- The author, in Attraction-mode
Yes, it’s a mouthful. Tea (pronounced like Tay’ah) Del Alma Silvestre is a name I picked out for myself in college. It’s Spanish for “Torch Light of the Wild Soul.”
No, I was NOT smoking pot at the time. It was actually the result of one too many women’s studies classes. And the fact that I was a divorced, single-mom returning to school and following her dream of becoming a writer (with a Bachelor’s Degree) and changing the world.
Before the divorce, there was a marriage. Not a very good one, but one that set me on the path to entrepreneurship. My first small business was born just 13 months after my son. And that itty bitty business taught me to believe in myself.
Twenty-some odd years later, I sit before you a published author. Self-published, yes. But officially published, nonetheless. To be honest, this isn’t my first attempt at self-publication either. I put together a collection of poetry in college and printed out the cutest little chap books you ever did see. About 50 copies, or so. (But I digress..)
So, not only am I an officially published author, but I’m also working on my third small business. And after teaching the basics of marketing to literally hundreds of other small biz owners, I think I’m gonna get it right this time.
There are tons of gory details in between all of the starts and stops. Some of which, you probably experienced too — a weird economy, clients who disappeared owing thousands and the trials and triumphs of figuring out how to have a life, be true to your vision and make real change in the world.
As a writer and gastronaut with 20 years of marketing expertise, it was only natural that I should start my latest company, The Word Chef. I’m currently coaching and teaching solopreneurs around the world how to think bigger about their business dreams and how to implement strategically. I’m also the founder of the Tastiest Small Biz Brand Awards and speak nationally on business and online marketing strategies.
I live in Silicon Valley with my Mr. Spouse, Ira. And no, we don’t have any pets. At our age, we’ve grown to appreciate the carefree life of a home without kids and pets — we can pick up and take off at a moment’s notice and don’t have to worry about anyone else but ourselves. Since I spend all my nurturing energy on Ira and my clients, there really isn’t any left for a cat. (Even our one houseplant feels neglected, I’m sure.)
You can learn more about me at theWordChef.com.