Advertise on podcast: Award-Winning Authors Show

“You are not broken.” Join Lisa M. Umina, award-winning author and CEO of Halo Publishing International, in conversation with author Eugene Z. Bertrand. This episode will only grow more important with time, as we continue challenging the silence and stigma that surround domestic violence. Eugene is here to offer voice, strength, and hope to anyone who needs to know they’re not alone. Don’t miss this powerful dialogue—and be sure to check out Eugene’s new novel, "Resilience".

This year, authors and expats Lisa M. Umina and Kirsten Harty contributed to an anthology that brought together women from around the world who share one thing in common: they left their homes, their countries, and the security those offered to embark on a new life journey in Mexico City, where they found the courage to start over. Along the way, they found each other.Listen to these courageous women discuss life after the move and the powerful experience of capturing that transformation in a book that has earned praise, awards, and recognition.

Are you being seen? Are the efforts in your career being amplified to their fullest potential? Join authors Janet Wise and Lisa M. Umina for a conversation about opportunity, the evolving work landscape, and the possibilities that visibility can unlock once you understand the core principles captured in Janet’s new book, “The Visibility Effect”. This is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Publisher and award-winning author Lisa M. Umina sits down with Manuel Ruiz, CFP®, to discuss his powerful journey from Jersey City to Wall Street and the inspiration behind his book Why Not Me? Manuel shares the key insights that helped him transform his own financial future and guide hundreds of families toward building lasting generational wealth. Together, they explore the psychology behind money, the “Four Seasons of Wealth” approach, and the crucial questions that can change the way you think about your financial destiny. Inspiring, practical, and accessible—this conversation offers a fresh perspective on creating a legacy that lasts.

How does a love of music ignite the passion to create, not just melodies, but stories that encourage others to embrace their own creativity without shame or fear of judgment? Author and musician Adriana Bravo has pursued her art with courage, even while navigating the obstacles of growing up as a Filipino woman in a predominantly white neighborhood. In this episode, Lisa M. Umina sits down with Adriana to explore her inspirations, intentions, and the challenges that have shaped her fearless path from musician to children’s author.

Writing a story can seem effortless once it’s printed, bound in a beautiful cover, filled with sweetness, meaning, and purpose. But what is it really like to imagine a story from nothing—wrestling with it, nearly abandoning it at times, and then finding the strength to keep going? In this episode, author Elliot A. Herland opens up to Lisa about the honest truth behind his process of writing two beautiful children’s books alongside his daughters. He shares how he emerged from that struggle with stories that teach children how to love, how to live fully, and how to care for themselves with pride and joy. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation—or Elliot A. Herland’s books: "The Tree of Seven Sisters" and "The Cloud Story."

What if the legacy isn’t left by the parents, but by the child? In this emotional and inspiring episode, publisher and award-winning author Lisa M. Umina speaks with Clarita Sierra about her late son, Alex. Alex’s fight to rebuild his life away from drugs became more than a struggle, it became a gift. His words, along with the voices of family and friends, tell a powerful story of resilience, love, and the realities of addiction. Clarita, a therapist with a background in psychology and family therapy, shares how writing her book after Alex’s passing became a path to healing, not just for herself, but for others who may be facing similar struggles. Together, she and Lisa explore how storytelling can transform grief into hope and open the door to understanding addiction in a deeper, more compassionate way.

When children hear the word kindness, do they really understand what it means? In this episode, publisher and author Lisa M. Umina welcomes Tracey Roegiers, a retired special education teacher turned children’s author, for a candid talk that moves far beyond the pages of her debut book, "The Paper Chain of Kindness." Tracey shares how her book grew from her decades in the classroom, where she witnessed how children often need help translating big concepts like kindness into actions they can see and feel. She and Lisa discuss how playful tools, like the classroom kindness chain featured in her book, can help bridge that gap in understanding and turn empathy into something real.

What if grief didn’t mark an ending—but a transformation? In this heartfelt and soul-stirring conversation, publisher Lisa M. Umina sits down with author, healer, and intuitive guide Gina Kitzmiller to explore her memoir, "Soul Walk: The Unexpected Gifts of Grief and Connection to Those in Spirit." "Soul Walk" is a tender, courageous book about love that endures beyond the veil, and the powerful discoveries waiting on the other side of loss. Whether you’re navigating grief or seeking deeper connection, this episode offers hope, inspiration, and the reminder that we are never truly alone.

Wisdom can be found everywhere—if you're paying attention. Whether it's in nature, music, or the quiet moments with yourself, insight often comes when we choose to listen. Author and musician Beth Zare knows this intimately. Join author and publisher Lisa M. Umina for a heartfelt conversation with Beth as they explore themes of inspiration, renewal, politics, and creative reconnection. Together, they trace the winding path of a writer and musician committed to creating art that truly matters. You'll also hear all about Beth’s new book, Pearl’s Wisdom—a deeply personal collection of life lessons and reflections drawn from her own journey. Tune in for an honest and uplifting dialogue about creativity, purpose, and the everyday sources of wisdom all around us.

What is love, really? And how do you know when you've found the one? In this heartfelt and honest episode, Lisa M. Umina sits down with debut author and environmental attorney Heidi B. Friedman for a cozy, reflective chat on one of life's biggest questions: love. From surviving 104 dates over ten years to finally meeting her true partner, Heidi shares the inspiration and personal journey behind her book Love Lessons: 104 Dates and the Stories that Led Me to True Love. Part research project, part memoir, Love Lessons is filled with real stories, practical wisdom, and the kinds of questions we all wrestle with—whether we're single, searching, or trying again. Heidi talks candidly about dating, resilience, motherhood, and finding joy in the chaos. Grab a glass of wine, get cozy, and join us for a conversation that’s funny, vulnerable, and full of heart.

How did "The Picture Island" come to be? Are its characters secretly shaped by music, musical theater, and screenwriting? Join Lisa Umina in conversation with author and musician Michael S. Manley as they dive deep into his multifaceted career and explore how his artistic background influences his writing. Don’t miss out on future plans, exciting collaborations, and a wealth of insights into the life of a musician and storyteller.

As Autism Awareness Month winds down, it’s the perfect moment to reflect: How can literature deepen our understanding of autism? And what role can authors play in shaping that conversation? In this heartfelt episode, Lisa Umina sits down with author and advocate Lori DeMonia to discuss her two children's books, "Love for Logan" and "Leah's Voice"—touching stories that explore autism through the eyes of kids and the everyday experiences of those around them. Lori writes with heart and purpose, creating stories that foster empathy, understanding, and inclusion. Join the conversation and discover how storytelling can be a powerful tool for awareness and change.

What does it take to embark on a nine-book journey as an author? As you look back, what lessons stand out? Join this candid conversation between Lisa Umina and Lisa Cassman, whose latest release is the children’s book “Our Butterfly Walk.” As seasoned authors, Lisa and Lisa share their insights on publishing, the challenges and efforts that come with being a writer, and—most importantly—why the struggle is always worth it when you have the privilege of sharing your words with the world. Tune in now!

What drives author Neetu Kaur Deol Jhaj to write? Who does she write for? In this episode, Lisa Umina dives into “I Shine as Bright as a Firefly”—a heartfelt book about self-love, acceptance, and gratitude. Neetu shares how her children inspire her storytelling. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on finding belonging, embracing our true selves, and empowering the next generation!