In this inspiring conversation, Alyssa sits down with Elaine Alec, Indigenous author, speaker, and thought leader, to explore the powerful journey behind her books Calling My Spirit Back and Coming of Age. Through deeply personal reflections, Elaine shares insights into the creative process, the self-publishing journey, and the healing power of storytelling—especially within Indigenous communities.
Whether you’re a writer, a reader, or someone navigating your own healing path, Elaine’s wisdom offers valuable guidance on how vulnerability, authenticity, and connection can shape both personal and collective growth.
The Journey of Writing ‘Calling My Spirit Back’
Elaine Alec opens up about the writing process behind Calling My Spirit Back, a memoir that blends personal experience with cultural storytelling. For Elaine, writing wasn’t just about sharing her story—it was a deeply healing act. From confronting intergenerational trauma to reclaiming her voice, every chapter was a step toward spiritual and emotional restoration.
“Writing was a way to bring myself back to myself,” Elaine shares. “To call my spirit back.”
Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing: A Path of Empowerment
Elaine chose the self-publishing route, bypassing traditional publishing in favour of creative freedom and ownership of her narrative. In the interview, she explains how traditional routes often lack the flexibility and cultural understanding needed to tell Indigenous stories authentically.
Self-publishing allowed Elaine to maintain control over her message, market her work on her own terms, and build a meaningful connection with her readers.
The Power of Authentic Storytelling in Indigenous Culture
One of the interview’s core themes is the importance of authentic storytelling. Elaine emphasizes that for Indigenous people, storytelling is not just art—it’s a sacred responsibility. Stories preserve language, culture, and identity. But authenticity requires courage.
“We have to share from a place of truth,” Elaine says. “Even when it’s uncomfortable.”
By embracing vulnerability, storytellers help readers connect, heal, and see themselves in new ways.
Healing Through Writing: From Wound to Scar
Writing Calling My Spirit Back helped Elaine transform wounds into wisdom. In the conversation, she discusses how the act of writing helped her move from pain to healing—not by forgetting trauma, but by facing it honestly.
Elaine also offers advice for those just beginning their own healing journeys: listen to your body, honor your emotions, and give yourself the time and space to write through pain.
The Responsibility of Storytellers & Listening with Discipline
Elaine reflects on the responsibility that comes with storytelling—especially when speaking from a cultural or community perspective. She urges writers to listen with discipline, to fully understand the weight of the stories they carry and the impact those stories may have.
“Listening is not just about hearing,” she says. “It’s about presence, awareness, and care.”
This mindful listening is essential for creating safe, respectful spaces—both in writing and in life.
Marketing Authentically: Sharing to Connect
A major takeaway from the conversation is Elaine’s approach to authentic book marketing. Rather than relying on impersonal strategies, Elaine leads with her story—sharing pieces of her own life to build real connections.
“When we market with authenticity, we attract the people who need our stories most.”
This approach has resonated with readers and helped her build a community of support around her work.
Looking Ahead: Future Storytelling Aspirations
The conversation closes with Elaine reflecting on the ongoing nature of her storytelling journey. From future books to community-based storytelling initiatives, she’s committed to continuing the work of healing, teaching, and inspiring through narrative.
Elaine Alec’s journey is a powerful reminder that stories can be medicine—for both the teller and the listener.
Final Thoughts
Elaine Alec’s Calling My Spirit Back is more than a book—it’s a movement of healing, honesty, and connection. In a world that often encourages silence, Elaine’s voice is a testament to the power of sharing our truths, embracing vulnerability, and reclaiming our narratives.
Whether you’re considering self-publishing, navigating your own healing journey, or simply seeking inspiration, Elaine’s story offers a rich well of wisdom to draw from.
