Interview with Angela Rahim: Junior Herbalist

1. Please Introduce Yourself. (Tell us a little bit about your background and family- perhaps also share briefly about your twin sister, who illustrated the books). 

I’m Angela Rahim, a mother of 7 children, author, medicine woman, and yoga instructor. I currently reside in Cleveland but hail from Baltimore. My identical twin sister illustrates my children’s herbal adventure series about a young boy from Baltimore.

2. What inspired you to create the company “ Sam the Herbalist”?

This is a great question. The story is inspired by my children. I started my herbal studies when I was in my early 20s. I have six sons and they are always with me when I’m making herbal remedies, in the garden, or even foraging. They even know how to go out and find the herbs needed for certain things. I thought it would make a great story to teach children how to reconnect with nature and know that there is more to plants than meets the eye.

3. What were some of the personal challenges you encountered during the creation of your company? 

Quite honestly, none! It was a very smooth process. My twin sister and I really did our twin thing! We just vibed and did the work. I felt the book would be well received, it honestly went beyond my expectations. 

4. Is Sam named for one of your children? If so – How old was Sam when you started? How does he feel about being the star of the books? Are your other children interested as well in creating their own books?

Sam is named after my late father and grandfather- both named Samuel. One of my sons also has the middle name Samuel. So, Sam is modeled after my sons in behavior and looks, he has qualities of each of my six sons. My sons are really creative and want to author their own books as well.

5. What is the main message of the books, and how do kids respond to the stories? ( Any feedback from parents on how their kids react after reading them.)

The main message is that you don’t have to live in a rural area to have access to wonderful medicinal plants. You can live in the city and still meet some amazing plants. Children have really responded well to the series. I am seriously speechless every time a parent or child expresses their love of Sam.

6. Can you tell us more about the Herbal Courses and how parents can register their kids to participate?

I have been teaching online for YEARS! I have been teaching herbal adult and children classes online and I love it. Nowadays I have been teaching more children’s classes than adults. It’s every weekend for four weeks. Children from around the world, Abu Dhabi, London, California etc join me for classes. It’s really a wonderful experience. To register parents can go here: www.samthejrherbalist.com

7. If you had an opportunity to share with parents why “Sam the Herbalist” is something unique their children can absolutely benefit from, what would you tell them?

In a society where we are constantly behind our screens, Sam The Junior Herbalist encourages children to get out in nature and learn about plants.

8. What’s the best way to purchase the books?

The best way is via www.samthejrherbalist.com !

9. Is there anything you have learned along the way that you wish you had known at the beginning of launching your company that might benefit other women entrepreneurs? 

That I should think bigger, believe more, and not be afraid. Mistakes happen, sometimes it doesn’t all go as planned but keep striving

10. What’s the next project you’re working on? ( Anything you can share with us now or maybe hints on what to expect?

I am working on the next book SHHHH it’s a secret. I never tell the next case until it debuts *winks*