An Interview with Ray Walker
Ray spent years out of sync with her body – until she was forced to listen to its wisdom and stop chasing skinny. That shift changed everything. When she shifted her focus from weight loss to health, she discovered a lighter, lasting way of living. She wrote The Awakened Body to inspire others to find their way. With her dog by her side, she enjoys joyful movement, camping, and creating healthy, delicious recipes to share with friends – in person and online (via blog and YouTube). Music feeds her soul – and when it’s live, she’s the one in the front row, heart open, unapologetically dancing like no one is watching.
Tell us the story of your book’s title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?
Nothing about writing this book was easy, but it was a deeply rewarding process. I was working with a fantastic developmental editor at the time, and by then I already had the manuscript outline complete and several chapters drafted – some even in their second and third revisions. As the book evolved, so did the title. We explored different variations, and through that collaborative brainstorming, the final title was born.
Partnering with a developmental editor didn’t just help shape the title – it elevated the entire book into what it is today.
How did it feel when you first saw your book cover? Or when you first held your book in your hands?
Seeing my book cover for the first time was surreal. I had originally worked with an artist to bring to life a concept I had dreamt about and envisioned so clearly. We came close – but when I shared that concept with the great Ronaldo and his team, they hit a home run. They took what I saw in my dreams and turned it into the exact cover you see today.
And then holding the proof copy in my hands…that was unforgettable. My manuscript was no longer just files and drafts – it was a real book. There’s truly no better feeling than knowing it was written, complete, and about to be launched into the world. I was overwhelmed with joy, because I knew this book would help others – and that was the heart behind writing it from the very beginning.
Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?
I’ve always loved to write. Even as a child, I poured my most private thoughts into a little pink diary with a tiny gold key – convinced that key could hide my heart from the world. I wrote creatively in school, excelled at essays, and journaling became a lifelong outlet. But writing a book was different – and honestly, not something I ever imagined doing professionally.
The shift happened when I was sharing my story with a friend one day. He listened closely, then looked at me and said, “You need to write this.” He believed – just as I did – that my journey could help others who were struggling with their health or weight. His encouragement planted a seed.
I’ve always believed in the power of real stories. When we witness someone rise from a place we recognize, it sparks hope. If they can do it…maybe I can too. That’s what inspired me to write: The desire to share my journey in a way that could lift others up and remind them of their own resilience, strength, and potential for transformation.
What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?
I’m a recovering corporate executive. I climbed the ladder in Fortune 500 companies, collected titles, carried the stress, and then tried the complete opposite – small, family-owned businesses where everyone does a bit of everything. I gained experience and perspective…but never fulfillment. On paper, it all looked great. Inside, I knew I was meant for something more.
I’ve always been a creative at heart. I tried channeling it through every hobby Michael’s or Hobby Lobby could lure me into – jewelry making, painting, you name it. Fun? Yes. The thing? No.
Everything shifted after my transformation. It cracked me open and reintroduced me to my authentic self. That’s when I found what finally felt like home: writing and helping others find what works for them. Writing this book wasn’t a career move; it was answering a calling I didn’t fully recognize until I held the finished book in my hands.
It turns out the life I was chasing wasn’t in a job title – it was in finding my true self.
What was the most rewarding/meaningful part of publishing your book?
The most rewarding part was finishing it – truly. Seeing it through from idea to completion was a huge milestone. But the deeper, more meaningful reward showed up both during the process and after it was published. As I was writing, I began connecting with people who saw pieces of themselves in my story, and that continued once the book was out in the world.
The real fulfillment comes from the conversations with readers and the moments when someone reaches out to share that the book helped them make a shift – whether it’s changing how they eat, moving their body more, or beginning to reconnect with who they truly are. Being part of someone’s journey back to themselves has been the greatest gift.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from reading your book? How do you envision your perfect reader?
I hope readers walk away knowing that their transformation doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. There is no one-size-fits-all path to health, healing, or happiness. My story is just one example of what’s possible when you stop fighting yourself, start listening to your body, and take aligned steps toward the life you want. If my journey helps someone believe, ‘If she can do it, maybe I can too,’ then the book has done its job.
As for my perfect reader? I’d say it’s someone who feels a pull for change but isn’t sure where to start. They’re curious, open to new ideas, and willing to actually implement changes. They believe in themselves – or are at least ready to start believing – and they understand that only they can create their transformation. No magic pills. No quick fixes. Just the courage to show up for themselves in a new way and take one step in a different direction. That’s all it takes to begin.
What creative projects are you currently working on?
Right now, I’m continuing to pour my creativity into my weekly health and wellness blog, along with my healthy cooking demonstrations – which have become such a fun way to inspire others in the kitchen. I’m also exploring the idea of developing a healthy cookbook. The wheels are turning, and I’m excited about where that project could go!
How was working with Atmosphere Press? What would you tell other writers who want to publish?
Working with Atmosphere Press was an incredible experience. What really stood out to me was the level of professionalism and the variety of talent they bring to the table. It’s not just one person – you’re supported by a whole team of experts, each with their own specialty, creativity, and strengths. From editing to design to production, every step of the process had someone who truly knew what they were doing and cared about bringing my book to life in the best possible way.
Just like in life, I naturally jelled with some team members more than others, but that’s to be expected when you’re collaborating with multiple creative professionals. Overall, the process was positive, memorable, and one I would absolutely do again. Atmosphere Press made the journey of publishing not only successful, but meaningful, and I’m grateful for the experience. If someone is looking for a collaborative publishing partner that truly supports authors, I would definitely recommend them.
Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.
Atmosphere Press is a selective hybrid publisher founded in 2015 on the principles of Honesty, Transparency, Professionalism, Kindness, and Making Your Book Awesome. Our books have won dozens of awards and sold tens of thousands of copies. If you’re interested in learning more, or seeking publication for your own work, please explore the links below.