Embracing Vulnerability, Storytelling, and the Bounce Mindset
In this episode of The Bounce Mindset Podcast, we’re joined by Shelley Wilson, a multi-genre author, writing mentor, solo traveller, and champion of women’s voices. From her VW campervan adventures to bestselling novels and mentoring aspiring authors, Shelley shares a deeply honest look at her journey, her storytelling, and how writing helped her bounce forward from one of life’s darkest chapters.
Writing Across Genres and Wearing Many Hats
Shelley is a creative force with a career spanning self-help, young adult fantasy, historical fiction, and, most recently, romance. Her latest novel, Floating Solo, written during a spontaneous moment of inspiration, showcases her ability to pivot into new genres. But beyond her prolific writing, Shelley also mentors women who want to write their books, whether that’s a memoir, a business guide, or a novel.
“I support people to bring their stories to life,” Shelley explains. “It’s not just about writing, it’s about creating impact and embracing the vulnerability that storytelling demands.”
From Word Nerd to Published Author
Shelley’s love affair with storytelling began in childhood, scribbling in notebooks and diving into fantasy worlds where anything was possible. A pivotal moment came at 16 when her English teacher read her story aloud in class. “I was mortified and proud at the same time,” she laughs. “But I knew even then that I wanted people to hear my stories.”
Yet life took a detour. Marriage, children, and eventually divorce pulled Shelley away from writing. It wasn’t until she rediscovered books like The Secret that she found her way back to storytelling and herself.
Rebuilding Through Story
Shelley’s personal journey is one of immense courage. In a difficult and controlling marriage, her self-worth was slowly worn away. But her love for her children became the turning point. “I had this moment where I thought: I refuse to die and leave them with him. That was the moment I chose to survive.”
She left, rebuilt her life, and found strength through reading and reconnecting with others. “I went back to work, started making friends again, and began reading strong female characters. It reminded me of who I used to be, and who I could become again.”
The Power of Vulnerability in Writing
Shelley openly shares the emotional rollercoaster that comes with writing a book. From the impostor phenomenon to fear of judgment, she helps her clients navigate the ups and downs.
“Writing is vulnerable. Whether you’re telling your life story or writing fiction, those ideas come from your soul. The fear is real, but so is the transformation.”
She likens the writing process to building a sandcastle. “The first draft is you just shovelling sand. You then shape it into something beautiful later. But you can’t skip the messy part.”
From Trauma to Fiction: Healing Through Story
While Shelley hasn’t written a memoir about her experience with domestic abuse, she channels those emotions into her fiction. Her young adult novels often feature 16-year-old protagonists who are strong, flawed girls who find their voice and purpose. “They’re the girls I wish I’d been. Writing them is cathartic. It’s healing.”
She also uses journaling and ‘morning pages’ to offload emotion, a technique she recommends to anyone recovering from trauma.
A Life Beyond the Page
These days, Shelley’s greatest joy, apart from her grown-up children, is solo travelling in her VW campervan, Snoopy. “He’s the best investment I’ve ever made,” she says. Whether writing, researching for a novel, or simply recharging, her van adventures are the ultimate act of self-care and inner happiness.
“I’ve learned that happiness isn’t external. It’s inside. That took a while to realise, but once I did, everything shifted.”
A Legacy of Strength and Storytelling
Shelley’s story is one of post-traumatic growth. She’s not just bounced back, she’s bounced forward, building a life of purpose, creativity, and support for others.
“I wouldn’t change any of it. I’ve got my three incredible children, and I’ve created a life I love. If I can show other women that they can do the same, then it’s all been worth it.”
Her energy, humour, and honesty shine through everything she does, from mentoring sessions to her novels. “I’m proud of us,” she says of her family’s journey. “And I know I’m not finished yet.”
Want to Work With Shelley?
Shelley offers a range of ways to support women who want to write:
- Free Facebook Group – Start Writing Your Book: accountability threads, open submissions, ask-me-anything days.
- Membership Group – A monthly writing community with coaching calls, co-writing sessions, and a full resource portal.
- Power Hours – 1:1 mentoring calls for writers seeking clarity and confidence.
- One-to-One Mentoring – A three-month package for those ready to commit to writing their book.
You can also follow Shelley on LinkedIn and all major social platforms, where she shares behind-the-scenes writing tips, motivational content, and glimpses into life on the road in Snoopy, the campervan.
Shelley’s story reminds us that our voice matters, our past doesn’t define our future, and that sharing our truth, no matter how vulnerable, can spark healing, connection, and real transformation.
“If I waited until I believed in myself,” Shelley says, “I wouldn’t be doing anything. You don’t have to feel ready to take the first step, you just have to start.”
Do You Need Help Embracing Vulnerability?
Using The Bounce Mindset® Framework, you can turn your career ambitions into reality with a clear vision, understanding how vulnerability doesn’t have to hold you back.
“Without Rebecca’s support it would have taken so much longer to achieve our target and to raise the profile of the project and build a committed Advisory Board.” CJ – The Black Pounds Project
Get in touch here if you need more assistance overcoming life’s challenges.
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