The Spark Has Caught: Igniting the Second Act

It has been a while since I last wrote. In my previous post, "From Dots to Triumphs," I talked about connecting the dots of my life to form a picture of what comes next.

For the last few weeks, the Foundry has been quiet on the outside, but inside, the fires have been burning hot. We moved from connecting dots to building foundations. And today, I am proud to say that the "Second Act" is no longer just a theory.

It is a reality you can hold in your hands.

The First Book is Here

This week, I experienced one of the most profound moments of this entire journey. I sat with Trish Ginther (trWolf) and watched her hold the very first proof copy of her debut book, Learn To Grow: Life Skills for Teens.

Trish isn’t just a "senior." She is a poet, a mother, and now, a published author. Her book is a guide to resilience and self-sufficiency that the world desperately needs. Seeing her wisdom go from notes to a professionally published trade paperback proved everything I believed about this mission: Creativity has no expiration date.

Art in Motion: Juanita Buckles

While we celebrate Trish’s book launch, the Foundry is also igniting the visual arts. Juanita Buckles, a talented artist who paints to find her "Happy Place," is now officially in the shop.

We aren't waiting for the future; we are launching it now. You can support Juanita today by bringing her vibrant, resilient energy into your daily life. We have just released a curated collection of her signature works:

• Carry the Art: The "My Happy Place" Eco Tote Bag is live.

• Transform Your Space: Her stunning "Summer Fun" Poster and "My Happy Place" Art Print are available for order.

Every purchase directly supports Juanita and proves that art is a vital form of human connection.

The Lighter Side: NBGee Charters

The Foundry isn't just about serious art and memoirs; it's about listening to our neighbors. Sometimes, that means publishing a book on resilience. Other times? It means fulfilling a request for a fishing buddy.

By popular demand from "Big John," we’ve launched the NBGee Charters collection. It’s fun, it’s irreverent, and it features our legendary Alien Captain.

• For the Fisherman: Check out the hilarious "The Big Catch" Poster—perfect for the garage or man cave.

It’s a reminder that while our mission is serious, we never forget to have fun along the way.

Igniting New Narratives

NBGee Foundry was built on the belief that everyone has a vital story to tell, but not everyone has the platform to tell it. We are changing that.

We have officially launched NBGee Publishing with a crowdfunding campaign to fund our entire 2025 slate. We are raising funds to produce Trish's full print run, expand Juanita's art projects, and launch a photography collection by Chuck Alexander.

We are calling this campaign "Ignite New Narratives."

Why? Because these stories have been sitting in boxes, in drawers, and in the minds of my neighbors for too long. They are ready to catch fire. But a fire needs fuel.

Join the Founding Family

We are looking for Founding Supporters to help us bridge the gap between "manuscript" and "market." By backing our Indiegogo campaign, you aren't just buying a book; you are proving that independent voices matter.

How you can be part of this chapter:

1. Back the Campaign: Visit ignite.nbgee.com to secure a signed First Edition of Learn To Grow or limited-edition art.

2. Read the Book: Order an early-access copy of Trish's book directly at grow.nbgee.com.

3. Shop the Art: Visit the shop to see Juanita's latest releases (and the Alien Captain!).

From a fishing boat captained by a fish to the quiet resilience of a grandmother’s advice, we are building a universe of real stories.

Thank you for being part of the spark.

— George Bowden Founder and CEO, NBGee Foundry