Follow the Water: Ellen Cochrane on Writing Survival Stories and Pursuing Dreams at Any Age

In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp welcomes Ellen Cochrane, author of the debut novel Follow the Water. The book tells the remarkable true story of Juliane Koepcke, a 17-year-old who survived a mid-air plane breakup over the Peruvian Amazon and walked for 11 days through the jungle to safety. Ellen shares the fascinating journey that led her to write this powerful survival story. After more than 20 years as a teacher, she returned to school during the COVID pandemic to pursue a master's degree in science writing at Johns Hopkins. While revisiting journals she had written as a teenager, she rediscovered the story that would eventually become her debut book. Throughout the conversation, Ellen reflects on how life experiences—travel, teaching, writing, and studying nature—became puzzle pieces that ultimately prepared her for this moment. Her story is a powerful reminder that dreams can evolve over time and that it's never too late to pursue a new path or creative passion. FDH65_031026 Key Discussion Points (with time stamps): (01:31) The incredible true survival story behind Follow the Water (02:37) Ellen's early journaling habit and how it shaped her writing journey (03:20) Discovering the story again while pursuing a master's degree in science writing (05:02) How writing the book helped Ellen reconnect with her younger self (05:54) Using storytelling to inspire young readers to explore science and nature (06:03) Milestones along her journey including teaching and traveling abroad (07:03) Working on her next survival novel set in Siberia (07:48) The "aha moment" during COVID that pushed her toward a writing career (09:48) Overcoming the obstacle of getting published (12:50) Self-talk strategy: "Just put your foot forward and keep going." (13:50) The emotional moment of finishing her first full-length book (15:02) Inspiring young girls to pursue science and discovery (16:57) Why mentorship is critical for aspiring writers (18:45) How life's experiences act like puzzle pieces leading to your purpose (21:28) Favorite quote from Shirley Chisholm about creating your own seat at the table Notable Quotes: "One step at a time—just put your foot forward and keep going." "All the experiences we have in life build upon each other." "You're never too old to pursue your dreams." "If they don't invite you to the table, bring a folding chair." – Shirley Chisholm Takeaways: Journaling can be a powerful tool for discovering and shaping your future dreams. Life experiences often act as puzzle pieces that prepare you for your purpose. Pursuing education or new goals later in life can open unexpected doors. Persistence is essential when navigating challenges like publishing or creative work. Mentorship can accelerate growth and guide aspiring writers or dreamers. Stories of survival and perseverance inspire resilience in readers of all ages. Connect with Guest: • Website: https://ellencochrane.com/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmcochrane/ • Order the book: The Unbelievable True Story of a Teenager's Survival in the Amazon Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: [@fanaticaldreamher] • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ • April's email: [email protected] Join the DreamHer Community: Subscribe, share, and leave us a review if this episode inspired you. Don't forget to tag us with your favorite takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer on social media!