#65 Finding Your Authentic Voice: From Mental Health Recovery to Publishing Stories That Matter with Gemma Holgate
In this episode of the Writing with Purpose podcast, I'm joined by Gemma Holgate, author, ghostwriter, and founder of Maddison House Press. Gemma's journey from post traumatic stress recovery to building a publishing house dedicated to meaningful stories demonstrates how finding our authentic voice can become a force for positive change in the world.
After struggling to readjust to life in the UK following three years in New Zealand, Gemma faced a diagnosis of mild PTSD that became an unexpected catalyst for transformation. Learning to distinguish between her own voice and others' expectations led her to create a business model that helps thought leaders, change makers, and positive impact pioneers share their stories as "beautiful books" that inspire action and connection.
From her grandfather's lost stories to her passionate stance that books must have "soul" in an AI-driven world, Gemma reveals how authentic storytelling becomes medicine for both writer and reader.
"The more I dug into who I am and what do I want that to be,the more me I was able to be. And you know, five years later in 2020, I left employed work and went self-employed."
In this episode:
"When you read something or you look at anything that's been created, it's about having that connection with the art itself, but then a connection with the artist as well."
Gemma shares practical wisdom for aspiring authors, including:
Connect with Gemma
To learn more about Gemma’s books, publishing and talks, please connect with her by visiting the Maddison House Press website.
"At the end of a great book, you should put it down and say, 'now I'm going to...' And as an author, if you want to write a book, what do you want that dot dot dot to be in your reader?"
Also mentioned in this podcast:
Andrew Michael Hurley ‘Barrowbeck’
Gwen Hayes ‘Romancing the Beat’
William Nicholson ‘Wind on the Fire’ Trilogy
Jessica Brody ‘Save the Cat’
R.L. Stine Point Horror
Podcast Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Gemma Holgate
10:37 The Power of Journalling
15:25 Early Influences and the Love for Storytelling
23:20 Navigating Mental Health and Finding Your Voice
29:11 Transformative Experiences and the Healing Power of Stories
29:31 Navigating Personal Boundaries in Storytelling
32:17 Breaking Down Misconceptions Through Storytelling
34:16 The Healing Power of Sharing Your Story
35:28 The Multifaceted World of Publishing
37:28 Authenticity in Writing
40:03 Finding Inspiration in Nature
43:59 Positive Impact in Storytelling
51:02 Structuring Your Story for Maximum Impact
55:13 Advice for Aspiring Authors
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