Ready to Be Published

In this deeply moving episode, Vinnie sits down with Jeffrey Veatch, author of The Dyer Island Boys, to discuss the true-life inspiration behind his novel set off the coast of Maine. Veatch shares the remarkable story of a real island summer camp that shaped his writing, his journey from documentary filmmaker to novelist, and how collaboration brought his book to life—from cover design to interior layout and audiobook narration.But this conversation goes far deeper than the creative process.Jeffrey opens up about the devastating loss of his son Justin to drug overdose, and how he and his family channeled their grief into powerful action through The Justin Veatch Fund—a nonprofit that has awarded nearly 80 music scholarships and impacted thousands of students across the U.S. through school talks, performances, and a moving documentary, Whispering Spirits.You’ll hear about:The real island that inspired The Dyer Island BoysDesigning a book with heart: buoys, compasses, and custom graphicsCreating the first Volossal audiobook—narrated by Jeffrey himselfThe story of Justin Veatch: music, loss, and legacyHow one family turned tragedy into a mission of service, awareness, and hopeThe power of showing up: school talks, book readings, and meeting readers face to faceWhether you're a reader, a parent, an educator, or someone who believes in the power of turning pain into purpose, this is a conversation you won’t forget.The Dyer Island Boys is available in print, ebook, and audio formats.Learn more about The Justin Veatch Fund and listen to Peregrine: The Music of Justin Veatch & Friends at: thejustinveatchfund.org

In this episode of Ready to Be Published, Volossal Publishing founder Vinnie Corbo sits down with author Kyle S. Colgan to explore the making of his debut novel, Death by Culture Shock. Blending autobiographical fiction, grief, love, and cultural identity, Colgan shares how his background in filmmaking led him to prose—and why this deeply personal novel took five years to write.The conversation dives into writing through grief, navigating interracial marriage and cultural blending, and the emotional complexity of showing up for someone you love during loss. Colgan discusses how his wife’s Pakistani and Muslim background influenced both his life and his storytelling, and how shared trauma, family dynamics, and cultural differences shape relationships in powerful, universal ways.Kyle also opens up about his creative process, the discipline of revision, learning when to “kill your darlings,” and knowing when a book is truly finished. The episode explores the importance of collaboration, feedback, pacing, and craft—and why taking your time matters in a world obsessed with speed and output.Whether you’re an aspiring author, a literary fiction reader, or interested in stories about grief, identity, interracial relationships, and emotional honesty, this episode offers a rare, behind‑the‑scenes look at how meaningful novels are built—line by line, draft by draft.

Immigrant Hearts and Literary Legacy: A Conversation with Catherine Gigante-BrownIn this heartfelt episode of the Ready to Be Published Podcast, host Vinnie Corbo of Volossal Publishing sits down with acclaimed author Catherine Gigante-Brown to explore the inspiration, structure, and impact of her latest novel, Immigrant Hearts.Rooted in her own family’s Italian American immigrant history, Immigrant Hearts weaves a multigenerational tale of love, resilience, and community during pre-WWII America. Catherine opens up about how this novel, based on her maternal grandparents’ lives, came together—complete with vintage photos, restored archival images, and a compelling cast of characters inspired by real people.Together, Vinnie and Catherine discuss:How anti-immigrant sentiment past and present shaped the storyWhy Immigrant Hearts might be her most successful book yetHer evolving writing style and unique chapter structuresThe importance of authentic dialogue and character developmentEaster eggs, reader feedback, and honoring family legacies through fictionHow she built a grassroots promotional network through local bookstores, podcasts, museums, and virtual readingsHer entire body of work, from Different Drummer to Cry of Silence, Paul & Carol Go to Guatemala, and moreWhether you’re an aspiring author, a lover of immigrant stories, or a fan of contemporary historical fiction, this conversation offers rich insights into the writing life, publishing process, and the timeless importance of telling personal stories that resonate universally.

