From Classroom to Published Author: The Inspiring Journey of Adrian Hurtado
In this engaging episode of The Neil Haley Show, Neil sits down with author and former educator Adrian Hurtado, who shares his remarkable journey from a lifelong love of writing to becoming a published author later in life.At 78 years old, Adrian proves that it’s never too late to pursue your calling. From winning writing contests as a child to inspiring students as a fifth-grade teacher—and eventually stepping into authorship after retirement—this conversation is a masterclass in persistence, purpose, and passion.👤 About the Guest – Adrian HurtadoAdrian Hurtado is a retired educator turned author who has written multiple books, including children’s literature and works across other genres. His background in education deeply influenced his storytelling, particularly his passion for writing books that inspire young readers.
- Former elementary school teacher (primarily 5th grade)
- Lifelong writer and contest winner in his youth
- Began publishing books post-retirement
- Advocate for creativity, literacy, and lifelong learning
🔥 Key Topics & Takeaways✍️ A Lifelong Passion for WritingAdrian didn’t just “start” writing later in life—he’s been doing it since childhood.
- Won multiple writing contests in school
- Always had a natural love for storytelling
- Encouraged writing in his own classroom as a teacher
👉 Lesson: The seeds of success are usually planted early—you just have to come back and water them.🎓 From Educator to AuthorAfter a full career in education, Adrian transitioned into writing full-time.
- Spent decades teaching and inspiring students
- Used retirement as an opportunity—not an ending
- Finally committed to publishing after years of experience
👉 Truth is… most people wait for the “perfect time.” He just decided it was time.📚 Why Children’s Books?His teaching background naturally led him into children’s literature.
- Loved reading with and to his students
- Understood how kids engage with stories
- Wanted to create meaningful, educational content
👉 Old-school thinking here—and it’s right:
If you understand your audience, your content hits harder.🚧 The Real Challenge: Getting PublishedAdrian doesn’t sugarcoat it—writing is one thing, publishing is another.
- Coming up with ideas was a hurdle early on
- Breaking into publishing took persistence
- The process required patience and consistency
👉 Bottom line: Talent helps… but sticking with it is what wins.⏳ It’s Never Too LateThis might be the biggest takeaway of the entire episode.
- Started publishing seriously after retirement
- Has now been writing for over 20 years
- Still actively creating and sharing stories
👉 Let’s be honest…
Most people quit before they even start. Adrian didn’t.💡 Standout Moments
- “I always enjoyed writing as a child…” → The origin story that never left
- Transitioning from teacher to author after retirement
- The honest reality of how hard publishing really is
- The impact of teaching on storytelling ability
🎯 Who This Episode Is For
- Aspiring authors (especially those later in life)
- Educators looking to expand into writing
- Parents and teachers interested in children’s books
- Anyone sitting on a dream they’ve been “waiting” to start
🚀 Final ThoughtsAdrian Hurtado is proof of something simple—but powerful:You don’t need permission.
You don’t need perfect timing.
You just need to start… and keep going.Most people talk about writing a book.
He actually did it—and kept doing it.
