Today we’d like to introduce you to Shelly Lee.
Hi Shelly, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Growing up, I always loved writing, but becoming an author and author coach was never part of my original career plan. Like many people, I worked a full-time job while pursuing my education, eventually earning my MBA. Throughout that time, I felt a persistent calling to write and encourage others through my experiences and faith.
When I published my first book, I quickly discovered that writing the book was only part of the journey. Figuring out self-publishing, understanding the process, and knowing what to do next felt overwhelming. After spending countless hours researching, learning, making mistakes, and praying through the process, I successfully published my own books. That experience changed everything.
I realized there were so many aspiring authors who had powerful stories and valuable knowledge but were stuck because they didn’t know where to start. Some were overwhelmed, some were afraid, and others had been putting off their dream for years. I knew I wanted to help change that.
In 2020, I founded Pen.Paper.Publish with the mission of helping aspiring authors stop feeling overwhelmed and confidently write the book they’ve been called to write. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of coaching authors through the writing and self-publishing process, creating educational resources, speaking at events, and developing my signature 5P Method™: Pray, Plan, Pen, Proof, and Publish.
Today, I continue balancing my full-time career while building Pen.Paper.Publish into a trusted resource for aspiring authors. My passion is helping people move from saying, “One day I’ll write my book,” to finally becoming published authors with confidence and clarity.
Looking back, every challenge I faced became part of the foundation of my business. The obstacles that once frustrated me are now the very lessons I use to encourage others. My journey has taught me that purpose often grows through perseverance, and I’m grateful to help others share the stories God has placed on their hearts.
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I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely has not been a smooth road.
Like many entrepreneurs, I started my business while working a full-time job, which meant building my dream during evenings, weekends, and every spare moment I could find. Time management became essential, and there were seasons when progress felt much slower than I wanted.
One of my biggest challenges was learning that having a passion for helping people is not the same as knowing how to build a successful business. I invested in coaching, training, and education to better understand branding, marketing, sales, and creating offers that truly meet people’s needs. Those experiences taught me that serving people well also requires learning how to communicate your value effectively.
I’ve also experienced disappointment. I’ve hosted workshops that no one registered for, promoted offers that didn’t generate sales, and questioned whether I was on the right path. Those moments were discouraging, but they also forced me to refine my message, better understand my audience, and continue improving rather than giving up.
On a personal level, balancing business, family responsibilities, and a full-time career has required faith, discipline, and perseverance. There have been many late nights and early mornings, but I’ve learned that consistency matters more than speed.
Today, I see those challenges differently. Every setback has strengthened me, sharpened my skills, and prepared me to better serve the aspiring authors I work with. Because I’ve experienced uncertainty, overwhelm, and disappointment myself, I can genuinely encourage others who are standing at the beginning of their own writing journey. Those obstacles didn’t stop me. They shaped me into the coach I am today.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
At Pen.Paper.Publish, my mission is simple: to help aspiring authors stop feeling overwhelmed and finally start writing the book they’ve been called to write.
Many people know they have a story, a message, or expertise worth sharing, but they don’t know where to begin. They spend months or even years overthinking the process, waiting for the perfect time, or believing they need everything figured out before writing the first chapter. I help remove that overwhelm by giving them a clear roadmap and the confidence to move forward.
What sets Pen.Paper.Publish apart is my signature 5P Method™: Pray, Plan, Pen, Proof, and Publish. Instead of simply telling people to “just write,” I walk them through a structured, step-by-step process that takes them from idea to finished book. My approach combines practical strategy, accountability, and encouragement so authors know exactly what to do next.
I offer one-on-one coaching, book clarity sessions, writing intensives, digital workbooks, and educational resources designed to meet aspiring authors wherever they are in their journey. Whether someone has only an idea or has been stuck halfway through a manuscript for years, my goal is to help them make meaningful progress.
What I’m most proud of is the transformation I get to witness. Seeing someone move from doubt and uncertainty to calling themselves an author is incredibly rewarding. It’s not just about publishing books. It’s about helping people believe their voice matters and giving them the confidence to share their message with the world.
If there’s one thing I want readers to know, it’s this: your book won’t write itself, but you don’t have to write it alone. With the right guidance, a proven process, and consistent action, becoming a published author is far more attainable than most people realize.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
Although I live in Beaumont, Houston is the closest major city, and I have family there. While I haven’t had the opportunity to spend much time exploring the city itself, I’ve always appreciated Houston’s reputation for diversity, entrepreneurship, and opportunity. It seems like a place where people from many different backgrounds can pursue their dreams, build businesses, and connect with thriving communities.
Because I haven’t experienced the city enough firsthand, I don’t think it’s fair for me to say what I like least. Instead, I’d say I’m looking forward to spending more time there in the future, exploring its neighborhoods, supporting local businesses, and experiencing everything it has to offer for myself.
Pricing:
- Book Clarity Session (30 minutes): $47 A one-on-one session to help aspiring authors gain clarity on their book idea, audience, and next steps before they begin writing.
- Turn Your Message Into a Book™ Workbook: $27 A self-paced digital workbook designed to help aspiring authors organize their ideas and confidently start writing.
- One-on-One Author Coaching Customized coaching packages are available based on each author’s goals and needs.
- Learn More & Book Services All current services, coaching, and digital resources are available at Pensight: https://pensight.com/x/penpaperpublish
Contact Info:
- Website: https://pensight.com/x/penpaperpublish
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pen.paper.publish
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Pen.Paper.Publish
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@pen.paper.publish
- Other: https://linktr.ee/shellylee
