In this heartwarming episode of Ready to Be Published, publisher Vinnie Corbo welcomes Claire Clement and Judy Aiston, co-authors of The Adventures of Molly the Beagle, a beautifully illustrated children’s book based on the true story of a mischievous, lovable rescue dog.

More than just a lighthearted story, this episode explores how two retired respiratory therapists—who worked on the front lines during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic—used their lifelong friendship and creative talents to bring Molly’s adventures to life. Claire penned the story, inspired by her real-life beagle’s daring escapes, and Judy returned to her artistic roots to illustrate the book—using an iPad, a new skillset, and lots of determination.

They discuss:

• Their 20+ year friendship and bond forged in healthcare
• How Molly inspired a story of adventure, curiosity, and second chances
• Judy’s journey from graphic artist and professional clown to digital illustrator
• How Volossal Publishing gave them creative freedom, including post-publication revisions
• Claire’s emotional dedication to her late son, a dog lover who helped adopt Molly
• Tips for new authors, promoting children’s books locally, and donating to libraries and hospitals

From laughter over pandemic mask mishaps to unexpected connections with other “Molly” owners, this episode celebrates creativity, resilience, and the power of storytelling to honor loved ones and uplift children.

Perfect For Listeners Who Love:

• Uplifting origin stories behind children’s books
• Rescue dog stories
• Author and illustrator collaborations
• Women creatives and post-retirement reinventions
• Emotional legacy and healing through art
• Independent publishing and creative control

Author A.R. Baumann joins Vinnie Corbo in the Volossal Publishing studio for an intimate and unscripted conversation about her gritty and beloved character, Nick Noelle. From the genesis of the first two novels—Under a Cloud of Rain and Thicker Than Blood—to the upcoming third installment, this episode dives into the inspirations, personal experiences, and family influences that shaped Nick’s complex world.

A.R. shares candid stories of growing up with a charismatic, hard-edged father, reflects on past relationships that mirror her fictional detective, and explores how she weaves herself—flaws and all—into Nick's voice. From dark addictions to secret codes of honor, Nick Noelle is more than a character; he's the man you know, the man you loved, or the man you once were.

If you’re curious about character-driven storytelling, writing flawed heroes, or building a series with emotional depth and streetwise grit, this is the episode for you.

In this episode of Ready to Be Published, publisher Vinnie Corbo talks with longtime Volossal author Catherine Gigante-Brown, a true DIY marketing powerhouse. Catherine shares practical, creative, and low-cost strategies for promoting your book—whether you're traditionally published, self-published, or somewhere in between.

Known for her Brooklyn-based literary fiction (The El, Brooklyn Roses, Better Than Sisters, and more), Catherine reveals how she’s built her audience through grassroots tactics like bookstore readings with homemade cookies, niche community engagement, strategic media outreach, and tapping into cultural connections to create buzz. Her warm, authentic approach to author promotion makes her a standout in the indie publishing world.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How to land readings at local bookstores, museums, and niche venues
• Why bringing cookies might be your best marketing tool
• How to pitch your book to local newspapers, blogs, and online communities
• The power of connecting your book to cultural or geographic themes
• Tips for writing compelling media pitches and finding “back door” publicity opportunities
• Why every author—indie or not—needs to take control of their own promotion

If you’ve written a book and want it to actually reach readers, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and real-world advice from an author who’s done it all herself.