We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Nury Crawford a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Nury, thanks for joining us today. Coming up with the idea is so exciting, but then comes the hard part – executing. Too often the media ignores the execution part and goes from idea to success, skipping over the nitty, gritty details of executing in the early days. We think that’s a disservice both to the entrepreneurs who built something amazing as well as the public who isn’t getting a realistic picture of what it takes to succeed. So, we’d really appreciate if you could open up about your execution story – how did you go from idea to execution?
I always knew I wanted to write a book—but I also knew I wanted to do it on my own terms. I began researching publishers, from small independents to large national houses, hoping to find a partner who believed in bilingual storytelling the way I did. Instead, I kept hearing the same thing repeated back to me: “Bilingual books don’t sell.”
That sentence didn’t discourage me—it clarified my mission. I wasn’t writing to chase sales trends. I was writing because I knew my story mattered, and I knew there were countless families like mine who deserved to see themselves reflected on the page.
So I took a different route. I met with a literary attorney to better understand the publishing landscape and what it would take to protect my creative vision. That single meeting gave me the clarity I needed: I didn’t just want to publish a book—I wanted to build something bigger. I decided to create my own publishing company.
From there, the real work began. I dove in headfirst—attending workshops, signing up for online courses, and networking with writers, illustrators, attorneys, and other publishers. I watched, listened, asked questions, and took notes. Many of the people I met along the way were incredibly generous with their insight and encouragement, and I’m still grateful for that.
About a year later, I released my very first bilingual book. That same year, we published three additional authors—proof that there was not just room for these stories, but a real need for them.
What began as a personal goal evolved into a mission-driven business. Since then, it’s been a journey filled with growth, learning, success, and the joy of supporting other writers and creatives who also believe that representation in literature is not optional—it’s essential.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am an immigrant, an educator of over 20 years, an author, and now the founder of 1010 Publishing, a mission-driven publishing house dedicated to elevating bilingual and culturally inclusive stories. I entered this industry not because I saw a clear path—but because I didn’t. As a Latina author trying to publish my first book, I was told more than once that “bilingual books don’t sell.” Hearing that affirmed something powerful in me: there was a gap in the industry, and I was meant to help fill it.
I created 1010 Publishing with two intentional pillars:
1. Traditional Publishing – Elevating Voices That Deserve to Be Seen
We publish bilingual and diverse books that reflect the realities, cultures, and languages of our communities. Our goal is simple but deeply meaningful: to put books into the world where children and families finally see themselves represented with dignity and authenticity. We guide authors through editing, design, production, and distribution—not just as a publisher, but as a partner who genuinely believes in their voice.
2. Consulting & Educational Support – Guiding Writers and Organizations with Strategy and Clarity
The consulting arm of 1010 Publishing was born out of demand. Aspiring authors, nonprofits, and educational leaders began asking for direction—not just on how to publish, but how to lead, market, communicate, and build meaningful impact. Through consulting, I offer strategic guidance, manuscript development support, workshops, speaking sessions, and customized coaching on storytelling, literacy engagement, community communication, and publishing pathways.
The Problems We Solve
We help authors who feel overlooked by mainstream publishing find a clear, accessible pathway to publication.
We empower organizations and educators who want to use storytelling and literacy as tools for community engagement.
We remove the confusion from the publishing process—because access to information should not be a barrier to sharing your story.
We provide culturally responsive guidance, especially for multilingual and first-generation authors, creatives, and leaders.
What Sets Us Apart
We are not just a company—we are a movement built around representation, empowerment, and practical strategy. 1010 Publishing is deeply relational. We don’t just produce books or offer consulting sessions; we create safe spaces where people feel seen, equipped, and encouraged to dream bigger.
What I’m Most Proud Of
I’m proud that our authors are real people from real communities who never thought their words would be in print. I’m proud that schools use our books to spark conversations about identity. And I’m proud that through consulting, I’ve been able to help writers, nonprofits, and educators build confidence, clarity, and momentum in their own journeys.
If You’re Just Meeting 1010 Publishing Today, Here’s What I Want You to Know:
We believe that your story matters.
We believe representation is a responsibility.
And we believe that with the right support, every writer, educator, or leader can move from idea to execution—with dignity, cultural pride, and confidence.
Any advice for managing a team?
For me, leading a team—especially project-based team members, creatives and professionals—comes down to one core value: trust. I don’t believe in micromanaging. In fact, I always say, “If I have to watch every step you take, I might as well do it myself.” I value people’s creative process, and I respect that everyone has their own rhythm and workflow. I don’t care if someone works at 2 PM or 2 AM—as long as we honor our deadlines and deliver excellence.
Because we operate with flexibility, communication becomes even more important. Clear expectations, mutual respect, and accountability are non-negotiables. If you’re part of the 1010 Publishing team, you understand that our work represents more than just a product—we are carrying someone’s story, someone’s cultural voice. That elevates the responsibility and the pride in our work.
I strongly believe that morale is built through relationships. I send holiday cards, random “checking in” messages, a quick text just to say, “Hey, I appreciate you.” Those gestures matter. They remind people they are seen—not just for what they produce, but for who they are. Respect is the foundation of that relationship.
When people feel trusted, valued, and respected, they show up with their best ideas and highest effort. That’s how we maintain both excellence and heart in this work.
How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?
When it came to funding 1010 Publishing, there was no outside investor, no grant, no silent partner—I funded it myself. I used my personal savings because, at the end of the day, I believed in the vision enough to take the risk personally. Yes, I was nervous, but I kept coming back to one thought: If I don’t invest in myself, how can I expect anyone else to believe in this mission?
Using my own resources made every decision intentional. It wasn’t just about starting a business—it was about making a statement. I was willing to bet on myself and on the belief that bilingual books, diverse voices, and underrepresented creatives deserve a platform. That personal investment set the tone for the company: we lead with conviction, purpose, and a deep understanding that our work has impact.
It wasn’t just a financial investment—it was an act of self-belief, and that mindset continues to guide how I lead and how we grow.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.1010Publishing.com
- Instagram: @1010Publishing
- Facebook: @1010Publishing
Image Credits
1010 Publishing