Murder, Mystery & Mayhem Laced with Morality

With the DNA of a world traveler, D.J. Williams was born and raised in Hong Kong, igniting an adventurous spirit as he ventured into the jungles of the Amazon, the bush of Africa, and the slums of the Far East. His global travels have submerged him in a myriad of cultures, providing a unique perspective that fuels his creativity.As a fresh voice in mystery, suspense, and YA fantasy, his novels have climbed the charts ranking as high as #1 on Amazon Hot New Releases. His books The Auctioneer and Hunt For Eden's Star have received stellar reviews from Kirkus Reviews, the most trusted voice in book discovery. Williams has also been featured in Publishers Weekly and Writer's Digest. With the launch of his latest YA series, Beacon Hill, the trailers and documentary featuring the first book, Hunt For Eden's Star, and the second book, Secrets of the Highlands, have reached over 1.8 million+ views. Beacon Hill is also currently under optioning consideration for film, television, streaming, and animation by the producers, production companies, and studios who have created the most successful YA franchises of all time.Williams has also been an executive producer and director on over 500 episodes of broadcast television.Make sure to check out this AMAZING AUTHOR on Instagram @djwilliamsbooks

Lori B. Duff is a recovering lawyer and an unrepentant proponent of the Oxford Comma and the two-spaces-after-a-period rule. She is a sought-after ghostwriter who lives outside of Atlanta with her rescue dog, her husband, and two empty bedrooms, which used to house her adult children.You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google Podcast, or visit my website www.drkatherinehayes.com

BRIAN D. ANDERSON is the fantasy author of The Godling Chronicles, Dragonvein, and Akiri (with Steven Savile) series. After a fifteen-year-long career in music, he rediscovered his boyhood love of writing. His current series is The Sorcerer's Song, a trilogy for Tor Books. Brian lives in the sleepy southern town of Fairhope, Alabama with his wife and son, who inspire him daily.Make sure to check out this author: Brian D. Anderson

With 17 years of experience in selling, coaching, and mentoring, along with over 12 years dedicated to leveraging Amazon's Fulfilled By Amazon (FBA) platform for private label brands, this expert has been a successful entrepreneur and business owner since 2007. Since 2012, they have helped clients move millions of units through Amazon using proven methodologies. Before venturing into the world of Amazon sales, they held an executive position at a tech company, contributing to innovation with patents in the oil and gas industry. Their journey in the online marketplace began with affiliate marketing, where their marketing and lead generation strategies were instrumental in helping a company secure Series A funding. After five years as a knowledge management consultant at IBM, they took the leap to start their own series of companies in 2007.Throughout their coaching and consulting career, this professional has positively impacted over 1,000 individuals and currently supports more than 200 clients within their organization, Voltage Holdings. This company owns software, private label brands, and operates a coaching program known as Voltage Business Builders, designed for authors and sellers at all levels—from beginners to those achieving 8-figure sales annually on Amazon FBA. They focus on cultivating business owners and scaling their ventures using the company as an incubator.Moreover, Voltage Holdings actively engages in buying and selling Amazon FBA companies, holding them for growth and scalability as part of a wealth-building strategy without the constraints of traditional walls. Authors looking to increase their book sales can benefit significantly from the insights and expertise offered by this successful entrepreneur.Make sure to check out this author on Instagram @NeilTwa

Josh Mendoza is a screenwriter, director, producer, and author.  Mendoza is the founder of Strike the Sun Entertainment, and his movie work has been recognized by film festivals and competitions alike. He is best known for his feature film, WHAT STILL REMAINS, which he wrote, directed, and produced. Decider called the movie a “great follow-up to Bird Box” and described it as a “hidden gem” on Netflix. The Los Angeles Times said, “Writer-director Josh Mendoza finds a fresh angle on the post-apocalyptic thriller,” creating a “fascinating ‘what-if' imagining society's possible future.”Mendoza's debut novel, SHADOW OF THE ETERNAL WATCHER, released on January 28, 2025. The novel is a noir detective mystery that spirals into a science fiction adventure. The novel has already received positive reviews from Library Journal, Booklist, and Kirkus Reviews. It was recently featured as one of the best upcoming sci-fi books for 2025 in New Scientist.Make sure to check out this author on his website—https://www.joshmendoza.com/You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google Podcast, or visit my website www.drkatherinehayes.com

