REPURPOSED

About REPURPOSED

REPURPOSED is the pod about redefining, reclaiming, and rediscovering joy. Join Steven Salvatore, critically acclaimed author of AND THEY LIVED… , who, after a decade and a half of struggling to break into the traditional publishing and another decade struggling to break out and stay relevant, grow his audience, and become a full-time author, as he journey's to find new purpose in the face of the face of creative stagnation and burnout, professional identity crises, and personal struggles all while hopefully uncovering out what it looks like to take power back: Let’s get repurposeful!

Publisher

Steven Salvatore

Category

arts

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

9 Sept 2025

Latest episode

11 Nov 2025

Latest episodes

10 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   11 Nov 2025

   "Imposter Syndrome is REAL": A Repurposeful Update!

   In honor of the upcoming Turkey Holiday, it's time to give thanks to REPURPOSED listeners with an update! Is a new book on the horizon? Possibly! Has Stella gotten her groove back? Remains to be seen. But one thing is for sure...the struggle is real, and so is imposter syndrome. Steven reflects on the internal expectations that accompany authorship, the struggle with self-worth when facing a lack of audience engagement, and the emotional challenges of transitioning from WRITER to AUTHOR. Steven's insights reveal the complexities of validation and the pressures that come with sharing one's artistry with the world. Thanks to Jess Regel, my agent, Alex Alberti, and my favorite squirrel friend Nicolas DiDomizio for some of my favorite clips that round out today's lil morsel of an update epi! Don't call it a clips episode! We're just getting started, so make sure to keep listening to REPURPOSED wherever you get your podcasts! For holiday shopping purposes: Buy your copy of THE BOYFRIEND SUBSCRIPTION now (https://tr.ee/OFy4BTda51)! Buy your copy of WHEN LOVE GIVES YOU LEMONS now! (https://bookshop.org/p/books/when-love-gives-you-lemons-steven-salvatore/b9c52a25c7a75d70?ean=9781547615278&next=t) Buy your copy of AND THEY LIVED... now! (https://bookshop.org/p/books/when-love-gives-you-lemons-steven-salvatore/b9c52a25c7a75d70?ean=9781547615278&next=t) Follow Steven Salvatore on Instagram (https://instagram.com/stevensalvatorebooks)and TikTok! (https://tiktok.com/@stevensalvatorebooks)

2. 

   4 Nov 2025

   "Emperor vs. Gladiator!" Nerding Out with Author NMJ Coveney

   NERD ALERT! From Kingdom Hearts to Final Fantasy to his book pitch (Stranger Things and Sex Education meets Buffy the Vampire Slayer!) to Spyro the Dragon, and a sly Smaug reference, Steven Salvatore and NMJ (Nick) Coveney discuss the intersection of gaming and books, particularly with his debut novel, "Everything Not Saved." He discusses the significant influence of video games on his storytelling, the importance of LGBTQ+ representation in literature, and the challenges he faced in traditional publishing. This is also a wonderful tutorial on self-publishing and Nick explains his decision to use Kickstarter for publication, allowing him to maintain creative control and authenticity in his work. He also reflects on the emotional toll of the writing process and his aspirations to support other marginalized authors through his new publishing press. Follow Nick at @NMJCoveney (https://www.instagram.com/nmjcoveney/?hl=en) on socials! Get your copy of "Everything Not Saved" today at Barned & Noble (https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/everything-not-saved-n-m-j-coveney/1148253881) Get your copy of "Everything Not Saved" today at Gays the Word (UK) (https://www.gaystheword.co.uk/product-page/everything-not-saved-by-n-m-j-coveney) Get your copy of "Everything Not Saved" today on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/Everything-Not-Saved-N-Coveney/dp/1068235802/ref=sr_1_3?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.CdEe74Qp1lvuX5vlY0rQKTDm57zdsypiPAAw8oHbM4wGR2b4v4GhdpMsLY7064hDFDFFEvRTB8Q5MLLpemLuh4B9urS5j8uVhLnlHbMbpQ4PvkLFpSB5nvylyPvqJ175sE_nYxyqXaYqtLC_c6UwWw.2WFvjBIUvBWZpxJ2Xr9YCyJqNOypTIa-gOB5pdxTVfQ&dib_tag=se&qid=1762138785&refinements=p_27%3AJ.+Coveney&s=books&sr=1-3) Check out the website for "Everything Not Saved" (https://everythingnotsaved.com) Check out Fire Hills Press (https://firehillspress.com)! "Crowdfunding Still Works" (https://www.thebookseller.com/comment/crowdfunding-still-works) by Nick Coveney on The Bookseller Check out Nick Coveney's Kickstarter Campaign (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/2038546256/everything-not-saved) for "Everything Not Saved"! Resources: BackerKit (https://www.backerkit.com) Reedsy (https://reedsy.com/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=11799738136&gbraid=0AAAAADjxzWJoJy7mi44h4zsyWgLqqN_kn&gclid=Cj0KCQjwgpzIBhCOARIsABZm7vENWNFp-QRCzlOsvpB-_Kzb2N0EAj-xGtXfA6t96b8nUg6Ra0ClwMUaAgNoEALw_wcB) Jamie Flack, Illustrator (https://bio.site/catandcrown?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaec6wCtnCqp67UQ0pdomCVDDptQfPkip0mQQzMzziuYfFvu6gF20-4zK7Mwew_aem_0TQApkDHHmOAItn0Gzf4ag) for "Everything Not Saved"

