I help authors land their first podcast interview so that they gain readers, build community, and unlock opportunities.
- START NOW. You don't need to be perfect. Use fun, strengths-based practices to grow confident, focused, and intentional in how you talk about your storytelling.
- SPEAK UP. Stop waiting to feel ready and start getting booked. I'll help you pitch, prepare, and deliver conversations that grow your sphere of influence.
- STAND OUT. Writers who guest on podcasts sell more books, build loyal communities, and earn speaking invitations. Your ideas deserve a bigger room.
From Isolated Writer to Confident Communicator
I live in small-town Missouri with a deep love for jazz and blues. Few people around me wanted to talk about it! So in 2021, I grabbed a mic, downloaded free software, and started a podcast.
Through cold emails and genuine curiosity, I connected with musicians, historians, and creators across the globe. People I never could have reached otherwise suddenly wanted to talk to me.
That's when it clicked...
Creating content isn't just about hitting "publish."
It's about giving yourself permission to pursue what matters to you, building confidence in your voice, and connecting with people who actually get it.
If you feel invisible right now, stuck in a place where nobody cares about what lights you up, I can help change that!
Books, Blog, and Podcast
Missing Library Book
Mr. Derek is everybody's favorite librarian. Well . . . mostly everybody. One day, he can't find a book requested by the infamous Miss Meanie Mouth. To please her, he writes the most perfect book ever. But will it be good enough?
Stress-Free Student: Time Management Secrets for College Students Who Study Less, Score High, and Skip Burnout
Are you a stressed-out college student with too much to do? In less than three hours, this book will show you how to save 300 hours of wasted time and energy in college. Unleash stress-free productivity in college and beyond!
Breakthrough: 5 Tools for Productivity and Focus in Your Creative Life
Ever feel like creative productivity and focus is out of reach? You have ideas, dreams, and projects. But life’s distractions, endless to-do lists, and self-doubt stand in your way. Breakthrough is here to change that.
Power Podcasting: How to Start a Podcast That Grows Your Sphere of Influence
Have you thought about starting a podcast? This book will show you how to start a podcast where you learn about a topic you’re passionate about while also forging connections and community in your niche. Explore a topic you love AND grow your sphere of influence!
Discovery with Derek
A lifelong student of psychology, philosophy, and twentieth-century pop culture, Derek Zboran writes vivid tales of urban dystopias, strange galaxies, and lawless frontiers. Inspired by Ray Bradbury’s challenge to read daily and write boldly, his stories explore universal human archetypes in the spirit of vintage American pulp.
Jazz & Blues Affinity
Jazz & Blues Affinity is guided by curiosity about the creative life. In unhurried conversations with working musicians, Derek L. Zboran explores how artists face self-doubt, sustain their craft, and keep finding joy, meaning, and excellence in the work. Rooted in jazz, blues, and the stories behind the songs, the show treats music as the doorway into something larger: what it takes to live creatively.
What Makes My Approach Different
Research-backed, not motivational fluff
I hold an MA in Communication and ground everything in Positive Psychology research. You get strategies that actually work, not just hype.
Practical action over endless planning
No endless planning or course-hopping. You'll learn how to empower your communication style one personal development project at a time.
Community over isolation
Live Zoom group coaching means real feedback, accountability, and connection with others who are growing in their voices.
Strength-based confidence building
We start with what you're naturally good at, not someone else's formula. It's less about telling you what to do, and more helping you use tools, resources, and ideas you already care about.
How I Can Help You
Coaching & Teaching
I offer online courses and group coaching programs that help writers build confidence in their voice. Through video lessons, practical exercises, and live Zoom group sessions, you'll discover your character strengths, expand your well-being as you practice public speaking in a supportive community, and broaden-and-build your perspective through positive creative experiences.
Writing & Podcasting Services
I've created resources that guide writers through the podcasting journey, including my book, Power Podcasting: How to Start a Podcast That Grows Your Sphere of Influence. I can help you create your own podcast from concept to launch, develop your unique voice as a podcast guest, or craft content that positions you as someone worth listening to. I'll help you get started building a platform that enriches your writer's life.
Who I Am
I help writers discover their public speaking potential through podcasting. My creative work includes four #1 Amazon New Releases in several categories, and the "Jazz and Blues Affinity" podcast (3,700+ downloads). I've shared insights on creativity at TEDx Missouri S&T, hold degrees in Communication and General Studies, and currently study Philosophy and Positive Psychology. I serve as President of Ozark Orators Toastmasters and facilitate Rolla Writers Club. The transformation that connected me with creators worldwide is available to you.
You Don't Need Permission. You Need a Plan.
Your ideas deserve more than your immediate circle. Your voice deserves to be heard beyond your zip code. And your passions deserve communities that actually care.
Whether you want to host your own show or become a sought-after podcast guest, I'll help you build the confidence and skills to make it happen.
Ready to turn "I want to podcast someday" into "I'm a podcaster"?
Reach Out To Us
(573) 202-4579
derek@zboran.com
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