Tong Ge was born and raised in China and moved to Canada in 1988. She began writing the China China trilogy in 2004 with the first book: The House Filler. Although she was challenged by learning to write in English and by her long- term disability, she persevered and since 2012 has published poetry and prose in English and Chinese in publications such as Prism, Ricepaper, Flow, Canadian Stories, and The Polyglot. Tong Ge lives in Calgary, Alberta. Make sure to check out this author on her website https://tong-ge.com/You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google Podcast, or visit my website www.drkatherinehayes.com

A keen student of the natural world and the workings of the human heart, Pacific Northwest author Cheryl Grey Bostrom captures the mystery and wonder of both in her lyrical, riveting fiction. Her novels Sugar Birds (Christy finalist, Amazon bestseller, and Book of the Year) and Leaning on Air have won more than two dozen industry honors, among which are CT's Fiction Award of Merit and American Fiction, Reader's Favorite, ACFW Carol, Nautilus, Best Book, Foreword Indies, and International Book Awards.An avid birder and nature photographer, Cheryl lives in rural Washington State with her husband and three irrepressible Gordon setters.Make sure to check out this author on Instagram @cherylgreybostrom

James Bow — author, urban planner, and lifelong storyteller! James brings a deep love for writing coming-of-age stories filled with wonder, fear, and triumph. You won't want to miss his insights into weaving mystery and heart into young adult fiction! About James: Born in downtown Toronto, raised in Kitchener, James is an accomplished author whose passion for the written word has remained constant through his varied career. Discover more at bowjamesbow.ca! Listen now: https://open.spotify.com/show/4zWmZckdnPsYG9CUAKkv1p?si=DbTd_22XQUulJZzVQZ5hJw&pi=7tOs_-jORRy5d #JamesBow #MurderMystery&MayhemLacedWithMorality

Breakfield, is a 25+ year technology expert in security, networking, voice, and anything digital. He enjoys writing, studying World War II history, travel, and cultural exchanges. He also enjoys wine tastings, wine-making, Harley riding, cooking extravaganzas, and woodworking.He creates award-winning stories that resonate with males and females, young and experienced adults, and bring a fresh new view to technology possibilities today https://www.EnigmaSeries.com.Make sure to check out this episode

Belinda Betker is a prairie-born poet living in Saskatoon with her Australian wife and their rescue dog, a springer-spaniel/terrier cross. The first edition of her poetry collection Phases was a 2020 finalist for two Saskatchewan Book Awards. Belinda's poetry and award-winning haiku are also published on-line and in various anthologies, literary journals, and chapbooks. Belinda is a founding member of two long-running Saskatoon writing groups, Sisters' Ink and The Obsessors. She was also a founding and long-time board member of the Saskatoon Writers' Collective.Stay in touch with Belinda: https://www.belindabetker.com/

In 2017, Randi published her first book about mental health awareness (Thoughts of a Wanderer) and knew this was what she was meant to do. While publishing her second book (A Mother's Truth), she was diagnosed with cancer. Taking a break from writing and focusing on recovery. Since then, she has expanded her writing to include other nonfiction books, children's books, social stories, draw-your-own-story series, scary stories, and more.Randi is available for speaking opportunities and has spoken on various vital topics parenting, SS. She brings high energy to the audience and encourages inclusiveness. Connect with her on her website at: https://www.rbwriting.ca/sample-page/Or on Instagram at @randileebowslaugh.

J.M. Shaw lives in Airdrie, Alberta, with her husband and two young children. She and her family embarked upon a journey of understanding, acceptance, and life-long learning when they discovered their shared diagnosis of autism and ADHD. Writing is her passion and, with experience and interests in healthcare, psychology, martial arts, and personal training, she pours her unique insights and knowledge into all her creative fictions.

Mark Morton is a Canadian author. He is best known for non-fiction books and articles on language, history, and food culture. He is also the co-founder of the Winnipeg International Writers Festival and former writer and broadcaster for CBC Radio One.Morton has written four nonfiction books, including one novel: The Headmasters.Connect with Dr. Mark on Instagram @markstevenmorton on the podcast.

