From Soldier to Fantasy Author with Richard Spegal

What happens when a lifelong passion for storytelling refuses to stay a hobby?In this episode of Finish the Damn Book, Susie Schaefer welcomes fantasy author and Army veteran Richard Spegal to discuss his journey from military service to becoming a successful independent author. Richard shares how a short story written to impress the woman who would become his wife evolved into the Wolves and Ravens trilogy, the hard lessons he learned after years of navigating vanity publishers, and why he ultimately chose to build his own publishing brand.The conversation explores creativity, intuition, world-building, mental health, and the realities of writing immersive fantasy that resonates with readers. Richard also offers practical advice for aspiring authors about protecting their work, finding trusted publishing partners, and why every writer should keep reading.In this episode: Richard's journey from soldier to published author  The truth about vanity publishing  Building your own author brand  Creating original fantasy worlds  Intuition and the creative process  Mental health and storytelling  Advice for aspiring authors Connect with Richard Spegal🌐 Website: https://richardspegal.com/📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/richardspegalbooks/👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/richardpspegal/See the full episode at https://geni.us/fdb-richard-spegal Finish the Damn Book Podcast helps aspiring authors, entrepreneurs, creatives, and writers finally complete the book they know they’re meant to write.Hosted by Susie Schaefer, the podcast cuts through perfectionism, writer’s block, overwhelm, and publishing confusion with honest conversations about writing, publishing, book marketing, creativity, and the author journey.Featuring authors, editors, ghostwriters, publishers, writing coaches, and industry professionals, each episode offers practical strategies to help writers finish, publish, and share meaningful books.Topics include: • Writing and revision tips • Publishing and self-publishing guidance • Book marketing and platform-building • Creativity, confidence, and procrastination • Encouragement for writers stuck in the messy middleMany episodes close with Susie’s signature “Reflection Moment”, an intuitive conversation exploring creativity, identity, purpose, and the emotional side of becoming an author.Whether you’re writing memoir, nonfiction, business, or personal development, Finish the Damn Book is here to help you trust your voice and finally bring your story to life.Ready to move your book forward? https://www.finishthebookpublishing.com/