Today we’d like to introduce you to Casha Doemland.
Casha, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I am a freelance writer, prop stylist and the creator of a local LA organization Allies of Mother Earth. When I first moved to California, I had no idea what my career path would be. I, irresponsibly, decided to move across the country (from Georgia) on a whim and accepted any and all gigs that came my way.
Four years later, I am making headway in career paths that genuinely excite me and inspire me. So, I suppose you could say, all the miscellaneous gigs helped me collect the necessary skills to be where I am today, and for that I am grateful! Thank you to everyone who took a chance on me!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
My struggles and obstacles feel similar to those who have switched career paths or aspired to launch an organization. For starters, the life of a freelancer is not always a stable one. There have been times when I barely work in a month and am really pinching pennies to make ends meet, while other times I am booked 3-4 times in one week. It always changes, and that’s something I’ve had to make peace with if I am going to continue on this path.
Another one is rejection, especially for writing. I’ve had many editors and publications flat out not respond, and it’s just the nature of the beast. Although, that doesn’t generally soften the blow.
Please tell us about Allies of Mother Earth.
Allies of Mother Earth is an organization dedicated to showing love to the planet by organizing cleanups and fostering a community around eco-conscious living. Allies began in a random bout of inspiration when a friend asked if I’d like to spend the day after Thanksgiving picking up trash. It was an odd and random text, but one that I was thrilled to receive.
Together, we cleaned a whole city block in the Los Angeles Arts District, and I felt compelled to make cleanups a part of my day. For the next few weeks, I brought a reusable bag with me on all my walks and hikes, and then would shamelessly post what I found on Instagram. Eventually, friends and strangers asked how they could get involved, and Allies of Mother Earth was officially born.
In 2019, we completed four cleanups and an Eco-Friendly Market, and our goal for 2020 is to host 6-8 cleanups with another fall market. I have also been asked to speak on panels, and be part of summits. All of which I am eternally grateful for, and are probably what I am most proud of. It feels really great to be supported by your community as you try to enact change that could help the planet.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
This is a question I always struggle to answer, but I suppose if I had to, my personal success would go as follows: Allies of Mother Earth is hosting cleanups on a national level around the country, and I am continuing to speak on panels / at summits and host my Eco-Friendly Market. Essentially, really sparking a change and getting people fired up about the planet!
I am also a published author and a well sought after prop stylist.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.cashadoemland.com/
- Email: casha@cashadoemland.com
- Instagram: @cashad
Image Credit:
Motorcycle photo is Jack Strutz (@strutz)
Beach photo is Matt Shouse (@matt_shouse)
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