In this insightful interview, author Stephen Ray shares his journey of overcoming ADHD and Tourette's, the creative process behind his fantasy series, and the importance of authentic representation of mental health in fiction. Discover how personal struggles can fuel compelling storytelling and learn practical tips for aspiring writers.

What You’ll Learn:

Personal journey with ADHD and Tourette's

World building in fantasy series

Authentic representation of mental health

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

00:58 What Is Stephen's Mission Regarding His Book

03:35 What It Was Like Growing Up With Multiple Disorders

06:59 How Art Became an Outlet for Expression

12:31 What Stephen Learned From His Previous Book

14:45 The Sources Stephen Used To Understand His Characters

17:35 Are Characters The Most Important Aspect Of Books

18:48 How AutoBiographical Is Silver Steps

22:18 Fiction vs Self-Help: A Gateway To Understanding

24:23 Does Silver Steps Have World Building

25:30 How Stephen Built A Whole World Around Disorders

29:01 Addressing Misrepresentation of Disorders in Literature

33:40 How Stephen's Kickstarter Went

38:27 Stephen's Unique Creature Concept In Silver Steps

43:54 The Value Of Fantasy Literature

47:25 Does Stephen's Disorders Affect His Children

50:21 Stephen's Transition Into Ministry & Christianity

53:46 Is Stephen A Better Writer Because Of ADHD & Tourettes

56:06 Stephen's New Series Heretic Cycle

01:03:39 Closing Thoughts

About The Podcast:

Authors By Us is a podcast focused on bridging the gap between readers and authors - going beyond the book to explore the real stories, experiences, and perspectives behind the pages.

Each episode is designed to help you understand the author on a deeper level so by the end, it feels like you’ve just had a conversation with them yourself.

Call To Action:

If you enjoy conversations like this, make sure to subscribe for weekly episodes with authors sharing the real story behind their work.

#authorinterview #authorpodcast #bookpodcast #writingpodcast #podcast #storytelling #behindthebook #authorsbyus #writerlife #authorlife #amwriting #booklovers #readersofyoutube #bookcommunity #writingcommunity #readers #writers #books #authorsofyoutube #podcastshow

author interview podcast, book podcast for readers, storytelling podcast, behind the book podcast, author conversation podcast, writing podcast for authors

meet the author podcast, how authors write books, author journey stories, writing process explained, books and authors discussion, reader and author connection

deep dive author interview, podcast for book lovers, understanding authors, story behind the book, author insights podcast, writing and storytelling insights