Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephen Davis.
Hi Stephen, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
In 2016, while scrambling for a few last-minute Christmas gifts, I found myself roaming through the children’s section of a local bookstore, perplexed by my inability to find a good story. That experience led to me writing my own book, “Brooke & Collins’ Rainy Day Adventure,” in 2017. Through that process, I learned a tremendous amount about the world of publishing – specifically children’s picture books. After my book launched, I began to do the occasional consulting on the side, offering up my knowledge when necessary, helping other authors on their journey to become published. The creative process was thrilling for me as I further explored the fundamentals, expanding my knowledge of the process while learning how other creatives, well, created. In 2019 I decided to broaden my vision and began reaching out to unpublished storytellers I felt had a voice and perspective to share. There were a ton of no’s and no responses to my initial inquiries. I credit my perceived confidence and knowledge to gaining my first collaborator, as well as my willingness to cut against the grain. Each of our writers is unique; their voice, unlike any others. As a result, each of our books is different, a personal extension of its creator. I started Padlock thinking I’d change the publishing game, but over the last few years, I’ve learned that some things don’t need full reinventions – just a splash of creative energy and personality to ensure it sticks out.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
The road has most definitely not been smooth. Looking back, it’s never a great idea to start a business just before a global health pandemic, and, if I’m honest with myself, we probably didn’t handle the situation as well as I would have liked. A domino effect grew regarding printer backup, shipment delays, customer service frustrations – the list is long. But on top of that, there is a learning curve with nearly any profession. Passion and energy can only get you so far; eventually, you have to step up and deliver. And when I was attempting to get Padlock off the ground, I immediately competed against literal billion-dollar publishing houses. The view from the floor was jarring, and without any product to showcase my talents, I had to figure out how to build confidence with people to ensure that I knew what I was doing. I cannot tell you how many emails I sent out before I got my first response, nor how many more I had to send before I got my first meeting. Just getting someone on the phone was a grind. Additionally, and I cannot stress this enough, publishing is expensive, especially when considering the large-scale distribution required. Straight out of the gate, we were a national company, and within three days, I had shipped a book to South Africa. The logistics are continuing to evolve, and I’m continuing to learn from them as we work to grow. I honestly feel that the second the road becomes smooth, it will be a sign that I’ve grown complacent and fallen behind the curve. I’ve learned that I push more when I’m uncomfortable, so a level road would make me a bit nervous.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a book publisher. Though I never shy away from a good story, I spend a lot of my energy seeking out platform artists/collaborators who have a unique voice and perspective. It’s hard not to notice the lack of diversity within the children’s book space, and that issue continues into YA and adult products. Padlock strives to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to see themselves within the pages of a good book, beginning with the youngest readers. We specialize in underrepresented stories featuring underrepresented characters. How you interpret underrepresented is entirely up to you; however, we are consciously working to make bookshelves more inclusive and representative of the world around us.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Know who you are, what you want, and where you need immediate help. Confidence is key. Also, when possible, have a sense of urgency. Speak up. Ask questions. I’m very fortunate as I often find myself networking without deliberately trying to network. Through this, I’ve developed some honest and genuine relationships that bear a business angle. I feel that when people deliberately set out to network, their actions lack authenticity. Technology has made us readily available, and therefore time is often limited. When someone does get the chance to help, they often gravitate towards those they share more than a work connection. Outside of that, always be moving. Reading a book, watching a new show, or even going for a walk – I’ve developed some of my best relationships at some truly random times. Have a sense of curiosity. Well-rounded knowledge and the ability to ask questions help break the ice when trying to formulate a conversation.
Contact Info:
- Email: stephen@padlockbookpublishing.com
- Website: http://padlockbookpublishing.com | http://bookbynia.com
- Instagram: @therealstephendavis and @padlockpublishing
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