Love hearing about authors in their own words? Then read on for our latest author interview, with Jon Patrick Hatcher, author of The Teen Anxiety Guidebook!

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Introduce yourself!

Nonfiction Author & Humorist

Describe your book in one sentence.

Break free from anxiety and manage stress with simple strategies and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques in this straightforward and encouraging handbook.

Why did you want to write this book?

My primary objective in writing this book is to provide a relatable voice in reaching teens so they might realize that because of–not despite–their feelings of anxiety they’re in the majority. While my wish is to noticeably shift their perspective in a positive and more hopeful direction. My secondary objective is a future multi-million dollar book advance so I can afford San Francisco rent and the occasional street taco.

What was your biggest challenge with writing the book?

Earning the credibility with a teen audience. They don’t care that long (long) ago I was once a teen.

Have you ever experienced writer’s block? If so, how did you overcome it?

I don’t believe in “writer’s block”–not in the sense most people think it exists. If you ever think you have writer’s block, take a walk in nature, read something uplifting or inspirational (or, funny), go to the gym, meditate, or drink a few macchiatos. “Writer’s block” solved.

What is your writing process like?

I compare my process to that of a clay-mateer. That’s what I think a clay sculptor should be called. I start with a massive amount of content, then sculpt it away by revising it down. The bulk of my time is spent in the revision process. As it should be. Most first drafts are a mess. The most difficult part is being so close to the material for so long that I no longer recognize it as good… or even acceptable. My favorite part is when the book officially goes to print while I laugh maniacally in the background somewhere because I’ve nearly lost my mind with the hours I’ve committed to the work.

What are you currently reading?

I have a stack of books on my bedside table. I typically read four at a time, depending on mood. I currently have a humor memoir (Molly Shannon), a daily devotional book to keep me centered, a nonfiction humor work (Dave Barry), and I’m always re-reading a classic–in this instance it’s “984; and previously it was Lord of the Flies, Fahrenheit 451, and To Kill a Mockingbird (basically all the stuff we were forced to read as kids before we knew it was great).

What’s your favorite movie or TV show? What are you currently watching?

Series are my vice. Stuff like “Succession,” “Barry,” “Ted Lasso,” and “Below Deck”–but only because I love boats (and entitled rich people drama).

Who is your favorite author?

Dave Barry. He has a formulaic humor methodology that is punchy and consistent. He’s knows what he’s doing and has cracked “the code.”

What is a book that has had a profound impact on you?

The books of the New Testament more than anything else. They’ve stood up to thousands of years of scrutiny, and remain steadfast as historically relevant, impactful, and the greatest “self-help” ever.

What’s something you’d like your audience to know about you?

I’ve had 13 sports related, orthopedic surgeries. Everything but my writing hand hurts.

What advice would you give to a writer working on their first book?

Are you some sort of sadist?! Write because you love writing. Not for any potential material outcome. Only then will you actually be in control of the outcome.

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Thanks for answering our questions, Jon! To learn more, check out Jon’s author profile and his latest book, The Teen Anxiety Guidebook.