Episode Details

What does it take to turn a lifelong dream into a reality?

In this episode of Her Next Act, Joan sits down with bestselling author Julie Gerstenblatt to explore the winding path from aspiring writer to traditionally published novelist. Julie shares how years of persistence and believing in herself ultimately led to publishing two bestselling historical novels Daughters of Nantucket and The Stargazer of Nantucket.

Through every chapter, she never let go of her dream of becoming an author. Julie opens up about navigating self-doubt, embracing unexpected opportunities, and discovering that success often comes from being willing to pivot, take risks, and trust the process.

Together, Joan and Julie discuss what it really looks like to build a creative career in midlife, why community and relationships matter as much as talent, and how claiming your identity before you feel "ready" can change everything.

This conversation is a heartfelt reminder that your dreams don't have an expiration date. Sometimes the path takes longer than expected, but every experience along the way prepares you for your next act.

Episode Highlights:

➔ Julie's lifelong dream of becoming a published author and why she never gave up on it

➔ How self-publishing became an important stepping stone toward traditional publishing

➔ The surprising power of declaring your dreams before you fully believe them yourself

➔ Why rejection, setbacks, and changing direction are often necessary parts of the creative journey

➔ How Julie reinvented herself by shifting from contemporary fiction to historical fiction

➔ The role community, mentors, and unexpected supporters played in helping her succeed

➔ Why embracing discomfort and taking creative risks opened doors she never anticipated

➔ How historical research, storytelling, and a love of Nantucket became the foundation of her bestselling novels

➔ What it means to fully step into a new identity after years of hard work and perseverance

➔ Why it's never too late to pursue a lifelong dream and create a meaningful second act

Find out more about Julie Gerstenblatt:

Website:

Julie Gerstenblatt: https://www.juliegerstenblatt.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliegerstenblatt/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julie.gerstenblatt/

Purchase Books:

Stargazer of Nantucket

Daughters of Nantucket

Learn more and follow along with me - Joan Paul

Website: https://hernextact.com/

instagram: @hernextact

facebook: @joanpaul

The Griswold Inn

Thank you for listening and remember, you're never too old, and it's not too late! That one day is now!

xojoan