This podcast will teach you how to write the book on your heart with how-to tips, examples, and inspiration to get you to be the writer you were meant to be!
258: How To Align Faith, Values, and Writing into One Powerful Message with Larry O'Nan
#258: How To Align Faith, Values, and Writing into One Powerful Message with Larry O'Nan
🎙 Podcast Summary
In this episode of The How to Write a Book Podcast, I sit down with Larry O’Nan, author of Intentional Living and Giving and co-creator of the Andy the Ant children’s series. Larry shares how to write with purpose, combining faith, intentionality, and creativity to inspire readers.
We explore the journey of writing books that matter, from conquering imposter syndrome to aligning personal values with your storytelling. Whether you’re writing children’s books, inspirational nonfiction, or simply want to build confidence as an author, this conversation will give you the tools and encouragement to move forward.
✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode
How to write a book with purpose and impact
Practical tips for overcoming self-doubt as a writer
Why confidence is built through consistency, not perfection
The power of storytelling to connect with readers you may never meet
How faith and creativity can work together in your writing journey
🔗 Guest Links
Larry O’Nan’s Website (https://larryonan.com/) (https://larryonan.com/)
📚 Resources for Writers
How to Write a Book Podcast (https://howtowriteabookpodcast.com/) (https://howtowriteabookpodcast.com/)
Instagram: @massielwrites (https://www.instagram.com/massielwrites)
📩 Contact: massiel@blackheartedstudios.com
🎁 Free eBook: How to Write Your Book
🔑 Keywords
how to write a book, writing with purpose, inspirational writing, children’s book author, Larry O’Nan, intentional living, overcoming imposter syndrome, faith and creativity in writing
2 May 2025
257: How to Balance a Legal Career with a Creative Life with Edith Nazarian
Summary
In this episode, Massiel Valenzuela-Castaneda interviews Edith Nazarian, a solo criminal and immigration lawyer who blends her legal expertise with her passion for creativity. They discuss Edith's journey from aspiring prosecutor to solo practitioner, the unique field of 'crimigration', and how creativity plays a vital role in her legal practice. The conversation explores the balance between structure and freedom in both law and creative writing, the importance of self-expression, and the impact of criticism on personal growth. Edith also shares her future plans, including her new podcast, 'The Client Connection', aimed at bridging the gap between attorneys and clients.
Takeaways
Edith transitioned from wanting to be a prosecutor to running her own practice.
The term 'crimigration' reflects the intersection of criminal and immigration law.
Creativity has always been central to Edith's identity and practice.
Finding balance between structure and freedom is crucial for success.
Legal writing differs significantly from creative writing, requiring clarity and precision.
Edith uses music and performance as outlets for her creativity.
Storytelling can explore complex moral dilemmas and provoke thought.
Criticism in workshops helps build resilience and improve writing skills.
Human connection is essential in both law and creative expression.
Edith's new podcast aims to enhance communication between attorneys and clients.
Alt Titles
Navigating the World of Crimigration
From Law School to Solo Practice: Edith's Journey
Sound Bites
"I really wanted to be a DA."
"I think we are also multifaceted."
"I needed those moments."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Connection
01:51 Journey into Law and Creativity
04:10 The Concept of Crimmigration
06:11 Becoming a Solo Practitioner
08:25 Balancing Freedom and Structure
10:52 The Roots of Creativity
13:02 The Intersection of Law and Creative Writing
19:45 The Power of Storytelling
25:17 Exploring Moral Dilemmas in Storytelling
28:09 The Ripple Effect of Choices
28:40 Writing as a Reflection of Personal Choices
30:52 The Intersection of Creativity and Law
35:26 Balancing Creativity and Legal Pressure
38:00 Creativity in Legal Practice
40:37 The Importance of Human Connection
43:58 Embracing New Creative Ventures
____________________________________________________________________________
Guest Links:
https://enlawoffices.com/
https://www.instagram.com/enlawoffices/
____________________________________________________________________________
Resources
www.howtowriteabookpodcast.com
www.instagram.com/massielwrites
massiel@blackheartedstudios.com
Free eBook:
https://howtowriteabookpodcast.com/how-tos
Keywords
law, creativity, crimigration, storytelling, solo practice, legal writing, podcast, personal growth, balance, self-expression
18 Feb 2025
256: Unlocking Your Voice: The Power of Audiobook Narration with Robert A. Lane
Summary
In this episode, Robert A. Lane discusses his journey as an audiobook coach and producer, emphasizing the importance of authors narrating their own audiobooks. He shares insights on the coaching process, the emotional connection in storytelling, and the unique brand that each author brings to their work. The conversation highlights the challenges authors face in the audiobook creation process and the supportive role of a coach in guiding them through it. In this conversation, Robert Lane discusses the importance of authentic narration in audiobooks, the impact of AI on the author brand, and the journey of writing and publishing a book. He emphasizes the significance of mindset, coaching, and support in the writing process, as well as the importance of hiring a professional team for editing and formatting. Robert shares practical tips for effective audiobook narration and encourages authors to embrace their unique voice and confidence.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Audiobook Coaching
04:34 The Journey to Coaching Authors
10:07 The Importance of Author Narration
12:41 Starting the Audiobook Process
18:30 The Coaching Program Structure
21:31 Surprising Outcomes from Audiobook Narration
23:56 The Power of Authentic Audiobook Narration
24:40 The Human Touch vs. AI in Audiobooks
26:43 The Journey of Writing and Publishing a Book
29:17 Mindset Shifts for Aspiring Authors
33:19 The Importance of Coaching and Support
35:00 Outlining, Drafting, and Editing Process
39:17 Finding the Right Editor for Your Book
41:35 Tips for Effective Audiobook Narration
44:50 Where to Find Robert Lane and Future Plans
Takeaways
Robert A. Lane is an audiobook coach and producer.
He helps nonfiction authors narrate their own audiobooks.
The coaching program includes setting up a recording space and editing.
Authors often hesitate to narrate due to self-doubt about their voice.
Narrating one's own story adds authenticity and connection.
The journey to coaching was influenced by industry changes.
The coaching program is structured into three pillars: setup, narration, and marketing.
Emotional connection is key in audiobook narration.
Authors are surprised by their own storytelling abilities during the process.
The program is flexible to accommodate authors' schedules. Authenticity in narration enhances the audiobook experience.
AI cannot replicate the human touch in storytelling.
Hiring a book coach can significantly improve the writing process.
Authors should embrace their role as entrepreneurs.
Mindset shifts are crucial for overcoming imposter syndrome.
Constructive feedback from peers can help maintain motivation.
A well-organized outline is essential for writing a book.
Choosing the right editor is vital for preserving your voice.
Hydration and a distraction-free environment are key for narration.
Confidence in your voice is part of your author brand.
____________________________________________________________________________
Author Links:
https://www.robertlanecoaching.com/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKl-CMZrL2RvKdkoRIAZs-A
____________________________________________________________________________
Resources
www.howtowriteabookpodcast.com
www.instagram.com/massielwrites
massiel@blackheartedstudios.com
Free eBook: https://bit.ly/h2bebook
____________________________________________________________________________
Like, share, or leave a review on Apple Podcasts and subscribe to our YouTube channel (Blackhearted Studios)
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
4.9 / 5
14 ratings
Spotify
4.7 / 5
10 ratings
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