Ep 95 - Why Poppy the Opossum Is More Than a Kids’ Book

When April O’Leary first published her book in 2012, she had no idea it would lead to launching her own publishing company. But what she discovered is what she shares in this episode: books open doors.In this heartfelt guide to publishing, April distills over a decade of experience into 7 powerful steps. With compassion and clarity, she breaks down every part of the journey—from writing through editing to launch day and beyond.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the idea of publishing, this episode will inspire you to finally take the next step—and believe that your voice matters.In This Episode You’ll Learn:The first and most important step to publishing: understanding your “why”The differences between hybrid, traditional, and self-publishing—and which one’s right for youWhy your first draft doesn’t need to be perfect (or even polished)How developmental, line, and proof editing each serve a unique purposeWhy professional book design (not DIY!) matters for credibility and reachWhat to expect during the publishing and distribution processHow to ensure your book is available globally, not just on AmazonWhy most authors fail at the final step: marketing their bookWhy support, collaboration, and a publishing team are game-changersThe belief that your story is worth sharing—and how to finally take actionShare this!“Don’t let a lack of writing skills stop you—first drafts aren’t supposed to be perfect.”“Marketing isn’t optional if you want your book to reach people.”“This could be the year your book idea becomes real.”“You don’t have to publish alone. That’s what we’re here for.”Mentioned in this Episode:O’Leary Publishing's free guide: Manuscript MagicLet’s connect!Follow April on Instagram @olearypublishing

What do runes, herbal tea, and a wise owl named Mama B have in common? They’re all part of the magical world of Poppy the Awesome Opossum—a children’s chapter book series brought to life by Julie LeBriton.In this heartwarming episode, April O’Leary sits down with Julie to talk about how a chance discovery of a stuffed animal sparked an idea that became a two-book series, and how her stories carry big life messages disguised as forest adventures.Poppy’s journey is rooted in self-discovery, bravery, and curiosity. Children meet characters who teach lessons on intuition, friendship, and inner strength. Adults, too, will find themselves learning about meditation, runes, and the healing properties of teas—often for the first time.Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or simply someone who believes in the power of storytelling, this episode will inspire you to follow your creative nudges and maybe even throw a Poppy-themed tea party of your own.In This Episode You’ll Learn:How a stuffed animal inspired a magical children’s book series with a message of self-worthWhy introducing kids to meditation early can help them build lifelong emotional toolsWhat Norse runes are and how they’re used to empower children through storytellingHow Julie’s writing process was guided by intuition and meditation—often while driving or in stillnessThe significance of “keys” in the Poppy series and how they symbolize life lessons like bravery and purposeWhy it’s never too late to become an author, even if you’ve never considered yourself a writerHow herbal teas and essential oils are introduced to young readers to teach wellness in a playful wayThe creative extras that come with Julie’s books—from free coloring pages to 3D printed Poppy figuresHow parents, educators, and children can host Poppy-themed tea parties and literacy eventsThe importance of reading above your child’s level to spark imagination and encourage deeper understandingShare this!“This story didn’t belong to me—it belonged to everyone.”“Knowledge is a treasure—and kids deserve the keys early.”“Reading to your child stretches their mind beyond their reading level.”“Poppy teaches kids—and reminds parents—how awesome they are.”Mentioned in this Episode:Julie LeBriton’s WebsiteBook Review RafflePoppy the Awesome Opossum and the Book of RunesPoppy the Awesome Opossum and the Cedar TreasureO’Leary Publishing's free guide: Manuscript MagicLet’s connect!Follow April on Instagram @olearypublishing

At just nine years old, Christine Sadry boarded a plane in Poland alone, headed for a new life in America. What met her on the other side wasn’t the dream her grandmother spoke of—but silence, secrecy, and heartbreak.In this emotional episode, April O’Leary welcomes author Christine Sadry to share the breathtaking, heartbreaking, and ultimately triumphant story behind her memoir, 13 Years Lost: An Unbelievable Story of Fleeing Communist Poland to Traveling the World Serving the United Nations. Christine recounts her early childhood in communist Poland, the shattering loss of her mother, and a spontaneous invitation to come to America that forever changed the course of her life.But what was meant to be a hopeful new beginning turned into 13 years of silence, grief, and emotional imprisonment in an adoptive home where she was forbidden to speak of her past—or contact her family.This is a story for anyone who’s ever felt stuck in their past. For anyone looking for permission to dream again. For anyone wondering if it’s too late to start over.Spoiler alert: it’s not.In This Episode You’ll Learn:Why your childhood doesn’t define your futureThat silence can be its own kind of traumaThat resilience can be quietHow letting go is not forgetting—it’s reclaimingThat sometimes, the most healing act is telling your storyThat we don’t always get closure—but we can still move forwardWhy it’s never too late to start overThere is power in purposeShare this!“They made my life for 13 years. Now I get to make mine.”“Gratitude was expected. But silence was demanded.”“I realized I had to let the pain go or let it rule my life.”“A locked door held my past. But not my future.”Mentioned in this Episode:13 Years Lost: An Unbelievable Story of Fleeing Communist Poland to Traveling the World Serving the United NationsChristine Sadry’s WebsiteO’Leary Publishing's free guide: Manuscript MagicLet’s connect!Follow April on Instagram @olearypublishing

