I was first introduced to Harold Phifer through his book Surviving Chaos: How I Found Peace at a Beach Bar. It allowed readers to see how he dealt with challenges in life and made it on the other side. In 2025 he expanded his library, sharing not just the non-fiction book MY BULLY, MY AUNT AND HER FINAL GIFT but the fictional title FOOL ME THRIVE through his pen name Dean Conan. Through it out, Harold is able to share his love of sharing stories and finding readers around the world.
Harold, it’s great to have you as one of our features for Conversations’ Books You Need to Read Edition. When did you realize that writing was something you wanted to do?
My life was highly unusual but underneath it all I wanted to tell others about it. So, day after day I would envision how I would deliver my journey. The more I talked to myself about my situation the more I began to feel I could put together real and imagine concepts together.
You have been able to share aspects of your life and life lessons through your work. What has it been like to see readers connect with you through your experiences?
It’s been amazing! Even though I felt I had something that would touch others, I wasn’t sure it would connect with those that couldn’t relate. But readers love a good book and took to the way I relayed my history.
You have had the privilege of traveling around the world. How has that changed your perspective of what it possible in life?
My travels made me realized I wasn’t poor compared to others in undeveloped countries. It made me complain even less. Eventually, it left me with only one gripe versus others who was less fortunate. That being my mom schizophrenia. After all things being said, it pointed to 'Harold just gets over it!'
Outside of the books you write under your name, you are able to also create characters under your penname Dean Conan. What led to this decision?
It’s a good hard escape! It’s a chance to be creative and venture into a world I was never a part of. So, in a sense, life and dating may not be how I projected it for my character Charlie Mo; but it’s fun to build that world and those dynamics around The Fools Gold Chronicles.
Your characters are also going through life, trying to figure things out. Do you think that is what has made them so entertaining and relatable?
For sure! Charlie Mo lost everything (family, money), and even his Loverboy mojo. A lot of people in real life are struggling to put together success, love, and family.
Social media is one of the ways you are able to connect with readers and the world. How has that helped you to expand your reach?
With social media, I get to be in a so many places, lots of threads, and constant conversations that otherwise wouldn’t be possible. Mind you, I try to instruct my subscribers, followers, and the audience to constantly “Like and Share” my content because they are helping to reach readers, communities, organizations, and book clubs at a level I could never afford.
What should we expect next from either Dean Conan or you?
Under Dean Conan, I’m hoping to drop the trilogy to “The Fool’s Gold Chronicles.” As for Harold Phifer, I do have another personal story to release. Then, I’m hoping to do my first fiction under Harold Phifer.
Any advice you would like to share, Harold, for those looking to start their own writing career?
Just start writing and keeping notes. Amazing when you sleep, stories and scenarios will flow through your head. As soon as you’re awake, jot down the things you remember. That itch will come. It may take a ton of drafts and a long time in months and years to formulate your story, but eventually you will get there. Remember to always believe in yourself and don’t let the criticism get you down.
Thanks for your time and congratulations again on your success. How can our readers stay connected with you?
Thank you as well! First, I hope all listeners will Like and Share my content as it appears in your social media. Next, my website: RiseAndRead.com. While on my website, make sure to subscribe or just reach out and make contact. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or leave suggestions.
My social media: (Facebook and Instagram): HaroldPhifer2024
Twitter (X): @hephifer
Tik Tok: @hephifer6
YouTube: Harold Phifer
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