Russell G. Little is a writer and practicing divorce attorney. Murder for Me is a fictionalized compilation of the many people he's encountered over his lifetime and thirty-two-year career.He lives in Houston, Texas, with his wife of thirty-two years, Melinda.Connect with Russell on his website—www.russelllittleauthor.com

Dr. Randy Overbeck is an award-winning educator, author, speaker and podcaster. As an educator, he served children for more than three decades and has mined that experience to create captivating fiction, authoring two series, the bestselling series, “The Haunted Shores Mysteries,” and the award-winning series, “Lessons in Peril.” His novels have won critical acclaim and garnered national awards including Mystery of the Year (ReaderViews) Best Book Award (Chanticleer Books and Reviews) and the Gold Award (Literary Titan) and amassed hundreds of 5-star reviews on Amazon and Goodreads. Dr. Overbeck also hosts the popular podcast, “Great Stories about Great Storytellers,” which reveals the unusual and sometimes strange backstories of famous authors, directors and poets and can be heard wherever listeners get their podcasts. He is a speaker in considerable demand, sharing his popular presentations about ghosts and the world of book publishing with hundreds of audiences all over the U.S. As a member of the Mystery Writers of America, Dr. Overbeck is an active member of the literary community, contributing to a writers' critique group, serving as a mentor to emerging writers and participating in writing conferences such as Killer Nashville and the Midwest Writers Workshop.When he's not researching, writing, speaking or podcasting, Randy enjoys traveling with his wife Cathy and visiting both his far-flung family and the scenic locations around this country, often in search of inspiration for his next great story. Stay in touch with Dr. Overbeck on Instagram @authorrandyoverbeck

Tricia Copeland believes in finding magic. She thinks magic infuses every aspect of our lives, whether it is the magic of falling in love, discovering a new passion, viewing a beautiful sunset, or reading a book that transports us to another world. An avid runner and Georgia native, Tricia now lives with her family and four-legged friends in Colorado. Find all her titles from contemporary romance, now penned under Maria Jane, and fantasy, to dystopian fiction at www.triciacopeland.com. Connect with Tricia on Instagram @authortriciacopeland

In GAVEL TO GAVEL, a wealthy businessman is murdered by his wife. The only eyewitness is their nine-year-old disabled daughter. Her testimony is the key to the case. Top prosecutor Mac MacIntyre is calm and confident and relies on his courtroom cunning to maneuver through a maze of office politics, the bright glare of the media spotlight and his own thorny ethical dilemmas. The story follows Mac as he navigates from the crime scene investigation to the selection of the jury, to fierce cross-examination, to a surprising jury verdict.GAVEL TO GAVEL was published by Paper Raven Books in 2023 and has garnered many positive reviews.  His next book in THE SENECA COUNTY COURTHOUSE SERIES is titled DOUBLE BLIND, and features another murder trial with elements of police and judicial corruption.    

Writer. Teacher. Lifelong learnerBrandi Bradley is an indie author and educator who lives in the great city of Atlanta. She writes short stories and novels about crime, family drama, flea markets, cowboys, rowdy girls, and gossip. Brandi Bradley has had short stories and essays published in Juked, Louisiana Literature, Carve, and Nashville Review.She teaches writing at Kennesaw State University.

N.D. Testa is a fantasy author who conjures immersive worlds filled with magic, mystery, and adventure. With a focus on inspiring hope, her stories transport readers to realms of wonder and possibility.When not lost in the pages of her imagination, she's an avid fitness enthusiast, fashion lover, and animal advocate. From snowboarding the slopes to exploring new cultures,N.D. Testa finds inspiration everywhere. She believes in the power of books to change lives and is committed to crafting tales that resonate with readers of all ages. At night she enjoys being by the fire with a cup of tea in her hands.

Award-winning author Lee Lindauer has a BS in Architectural Engineering and a MS in Civil Engineering and was a principal of a consulting structural engineering firm he founded in Western Colorado. He is a member of the International Thriller Writers, has appeared on author panels at ThrillerFest and has served as co-editor on the Big Thrill magazine. He and his wife Teri divide their time between Colorado and Nevada.

