21: Tips for Indie Memoirists with Kristin Duncombe

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Content warning: This episode contains discussions of childhood sexual abuse. If this topic is difficult for you, please take care of yourself. Resources are available if you need support.

Shonda Ramsey interviews Kristin Duncombe, an American psychotherapist and author living in Paris. Kristin discusses her journey through various countries due to her father's Foreign Service career, her marriage to an Argentinian doctor, and her experiences as a "trailing spouse." She shares her three books: "Trailing," "Five Flights Up," and "Object," the latter detailing her childhood trauma. Kristin emphasizes the challenges of balancing her therapy practice with writing, the benefits of self-publishing, and her vision for a jewelry line promoting self-empowerment. She advises aspiring authors to consider self-publishing over traditional routes.

Connect with Kristin Here:

Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristin_louise_duncombe

Website: www.Kristinduncombe.com

Kristin’s Letter to You:

Dear Indie Author, don’t ever be ashamed that you published your own work, and kindly correct anyone who refers to it as “vanity” publishing. Tell them that if they don’t want to say “self-publishing” they can say “courageously-publishing” or “empowerment-publishing” or self-actualization-publishing.” The traditional publishing industry is an imperfect institution that, indeed, ushers many wonderful books in to the world at the same time it prevents many wonderful voices from being heard. If you have been told “no” by the traditional pub industry, or you have given up on even trying, producing your own book is the ultimate act of empowerment. It can be scary at times, and a lot of work, but it is a great testament to your belief in your story and your incredible creative bravery to proceed without the permission of the gatekeepers. You are amazing for persevering!