Meet Justine Green | Award-Winning Author & Doctor of Education
We had the good fortune of connecting with Justine Green and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Justine, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
My story starts at birth. I was born with atresia and microtia. Microtia is a condition where the outer ear does not develop properly and atresia is the absence of the ear canal, leaving me deaf in my left ear. Knowing I was different from birth, and boasting three reconstructive surgeries under my belt, I learned to read lips and worked hard through school. I used my disability as motivation, and ultimately found my life’s purpose through these challenges. My passion for inspiring others moved me to write a 5x award-winning story, and now series, showing readers to love themselves and that everyone’s imperfections are what make them perfect!
I am whole-heartedly an advocate for children with disabilities. Growing up, I needed a story like “Completely Me” and I hope to spread understanding about differences and increase awareness. I am an inclusive educator, administrator, author, mother of two and I truly believe that my upbringing impacted who I am today and who I continue to strive to become.
Due to my background and upbringing, it is very important to give back to my disabled community. A portion of each book sale goes to a disability-based charity. We have also partnered with the Special Olympics to provide “Completely Me” to children around the country.
What should our readers know about your business? What are you most proud of and what are some lessons you’ve learned along the way?
I have my doctorate in education, I was an inclusive educator, principal, learning specialist, mommy & me instructor and author. Life has taken turns I would have never expected, but I’m going along with it. It has not been an easy road, but the tough things are usually worth it. Last year, I had two little ones at home, I was the general studies teacher and the principal during a pandemic and I released three children’s books. It was the hardest year of my life. Small, attainable goals and time management helped me get through each day as well as constantly reassessing business decisions with my husband/business partner. Green Rose Publishing and the Completely Me series are not about my brand or me, it’s about my passion. Educating children about understanding differences means the world to me and we are excited to see where we can take it.
You asked me what I’m most proud of… I would say that I’m proud of my book series, the five awards we have won since “Completely Me” was published July 2020, being named a “Social Impact Hero”, my former students, but mostly my family.
Some lessons I’ve learned along the way include: 1) use your time wisely. Everyone is given the same 24 hours in a day, make the most of yours and push towards your goals daily. 2) small, attainable goals make big life steps into doable, reasonable mini-steps. For example, if you have to write a five-page paper, tell yourself that each day you will write a minimum of one paragraph. Sitting in front of the computer, thinking about and working on your paper a little each day will encourage you to write more than just a paragraph. 3) Be confident in your decisions. Make the right choice for yourself/your family at that time and don’t look back. Trust yourself. 4) Put good out into the world. If you have the means and ability to help others and spread kindness, do it. That good karma will come back to you.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would have two separate itineraries: one for adult time and a kid-friendly option.
My best friend loves to be close to the water, so I would probably take her to Kiki on the River, Nikki Beach, Il Gabbiano, Wharf, and Sushi by Bou. We would go to a show at the Faena Theater and have a drink at the Broken Shaker.
With kids, I would start at the Frost Science Museum because my son loves the planetarium. We’d eat at Chicken Kitchen (one of the Miami foods my husband and I still crave in Boca Raton). We love Zoo Miami, Butterfly World, and if it’s during season I’m bringing everyone to Knaus Berry Farm. Yum!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband, Todd, for believing in me and my story. For starting our business together and all the support he has provided over the years.
My parents deserve a big shoutout because they were my first advocates and taught me to be proud of who I am, to utilize accommodations given to me, and to never let my disability stop me.
Website: greenrosepublishing.com
Instagram: @drmommygreen @completelymebook
Twitter: @drmommygreen
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drmommygreen
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzFsF7jnxAoJNo9daVOdN_g/videos
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