“The Girl Who Changed the World” is an entrancing narrative written by Machiel Hoek that you'd be drawn to devour in a single sitting. It walks in the footsteps of “Alice in Wonderland”, “Sophie's World”, “The Celestine Prophecy” and “The Alchemist”. The inspiration behind this book is a tale of its own. From his early days, Machiel Hoek felt destined to unravel the secret of life. Guided by a profound inner calling, Machiel pivoted in his life's direction nine years ago, devoting himself to this tale. Now, he's ready to share it with the world. Stay in touch with this author @machielhoek or https://machielhoek.nl/

Exciting News! This Sunday, January 19th, I'll be joined by the incredible on the podcast. AS A FORENSIC CPA, PATRICIA HARTMAN experiences suspense, drama and intrigue in her everyday professional life. She has been uncovering lies, deceptions and criminal activity as part of her regular practice for over 25 years. Patricia weaves her life experiences into captivating plots that expose the evil that trap otherwise innocent people in very dark places.  Patricia's first novel, "Poisoned," won third place in the Selah awards. She has extensively traveled to and researched Wild West Virginia, interviewing law enforcement, prosecuting attorneys, veterinarians and common folk to gain insight into making this an amazing fiction series. Patricia lives in Florida with her husband, one happily married son and daughter-in-law, and one perfect grandson.  Patricia can be found at www.PatriciaHartmanAuthor.com or on Instagram @hartman8138

Helena Smrcek is an award-winning author, screenwriter, public speaker, and writing coach. ✨ Helena is renowned for her thrilling and heartwarming stories, with over three decades of experience in publishing. She's a co-founder of Write!Canada and The Word Guild, and her expertise in writing, marketing, and branding has inspired countless writers. 

Debra Gaskill is the former managing editor of the Washington Court House (Ohio) Record-Herald.  She was an award-winning journalist for more than 20 years, writing for a number of Ohio newspapers covering the cops and courts beat, and the Associated Press, covering any stories thrown her way. During her tenure at the Record-Herald, the paper earned two Associated Press General Excellence awards. Gaskill brings her knowledge of newspapers to her Jubilant Falls series. The bools 'Barn Burner' (2009), 'The Major's Wife' (2010), 'Lethal Little Lies' (2013), 'Murder on the Lunatic Fringe' (2014) and 'Death of A High Maintenance Blonde' (2014) all center around crimes committed in the fictional small town Jubilant Falls, Ohio, and often center around the damage family secrets can do. 'The Major's Wife' received honorable mention in the 2011 Writer's Digest Self-Published Book Awards and 'Barn Burner' was a finalist for the Silver Falchion Award at Killer Nashville.  Her novel, 'Counterfeit Life' (2020) returns tangentially to Jubilant Falls, and those familiar characters. Her Fracktown Gumshoe series  features retired cop turned private investigator Niccolo Fitzhugh.The series brings her cops and courts experience together in a mystery that "creates complex characters and places them in real settings" according to customer reviews on Amazon.com.  Gaskill has an associates degree in liberal arts from Thomas Nelson Community College (now Virginia Peninsula Community College) in Hampton, Va., a bachelor's degree in English and journalism from Wittenberg University and a master of fine arts in creative writing from Antioch University, Yellow Springs. She and her husband Greg, a retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, have two children and three grandchildren. They raise llamas and alpacas on their farm in Enon, Ohio. You can also connect with her at https://www.debragaskillnovels.com/

Dale T. Phillips has published novels, over 80 short stories, collections, articles, jokes, and poetry, Stephen King was Dale's college writing teacher, and since then, Dale has found time to appear on stage, television, radio, in an independent feature film, and compete on Jeopardy (losing in a spectacular fashion). He's a member of the Mystery Writers of America and the Sisters in Crime. He's traveled to all 50 states, Mexico, Canada, and through Europe. He worked for over thirty years as a Technical Writer in a number of major industries, translating the work of software developers into clear instructions for using computer software. Before that, he's worked as a farm laborer, entrepreneurial bait salesman, yard worker, golf course pro shop assistant, factory assembler, clean room machine operator, holiday Santa, construction worker, hotel worker, office assistant, theater apprentice, busboy, waiter, bartender, wine steward, assistant maitre'd, website designer, lab experiment subject, and blackjack dealer.

Check out an exciting conversation with award-winning author Elise Burke Brown! From growing up in a family of detectives to crafting captivating investigator thrillers, Elise's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Her debut novel, Chase Harlem, has garnered prestigious awards, including the 2023 Killer Nashville Claymore Award, and is now part of an exciting series with Rising Action Publishing. We'll dive into her writing process, the influence of her true crime-filled childhood, her upcoming thriller High Tides and Homicides, and how she balances teaching, blogging, and 

Mel Harrison is an amazing author whose story will inspire and uplift you. Don't miss this special episode as we dive  into “overcoming adversity as an author” After graduating from the University of Maryland with a degree in Economics, Mel Harrison joined the US Department of State Foreign Service, spending the majority of his career in the Diplomatic Security Service. Over the next 28 years, he served in American embassies as either a Special Agent/Regional Security officer or Economic Officer in Saigon, Quito, Rome, London (twice), Islamabad, and Seoul. While in Islamabad, as the Senior Regional Security Officer, he won both the State Department Award for Valor, and its worldwide Regional Security Officer of the Year Award. Following government retirement, Mel spent ten years in corporate security and consulting work with assignments often taking him throughout Latin America and the Middle East. Mel met his wife, Irene, while both served in Quito. Irene, a Foreign Service Management Specialist, and Mel married in Rome, beginning their lifelong love of travel and all things Italian. They now reside in Florida. Mel can be contacted at melharrison.author@gmail.com

In this electrifying episode of Murder, Mystery, and Mayhem Laced with Morality, we sit down with award-winning thriller and horror author Marie Still (@mariestillwrites). From Tampa Bay, Marie has captivated readers with her twisted plots and complex characters in novels like My Darlings (currently being adapted into a television series with Amazon MGM Studios), Bad Things Happened in This Room, and We're All Lying—a 2023 Buzzfeed most-anticipated thriller. Join us as Marie shares her journey from writing women's fiction under the pen name Kristen Seeley to penning edge-of-your-seat thrillers that leave readers breathless. She delves into her creative process, the art of tormenting her characters, and the thrilling experience of seeing her stories come to life on screen.  Off the page, Marie juggles life with her supportive husband, four kids, five cats, and an affectionate 150-pound Rottweiler. Don't miss her hilarious and heartfelt anecdotes, writing tips, and a sneak peek into her future projects.  Tune in for a fascinating conversation with one of the sharpest minds in the mystery/thriller world! Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or at www.drkatherinehayes.com. #authors #podcast #thrillers #mystery #authorlife #books #readersofig #writerscommunity #listen #diversebooksmatter #MarieStill #MyDarlings #MurderMysteryMayhemLacedWithMorality #MGM --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/katherine-hutchinson-hayes/support

Michael Wolk is a Broadway producer (Once Upon A Mattress, The Hills of California, Job, Prince of Broadway, Pacific Overtures, and the forthcoming The Karate Kid), and he has also produced in the U.K. (Kenrex), at Lincoln Center (Musashi and Temple of the Golden Pavilion), Kennedy Center (Up In The Air), BAM (MacBeth) and in Central Park (Japan Day @ Central Park 2007-2017). His nonprofit All For One Theater (www.AFO.NYC) has staged over 50 solo shows Off-Broadway since 2011. He is also the author of the new cyber thriller DevilsGame, and the mystery novels The Beast on Broadway and The Big Picture. He wrote the play Femme Fatale (Broadway Play Publishing) and wrote the book, music and lyrics for Deep Cover (New York Musical Theatre Festival) and Ghostlight 9 (Cherry Lane Theatre), and wrote the book for the musical, THE PILOT AND THE LITTLE PRINCE, which premiered in Fall 2024 at Poland's Katowice Miasto Ogrodow.   He directed the award-winning documentary You Think You Really Know Me: The Gary Wilson Story, which screened at the Film Society of Lincoln Center (Plexifilm DVD). He is a member of the Dramatists Guild and works and lives in Times Square.  Make sure to check out this author @wolk_michael

 Ami McConnell is a writer, editor, and publishing consultant based in Nashville, TN.She formerly served as Editor-in-Chief and VP of Howard Books/Simon & Schuster. Before that she acquired and edited for HarperCollins where she helped launch a successful fiction imprint. Editing credits include numerous New York Times bestsellers and award-winning titles. Today McConnell works with celebrities and artists of all stripes to create bestselling books. She founded and directs WriterFest Nashville, a gathering for writers of book, song, and film. She lives with her family in Franklin, Tennessee. Make sure to check out this author @amimcconnellwrites

