Meet Emily O’Brien | Writer & Magazine Editor & Author of Things I Heard While Dating

We had the good fortune of connecting with Emily O’Brien and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Emily, how do you think about risk?
Risks are what keep life exciting. They’re that secret sauce. To me, that’s been an essential part of growth. It’s never been about being reckless; it’s been about trusting my instincts, being prepared, and believing in my ability to adapt. Every major step in my career—transitioning to full-time writing, moving both cross-country and abroad, building new connections, and publishing a book—came with a level of uncertainty. Yet each decision was guided by a clear vision of what I wanted to create and the impact I hoped to make.

Risks have propelled me forward by pushing me to learn quickly, stay resourceful, and remain open to opportunities I might have missed if I had played it safe. It’s been the driving force behind my ability to pivot. Rather than thinking of risk as a leap into the unknown, it’s more of a leap toward possibility—and that mindset has turned challenges into stepping stones throughout my career.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m a Raleigh-based writer and editor, and I’m currently the managing editor at SUCCESS magazine, which focuses on personal and professional growth. I’m passionate about telling compelling stories—whether profiling Olympians, small business owners, cookbook authors, or world-renowned architects.

One of my most exciting projects is my debut book, Things I Heard While Dating. It curates over 100 verbatim lines from real-life dates, marriages, and failed pickup attempts—paired with sharp backstories and dating advice. Blending humor with insight, the book captures the chaos and charm of modern dating in a way that’s relatable, entertaining, and perfect for sharing. It’s a lighthearted celebration of self-worth and resilience, proving that even awkward encounters can make great stories.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Gosh, Raleigh is just brimming with cool one-of-a-kind spots! I’d probably hit a local coffee shop for a quick pick-me-up and then dart around the Triangle area searching for unique finds or vintage goods. For lunch and dinner, there are plenty of spots to choose from where the atmosphere is as good as the food. In-between meals, I’d hit Dorothea Dix Park or the North Carolina Museum of Art for a stroll and cap off the night with some live jazz and a craft cocktail.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Ooooh, that’s a great question! I would have to say CreativeMornings, which is a free monthly lecture series designed to bring together members of the creative community. They have chapters all over the world, and a friend recommended them to me right after I moved cross-country as a way to help plug-in. Both the headquarters and the Raleigh-Durham chapter have been instrumental in fueling my passion for Things I Heard While Dating. I find so much value in this community that I actively volunteer.

Website: https://www.thingsiheardwhiledating.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emily_tells_stories/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilyobrien/

Other: https://emilytellsstories.com/

Image Credits
Nicola O’Brien