From Idea to Bookshelf: The World of Publishing with Dr. Heather Davis

Read and Write with Natasha

#Arts #Natasha Tynes #Books #Business #Marketing #Podcasting Education #Authors #Fiction #Writing #Read

17:27

Why do so many of us get nervous when public speaking? Communication expert Lawrence Bernstein says the key to dealing with the pressure is as simple as having a casual chat. He introduces the "coffee shop test" as a way to help you overcome nerves, connect with your audience and deliver a message that truly resonates. After the talk, Modupe explains a similar approach in academia called the "Grandma test," and how public speaking can be as simple as a conversation with grandma. Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey ! Become a TED Member today at https://ted.com/join Learn more about TED Next at ted.com/futureyou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

about a year ago 44:41

MP3•Episode home

Dr. Heather Davis, an expert book coach and advocate for diversity in literature, joins me to unravel the journey of an idea as it transforms into a compelling narrative.
We discuss the nuances of authorship, from the birth of a concept to navigating the corridors of publishing, all while championing voices that reflect the true spectrum of humanity.
In an industry that's evolving with the times, Heather provides a backstage pass into the world of book coaching, distinguishing it from editing and illustrating its profound impact on the writing process.
The conversation highlights how mentors like Heather work alongside authors to polish their craft, tackle challenges, and tailor their paths to publication—whether it's with heavyweight publishers or through the avenues of hybrid and self-publishing.
For writers aiming to leave their mark on the world of books, this episode is a roadmap and a source of inspiration.
Have a comment? Text me!

Support the show

****************************************************************************
➡️ P.S.: 📬 If you love the conversations on this podcast, you’ll love my Substack newsletter. I share personal stories, publishing advice, and tools to help you grow as a writer. Subscribe for free or become a paid supporter to access it all.

Chapters

1. From Idea to Bookshelf: The World of Publishing with Dr. Heather Davis (00:00:00)

2. Diversity in Writing and Publishing (00:00:06)

3. Navigating the Book Coaching Process (00:04:36)

4. Publishing Routes and Author Success (00:11:34)

5. Future Trends in Reading and Publishing (00:22:20)

6. Book Coach Discusses Story Development (00:28:46)

86 episodes

From Idea to Bookshelf: The World of Publishing with Dr. Heather Davis

Read and Write with Natasha

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Support the show

Chapters

1. From Idea to Bookshelf: The World of Publishing with Dr. Heather Davis (00:00:00)

2. Diversity in Writing and Publishing (00:00:06)

3. Navigating the Book Coaching Process (00:04:36)

4. Publishing Routes and Author Success (00:11:34)

5. Future Trends in Reading and Publishing (00:22:20)

6. Book Coach Discusses Story Development (00:28:46)

86 episodes

#Arts #Natasha Tynes #Books #Business #Marketing #Podcasting Education #Authors #Fiction #Writing #Read

All episodes

Read and Write with Natasha

1
Dead Bodies and Dancing Ghosts: A Writer's Island Adventure 40:49

3 days ago40:49

40:49

What would drive someone to leave behind a comfortable six-figure corporate career and sell everything they own to pursue writing? For JD Barker , New York Times bestselling author and collaborator with James Patterson, it was a calculated risk that changed everything. In this conversation, Barker reveals the eerie inspiration behind his upcoming thriller Something I Keep Upstairs, a real-life haunted house perched on a tiny granite island just off the New Hampshire coast. He describes his personal experiences visiting the isolated structure and the visceral, instinctual dread it evoked. "I felt something really weird. I just did not want to be in there," Barker confesses, explaining how the island's dark history as a quarantine facility, prison, and site of mysterious deaths dating back centuries formed the foundation for his novel's supernatural elements. The conversation discusses modern publishing as Barker shares his journey from indie author to creating his own imprint with Simon & Schuster. His unconventional marketing approaches, from television commercials to streaming platforms and innovative BookTok strategies, showcase why his books consistently reach audiences that other authors miss. JD's daily writing discipline (even while working 80-hour weeks in finance), strategic business thinking, and willingness to reinvent himself demonstrate what it takes to succeed in today's publishing landscape. As he explains his philosophy: "I look at what everybody else is doing and then I try to come up with something different." Listen now to discover how this approach transformed his life and might just transform yours. Have a comment? Text me! Support the show **************************************************************************** ➡️ P.S.: 📬 If you love the conversations on this podcast, you’ll love my Substack newsletter. I share personal stories, publishing advice, and tools to help you grow as a writer. Subscribe for free or become a paid supporter to access it all.…

