Turning Trauma into Triumph: The Birth of “My Name Is Saffron”

In this powerful episode of Finish the Damn Book, Susie Schaefer sits down with bestselling author and women’s advocate Saffron Gustafson, who began writing her book My Name Is Saffron while serving time in federal prison. From solitary confinement with a bendable pencil to becoming a bestselling author, Saffron shares how journaling became her lifeline and how her experiences inspired Maree Haven, a nonprofit dedicated to helping women transition after incarceration. This is a story of resilience, redemption, and reclaiming your voice—even in the darkest of places. 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/