Interview With Entrepreneur and A Journey of Riches ’s CEO, John Spender

1. Hello John, Can you please tell us a bit about yourself?

Hi, it’s a pleasure to be here. I’m John Spender, the CEO of A Journey of Riches, a dynamic and innovative company in the world of non-fiction books, especially multi-author books. I’ve always had a passion for storytelling and helping authors bring their visions to life.

Over the years, I’ve worked with countless talented writers and have been fortunate enough to be a part of their journeys to success. A Journey of Riches is dedicated to providing authors with the support and resources they need to thrive in the ever-changing publishing landscape, and I’m excited to share more about our vision and accomplishments with you today.

2. What are your focus areas, and why?

At our small publishing house, our primary focus is on creating and nurturing collaborative, multi-author books. We believe in the power of collective creativity and the diverse voices that can be brought together in a single volume.

Our emphasis on this niche is driven by several key reasons. Firstly, multi-author books allow us to offer readers a rich tapestry of perspectives, genres, and writing styles within a single publication, catering to a broader audience.

Secondly, they provide a platform for emerging authors to gain exposure and collaborate with established writers, fostering a supportive community within the memoir world.

Thirdly, the collaborative nature of these projects often results in innovative and unique storytelling, making our books stand out in a competitive market.

Lastly, our commitment to multi-author books aligns with our mission to celebrate diversity and inclusivity in literature by bringing together authors from various backgrounds and experiences, enriching the reading experience for all.

In essence, our focus areas revolve around the belief that when authors join forces, the possibilities for storytelling are endless, and our readers benefit from this dynamic synergy.

3. As an author, what is it that motivates and drives you?

As an author, what motivates and drives me is the boundless power of storytelling. Writing allows me to explore the depths of human emotions, imagination, and creativity. The knowledge that my words have the potential to inspire, entertain, educate, or even comfort someone is a profound motivator.

Furthermore, the journey of writing itself is a source of motivation. The process of research, writing, editing, and revising is a constant challenge that keeps me engaged and striving for improvement. Each completed work represents a personal and artistic achievement.

Additionally, the connection with readers is incredibly motivating. Hearing from readers who have been moved by or affected by my experiences is deeply rewarding. Knowing that my words have the ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures is a powerful driving force.

Ultimately, writing is a passion that fuels my creativity, curiosity, and desire to make a positive impact on the world through storytelling. It’s the joy of creating something meaningful and the hope that my words can leave a lasting impression that drives me as an author.

4. Tell us about your new book titled “Discover Your Purpose : A Journey of Riches.”

I’m delighted to introduce our latest multi-author book, titled “Discover Your Purpose: A Journey of Riches.” This book is a collaborative effort that brings together a diverse group of authors, each sharing their unique perspectives and insights on the profound topic of discovering one’s purpose in life.

“Discover Your Purpose: A Journey of Riches” is a compelling anthology that explores the timeless question of why we are here and what gives our lives meaning. In this book, readers will find a rich tapestry of personal stories, wisdom, and practical advice from authors who have embarked on their own journeys of self-discovery and purpose.

The book is structured to guide readers through a transformative exploration of their own purpose. It covers various aspects of this profound quest, including self-awareness, passion, resilience, and the impact of purpose on our relationships and communities. Each chapter offers a unique perspective and valuable tools to help readers on their own journeys of self-discovery.

What sets “Discover Your Purpose: A Journey of Riches” apart is its emphasis on the power of collaboration. Our authors, who come from diverse backgrounds and experiences, have come together to create a book that is both inspirational and practical. Whether you’re seeking clarity on your life’s purpose or simply looking for a source of motivation and guidance, this book is designed to be a valuable companion on your path to a more purposeful and fulfilling life.

We believe that the collective wisdom and diverse voices within this anthology will resonate with readers, providing them with the inspiration and insights they need to embark on their own journey of self-discovery and ultimately lead a richer, more purposeful life. “Discover Your Purpose: A Journey of Riches” is not just a book; it’s an invitation to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

5. Where do you think the book is making an impact?

“Discover Your Purpose: A Journey of Riches” is making a significant impact in several key areas:

