Behind-the-Scenes of Red Hen: A Conversation with Mark Cull

By Lizzy Young

We want to give you a behind-the-scenes peek into how Red Hen Press operates! So, over the next few months, we are doing a recurring series on the blog with the amazing people who make up Red Hen. We will be publishing interviews with each staff member where they will talk about themselves, their job, and how they fit into the publishing operation at Red Hen.

First up, we have a conversation with Red Hen’s Publisher and Chief Operating Officer, Mark E. Cull.

Mark E. Cull closely manages the Production, Design, and Accounting departments and works with the Board of Directors. As Publisher, he acts as Red Hen Press’s art director and supervises all book layouts and cover designs. Mark is responsible for all production and operation decisions.

Lizzy Young: What are your primary responsibilities at Red Hen Press?

Mark Cull: Publisher, which means I am the artistic director, in charge of publications agreements, production, and accounts.

LY: How would you describe your job in three words?

MC: Design Better Books

LY: What is it like running a small press?

MC: Seeking the under-appreciated and being under-appreciated for doing it.

LY: What is the most surprising thing about your job?

MC: The authors.

LY: What goes into a cover design for a book?

MC: Everyone’s soul.

LY: How do you try to differentiate your books from others on the shelves?

MC: I want our books to be even better. On average, our interior book designs are among the best in the country.

LY: What are you currently reading?

MC: Drive Your Plow Over The Bones of the Dead by Olga Tokarczuk (a novel)

This conversation has been Mark’s brief take on being the publisher and COO of Red Hen Press. Drop questions in the comments about Red Hen and its operations below. Then check back for more interviews with Red Hen staff members coming soon!