Judica Salmon shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Judica, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
The thing I’m most proud of building that not everyone sees is my Substack newsletter, Moon Pentacles. Even the name has a fun, almost mystical origin. When I first thought about starting it, I knew I wanted to explore esoterica, tarot, and astronomy. So I asked myself: what’s the most beloved and timeless astronomical tool that people have always looked up to? The answer came instantly—the moon. Then I thought about tarot, which I was really into at the time, and asked myself: what’s the most fruitful and abundant card? For me, that was the Ace of Pentacles. So I combined the two—Moon Pentacles.
And here’s where it gets quirky: I already had my tarot deck in my hands, so I did a reading, and the Moon card and the Ace of Pentacles actually came out together. Later on, when I googled the phrase, I discovered that King Solomon had mystical sigils and jewels with the same name. To me, it felt like I got three confirmations that this was the right path.
Moon Pentacles has since become my creative space to write about spirituality, reflection, and empowerment in a way that mixes the mystical with the practical. It’s not something that’s loud or flashy, but it’s meaningful—and I’ve been quietly nurturing it like a hidden garden. So even if not everyone sees it yet, it’s something I’m deeply proud of building, because it represents trusting my instincts, staying consistent, and creating something with the potential to grow. The name was also my attempt to extinguish a hidden animosity I’ve always had with the moon—yes, animosity with the moon. I’m a Leo, a fire sign.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Judica, and I’d describe myself as someone who loves creating in both the seen and unseen worlds. One of those creations is Moon Pentacles, my Substack newsletter where I write about spirituality, reflection, and empowerment. It’s a more personal and introspective space, like a hidden garden I’ve been quietly cultivating.
I’m also the founder of So Tropica, a natural skincare brand inspired by tropical fruits like mango, lemon, and orange. The mission is to make skincare that’s natural, safe, efficient, and fun. What makes So Tropica unique is the way it blends affordability and effectiveness with a sense of joy—it’s not just about skincare, but about creating an uplifting experience.
Together, these projects reflect both sides of who I am: Moon Pentacles as my creative and mystical voice, and So Tropica as my entrepreneurial and tangible contribution. Right now, I’m focused on growing both—writing consistently for Moon Pentacles and preparing to launch So Tropica’s first hero product, a stretch mark serum.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
That question shifts the tone of the interview in a way I really appreciate—it feels almost philosophical. For me, the short answer is communication. Misunderstandings, unspoken feelings, or the fear of being vulnerable—those are the things that create distance and break bonds between people.
I say that not just in theory but from experience. I’ve seen how quickly silence or pride can unravel something meaningful. At the same time, I’ve also learned that openness—just the courage to say what’s true, even if it’s uncomfortable—has the power to repair and restore.
So I believe bonds break when communication fails, and they mend when we choose honesty and empathy, even when it’s difficult.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, there have definitely been moments when I almost gave up—moments when the obstacles felt heavier than my motivation, whether it was pursuing my creative projects or just navigating life’s challenges. There’s one that stands out: early on with my business I was trying to balance the vision I had with the realities of starting a business from scratch. It was overwhelming at times, and I questioned whether it was worth the effort.
What keeps me going is knowing that every challenge brings me closer to the future I’m building for myself. I realized that persistence isn’t about never feeling doubt; it’s about showing up despite it. That mindset has shaped the way I approach setbacks in every part of my life.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What truths are so foundational in your life that you rarely articulate them?
There are a few truths I hold that I rarely articulate. One is the importance of God—living by principles like merit, compassion, and piety—and balancing that with logic, so that faith and reason work together rather than in conflict.
Another foundational truth is that everything we do comes back to us. Our actions, intentions, and energy have a way of reflecting back, whether immediately or over time. I don’t often say it out loud, but it’s a guiding principle in how I live, create, and interact with the world. It’s a quiet reminder to act with integrity, and not to worry.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
What I believe deeply—maybe more than most people—is the power and importance of autonomy. I truly believe that you’re never going to be someone else, and no one is ever going to be like you. So much of life is spent trying to fit into expectations or compare ourselves to others, but the real freedom and fulfillment comes from embracing your own path and honoring your unique identity. Autonomy isn’t just about independence; it’s about understanding and owning who you are, and creating a life that reflects that.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sotropica.com
- Instagram: sotropica
- Facebook: So Tropica
- Other: Moon Pentacles newsletter: https://moonpentacles.substack.com/
Stretch Mark Serum: https://693046fc-2766-44e8-9215-468d1678f6a4.paylinks.godaddy.com/SMS
Ethiopian Face Mask: https://693046fc-2766-44e8-9215-468d1678f6a4.paylinks.godaddy.com/EFM
