Demystifying Self-Publishing with Tellwell

How Daniel Stolfi Turned Cancer Into Comedy, Healing, and Hope

Most survivors say their journey ends when the cancer is gone—but Daniel Stolfi turned his battle with stage 3 lymphoma into a story of resilience, humor, and hope that’s inspiring thousands. At just 25, facing a grapefruit-sized tumor and two years of grueling treatment, Daniel chose comedy and storytelling to turn trauma into triumph, creating a hit solo show, raising over $100,000 for cancer charities, and now, self-publishing a raw, empowering memoir that captures every insurmountable challenge and unexpected victory. In this episode, Daniel shares what it truly takes to write through trauma and why storytelling (and humor) is essential for survival. You'll discover how he balanced raw honesty with vulnerability, transforming his darkest moments into inspiring lessons that still resonate today. Whether you’re dreaming of writing your own memoir or simply need a reminder of the resilience within us all, this conversation will challenge you to reconsider what it means to survive, tell, and live anew. If you're ready to embrace vulnerability and use storytelling to forge your healing journey, this episode is your blueprint. Daniel’s story is a testament that after cancer and after life's hardest hits, there's always hope.

The Creative Mindset Shift That Changes Everything (with Miriam Schulman)

Get our FREE guide to self-publishing: https://publish.tellwellpublishing.com/self-publish-youtube/ [https://publish.tellwellpublishing.com/self-publish-youtube/] In this episode, Miriam Schulman, artist, author of 'Artpreneur' and host of The Inspiration Place podcast, shares her journey from Wall Street to thriving artist and entrepreneur. Discover how shifting your mindset and dismantling limiting narratives can turn your creative passion into a sustainable business. This episode emphasizes that taking imperfect action, building community, and shifting mindset are fundamental to creative success, whether in visual arts or writing. By embracing vulnerability and sharing your work authentically, you open the door to opportunities and impact.

The Secret to Staying Creative for Life with Nancy Beiman

Get our FREE guide to self-publishing: https://publish.tellwellpublishing.com/self-publish-youtube/ [https://publish.tellwellpublishing.com/self-publish-youtube/] In this episode of Demystifying Self-Publishing, Alyssa sits down with Nancy Beiman, a veteran of the animation industry with over four decades of experience working with studios like Walt Disney Animation Studios and Warner Bros. Animation. Having contributed to iconic films such as 'A Goofy Movie' and 'Hercules,' and worked with legendary characters like Bugs Bunny, Nancy has spent her career bringing stories to life—and teaching others to do the same. But this conversation goes beyond animation. At its core, it explores what it means to be a lifelong creative. Nancy shares how her curiosity and drive didn’t stop at retirement, leading her to create the Fur Babies comic and self-publish her work. She reflects on the differences between collaborative filmmaking and independent creation, the evolution of ideas through daily practice, and why originality comes from personal perspective rather than imitation. The episode also dives into the realities of creative work: embracing mistakes, developing authentic characters, navigating new tools like AI, and sustaining a creative life over decades. Ultimately, this is a conversation about creative identity—why artists create, how they evolve, and what it means to remain creatively restless no matter the medium.

The Science of Storytelling (and How to Finally Finish Your Manuscript) with Suzy Vadori

In this episode, Calgary bestselling author and book coach Suzy Vadori shares her journey from corporate life to helping writers bring their stories to life. She unpacks the science of storytelling, revealing how stories tap into neural pathways and reader psychology to create emotional connection. The conversation also highlights the power of book coaching and community in keeping writers motivated and accountable. Suzy offers practical strategies for finishing your manuscript—even with a busy life—and breaks down the key differences between traditional and self-publishing so you can choose the right path. A must-listen for anyone ready to start—or finally finish—their book.

Use Your Voice and Get Speaking Gigs with Leisa Reid

In this episode, Alyssa sits down with Leisa Reid, founder of GetSpeakingGigsNow and CEO of the International Speaker Network, to explore how authors can turn their books into powerful speaking opportunities. Leisa shares how writers can transform their message from the page to the stage, using their books as a foundation for engaging talks that inspire audiences and expand their reach. Together, they discuss how authors can overcome the common fear of public speaking, build confidence, and develop a talk that clearly communicates the core message of their book. Leisa explains why speaking is one of the most effective ways to connect with readers, grow an audience, and create new opportunities beyond book sales. Listeners will also learn practical strategies for crafting impactful presentations, building a speaking platform, and positioning themselves for speaking engagements. Whether you’re a new or experienced author, this episode offers actionable insights on using public speaking as a powerful extension of your book and your brand.