Episode 22: Sharing Your Story in a Book: Rebecca Undem
Today on the show Jodi interviews Rebecca Undem, author of How Mommy Got Her Groove Back (2016). Here are some highlights:
Jodi and Rebecca discussed how Rebecca came to write a book. Rebecca has always been drawn to storytelling and had writing a book on her “dream list.” She started the book thinking it would be a collection of repurposed blog posts but it became something altogether different. She thought it would be a good tool to have to enhance her speaking career, which is her trade.
Rebecca noted that she had self-doubt about writing a memoir when she was in her mid-30s and had lived a life without a major trauma. However, she trusted the process and found the right audience for it.
Rebecca shared that her favorite part of the writing/publishing process was interviewing living family members to learn their memories and recollections. Rebecca and Jodi talked about how our reality is shaped by our perception.
When asked about her least favorite part of the process, Rebecca likened the writing process to a marathon. You start out energized but then there are sometimes long stretches before the next water station. Those stations are collaborations with a coach, editor, etc., and they provide just enough sustenance to keep going.
Rebecca noted that because the book shares so much of her story, it almost prequalifies her as a speaker. Her signature talk is called “Living Big in the Life You’re In,” and copies of the book are typically included in her speaking arrangement.
Rebecca offered this advice for other authors: Not everyone should write a book, but if you have that desire, just start. Be a good steward of that desire. With regard to a book and generally in business, serve people the way you think you can. Don’t have squirrel syndrome and/or try to do everything. Jodi and Rebecca noted their mutual friend Brit Kolo of marketingpersonalities.com[LINK], who often says, “If you don’t feel good, your audience won’t feel good.”
Rebecca shared that she’s currently reading mainly nonprofit management books, because she recently started a nonprofit, but that her favorite book this year was Educated by Tara Westover..
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think!
Find Rebecca here: