Interview With Author Tyler Upfield
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a first-time author, dad, and 33-year-old gamer who took his time growing up. I used to be the guy whose mom booked his own medical appointments, but becoming a dad flipped everything. The birth of my baby daughter turned my world upside down in the best way, and writing Girl Dad Energy Unleashed became my way of figuring out this new level of life. I hope the message gets out to other new girl dads that they can figure this out, too. It’s my debut book, and definitely not the last.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Girl Dad Energy Unleashed was inspired by real moments of panic, pride, and diaper-covered chaos. I wanted to give new dads something that wasn’t a dry manual, something honest, funny, and grounded in real life, yet also incorporating some research-based facts and practical tools that are truly helpful. It’s the book I wish I had when my daughter was born, written from the heart of a millennial dad trying to level up. My personal growth journey through becoming a dad truly inspired me to write this book, as I had never known myself as someone who could take responsibility.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write during nap time with a coffee that’s gone cold three times. My notes app resembles a therapy session combined with a stand-up routine. Inspiration usually hits between bottle prep and bedtime battles.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’ve been inspired by modern nonfiction writers who mix humor with heart. Authors like Mark Manson (The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck*, Everything Is Fcked*) and Matthew McConaughey (Greenlights). I love how they make self-growth feel real, unpolished, and relatable. McConaughey’s blend of memoir and self-help especially resonated with me, and I’ve taken that approach on board in my own writing.
What are you working on now?
I’m actually trying to nudge my wife to write something next! I even left a little teaser about it at the end of my book (without telling her first). Probably a bit rough, I know.
As for me, I’m working on a follow-up project that dives deeper into emotional intelligence for dads. Something like a “next-level parenting reboot.” I’m also developing a series of one-page tools and printable guides for new parents who don’t have time to read full chapters but still want real, actionable advice.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
TikTok has been outstanding for connecting with real parents. I’ve received thousands of views and a steady stream of traffic directed to my Amazon listing. I also love using AwesomeGang, BooksyBuzz, and Book Bounty, along with a mix of paid and free newsletter sites for promo bursts, reviews and downloads.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Start messy and refine later. Your first draft just needs to exist—not be perfect. Be vulnerable; that’s what readers connect with most. Don’t wait for permission; just publish, learn, and adjust in real-time. Try new marketing methods and refine those that work for you. And remember, ads might not be profitable at first, but they’re an investment in visibility that helps you build early momentum.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Your kid doesn’t need a perfect dad. Just one who keeps showing up.” That line stuck with me, and it applies to parenting and writing. Just keep showing up and adding layers consistently, and your knowledge and results will snowball over time.
What are you reading now?
I’m reading Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey and Atomic Habits by James Clear. Both fuel my personal growth and help me balance chaos with calm.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Expanding Girl Dad Energy into a series of practical resources and journals for parents. I’d also love to write from the perspective of the mom next, because every parenting story has two sides. This is where my wife, ahem, comes in!
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?
• Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey
• The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* by Mark Manson
• Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins
• Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak—for reading to my daughter if she washed up with me.
Author Websites and Profiles
Tyler Upfield’s Social Media Links
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