Publishing a book is no small feat—but what happens after the launch?In this episode of the I’m Booked podcast, April O’Leary sits down with author marketing strategist Kim Stewart to talk about the one tool most authors overlook: podcasting. Whether you're considering launching your own show or just want to get booked on others, this conversation is packed with tips, mindset shifts, and encouragement.Kim shares how her own journey from aspiring author to podcast host shaped her marketing career, and why podcasting has become her favorite platform to help authors extend their message beyond friends and family.From podcast formats that fit your style to planning content around your book, this episode will inspire you to stop waiting for the “perfect moment” and start showing up today—with your voice.In This Episode You’ll Learn:Why most authors plateau with their “warm market”How to know if podcasting is right for youWhat a short-run podcast can do for your bookCommon mistakes in book launchesWhy being personal beats being polishedShare this!“Just because people saw your book doesn’t mean they bought it. You’ve got to keep growing beyond that circle.“Podcasting builds trust faster than almost anything else.”“Start your podcast now. Don’t wait until the book is published.”“Let your book and your podcast work together to build momentum.”Mentioned in this Episode:Kim Stewart MarketingPodcast: Book Marketing ManiaO’Leary Publishing's free guide: Manuscript MagicLet’s connect!Follow April on Instagram @olearypublishing

When Karen Shepherd launched her book Lead with Love, she didn’t just throw an event—she sparked a movement. With decades-old friendships showing up in full force, her launch reminded us all of the power of genuine connection. In this heartfelt interview, April and Karen go beyond business talk to uncover how Karen’s mindset shift at 45—from transactional giving to heart-led leadership—became the cornerstone of her personal and professional life.Karen gets real about her past, her family legacy, and how her father’s wisdom as a Holocaust survivor shaped her into a woman who sees every obstacle as a gift. If you've ever struggled with giving from an empty cup or wondering if your story really matters, this episode is your sign: lead with love, and watch what happens.In This Episode You’ll Learn:Why Karen’s book launch was more than just an event—it was a celebration of connection.How her father's Holocaust survival shaped her core values of compassion and unity.The moment that transformed Karen’s leadership style and changed her life.How to give generously and lead from the heart—without expecting anything in return.Share this!“You can’t out-give the universe.” – Karen Shepherd“My leadership was selfish—until I realized it was never about me.” – Karen Shepherd“Obstacles are gifts. They’re the universe’s way of making us stronger.” – Karen Shepherd“My father taught me: it doesn't matter what color, race, or politics you follow. Are you a good human?” – Karen ShepherdMentioned in this Episode:⁠Lead with Love: 10 Heart-Centered Strategies to Build a More Profitable Business⁠⁠The Lead with Love Foundation⁠⁠HR By Karen⁠O’Leary Publishing's free guide:⁠ Manuscript Magic⁠Let’s connect!Follow April on Instagram⁠ @olearypublishing

When Karen Shepherd launched her book Lead with Love, she didn’t just throw an event—she sparked a movement. With decades-old friendships showing up in full force, her launch reminded us all of the power of genuine connection. In this heartfelt interview, April and Karen go beyond business talk to uncover how Karen’s mindset shift at 45—from transactional giving to heart-led leadership—became the cornerstone of her personal and professional life.Karen gets real about her past, her family legacy, and how her father’s wisdom as a Holocaust survivor shaped her into a woman who sees every obstacle as a gift. If you've ever struggled with giving from an empty cup or wondering if your story really matters, this episode is your sign: lead with love, and watch what happens.In This Episode You’ll Learn:Why Karen’s book launch was more than just an event—it was a celebration of connection.How her father's Holocaust survival shaped her core values of compassion and unity.The moment that transformed Karen’s leadership style and changed her life.How to give generously and lead from the heart—without expecting anything in return.Share this!“You can’t out-give the universe.” – Karen Shepherd“My leadership was selfish—until I realized it was never about me.” – Karen Shepherd“Obstacles are gifts. They’re the universe’s way of making us stronger.” – Karen Shepherd“My father taught me: it doesn't matter what color, race, or politics you follow. Are you a good human?” – Karen ShepherdMentioned in this Episode:Lead with Love: 10 Heart-Centered Strategies to Build a More Profitable BusinessThe Lead with Love FoundationHR By KarenO’Leary Publishing's free guide: Manuscript MagicLet’s connect!Follow April on Instagram @olearypublishing

Author Stacy Blemaster brings her best to our podcast with tons of insight about mental health and we discuss her new book To Be or Not To Be. You'll really enjoy this powerful episode! To get a copy of Stacy's book on Amazon https://amzn.to/4dWOija. To take the Author Adventure Quiz https://olearypublishing.com/homepage To get a copy of Who Me, An Author? https://olearypublishing.com/whome

Michelle Glogovac is THE Podcast Matchmaker™, a podcast publicist, author of How To Get On Podcasts (McGraw Hill, 2024) and host of the award winning podcast, My Simplified Life and CEO + Founder of The MLG Collective®. Today we talk about the magic of getting on podcasts and how to create a podcast book tour. For more about Michelle visit https://michelleglogovac.com/. For more about becoming an author schedule a publishing consultation at https://olearypublishing.com/consultation.

Jennifer Johnson is the author of Grace & Grit: Becoming a Confident Entrepreneur. As a lifelong, entrepreneur she shares some of the core values she discovered on her path to successful entrepreneurship and some of the pitfalls. To connect with Jennifer online visit www.jenniferannjohnson.com and to purchase her book Grace & Grit visit https://amzn.to/3XI9moM. For more about becoming an author schedule a publishing consultation at https://olearypublishing.com/consultation.

In this episode, Diagnostic Radiologist and author Thomas Hudson, M.D. shares his journey to finding the deeper meaning in everyday life and sharing his thoughts in beautifully written poetry in his most recent book Something Deeper: 31 Spiritual Poems to Help You Navigate Life. To connect with Dr. Thomas Hudson online, visit www.thomashudsonmd.com to schedule a private consultation. For more about becoming an author schedule a publishing consultation at https://olearypublishing.com/consultation.