Finish the Damn Book Podcast
Finish the Damn Book is the podcast for aspiring authors who are done with procrastination, perfectionism, and self-doubt—and ready to finally write, publish, and share their story with the world.
Hosted by Susie Schaefer, publishing expert, book doula, and founder of Finish the Book Publishing, this show is your no-fluff, heart-forward guide through the emotional, spiritual, and tactical journey of becoming an author.
In each episode, you’ll hear from authors who’ve overcome real-life challenges—from PTSD and imposter syndrome to burnout and fear of being seen—and discover how they found the courage to finish their books. You’ll also learn insider tips from editors, designers, and publishing professionals on everything from writing routines to cover design, independent publishing, author branding, and the latest in publishing tech.
Whether you’re writing a legacy memoir, building a business brand, or turning pain into purpose, this podcast will give you the support, tools, and inspiration you need to finish the damn book.
Subscribe now—and every week, one lucky listener who leaves a review on Apple Podcasts will be entered to win a $25,000 VIP Publishing Day with Susie!
Finish the Damn Book Podcast
Letters of Love & Legacy: Writing Through Grief with Esthela Nunez Franco
In this deeply moving episode of Finish the Damn Book, host Susie Schaefer sits down with author, artist, and advocate Esthela Nunez Franco, whose memoir Seven Stories for My Father: Letters of Love and Legacy honors the life and wisdom of her late father.
Esthela shares her powerful journey of immigrating from Mexico at age 10, discovering her voice through writing, and learning how storytelling can help us process grief, reconnect with our roots, and preserve the memories that matter most. Together, she and Susie explore the healing power of creativity, intuition, and faith—and how finishing a book can become an act of love and legacy.
You’ll also hear Esthela’s reflections on health advocacy, spiritual synchronicities, and the lessons she learned about embracing both life and death with courage and grace.
Learn more about Esthela’s work at www.esthelanunezfranco.com
Explore Susie’s programs to help you bring your story to life at www.finishthedamnbookpodcast.com