Publishing Institute Alumna Leverages DU Experience to Launch Magazine

When Taylor Pittman first discovered the Denver Publishing Institute (DPI) in 2022, the timing wasn't right. Fresh out of college with an English degree from the University of North Texas and working in social media, she filed away the idea for another day. When DPI reached out to her in 2025, Pittman knew it was time to finally take the leap, driving 16 hours from north Texas to Denver to pursue a month-long immersive learning experience delving into the publishing world. 

Pittman’s decision to become part of the 2025 DPI cohort meant spending a month away from home for the first time, navigating Colorado on her own and diving into an industry that had always seemed like an enigma to her. 

"Books just appear, and we don't really know how they're made," Pittman said. "I didn't even realize how centralized publishing was in New York City until attending DPI." 

Fortunately, DPI delivered exactly what Pittman needed: practical insight into the mechanics of publishing and a clear path forward for someone based outside traditional industry hubs in the U.S. Before DPI, she had already interned at Iron Oaks Editions, an independent press, and The Writer's Workout, a nonprofit focused on editorial work. Those experiences gave her a glimpse into remote publishing operations; however, DPI provided comprehensive education and networking opportunities that turned curiosity into action for Pittman. 

Pittman noted publishing extraordinaire Karl Weber's weeklong intensive on acquisitions and editorial operations as particularly transformative during her time in the program. His deep dive into reader reports, editorial processes and hybrid publishing models reshaped Pittman's understanding of how books move from manuscript to market. Weber's approach to hybrid publishing — ethical, author-focused and sustainable — challenged her previous assumptions formed by less reputable operations in Texas. 

"Meeting Karl changed my idea of what hybrid publishing could look like," Pittman said. "If you're really determined and you have the connections to make things happen, you can make them happen." 

Pittman's most valuable lesson came through networking. Over four weeks, various DPI guest speakers consistently emphasized one message: don't be afraid to reach out, send emails and put yourself in front of people. That mindset sparked a transformation in Pittman's approach to the industry, building genuine relationships with peers who shared her vision for the future of the publishing field. 

During late-night conversations with roommates about opportunities for writers outside New York, an idea crystallized. By the end of her month-long stay in Denver, Pittman had conceptualized Rooted Literary Magazine, a literary platform originating from her existing StayRooted entertainment brand and dedicated to showcasing art, poetry, fiction, nonfiction, spoken word, music, and film that captures the full spectrum of human experience. Her editorial team of 54 volunteers consists of nine people she met at DPI. 

Since its inception this past summer, Rooted Literary Magazine has been thriving, with author interviews in development and plans for a physical creative space in Texas. Pittman's ultimate goal is to launch an independent press that champions Southern writers. 

"We're just as talented, just as creative, just as worthy of platforming," Pittman said. "I want to show people the community is out here." 

Readers can visit stayrooted.com to submit work or find opportunities within Rooted Literary Magazine. 

To learn more about the Denver Publishing Institute, visit liberalarts.du.edu/publishing.