PHOTO: Candace George Conradi: An inspiring storyteller, compassionate mentor, and author of thought-provoking works that explore the beauty and complexity of life.
A Journey of Life, Loss, and Storytelling
Author Candace George Conradi explores themes of purpose, compassion, and life’s cycles in her books, while empowering aspiring writers and reflecting on her own deeply personal journey.
Candace George Conradi’s journey as an author and storyteller is a remarkable narrative of growth, creativity, and inspiration. Beginning her professional writing career at the age of 50, Conradi has built a portfolio of impactful works, each addressing profound themes of purpose, wisdom, and compassion. From authoring meaningful stories to guiding aspiring writers, her life and career reflect a deep commitment to the art of storytelling and the power of human connection.
From an early age, Conradi loved writing, but it wasn’t until later in life that she fully embraced her identity as a professional writer. She admits it took time to declare herself as such, but after the publication of her second book, The Gentle Pine’s Purpose, she finally owned her title with pride. “It’s in my soul,” she reflects.
Candace George Conradi captivates readers with heartfelt storytelling, transformative insights, and an unwavering dedication to uplifting others through her work.
Her books, often centred around themes of life’s purpose and the human journey, stem from her personal introspection and spiritual exploration. With a foundation in Catholic tradition and years of studying various philosophies and religions, Conradi weaves her life experiences with a sense of interconnected meaning. Through her works, she seeks to inspire and empower readers, helping them see the beauty of their own journeys.
“Gentle Pine reminds us that there is no reason to search beyond ourselves and our own personal journey for more.” – Candace George Conradi
One standout work, The Gentle Pine’s Purpose, is an allegorical tale inspired by a simple Christmas tree. After bringing the tree home, Conradi bonded with its presence and, one morning, wrote the first draft in a burst of intuition and creativity. The story, offering a poignant reminder that life is an ongoing cycle, resonated deeply with readers, even moving several to tears at her book launch. She hoped to remind readers that they are enough—there’s no need to search beyond themselves for fulfillment.
Conradi’s foray into non-fiction also left a powerful impact. Her collaboration with Stacey Lievens on The Soul Sitter’s Handbook, a guide for families dealing with the end of life, took her into the realm of hospice care. The book opened doors to speaking engagements and fostered her admiration for hospice workers, whom she calls the “finest organisation” for supporting families through the sacred and often uncomfortable reality of loss. Working on the project not only shifted her perspective on end-of-life care but also reinforced the importance of embracing life’s impermanence with courage and grace.
Her creative approach shines in her book Sweet Tweets, 140 Characters of Wisdom, a collection of short yet impactful reflections. Drawing inspiration from philosophers, religious leaders, and social influencers, Conradi demonstrated the value of concise communication. For her, these succinct messages are “ancient wisdom wrapped in current day phrases,” offering new ways to absorb timeless insights.
Conradi also channeled her passion for storytelling into nurturing other writers. As the founder of the Writers Inner Circle (WIC) and the storytelling performance platform, Storyteller’s Edge, she cultivated spaces where writers could share their work, support each other, and develop their skills. These communities bridged the gap between aspiring writers and their dreams, giving them opportunities to hone their craft and connect with audiences.
Despite her numerous accolades and the recognition her works have garnered, Conradi finds the greatest reward in the impact her writing has on readers. “There is no greater reward than a reader writing to me and saying that something I wrote inspired them, or moved them toward a different point of view, or helped them through a difficult time,” she shares.
Looking ahead, Conradi is preparing to release her memoir based on her childhood in a small Idaho town. The memoir delves into her upbringing among a family of entrepreneurial women who led a thriving entertainment venue for 20 years. The book promises to capture a unique period in her life, sharing rich stories of strength, ambition, and resilience.
Today, Candace George Conradi lives in Southern California with her husband of 44 years. While enjoying family time, writing, and long walks with her Aussie dog, Riley, she embodies the generosity and authenticity that have made her such an inspiring figure in the literary world. Her journey reminds us all of the boundless possibilities that storytelling holds—for connecting with ourselves and others, and for finding purpose in every chapter of life.
This article is based on an interview originally published in Reader’s House Magazine.
