On this episode of Spirit Talk Show – Bedtime Stories for Grownups, Doyle welcomes Shanti Hershenson, a 17-year-old literary powerhouse who has already written 30 books — 17 of them published. Shanti’s work spans science fiction, fantasy, dystopian adventure, and deeply personal poetry, including her acclaimed novel-in-verse You Won’t Know Her Name, which confronts the painful realities of middle-school bullying.

Her story began in sixth grade with what she calls an “accidental” self-publishing experiment, but that early leap gave her the skills to grow into a prolific author and fearless advocate for young writers. Alongside her novels — including BioLock, The Accidental Insurgency, The Chronicles of Zyle Delane, and the forthcoming Good Kids Bad Choices — Shanti uses her 67,000-strong TikTok following to connect with readers, share her process, and amplify anti-bullying advocacy.

In this inspiring and refreshingly candid conversation, Shanti opens up about:

• Writing 1,000 words every day since age 12

• Balancing high school, friendships, and a relentless creative drive

• Why poetry gave her the freedom to tell her most vulnerable story

• How social media has transformed her career and community

• The message she wants readers of all ages to hear: you’re never too young—or too old—to chase your dream

At once inspiring and deeply grounded, Shanti Hershenson proves that stories have no age limit—only courage and conviction.

Connect with Shanti Hershenson:

• Website: ⁠shantihershenson.com⁠

• Amazon Author Page: ⁠amazon.com/Shanti-Hershenson⁠

• Instagram: ⁠@shantihershenson⁠

• TikTok: ⁠@shantiwhowrites⁠