3. 

   28 Oct 2025

   "The Bittersweet Gratification of Ted and Alexis" with Life Coach and TikToker Alex Alberti (@albertidevelopment)

   In this episode, Steven Salvatore talks with personal development coach and TikToker Alex Alberti (@albertidevelopment), who specializes in LGBTQ/queer dating, coming out, relationships, and self-actualization. Together, they discuss the challenges of creative burnout, the journey to becoming a life coach, and the importance of authenticity in his content creation. They explore the nuances of relationships, attachment styles, and the emotional complexities of parasocial relationships (and the need for boundaries!), and friendship breakups, ending with a powerful analogy using Schitt's Creek that blew Steven's mind! Alex emphasizes resilience, self-reflection, and the need for community support, while also looking ahead to future aspirations in coaching and personal growth. Follow Alex on TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@albertidevelopment) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/albertidevelopment/?hl=en) @albertidevelopment Book a session with Alex here! (https://www.albertidevelopment.com/#/)

4. 

   21 Oct 2025

   At the Helm with Literary Agent Jess Regel: Querying + Publishing Real Talk!

   In this conversation, Jess Regel, founder of Helm Literary, shares her journey to becoming a literary agent, the challenges and triumphs of the publishing industry, and the importance of networking and relationships in the field. She discusses the querying process, the subjective nature of finding the right fit for authors, and the impact of reader engagement on writers. Jess emphasizes the significance of failure in the creative process and the evolving landscape of publishing, including the rise of self-publishing. Throughout the discussion, she highlights the importance of passion and connection in the literary world. In this conversation, Jess and Steven discuss the multifaceted role of a literary agent, the intricacies of the publishing process, and the importance of persistence in an author's journey. They explore the realities of auctions, advances, and royalties, emphasizing that success in publishing is not solely defined by initial sales figures. Jess shares insights on the value of genre diversity and the significance of writing for yourself, while also reflecting on her personal growth and rediscovery of the cello! Helm Literary: https://helmliterary.com/about (https://helmliterary.com/about) Follow Jess on Instagram: @helmliterary (https://www.instagram.com/helmliterary/) Query Claire Harris at Helm Literary (MSWL) (https://helmliterary.com/submit)

5. 