Read and Write with Natasha

1
When Science Fiction Becomes Reality with Kira Peikoff 38:48

10 days ago38:48

38:48

What if anyone could have a biological child with anyone, regardless of gender, fertility, or age? That’s the provocative premise behind Baby X , the new novel by author and bioethicist Kira Peikoff . In this episode, we explore the world of In Vitro Gametogenesis (IVG), a cutting-edge technology that transforms ordinary cells into sperm or eggs using stem cells. It’s already been tested in mice. Humans may be next. Kira explains how IVG could revolutionize parenthood for same-sex couples, single parents, and those facing infertility, while also confronting the chilling potential for misuse, like unauthorized reproduction using stolen celebrity cells. With a master’s degree in bioethics from Columbia and a background in science journalism, Kira brings deep insight to this discussion at the intersection of science, ethics, and policy. She traces her fascination with biotechnology back to her early days as a reporter, covering President Bush’s stem cell veto. We also explore: Her journey publishing five novels How she markets science-driven fiction Why medical thrillers are still a male-dominated genre, despite focusing on women’s bodies Curious about the future of reproduction—and the stories we’ll tell about it? Hit play and prepare to rethink what’s possible. Have a comment? Text me! Support the show **************************************************************************** ➡️ P.S.: 📬 If you love the conversations on this podcast, you’ll love my Substack newsletter. I share personal stories, publishing advice, and tools to help you grow as a writer. Subscribe for free or become a paid supporter to access it all.…

Read and Write with Natasha

1
One Author's Mission to Inspire Teens Through History's Lessons 41:18

16 days ago41:18

41:18

What happens when a marketing strategist decides history shouldn't be boring? In this captivating conversation, Paul Lloyd Hemphill shares how a simple question to his teenagers about history sparked an unexpected creative journey. When they repeatedly called history "boring," Hemphill set out to change the narrative, literally. Hemphill shares the fascinating evolution of his book, Inspiration for Teens , which uses stories from the Battle of Gettysburg to teach leadership skills and character development to young people. What began as management literature found its true audience only after two teenage girls suggested a title change, transforming it into an Amazon bestseller almost overnight. His practical approach to self-publishing, studying bestsellers at the library, hiring professional designers, and choosing colors based on market research provides valuable insights for aspiring authors. The conversation takes an intriguing turn as Hemphill explains his decision to adapt his content into a video series called "America's 52 Stories." By adding thought-provoking questions at the end of each video, he created an unexpected benefit: meaningful conversations between parents and teenagers. Throughout the discussion, Hemphill emphasizes his commitment to keeping politics and religion out of his work, focusing instead on "common sense" lessons that can be applied universally. His mission is beautifully simple yet profound: "to help our kids believe in themselves and their country." Whether you're a parent seeking inspiration for your teenager, a history enthusiast, or an aspiring author, this episode offers practical wisdom and a refreshing perspective on making history relevant in today's world. Have a comment? Text me! Support the show **************************************************************************** ➡️ P.S.: 📬 If you love the conversations on this podcast, you’ll love my Substack newsletter. I share personal stories, publishing advice, and tools to help you grow as a writer. Subscribe for free or become a paid supporter to access it all.…

