🎙 Episode 15 – Reclaiming My Authentic Self with Victor Fernandes
Host: Renée Lautermilch, Chief Editor at Smart Publishing
Guest: Victor Fernandes, Author & Founder of Fernandes Fit LLC

Episode Overview:
In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Renée sits down with Victor Fernandes—bestselling author of Reclaiming My Authentic Self: A Journey from Fear to Freedom. Victor opens up about his transformative journey of losing 75 pounds, walking away from a 26-year journalism career, and starting a new life—and business—built on passion, purpose, and health.

They discuss the moment that changed everything, the generational beliefs that shaped him, and how he ultimately chose to break free, write his story, and share it with the world.

What You’ll Learn:

• What sparked Victor’s decision to completely transform his life at age 48

• The emotional process of writing about family, fear, and vulnerability

• How he finally got his book written after decades of delay

• Real talk about imposter syndrome and overcoming self-doubt

• Tips for leveraging your book after it’s published—from signings to community outreach

• Why your story matters—no matter how late you think it is to share it

Memorable Quotes:
🗣 “Your story matters. And not just to you—it’s going to matter to someone else.”🗣 “I didn’t want to just make a paycheck anymore. I wanted to make an impact.”🗣 “Once I stopped trying to write and started talking, the book finally came out.”

Resources Mentioned:
📘 Reclaiming My Authentic Self: A Journey from Fear to Freedom by Victor Fernandes – Available on Amazon
📍 Fernandes Fit LLC – Learn More (if applicable)

Connect with Victor:
Instagram: @fernandes_fitFacebook: Victor Fernandes

Subscribe & Review:
If this episode moved you, subscribe to The Smart Publishing Impact Series on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. Don’t forget to leave a review and share with someone who needs the reminder: It’s never too late to tell your story.