1 in 31 Children Have Autism. Alicia Calhoun Is on a Mission to Make Sure They Finally See Themselves in Children's Books

Williams Commerce Publishing

Ross: What inspired you to write your first book?

Alicia: My first book, Bubba Has a Calm Day, was inspired by my nephew Isaiah. Watching his unique way of experiencing and interacting with the world made me realize how important it is for children who communicate differently to see themselves represented in stories. I wanted to create a character who felt authentic, comforting, and relatable for neurodivergent children and their families.

Ross: When did you first get the idea to become an author?

Alicia: I’ve always enjoyed storytelling, but the idea of becoming an author truly took shape when I recognized the lack of representation for children like Isaiah in children’s literature. I felt called to create stories that celebrate differences, encourage understanding, and help children feel seen.

Ross: What do you want readers’ biggest takeaways to be from your book?

Alicia: I hope readers walk away with a greater appreciation for the many ways children experience the world. I want children to know that they are valued exactly as they are, and I want families, educators, and caregivers to see the beauty in supporting children through patience, understanding, and acceptance.

Ross: What are your professional passions and career endeavors aside from writing books?

Alicia: Beyond writing, I am passionate about advocacy, education, and creating resources that support neurodivergent children and their families. My work focuses on promoting inclusion, awareness, and meaningful representation while helping build communities where every child feels welcomed and understood.

Ross: Why was it important to show Bubba finding comfort in everyday moments?

Alicia: Many children find safety, joy, and regulation in simple daily routines and familiar experiences. I wanted to highlight those moments because they are meaningful and powerful. Showing Bubba finding comfort in everyday situations helps normalize those experiences and reminds readers that calmness, happiness, and success can look different for everyone.

Ross: What do you want educators and therapists to find valuable about your book?

Alicia: I hope educators and therapists see the book as a tool for fostering empathy, encouraging conversations about neurodiversity, and helping children understand different communication styles. The story can also serve as a gentle way to discuss emotional regulation, sensory preferences, and inclusion in classrooms and therapeutic settings.

Ross: If a child sees themselves in Bubba for the very first time, what would you want that child to know?

Alicia: I would want them to know that they are wonderful exactly as they are. Their voice matters, even if they communicate differently. They deserve to be understood, respected, and celebrated. Most importantly, they are not alone—there are people who see them, care about them, and believe in them.

Ross: What can your readers expect next from you?

Alicia: Readers can look forward to more Bubba adventures. Bubba Has a Calm Day is the first book in a growing series designed to support and celebrate neurodivergent children. I’m excited to continue creating stories that promote inclusion, representation, and understanding while introducing new experiences and adventures for Bubba and his friends.

Toshiba Smallwood on Trauma, Healing, and the Message Behind Jamal's Brave Voice

What inspired you to write your first book?

Jamal’s Brave Voice was inspired by my own personal story. I know what it feels like to go through difficult situations without having a safe person to turn to when I needed one most. As I reflected on my experiences, I realized that many children today are still facing similar struggles, feeling unheard, unseen, and unsure of who they can trust. I wrote this book because I want children to know that their voices and feelings matter and that it’s okay to speak up when something doesn’t feel right. My hope is that Jamal’s Brave Voice helps create a generation of children who feel empowered to use their voice and seek support from safe, trusted adults. If this book can help even one child feel seen, heard, and protected, then it has fulfilled its purpose.

What made you choose this topic?

I chose this topic because so many children still struggle with expressing themselves, finding their voice, and having the courage to use it. Too often, children stay silent because of fear, shame, uncertainty, or the belief that no one will listen to them. I wanted to create a story that encourages children to understand that their voice is powerful and that what they have to say matters. Every child deserves to feel heard, valued, and safe enough to speak their truth. Through Jamal’s Brave Voice, I hope to inspire children to find confidence in themselves and remind them that they never have to suffer in silence.

When did you first get the idea to become an author?

Becoming an author was never something I originally planned for myself. It wasn’t a lifelong dream or a goal I set out to achieve. The idea came naturally as I spent time reflecting on my experiences and putting my thoughts into writing. As I began writing, I realized I had created a children’s story with a meaningful message. That’s when I felt inspired to take the next step and share it with the world. I saw an opportunity to impact the next generation of children by encouraging them to find their voice, believe in themselves, and know that they are not alone. What started as a personal reflection became a purpose-driven book that I felt called to share with others.

What do you want readers’ biggest takeaways to be from your book?

First, I want children to know that they do not have to be afraid to use their voice. I want them to understand the power that exists within their voice and to know that their thoughts, feelings, and experiences matter. My hope is to help create a generation of children who feel safe, confident, and empowered enough to speak up when something is wrong. Second, I want adults to understand how important it is to be a safe space for children. Children need trusted adults who will listen without judgment, believe them, and respond with care and support. I want parents, caregivers, teachers, and community members to recognize the signs when a child may be struggling and to know how important their response can be.

