So, I’ve got to humblebrag…
Several weeks ago a fellow author (’cause, you know, I’m an author n stuff) send me a message asking if I’d be interested in joining his panel discussion as a speaker. I immediately said- said being the operative word- ‘hell yah, I’d love to! Internally? I was like….
Listen, it was NOTHING against him. It was against me. What could I possibly add to the topic? How could I speak in front of a bunch of total strangers? What if I freeze? Just a million doubts ran through my head at once. But… but there was also this little bird in my head, fluttering and chirping, ‘You can do it’ ( actually, it was more in the voice of Rob Schneider)
Well, kids, I’m not going to prolong the story here, mostly because I just want to get to the shout-outs. It was so. Freaking. Fun. Turns out, I really, really like being a superstar famous center of attention panelist. Of course, it is ALL to the credit of my fellow panelists and moderator (now we’re ready for the shout-outs) which are these guys:
Let me tell you about these guys: Real Deal Guys MEN. Gifted authors, genuinely warm, friendly, and fun. As if that isn’t enough, they’re also respectful and gracious. I was BEYOND fortunate to have my very first panel be with them. Chris Paniccia did such a wonderful job guiding the conversation- and us- through each talking point, as well as sharing his wealth of knowledge & experience. RF Keenen spearheaded/created our topic- Navigating the Convention Circuit, A Danvers Panel. He was the brave soul who thought I’d be a good addition to their crew. Plus, he is such a friendly, kind man who goes out of his way to get to know people. And what can I say about Mr. Tell Me About Your Damn Book Stephen Lomer?! Thanks to this guy, I forgot to be scared because he had me laughing so much. He- perhaps unwittingly- gave me my first lesson in public speaking, which is to have some fun up there. Oh, and he got me to say bad words. Repeatedly. On camera. For his show…heaven help me. This man is trouble with a capital T:
Do Yourself A Favor…
and click on their names above, like and follow their pages & check out their work. They are some cool dudes…
Elsa Kurt is a multi-genre, indie & traditionally published author of six novels & several novellas. She is available for book signing events, panels, book clubs & more in the New England area. Please contact her at authorelsakurt@gmail.com.
