From Poland to NYC to CA: Behind My American Dream, author Maggie Zurowska

The Author, The Voice, The Mission: Jeffrey Veatch on Turning Tragedy into Impact

In this deeply moving episode, Vinnie sits down with Jeffrey Veatch, author of The Dyer Island Boys, to discuss the true-life inspiration behind his novel set off the coast of Maine. Veatch shares the remarkable story of a real island summer camp that shaped his writing, his journey from documentary filmmaker to novelist, and how collaboration brought his book to life—from cover design to interior layout and audiobook narration. But this conversation goes far deeper than the creative process. Jeffrey opens up about the devastating loss of his son Justin to drug overdose, and how he and his family channeled their grief into powerful action through The Justin Veatch Fund—a nonprofit that has awarded nearly 80 music scholarships and impacted thousands of students across the U.S. through school talks, performances, and a moving documentary, Whispering Spirits. You’ll hear about: * The real island that inspired The Dyer Island Boys * Designing a book with heart: buoys, compasses, and custom graphics * Creating the first Volossal audiobook—narrated by Jeffrey himself * The story of Justin Veatch: music, loss, and legacy * How one family turned tragedy into a mission of service, awareness, and hope * The power of showing up: school talks, book readings, and meeting readers face to face Whether you're a reader, a parent, an educator, or someone who believes in the power of turning pain into purpose, this is a conversation you won’t forget. The Dyer Island Boys is available in print, ebook, and audio formats. Learn more about The Justin Veatch Fund and listen to Peregrine: The Music of Justin Veatch & Friends at: thejustinveatchfund.org [https://www.thejustinveatchfund.org]

When Is a Book Finished? Kyle S. Colgan on Craft, Grief, and Revision

In this episode of Ready to Be Published, Volossal Publishing founder Vinnie Corbo sits down with author Kyle S. Colgan to explore the making of his debut novel, Death by Culture Shock. Blending autobiographical fiction, grief, love, and cultural identity, Colgan shares how his background in filmmaking led him to prose—and why this deeply personal novel took five years to write. The conversation dives into writing through grief, navigating interracial marriage and cultural blending, and the emotional complexity of showing up for someone you love during loss. Colgan discusses how his wife’s Pakistani and Muslim background influenced both his life and his storytelling, and how shared trauma, family dynamics, and cultural differences shape relationships in powerful, universal ways. Kyle also opens up about his creative process, the discipline of revision, learning when to “kill your darlings,” and knowing when a book is truly finished. The episode explores the importance of collaboration, feedback, pacing, and craft—and why taking your time matters in a world obsessed with speed and output. Whether you’re an aspiring author, a literary fiction reader, or interested in stories about grief, identity, interracial relationships, and emotional honesty, this episode offers a rare, behind‑the‑scenes look at how meaningful novels are built—line by line, draft by draft.

Dialogue, Detail, and Doing It Right – Inside the Writing Process with Catherine Gigante-Brown

Immigrant Hearts and Literary Legacy: A Conversation with Catherine Gigante-Brown In this heartfelt episode of the Ready to Be Published Podcast, host Vinnie Corbo of Volossal Publishing sits down with acclaimed author Catherine Gigante-Brown to explore the inspiration, structure, and impact of her latest novel, Immigrant Hearts. Rooted in her own family’s Italian American immigrant history, Immigrant Hearts weaves a multigenerational tale of love, resilience, and community during pre-WWII America. Catherine opens up about how this novel, based on her maternal grandparents’ lives, came together—complete with vintage photos, restored archival images, and a compelling cast of characters inspired by real people. Together, Vinnie and Catherine discuss: * How anti-immigrant sentiment past and present shaped the story * Why Immigrant Hearts might be her most successful book yet * Her evolving writing style and unique chapter structures * The importance of authentic dialogue and character development * Easter eggs, reader feedback, and honoring family legacies through fiction * How she built a grassroots promotional network through local bookstores, podcasts, museums, and virtual readings * Her entire body of work, from Different Drummer to Cry of Silence, Paul & Carol Go to Guatemala, and more Whether you’re an aspiring author, a lover of immigrant stories, or a fan of contemporary historical fiction, this conversation offers rich insights into the writing life, publishing process, and the timeless importance of telling personal stories that resonate universally.

From Poland to NYC to CA: Behind My American Dream, author Maggie Zurowska

Author Maggie Zurowska (pronounced Zhoo-RAHV-ska) sits down with Vinnie Corbo from Volossal Publishing to share her journey from a free-range childhood in Poland’s mountains to the culture shock of New York City—and how that led to two candid books, Sex and Yoga and Behind My American Dream. We talk about adventure vs. expectations, leaving a small town where everyone knows your family, working for the ultra-wealthy in the Hamptons, finding balance in yoga and spirituality, discovering veganism (ahimsa), and why honest memoirs matter—even if they’re not written to please everyone. In this conversation: * Growing up in Poland & why she left * Identity beyond family reputation * NYC culture shock & class divides * What Sex and Yoga is (and isn’t) * Spiritual awakening & nature/animal connection * Becoming vegan and teaching plant-based cooking * How personal stories help readers find their own path Books by Maggie: Behind My American Dream – memoir of immigration, reinvention, and compassion Sex and Yoga – creativity vs. discipline, and finding balance through practice About the guest: Maggie is an author, chef/instructor, and vegan advocate based in California. She teaches hands-on classes (gnocchi, fresh pasta, tacos, more) that surprise non-vegans and inspire curious cooks. About the host: This interview is part of Volossal Publishing’s author series with Vinnie—spotlighting bold, personal stories that spark conversation.

From the Courtroom to the Page: Chuck Redmen on Dialogue, Writing, and Animal Rights

In this episode of Ready to Be Published, host Vinnie Corbo sits down with Chuck Redmen, author of the sharp, satirical novel Low Worm Diet. Together, they explore Chuck’s unique literary voice, the power of authentic dialogue, and the challenge (and joy) of writing for a thoughtful, discerning audience. Chuck shares how his background in law and his passion for animal rights shaped his storytelling—and how his transition into acting helped refine his approach to dialogue. Vinnie and Chuck also dive into Chuck’s creative process, his earlier novel A Cottonwood Stand, and why Low Worm Diet is unlike anything you've read before. This book isn’t just smart—it’s funny, biting, and refreshingly original. All royalties go to All For Love Animal Rescue, making this a feel-good listen in more ways than one. A must-hear for: * Writers looking to develop believable, witty dialogue * Fans of literary satire and smart humor * Readers who love books that challenge, entertain, and inspire * Supporters of animal rescue causes Connect with Volossal Publishing and discover more stories worth telling.