   14 Oct 2025

   "Petty Spaghetti and Being Way Too Online" with Author Matthew Hubbard

   Who doesn't love being a Petty Spaghetti every so often? In this conversation, Steven Salvatore and Matthew Hubbard explore the complexities of author identity, the impact of growing up LGBTQ+, and the challenges of navigating publishing, especially as it relates to authenticity, the role of social media in shaping perceptions, and the pressure to engage in social media activism as authors. There is so much significance to building supportive relationships within the author community, and this is why we're dabbling in some hard conversations about authors going after authors online and the need for self-care. Drop Dead Handsome (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/222350372-drop-dead-handsome) by Matthew Hubbard(COMING SOON!) Buy The Last Boyfriend's Rules (https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-last-boyfriends-rules-for-revenge-matthew-hubbard/06a4840ef9837418?ean=9780593707203&next=t)for Revenge by Matthew Hubbard Buy The Rebel's Guide to Pride (https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-rebel-s-guide-to-pride-matthew-hubbard/1cedeba1f98b2201?ean=9780593707210&next=t) by Matthew Hubbard Buy Black Voices (https://bookshop.org/p/books/black-voices-various/e8b8b8d76cfd6bcb?ean=9780451527820&next=t&utm_source=google&utm_medium=pmax&utm_campaign=16243454879&utm_content=&utm_term=%7Bsearchterm%7D&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=16235479093&gbraid=0AAAAACfld40NyT5A2Fhsw4MToYPQCNq_v&gclid=CjwKCAjw2vTFBhAuEiwAFaScwpg7BBoYmPYuK_dfeZ1_0QU4coTwzwOOUa-kTdsAdcgTsFpJL0IiyxoCqDwQAvD_BwE) by Abraham Chapman Buy Can't Take That Away (https://bookshop.org/p/books/can-t-take-that-away-steven-salvatore/89e5eb48c59db8f3?ean=9781547608669&next=t&next=t) by Steven Salvatore

6. 

   7 Oct 2025

   "Male-Male Penetration? How Refreshing!" Editor Jess Verdi on MM Romance Discourse and How Publishing Has Changed

   ALERT! MM DISCOURSE ABOUNDS! Please don't cancel us! On today's episode, Steven Salvatore and Jess Verdi, Senior Editor at Alcove Press and Crooked Lane Books, explore the complexities of the publishing industry, touching on personal journeys, the value of an MFA, the importance of representation, and the impact of social media. They discuss the changing dynamics of publishing, the challenges faced by LGBTQ and BIPOC authors, and the economic factors influencing the industry. The conversation emphasizes the need for authentic storytelling and the realities of navigating a career in writing and editing. In this conversation, Steven and Jess Verdi explore the complexities of storytelling, particularly in the context of LGBTQ+ narratives. They discuss the importance of representation, the nuances of writing male-male romance, and the responsibilities authors have in portraying diverse experiences authentically. Jess shares her insights on the dynamics of male-male romance, the scrutiny faced by queer literature, and the evolving landscape of representation in writing. The conversation also touches on personal reflections on activism and the importance of uplifting authentic voices in storytelling. Find Jess's Manuscript Wishlist for Alcove here: https://alcovepress.com/ourteam/ (https://alcovepress.com/ourteam/ ) Check out "The Summer I Wasn't Me" by Jessica Verdi (https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-summer-i-wasn-t-me-jessica-verdi/7cedbfa70b6e99fe?ean=9781402277887&next=t) (my favorite book of hers!) Check out "Follow Your Arrow" by Jessica Verdi (https://bookshop.org/p/books/follow-your-arrow-jessica-verdi/2c443048ccbbd128?ean=9781338640465&next=t&next=t) Check out Jessica Verdi's picture book "I'm Not a Girl" (https://bookshop.org/p/books/i-m-not-a-girl-a-transgender-story-jessica-verdi/9c3046082acc9f86?ean=9780374310684&next=t) co-written with Maddox Lyons and illustrated by Dana Simpson And if you're looking for professional editorial work on your manuscript, check out her website (https://www.jessicaverdi.com/editorial) for rates and information

7. 

   30 Sept 2025

   "The Beauty of the Room" with Author Anthony Nerada

   "Why would you sit facing the wall when you can turn around and see the beauty of the room?" Brava, Anthony Nerada! In this episode, Steven Salvatore interviews author Anthony, who shares his journey from struggling to get published to finding success with his debut novel, SKATER BOY. They discuss the emotional toll of the publishing industry, the misconceptions about being a published author, and the importance of persistence and mentorship in the writing process. Anthony reflects on his experiences with querying, the challenges of navigating identity in literature, the significance of finding the right agent, and the freedom that comes with pivoting in your career and following your heart. Buy SKATER BOY (https://bookshop.org/p/books/skater-boy-a-novel-anthony-nerada/cc914eb6f039efd2?ean=9781641295345&next=t&) by Anthony Nerada Book a session with Writer in Residence (https://www.surreylibraries.ca/books-media/local-authors/writer-residence)Anthony Nerada

8. 

