Authors After Action: Real Life Stories Behind the Books

Donald Dunn
  • 5.0 (4)
  • 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.

  1. From Crisis Communications to Award-Winning Thriller: John David on Writing The Bystander - Creators at Work: The Stories Behind What We Make

    MAR 4 · BONUS

    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.combookshop.orgbarnesandnoble.comamazon.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Authors After ActionTooley Tuli PublishingBarnes and NobleAmazonbookshop.org

    52 min

  2. MAR 3

    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 Companies mentioned in this episode: BookBabyDraft2Digital

    34 min
  3. How to Get Out of Your Comfort Zone and Become a Better Leader | Leadership Lessons from Skydiving - Spirits and Stories With Donald Dunn

    FEB 26 · BONUS

    How to Get Out of Your Comfort Zone and Become a Better Leader | Leadership Lessons from Skydiving - Spirits and Stories With Donald Dunn

    What does skydiving have to do with leadership? In this powerful episode of Spirits and Stories, Donald Dunn sits down with leadership coach and engineering executive Joe to explore how stepping outside your comfort zone transforms the way you lead, think, and grow. With over 650 skydives and years of experience building high-performance teams in mission-critical environments, Joe shares practical leadership lessons on: How to overcome fear and take calculated risksWhy growth mindset beats achievement mindsetHow to reduce risk without becoming paralyzedThe importance of defining your “why” in leadershipHow young leaders today are reshaping the futureWhy awareness and perspective matter more than ever Whether you're a business owner, executive, veteran transitioning to civilian life, or someone feeling stuck in your professional growth, this episode offers actionable insights you can apply immediately. Leadership isn’t about titles. It’s about courage, clarity, and consistency. If you’re ready to level up your leadership skills, navigate uncertainty with confidence, and push beyond self-imposed limits, this conversation is for you. If you like podcasts that help improve peoples lives and filled with story telling, Check out https://barracksmedia.com/network Links referenced in this episode: wyserwithjoe.comlinkedin.com/in/wyserwithjoeinstagram.com/wyserwithjoehttps://barracksmedia.comhttps://barracksmedia.com/network

    52 min

  4. FEB 26

    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: AmazonFiverr Links referenced in this episode: JFMonroeBookshelf.com

    36 min

  5. FEB 25

    How Does Self-Publishing Really Work? The Truth About Hybrid Publishers, Royalties, and Book Marketing

    Thinking about self-publishing a book but not sure where to start?In this episode, Donald Dunn speaks with Michelle DeFilippo, founder of 1106 Design, about what self-publishing really means today — and how authors can avoid expensive publishing traps. They break down: The difference between self-publishing, traditional publishing, and hybrid publishersHow some publishing companies charge authors thousands while still taking royaltiesWhat professional book editing and cover design actually costWhy authors must hire experts instead of doing everything themselvesHow Amazon royalties really work (and what percentage you actually keep)Why most authors never recoup their investmentHow speakers and consultants can use books to build authority and generate incomeThe truth about becoming an Amazon bestsellerCommon mistakes new authors make If you are a veteran, entrepreneur, speaker, or aspiring author, this episode will help you understand the real costs, risks, and opportunities in modern publishing. Before you invest thousands into editing, design, or a hybrid publishing package, listen to this conversation. Links referenced in this episode:1106design.combarracksmedia.com Companies mentioned in this episode:1106 DesignAmazonIngramSpark

    33 min

  6. FEB 24

    How Do You Write a Book That Still Sells 20 Years Later? | Marita Tedder

    If you want to write a book that stands the test of time, what separates a short-term release from a decades-long bestseller? In this episode of Authors After Action, host Donald Dunn sits down with bestselling author Marita Tedder, also known to many readers as Marita Littauer, whose landmark personality book Wired That Way has remained in continuous publication for more than twenty years. Drawing from a career that spans writing, speaking, training communicators, and leading conferences, Marita shares what truly makes a book worthwhile, how authors build lasting audiences, and why clarity of message is the foundation of long-term success. She is widely known as the bestselling author of over twenty books, including Wired That Way, a personality classic that has remained in continuous publication for more than two decades. Marita (1)This conversation goes far beyond writing mechanics. It explores platform building, speaking before publishing, marketing realities, and the discipline required to keep your work relevant in an increasingly crowded publishing world. Topics Covered:The first question every aspiring author must answerHow to know if your message is strong enoughWhy many self-published books struggleBuilding an audience before you publishUsing speaking to refine your materialMarketing strategies that extend a book’s lifespanAuthentic writing in the age of AI Whether you are an aspiring author, entrepreneur, speaker, or creative professional, this episode delivers practical insight from someone who has built a lasting career around words and communication. Subscribe for more conversations with impactful authors sharing the strategies, mindset, and experience behind their success.

    45 min

  7. FEB 19

    “Lower Your Golf Score Fast: The Math Behind Perfect Putting | Bob Labbe”

    If you want to lower your golf score, the answer might not be a new club — it might be simple math. In this episode of Authors After Action, host Donald Dunn sits down with engineer-turned-author Bob Labbe, creator of Putting by the Numbers, to break down a physics-based approach to putting that helps golfers eliminate costly three-putts and improve consistency on the green. Bob explains how understanding distance, friction, and repeatable mechanics can dramatically improve lag putting without changing your swing or buying new equipment. His method is designed for golfers of any skill level and focuses on simple, practical adjustments that lead to immediate results. Whether you are a recreational golfer or a competitive amateur, this conversation explores why putting accounts for such a large portion of your score and how small changes in approach can save multiple strokes per round. Topics Covered in This Episode:Why most golfers struggle with long-distance puttingHow math and physics improve distance controlThe mental side of consistent puttingWhy great putting matters more than powerful drivesTurning decades of research into a practical golf methodThe process of writing and publishing a niche instructional book If improving your putting is your fastest path to better golf scores, this episode provides a smarter, more reliable way to approach the green. Book and Resources:Putting by the Numbers https://puttingbythenumbers.com https://boblabe.com About Authors After ActionAuthors After Action features in-depth conversations with authors, engineers, and subject-matter experts who share the thinking, experience, and discipline behind their work. Subscribe for interviews focused on mastery, execution, and real-world results.

    33 min
  8. Why Accessibility Matters for Podcasters and Creators, And How It Increases Your Reach - Creators at Work: The Stories Behind What We Make

    FEB 19 · BONUS

    Why Accessibility Matters for Podcasters and Creators, And How It Increases Your Reach - Creators at Work: The Stories Behind What We Make

    In this episode of Creators at Work, Donald Dunn sits down with Maxwell Ivey, known worldwide as The Blind Blogger, to discuss why accessibility matters for podcasters and creators — and how improving accessibility can directly grow your audience. Maxwell shares his journey from teaching himself HTML in two thousand seven just to get online, to becoming a respected accessibility expert, speaker, consultant, and advisory board member for PodMatch. Maxwell explains how most creators unintentionally limit their reach by ignoring accessibility standards on their websites, podcasts, and digital platforms. From proper website structure and alt text to audio clarity and inclusive content practices, he breaks down practical steps that can make your content more usable for everyone — not just people with disabilities. This conversation goes beyond compliance. It’s about opportunity. When you make your content accessible, you’re not just doing the right thing — you’re expanding your visibility, strengthening your brand, and positioning yourself as a professional who understands audience growth. If you’re a podcaster, blogger, business owner, or content creator looking to build authority and increase engagement, this episode will challenge you to rethink how accessible your platform truly is — and what you might be missing. Listen now and discover how accessibility isn’t a limitation — it’s a competitive advantage.

    52 min
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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.

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