The Story Behind the Story

What does it really take to write a book… and build a message people connect with?

In this episode of The Back Office, I sit down with author, storyteller, and entrepreneur Shelby Gardner to talk about the unseen side of authorship, vulnerability, branding, and creating something meaningful in public.

Shelby recently released her book, Lily Pads: remembering, reclaiming, & tracing back to where Jesus has always been—a deeply personal and interactive heart study designed to help readers revisit their stories and discover where Jesus has been present all along.

But this conversation goes far beyond the pages of a book. We talk about the emotional weight of writing honestly, the discipline it takes to finish creative work, the business side of being an author, building an authentic brand online, and what it looks like to create while balancing family, entrepreneurship, and faith.

Whether you’re a writer, entrepreneur, creator, or simply someone trying to build something meaningful, this conversation offers both encouragement and practical insight into the process behind the product.

Show Notes

Guest: Shelby Gardner

Business: Author of Lily Pads, Writer of The Lily Letters

Shelby Gardner is the author of Lily Pads: remembering, reclaiming, & tracing back to where Jesus has always been, writer of The Lily Letters, entrepreneur, storyteller, wife, mom, and someone who has built a platform rooted in vulnerability, honesty, and faith.

Learn More:

https://shelbygardner.com/

Book: Lily Pads: remembering, reclaiming, & tracing back to where Jesus has always been

Newsletter: The Lily Letters

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