Read and Write with Natasha

1
Writing Evil: Inside the Mind of a Thriller Author 39:12

23 days ago39:12

39:12

What makes a truly unforgettable literary villain? According to bestselling thriller author Gary Braver , it's not mustache-twirling evil, but rather those "sweet smelling reasons" that justify their actions in their minds. Drawing from over four decades of teaching creative writing and penning critically acclaimed mysteries, Braver takes us behind the curtain of compelling thriller construction. Braver's latest novel, " Rumor of Evil," follows two Cambridge homicide detectives investigating a suspicious death that connects to the cold case of a Romani exchange student who perished in a treehouse fire. Inspired by the infamous Slenderman case, the story explores how destructive rumors, prejudice, and superstition can have deadly consequences—themes that resonate powerfully in today's climate of misinformation. For writers seeking to master the mystery genre, Braver offers an architectural approach: study successful novels like a carpenter examines a house. Notice how authors craft cliffhanger chapter endings that keep readers awake at night, balance action scenes with reflective moments, and create dialogue that distinguishes characters without attribution tags. This technical dissection of craft transforms passive reading into active learning. Whether you're a fiction writer seeking to strengthen your villains, a mystery lover curious about the mechanics behind your favorite thrillers, or fascinated by how stories are crafted, this episode delivers invaluable insights from a master of the genre. How will you apply Braver's architectural approach to your next reading or writing experience? Have a comment? Text me! Support the show **************************************************************************** ➡️ P.S.: 📬 If you love the conversations on this podcast, you’ll love my Substack newsletter. I share personal stories, publishing advice, and tools to help you grow as a writer. Subscribe for free or become a paid supporter to access it all.…

Read and Write with Natasha

1
The Resilient Heart: A Cardiologist's Journey into Writing Thrillers 45:21

5 weeks ago45:21

45:21

What does it take to reinvent your life in your 40s, face down hundreds of rejections, and still come out on top? In this episode, I speak with Dr. Christina LePort , a former cardiologist turned medical thriller author, about her remarkable journey from the operating room to the written word. Born in Bologna, Italy, Christina once dreaded writing assignments. But everything changed in her mid-40s as she waited to start cardiology training. That’s when she discovered the magic of fiction. “I realized that if you’re an author, you create the world, you invent the characters you want to meet,” she says. Her debut novel, Change of Heart , is a medical thriller that dives into the dark ethics of heart transplantation. In it, a string of suicides in New York City turns out to be something far more sinister. Victims are dying in ways that preserve their hearts, making them perfect for organ harvesting. Enter detective Jack Mulville and FBI cyber expert Charlotte Bloom, who must untangle a web of medical conspiracy and murder. In our conversation, Christina shares the surprising overlap between medicine and storytelling, from reading people under pressure to navigating life-or-death stakes. She also opens up about the emotional toll of rejection and her hard-won publishing journey. “The therapy for rejection is writing more,” she says, after enduring three years of no's before landing a deal with Bancroft Press. For aspiring authors, Christina offers a candid look behind the scenes: why you need a professional editor ( “not your friend—someone who will tear it apart” ), how to build your platform, and why writing should always come from joy, not just the pursuit of validation. If you’re ready for a high-stakes story rooted in real medical expertise, or you just need inspiration to keep going after rejection, don’t miss this episode. 📚 Grab your copy of Have a comment? Text me! Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched! Start for FREE Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show **************************************************************************** ➡️ P.S.: 📬 If you love the conversations on this podcast, you’ll love my Substack newsletter. I share personal stories, publishing advice, and tools to help you grow as a writer. Subscribe for free or become a paid supporter to access it all.…

