Blue Byron Books

Timothy Hayden II returns to the Blue Byron Books podcast to discuss the release of his fifth book, A Mind Left Unchecked. What begins as a conversation about Chicago winters and California “cold” quickly becomes a deep dive into writing, discipline and creative obsession. Timothy opens up about discovering writing while struggling with depression in 2018, how his time in prison shaped his mindset, and why publishing five books has become proof of the person he is becoming. He reflects on the difference between his first book and his fifth, the importance of staying humble, and why falling in love with the work matters more than chasing recognition. The conversation also explores the creative partnership behind Blue Byron Books, the challenges of editing and revision, Kobe Bryant’s “Mamba Mentality,” the value of producing many "imperfect" works instead of chasing perfection, and the larger vision of building a collaborative team of writers, editors, designers, creatives, and thinkers. Guest: Timothy Hayden II Host: Rich Hebron Producer: Assi Hann

In this episode, the Blue Byron Books Podcast visits with Preston Rowley for a wide-ranging conversation on creativity, identity, and what it really means to be an artist. From growing up with an innate need to create to questioning the difference between writers, artists, and modern-day “content creators,” Preston reflects on how creativity functions as both an outlet and a compulsion. The discussion explores the role of ambiguity in art, the influence of classic literature, and the tension between ambition and fulfillment—drawing on works like Frankenstein and broader philosophical ideas about meaning and success. The conversation also expands into the modern world: how social media shapes creativity and empathy, the pressures of constant connection, and the looming impact of AI and environmental change on the future of human experience. Guest: Preston Rowley Host: Rich Hebron Producer: Assi Hann

In this episode of the Blue Byron Books Podcast, Rich is joined by Nadia Josephine Prescott from Saint Lucia, for a thoughtful conversation on writing, creativity, and the inner world of a storyteller. Nadia shares how books became her form of escapism from a young age, shaping her identity and creative voice. Together, they dive into the tactile beauty of writing by hand versus digital notes, the emotional experience of revisiting old journals, and the balance between discipline and inspiration in creative work. Guest: Nadia Josephine Prescott Host: Rich Hebron Producer: Assi Hann

Chris Bouck joins the show from Denver in this episode to explore the creative process and the power of art to help people feel understood. The conversation ranges from early influences like “Frankenstein” and childhood books to poetry, liminal imagery, and how music and literature shape the way we experience emotion. Chris shares insights into his creative process, the role of solitude and discipline in making art, and why juxtaposition and duality show up so often in the work that inspires him. The discussion also explores deeper questions about modern life: how technology affects our ability to feel truly “seen,” why people return to certain books throughout their lives, and how artists today respond to the emotional landscape of the present moment. If you're interested in creativity, storytelling, and the psychology behind great art, this episode offers an honest and thoughtful conversation about what it means to create and connect. Guest: Chris Bouck Host: Rich Hebron Producer: Assi Hann

Rich talks with Rachel Beronia to discuss creativity in all its forms, from books and short stories to horror films, video games, and visual art. She reflects on her childhood reading journey, influential works like The Catcher in the Rye and Ray Bradbury’s The Veldt, and her unique habit of reading the last page of a book first. Throughout the episode, Rachel explores a recurring theme she finds in many creative works: A longing for connection, acceptance, change, and meaning. Guest: Rachel Beronia Host: Rich Hebron Producer: Assi Hann

In this episode of the Blue Byron Books podcast, aspiring writer Fortune Accime-Tobias shares how childhood cartoons like “Gravity Falls” and character-driven stories like “Charlotte's Web” shaped his creative voice. We explore visual storytelling, emotional writing, sibling bonds as a recurring theme, and how shows like “Breaking Bad” influence his cinematic approach to narrative. Fortune also discusses the origins of his project “I Woke Up Mythologized” and what it means to create work that feels original in a world full of influence. A thoughtful conversation about inspiration, discipline, and finding your voice as a storyteller.

Timothy Hayden II joins Rich to discuss prison, handwritten letters, philosophy, and the discipline required to become a published author. From five years of correspondence behind bars to co-authoring the Two Views, One Vision series, Timothy shares how vulnerability, persistence, and creative humility shaped his growth. Together, they reflect on editing, self-growth, leadership, and what it means to build Blue Byron Books with long-term vision and purpose. Guest: Timothy Hayden II Host: Rich Hebron Producer: Assi Hann

Writer and novelist Mariana Narváez joins Rich Hebron to discuss poetry, novels, heartbreak, therapy, and the bravery required to publish your work. From writing a novel in her iPhone notes to creating children’s books for her nieces, Mariana shares how lived experience, patience, and curiosity shape meaningful storytelling. Recorded in Mexico City, set under jacaranda trees and sipping coffee. Guest: Mariana Narváez Host: Rich Hebron Producer: Assi Hann

Founder and CEO Rich Hebron traces the origin of Blue Byron Books—from a self-published memoir and a logo drawn on receipt paper to a fast-moving, collaborative publishing house that released nearly 50 books in a single year. Rich reflects on early creative influences, Chicago’s artistic scene, the impact of COVID, and the shift from traditional publishing to building something entirely his own. Along the way, podcasting, video, and collaboration reshaped his creative energy—but books remained the most meaningful way to put ideas into the world. This episode is about rejecting outdated conventions, moving at lightning velocity, and creating a platform for bold, imaginative voices. It sets the tone for the podcast as a modern salon—where books, culture, and big ideas collide. Host: Rich Hebron Producer: Assi Hann