Today we’d like to introduce you to Shavonna Bush.
Shavonna, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’ve been writing since my teenage years, back when I contributed to the teen section of our local newspaper and realized storytelling came naturally to me. From there, I went on to write articles for various magazines, newspapers, and community publications, always finding new ways to connect with people through words.
In 2015, I began editing for self-published authors. What started as helping writers clean up their manuscripts quickly grew into something deeper. By 2020, the pandemic shifted everything. My kindergartner bounced between in-person and virtual school due to constant outbreaks, and I took a sabbatical from my job at a law firm to support him at home. In that season of transition, my husband said the words that changed everything:
“You’re already doing the work, why not create your own publishing company?”
He was right. I would edit someone’s book, and immediately afterward, they’d need guidance with formatting, ISBNs, Amazon setup, cover design, and the entire publishing process. It only made sense to turn what I was already doing into something official.
That same year, I landed my first publishing client, and she flourished. Speaking engagements, podcast features, rave reviews, and a powerful impact followed her release. That success opened the door to Bush Legacy Publishing, and from there, everything expanded.
Today, I’ve helped countless authors bring their stories to life, from fantasy and sci-fi to memoirs, biographies, romance, inspirational works, children’s books, journals, and beyond. Whether a client brings me a rough idea or a finished manuscript, I help shape it into a book they can hold with pride.
Ghostwriting has become one of the most meaningful parts of my work. Stepping into someone’s story, honoring their voice, and writing it in a way that feels deeply personal is something I don’t take lightly. Helping people tell the story they’ve carried for years is a joy and a privilege.
Bush Legacy Publishing is more than editing and publishing; it’s guidance, clarity, branding, support, and walking authors step-by-step through a process that often feels overwhelming. I’m known for preserving each writer’s authentic voice while giving their work the polish and professionalism it deserves.
And as my clients often say, I don’t just publish books, I walk with them through the entire journey.
With experience across genres, successful launches on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, returning clients, and a passion for helping writers succeed, I can confidently say: This isn’t just a business. It’s my ministry. My passion. My legacy.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I wouldn’t say it’s been a smooth road, but it’s definitely been a road of growth. In publishing, the learning never stops. I’ve had to stay on top of evolving grammar rules, industry standards, and formatting expectations, from APA to MLA, Chicago Style, and the constantly shifting requirements of Amazon KDP and Barnes & Noble Press. Every update means going back, relearning, adjusting, and ensuring my clients receive the most accurate and up-to-date guidance.
Another challenge has been learning how to understand what a client needs, even when they don’t always know how to say it. Some writers come to me overwhelmed, embarrassed, or unsure of the process, and part of my job is to read between the lines, to know when they need clarity, encouragement, structure, or a gentle push to keep going.
I also had to learn how to balance everything: homeschooling, marriage, motherhood, and running a full publishing company from start to finish. There were moments when projects piled up, deadlines felt heavy, or my own confidence wavered. But every challenge taught me something that made me better, more patient, more disciplined, more organized, and more dedicated to the craft.
There were financial risks, moments of imposter syndrome, late nights formatting or rewriting entire sections, and times when I had to advocate for my worth as an editor and publisher. I had to learn how to protect my time, set boundaries, price my services correctly, and run a business with clarity, not just passion.
But despite every obstacle, I can look back and say this: each struggle shaped me into the publisher and professional I am today. It wasn’t always smooth, but it was necessary. And every challenge pushed me toward excellence, making the wins even more meaningful.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My work began in publishing, but over time it expanded into several other areas. Today, I support not only authors but also business owners, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs through publishing, marketing, and media services. I manage social media for various businesses, develop marketing strategies to increase visibility, and design websites, graphics, and branded materials to help my clients grow.
I am proud of how my business has grown from an idea into a thriving company. I have never advertised, yet I continue to receive a steady flow of clients through word of mouth. That tells me the work speaks for itself.
What sets me apart is the way I partner with my clients. I am hands-on from start to finish, guiding them through every step and making sure they feel supported, understood, and confident. I am known for preserving each person’s authentic voice while giving their work a polished, professional finish. Whether someone comes to me for a book, a website, a marketing plan, or social media support, I bring patience, expertise, and genuine care to every project.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I believe in taking risks that make sense and align with my purpose. One of the biggest risks I ever took was choosing not to return to corporate America and instead fully committing to entrepreneurship. As a new mom, I wanted time with my son and the freedom to build something meaningful. That meant trusting myself, working hard, and building a client base from the ground up.
For me, risk is not about being reckless. It is about believing in your gifts enough to invest in yourself. If I do not take a chance on my own abilities, then who will? Every risk I have taken has brought me closer to the life I want for my family and the work I love.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bushlegacypublishing.com
