(or “Is this thing on?”)
A few months ago, I set a date with WXGM Radio Station in Gloucester, Virginia to do an interview with the morning 
host Neal Steele. Back then, the date for the interview seemed too far away to worry about, so I set it aside and focused on other things. I only thought about it again when it came time to send them my bio, my photo, my book’s synopsis, and, of course, the book. (The mailing of the book is a story in itself; ask me about it in person sometime.)
Yesterday, it hit me that the interview was nearly upon me. I was nervous for about 3 seconds until other essential tasks distracted me, and I forgot about it until this morning. B awoke me at 5:00 a.m. (not sure one cup of coffee was adequate to be awake that early) and, after preparations and about 10 seconds of anxiety, we set off into the dark morning.
Traffic around our area can be nightmarish, at times, so we left early enough to ensure I arrived on time for the interview. This morning, at least the other cars kept up a steady pace. It was the rain and wet streets that made the trip a bit of a nail-biter. I’m glad B drove!
At the station, we were befriended by a beautiful grey cat (he looked so much like our boy Smudge!), who kept us company until my time arrived.
Neal made me comfortable right away. His questions kept me thinking and responding so that I didn’t have time to be nervous. A couple of the questions made me think about how best to answer them in the context of the story and its creation. He also gave me a chance to spotlight my editor and my cover designer, so I was happy for that opportunity.
When we finished, Neal sent me a copy of the recording. Click below to hear the whole thing. (It’s about 18 minutes long.) I listened once we got back home and was glad to hear I did okay. Next time, if there is one, maybe I won’t be so stressed over it!
Neal’s been doing these author interviews for some time now, usually for members of the Chesapeake Bay Writers Group. Thanks to Neal for being such a gracious host, to Xtra 99.1 FM for offering writers this opportunity, and to the Chesapeake Bay Writers for opening this door!
Wanna hear it for yourself? Check it out below.
Photo by Jonathan Farber on Unsplash
This was a great interview Drema! I now know how to pronounce your book title and your last name! You sounded clear, had a good pace, and did not sound nervous. I sadly have not read your book. It has nothing to do with you, but more with my focus these days. I haven’t even gotten to my nephew Tony’s short horror stories. I am hoping this focus issue will resolve. I think it is just a matter of doing it. Even if it is 10 pages a night. Either way so so so very proud and happy about what you have accomplished.
Hugs,
Sonia
Thanks, Sonia! That means a lot!