Read and Write with Natasha

1
The Happiness Rewrite: One Writer’s Mission to Make the World Smile 37:22

7 weeks ago37:22

37:22

What if it didn’t take a life-altering tragedy to change your life for the better? In this uplifting episode, I sit down with Scott White , also known as the “ Life is Too Short Guy, ” who’s on a mission to make the world a happier place—one smile at a time. Scott breaks down the ten simple but powerful principles from his Amazon #1 bestselling book. These aren't vague motivational quotes—they're real, actionable tools you can use right now to shift your mindset and improve your life. From “Attitude is Everything” to “Live Today, Don’t Wait for Tomorrow,” Scott’s message is rooted in science and real stories—people who found light after illness, grief, or even suicide attempts. But his goal? To help you have that “aha” moment without needing to hit rock bottom first. We talk about: Why positivity can literally extend your life (yes, there’s data!) How a simple smile can change your brain chemistry What it means to live with urgency—but not fear The underrated power of random acts of kindness This episode is packed with heart, science, and straightforward takeaways you can start practicing today. Learn more about Scott and grab his book at lifeistooshortguy.com. Have a comment? Text me! Support the show **************************************************************************** ➡️ P.S.: 📬 If you love the conversations on this podcast, you’ll love my Substack newsletter. I share personal stories, publishing advice, and tools to help you grow as a writer. Subscribe for free or become a paid supporter to access it all.…

Read and Write with Natasha

1
Torn Pages: A Mother’s Story of Her Children's Abduction To Saudi Arabia 1:01:07

9 weeks ago1:01:07

1:01:07

When Patricia Bonis lost her children to international abduction, she was thrust into every parent’s worst nightmare—fourteen years of silence. In her memoir Jeddah Bride , Patricia recounts the unimaginable journey from Florida courtrooms to the heart of Saudi Arabia, where a judge’s decision to allow unsupervised visitation led to more than a decade of separation. With raw honesty and emotional clarity, Patricia exposes the human toll of international custody battles. Her story reveals the alarming gaps in protection for children and parents caught between conflicting legal systems. "Within one hour of his unsupervised visitation, they were on a plane to Saudi Arabia—and I didn’t see my children for fourteen years," she says, still stunned by how swiftly her world changed. Now a passionate advocate through the organization Find My Parent, Patricia channels her pain into purpose, offering hope and support to others navigating similar tragedies. Her story is a powerful reminder of how quickly ordinary lives can be upended—and how resilience can restore what once seemed irretrievably lost. Have a comment? Text me! Support the show **************************************************************************** ➡️ P.S.: 📬 If you love the conversations on this podcast, you’ll love my Substack newsletter. I share personal stories, publishing advice, and tools to help you grow as a writer. Subscribe for free or become a paid supporter to access it all.…

Read and Write with Natasha

1
The No-Show Book Reading That Went Viral 38:29

12 weeks ago38:29

38:29

When Karen De Bonis arrived at her library book reading to find zero attendees, she didn't crumble—she took a photo. That single photo of empty chairs would go viral on Twitter , reaching over a million views and revealing something profound about vulnerability in our success-obsessed world. Behind this viral moment lies a much deeper story. De Bonis spent seven years crafting her memoir "Growth: A Mother, Her Son, and the Brain Tumor They Survived," which chronicles not just her son's medical journey but her own battle with people-pleasing behaviors that delayed crucial medical intervention. As she explains, "It's really not a story about the brain tumor as much as it's a story about my shattered expectations of motherhood." The conversation explores the fascinating collision between medical gaslighting and people-pleasing tendencies that left her son undiagnosed for three years. With remarkable candor, De Bonis reveals her publishing journey—from writing in fits and starts over many years to querying 85 agents without success before finding a home with a university press. Her honest assessment of book marketing realities (that viral million-view post translated to exactly 44 book sales) provides crucial perspective for aspiring authors. Perhaps most compelling is De Bonis' DIY approach to audiobook creation, complete with a closet recording studio lined with egg crate foam and free Audacity software. For writers and readers alike, this conversation offers a masterclass in persistence, authenticity, and the courage to share our imperfect experiences. Have a comment? Text me! Support the show **************************************************************************** ➡️ P.S.: 📬 If you love the conversations on this podcast, you’ll love my Substack newsletter. I share personal stories, publishing advice, and tools to help you grow as a writer. Subscribe for free or become a paid supporter to access it all.…

