Peggy Adler’s recent win of the Gold IPPY Award for Audiobook in the Non-Fiction/Personal category with Trilogy – Three True Stories of Scoundrels and Schemers is an exciting achievement—and a well-deserved one.

Winning this award is not just a professional milestone—it’s personal validation for all the years of hard work and creativity Adler’s poured into her stories. We had the pleasure of catching up with her to chat about her creative process, where she draws her inspiration from, and the valuable lessons she’s picked up along the way.

The Thrill of Validation

For Adler, winning an IPPY wasn’t just about receiving a shiny trophy—it was about one thing: “Validation – both personally & professionally,” she says, reflecting on how the recognition feels both rewarding and affirming.

After years of hard work and dedication to her writing, this award represents a meaningful acknowledgment of her voice and stories. And it’s clear from the excitement in her voice that the thrill of recognition never fades. “I was thrilled,” she beams, showing that no matter your experience, an accomplishment like an IPPY is always worth celebrating.

A Unique Writing Process: Inspiration Everywhere

When we asked Adler about her writing process, it became clear that it blended everyday life and spontaneous inspiration. “I ‘write’ in my head when talking walks, mowing the lawn, driving the car; pulling up weeds, et al,” she explains, revealing that her creativity doesn’t stick to a desk. Adler finds ideas everywhere, even when she’s simply doing chores or enjoying the outdoors.

And when the ideas come? She writes them down—whether on her trusty computer or, in the past, on her typewriter. Her approach shows that inspiration can strike at any moment, and sometimes, the best ideas come when we least expect them.

The Power of Speaking Up

One of the core messages in Trilogy is a powerful call to action: “If you see something – say something!” Adler emphasizes. She hopes readers leave her book not just entertained but inspired to act when they witness injustice or wrongdoing.

Trilogy is a reminder that even the smallest voice can make a difference and that courage can start with the simplest of actions.

Advice for Aspiring Authors

When it comes to advice for budding writers, Adler’s message is short, sweet, and to the point: “If you want to write – do!” No complicated formulas, no waiting for the “perfect moment”—just the simple act of putting words on paper. It’s a lesson Adler herself learned years ago, and it’s one that’s helped her create a lasting legacy in the literary world.

What’s Next for Adler

Though Adler has already accomplished so much, she’s not slowing down anytime soon. She’s already reflecting on what’s next—more stories to tell, more experiences to share, and more lessons to impart. Her journey continues to inspire, reminding us that it’s never too late to start something new.

Through her writing, Adler proves that stories have the power to educate, inspire, and spark change. Whether it’s a true tale of intrigue or a call to action, her work is a reminder that we all have a voice—and it’s worth using. So, if you’re sitting on a story you’ve been waiting to tell, take Adler’s advice: just do it. Your words have the power to make a difference.