Transforming the Narrative Making Space for Disabled and Minority Authors in Literature

Tracy Stewart explores the challenges of amplifying unheard voices, dismantling barriers in publishing, and championing authentic stories from underrepresented communities, particularly those with disabilities, to ignite genuine inclusion and belongi

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood is joined by Tracy Stewart to explore the art and challenge of telling untold stories. Together they examine exclusion in the publishing industry, unpack the persistent barriers faced by underrepresented authors, and discuss the importance of bravely amplifying diverse voices. Joanne reflects on her own journey with writing and podcasting, while Tracy outlines why authentic narratives—particularly those from marginalised or disabled perspectives—are crucial for societal change. Their discussion ranges from the practical challenges of getting published to the invisible hurdles faced by those without financial privilege or traditional access.

Tracy is a book coach, editor, and the founder of Freshly Press, an organisation dedicated to supporting unheard voices and advancing inclusivity in publishing. Based in Normandy, France, she has spent the past decade guiding authors who have struggled to find a platform within mainstream publishing. Tracy’s approach is rooted in both craft and advocacy, ensuring writers from diverse backgrounds develop their confidence and storytelling skillset. Her expertise lies in recognising and nurturing authentic voices, supporting disabled writers, and offering pathways through the complicated world of editing, publishing, and self-publication.

The episode highlights pervasive issues in publishing, such as the lack of representation for disabled and neurodivergent writers, the commercial risk-averse nature of many publishers, and the financial realities that so often stifle emerging talent. Joanne and Tracy also consider the role of technology, including the opportunities and limitations posed by AI in the creative writing process. They reflect on the importance of soul in storytelling and the need for publishers to be more courageous in their selections, championing narratives that offer genuine insight and emotional connection.

A key takeaway from this episode is that authentic storytelling—particularly from underrepresented voices—enriches the literary landscape and fosters true societal belonging. Listeners are encouraged to seek out, support, and share the stories that challenge norms and create spaces where every experience matters. This conversation offers hope and practical strategies for anyone aspiring to share their story or advocate for change in the world of publishing.

Published: 21.08.2025 Recorded: 26.03.2025 Duration: 1:07:27

• AI Extracts and Interpretations
• The Inclusion Bites Podcast #172 Telling Untold Stories — app.castmagic.io
• Other Links
• SEE Change Happen: The Inclusive Culture Experts
• Inclusion Bites Podcast on YouTube

Clips and Timestamps

Diversifying the Publishing World: “looking at it from the other perspective made me realise just how many stories effectively don’t make the cut with publishers because they’re often not brave enough to take on stories that are different.”
— Tracy Stewart [00:04:22 → 00:04:34]

Viral Topic: The Publishing Paradox
Quote: “There is no market, therefore we can’t. But because we can’t, there is no market.”
— Tracy Stewart [00:14:42 → 00:14:46]

The Real Cost of Publishing a Book: “Let’s pick a number. 30,000 pound to get from A to B. And it each book doesn’t make that much money, does it? There’s not a huge amount of money in books.”
— Tracy Stewart [00:17:39 → 00:17:48]

Hierarchy of Privilege in Disability Representation: “If you’ve suffered a life changing injury due to warfare, whatever that may be, then your lived experience about the recovery from that. There’s a lot more money in supporting you around prosthetics, rehabilitation, giving you a voice than there is for someone who was maybe born, born without a limb or born with a cerebral palsy or whatever that may be, that they will no longer have access to that amplification and privilege and funding.”
— Tracy Stewart [00:27:00 → 00:27:29]

Authentic Representation in Media: “And I guess I want to see real lived experience told through their eyes, their lens, their perception, not a, I don’t know, a sort of sanitised version. I want to see the rawness.”
— Tracy Stewart [00:27:48 → 00:28:01]

AI and the Quantum Leap in Copywriting: “We’re in that kind of quantum acceleration now. This is going to change the world of copywriting.”
— Tracy Stewart [00:34:16 → 00:34:23]

The Human Touch in AI-Generated Eulogies: “But delivering it, something that’s written by AI, you can put that emphasis, you can put the soul into the words through the way you deliver, the pace, the tone, the modality of what you’re doing.”
— Tracy Stewart [00:42:40 → 00:42:53]

Understanding Disability Through Experience: “And all the stories I see now have a relevance to my avatar of her, if you like, knowing that experience. So I experience her story through her eyes in real time.”
— Tracy Stewart [00:45:57 → 00:46:08]

The Human Touch vs. AI Storytelling: “I actually put the soul into the story of their story by being with them.”
— Tracy Stewart [00:47:28 → 00:47:32]

Breaking Stereotypes in Romance on Screen: “And it’s really powerful when that is not a traditional heterosexual couple having that moment.”
— Tracy Stewart [00:52:03 → 00:52:07]

Definition of Terms Used

What is a Sensitivity Reader?