   23 Sept 2025

   "A Kernel of Delusion" with Author Nicolas DiDomizio

   In this episode of Repurposed, Steven Salvatore and Nicolas DiDomizio delve into their intertwined journeys as authors navigating the complexities of the publishing industry. They discuss their early writing experiences, the challenges of querying agents, the emotional toll of rejection, and the realities of marketing and promotion. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of persistence, the need to find joy in writing, and the delicate balance between talent and the unpredictable nature of the publishing world. Ultimately, they highlight the significance of maintaining a kernel of delusion that fuels their creative endeavors and the hope that one day their work will finally "hit" Preorder A Murder Most Camp: A Mystery (https://bookshop.org/p/books/a-murder-most-camp-a-mystery/7b164b25be38ba54?ean=9781464250064&next=t) by Nicolas DiDomizio Nearlywed: Novel (https://bookshop.org/p/books/nearlywed-nicolas-didomizio/20283431?ean=9781728270326&next=t) by Nicolas DiDomizio The Gay Best Friend: A Novel (https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-gay-best-friend-nicolas-didomizio/18740485?ean=9781728270296&next=t) by Nicolas DiDomizio Burn It All Down (https://bookshop.org/p/books/burn-it-all-down-nicolas-didomizio/17203715?ean=9780316496957&next=t) by Nicolas DiDomizio And They Lived... (https://bookshop.org/p/books/and-they-lived/18857819?ean=9781547612123&next=t) by Steven Salvatore

9. 

   16 Sept 2025

   "Magic in Real Life!" with New York Times Bestselling Author Jason June

   In this engaging conversation, Steven Salvatore interviews Jason June, a New York Times bestselling author, screenwriter, and audiobook narrator. They explore Jason's creative journey, from his early aspirations in the arts to his experiences in publishing, including the challenges of navigating the industry, the importance of communication, and the impact of jealousy among authors. Jason shares insights on his books and journey into audiobook narration and acting. The discussion emphasizes the importance of finding joy in creativity and the need for authors to support one another in a competitive landscape. Out of the Blue (https://bookshop.org/p/books/out-of-the-blue-jason-june/18732532?ean=9780063015210&next=t) by Jason June When Love Gives You Lemons (https://www.amazon.com/When-Love-Gives-You-Lemons/dp/B0F6NWZDL1) by Steven Salvatore, narrated by Jason June and Mitch G. Nel Flopping in a Winter Wonderland (https://bookshop.org/p/books/flopping-in-a-winter-wonderland-jason-june/21061341?ean=9780063260085&next=t)by Jason June Jay's Gay Agenda (https://bookshop.org/p/books/jay-s-gay-agenda-jason-june/17354307?ean=9780063015166&next=t) by Jason June Riley Weaver Needs a Date to the Gaybutante Ball (https://bookshop.org/p/books/riley-weaver-needs-a-date-to-the-gaybutante-ball-jason-june/18811863?ean=9780063260030&next=t) by Jason June The Spells We Cast (https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-spells-we-cast-jason-june/19626482?ean=9781368089234&next=t) by Jason June The Magic We Make (https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-magic-you-make-jason-june/21012621?ean=9781368089241&next=t) by Jason June Mermicorn Island (https://bookshop.org/p/books/search-for-the-sparkle-mermicorn-island-1-jason-june/14573867?ean=9781338685183&next=t) by Jason June Jason June's Website (https://heyjasonjune.com) Follow JJ on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/heyjasonjune) at @heyJasonJune

10. 

    9 Sept 2025

    "How Did I Get Here?": A Chaotic Welcome to Repurposed

    What is REPURPOSED? How did I get here? Why is an author trying to become a podcaster? As an introduction to the pod and Steven Salvatore, he takes listeners on a bit of a journey into how he got here, mostly in an effort to define himself. He's spent the last nearly 40 years defining himself as a traditionally published author, but all of that is now up in the air after years of not getting support from the publishing industry. Where does he go from here? This episode is just an introduction to its reason and purpose. Hear some sneak peeks at a few of the conversations being had on REPURPOSED with authors Jason June, Nicolas DiDomizio, Anthony Nerada, and Matthew Hubbard. This is just a little taste of what's to come, so stay tuned, subscribe, comment, and listen weekly because we're pulling back the curtain on what it really looks like to be an author/full-time creative and just how much it can take from you. Let's be repurposeful... Buy Steven Salvatore's Books Here! (https://www.stevensalvatore.com/books) Apologies for the uneven, sometimes choppy audio...there were some issues with the recordings and I did the best I could ><

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Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.