Interview With Author Krista Bragg
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve written two nonfiction books, with another one on the way, as well as a textbook chapter and a handful of articles in peer-reviewed journals and health and fitness publications. For me, writing has always been more than just putting words on a page. It’s my way of connecting ideas and making topics that can feel overwhelming or confusing a little easier to understand.
I also publish fiction under a pen name, a creative avenue to explore relationships and all the messy, human parts of storytelling. Whether I’m breaking down a complex subject or creating a fictional world, my goal is the same: to connect with readers and leave them with something that stays with them after the last page.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is Startup Guide to U.S. Healthcare. Over the years I’ve met incredibly bright people with innovative ideas who never made it to action simply because they didn’t understand the healthcare system, the key stakeholders, or the hurdles of starting a company. I wanted to change that. Drawing on my many years leading insurance and healthcare organizations, I turned those lessons into a practical resource.
It began as a simple idea for a quick reference guide, but with thoughtful feedback it grew into something much more comprehensive — over 700 pages! To my relief, the response has been very positive, with readers saying the depth and detail make it truly useful.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I think my most unusual writing habit is working on two books at once, usually one nonfiction and one fiction. Switching between them uses different parts of my brain, and I find that rejuvenating. It is easy to become so absorbed in writing that I can type all day, only pausing when my husband reminds me to eat or drink. I’m sure other writers can relate to that.
Much of my writing draws from real life. My nonfiction books are built around real questions from real people and actual events. In my fiction, I sometimes catch myself analyzing everyday moments like a sound, a look, or a small gesture and imagining how I would translate them into words on the page.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Too numerous to list, I love to read most genres and am a life long learner.
What are you working on now?
Right now, I’m working on a book for everyday readers called Health Insurance Made Simple. Health insurance is so complex that even healthcare providers struggle to make sense of it at times. My goal is to create a clear, practical guide that explains how it really works and offers straightforward tips for navigating tricky processes like enrollment, insurance denials, and finding ways to save money.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Sites like Awesome Gang, my own social media networks
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Writing and publishing a book is often harder than people expect. It takes real commitment and having support from family and friends makes the journey easier. The work of turning ideas in your head into words that others can understand is challenging, but the reward of seeing your book come to life is worth every bit of effort.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write first, edit later. Don’t let perfectionism stop the flow of ideas. Get the words down first, then shape them.
Write about what you know and just “be you”. Don’t psych yourself out by thinking other authors are so much better. They are not you and don’t have your experiences, your style, your perspectives. There is only one of you.
What are you reading now?
I’m cycling through fantasy books and books discussing technology and AI
What’s next for you as a writer?
Next for me as a writer is finishing my consumer-focused book about health insurance and completing my current fiction series. Beyond that, I’ll see where the journey takes me, I’m percolating on a few ideas. I’m fortunate to have some podcasts scheduled and continue to work with startup companies through my consulting business. I’ll keep drawing from real life for inspiration — it always seems to spark the next project.
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?
If I were stranded on a desert island, I would bring The Lord of the Rings series by J.R.R. Tolkien, because the writing is so rich and layered that I discover something new every time I return to it. I’d also take a picture book of my family, because no story matters more than theirs.
And for practicality, I’d want a survival guide — ideally one called “How to Survive on a Desert Island”. Since I haven’t found that book yet, maybe one of you can get started writing it?
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