Interview With Author Heather Frederick
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a first-generation college student who graduated with a B.A. from San Diego State University and Ph.D. in Psychology from Brandeis University. An expert in doctoral education, I host the Happy Doc Student podcast and recently published The Happy Doc Student Handbook: 7 Steps to Graduating with your Sanity, Health, and Relationships Intact. When I’m not working on my mission to change the way doctoral education is delivered and experienced (by students, faculty, and administrators) you’ll find me walking outside barefoot, dancing to live music (usually 80’s tunes), dreaming about raising Nigerian dwarf goats, and making memories with her favorite people.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My book, The Happy Doc Student Handbook: 7 Steps to Graduating with your Sanity, Health, and Relationships Intact, was inspired by a request from my podcast audience. Most people don’t know that 50% of those who start a doctoral program don’t finish! That was the catalyst for my podcast and when that launched in December 2020 people started asking for a book that would give them the info they need at their fingertips. Alas, the idea for the book was planted and it launched on February 22, 2022.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Unless writing before the world gets up and using a pen and paper counts as unusual, then no.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
The authors who have influenced how I live my life: Maureen St. Germain, Paulo Coelho, Eckhart Tolle, Louis Hay…Those who entertain me: Isabelle Allende and Joyce Carol Oates.
What are you working on now?
Right now I am working on marketing my book and building my podcast while I explore possibly penning something about preparing for death (due to recent losses) and/or taking my doctoral student-specific book and writing it for the masses (by request).
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
So far – word of mouth.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
This is a marathon, not a sprint!
You will get lots of feedback – this podcast on how to feel GOOD about feedback might be useful: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1547113/8063165And to write well, you need to take care of yourself! If you struggle with putting your self-care needs FIRST check out this podcast on how to unleash your genius:https://www.buzzsprout.com/1547113/6988105
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Remember that energy goes where attention flows.
What are you reading now?
The Beginner’s Guide to the End.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Promoting my current book and thinking about future ones.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
A very thick journal and three highly recommended books that I haven’t read yet!
Author Websites and Profiles
Heather Frederick Amazon Profile
Heather Frederick’s Social Media Links