As the host of this podcast, I have the privilege of talking to lots of extraordinary writers, business leaders, and creative minds. Today I’m honored to bring you this conversation with a truly legendary writer, for one of best episodes ever! Let me tell you a bit about him.

Dave Pelzer is a man who represents overcoming adversity, and he has dedicated his life to helping others so they can help themselves.

As a former Air Force Combat Air Crew Member, Dave’s job entailed midair refueling of the once highly secretive SR-71 Blackbird and the F-117 Stealth Fighter. While on active duty, Dave was selected as California Volunteer of the Year.

Dave has received personal commendations from four U. S. Presidents. He was honored as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Americans, and later, was the only American to be honored as The Outstanding Young Person of the World.

Dave is also the recipient of the National Jefferson Award which is considered the Pulitzer Prize for public service. Other recipients include Sandra Day O’Connor and Colin Powell.

Dave is the author of nine inspirational books. His books have been on bestseller lists for well over thirteen years combined. His most famous book, A Child Called “It”: One Child’s Courage to Survive has been on the New York Times bestseller list for well over six years. In fact, Dave is the first author to have four #1 International bestsellers and to have four books simultaneously on the New York Times Bestseller List.

For nearly the last ten years, Dave has served as a California Fire Captain in two separate districts. During that time, he’s been deployed to the state’s most horrendous fires. You can find out more about Dave at https://davepelzer.com.

In this conversation, Dave shares how he came to write A Child Called “It” and how that led to an extraordinary writing career. We discuss:

• How he first got into writing.
• What it’s like being on the NYT bestseller list for so long.
• His marketing strategies.
• His thoughts on building a long-term successful writing career.
• His new book, Return to the River: Reflections on Life Choices During a Pandemic.
• The most important things an author can do to build their business.

I’ve never interviewed anyone quite like Dave! I know you’ll enjoy this conversation just as much as I did.

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Today’s episode is sponsored by Karen Hunsanger, an incredible editor known as “The Word Wizard.” I’ve worked with Karen many times, and she is your secret weapon for crafting the highest-quality book possible. Visit the link above for a free sample edit.