• Personal Development: The book serves as a valuable resource for individuals seeking personal growth and self-discovery. It offers insights, stories, and practical advice that empower readers to explore their own life purposes and take meaningful steps towards a more fulfilling existence.
• Inspiration and Motivation: Many readers have found inspiration and motivation within the pages of this book. The stories and experiences shared by the authors inspire readers to overcome obstacles, set meaningful goals, and pursue their passions with renewed vigor.
• Community and Connection: The book fosters a sense of community among its readers. It provides a platform for people with similar aspirations to connect, share their own stories, and support each other in their journeys of self-discovery and purpose.
• Professional and Academic Settings: “Discover Your Purpose: A Journey of Riches” has found its way into professional and academic environments. It is used in workshops, seminars, and educational programs to facilitate discussions on personal development, goal-setting, and the importance of purpose-driven living.
• Therapeutic and Counseling Practices: Therapists and counselors have integrated the book into their practices to help clients explore their life purposes and work through personal challenges. The stories and insights serve as valuable tools for facilitating discussions on meaning and fulfillment.
• Online Communities and Social Media: The book has generated discussions and conversations on various online platforms and social media channels. Readers often share their favorite passages, insights, and personal experiences, creating a ripple effect of inspiration and engagement.
• Philanthropic Endeavours: All profits from Amazon are going to Jewel’s children’s home, in the north eastern part of the island, in the remote hills. With the last book generating enough money to feed the entire orphanage of 38 kids and five caretakers for a month.
• Overall, the impact of this book extends across various aspects of personal and professional life. It resonates with individuals seeking meaning, purpose, and personal growth, while also finding its place in educational, therapeutic, and community settings where it serves as a catalyst for positive change and reflection. The diverse voices and stories within the book make it a versatile tool for those on a journey of self-discovery and fulfillment.

6. What inspired you to write this book? And why feature other authors?

The inspiration behind creating “Discover Your Purpose: A Journey of Riches” was born from a profound belief in the transformative power of storytelling and the collective wisdom of diverse voices.

As the CEO of our small publishing house, my motivation was not to write the book personally but to provide a platform for authors to share their unique perspectives and experiences on the timeless quest for purpose in life. I did, however, write the last chapter, and I have contributed to all 33 volumes to date.

We featured other authors because we recognized that every journey to self-discovery is unique, and by bringing together a diverse group of writers, we can offer readers a rich tapestry of insights, stories, and guidance. This collaborative approach not only enriches the reading experience but also empowers emerging authors, fosters a sense of community among writers, and ultimately serves as a source of inspiration and guidance for our readers on their own journeys of self-discovery and fulfillment.

7. Describe the three biggest challenges you faced during the writing of this book.

During the creation of “Discover Your Purpose: A Journey of Riches,” several challenges emerged. Firstly, coordinating the contributions of multiple authors while maintaining a cohesive narrative and thematic consistency presented a significant challenge.

Ensuring that each chapter seamlessly flowed into the next and that the diverse voices harmonized to deliver a unified message demanded meticulous editing. Secondly, the process of guiding authors to share their deeply personal stories and insights on the topic of purpose required a delicate balance of support and respect for their unique experiences.

Lastly, the challenge of managing timelines and deadlines across multiple authors in different time zones globally with varying schedules and commitments was a logistical hurdle. However, despite these challenges, the collaborative spirit and shared commitment to our mission prevailed, resulting in a book that we are immensely proud of—a testament to the resilience and determination of our talented authors and dedicated publishing team.

8. What is the “one word” advice you will give to our readers when it comes to succeeding in life?

If I were to offer one word of advice to our readers on succeeding in life, it would be “perseverance.” Success often involves facing obstacles, setbacks, and challenges along the way. Perseverance is the unwavering determination to continue pursuing your goals, even when the path is difficult or uncertain.

It’s about staying committed to your dreams, learning from failures, adapting to change, and persisting in the face of adversity. With perseverance, you not only overcome obstacles but also grow stronger, gaining the resilience needed to achieve your aspirations and lead a fulfilling life.

9. What are you most excited about at the moment?

One particular area of excitement is the intersection of our books and the release of our first documentary about the gift of adversity, featuring Jack Canfield, Dr. John Demartini, Rev. Micheal Beckwith, and many more!

Creating a documentary based on our book series is an incredibly exciting prospect. It offers a unique opportunity to bring the stories and messages within our books to life in a visually compelling and immersive way. Documentaries have the power to reach a broader audience and convey the essence of our multi-author books in a different medium.

Additionally, a documentary can serve as a valuable educational tool, inspiring discussions on topics related to the benefits of adversity, personal growth, and the creative process. It has the potential to reach audiences who may not typically engage with traditional books, making the messages of our series more accessible to a wider demographic.

I’m excited about our ongoing efforts to amplify underrepresented voices and provide a platform for authors from diverse backgrounds to share their stories. It’s a meaningful step towards enriching the memoir landscape and reflecting the diverse world we live in.

Ultimately, the future of publishing is filled with exciting possibilities, and I’m eager to continue collaborating with talented authors, embracing new technologies, and pushing the boundaries of storytelling to create meaningful and memorable reading experiences for our audience.

10. The last word or final thoughts?

I’d like to express my gratitude for this insightful conversation. Whether it’s through our collaborative book projects, the exploration of new storytelling mediums like documentaries, or our commitment to diversity and inclusion in literature, our journey in the world of publishing is guided by a passion for storytelling and a belief in the transformative power of words.

As we continue to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of publishing, our commitment remains unwavering: to inspire, educate, and connect with readers while providing a platform for authors to shine. Thank you for your interest and support, and I look forward to the exciting adventures that lie ahead.