Kim Steadman is a published author of 14 books and an Author Audience Academy member. She is our featured author this week for the Author Spotlight.
As I like to say, congratulations, Kim, on giving birth to your “book babies.”
Share the title(s) of your published book(s)?
- The Creative Prayer Journal: A 21-Day Prayer Challenge to Experiencing
- Meaningful Conversations With God
- The Diary of a Recycled Dog
- 100 Funny Mostly Dog Jokes for Kids
- The Creative Keepsake Holiday Journal: : Autumn and Thanksgiving (Book 1)
- The Creative Keepsake Holiday Journal: Christmas Traditions, Book 2
- The Creative Keepsake Holiday Journal:: Christmas Reflections, Book 3
- Empty Nest Journal: 30 Points and Prompts to Navigate the Uncharted Waters
Did you always dream of being a published author or is this something new for you?
Most definitely! Even when I wasn’t actively pursuing writing the dream was deep in my heart! When I was a little girl I used to play library with my dolls. I would tape my name over the different author’s names on my little books. So, yes, it’s something I’ve always dreamed of.
Before joining Author Audience Academy, what was your biggest obstacle?
My biggest obstacle before AAA was understanding the self-published option. It looked extremely hard to do and I was easily lost in multiple websites, YouTube videos and piles of sticky notes. I think the biggest obstacle was too many sources of information and finding clarity on whose path to follow.
What prompted you to become a part of Author Audience Academy? Specifically, what were you looking for?
I became a part of AAA after watching Shelley’s authenticity on her videos. I could tell she was a real person, who had a real goal, learned the real lessons she needed to reach that goal, and now wanted to share that information with others. I know they say the quickest path to success is to walk in the steps of someone who’s reached it. Shelley’s numbers spoke for themselves.
So, I joined one of her free challenges. Once I saw how she presented all the lessons, I knew this academy was exactly what I needed. And, as a Faith-walker, I sure like the idea that Shelley covers aspects of her business and coaching in prayer!
What has been your biggest “Aha Moment” for you while in the program?
Wow. My biggest ‘aha’ came when it was time for me publish my first book. Well, technically it was my second book, but the first one had a problem with lost files and a computer crash. Now, mind you, I’m the type of person who likes to get into trainings and then I’ll go all over the place to see what they have. Before long, I’ll spend a whole week exploring and know my way around. But, I won’t have watched all the lessons and so I won’t have ‘finished’.
Well, the files were lost and I had to start something new. It was the start of a 90-day session (which you’ll learn in AAA if you join) and I decided to start from scratch and FOLLOW the 90-day plan and road map Shelley had created. Step by step, according to her timeline she had for us. And you know what happened? I went from outline, to draft, to a published book in 90-days! Talk about a great AHA moment! The ‘system’ works if you follow the plan! Wow! That’s a novel idea!
What would you say to encourage other writers who are currently in Author Audience Academy along their journey? To writers considering becoming members?
To those of you considering joining – just do it! You can start at a monthly level and believe me, you’ll get FAR MORE than what you expect for your money. I’ve seen academy’s that offer much less than AAA and cost double and triple the fee. You can’t go wrong!
What’s next for you in regards to writing, publishing and marketing your books? What are you dreaming of and moving toward in this upcoming season?
I have several different journals I’ll be publishing this year. I also have a children’s book (or two) in the works. I’m also starting an outline for another book.
Find out more about Kim Steadman and her books here: www.KimSteadman.com
Join Kim and hundreds of other Christian authors inside Author Audience Academy here: http://authoraudienceacademy.com
Excellent interview! I second what Kim said about how hard it was to learn about self-publishing options because of so many sources of information and finding clarity on whose path to follow. Shelley’s podcasts and emails are what drew me into AAA. She knows her stuff and is so helpful and a great example to follow. Love her and AAA!
It definitely can be confusing with so many voices out there. And thank you so much, Sherry!