Award-winning Author, Founder & President of Blue Handle Publishing and Book Puma Author Services. Book Puma began after founder, writer, and CEO of Blue Handle Publishing, Charles D'Amico, ran into issues trying to get his Neil Baggio Suspense Series edited and polished. He realized how much the game was stacked against the writer. He knew he wasn't the only one struggling with the process, which fuelled his desire to learn about the industry's inner-workings. He vowed to learn as much as possible to help show the way for other writers and authors. This has culminated in both Blue Handle Publishing and Book Puma Author Services being built to serve AUTHORS and their best interests. Whether it's the author-centric approach to royalty and investment, the focus on branding or making Book Puma's services easily accessible and affordable, Blue Handle is about reinventing how authors get the support and tools needed to get their work published. Make sure to check out this author on Instagram @charles3hats

Don Sawyer, writer and educator, grew up in Michigan and moved to Canada in the 1960s. Don has worked with youth and adults from many cultural backgrounds and in a variety of locales. A world of opportunity and experiences opened up after he left a PhD program in Modern Chinese History, from teaching in a small Newfoundland outport, to training community workers in West Africa, to teaching First Nations adults in BC, to designing a climate change action course for Jamaican youth. Before moving to Ontario, Don lived and worked in Salmon Arm BC for more than thirty years. There he taught adult education, served as the Chair of the Okanagan University College (OUC) Adult Basic Education Department, and acted as the Curriculum Director for the Native Adult Education Resource Centre.He has published many curriculum collections and books, including the best-selling YA novel Where the Rivers Meet and Tomorrow Is School and I am Sick to the Heart Thinking About It, a non-fiction account of his first teaching experiences in rural Newfoundland. His essays have appeared in most of Canada's major daily newspapers. Check out another episode of the Murder, Mystery, and Mayhem Laced with Morality Podcast.

Alethea (she/ze) writes various forms of SFF, with a particular love for science-fantasy, dark fantasy, dystopias, and folklore. Many of her works take place at the intersection between technology and magic. She enjoys writing stories with subtle political and philosophical messages, but primarily wants her stories to be great tales with characters readers will love. She also has soft spots for found family, hopeless romances, and non-human characters. Her short stories can be found in a variety of publications and links for these are on her website.Alethea lives in Manchester, UK with her husband, little Sprite, a cacophony of stringed instruments, and more tea than she can drink in a lifetime. Bonus content for The Hiding & other works can be found on her website.Make sure to check out this author on Instagram @alethearlyons

CC Robinson is the debut author of the Divided series, a dystopian series set in a racially divided world. CC has more than two decades' experience working in cross-cultural settings as both a medical doctor bringing health care to post-civil war nations around the globe and as an Associate Pastor at a multi-ethnic congregation led by an African-American man in Cincinnati, the setting for Divided. She wrote Divided out of concern for our nation's divisiveness and racial hatred.D Dvided is a dystopian series set in a racially divided world in which four teens meet in an underground rebel organization and must work together despite cultural differences to prevent the dictator's nation-annihilating territory grab.CC lives in Cincinnati with her husband, three Gen Z grown and flown kids, one cat who thinks he's a dog, and a real lap dog. When she's not writing or working at her church, you can find CC in her garden, elbowd-eep in the dirt. Follow her on socials or sign up for her monthly email newsletter on her website. Make sure to check out this author and connect with @ccrobinsonauthor

Rachel Bykowski, a Chicago playwright, writes to explore the many facets of the female identity. Her full-length, 28 Light Years From Now, is the winner of 2020 Getchell New Play Award. Her full-length play, Tight End, has been featured with The National New Play Network (NNPN) in a workshop at the Kennedy Center for the MFA Playwrights' Festival in 2016, was a top 20 finalist for CulturalDC's Source Theatre Festival in 2017, and received Honorable Mention for the Jane Chambers 2017 Student Playwriting Award. Her full-length play, Rev, was the runner-up for the 2018 Todd McNerney Playwriting Award, the winner of the 2019 SETC/Stage Rights Ready to Publish Award, and is now available for purchase on Amazon. Rachel's other plays have been produced and featured in festivals across the United States. Rachel is a playwriting alumna with NNPN and a member of the Dramatists Guild. She received her BFA in playwriting from the Theatre School at DePaul University and her MFA from Ohio University. Make sure to connect with with @tachelbykowskiplays