Read and Write with Natasha

1
The Old-School Secret to Selling Books With Jean Alfieri 38:15

13 weeks ago38:15

38:15

What if the secret to publishing success isn't TikTok or Instagram but good old-fashioned hustle and real-world connections? In this episode, I chat with Jean Alfieri , author of the beloved Zuggy the Rescue Pug series and an advocate for shelter pets everywhere. Jean’s journey into authorship began with one determined rescue pug and has blossomed into an impressive 11-book series (and counting!). Jean's practical approach is a breath of fresh air, flipping conventional wisdom on its head. While many authors chase algorithms and digital ads, Jean packs auditoriums at school visits, often selling hundreds of books at once. "Beer-drinking dog lovers are my people," she jokes, proving that knowing your audience—and meeting them face-to-face—can beat digital marketing every time. Beyond book sales, Jean shares how her side hustle as a positivity coach helps fuel her creative career, offering listeners a realistic path toward sustainable, full-time creative work. Her secret weapon? A clear intention pinned to her fridge: "100,000 books sold, 100,000 pet parents inspired." She reminds us all of the power of intentionality and the magic that happens when you leave space for your dreams. Come hang out with us for this uplifting chat, where Jean Alfieri shares her down-to-earth tips for making the leap into full-time creative work, the surprising magic of connecting with readers in person, and why good old-fashioned hustle still beats algorithms every time. Have a comment? Text me! Support the show **************************************************************************** ➡️ P.S.: 📬 If you love the conversations on this podcast, you’ll love my Substack newsletter. I share personal stories, publishing advice, and tools to help you grow as a writer. Subscribe for free or become a paid supporter to access it all.…

Read and Write with Natasha

1
The Power of Community for Writers with Hussein Al-Baiaty 31:16

14 weeks ago31:16

31:16

In this episode, I sit down with the marketing strategist and author of The Art of Resilience: The Refugee State of Mind — Hussein Al-Baiaty, to explore the power of writing communities and the evolving world of indie publishing . We discuss how building connections, honing communication, and embracing community can shape an author’s journey—whether you're considering traditional publishing, self-publishing, or growing your presence as a writer . What We Cover in This Episode: The impact of writing communities and why they matter The shift from traditional publishing to self-publishing and what it means for authors today Understanding your deeper purpose as a writer beyond just publishing a book How platforms like LinkedIn and YouTube can help authors build visibility The role of community engagement in opening doors and creating opportunities Effective marketing strategies for indie authors looking to stand out If you found this episode valuable, please take a moment to leave a review, subscribe, and share it with fellow book lovers and aspiring authors. Your support helps more writers discover these conversations. Have a comment? Text me! Support the show **************************************************************************** ➡️ P.S.: 📬 If you love the conversations on this podcast, you’ll love my Substack newsletter. I share personal stories, publishing advice, and tools to help you grow as a writer. Subscribe for free or become a paid supporter to access it all.…

Read and Write with Natasha

1
Executive Coach Antonia Bowring on Writing and Overcoming ADHD 35:39

15 weeks ago35:39

35:39

Renowned executive coach Antonia Bowrin g joins us to reveal how coaching has evolved in the digital age, especially amidst the challenges brought on by COVID-19. This shift has increased the acceptance and accessibility of coaching across regions like Africa and the Middle East. Through her book " Coach Yourself: Increase Awareness, Change Behavior, and Thrive," Antonia empowers listeners to harness their own potential with the right mindset and resilience. We address skepticism in the coaching industry, underscoring the importance of certifications like those from the International Coaching Federation to maintain quality standards. Our conversation takes a turn as we explore the intricacies of ADHD, particularly in adults. Antonia shares her experiences of managing ADHD while writing her book and actively discussing the condition on platforms like TikTok. Antonia also reflected on her journey and weighed the pros and cons of traditional versus self-publishing. Her candid insights are vital for aspiring authors and those navigating the challenges of ADHD. Have a comment? Text me! Support the show **************************************************************************** ➡️ P.S.: 📬 If you love the conversations on this podcast, you’ll love my Substack newsletter. I share personal stories, publishing advice, and tools to help you grow as a writer. Subscribe for free or become a paid supporter to access it all.…

