advocate. Do people say no or not return my calls? Yes, they do, but all I say is “Next!” I keep moving forward and keep asking. I am determined.
I have spoken to over 60 groups of women, sharing my story and hearing theirs in five different states in the last two years since the book came out on Amazon.
They say when you self-publish a book, it sells about 200 – 250 copies in its lifetime. I have sold over almost 1800 copies, and I believe it is because of my determination. If I don’t believe in my story, who will?
Sadly, one in eight women in the United States will get breast cancer. If not us, someone we know – a mother, a grandmother, a sister, a best friend. I will never stop advocating for early detection and regular mammograms.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I had written a blog for years and many friends kept saying, “You need to write a book.” I would always tell them, I don’t have a big enough story for a book. Then God tapped me on the shoulder and said, “Hey, kid, have I got a story for you!” I had to get breast cancer to get my story! I am proof that good comes from bad. Writing this book saved me from the depths of despair during the year that I had 38 doctor appointments! People often ask, “Do you really hate the color pink?” referring to the title. I reply, I hate those little pink ribbons that remind me of my breast cancer AND it’s a really catchy title for a book, don’t you think?!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Old Town Tustin – lunch at Rutabegorz that has been there for over 50 years!
Newport Beach – Charlie’s Chili and a walk down the pier
Poolside at my house – eating good food I prepared, having a fine glass of wine, sharing stories and laughs

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
In my book, I HATE THE COLOR PINK, I talk about finding “your tribe” in life. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, want the best for you, your success is their success. Women need other women. We empower each other. I have a beautiful group of girlfriends that do just that. They were there for me during my breast cancer journey.
As for continual support, my husband of 50 years, Mark, has believed in me and supported me through the many things I have done in my life. I always tell people, you will know my husband and me really well by the time you finish the book. It’s very candid!

Facebook: I Hate the Color Pink – author page