• Definition: A sensitivity reader is an individual who reviews manuscripts for accurate and respectful representation of marginalised or underrepresented groups, often focusing on issues of race, disability, sexuality, or gender.
• Relevance: Sensitivity readers help ensure that literature avoids stereotypes, misrepresentation, and harmful tropes, fostering authenticity and empathy in the portrayal of diverse characters and experiences.
• Examples: A publishing house commissions a wheelchair user as a sensitivity reader to review a novel featuring a disabled protagonist, checking for accuracy and respectful depiction.
• Related Terms: Sensibility Reader, Authentic Voice, Own Voices, Inclusive Publishing
• Common Misconceptions: Many believe sensitivity readers are there to police language or censor artistic freedom; in reality, their focus is on preventing harm and enhancing authenticity rather than censoring creativity.

What is Imposter Syndrome?

• Definition: Imposter syndrome is a psychological phenomenon where individuals doubt their accomplishments and fear being exposed as a “fraud,” despite external evidence of competence and success.
• Relevance: Imposter syndrome is particularly prevalent among aspiring authors from underrepresented backgrounds, acting as a significant barrier to entering the publishing industry or sharing their stories.
• Examples: A disabled writer hesitates to submit her manuscript because she feels unworthy of being considered an author, despite positive feedback.
• Related Terms: Self-Doubt, Perfectionism, Creative Anxiety, Writer’s Block
• Common Misconceptions: Some assume imposter syndrome only affects novices or those lacking skill; it often impacts high achievers and those with considerable expertise.

What is Self-Publishing?

• Definition: Self-publishing is the act of independently publishing and distributing books without involvement from an established publishing house, allowing authors full creative control and responsibility for production, marketing, and sales.
• Relevance: This route opens doors for authors, especially from marginalised groups, to bypass traditional gatekeepers and reach audiences directly, though it requires substantial effort and resources.
• Examples: An aspiring author uploads her completed novel to Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing and markets it through social media campaigns.
• Related Terms: Indie Publishing, Vanity Press, Print-on-Demand, Independent Author
• Common Misconceptions: Self-publishing is often viewed as less prestigious or “vanity-driven”; however, many successful and critically acclaimed authors choose this model to retain creative rights and broaden accessibility.

What is a Manuscript Review?

• Definition: A manuscript review is a professional evaluation of a written work, usually before publication, aimed at providing feedback on structure, content, style, coherence, and market suitability.
• Relevance: Manuscript reviews are crucial for authors, especially those new to the industry, as they help refine the narrative, enhance clarity, and strengthen the book’s chances in a competitive marketplace.
• Examples: Before submitting her memoir to agents, a writer requests a manuscript review to identify narrative gaps and opportunities for improvement.
• Related Terms: Developmental Editing, Beta Reading, Editorial Assessment, Book Doctor
• Common Misconceptions: Some believe a manuscript review is equivalent to full editing; in fact, it is usually an initial step providing general guidance and high-level feedback rather than in-depth language or technical correction.

What are Barriers to Access in Publishing?

• Definition: Barriers to access in publishing refer to the economic, physical, social, and systemic obstacles that prevent certain individuals or groups—such as disabled writers or people from non-traditional backgrounds—from participating fully in the creation and dissemination of literature.
• Relevance: Identifying and addressing these barriers is essential for achieving inclusion and equity in the publishing world, ensuring a diversity of voices and experiences.
• Examples: A visually impaired author struggles to use standard digital publishing platforms due to lack of accessibility features, or a writer cannot afford the costs of professional editing or cover design.
• Related Terms: Inclusive Publishing, Structural Inequality, Representation, Equity of Opportunity
• Common Misconceptions: Barriers to access are often seen as a matter of “lack of talent” or motivation; in reality, they are frequently due to structural factors such as discrimination, inaccessible technology, or financial constraints.

Frequently Asked Questions – Episode Niche Terms

1. What is a Sensitivity Reader? – An individual who reviews manuscripts for accurate and respectful representation of marginalised groups, helping to avoid stereotypes and misrepresentation.
2. What is Imposter Syndrome? – A psychological pattern where one doubts their abilities and fears being exposed as a fraud, often affecting capable writers and creatives.
3. What is Self-Publishing? – The process whereby authors publish their work independently, controlling the creative and distribution process without traditional publishers.
4. What is a Manuscript Review? – A professional assessment of a written draft, offering constructive feedback on structure, style, and content before submission or publication.
5. What are Barriers to Access in Publishing? – The structural, social, and economic challenges that impede marginalised individuals from full participation in publishing, including lack of accessibility, support, and resources.

Please connect with our hosts and guests, why not make contact..?

Brought to you by your host

Joanne Lockwood SEE Change Happen

A huge thank you to our wonderful guest

Tracy Stewart Freshley Press

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