About Authors After Action: Real Life Stories Behind the Books
Authors After Action is a conversation-driven podcast that explores the stories behind the stories. Each episode features thoughtful discussions with authors about what led them to write, the experiences that shaped their work, and the deeper purpose behind their books.
Rather than focusing on writing techniques or publishing advice, the show centers on lived experience, reflection, and the motivations that turn life into story. These conversations explore meaning, memory, resilience, and the responsibility of telling stories that matter.
Authors After Action is for listeners who care about storytelling, personal history, and the reasons stories are written — not just how they are sold.
From Crisis Communications to Award-Winning Thriller: John David on Writing The Bystander - Creators at Work: The Stories Behind What We Make
What does it take to pivot from crisis communications expert to award-winning thriller novelist?
In this episode of Creators at Work, Donald Dunn sits down with John David, author of the breakout thriller The Bystander, named one of the best thrillers of twenty twenty five. Inspired by real-world headlines and the psychology of fear, John shares how a mall shooting incident sparked the premise for his debut novel — and how he transformed that idea into a commercially successful mystery series.
They dive deep into:
• The real-life event that inspired The Bystander
• Writing fiction after a career in journalism and public relations
• Plotter vs pantser writing styles
• The realities of publishing and working with editors
• Why mystery readers expect structure — and how to deliver it
• Building tension through realism instead of fantasy
• How pop culture, sports, and politics influence storytelling
John also shares insights into his upcoming sequel, The Pawn, and the release of the audiobook edition.
If you're an aspiring author, entrepreneur, or creative professional looking to understand the craft and business of storytelling, this episode delivers practical insights and real-world experience from inside the publishing industry.
🔗 Learn more about John David: https://byjohndavid.com
📚 The Bystander available wherever books are sold.
If you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe, leave a review, and share with another creator.
Links referenced in this episode:
byjohndavid.com (https://byjohndavid.com)
bookshop.org (https://bookshop.org)
barnesandnoble.com (https://barnesandnoble.com)
amazon.com (https://amazon.com)
Companies mentioned in this episode:
Authors After Action
Tooley Tuli Publishing
Barnes and Noble
Amazon
bookshop.org
3 Mar 2026
What Does Healing From Sexual Assault Really Look Like? One Woman’s 10-Year Story
How do you truly heal after sexual assault?
In this powerful episode of Authors After Action, Amy McKiernan shares her deeply personal journey of surviving sexual assault and the ten-year process it took to write her healing-centered book. This conversation explores trauma, PTSD, reclaiming your voice, and the courage it takes to share a vulnerable story publicly.
Amy discusses what healing actually looks like, why recovery isn’t linear, the importance of support systems, and how writing became part of her transformation. The episode also dives into the realities of self-publishing, navigating difficult memories, and why telling your story can help others feel less alone.
If you or someone you love is navigating trauma, this episode offers hope, perspective, and practical insight into the healing process.
Links referenced in this episode:
amymckiernan.com (https://amymckiernan.com)
Companies mentioned in this episode:
BookBaby
Draft2Digital
26 Feb 2026
Writing Chaos: J.F. Monroe on the Joys and Struggles of Storytelling
Today's podcast dives into the magical realm of storytelling with the incredible J.F. Munroe, the mastermind behind the Legacy of the Four trilogy. We chat about how ancient powers collide with the human heart, and trust me, it's not just epic battles and mythical creatures; it’s about courage, sacrifice, and characters that’ll stick with you long after you turn the last page. J.F.'s journey from maternity leave to author is a wild ride filled with inspiration from fantasy giants like Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter. We’ll also explore the nitty-gritty of the writing process, from the chaos of creating a trilogy to the highs and lows of marketing your book. So grab a comfy seat, maybe a cup of coffee, and let’s uncover the secrets behind crafting stories that resonate!
Companies mentioned in this episode:
Amazon
Fiverr
Links referenced in this episode:
JFMonroeBookshelf.com (https://JFMonroeBookshelf.com)
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