Rich talks with Rachel Beronia to discuss creativity in all its forms, from books and short stories to horror films, video games, and visual art. She reflects on her childhood reading journey, influential works like The Catcher in the Rye and Ray Bradbury’s The Veldt, and her unique habit of reading the last page of a book first. Throughout the episode, Rachel explores a recurring theme she finds in many creative works: A longing for connection, acceptance, change, and meaning.

Guest: Rachel Beronia

Host: Rich Hebron

Producer: Assi Hann

In this episode of the Blue Byron Books podcast, aspiring writer Fortune Accime-Tobias shares how childhood cartoons like “Gravity Falls” and character-driven stories like “Charlotte's Web” shaped his creative voice.

We explore visual storytelling, emotional writing, sibling bonds as a recurring theme, and how shows like “Breaking Bad” influence his cinematic approach to narrative. Fortune also discusses the origins of his project “I Woke Up Mythologized” and what it means to create work that feels original in a world full of influence.

A thoughtful conversation about inspiration, discipline, and finding your voice as a storyteller.

Timothy Hayden II joins Rich to discuss prison, handwritten letters, philosophy, and the discipline required to become a published author. From five years of correspondence behind bars to co-authoring the Two Views, One Vision series, Timothy shares how vulnerability, persistence, and creative humility shaped his growth. Together, they reflect on editing, self-growth, leadership, and what it means to build Blue Byron Books with long-term vision and purpose.

Guest: Timothy Hayden II

Host: Rich Hebron

Producer: Assi Hann

Writer and novelist Mariana Narváez joins Rich Hebron to discuss poetry, novels, heartbreak, therapy, and the bravery required to publish your work. From writing a novel in her iPhone notes to creating children’s books for her nieces, Mariana shares how lived experience, patience, and curiosity shape meaningful storytelling. Recorded in Mexico City, set under jacaranda trees and sipping coffee.

Guest: Mariana Narváez

Host: Rich Hebron

Producer: Assi Hann

Founder and CEO Rich Hebron traces the origin of Blue Byron Books—from a self-published memoir and a logo drawn on receipt paper to a fast-moving, collaborative publishing house that released nearly 50 books in a single year.

Rich reflects on early creative influences, Chicago’s artistic scene, the impact of COVID, and the shift from traditional publishing to building something entirely his own. Along the way, podcasting, video, and collaboration reshaped his creative energy—but books remained the most meaningful way to put ideas into the world.

This episode is about rejecting outdated conventions, moving at lightning velocity, and creating a platform for bold, imaginative voices. It sets the tone for the podcast as a modern salon—where books, culture, and big ideas collide.

Host: Rich Hebron

Producer: Assi Hann