Jenny Milchman is the Mary Higgins Clark award-winning and USA Today bestselling author of five novels. Her work has been praised by the New York Times, New York Journal of Books, San Francisco Journal of Books, and more; earned spots on Best Of lists including PureWow, POPSUGAR, the Strand, Suspense, and Big Thrill magazines; and received starred reviews from Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, Booklist, and Shelf Awareness. Four of her novels have been Indie Next Picks. Jenny's short fiction has appeared in numerous anthologies and Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine, and a recent piece on touring appeared in the Agatha award-winning collection Promophobia. Jenny is about to launch a new series with Thomas & Mercer featuring psychologist Arles Shepherd, who has the power to save the most troubled and vulnerable children but must battle demons of her own to do it. Jenny is a member of the Rogue Women Writers and lives in the Hudson Valley with her family. Make sure to check out this episode

Ann lives in the beautiful Northern Arizona mountains with her clever husband (Sam Lucky, with whom she co-authors The Deadwood Undertaker series), charming children, and incredibly sassy cats. After many years and several colleges, she earned her Bachelor's Degree in English with an emphasis on creative writing from the University of Washington.Her books are character-driven, mixed-genre adventures full of mystery and mayhem, comedy and spice, and whatever else feels right to her. Ann has written a bunch of contemporary, award-winning novels in multiple series full of quirky characters with whom she loves to spend time. Right now, while you're reading this, she's probably frolicking around in another story or running from some creepy supernatural villain she conjured in the middle of the night.Ann has been a member of several writer groups in the past, including Romance Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, and Western Writers of America; however, currently she's hanging out with Novelists, Inc (NINC) and soaking up all she can about writing and marketing books. Who knows what other groups she'll join next in her effort to grow her craft and business skills? She's always trying to improve and find more people who share her sense of humor.While her reading preferences range from adventure to horror to western and mystery, since trying on herfirst training bra, she has loved a good mix of romance, too.When Ann is not dabbling in fiction, she's chatting it up on various podcasts and radio shows, as well as hanging out at various book-related conferences, making new friends and sharing what she has learned over the years about the writing craft and marketing. Make sure to connect with @ann_charles

Diane Bator began writing as a kid when she fell in love with storytelling. After ten years with various traditional publishers, she's created her own company, Escape With a Writer Publishing to relaunch her previous work plus many new titles. She is also a member of Sisters in Crime, Crime Writers of Canada, The Writers Union of Canada, and International Thriller Writers.Diane is a proud mom of three, a Reiki Master, a blue belt in goju-ryu karate, and an artist who loves stopping at odd places on road trips. She is represented by Creative Edge Publicity.Make sure to check out this author and on Instagram connect with @dianebatorauthor

Alison McBain (1979-not dead yet) was born in Canada, raised in California, and arrived in Canada with a few detours along the way. She has over two hundred poems and short stories published in magazines and anthologies such as Flash Fiction Online, On Spec, and Litro. Her debut and award-winning novel is The Rose Queen: Book 1 of the Rose Trilogy, and was shortly followed by a collection of her short fantasy fiction called Enchantress of Books. When not obsessing over her plan of survival for a zombie apocalypse, she practices origami meditation and draws all over the walls of her house with the enthusiastic help of her kids. In her spare time, she is one of the editors at Scribes*MICRO*Fiction (which publishes flash stories & poems and is always open for submissions). You can chat with her at @AlisonMcBain or read her blog at www.alisonmcbain.com.Make sure to check out this author and connect with her on Instagram @alisonamcbain

Alexandra Beaumont is a British fantasy novelist with a passion for folklore, playing musical instruments and exploring the wilds of the UK.With a degree in English Literature and Creative Writing, specializing in gothic literature, Alexandra's lyrical books weave together myth, magic and intrigue. Her captivating stories transport readers to enchanting worlds filled with unforgettable characters and spellbinding adventures.Make sure to check out Alexandra Beaumont

J. Lee is the award-winning author of The Hubley Case, The Silent Cardinal, The Deadly Deal and The Reluctant Reckoner. He graduated from Duke University with dual degrees in Engineering and Sociology and lives in the Chicago area with his family. To learn more about him or his novels, please visit www.jleethrillers.comMake sure to check out this author and connect with hin on Instagram with @j.leeauthor. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google Podcast, or visit my website www.drkatherinehayes.com

