Called to Create: An LDSPMA Podcast

 From Rejection to Bestseller: Heather B. Moore's 20-Year Writing Journey

In this inspiring episode of Called to Create, Scott and Darla Brandley sit down with award-winning author Heather B. Moore to explore her remarkable journey from aspiring writer to published success.

Heather shares the raw truth about her early writing career—starting at age 30 while helping her grandmother with her personal history, facing rejection after rejection, and nearly giving up on her dreams. But it was her husband's advice to "fight for it" and one pivotal phone call that changed everything.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• How Heather learned the craft of writing through a weekly critique group
• The hierarchy of rejection letters (and why the worst isn't always a form letter)
• The incredible story of writing a complete book in just 2 months while caring for four young children, including a nursing baby
• Why she writes from 4-7 AM, inspired by Mary Higgins Clark
• Her transition from LDS fiction to national historical novels, including World War II and Cold War stories
• Practical advice on setting personal goals, meeting deadlines, and staying motivated through the long publishing journey
• How to handle rejection, imposter syndrome, and comparing yourself to other writers

Key Takeaway: "Don't give up. If you wanna get published, don't give up. Just follow your heart—it's totally possible to achieve your dreams. Stay creative, stay close to the Lord, and know that creativity and writing is definitely a gift that we can cultivate."

Heather B. Moore has been writing for over 20 years, publishing everything from Biblical and Book of Mormon historical fiction to contemporary World War II novels. Her recent book Rebecca and Isaac won a praiseworthy award at LDS-PMA, and her latest work Her America (releasing August 2025) profiles eight women who transformed America. 

Spark Award winner Melody J Williams

Season 6 - Episode 5 of LDSPMA's "Called to Create" podcast

 “ When you find that thing that is at that creative outlet that lets you just recharge and fill your cup when it's empty, it makes all the difference.”

Author Anneka Walker talks about finding purpose in her writing that helped her through trials in her life in our latest episode of "Called to Create" Season 6. Please subscribe so you don't miss an episode.

Interview with Spark Award winner Roy Fullmer. "I am an artist that loves writing my recent songs. They are all songs that reflect in my personal life and trying to inspire to become more of a power anthem for others." 

Called to Create Season 6 - Episode 2

Interview with Spark Award winner Gunnar Andersen on his creative journey in composing music to tell the story of the Restoration.

Praiseworthy Award winning podcaster, Cassidy Beck, joins Scott & Alisha for our Season 6 premiere.

In this heartwarming episode of Called to Create, Guest Host M.D. House, president of LDSPMA, welcomes Alisha Coakley and Scott Brandley from the Latter-Day Lights podcast. They discuss their experiences with creating over 150 episodes, the importance of networking within the LDS podcasting community, and how these platforms help spread light and inspire listeners. The trio also touches on their favorite episodes, challenges faced, and the spiritual growth that comes from sharing and hearing personal stories. Additionally, Scott delves into his newly launched book 'Faith to Stay', offering insights into its creation and the fascinating topics it covers. 

Join us for this enriching conversation that's sure to uplift and motivate aspiring creators.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:45 The Universe of LDS Podcasts

02:10 Networking and Cross-Pollination

06:15 Challenges in Podcasting

08:41 Personal Growth and Listener Impact

13:11 Top Episodes and Memorable Guests

19:06 The Journey of Writing 'Faith to Stay'

25:58 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Scott has a new book, "Faith to Stay." The link to get your free copy is:  https://www.faithtostay.com/

Join guest host, renowned author Brandon Mull, as he interviews Eva Timothy, an accomplished author and photographer. Eva, originally from Bulgaria, shares how her upbringing under communism influenced her artistic vision and the pivotal role her father played in nurturing her love for beauty and light. From discussing the power of dreams and hard work to the profound relationship between creativity and divinity, this conversation offers inspiring insights into pursuing one's passion despite challenges. Discover how Eva's journey led her to achieve recognition, including works showcased at the Smithsonian, and the deeply rooted spiritual connections that drive her creativity. 

Whether you're an artist or someone seeking inspiration, this episode promises to ignite your creative spirit.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

02:01 Eva's Early Life in Bulgaria

05:08 The Influence of Eva's Parents

13:05 Journey to America

20:30 Developing as a Professional Creative

24:41 The Role of Faith and Light in Creativity

36:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Looking for more inspiration? Visit us at https://ldspma.org/ to learn more. 

Guest host Jenna Carson, a chaplain and captain in the U.S. Air Force, interviews filmmaker and comedian Mallory Everton. Best known for her work on BYUtv's Studio C and JK Studios' Freelancers, Mallory shares her journey from nursing aspirant to established artist. The conversation focuses on  her creative process, the importance of comedy in dark times, and how she navigates the challenges of a patchwork career as an artist. Mallory offers insights into maintaining a joyful and authentic approach to creativity, driven by curiosity and a deep relationship with God.

Tune in for an inspiring discussion about art, resilience, and the pursuit of one's calling.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:11 Mallory Everton's Background and Current Life

03:37 Creative Process and Inspirations

05:49 Challenges and Overcoming Creative Blocks

11:51 Navigating the Uncertainty of an Artistic Career

18:18 Relationship with God and Spiritual Insights

21:49 Advice for Aspiring Creatives

25:42 Mallory's Early Creative Influences

28:16 College Plans and Career Shift

32:48 Joining and Growing Studio C

38:30 The Impact and Value of Comedy

47:07 Mallory's Future Projects and Social Media

Assistant Producer Cassidy Beck interviews MD House, the current president of Latter-day Saints in Publishing, Media, and the Arts (LDSPMA). They discuss Michael's transition from a successful career in corporate finance to becoming a passionate writer. Michael shares his experiences with LDSPMA, detailing its volunteer-driven community, mentoring programs, and conferences. The conversation also covers Michael's unexpected journey into writing historical biblical fiction, his inspiration behind his books, and the importance of uniting creatives with faith-centered purposes. Learn how MD House balances his professional career with his creative passions and discover more about the upcoming Christian Creatives Expo in Orlando. 

Don't miss this inspiring episode full of valuable insights for storytellers, artists, and creatives of all kinds.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:36 MD House's Background and Career

01:26 Discovering LDSPMA

02:15 Volunteering and Mentorship Program

02:54 Becoming LDSPMA President

03:47 Personal Experiences with LDSPMA

07:36 Christian Creatives Expo Teaser

09:58 Conference Highlights and Keynote Speakers

16:30 Future Plans and Membership Program

17:53 The Importance of Finding Your People

18:29 Conference Highlights and Networking

21:14 New Partnerships and Film Festival

22:30 Transitioning from Business to Writing

23:21 Writing Journey and Inspirations

26:36 Exploring Historical Fiction

32:15 Podcast and Community Engagement

34:02 Final Words on Finding Your People