54: The Power of Surrender: Naomi D. Williams on Writing a Book Born in the NICU
This is a special episode for me. In 2017, as I first stepped into freelance writing, Naomi reached out, looking for support in transforming her 2009 journal entries into a book. I didn't set out to work on books, but the work found me — and I'm so glad it did.
Listen in as I chat with Naomi D. Williams, the author of And God Remembered Noah: A mother’s heart-opening journey through 22 weeks in the NICU.
Naomi shares how her book came about from the raw, real-time journal entries she wrote while her son, Noah, a micro-preemie born at 26 weeks, spent five months in the NICU. We talk about the challenging process of revisiting those honest entries eight years later, and how important it was to maintain her original, authentic language — curse words and all — to serve both parents and medical providers.
We also dive into the beautiful, adventurous life she and Noah share now, including his numerous marathons and triathlons. Naomi shares the incredible origin story of NoahLand Art — her son's abstract art business, where "everyone belongs."
Finally, we discuss her current writing practice, giving herself permission to write what feels dark as well as light, and the freedom found in surrender and a non-linear writing process
Hear about:
The Book’s Origin: And God Remembered Noah was written from raw, real-time journal entries Naomi kept while her son was in the NICU. She organized the book into 22 chapters, mirroring the 22 weeks he spent there.
The Dual Purpose: The book's goal is twofold: to let parents know all their emotions are real and they're not alone, and to give providers an authentic perspective on the parent experience.
Authenticity Over Polish: Naomi chose not to edit the original journal entries years later to maintain transparency, even though she became a different person through the experience.
Writing Wisdom: If you're considering writing a book from your journal entries, Naomi urges you to just "do it."
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to Today's Guest: Naomi Williams
00:12 Naomi's Journey to Becoming an Author
01:59 The Birth of Naomi's Book
07:19 Challenges and Emotions in Writing
17:45 The Impact of Naomi's Work
21:57 Adventures with Noah
23:23 The Importance of Teamwork in Travel
24:38 Noah's Artistic Journey & Noahland Art
28:17 Early Reading and Writing Experiences
31:44 The Writing Process and Overcoming Challenges
35:21 The Impact of Publishing and Future Projects
39:45 Encouragement for Aspiring Writers
41:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Meet Naomi D. Williams
Naomi D. Williams is a Life Doula and Grief Coach who supports parents and family caregivers as they navigate the complex systems that accompany a life-altering medical diagnosis. As the mother of a micro-preemie given a poor prognosis, Naomi models what a good quality of life looks like despite severe neurological impairment and medical complexities. She is an author, an avid traveler who enjoys naps, getting lost in nature, and taking long, deep breaths on her yoga mat.
Key Links:
Buy Naomi's Book: And God Remembered Noah: A mother’s heart-opening journey through 22 weeks in the NICU
Naomi's Website: exceptionalliving101.org
Noahland Art Website: noahland.art