Read and Write with Natasha

1
From Journal to a Book to a Healing Journey 35:05

16 weeks ago35:05

35:05

What if the items gathering dust in your attic held the keys to unlocking your deepest healing? In this heartfelt conversation, I sit down with Ann Mracek, author of Unpacking the Attic: A Path to Healing Your Inner Child , to explore the transformative power of confronting childhood memories through seemingly mundane objects. Anne shares her personal journey of healing old wounds, where items like her grandfather's pipe became touchstones for reframing her past and releasing feelings of unworthiness. Through journaling, self-reflection, and forgiveness, Anne turned her own healing process into a powerful book—one that encourages readers to confront buried trauma and rewrite their personal narratives. We also explore: 🔹 The impact of childhood memories on adult self-perception 🔹 The significance of forgiveness in releasing past pain 🔹 Journaling as a tool for emotional healing and self-discovery 🔹 The art of manifestation and aligning heart and mind for future goals Beyond her book, Anne takes us behind the scenes of her entrepreneurial journey and the birth of Amarantic Publishing , where creative control and passion converge. She shares her approach to marketing through networking, public speaking, and community-building , offering insights for aspiring authors. We also get a sneak peek into her exciting future projects , including a novel where love transcends time. 🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation on self-discovery, personal transformation, and the power of storytelling. Have a comment? Text me! Support the show **************************************************************************** ➡️ P.S.: 📬 If you love the conversations on this podcast, you’ll love my Substack newsletter. I share personal stories, publishing advice, and tools to help you grow as a writer. Subscribe for free or become a paid supporter to access it all.…

Read and Write with Natasha

1
Mastering Solopreneurship With Ayodeji Awosika 48:52

17 weeks ago48:52

48:52

In this episode, we focus on actionable strategies for aspiring writers and solopreneurs to thrive in the creator economy. Author and solopreneur Ayodeji Awosika shares his insights on leveraging personal strengths, mastering marketing skills, and the significance of building an audience to achieve financial independence. We discussed the following: • Importance of aligning work with natural strengths • The myth of the starving artist and the necessity of marketing • Building a robust email list for direct audience engagement • Discussing the realities of the creator economy and persistence • Aiming for manageable financial goals like 20K a month • Daily habits and practices that support long-term success If today's episode inspired you in any way, please take the time to review the podcast. Remember to subscribe and share this podcast with fellow book lovers. Until next time, happy reading, and happy writing. Have a comment? Text me! Support the show **************************************************************************** ➡️ P.S.: 📬 If you love the conversations on this podcast, you’ll love my Substack newsletter. I share personal stories, publishing advice, and tools to help you grow as a writer. Subscribe for free or become a paid supporter to access it all.…

Read and Write with Natasha

1
Three widows, one book: Facing life’s big changes 46:00

18 weeks ago46:00

46:00

In this episode, three authors come together to share their journeys through widowhood, highlighting the strength found in friendship and community. Karen Smith Racicot, Karen Justice, and Rebecca LaChance discuss their collaborative writing process in their book Widows Among Us, and the essential lessons learned about preparing for an unforeseen loss. Among the topics we discussed: • How unique bonding experiences led to a friendship • Writing a book from shared stories and experiences • Practical advice for navigating widowhood • The Publishing journey and strategies for outreach If this episode inspired you in any way , please take the time to review the podcast. Remember to subscribe and share this podcast with fellow book lovers. Until next time, happy reading, happy writing. Have a comment? Text me! Support the show **************************************************************************** ➡️ P.S.: 📬 If you love the conversations on this podcast, you’ll love my Substack newsletter. I share personal stories, publishing advice, and tools to help you grow as a writer. Subscribe for free or become a paid supporter to access it all.…

Read and Write with Natasha

1
Dr. Daisy Khan wants to narrate untold stories of Muslim women 54:37

18 weeks ago54:37