The Nearest Thing to Heaven: Uncovering a WWII Spy's Untold Life

The Nearest Thing to Heaven: Uncovering a WWII Spy's Untold Life

Host Elizabeth Hill talks with authors Nan Temkin Dudley and Katina Le Kerr about their new book, The Nearest Thing to Heaven, a deeply researched historical novel based on the life of a daring World War II spy from Malta. They discuss the writing journey, traveling the world to interview sources, and the book’s evolution from a screenplay into a full-length novel. The heroine, Mary, is "one of the original badasses." Readers are sure to be inspired by her courage and desire to break free from the societal expectations of her time.  In addition to sharing Mary's story, the authors provide insights on collaboration, the importance of editing, and practical advice for writers. Learn how to connect with them and find the book at https://thenearestthingtoheaven.com [https://thenearestthingtoheaven.com]

Turn Your Book Into Paid Speaking Gigs

Jasmine Rice, founder of VoiceQuest Agency, explains how authors can turn their books into paid speaking opportunities by focusing on the problem their book solves and the transformation they deliver. She outlines what event planners buy—clear outcomes, practical takeaways, and a repeatable framework—plus tips on pricing, networking, and using free speaking to gain experience. This episode covers the differences between conference keynotes and corporate/professional-development bookings, how to position your message for organizations, and actionable steps authors can take to move from an author mindset to a paid-speaker mindset. This episode is an excerpt from the Abundant Author® Expert Series run by Elizabeth Hill. To learn more about Jasmine Rice and her agency: https://www.voicequestagency.com/about-us [https://www.voicequestagency.com/about-us] This episode is an excerpt from the Abundant Author® Expert Series: https://www.greenheartliving.com/author-expert-series [https://www.greenheartliving.com/author-expert-series]

Opening to Receive: A Guided Meditation for Abundance and Rest

Elizabeth guides a calming, guided meditation designed to awaken your body, mind, and heart to the practice of receiving. Through gentle breath work, body awareness, and a visualized figure-eight energy loop, this session helps you acknowledge your efforts, invite abundance, and welcome the return of the good you have sown. Rest, reflect, and (when ready) journal your experience so that you may  carry this receptive energy into your day.

Dream Boxes of Hope: How Karen Turned Pain into Purpose

In this episode, Karen Druziako shares the origin story of her nonprofit Be Happy, Dream Big and the Dream Boxes she creates for children and adults to capture hopes, goals, and daily gratitude. She tells how caregiving, severe injuries, and personal perseverance led her to build a mission that spreads hope — delivering boxes to Boys & Girls Clubs, creating a 14-day guided journal, and earning national recognition. Listen for practical steps she uses to help kids and adults clarify dreams, take action toward them, and find joy even through hardship.  Learn more about her mission at https://www.behappydreambig.org [https://www.behappydreambig.com]

An Inspiring Recovery: Neil McCarthy on Writing, Healing, and Hope

Host Elizabeth Hill speaks with Neil McCarthy, author of An Inspiring Recovery, about the year since publishing his memoir and how writing helped him heal and connect with others. They discuss Neil’s disciplined writing routine, the role of music in the creative and healing process, overcoming challenges of mental illness, and the confidence gained from finishing and sharing a major project. The episode highlights community connections, how Neil landed a library event, and practical advice for aspiring authors. To connect with Neil: https://www.thelefthand.art [https://www.thelefthand.art]