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In this illuminating episode of The Get Unhooked Podcast, Jason Combs interviews his mentor and "book whisperer" Bridget Cook-Burch about transforming personal experiences into powerful published works. As a New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author, Bridget reveals the process of creating transformational books—from initial concept to final publication—while Jason shares insights from his own journey writing "Unhooked."

Episode Highlights

[04:01] Jason reflects on the various motivations behind writing a book, from professional credibility to changing lives

[08:05] Bridget explains that great storytelling requires vulnerability: "In the darkness often lies the seeds of your greatest glory"

[13:27] The critical importance of creating a timeline to see patterns and meaning in your life experiences

[15:31] The powerful shift from writing for yourself to writing specifically for your readers

[19:11] Bridget shares how author Melissa Moore wrote for one specific "avatar" yet reached countless others

[32:05] Winston Churchill's quote about writing being a journey from "toy" to "tyrant" that you eventually "fling to the public"

[44:01] Jason reveals how his book "Unhooked" helped parents who lost their son to an overdose find peace

[51:33] The origin story behind Bridget's Inspired Writers Retreat and her promise to help others tell their stories

Writing for Your Avatar: The One Person Who Needs

Your Message

A critical shift occurs when writers move beyond self-expression to focus on serving readers. Jason describes his own breakthrough when reading "Millionaire Messenger" by Brendan Burchard:

The Hero's Journey Framework

Both Jason and Bridget reference Joseph Campbell's Hero's Journey as an essential structure for transformation stories.

The Writing Timeline: A Churchill-Worthy Warning

For those expecting a quick process, Winston Churchill's quote offers sobering perspective:

"To begin with, it's a toy, then an amusement, then it becomes a mistress, then it becomes a master, and then it becomes a tyrant. And in the last stage, just as you were about to be reconciled to your servitude, you kill the monster and fling him to the public."

Jason candidly shares that his book appeared on his vision board for ten consecutive years before publication. Rather than being discouraging, this timeline allowed for deeper insights and experiences to inform the work.

Action Steps for Writers

Create a personal timeline to identify patterns and meaning in your experiences

Identify your specific "avatar"—the one person who needs your message most

Watch "Finding Joe" documentary to understand the hero's journey framework

Consider reading "Aspire" by Kevin Hall for an example of layered storytelling

Start with vulnerability rather than trying to appear perfect

Begin writing sessions with intention (meditation, prayer, or reflection)

Recognize that significant books often take longer than expected to complete

Resources Mentioned

"Unhooked" by Jason Combs

"Finding Joe" documentary about Joseph Campbell's Hero's Journey

"Aspire: Discovering Your Purpose Through The Power of Words" by Kevin Hall

"The Witness Wore Red" by Rebecca Musser and Bridget Cook-Burch

"The Shack" by William Paul Young

YourInspiredStory.com - Bridget's website with various writing programs

This episode offers both practical guidance and inspiring examples for those seeking to transform personal experiences into published works. As Bridget emphasizes, "Stories can change the world"—and with the right approach, yours might b

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