Heidi Tucker lives in Cave Creek, Arizona.
What are some names of the books or other media you have created?
3 award-winning nonfiction inspirational books: The Secret Keepers, Servie’s Song, and Finding Hope in the Journey
What inspired you to become a creator of media?
I had a dream and saw my hands holding a book and knew it was mine. A voice told me to write the book. I knew it was a calling from Heavenly Father, so I summoned all the courage and faith I could and wrote Finding Hope in the Journey. I believe the other two books are callings as well. These two individuals, whose true stories I wrote, came directly into my path. I knew I was called to write their stories. I think of this journey as a mission to bring light and hope to the world.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Winning “Best Inspirational” and “Book of the Year” awards for my books is such an honor. But the true highlights come when readers contact me to tell me how my books have changed their lives. That’s why I continue to write.
What was the best advice you’ve ever been given in your creative journey?
A copy editor is worth every cent. I can submit my best manuscript, but after a good copy editor’s review and input, it’s even better.
What advice do you have for someone just starting out in your field?
You’re going to hear the word NO over and over again. Push through all the negativity or find another door. Writing and actually completing a book takes grit. Focus on your passion for the project and don’t let the world tear you down.
What keeps you inspired in your daily creative work?
Whether I’m filming for my YouTube channel, posting on social media, speaking at a conference, or writing a new book, the mission is the same: to bring light and hope to the world. My work is viewed by both members of our church and those of other religions. It is my way of serving as a missionary. What inspires me to keep going is the feedback from individuals. Their emails and comments remind me why I’m doing this and it propels me forward to the next project.
What would you like others to know about you or your creative process?
I call it my writing cave. I have to dedicate a period of time each day to solely focus on my project. I silence all emails and phone calls and listen to inspirational music while I write my books. I’m most creative in the morning or late at night, so I schedule writing during those times if possible. I kick-off every writing session with a prayer of gratitude for my gift of writing and to “feel” the story enough that my words will inspire others.
In what ways do you feel you have been able to be a voice for good in your creative pursuits?
I believe every story not only teaches a gospel principle but can make the reader FEEL it. I’m drawn to true stories about people who have risen up from the ashes from really difficult struggles and tragedy. Their relentless perseverance and ability to cling to faith motivates all of us to move forward in our own lives. We can ALL do hard things and reading someone else’s story inspires us to stand up and take another step. Their stories become ours—the details are just different.
If you want your spotlight to link to your website or any of your social media platforms, include the URLs here.
Website: https://www.thepickledsunflower.com
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9iNhtoorcGrOSvBn6iJ2jg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heidi.tucker.10