Author Maggie Zurowska (pronounced Zhoo-RAHV-ska) sits down with Vinnie Corbo from Volossal Publishing to share her journey from a free-range childhood in Poland’s mountains to the culture shock of New York City—and how that led to two candid books, Sex and Yoga and Behind My American Dream.We talk about adventure vs. expectations, leaving a small town where everyone knows your family, working for the ultra-wealthy in the Hamptons, finding balance in yoga and spirituality, discovering veganism (ahimsa), and why honest memoirs matter—even if they’re not written to please everyone.In this conversation:Growing up in Poland & why she leftIdentity beyond family reputationNYC culture shock & class dividesWhat Sex and Yoga is (and isn’t)Spiritual awakening & nature/animal connectionBecoming vegan and teaching plant-based cookingHow personal stories help readers find their own pathBooks by Maggie:Behind My American Dream – memoir of immigration, reinvention, and compassionSex and Yoga – creativity vs. discipline, and finding balance through practiceAbout the guest:Maggie is an author, chef/instructor, and vegan advocate based in California. She teaches hands-on classes (gnocchi, fresh pasta, tacos, more) that surprise non-vegans and inspire curious cooks.About the host:This interview is part of Volossal Publishing’s author series with Vinnie—spotlighting bold, personal stories that spark conversation.

In this episode of Ready to Be Published, host Vinnie Corbo sits down with Chuck Redmen, author of the sharp, satirical novel Low Worm Diet. Together, they explore Chuck’s unique literary voice, the power of authentic dialogue, and the challenge (and joy) of writing for a thoughtful, discerning audience.Chuck shares how his background in law and his passion for animal rights shaped his storytelling—and how his transition into acting helped refine his approach to dialogue. Vinnie and Chuck also dive into Chuck’s creative process, his earlier novel A Cottonwood Stand, and why Low Worm Diet is unlike anything you've read before.This book isn’t just smart—it’s funny, biting, and refreshingly original. All royalties go to All For Love Animal Rescue, making this a feel-good listen in more ways than one.A must-hear for:Writers looking to develop believable, witty dialogueFans of literary satire and smart humorReaders who love books that challenge, entertain, and inspireSupporters of animal rescue causesConnect with Volossal Publishing and discover more stories worth telling.

Trilogies, Easter Eggs, and Indie Author TruthsJoin Vinnie Corbo, publisher at Volossal Publishing, in this in-depth and heartfelt conversation with acclaimed author Catherine Gigante-Brown—the powerhouse behind The EL Trilogy. From unexpected beginnings to building a beloved fictional family across three decades of storytelling, Cathy shares her writing process, the evolution of her Brooklyn-based characters, and the power of staying creative on your own terms.They explore what it really takes to publish multiple novels, build an author brand, work with a boutique press, and why it sometimes pays to be a “small press” author. You'll hear candid advice for aspiring writers, behind-the-scenes moments from designing book covers, a peek into upcoming projects, and how storytelling can preserve memory, culture, and emotion for generations.Whether you're an emerging writer, indie publishing fan, or longtime reader of The EL, this episode delivers creative inspiration, laughs, and lots of insight into the world of modern storytelling.Topics include:How The EL became The Bells of Brooklyn… then Brooklyn RosesWriting family sagas that span decades (and still feel intimate)Creating “Easter eggs” for devoted readersWorking with a small press vs. traditional publishingBook cover design as homage (Elvis, The Clash, 70s nostalgia)Why poetry still matters (even if it doesn’t sell)What makes publishing worth it

In this heartwarming episode of Ready to Be Published, publisher Vinnie Corbo welcomes Claire Clement and Judy Aiston, co-authors of The Adventures of Molly the Beagle, a beautifully illustrated children’s book based on the true story of a mischievous, lovable rescue dog.More than just a lighthearted story, this episode explores how two retired respiratory therapists—who worked on the front lines during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic—used their lifelong friendship and creative talents to bring Molly’s adventures to life. Claire penned the story, inspired by her real-life beagle’s daring escapes, and Judy returned to her artistic roots to illustrate the book—using an iPad, a new skillset, and lots of determination.They discuss:Their 20+ year friendship and bond forged in healthcareHow Molly inspired a story of adventure, curiosity, and second chancesJudy’s journey from graphic artist and professional clown to digital illustratorHow Volossal Publishing gave them creative freedom, including post-publication revisionsClaire’s emotional dedication to her late son, a dog lover who helped adopt MollyTips for new authors, promoting children’s books locally, and donating to libraries and hospitalsFrom laughter over pandemic mask mishaps to unexpected connections with other “Molly” owners, this episode celebrates creativity, resilience, and the power of storytelling to honor loved ones and uplift children.Perfect For Listeners Who Love:Uplifting origin stories behind children’s booksRescue dog storiesAuthor and illustrator collaborationsWomen creatives and post-retirement reinventionsEmotional legacy and healing through artIndependent publishing and creative control

