What does it really take to become a published author?

In this special roundtable edition of In The Writer’s Chair, host Lana McAra sits down with three Vendela Publishing authors for a candid conversation about writing, perseverance, publishing, rejection, inspiration, and the importance of finding the right creative community.

Lana is the author and ghostwriter of more than 50 published titles, with over one million copies sold. Joining her are writers from the Jacksonville, Florida area whose paths to publication could not be more different.

🎙️ MEET THE AUTHORS

Chris Koehler
A former university professor specializing in fisheries and aquatic biology, Chris is the author of the suspense thriller Cracked Island, a story rooted in Haitian history and culture.

Harry Martinez
A former Marine scout sniper and retired Army National Guard Sergeant Major, Harry is the author of One Is A Warrior, exploring leadership, service, sacrifice, and the realities faced by citizen soldiers.

Alexandra Harris
Alexandra grew up absorbing life lessons from celebrity magazines in her mother’s hair salon. Her writing focuses on practical tools for discovering your mission, embracing purpose, and finding your own joie de vivre.

🔑 IN THIS EPISODE

• How experiences in Haiti, military deployments, and even lessons from Mother Teresa inspired these authors to write
• Why perseverance may be the most important skill an author can develop
• Lana McAra’s story of enduring 19 rejections over 14 years before finally being published
• Chris Koehler’s funny, and painfully familiar, encounter with the world of literary agents
• Alexandra Harris on the difference between stressful work and fulfilling “chop wood, carry water” effort
• Why writers need mentors, colleagues, editors, and supportive communities
• What led these authors to work with Vendela Publishing
• Encouragement for aspiring authors who are still struggling to get those first words on the page

Whether you’re working on your first manuscript, searching for a publisher, or already navigating the writing life, this conversation is a reminder that becoming an author is rarely a straight line.

🔗 CONNECT

Vendela Publishing:
https://vendelapublishing.com

Chris Koehler:
https://chriscolter.com

Alexandra Harris:
https://alexandraharris.com

👍 If you enjoyed the conversation, please like the video, subscribe to the channel, and share it with a writer who could use a little encouragement.

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