Who is Noelle Crooks?

I’m an author and founder with a clear purpose: to connect women, amplify their stories, and create spaces where they can truly thrive. I’ve never been one to fit into a box—I thrive on being multi-hyphenated, building businesses, and sharing the journey all online! I call NYC home, and it’s where I’m constantly dreaming up my next big move—whether it’s hosting events, building brands, or just navigating life as a modern Renaissance woman. I’m all about chasing ambition, embracing the chaos, and proving that you can have a little bit of everything in life if you’re bold enough to go for it. 

Can you tell us about your journey becoming an author?

From a young age, I dreamed of becoming an author—but I always imagined it happening later in life, when I was old, grey, and recounting a fabulous life story cue eye roll. Fast forward to 2020: while quarantining, I had just finished my 700th hour of Netflix and had a moment of clarity— I’m going to get really fat and stupid if I don’t do something more useful than binge watch TV! I needed something more meaningful. So, I gave myself “a little project.” 

One thing led to another, and that project turned into my first book. I had no idea what I was doing at the time. It was just me, my trusty MacBook Air, late-night snacks, and messy-bun writing sessions until 3 a.m. I didn’t have any formal experience writing books or navigating the publishing world, but I leveraged online resources and sheer determination.

A year later, I signed with CAA and landed my first book deal with Simon & Schuster. The experience was a testament to the power of believing in yourself and persevering through the unknown.

If there’s one piece of advice I’d share, it’s this: if you feel a calling in your heart, trust it. Lean in, even when it’s scary or unfamiliar. You never know where it might lead.

What inspired Under the Influence?

The inspiration for Under the Influence came from my own experiences navigating post-college life. I wanted to write the kind of book I wish I’d had during that confusing, exciting, and often overwhelming time. I was such a believer in the whole "girl boss" movement and wanted to embody it so badly, but I fell into hustle culture and learned the hard way how unsustainable and isolating it can be. 

I set out to create a book that’s fun—something you’d devour on the beach or discuss with your girlfriends over wine at a book club—but with a serious undercurrent. It touches on themes like social media, influencer culture, diversity in the workplace, and the complex dynamics between women in professional settings. 

Ultimately, I wanted Under the Influence to feel relatable and real, with a mix of humor and depth, because that’s what life really is: messy, complicated, and full of lessons we don’t see coming.

Favorite Girl Dinner Theme?

My favorite Girl Dinner NYC theme so far has definitely been Women of the Future. There’s something so inspiring about bringing together a group of women who are not only excelling in their industries but also shaping what success looks like for the next generation. That dinner felt incredibly empowering—it wasn’t just about celebrating what we’ve already accomplished but also about dreaming big and supporting each other as we pave the way forward.

The theme itself had such a unique energy. The conversations were thoughtful and bold, touching on everything from career aspirations to personal growth and the kind of future we want to build together. It was the perfect mix of ambition, inspiration, and connection—and seeing everyone come together in that way made it so special.

Dream Girl Dinner guest?

If I could have anyone at my table, it would be Emma Grede. She’s my ultimate idol—her vision, leadership, and the way she’s built brands with such intention and authenticity is something I deeply admire. She’s not just an extraordinary businesswoman—she’s a visionary trailblazer, redefining what it means to champion women and diversity in the industry.

I’d love the chance to meet her, hear her insights, and soak up her wisdom. She embodies the kind of drive and creativity I aspire to bring to my own work, and having her at a Girl Dinner would be a dream come true.

Favorite way to unwind?

When I’m not working on a project, I’m a big believer and proud supporter of rotting. You’ll find me in my little corner of the couch, wrapped in a weighted blanket, with sushi in one hand, my phone in the other, scrolling TikTok or browsing online sales while streaming something girly and unapologetically cheesy.

I could lie and say my favorite way to unwind is meditating or doing Reiki, but let’s be real—I’m here to keep it honest. Sometimes, the best self-care is letting yourself do absolutely nothing and loving every second of it!

How do you take your coffee?

I take my coffee decaf because, honestly, I’ve already got enough energy—and let’s be real, anxiety—I don’t need caffeine adding to the mix! And if I can take it in bed on a lazy weekend morning? Even better. That’s the dream.