It's been one whole year since If I Don't Laugh, I'll Cry made its way into the world, and today, we're celebrating! In this special anniversary episode, I'm reflecting on the journey of writing and releasing this book- what it was like to put my story on paper, the emotional highs and lows, and the incredible messages from readers that have reminded me why I wrote it in the first place.

Whether you've read the book or are just hearing about it for the first time, I hope this episode makes you laugh, reflect, and feel a little less alone in your own beautiful mess.

Thank you for being part of this journey with me!

0:47 – Intro

• My 1-year bookaversery! • A big thank you to my readers

3:06 – Behind The Pages

• What was it really like to write a book? • The cathartic and terrifying writing process • Reader messages that moved me

5:33 – Embracing The Messy & Real

• Offering presence, perspective and hope • The anticipation leading up to release day • Honoring my mom's storytelling

11:08 – Future Plans & Final Thoughts

• Is another book on the horizon? • Staying true to my voice

FEATURED QUOTES

"One of the goals that I had in this book is to just make someone feel seen, make you feel seen, to know that your mess is not too much for God- that you're not too far gone."

"This year taught me that this story, my story, this book, didn't end with the last chapter. It has kept going in the conversations, in the tears that were shed at book signings, in the emails from strangers, in the quiet mornings on the farm, when I remember why I wrote it."

"There's something really beautiful that happens when you let people see the cracks. Because what happens is light gets in, and you'll be able to watch other people shine too."