Most importantly, I want both children and adults to understand that creating safe environments is a community responsibility. Real change happens when we work together to ensure that children feel protected, valued, heard, and supported. When children have safe spaces and trusted people in their lives, they are more likely to grow into healthy, confident individuals who can positively impact the world around them.

What inspired you to become a trauma coach and public speaker?

My inspiration came from understanding and acknowledging what I have personally been through and realizing that I survived it. As I began my own healing journey, I recognized the impact trauma can have on every area of a person’s life and the importance of addressing it rather than ignoring it. I am grateful that God has brought healing through my experiences and transformed some of my greatest pain into purpose. Through that healing, I discovered a passion for helping others understand trauma, recognize its effects, and find the courage to begin their own healing journey. As a trauma coach and public speaker, my goal is to use my voice to encourage, educate, and empower others. I want people to know that healing is possible and that their past does not have to define their future. I am especially passionate about helping the next generation by raising awareness, creating safe conversations, and helping prevent the kinds of traumatic experiences that so many adults have had to overcome. If my story can inspire even one person to begin their healing journey, then I believe I am walking in the purpose God has called me to fulfill.

What can your readers expect next from you?

Readers can expect more stories from Jamal and many more books to come. I have a strong desire to continue creating children’s books that inspire, educate, and empower young people to find their voice and walk confidently through life’s challenges. I also hope to write a book about my personal life and healing journey, sharing my experiences, lessons, and the faith that has helped shape who I am today. Beyond writing, readers can expect to see me continue teaching about trauma, speaking at events, and creating opportunities for honest conversations about healing. My passion is to encourage people to begin their healing journey, understand the impact of trauma, and discover that growth and restoration are possible. Most importantly, I pray that I can continue to be an inspiration to others by using my voice, my story, and my platform to bring hope, healing, and positive change to the world.

Link to order Jamal's Brave Voice

Follow author @blvckshe3p_ & publisher @wcwriting1 on Instagram

Adam "Swamp Donkey" Richards Reveals The Trauma and Mental Health Battles Behind His Boxing Success

What inspired you to finally tell your story?

I have finally had some downtime and was able to reflect on my childhood and my life. I have wanted to write a book since my retirement, but life keeps happening and that made it challenging for me. I want this book to bring awareness to parents of child athletes. Since my retirement and raising my son, I have stepped back and observed parent-athlete relationships.

Seeing how they act on the field with their children, you can only imagine what their life is like at home. Most of these parents look at their children as a resemblance to something they could never fully accomplish and want their child to do it for them. Or they are looking at them like a future paycheck. Any verbal or physical abuse is traumatic and lasts a lifetime if not addressed, and this book shines a light of hope on that.

Do you think your tough upbringing played a factor in your success as a boxer?

Yes, I believe the way I was brought up got me to a world championship. My dad only had one gear, and back in the day, that was accepted. He embedded the mentality in my head that second place is just the first loser.

I’d rather sacrifice myself than take a loss. Losing was not an option. This pushed me to never settle and to be the best, but his tactics of getting this message across scarred me mentally and physically. So, when you hear “It’s a lifestyle,” they are correct. It’s the only thing that matters.

How was your mental health at the height of your career?

When I fought for the WBO World Championship in Berlin, Germany, it was like a yo-yo. There was never any consistency with my father or my manager, which then seeped into my camp and my head. Any distractions will take a toll mentally and physically on an athlete. Even on the day of my championship fight, my father's actions left me completely unfocused. He was a no-show for my fight.

What advice would you give to someone who is at their lowest mentally?

You are not alone. We all have demons that we fight within our own heads. My best advice to deal with them is to TALK ABOUT IT! Keeping your problems concealed will only allow them to fester, frustrate, and irritate. Call a close friend or family member; they will listen, and they will not judge. Giving up is not an option.

What would you have done differently about your boxing career?

I would have kept family out of the management of my career. Being a child in sports, I had no choice. But when I grew up and was successful, the feeling of obligation was unescapable. I never felt like I was fighting for myself. I was fighting for someone else. I was being told what to do with my own life. I felt like a puppet.

What do you want readers' biggest takeaways to be from your book?

I want parents of athletes to be aware of what they are doing to their children. Their words and physical actions can be detrimental and can scar their children for life. My takeaway for the athletes is that they can make it better. Speak up and talk about it with your parents or coach. It’s not just one-sided; you have a voice.

What can your readers expect next from you?

My life goes on, and I face many crossroads. Another book is in the works to share with the world how I have survived an accident and more mental challenges. I am also starting a podcast and a movement #thatsforyoumom.

Link to pre-order Adam's book: Swamp Donkey: Bred to fight

Follow author & retired boxer @adamrichards1 & book publishing company @wcwriting1 on Instagram