KEN WALDECKER; ONCE UPON A STORY

Written By Johnny Davis

Ken and “Princess Ella” Waldecker

What begins as a nightly tradition between a father and daughter has now blossomed into a beloved children’s book series. In this week’s episode, we welcome Ken Waldecker, author and creator of the Princess Ella books—a heartfelt adventure born at bedtime, brought to life through passion, persistence, and creativity.

Ken shares how bedtime stories with his daughter Ella turned into an imaginative empire, from late-night giggles and sword-fighting scenes to full-color, self-published picture books. We go behind the scenes of launching a children's book—from the spark of inspiration to printing, marketing, and staying true to the creative act.

Whether you’re a writer, a parent, a dreamer, or someone curious about turning ideas into impact, this episode is your guide to making something magical—one page at a time.

SHOW NOTES:

  • Bedtime stories become bedtime adventures: the spark of a creative journey

  • Writing, illustrating, and self-publishing: building a business around a dream

  • The power of persistence in marketing and local outreach

  • The joy of inspiring young readers and writers

  • Ella’s growing role and love for the spotlight

Feeling inspired to write your own story or publish your first book? Ken encourages aspiring authors to keep going, even when responses are slow or discouraging. As he shares, "The creative part is usually the easy part. It's everything that comes after that's the real test."

Johnny Davis https://www.jdavisdigital.com
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