Interview with David Grau, Author of Changing the World

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Changing the World?

I ask my grandchildren to leave every room or place they walk away from better than they found it. As I pass through my mid-sixties, I feel like that about the world, too… It needs a lot of help… from a lot of good people… and right now. Small business owners are powerful and capable. To that end, this is a book about hope, encouragement, and a strategy to make a real difference. It is all about leaving the world in a better place than we found it.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Changing the World, what would they be?

The main characters in my book are the individual small business owners around the world. Accordingly, Bonnie Tyler’s “Holding Out for a Hero” has the energy, drama, and defiant hope that mirrors my book’s rallying cry: “Where are the everyday heroes willing to take responsibility? To lead with integrity? To build something that can last?”

This song is bold, it is emotionally urgent, it is intense, and it is fun, all at the same time! Owning a small business is my main character’s superpower. The heroes in my book are those who show up every day to serve employees, customers, suppliers, and the community with courage and care. My book says: The heroes we need aren’t out there someplace; they’re right here. They’re you.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I wrote three books in my first year of “retirement,” so not much time to read. But when I did read a lot, well… I miss Tom Clancy!

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Mostly non-fiction books that I think I could write better (humbly and respectfully so), or make more meaningful and enjoyable. I have the technical skills, but I really enjoy storytelling and adding some fun learning elements to my writing.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Mine is a non-fiction book, of course, but I created a business teaching scene using Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde! I think creativity in a non-fiction book is more important, not less.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I always have a cup of tea sitting nearby to get me through the tough spots, and to make the good moments even better!

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

“Get it done.” I don’t believe in procrastination or writer’s block. Sit down, write, polish it up, write some more. Tomorrow will come. 500 hours later, a book will be born!

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

“Hey, I can make a real difference. I started and now own a small business. I can change the world if I so choose!”

David Grau Sr. is the author of the new book Changing the World

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