For Dr. Sheila Renee Goodwin, writing is not just an art—it is a testimony of resilience, perseverance, and triumph. Her journey from kinship foster care to CEO, community leader, and now author is nothing short of inspiring. With a lifetime of experiences spanning entrepreneurship, property management, tax services, child advocacy, and the culinary arts, Dr. Goodwin has navigated through life’s toughest challenges and emerged with a story worth telling.
Her journey into writing is deeply personal. It is a means of documenting the lessons learned, offering guidance to those facing similar struggles, and leaving a legacy for generations to come. For Dr. Goodwin, the act of writing is a powerful vehicle for healing, inspiring, and advocating for those in need.
A Journey Rooted in Experience and Advocacy
Raised in kinship care, a form of foster care, Dr. Goodwin knows firsthand the struggles of navigating life without a structured support system. Her early years were marked by challenges, yet she persevered, carving a path that has now positioned her as a beacon of hope for children in foster care through her nonprofit organization, Foster with Love Inc.
Her mission is simple yet profound: to provide safety, care, and resources to society’s most vulnerable children. This passion for advocacy is reflected in her writing, where she shares personal stories of overcoming adversity and the importance of building a strong support system.
Major Milestones: A Career Built on Service and Leadership
Dr. Goodwin’s career is nothing short of remarkable. From owning a deli while attending culinary school to catering high-profile events for celebrities like Nick Cannon, she has proven that resilience and ambition can open doors to unexpected opportunities.
Her work in property management during Hurricane Katrina—where she helped house displaced families and organized a benefit dinner—showcases her dedication to serving others in times of crisis. It is these experiences that shape her writing, infusing it with themes of community, generosity, and perseverance.
Her achievements extend beyond advocacy. As the founder of Sheila’s Tax Service, Dr. Goodwin has spent over 25 years helping individuals, families, and businesses navigate the complexities of the tax code. Her expertise has even earned her recognition from the Republican Congressional Committee’s Business Advisory Council, where she was honored as Businesswoman of the Year.
Her writing reflects this multifaceted career, providing readers with insights on entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and overcoming systemic challenges.
Challenges in Writing: Overcoming Roadblocks
Despite her extensive experience, Dr. Goodwin faced challenges when transitioning into writing. Finding the right editor and publisher proved to be difficult and costly, but like every other challenge in her life, she approached it with determination.
“Writing is a journey, just like life. You have to keep pushing forward, even when obstacles arise,” she says. Through networking and learning the intricacies of self-publishing, she was able to bring her work to fruition, ensuring that her message reaches those who need it most.
The Power of Mentorship and Representation
Mentorship has played a critical role in shaping Dr. Goodwin’s journey as an author. She credits faith leaders and successful professionals for inspiring her to put her experiences into words. Their wisdom encouraged her to use storytelling as a means of guidance, empowerment, and faith-building.
She is also a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in literature, recognizing that representation is crucial in contemporary storytelling. “Children in foster care, single mothers, entrepreneurs—all of them need to see their stories reflected in books,” she emphasizes. Her work ensures that these voices are heard and acknowledged.
Advice for Aspiring Writers: Write with Purpose
To those looking to embark on a literary journey, Dr. Goodwin offers this advice:
“Read more and see more! Writing is about expanding your perspective. The more you expose yourself to different experiences, the richer your writing becomes.”
She encourages writers to:
- Stay authentic to their stories
- Write with the intent to educate, uplift, and inspire
- Never be afraid to seek help when navigating the publishing process
Future Projects: Expanding Her Legacy
With a strong foundation in entrepreneurship, advocacy, and financial literacy, Dr. Goodwin is focused on writing books that not only tell her personal story but also provide practical guidance on navigating challenges in business, foster care, and leadership.
Her future projects include:
- A guide for children aging out of the foster care system, offering resources on financial stability, education, and career planning.
- An entrepreneurship handbook for women, detailing her journey in business and providing strategies for success.
- A cookbook infused with personal stories, highlighting her journey in the culinary world while sharing meaningful recipes.
Through these projects, Dr. Goodwin aims to leave a lasting impact on the next generation, ensuring that her experiences serve as both inspiration and instruction.
Balancing Writing and Life: A Testament to Prioritization
As a mother, grandmother, entrepreneur, and community leader, Dr. Goodwin knows the importance of balance. Faith, prayer, and strategic prioritization are key to maintaining equilibrium. “I make time for what truly matters—God, family, and my mission,” she explains.
She unplugs from social media when needed, sets clear priorities daily, and embraces rest as a necessity, not a luxury. This discipline allows her to pour into her writing without sacrificing her personal responsibilities.
A Final Message to Readers
To the readers of Today’s Author Magazine, Dr. Goodwin shares this powerful message:
“Your story is your power. Whether you’ve faced trials, setbacks, or struggles—never be ashamed to tell your truth. Someone, somewhere, needs to hear it. Writing is not just about you—it’s about leaving a legacy, giving hope, and showing others that they too can overcome.”
About Dr. Sheila Renee Goodwin
Dr. Sheila Renee Goodwin is a philanthropist, entrepreneur, and author dedicated to empowering children in foster care, advocating for financial literacy, and mentoring women in business. She is the CEO and founder of Foster with Love Inc., an organization committed to supporting children in foster care and helping them transition successfully into adulthood.
With over 25 years of experience as a tax professional, she is also the owner of Sheila’s Tax Service, where she helps individuals and businesses navigate financial challenges. Her past work in property management and disaster relief has been widely recognized, and she was named Businesswoman of the Year by the Republican Congressional Committee’s Business Advisory Council.
Her writing focuses on faith, resilience, and business acumen, aiming to educate and uplift marginalized communities. Through her books and nonprofit work, Dr. Goodwin continues to leave a legacy of service, empowerment, and inspiration.