Chad Boudreaux has a broad range of government, legal and corporate experience. Prior to serving as the Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer of the nation's largest military shipbuilder, he served as Deputy Chief of Staff for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, where he advised Secretary Michael Chertoff on almost all significant matters facing the newly established department.Before working for Homeland Security, Boudreaux served in several high-ranking positions at the U.S. Justice Department, where he was hired the night before the September 11, 2001, attacks. During his time at the Justice Department, Boudreaux focused most of his time on matters relating to terrorism and homeland security.His career in the government lead him to write his debut novel, Scavenger Hunt.His next book Homecoming Queen launches August 6th, 2024!Make sure to check out this author on Instagram @chadboudreaux.authorYou can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google Podcast, or visit my website www.drkatherinehayes.com

Meet Joan: I am wife to one amazing man, Jerry; sister to one very gracious woman, aunt to the 15 best nieces and nephews (including grands!), and Momma Joan to one adult daughter of my heart! Best of all, I am a child of the King. I don't always see myself as a princess, but my Dad is Creator, Sustainer, Lord and King. He created me to encourage and connect people – especially those affected by disability. Having lived coast to coast across this beautiful country, central Florida has now become my home. Together, Jerry and I founded and direct Luke 14 Exchange, Inc. (http://luke14exchange.org/) Make sure to connect with Joan Borton at https://joanborton.com/ You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google Podcast, or visit my website www.drkatherinehayes.com

Donna Mumma has been writing since age eight.  She has won awards for speculative and women's fiction as well as devotions. An avid believer in education, she holds a BAE and M.Ed. in Elementary Education. She serves as a chapter mentor for Word Weavers International and has published an article for the International School Project . (https://www.isponline.org/making-math-fun/)Donna now lives on the West Coast of Florida with her family and one energetic collie named Duke. Her favorite things are faith, family, alligators, a warm cup of tea and sunflowers. Make sure to connect with Donna on Instagram @donnamumma_writer You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google Podcast, or visit my website www.drkatherinehayes.com

she seeks to take her readers on a grand adventure that begins with a single word. As a referee, she is always relearning the hard lesson that it's impossible to make everyone happy, and she's discovered that stories can be found anywhere, even on a lacrosse field. She is passionate about crafting stories of good overcoming evil, finding hope in the midst of seemingly hopeless circumstances, and true acceptance. Always willing to get real about hard issues, C.J. also enjoys the cheesiest of puns. She chats about writing, her faith, bubble tea, and other fun adventures online (@cjmilacci) and at cjmilacci.com. Make sure to connect with this author on Instagram @cjmilacci You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google Podcast, or visit my website www.drkatherinehayes.com

N.D. Testa realized at a young age that her true passion is telling stories. An Italian author who lives in the United States, her goal is to give readers an escape from reality with her books. When she doesn't have a pen in her hand, you can find her at the gym. A fashionista and skincare addict, N.D. Testa also enjoys snowboarding, riding horses, and learning new languages. In addition to being an animal lover, she dreams of traveling the world. At night she enjoys being by the fire with a cup of tea in her hands. Make sure to connect with with N. D. Testa on Instagram @theblueeyedwriter You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google Podcast, or visit my website www.drkatherinehayes.com

Jim has served on numerous for-profit and non-profit boards. He currently serves on the Board of Trustees of the Virginia Commonwealth University Foundation, as chairman of The Grant Committee, and as a member of the Executive Council. In addition, he is a founding member of the Marketing Accountability Standards Advisory Council (MASAC) and past committee chairman of the Improving Financial Reporting committee of the Marketing Accountability Standards Board (MASB).    Jim has written five books on creating value with brands: Marketing Corporate Image, Leveraging the Corporate Brand, Branding Across Borders, and The Best of Branding. His latest book is an international bestseller, Powerhouse – The Secrets of Corporate Branding. He recently wrote four fictional books, Small Fortunes, Stones in a Glass House, Fortune Teller, and Zephyr's War.    Make sure to connect with James Gregory on his website: https://jamesrgregory-books.com/ You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google Podcast, or visit my website www.drkatherinehayes.com