Author A.R. Baumann joins Vinnie Corbo in the Volossal Publishing studio for an intimate and unscripted conversation about her gritty and beloved character, Nick Noelle. From the genesis of the first two novels—Under a Cloud of Rain and Thicker Than Blood—to the upcoming third installment, this episode dives into the inspirations, personal experiences, and family influences that shaped Nick’s complex world.A.R. shares candid stories of growing up with a charismatic, hard-edged father, reflects on past relationships that mirror her fictional detective, and explores how she weaves herself—flaws and all—into Nick's voice. From dark addictions to secret codes of honor, Nick Noelle is more than a character; he's the man you know, the man you loved, or the man you once were.If you’re curious about character-driven storytelling, writing flawed heroes, or building a series with emotional depth and streetwise grit, this is the episode for you.

In this episode of Ready to Be Published, publisher Vinnie Corbo talks with longtime Volossal author Catherine Gigante-Brown, a true DIY marketing powerhouse. Catherine shares practical, creative, and low-cost strategies for promoting your book—whether you're traditionally published, self-published, or somewhere in between.Known for her Brooklyn-based literary fiction (The El, Brooklyn Roses, Better Than Sisters, and more), Catherine reveals how she’s built her audience through grassroots tactics like bookstore readings with homemade cookies, niche community engagement, strategic media outreach, and tapping into cultural connections to create buzz. Her warm, authentic approach to author promotion makes her a standout in the indie publishing world.In this episode, you'll learn:How to land readings at local bookstores, museums, and niche venuesWhy bringing cookies might be your best marketing tool How to pitch your book to local newspapers, blogs, and online communitiesThe power of connecting your book to cultural or geographic themesTips for writing compelling media pitches and finding “back door” publicity opportunitiesWhy every author—indie or not—needs to take control of their own promotionIf you’ve written a book and want it to actually reach readers, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and real-world advice from an author who’s done it all herself.

In this heartfelt episode of Ready to Be Published, publisher Vinnie Corbo sits down with Yael Adler, author of From Gypsy to Jersey: An Adoption Journey, to talk about her deeply personal experience as an adoptee who successfully found her birthmother — and wrote a powerful book about the journey.Adopted from Romania at age two, Yael shares how her parents always kept the story of her adoption open and honest. But it wasn’t until her 30th birthday that a sudden spark of curiosity, triggered by old documents and life transitions, led her on a quest for answers. With luck, courage, and persistence, she reconnected with her past, uncovered truths about her heritage, and experienced a life-changing reunion — all before the world shut down during the pandemic.The conversation touches on:Growing up adopted and knowing from an early ageHow family support shaped her experienceThe emotional complexity of birth family searchesTrauma, timing, and how the body holds memoryCultural differences and revelations in RomaniaTalking to her adoptive mother about the journeyWhat it means to leave behind a legacy for her own childrenYael also opens up about writing her book while pregnant with her third child — and how telling her story helped bring clarity, healing, and connection.This episode is perfect for listeners who are interested in:Real-life adoption storiesMemoirs of identity, culture, and healingBirth family search journeysWriting personal narratives and publishing your storyAdoptee perspectives and intergenerational legacy

In this episode of Ready to Be Published, publisher Vinnie of Volossal Publishing sits down with author Bob Buchanan for an honest, thought‑provoking conversation about policing, public trust, trauma, and the realities of life behind the badge.Bob, a former Westchester County police officer and EMT, shares firsthand experiences from his 10 years in law enforcement during the 1970s and early 1980s—including emotionally charged arrests, medical emergencies, and the long‑term psychological impact of the job. Together, they explore complex topics such as police training, use of force, public perception, mental health, and why “a bad cop is worse than a bad guy.”The conversation also touches on modern policing challenges, media narratives, community relations, and the importance of humanizing both officers and civilians. Bob reflects on trauma, burnout, and how leaving the force ultimately led him to rediscover himself through creative work and writing.The episode concludes with a discussion of Bob Buchanan’s books published with Volossal Publishing, including The Lunch, They Speak Through Me, and his latest release, I Can’t Find You a Boyfriend… or Your Keys—a blend of humor, insight, and lived experience.This episode is ideal for listeners interested in:True stories from former police officersLaw enforcement and mental healthTrauma, public trust, and accountabilityAuthor interviews and the publishing journeyThoughtful conversations on complex social issues