E753 - Auri Jones - Abandoned Prayer Series, God Make Me Weak, Broken and Uncomfortable

EPISODE 753 - Auri Jones - Abandoned Prayer Series, God Make Me Weak, Broken and UncomfortableAuri Jones Interview: From Diverse Roles to Storytelling ImpactAuri Jones shares his dynamic journey in this episode, bringing energy from his varied background in teaching audio and media communications, motivational speaking, youth direction, worship leading, rap/hip hop artistry, and communications work at Capital One. Living just outside Charlotte, North Carolina in Gastonia, he reflects on how these experiences all connect through storytelling and audience connection.Auri emphasizes creating with passion for both the message and the people receiving it. He explains that whether teaching students, producing motivational videos, or writing books, his focus remains on what listeners or readers will learn, feel, or carry away. Passion shows through even without flashy production, creating a boomerang effect that draws people in when genuine care is evident.He encourages creators to get out of their own way and share their work despite fears of low engagement. One inspired person can spark wider impact, and opportunities like a holiday story he wrote for a work leader unexpectedly led to a published book, reader discussions, and ongoing connections through Zoom calls and meetups.Auri dives into his writing process, starting with detailed character biographies to make them feel real and relatable. He avoids absolutes like pure good versus evil, giving every character layers of humanity that mirror real struggles with faith, fear, self-worth, and calling. Readers connect differently, finding pieces of themselves in multiple perspectives rather than a single hero.His latest, Miren: The Prophecy of the Fuhrer (Book 1 in the Miren Journey series), follows ordinary girl Emma thrust into a fantasy world after her parents vanish, uncovering a prophecy with her cousins. Inspired by kayaking past a mansion and imagining hidden worlds, the story blends adventure like Narnia or Percy Jackson with deep, everyday themes. Targeted for ages 12+, it sneaks in mature ideas adults appreciate while entertaining younger readers.Auri writes as if reading alongside his characters, embracing surprises and cliffhangers without plotting endings upfront. His youth ministry experience informs including heavy topics, believing kids handle more than expected and fantasy worlds spark real conversations.Key Takeaway: Passionately tell your story with your audience in mind, get out of your own way, and watch one connection ripple into unexpected impact.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B06XJ9XS5J/allbookshttps://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/miren-auri-jones/1148302130Support the show___https://livingthenextchapter.com/podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks!https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca