The Make Meaning Podcast

Brenda Meller is an entrepreneur, author and social media coach who helps people maximize their presence on LinkedIn. She is the author of Social Media Pie: How to enjoy a bigger slice of the LinkedIn Pie and host of the Enthusiastically Self-Employed podcast.   In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Brenda about her book and the evolution of her career. She talks about her writing process, including how she wrote the book in just 30 days, and why she opted to self-publish. They talk about the ever-evolving nature of social media, which demands periodic updates to the book along with plans for future books.   In this episode, Lynne and Brenda discuss:  The story behind the book title Her writing process and the power of writers conferences Committing to daily writing Creating a community-focused book with shoutouts to readers Self-publishing with help  Creating an audiobook  The benefits of multiple book formats  Working past retirement age   Links and Resources:  Social Media Pie: How to Enjoy a Bigger Slice of the LinkedIn Pie Enthusiastically Self-Employed Rochester Writers How to write a book in 30 days by Don Staley NaNoWriMo Scotia Road Books Dave Stokes - audiobook coach Boot Camp with Brenda   Find Brenda Meller: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Twitter YouTube If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 21 – Brenda Meller – All About Pie Episode 25 – Crosby Noricks – Perfect PR Moments Episode 117 – Steven Wingate – How to Find Your Voice Again & Again Episode 128 – Becky Robinson – Building Reach for Books Episode 142 – Announcing Scotia Road Books  

Patrick Hicks is an Irish Catholic writer from Minnesota who has a deep fascination with the Holocaust. He has written three Holocaust novels and has conducted extensive research on the subject, visiting twelve different concentration camps and speaking with survivors. Patrick is also a professor at Augustana University in South Dakota, where he teaches writing and literature.   In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Patrick about his newest book, Across the Lake. In his second time on the Make Meaning Podcast, Patrick explains what inspired this novel, driven by research on gender and violence. He reflects on the impact of writing about such a dark period in human history and the importance of standing up to fascism at any time, especially today. The interview concludes with a discussion on topics that engage students today and a look at the future of writing.   In this episode, Lynne and Patrick discuss:  Inspiration for  Across the Lake Braided narratives How to create compelling characters that are starkly different from the author Challenging yourself as an author Why it's so important for an Irish Catholic novelist to write about the Holocaust Character development and story visioning The art of naming characters Gender differences in violence during the Holocaust The impact on the author of writing about the Holocaust The importance of addressing fascism and hatred in fiction Contemporary students' interest in equality and progressivism   Links and Resources:  Patrick's first interview on the Make Meaning Podcast, episode 102 In the Shadow of Dora Ravensbrück concentration camp PBS: Public Broadcasting Service Hitler's Furies by Wendy Lower Aufseherin B17 bombers Augustana University Patriot Front   Find Patrick Hicks: Website Facebook Twitter Blog If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 127 – Ly Tran – Writing Unapologetically  Episode 123 – Karen Gordon – On Surviving the Surviving Episode 117 – Steven Wingate – How to Find Your Voice Again & Again Episode 102 – Patrick Hicks – How to Write Historical Fiction Episode 68 – M.L. Liebler – H ow to Use Writing & Performance to be an Activist Episode 61 – Merle Saferstein – How to Leave a Legacy Through Journaling  

Qin Sun Stubis is a Chinese-American author of the book Once Our Lives: A Memoir of Shanghai, Teahouses, and Three Generations of Family, which tells the story of four generations of Chinese women in Shanghai, China during the Great Famine, navigating war and revolution.   In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Qin about her early life, China's Cultural Revolution and her love of words and storytelling. Qin explains how the loss of her parents inspired her to write a memoir that brings to life her family's stories and a fascinating part of China's history. She also discusses her writing process and the challenges she faced as a first-time author. Qin has received awards for this beautiful book and continues to write essays and short stories.   In this episode, Lynne and Qin discuss:  Growing up in poverty and how that influenced her writing A mother's influence on her love of words Early memories of writing – quoting Mao Zedong's quotations Attending the Shanghai Institute of Foreign Languages Being a late-blooming writer  A mission to preserve family stories and reputation Why history and humanity is the same around the world First-time author challenges along the publishing journey The importance of the first sentence and first chapter Forming a support group for older women writers Her column for the Santa Monica Star   Links and Resources:  Chinese Cultural Revolution Thomas Hardy Shakespeare's Sonnets Louisa May Alcott Bessie Streeter Aldrich Tess of the d'Urbervilles F. Scott Fitzgerald The Great Gatsby Nonfiction Author Association Miami Book Fair PenCraft Book Awards Frank McCourt, Angela's Ashes   Find Qin Sun Stubis: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 156 – Blair Fell – Original Storylines & Unique Characters Episode 149 – Anne-Marie Oomen – Writing through Family Episode 146 – Barbara Stark-Nemon – Tracing the Path of Historical Fiction Episode 139 – Desiree Cooper – Being “Genre Agnostic” Episode 131 – Weina Dai Randel – The Last Rose of Shanghai  

Elizabeth Conte is an author with a passion for bringing 19th-century literature to the 21st-century reader. She is the author of Finding Jane, a time travel historical novel, and Chosen Mistress, a scintillating story set in Victorian England. Elizabeth is the founder of Jane Writes Press, a hybrid publishing house for writers who don't fit into traditional publishing boxes.   In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Elizabeth about her debut novel, Finding Jane, her inspiration for the book and the challenges she faced while writing and editing it. Elizabeth also talks about her marketing strategies and the success she has achieved as an indie author. She introduces her next book, Chosen Mistress, which explores the dark side of Victorian life and women's roles during that time. She also explains her decision to self-publish and her vision for her imprint, Jane Writes Press.   In this episode, Lynne and Elizabeth discuss:  The story behind Finding Jane, an homage to Pride and Prejudice Making 19th century literature more accessible What it means to "do really well" with book sales Book marketing strategies  The importance of consistent marketing efforts Pitching media outlets for author interviews The purpose of writing & target audience Perspectives on adverbs – listen to a fierce debate on adjectives & adverbs around the 10-minute mark! The indie author's journey Frustrations with fitting into traditional publishing categories Starting a publishing house The importance of professional editing Creating a new category called Literary Romance What is the purpose of your writing & how do you want people to know you?   Links and Resources:  Pride and Prejudice Nathaniel Hawthorne Writing Coaching Woman of Valor The Los Angeles Times article about Elizabeth Conte Lynne's class, Demystifying Show, Don't Tell   Find Elizabeth Conte: Website Facebook Twitter TikTok Blog LinkedIn Instagram If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 152 – Ami Irmen – Character-Driven Narratives Episode 146 – Barbara Stark-Nemon – Tracing the Path of Historical Fiction Episode 136 – Tammy Pasterick – Writing & Publishing Your Way Episode 129 – Rosina Lippi – Author of the Wilderness Series Episode 128 – Becky Robinson – Building Reach for Books  

Ana Veciana-Suarez is a journalist and author. She has written for various publications and has published several books, including her latest novel, Dulcinea, which was inspired by her reading of Don Quixote in high school. Known for her meticulous research and attention to detail, Anna spent many years digging up the information she needed to focus on the Spanish Inquisition.    In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Ana about her writing process, the challenges of researching historical fiction, her experiences with marketing her book, and her insights into the changing landscape of the writing community.   In this episode, Lynne and Ana discuss:  Juggling writing as a journalist and author Process of writing her novel, Dulcinea Marketing and response to the book Different challenges, writing fiction as opposed to journalism Balancing writing with life and work Advice for aspiring writers: read and have self-discipline Finding historians who are subject matter experts in the era you are writing about Focusing on the characters at the edges of a story Golden Age Spain   Links and Resources:  Don Quixote Miguel de Cervantes The Miami Herald Readers Digest O magazine Woman's Day The Washington Post Magazine Goodreads Women's Fiction Writers Association Michigan Writers Catalonia   Find Ana Veciana-Suarez: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 146 – Barbara Stark-Nemon – Tracing the Path of Historical Fiction Episode 136 – Tammy Pasterick – Writing & Publishing Your Way Episode 132 – Merryn Glover – Literary Fiction About Place Episode 127 – Ly Tran – Writing Unapologetically Episode 118 – Elizabeth Gowing – How to Know a Place by Living its Stories

Jonathan Whitelaw is a Scottish author and journalist now living in Canada who wrote his first novel at the age of 17. He's since published several books in the cozy crime genre, including Morbid Relations and the popular Bingo Hall Detectives series. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Jonathan  about the cozy crime genre, why he's drawn to it and the genre's emphasis on humor, character, and setting. Plus, they discuss his publishing journey, from his first horrible book to being published by a small independent publisher to getting an agent and taking the plunge to become a full-time author. They also explore the differences and similarities between the publishing industry in the UK and Canada and how Jonathan has adapted his marketing to reach a North American audience while still appealing to his loyal UK readers.    In this episode, Lynne and Jonathan discuss:  Why you can write at any age Audience differences between Canada and the UK Genre talk The expansiveness of writing and publishing The popularity of cozy crime during times of crisis The challenge of writing humor Inspiration from in-law relationships The need for luck and endurance in the author journey Writing practice & daily routine Juggling writing, parenting and income-earning Importance of a supportive family and the "village" of the publishing industry Book cover differences between countries Lynne's writing sabbatical in Nova Scotia Finding your audience in different geographical locations   Links and Resources:  The Hobbit Die Hard Lynne's Writing Classes & Programs Nova Scotia Retreat When Words Collide Cozy Mystery Agatha Christie Terry Pratchett The Bingo Hall Detectives Ringwood Publishing Harper North Harper Collins The Village Hall Vendetta LJ Ross Indigo Colleen Hoover   Find  Jonathan Whitelaw: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 158 – Suzanne Nugent – On Character Development Episode 149 – Anne-Marie Oomen – Writing Through Family Episode 134 – Andrew McDiarmid – Simply Scottish Episode 132 – Merryn Glover – Literary Fiction about Place Episode 70 – Elena Reads – How to Stoke a Love of Reading in Kids  

Finding an agent and publisher was easy for April Davila, an award-winning author who quit her job in 2016 to write  full-time. Her debut novel, 142 Ostriches, won the WILLA Literary Awards for Women Writing the West. In this episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner chats with April, a fourth-generation Californian who studied marine biology before being called to the written word. She honed her skills in marketing and technical writing jobs, dedicating early mornings to crafting fiction until she could finally make the transition to writing full-time. In this episode, Lynne and April discuss the lessons she learned along the way and why she pairs meditation with writing.   In this episode, Lynne and April discuss:  The inspiration behind 142 Ostriches Handling rejection Celebrating accolades Being a mindful writer Writing as a meditation How meditation helps writers Aligning entrepreneurship with writing    Links and Resources:  142 Ostriches Kensington Books Mindfulness at Berkeley Write with Lynne   Find April Davila: Website Instagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 96 – Jim Rajan – How to Leave Everything Behind Episode 52 - Stacy Dockins - Journey to the Self Episode 50 - Gautam Jain - Strengthening Intellect  Episode 47 - Linda Makowski - Quieting the Mind Episode 18 - Amy Haimerl - Shady Ladies & Detroit Hustle

Suzanne Nugent, author of Brunch and Other Obligations and host of the Character Development podcast, uses humor to confront life's darkest moments. She navigates between various storytelling mediums, from novels to screenplays, finding the right narrative platform for each project.   In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Suzanne about her creative career and how writing has shaped her as a person. She shares her inspiration for her novel Brunch and Other Obligations and her journey to publishing. Suzanne also talks about her love for storytelling across platforms, including screenwriting and podcasting. In this episode, Lynne and Suzanne discuss:  How writing helps Suzanne process her thoughts How to keep voice and focus consistent in writing How a first job writing obituaries sparked interest in finding humor in sad situations How to decide on a book publishing path  How hiring a book coach motivated Suzanne to write her novel How to set long-term author career goals  How to adapt novels to film How to create an audiobook   Links and Resources:  Lynne's 2023 Nova Scotia Writers Retreat Ghost tour of Lunenberg Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert Scotia Road Books Woman of Valor   Find Suzanne Nugent: Website Podcast   If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 151 – Rochelle Weinstein – Writing Best-Selling Novels Episode 150 – Lisa Peers – First Novels & Writing Friendships Episode 148 – Woman of Valor – Katie Scott interviews Lynne about her first novel! Episode 143 – Annie Cathryn – Dreams Come True: The Friendship Breakup Episode 135 – Camille Pagan – Making Writing Your Career  

Blake Kimzey is the founder of writingworkshops.com, a global community offering writing classes taught by experienced instructors, like Make Meaning Podcast host Lynne Golodner. Blake is also an author, screenwriter and hands-on dad of three. In this episode, Blake recalls a pivotal moment in sixth grade when he wrote a King Arthur rip-off. He and Make Meaning Podcast host Lynne Golodner also talk about his journey as an author, the inspiration behind WritingWorkshops.com and the surprising and very winding journey of becoming an author.   In this episode, Lynne and Blake discuss:  Going from short stories to writing a novel Submitting novels and receiving rejections Transitioning to screenwriting Writing a novel while working at an engineering firm Embracing the long-term nature of a writing career The importance of supporting women authors over 40 WritingWorkshops.com's explosive growth Offering online classes during the pandemic and beyond Being in it for the long haul and why “first” novels are often third, fourth or tenth projects Publishing later in life Coming into your voice Creating stakes, tension and care for characters   Links and Resources:  King Arthur MFA George Saunders Austin Film Festival David Benioff Liz Hannah D.B. Weiss “A professional writer is an amateur who didn't quit.”– Richard Bach Elizabeth George Foundation Carrie by Stephen King On Writing, Stephen King ASJA Virtual Annual Conference Scotia Road Books Edan Lepucki Writing Coaching Lynne's Writers Retreats Sackett Street Writers   Find Blake Kimzey: Website Twitter Instagram LinkedIn   Find writingworkshops.com: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram Blog   If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 144 – Danny Hankner – Founding Story Unlikely Episode 142 – Announcing Scotia Road Books Episode 79 – Laura Munson – How to Find Refuge in Writing Episode 73 – Jim Reese – Why Teaching Writing in Prisons  Helps Everyone Episode 1 – Norman Cohn – the Best Business Advisor  

While fiction is born from imagination and creativity, many authors explain how they came to the stories they create through lived experiences. This is definitely true for Blair Fell, author of The Sign for Home, whose work in the deafblind community taught him about nuances, details and issues facing that community. This debut novel takes readers on a journey through a fascinating community and the lives of compelling characters. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Blair about his writing process, the importance of research and the value of participating in a writing group. He discusses his background as a playwright and television writer, and how he transitioned into writing novels. Plus, Blair offers advice for writers, emphasizing the need to just write, join a writing group, and prioritize writing amid perpetual other commitments.   In this episode, Lynne and Blair discuss:  Finding inspiration in your work and relationships Researching and interviewing deafblind individuals  Finding an agent and a publisher Writing a second book after a celebrated first book Working through a horrible first draft Motivation from setting deadlines and fear of disappointing others Building a successful writing career Why so many writers have a day job Authors who find success later in life Audiobook opportunities   Links and Resources:  John Lee Clark Protactile movement James Hannaham Didn't Nobody Give a Shit What Happened to Carlotta Doug Stewart Sterling Lord Literistic Cloud Atlas The Silver Linings Playbook American Dirt “Take care of the sense, the sounds will take care of themselves” - Alice in Wonderland Writing group with Marian Fontana & Louise Crawford David Groff PEN/Faulkner  Delicious Foods Simon & Schuster  Where the Crawdads Sing  The City College of New York Woman of Valor by Lynne Golodner   Find Blair Fell: Website Facebook TikTok Instagram If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 152 – Ami Irmen – Character-Driven Narratives Episode 150 – Lisa Peers – First Novels & Writing Friendships Episode 145 – CL Walters – Young Adult & New Adult Fiction from Hawaii Episode 143 – Annie Cathryn – Dreams Come True: The Friendship Breakup Episode 139 – Desiree Cooper – Being “Genre Agnostic”

Episode 155 - Martha Anne Toll - Finely Crafted, Award-Winning Fiction   Martha Anne Toll is an author and former lawyer who has always been passionate about writing. She grew up in a secular Jewish family and was deeply influenced by the stories of Holocaust survivors. Martha's debut novel, Three Muses, is a beautifully crafted story that combines her love for ballet and her exploration of the impact of the Holocaust on her own Jewish identity. She is currently working on her second novel, Duet for One, which delves into the world of classical music in Philadelphia.   In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Martha about her writing process, her publishing journey, marketing efforts, and the value of attending book events to learn from other authors. They also discuss how the Holocaust factors into Jewish identity, especially for 20th century American Jews.   In this episode, Lynne and Martha discuss:  The inspiration behind the novel Three Muses Martha's introduction to Judaism through the Holocaust Martha's next novel Developing characters & the love story in Three Muses Writing process and revision Research for writing a book How to find a publisher Marketing & speaking engagements The power of 100 rejections Writing routines & book events Why beginnings & endings are so difficult Writing novels with no formal writing training – why you don't need a degree to write a great book! Being a ruthless self-editor   Links and Resources:  The Holocaust Auschwitz  Classic music in Philadelphia Woman of Valor Viola Writing Coaching Swan Lake Developmental Editing Writing Retreats Regal House Publishing Petrichor Prize Lynne's Substack Find Martha Anne Toll: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Substack     If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 146 – Barbara Stark-Nemon – Tracing the Path of Historical Fiction Episode 142 – Announcing Scotia Road Books Episode 131 -Weina Dai Randel – The Last Rose of Shanghai Episode 129 – Rosina Lippi – Author of the Wilderness Series Episode 128 – Becky Robinson – Building Reach for Books

Episode 154 - Dawn Chalker - Writing What You Know   Dawn Chalker wrote her first novel in fifth grade, finding inspiration from real life. That curiosity, creativity and imagination has continued throughout her life, drawing stories from journeys in nature. The northern Michigan-based writer based her recent novel, Bear Me in Mind, on a real-life encounter with a bear in Alaska and also her love for British detective shows. She also writes children's books.   In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Dawn about the joys of writing, the importance of writing what you know, her publishing choices, and how she promotes her books.   In this episode, Lynne and Dawn discuss:  Writing a first novel in fifth grade before YA was a genre Writing as mindfulness Finding inspiration for books and diving into research to build a story Writing what you know and doing research Basing characters on people Finding the best beta readers Respecting the writer and understanding their goals The importance of doing your own book marketing Being more creative when writing by hand   Links and Resources:  Hepatica Books Mendenhall Glacier Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators Amazon KDP IngramSpark The Nature Conservancy Grass River Conservancy Author Brand Marketing Mastermind Where's the Vacation? Bear Me In Mind Northwestern Michigan College Leelanau Peninsula Michigan Writers Traverse City Area District Library   Find Dawn Chalker: Website LinkedIn   If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 138 – Sara Bennett Wealer – Connecting with YA Readers Episode 129 – Rosina Lippi – Author of the Wilderness Series Episode 122 – Valoree Gagnon & Karena Schmidt – On the Food & Culture of Indigenous Gardens Episode 105 – Helen Taylor & Gina Nicholas – How to Really Protect the Environment by Being a True Part of it Episode 49 – Dennis van Englesdorp, Nicole Lindsey & DeAndra LeMelle – Saving the Bees  

Episode 153 – Jewish Books, Jewish Authors   In a special two-part episode, Lynne Golodner interviews people who curate and promote Jewish books and Jewish authors. The first part features representatives from America's longest-running Jewish Book Fair -- Lauren Johnson, a librarian and consultant at the J-Detroit, and Brenda Brook, the 2023 chair of the Detroit Jewish Book Fair. The second part is a conversation with Naomi Firestone-Teeter, executive director of the Jewish Book Council. Learn why Detroit is a hub for Jewish literature, and consider the role of Jewish books in shaping identity of and for diverse audiences.   In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Brenda, Lauren, and Naomi about the legacy of Jewish book fairs and trends in the Jewish book world, including an increase in Holocaust-related writings and the growth of children's publishing. They also touch on the responsibility of Jewish authors in representing the community and how virtual events are attracting a global audience.   In this episode, Lynne, Lauren, Brenda and Naomi discuss:  The long history of the Detroit Jewish Book Fair Being the "People of the Book" Gentile authors writing for a Jewish audience Criteria for selecting books for the book fair Communicating Jewish identity to global audiences Jewish book fairs compared to other book events The importance of featuring authors who are not bestsellers The value of community engagement Growth and diversity in Jewish children's literature Personal journeys and passions for Jewish culture Changing conversations in the Jewish book world Trends in graphic narratives and genre fiction Intergenerational growth in the Jewish genre Fascination with the Orthodox community in Jewish literature Jewish books inspire conversations about identity and culture How books reflect the multifaceted Jewish experience and promote diversity Portraying Jews responsibly Jewish Book Month Accessibility and opportunities for smaller communities The JBC's writers' conference Links and Resources:  Detroit Jewish Book Fair Woman of Valor The Holocaust Martha Ann Toll (who will be on the Make Meaning Podcast Dec. 1, 2023) Lynne's Writing Classes Jewish Book Week PJ Library Jewish Publication Society The Paper Brigade JBC Network Global Jewish Literary Alliance JBC writers conference Irwin Shaw Maimonides Torah Elie Wiesel Jim Lehrer  Peter Max Jeffrey Toobin Chaim Potok Jennifer Weiner Belva Plain Daniel Silva Pam Jenoff Karen Tintori Katz Jill Gregory Donald Levin Kristin Harmel Fanny Goldstein   If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 148 – Woman of Valor – Katie Scott interviews Lynne about her debut novel Episode 146 – Barbara Stark-Nemon – Tracing the Path of Historical Fiction Episode 130 – Merle Saferstein – Journaling & Legacy Episode 123 – Karen Gordon – On Surviving the Surviving Episode 39 – Rabbis Who Rock

Ami Irmen's favorite storyteller was her grandfather, who set her on the path to becoming an educator and a writer. Her first traditionally-published novel is coming soon from Scarsdale Publishing, while she self-published another novel, Wherever Would I Be. Her short stories and poems have appeared in Sinister Wisdom, The Copperfield Review, and Glass: A Journal of Poetry. Ami teaches writing at Kishwaukee College.   In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Ami Irmen about her creative process, how to turn an idea into a book, which publishing route to take and how to fund a book on Kickstarter.    In this episode, Lynne and Ami discuss:  Teaching writing at the university level The writing process Finding a publisher without an agent Finding time to write when you work another job Jane Adeny Memorial School for Girls in Kenya Traditional publishing vs. self-publishing Finding a cover designer The teachers who inspire us to write Finding community with other writers Period Poverty Why having a good editor is so important   Links and Resources:  Peaker Writers My Peak Challenge University of Wisconsin-Green Bay Friends of JAMS  Northern Illinois University Artist Pascal Campion  Revise & Resub University of Detroit-Mercy Outlander by Diana Gabaldon Find Ami Irmen: Website Twitter LinkedIn Instagram Blog     If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 145- CL Walters -  Young Adult & New Adult Fiction from Hawai'i Episode 142 – Announcing Scotia Road Books Episode 136 - Tammy Pasterick - Writing & Publishing Your Way Episode 113 – Ramona Pintea – How to Make Art a Path for Serving Others Episode 107 – The Hon. Jan Tinetti – How to Eliminate Period Poverty

Rochelle Weinstein is a successful and talented author known for her emotionally charged novels. After leaving a career in the music industry in 2000, she started writing and has produced eight novels, with the latest coming out on Oct. 20th. Rochelle's writing explores topical issues and draws inspiration from her own experiences and emotions. What's more, she is a leading example of generosity, camaraderie and community in the world of women's fiction!   In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Rochelle about how and why, after two wildly successful self-published books, she landed an agent and publishing contract that is still going strong. They discuss hitting bestseller status by trusting instincts, Rochelle's writing process, where she finds inspiration (real-life emotions, timely, topical subjects, and places she loves) and the impact of platforms like TikTok.   In this episode, Lynne and Rochelle discuss:  Why being a voracious reader makes you a better writer Launching a writing career while raising twin sons Why every book publishing story is unique The importance of a strong, professionally-edited self-published book  The shift from self-publishing to finding an agent Inspiration for book ideas Plotter vs. Pantser Rochelle's role as a book influencer Changes in the publishing industry The importance of supporting other authors How AI is affecting authors The importance of having a writing community & support system Rochelle's vision for her writing future Advice for aspiring writers   Links and Resources:  Danielle Steele Sidney Sheldon Judy Blume What We Leave Behind The Mourning After Merle Saferstein Where We Fall  Lake Union Publishing Somebody's Daughter  Publishers Marketplace USA Today Bestseller List GSD - Glycogen storage diseases What You Do To Me  Woman of Valor NBC 6 South Florida Barbara Bos, Women Writers, Women's Books Jen Herrera Lauren Margolin, Good Book Fairy Jamie Rosenblit  Renee's Reading Club Zibby Owens Connie Ogle Edinburgh Writers Museum Miami Book Fair Colleen Hoover  BookTok Camille Di Maio Samantha Greene Woodruff Lisa Barr Find Rochelle Weinstein: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram     If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 135 – Camille Pagan – Making Writing Your Career Episode 131 – Weina Randel – The Last Rose of Shanghai Episode 130 – Merle Saferstein – Journaling & Legacy Episode 128 – Becky Robinson – Building Reach for Books Episode 127 – Ly Tran – Writing Unapologetically  

As a child in Richmond, Virginia, Lisa Peers was introduced to writing by her mother, who was also a writer who invited her young daughter to play with her typewriter. Still, Lisa began her career in theater and only later pursued writing in a professional capacity. She shares how acting shapes her writing process and helps her build authentic dialogue, which is a strength of Lisa's new novel, Love at 350°. This gorgeous story features 40something characters challenging the norms of the romantic comedy genre.    In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Lisa about her journey from acting to writing, the process of finding an agent and publisher, and the importance of writing books you want to read.    In this episode, Lynne and Lisa discuss:  Building a body of work People who inspire us to write How other passions/hobbies influence writing Finding the right writer's group for you No one way for a book to come to life Creating compelling characters The power of manifestation Finding agents - right time + right place Publishers looking for diverse stories (plus-size, LGBTQ, etc.) How to weather shifting editors and their changing perspectives Publishing trends   Links and Resources:  True Romance Love and Other B-Sides Irving Berlin Cole Porter George Gershwin The Golden Oldies Punk Era The myth of Psyche and Eros Eros & Psyche Love at 350° Woman of Valor Tracy Gardner Beno  Hallmark The Dial Press Find Lisa Peers: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Instagram   If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes:   Episode 143 – Annie Cathryn – Dreams Come True: The Friendship Breakup Episode 136 – Tammy Pasterick – Writing & Publishing Your Way Episode 118 – Elizabeth Gowing – How to Know a Place by Living its Stories Episode 14 – Heather Leavitt – An Artful Path  

Lynne Golodner first met Anne-Marie Oomen at Goddard College, where Lynne was beginning her MFA in Writing and Anne-Marie was graduating. A fellow Michigan resident who calls the forests and hills of the Lake Michigan shores her home, Anne-Marie serves on the board of Michigan Writers where Lynne is now in charge of Marketing.  In this episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner chats with Anne-Marie about teaching in the Solstice MFA program at LaSalle University and at Interlochen Center for the Arts, the backstory for As Long as I Know You: the Mom Book - which won the Sue William Silverman Prize for Creative Nonfiction - and honing your own voice.   In this episode, Lynne and Anne-Marie discuss:  Family relationships The power of observation and journaling Writing routine Imitating to find your voice Writing communities The Old Testament Links and Resources:  Grimm's Fairy Tales Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert Michigan Humanities Council Pulling Down the Barn Wayne State University Press Michigan Notable Book Award Michigan Writers Dunes Review Chapbook Content Submittable AWP Award   Find Anne-Marie Oomen: Website  Facebook Twitter  Instagram Blog   If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 141 - Tom Sleigh - a Lifetime of Poetry Episode 137 - Christopher P. Locke - Breathtaking Essays & Stories Episode 133 - Sara Henning - Poetry about Loss and Redemption Episode 129 - Rosina Lippi - Author of the Wilderness Series Episode 122 - Valoree Gagnon and Karena Schmidt - on the Food & Culture of Indigenous Gardens

A Super Special Episode: Lynne Golodner discusses her debut novel! Writer, Washtenaw County Commissioner, Nurse and Friend Extraordinaire Katie Scott takes the mic on this episode to interview Make Meaning host Lynne Golodner about the release of her ninth book and debut novel, Woman of Valor. Lynne and Katie met in a writing course in the 1990s and are more like sisters than friends. In this episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner finds herself on the other side of the interview as Katie asks about the journey behind Woman of Valor, which releases September 26, 2023.    In this episode, Lynne and Katie discuss: Building the main character, Sally Deciding on POV  The role of cooking and food in the book The process of writing a novel  Plotters vs Pantsers Jewish traditions and tensions within the story Choosing critique partners Finding a writers community The creation of Scotia Road Books   Links and Resources:  Woman of Valor Gefilte Fish Save the Cat Beat Sheets Book Coaching Writer Retreats Women of Valor Virtual Book Launch   Find Lynne Golodner: Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Twitter   If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 132 - Merryn Glover - Literary Fiction About Place Episode 82 - Jessica McCormick - Envisioning a New Type of Jewish Community Episode 48 - the NFHS Reunion Episode Episode 40 - Lynne Golodner - The Message Matters Episode 1 - Norman Cohn - the Best Business Advisor  

Diane Gottlieb champions midlife women while telling her own provocative, riveting stories for publications like River Teeth, HuffPost, and SmokeLong Quarterly. Winner of the Tiferet 2021 Writing Contest and a finalist in SmokeLong Grand Micro Contest 2022, Diane has three master's degrees and serves as editor of Awakenings: Stories of Body and Consciousness and prose/creative nonfiction editor of Emerge Literary Journal. In this episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner chats with Diane about her passion for writing, her dedication to empowering the voices of midlife women and her journey to becoming known in the literary community.   In this episode, Lynne and Diane discuss:  Creating community Winning writing awards How editing helps your own writing Curating content How writing styles change over time Diane's book projects The power of revision How to know when a piece is finished Social Media Marketing   Links and Resources:  Woman Pause Author Brand Marketing Mastermind ​​Lunch Ticket Literary Journal Christopher P. Locke Scotia Road Books Writing Coaching   Find Diane Gottlieb: Website Facebook  Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Blog   If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 137 - Christopher P. Locke - Breathtaking Stories & Essays Episode 127 - Ly Tran - Writing Unapologetically Episode 117 - Steve Wingate - How to Find Your Voice Again and Again Episode 107 - The Hon. Jan Tinetti - How to Eliminate Period Poverty Episode 73 - Jim Reese - Why Teaching Writing in Prisons Helps Everybody  

Barbara Stark-Nemon takes her time writing historical fiction, tracing the paths her characters walked and lived. The author of award-winning novels, Barbara turned to writing after retiring from a successful career. In this episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner chats with Barbara about her passion for writing and her experiences speaking at conferences, literary events, libraries and book clubs. A University of Michigan alumnus, Barbara has two published novels - Even in Darkness and Hard Cider - and is at work on a coming-of-age refugee story set in the aftermath of the Inquisition.    In this episode, Lynne and Barbara discuss:  How to build ideas into books Hybrid publishing  How many books you need to sell to be “successful” Whether to invest in publicity Finding writer friends and critique groups   Links and Resources:  The Women's Fiction Writers Association Lynne's Classes  She Writes Press Brooke Warner  Scotia Road Books   Find Barbara Stark-Nemon: Website Twitter InstagramFacebookLinkedIn Blog   If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 129 - Rosina Lippi - Author of the Wilderness Series Episode 102 - Patrick Hicks - How to Write Historical Fiction Episode 80- Iris Lee Underwood, Lavender Farmer, Author, Descendant of the McCoys of Appalachia Episode 48 - Arthur, Ross, Jason, Steve, Shelli & Jeffrey - the NFHS Reunion Episode, 30 Years after Graduation Episode 44 - Kirstin Karoub, Lynne Golodner & Norman Cohn - Celebrating One Year of the Make Meaning Podcast  

Building an author career depends on writing book after book after book, which is something CL Walters knows well. From her home base in Hawai'i, she writes and publishes through Mixed Plate Press, the venture she runs with her husband. CL writes Young Adult and New Adult titles, and pens Romances under the name Maci Aurora. In this episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner chats with CL Walters about her author journey, making a living as a writer, maintaining a steady flow of stories, and the resilience required when your first book doesn't quite take off.    In this episode, Lynne and CL discuss:  Early writing memories Becoming a full-time writer The trials of self-publishing  Platforms for self-publishing Consistency in theme Understanding rejections  Building audience relationships Fighting Imposter Syndrome Setting goals for your book Choosing a pen name How many books to write a year   Links and Resources:  Brand Marketing MasterMind In the Echo of This Ghost Town The Ugly Truth Lynne's Poetry  Scotia Road Books Swimming Sideways The Stories Stars Tell KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing) Ingram Spark   Find CL Walters: WebsiteFacebookTikTok InstagramLinkedIn Blog   If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 138 - Sara Bennett Wealer - Connecting with YA Readers Episode 135 - Camille Pagan - Making Writing Your Career Episode 128 - Becky Robinson - Building Reach for Books Episode 101 - Margaret O'Gorman - Why Bicycling Through Countries is the Best Way to Learn Local Culture Episode 70 - Elena Reads - How to Stoke a Love of Reading in Kids  

Danny Hankner is an electrician by trade and a writer at heart as well as the founder of Story Unlikely. This online literary publication showcases incredible stories, focusing on non-fiction memoiristic pieces. As a publisher, Danny is passionate about discovering great authors and beautiful stories, providing a platform and audience to showcase worthy voices.   In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Danny Hankner about his literary journey. One of Lynne's favorite of her original nonfiction writings, “The Roads We Travel,” was accepted by Danny not even 24 hours after she submitted it. She says it was the best acceptance she has ever received. Read it here.   In this episode, Lynne and Danny discuss:  The process of publishing on Story Unlikely Writing with meaning Dealing with rejection Strategic submissions to the right publications How writing can be healing This vision for Story Unlikely Tips to get published on Story Unlikely - follow the instructions! Why writers need a work ethic & tenacity   Links and Resources:  Story Unlikely What is a memoir? Story Unlikely's Annual Short Story Competition Lynne's Writing Classes   Find Danny Hankner: Website  Facebook Instagram   If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 137 – Christopher P. Locke – Breathtaking Essays & Stories Episode 117 - Steven Wingate - How to Find Your Voice Again & Again Episode 116 - Jake Neher - Telling Stories & Planting Seeds Episode 102 - Patrick Hicks - How to Write Historical Fiction Episode 77 - Jason Kadlitz - Building Community in a Barber Shop

Annie Cathryn transitioned from a career in marketing for a Fortune 500 company to her own consulting agency inspired by Elizabeth Gilbert's "Eat Pray Love" to pursue her dream of writing fiction. She recently released her debut book, The Friendship Breakup, and is a self-proclaimed book nerd who has expanded her love for literature by becoming a Bookstagrammer and starting the Soulful Series Video podcast.   In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Annie Cathryn about her debut novel, creative process, publishing journey, and why we should read our book's reviews.    In this episode, Lynne and Annie discuss:  Early memories of writing & the teachers who encourage us Why and when to leave another career to write a book Writing two fantasy novels before diving into women's fiction The inspiration for The Friendship Breakup The traditional publishing journey Benefits of outlining and plotting a book Using Instagram for book marketing How Annie is marketing The Friendship Breakup Advantages to reading your book reviews   Links and Resources:  The Friendship Breakup The Lightning Thief Caraval by Stephanie Garber What is a saggy middle? Plotting vs. Pantsing Lynne's Classes Alcove Press   Find Annie Cathryn: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram TikTok   If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 135 – Camille Pagan – Making Writing Your Career Episode 128 - Becky Robinson - Building Reach for Your Book Episode 100 – Bassie Shemtov – How to Combine Career and Family to Really Make a Difference Episode 79 - Laura Munson - How to Find Refuge in Writing  

Welcome to a special episode of the Make Meaning Podcast!    As a full-time author, writing coach, and host of this podcast, Lynne Golodner never thought starting another business would be part of her plan. However, her passion for storytelling and a gap in the marketplace led Lynne to create Scotia Road Books, a new publishing imprint dedicated to providing a platform for women over 40 with strong voices that need to be heard. With a focus on contemporary, historical, and literary fiction, as well as narrative memoirs and essay collections, Scotia Road Books seeks to make a meaningful impact in the publishing world.   Joining Lynne on the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast are two repeat guests: Elizabeth Gowing, author and co-founder of Elbow Publishing, and Merle Saferstein, a journaling expert and author. They share their unique publishing journeys and insights on today's publishing options.   In this episode, Lynne, Elizabeth, and Merle discuss:  How and why your publishing journey can change from book to book The benefit of print-on-demand The power of journaling The different publishing options available to writers The costs of book publishing & why you might make more money with non-traditional paths Hybrid publishing The process to be published by Scotia Road Books Advice for authors looking for their right publishing path How to leave a legacy Book marketing & publicity   Links and Resources:  Great Mother Press The Balkans Travels in Blood and Honey Buy Elizabeth's books Buy Merle's books Elbow Publishing Bradt Travel Guides Living and Leaving My Legacy vol. 1 Scotia Road Books   Find Elizabeth Gowing: Website  Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter   Find Merle Saferstein: Website  Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter   If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 136 – Tammy Pasterick – Writing & Publishing Your Way Episode 130 – Merle Saferstein – Journaling & Legacy Episode 128 – Becky Robinson – Building Reach for Books Episode 118 – Elizabeth Gowing – How to Know a Place by Living its Stories Episode 61 – Merle Saferstein – How to leave a legacy through journaling  

The award-winning author of 11 books, Tom Sleigh is the latest author to be a guest on the Make Meaning Podcast. In this episode, Tom talks with host Lynne Golodner about how his love of language traces back to childhood, when his mother, an English teacher, first read Thoreau aloud.    That journey continued through decades when he was a war correspondent on the front lines in Lebanon and Syria to his archeologist days in southern Mexico and finally, to the resonance of the global COVID-19 pandemic, which turned us all into isolated individuals yearning for the connection that language brings.   In this episode, Lynne and Tom discuss:  The crossroads of journalism and poetry The importance of noticing details Feral cats on military tanks in southern Lebanon King James I's fascination with witches and also being a germophobe Writing articles about refugees How to make poetry accessible The profound sense of pleasure that comes with sitting with the words   Links and Resources:  THE KING'S TOUCH Walden by Henry David Thoreau Elizabeth Bishop French philosopher Pierre Teilhard de Chardin Swiss archeologist and photographer Gertrude Blom Na Bolom research center Alfred, Lord Tennyson's The Lady of Shalott Charles Bell   Find Tom Sleigh: Website  Facebook   If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes:   Episode 133 – Sara Henning – Poetry about Loss & Redemption Episode 120 – Jacqueline Suskin – A Poem Every Day Episode 119 – Roots – Israeli-Palestinian – Toward True Peace in the Middle East Episode 68 – M.L. Liebler – How to Use Writing & Performance to be an Activist Episode 32 – Lynne Golodner – A Poet's Legacy: Lynne Golodner Remembers Mary Oliver

Minda Zetlin has written columns for Inc. Magazine for more than a decade, and out of that research, reporting and curiosity grew the material and focus for her latest book, CAREER SELF-CARE. The latest author to share her story on the Make Meaning Podcast, Minda Zetlin talks with host Lynne Golodner about how crucial membership in the American Society of Journalists and Authors has been for her career, how self-doubt and self-belief have been her biggest challenges, and how important it is to not just build a career, but build a life you're happy to live.   In this episode, Lynne and Minda discuss:  Writing a book while still contributing articles Using what you have from your journalistic career to build a book directed by trends and reader interest Finding the right agent, publisher and contract for each book Keeping clients for a long time Thinking outside the box when it comes to marketing your book Being a solopreneur Mentoring & sponsoring Thinking about your writing career from a 20,000-foot perspective   Links and Resources:  ASJA Hungry Minds publishing Your People LLC American Management Association Brad Willis/Bhava Ram HARO New World Library   Find Minda Zetlin: Website  Twitter Facebook Instagram  LinkedIn   If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes:   Episode 121 – Stephanie Steinberg – On Personal Passions & Creating Communities Episode 116 – Jake Neher – Telling Stories and Planting Seeds Episode 63 – Nikki Little – Purpose at the Core Episode 56 – Ken Budd – How to be a voluntourist Episode 51 – Lynne Golodner and Christina Weaver – Storytelling Marketing & Strategic Messaging

Desiree Cooper was once a Detroit Free Press columnist, a Pulitzer Prize nominee, a Kresge Artist Fellow, an attorney and now she's a children's book author – which explains why she considers herself “genre agnostic.” The latest author to share her story on the Make Meaning Podcast, Desiree started writing professionally before social media was a thing, and readers regularly sent her letters and pictures in response to her columns. Her children's book NOTHING SPECIAL was three years in the making – and it might be her best creation yet.   In this episode, host Lynne Golodner interviews Desiree Cooper about how much books ignited her when she was a child, the friendship between her grandson and her father, moving from Detroit to Virginia to care for her parents, and the fabrication artist who helped bring her book to life.   In this episode, Lynne and Desiree discuss:  Launching the book in her yard The joy of being a featured book at the Miami Book Fair The Great Migration away from Jim Crow & the terrorism of the South The Great Reverse Migration trend of African-American families to gather for reunions in the South despite segregation and white supremacy All the touchpoints in the book – including a USAF hat, a University of Michigan shirt and a UVA pennant Author branding Themes of motherhood, family and one life making way for another   Links and Resources:  Booklist Know the Mother The Choice film Marilyn Nelson Flash fiction   Find Desiree Cooper: Website  Facebook Instagram  TikTok   If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes:   Episode 127 – Ly Tran – Writing Unapologetically Episode 121 – Stephanie Steinberg – On Personal Passions & Creating Communities Episode 118 – Elizabeth Gowing – How to Know a Place by Living Its Stories Episode 102 – Patrick Hicks – How to Write Historical Fiction Episode 97 – Eric Hale – How to Give Every Child a Chance, Even in the Most Poverty-Stricken Communities Episode 70 – Elena Reads – How to Stoke a Love of Reading in Kids

When your mother is an English teacher and your favorite TV show is Masterpiece Theater on PBS, it's almost inevitable that you'll take to writing creative, compelling, fantastical stories that captivate readers. “Writing was something I knew I could do,” says Sara Bennett Wealer, the latest author to share her story on the Make Meaning Podcast.   In this episode, host Lynne Golodner interviews Sara Bennett Wealer about how to make a living as a writer, how to earn money writing books and how they are not often the same thing. Sara discusses the importance of the author hustle to keep enough books in the pipeline so readers will keep returning to your words, and what to do when your first book goes nowhere.   In this episode, Lynne and Sara discuss:  What to do when your first agent is a “hot mess” What it's like when you finally click with an agent (shout-out to Holly Root and Root Literary!) Getting over publishing heartbreaks What to do when your books don't sell The importance of a tight time frame and compelling conflict Book tours How to market your books & your author brand How publishing is a long game   Links and Resources:  Books Forward Grave Things Like Love Rival Now & When Plotter or Pantser Harper Teen Rush Bloomsbury Spark   Find Sara Bennett Wealer: Website  Facebook Instagram  Twitter   If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes:   Episode 128 – Becky Robinson – Building Reach for Books Episode 117 – Steven Wingate – How to Find Your Voice Again & Again Episode 103 – Katie Yamasaki – How to Create a Mural That Represents a Community Episode 87 – Rasheda Kamaria Williams – How to Emerge Stronger After Being Bullied Episode 84 – Andrew Meloche – How to Make Every Student in a High School Feel Special & Noticed

The key to great writing, says Christopher P. Locke, is to be vulnerable. Don't worry about what people will think. Don't censor yourself. Just share your realness and that will help others feel less alone.   In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Christopher P. Locke about his writing journey, their shared memories in the MFA program at Goddard College, the importance of great mentors and taking yourself seriously as a writer.   In this episode, Lynne and Chris discuss:  The arrogance of youth Straddling genres Believing that you and your voice matter Why you'll be the most passionate promoter of your work Why you can't be a good writer if you're not an avid reader How writing allows for exploration of loss, discontent, struggle and suffering Why bad choices make good stories   Links and Resources:  Michael Klein Jane Wohl 25 Trumbulls Road Music for Ghosts Without Saints Black Lawrence Press NYQ Books Black River Chapbook Award Denis Johnson   Find Christopher P. Locke: Website  Facebook Instagram  Twitter   If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes:   Episode 133 – Sara Henning – Poetry about Loss & Redemption Episode 120 – Jacqueline Suskin -  A Poem Every Day Episode 79 – Laura Munson – How to Find Refuge in Writing Episode 73 – Jim Reese – Why Teaching Writing in Prisons Helps Everyone Episode 68 – M.L. Liebler – How to Use Writing & Performance to be an Activist Episode 2 – Barbara Jones – Stories Can Change the World

Tammy Pasterick didn't intend to become a historical fiction novelist. But when a deep dive into her family's immigrant history unearthed fascinating storylines about Eastern European emigres who settled in Pennsylvania, she knew she had a great story on her hands.   In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Tammy Pasterick about her journey of writing Beneath the Veil of Smoke and Ash, why she went for hybrid publishing, growing up in a family of steelworkers and coal miners, and her career as an investigator with the National Labor Relations Board, a paralegal and a German teacher.   In this episode, Lynne and Tammy discuss:  Mining your family history for ideas & identity Self-publishing and managing book marketing How Americans perceive immigrants What it takes to make a life in America Launching a writing career Beta readers Character development, literary arcs and voice   Links and Resources:  San Francisco Writers Conference NetGalley She Writes Press IngramSpark Penn State University Book Sparks Bookstagram Blog tour with the Coffee Pot Amor Towles Kristin Hannah Outlander   Find Tammy Pasterick: Website  Facebook Instagram    If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes:   Episode 129 – Rosina Lippi – Author of the Wilderness Series Episode 131 – Weina Dai Randel – The Last Rose of Shanghai Episode 123 – Karen Baum Gordon – On Surviving the Surviving Episode 102 – Patrick Hicks – How to Write Historical Fiction Episode 80 – Iris Lee Underwood – Author & Descendant of the McCoys of Appalachia

As a first-generation college student, Camille Pagan thought she'd study medicine. She ended up writing about health and then penned her first novel after the birth of her daughter, selling it at auction in a six-figure deal. But all was not easy after that. While Camille has enjoyed a hearty career as the bestselling author of eight novels, she endured ups, downs and redirects along the way and now guides other writers in staying the course to build success as an author.   In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Camille Pagan about being an author coach, query letters and mindset shifts, career strategy and setting goals for your writing.   In this episode, Lynne and Camille discuss:  How thoughts influence feelings, which lead to actions Why query letters are her superpower Why coaching is as rewarding as writing Being the brand for your author career Overcoming self-doubt Getting specific on your goals to make them happen   Links and Resources:  QueryTracker Publishers Marketplace Julie Buxbaum Jenny Bent Allison Winn Scotch Shutters on the Beach, Santa Monica Lake Union Jane Friedman's newsletter Radcliffe Publishing Course Colleen Hoover   Find Camille Pagan: Website  Facebook Twitter  Instagram  LinkedIn   If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes:   Episode 128 – Becky Robinson – Building Reach for Books Episode 121 – Stephanie Steinberg – On Personal Passions & Creating Communities Episode 117 – Steven Wingate – How to Find Your Voice Again & Again Episode 110 – Margaret Trimer – How to Define & Live by Your Core Values Episode 23 – Crazy Whole Life with Rev. Josephine Robertson

What began as penance for speeding has become a beloved radio show-turned-podcast called Simply Scottish that allows writer Andrew McDiarmid to stay connected to his heritage and his homeland. “Being an immigrant has enriched my life,” says Andrew, who emigrated to the United States from Scotland at the age of 11 and straddles cultures and countries in his identity and his affiliations.   In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Andrew McDiarmid about the influence of the Scots on North America, what they both love about podcasting, building community around great ideas and ways to impact people through writing.   In this episode, Lynne and Andrew discuss:  The Scottish diaspora How travel enlarges your perspective Relating to the underdog Stepping back to understand perspective Writing to inform and inspire Understanding where ideas & issues come from Lynne's Scottish writing sabbatical   Links and Resources:  Braveheart Your People marketing company Northwaters/Langskib Thistle & Shamrock with Fiona Ritchie Robert Burns Sir Walter Scott Nessie Lynne's Nova Scotia writers retreat Calum MacPhail C.S. Lewis   Find Andrew McDiarmid: Website  Facebook Twitter  Instagram  LinkedIn   If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes:   Episode 132 – Merryn Glover – Literary Fiction About Place Episode 77 – Jason Kadlitz – Building Community in a Barber Shop Episode 68 – M.L. Liebler – How To Use Writing & Performance to be an Activist Episode 67 – Clay Carnill – How to Podcast Episode 48 – The NFHS Reunion Episode: Reflecting on 30 Years Since Graduation

In her latest poetry collection, Sara Henning tries to make meaning of grief, after losing her mother to metastatic colon cancer. “I lost my center,” Sara says, and Terra Incognita is her way to regain a firm stance on this earth. In this episode, Sara does a live reading of her poem “Queening” around the 25-minute mark.   In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Sara Henning about where poetry comes from, how to let the soul speak and how to keep on living after immense grief. Her poems interrogate meaning, and Lynne and Sara discuss how poems – and all literature – can be a companion at our loneliest times.   In this episode, Lynne and Sara discuss:  Lynne's essays about losing her father – Swimming, Oysters, Waiting for My Father to Die The rituals of mourning Research as a defense mechanism Confessional writing 21st century creative nonfiction and the truth vs. one's truth Writing about parents “Doing It Scared”   Links and Resources:  Tell It Slant Robert Lowell Anne Sexton Heaven's Coast by Mark Doty The Crab Orchard Series Kevin Young's The Art of Losing Allison Joseph's My Father's Kites Patricia Smith's Blood Dazzler and Incendiary Art Marie Howe's What The Living Do Cheryl Strayed's Wild   Find Sara Henning: Website  Facebook Twitter  Instagram  LinkedIn   If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes:   Episode 127 – Ly Tran – Writing Unapologetically Episode 123 – Karen Baum Gordon – On Surviving the Surviving Episode 120 – Jacqueline Suskin – A Poem Every Day Episode 114 – Nancy Sharp – How to Turn Tragedy into Opportunity Episode 73 – Jim Reese – Why Teaching Writing in Prisons Helps Everyone

Episode 132 – Merryn Glover – Literary Fiction about Place   Merryn Glover writes literary fiction from the Scottish Highlands, deep into the Cairngorm Mountains. Her lyrical prose invokes place and relationship in gorgeous ways, her words rising from the page to attach to the reader's heart. Born in Kathmandu and raised in Nepal, Pakistan and India, Merryn is the daughter of Australian missionaries and moved to Scotland after she met the love of her life.   In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Merryn Glover about how a sense of place shapes us, how we belong, and the shifting territories of culture. Writing since she was young, Merryn is the author of two literary novels and a forthcoming homage to philosophical nature writer Nan Shepherd, the author of The Living Mountain.   In this episode, Lynne and Merryn discuss:  “Hill walking,” hiking in the Cairngorms and the lust for the summit Serving as writer in residence for Cairngorms National Park The slog to find an agent and a publisher & make money as a writer Taking the “unpath” Not pinning hopes or a sense of self on external markers of success How to build an author platform The art of marketing your books The interweaving of culture, place and landscape   Links and Resources:  The Guardian's Country Diary Highland LIT Helen Sedgwick XpoNorth Creative Industries Festival Northwoods Now Polygon Robert Macfarlane Nan Shepherd Prize Cathryn Summerhayes  

Weina Randel emigrated to the United States from China at the age of 24, switching from her native Chinese to English, as she began to write fiction. She wrote a duology about China's first and only female emperor, Wu Zetian, and then penned a truly stunning historical novel called The Last Rose of Shanghai, about a love story between a Chinese woman and a Jewish refugee in Shanghai during World War II. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Weina Randel about the long road to landing an agent and a multiple book deal with a traditional publisher, how to conduct research for historical fiction, and how “writing is an art, and publishing is a business.” In this episode, Lynne and Weina discuss:  The four years it took to land an agent & a book deal Establishing a dedicated writing practice How to come up with topics to write about Using maps and primary sources for historical research Beat sheets & character outlines How to market your books without hiring a publicist Changes in the publishing industry What to do if you're afraid to share your writing   Links and Resources:  The Last Rose of Shanghai Elizabeth George book on craft, Mastering the Process The Jewish Book Council Lake Union publishing Weina Randel emigrated to the United States from China at the age of 24, switching from her native Chinese to English, as she began to write fiction. She wrote a duology about China's first and only female emperor, Wu Zetian, and then penned a truly stunning historical novel called The Last Rose of Shanghai, about a love story between a Chinese woman and a Jewish refugee in Shanghai during World War II. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Weina Randel about the long road to landing an agent and a multiple book deal with a traditional publisher, how to conduct research for historical fiction, and how “writing is an art, and publishing is a business.” In this episode, Lynne and Weina discuss:  The four years it took to land an agent & a book deal Establishing a dedicated writing practice How to come up with topics to write about Using maps and primary sources for historical research Beat sheets & character outlines How to market your books without hiring a publicist Changes in the publishing industry What to do if you're afraid to share your writing Links and Resources:  The Last Rose of Shanghai Elizabeth George book on craft, Mastering the Process The Jewish Book Council Lake Union publishing The Moon Palace   Find Weina Randel: Website  Facebook Twitter  Instagram  LinkedIn

Merle Saferstein has been journaling since 1974, so when she decided to comb through her nearly 400 journals to create a book, she knew it would not be an easy endeavor. It has taken the better part of the last two decades to create LIVING AND LEAVING MY LEGACY, volume 1, which debuted in June 2022 to much acclaim. Volume 2 will be published in June 2023. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Merle Saferstein – the first guest to make a repeat appearance on the Make Meaning Podcast! – about journaling, legacy, ethical wills and writing on a daily basis to clear your mind and be a historian for your life. (Listen to Merle's first interview on the Make Meaning Podcast here.) In this episode, Lynne and Merle discuss:  The process of creating her most recent book Journaling for self-care and compassion Why there are really no rules for journaling How to create an ethical will The power of writing first thing every morning How journaling frees you up to write Why a writer of nonfiction might consider journaling a great tool Confronting uncomfortable topics Links and Resources:  Living and Leaving My Legacy vol. 1 Tara Mohr Sexual abuse hotline The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron Find Merle Saferstein: Website  Facebook Twitter Instagram  LinkedIn

Rosina Lippi writes under her own name and under the pseudonym Sara Donati, and her Wilderness series of six historical novels is some of the most gorgeous fiction you'll ever read. A former linguistics professor, Rosina has been writing for decades and built quite a following, even as the publishing industry has changed. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Rosina Lippi about how to make fiction your career, frustrations with book marketing, and how to create believable characters in authentic landscapes. In the episode, Rosina quotes George Orwell on writing: “Writing a book is an exhausting struggle. One would never undertake such a thing if one were not driven on by some demon whom one can neither resist nor understand.” In this episode, Lynne and Rosina discuss:  Making money as a novelist Historical fiction Retelling history with real women in the stories Choosing a pen name to not “confound reader expectations” How publishing has changed over the decades How to authentically show race, indigeneity and survival in colonial times Marketing & PR for books How to handle negative feedback on your writing Links and Resources:  Rosina Lippi Into the Wilderness (book 1) Sara Donati Elizabeth Bennet The Last of the Mohicans by James Fenimore Cooper The Pen/Hemingway award Homestead  Congo Square Lynne Golodner's Author Brand Marketing Mastermind Kirkus Review Stranger than Fiction film   Find Rosina Lippi: Website  Facebook Twitter  Instagram  LinkedIn

Imagine starting a company to give yourself an income source that is compatible with your role as a mom of small children. And then, as that company grows, realizing your role is really about creating opportunities for others – providing meaningful, flexible work, access to great content and guidance to reach goals and grow influence.  And then, 10 years in, you write a book about everything you learned and have an early reader community of more than 400 people who are chomping at the bit to read your book. That's Becky Robinson's story.  In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Becky Robinson about her first book, Reach: Create the biggest possible audience for your message, book, or cause. They discuss the successful book marketing business that inspired the tome, Becky's writing and publishing process, and the 4-step formula for growing your reach. In this episode, Lynne and Becky discuss:  Building a book launch team Becky's approach to book marketing Social media, email marketing & websites Creating value Content marketing Meaning, purpose and making a difference How to help marginalized individuals face challenges growing their reach  The 4 Commitments Growing an online audience in a noisy marketplace How to be memorable & meaningful Links and Resources:  Dan Rockwell Lynne Golodner's Author Brand Mastermind Mark Miller David Cooperrider – Appreciative Inquiry Weaving Influence Buy Becky's Book Find Becky Robinson: Website  Facebook Twitter  Instagram  LinkedIn Podcast The Make Meaning Podcast will be on hiatus until October 2022, at which point we will kick off with interviews featuring Rosina Lippi (a.k.a. Sara Donati), Merle Saferstein, Sara Henning, Andrew McDiarmid, Christopher P. Locke, and more authors and writers!

So many writers say they write to figure out what they believe or make sense of a situation. Ly Tran says she writes to overcome self-doubt and to celebrate her voice. More than that, she says her words connect her to others, and the best part of putting a book in the world is the feedback she gets from readers who say that her story touched them in a deep and meaningful way. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Ly Tran about her memoir, House of Sticks, which took six years to write after landing a contract simply by the strength of her pages as presented to a professor. Ly came to America at the age of 3, a Vietnamese refugee who was a sweatshop worker as a child and spent a decade failing school as her vision deteriorated. Literature was her only refuge, holding books close to her face to commune with characters. With the gift of a pair of contacts at high school graduation, she eventually made it to Columbia University, where instructors saw her gifts and encouraged her to write her incredible story.  In this episode, Lynne and Ly discuss:  Her parents' response to her truth-telling: “You do what you need to do.” Finding identity in food and language Embodying multiple conflicting identities The myth of “the American dream” Realizing that she's not like other kids and learning to find her own way How books can be our salvation Code-switching How to honor family and values while assimilating Her next book, a historical novel about the Tru'ng Sisters The need for strong Asian-American voices Links and Resources:  The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison The Model Minority Myth My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante Columbia University Writers in New York at NYU Fierce Attachments by Vivian Gornick Maps to Anywhere by Bernard Cooper Find Ly Tran: Website  Facebook Twitter  Instagram  Coming up next on the Make Meaning Podcast: Lynne interviews Becky Robinson, founder of Weaving Influence and author of Reach: Create the biggest possible audience for your message, book, or cause.

Do you do fun things often? Do you take risks? Are you connected to a community that makes you feel good about who you are? These are essential elements of a healthy life, according to Dr. Indigo Willing, who started skateboarding in her 40s, after finishing her PhD and becoming a “mum.” It was something she always wanted to do but never thought it was open to her – and now she's not only great on the board, she's a global role model for creating access for all who want to hop on. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Indigo Willing about growing up as an “outsider,” as a Vietnamese orphan adopted into an Australian family, fulfilling her grandmother's advice (community before cliques and people before popularity), and creating access for all. In this episode, Lynne and Indigo discuss:  The importance of consent Diversity in skateboarding First Nations and Indigenous skateboard companies Teaching research methods at Griffith University How fun is an essential part of human well-being Why skateboarding is “like oxygen” Careers in skateboarding Connecting to ancestors and culture Trying to make skateboarding inclusive across the board   Links and Resources:  Consent Is Rad We Skate Queensland Adopted Vietnamese International Network Oldster article about Indigo Willing Evie Ryder Tora Waldren Lily Turek Millie Miljevic Apache Skateboards Nation Skate Youth Kim Woozy Skate Like a Girl Billy Elliot Tet Festival Day of the Dead   Find Indigo Willing: Website  Facebook Twitter  Instagram  LinkedIn Coming up next on the Make Meaning Podcast: Lynne interviews Ly Tran, author of the memoir House of Sticks, about being a Vietnamese refugee and American immigrant, working in a sweatshop as a child, and making it to Columbia University while trying to preserve her family's honor.

Sometimes inspiration comes from sources very close to home. While spending more time with his family during the Covid-19 pandemic, Jeffrey was inspired to pass on his experience and values to younger generations by writing a children's book starring his own grandchildren, I Don't Want to Turn 3.   In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Gramps Jeffrey about his business background, his transition from entrepreneur to author of children's books, and why he believes influencing younger generations is our true purpose.  In this episode, Lynne and Jeffrey discuss:  His first book, The Secrets of Retailing,: Or: How to Beat Wal-Mart! Writing for the Huffington Post  Discovering a love of writing through journaling Becoming inspired to write during a backpacking trip in his youth His writing process  His first children's book: I Don't Want to Turn 3  The importance of grandparents being present for their grandchildren Lessons his grandfather taught him  Links and Resources:  Dollar Days Arianna Huffington Borders Barnes and Noble Episode 116 – Jake Neher  Baby Boomers  WWII - Pacific Fighter Pilot History  Find Gramps Jeffrey: Website  Blog  Facebook Twitter  Instagram  LinkedIn Coming up next on the Make Meaning Podcast: Lynne interviews Dr. Indigo Willing about her books, skateboarding, and her organizations, Consent is Rad, Adopted Vietnamese International (AVI), and We Skate Queensland.

As a young woman, Dorit Sasson moved to Israel and served in the Israel Defense Forces as a lone soldier. After 18 years, Dorit returned to the United States, and those decisions, along with the details of her life in both places, inspired two memoirs about straddling cultures, languages, and definitions of home. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, Dorit speaks with host Lynne Golodner about her books, Accidental Solider and Sand and Steel, which were driven by her determination for self-exploration, observation and a desire to connect. As someone who identifies as Israeli by culture and language, yet never stepped foot in a synagogue while she lived in the Jewish State, Dorit talks with Lynne about the many identities of Israel - a nation, a religion, and a people. In this episode, Lynne and Dorit discuss: Her journey to Israel and return to the United States Her time serving in the IDF as a lone soldier The close-knit structure of Israeli communities The differences between statehood, identity and culture Israel as the most misunderstood country in the world The beauty of Hebrew Anti-semitism and Anti-Zionism Links and Resources: Kibbutz Nahal Brigade Israeli Economy Today History of Israel Israel Population by Religion Israeli Identities Ashkenazi Judaism Mizrahi Judaism Sephardi Judaism Orthodox Judaism Conservative Judaism Reform Judaism Islam Christianity Druze Bedouin Find Dorit Sasson: Website LinkedIn Facebook Instagram

It took 10 years for Karen Baum Gordon to write and publish her memoir, The Last Letter: A father's struggle, a daughter's quest, and the long shadow of the Holocaust, under the guidance of a friend who was an editor at McGraw-Hill. The book explores generations of her family through letters, while grappling with the ancestral trauma and psychological legacy of terror, genocide and persecution. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, Karen speaks with host Lynne Golodner about the complexities of identity, what inspired her to write a memoir even though she never considered herself a writer, how she understands the legacy of family, and embracing intergenerational love, loss and life. In this episode, Lynne and Karen discuss: The constant act of becoming The legacy of her grandparents, who perished in the Holocaust The notion of “surviving the surviving” How keeping a journal helps with the writing of a memoir Intergenerational Trauma Antisemitism Being Jewish and American, in what order? Confronting family sadness & how children are impacted, or influenced, by their parents' pain Combining the quotidian details of her grandparents' lives, excerpts of their letters and her own ponderings Links and Resources: Harvard College Columbia Business School Media Transformation Challenge Program Poynter Institute Baltimore Orioles The Chronicle of the Lodz Ghetto Lodz Ghetto Finding Your Voice at Midlife Rabbi Rick Jacobs Union for Reform Judaism Buchenwald Brooklyn Heights Synagogue Congregation Beth Ahm Your People LLC The Museum of Jewish Heritage Strategic Horizons, Inc. McKinsey & Co. Find Karen Baum Gordon Website Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

The colonizing of America separated Indigenous people from their nourishing “first foods,” plant and animal species that native communities relied upon for subsistence, ceremony and medicine. More than a decade ago, the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC), Michigan Technological University (MTU), and the Western UP Planning and Development Region came together to create a space that celebrated and preserved the knowledge and cultural identity of tribal people living in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. From this collaboration came the Debweyendan Indigenous Garden (DIGs), a place to grow foods and medicines and drive the community toward food sovereignty. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews two important DIGs contributors:  Valoree Gagnon, Assistant Professor in the College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science at Michigan Tech and Director for University-Indigenous Community Partnerships at the Great Lakes Research Center; and Karena Schmidt, an ecologist with the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Natural Resources Department. In this episode, Lynne, Val, and Karena discuss:  The creation & growth of DIGs How to define native foods  The importance of food sovereignty  The native communities of Michigan's Upper Peninsula  How to be an ally to Native Americans Loving the land you come from Finding the foods native to your community Your role in achieving food sovereignty Links and Resources:  History of First Foods Diabetes & the Native American Diet  Remote Indigenous Gardens Network  Debweyendan Indigenous Garden Keweenaw Bay Indian Community  KBIC Natural Resources Department  Michigan Technological University (MTU) Western UP Planning and Development Region Great Lakes Research Center  University of Arizona  The Seed Keeper Elizabeth Hoover, Indigenous Food Sovereignty in the United States  Robin Wall Kimmerer  Potawatomi   Anishinaabe Ojibwe Odawa Pow Wow Michigan Tribes  Keweenaw Peninsula  Dr. Martin Reinhardt  Sean Sherman - the Sioux Chief

Stephanie Steinberg always knew she wanted to be a writer. From a young age, she chased her creative nature, which led her to become a published author, a successful journalist, and an inspiring entrepreneur.  In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, Stephanie speaks with host Lynne Golodner about their passion for their alma mater (University of Michigan), Stephanie's two books, her experience as editor-in-chief of the Michigan Daily at the University of Michigan (where Lynne was a staff writer, many years before Stephanie!), the founding of the Detroit Writing Room and why she believes your best work comes from following your passions.  In this episode, Lynne and Stephanie discuss:  University of Michigan Football  Her time at the Michigan Daily  What she loves most about writing The development of the Detroit Writing Room  The importance of mentors How she pivoted her business during the COVID-19 pandemic The perks and detriments of virtual meetings  Links and Resources:  Detroit Writing Room Bill Vlasic Anna Clark  Writer Wednesday  Laura Berman  Fisher Foundation Coaching Detroit Forward Camps  Sacred Overstreet-Amos Kidsworld Barrie Muzbeck Find Stephanie Steinberg:   Website  Linkedin Facebook Instagram Twitter Find the Detroit Writing Room: Website Facebook  Twitter Instagram

Jacqueline Suskin has been a poet all her life. It's something she was born with, she says, and this passion for poetry has led her to build a career where people pay her to write poems about their experiences, their longings, their celebrations, and their desires. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, Jacqueline speaks with host Lynne Golodner about Poem Store, the entrepreneurial venture she created in 2009 by taking a typewriter to public spaces and writing spontaneous poems for payment; her seven books (plus the new one she's working on); why she believes meaning is a choice and how being able to assign meaning to ordinary objects and experiences is what sets humans apart from every other creature. In this episode, Lynne and Jacqueline discuss:  Her latest book, Every Day Is a Poem How she works with people in one-on-one sessions What it feels like to write poems spontaneously & for commission Why she never keeps a copy of a commissioned poem How poetry is the conduit we need to ponder the depths in this crazy time How all people experience the same celebrating, grieving, longing and loving, and how everyone wants to connect to these experiences through language Links and Resources; Jacqueline Suskin Poem Store Lynne Golodner Lynne's Finding Your Voice at Midlife Writers Workshop The Hollywood Farmers Market Commune Typing poems in Oakland, California   Find Jacqueline Suskin: Website Facebook Instagram Twitter

Noor A'wad and Rabbi Hanan Schlesinger may have come to the question of how Palestinians and Israelis can co-exist on land that they both claim as sacred from different perspectives, but through their work with Roots, the Palestinian Israeli Grassroots Initiative for Understanding, Nonviolence and Transformation, they are figuring out a way to share the land while respecting both communities' claims on it. In this first episode of 2022, the Make Meaning Podcast looks at one of the world's greatest global concerns and begins to make sense of it by speaking to two inspiring leaders in the quest for reconciliation. Noor A'wad is a Palestinian whose family moved to Palestine after the Oslo Accords were signed in the hope that it would be a new opportunity for their family. Growing up in that shattered dream, Noor became a voice for co-existence and understanding. Rabbi Hanan Schlesinger made aliyah to Israel from the United States decades ago as a religious Jewish settler in the West Bank. He sought to meet his Palestinian neighbors but found it was nearly impossible to do so, since Israeli military law forbids the two populations from residing or gathering in each other's communities. He is a founder of Roots as a way to make sense out of a truly perplexing situation. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, Noor and Hanan speak with host Lynne Golodner about the work that Roots does to bring together Palestinians and Israelis in the West Bank toward building relationships and understanding. Their goal is apolitical – generating dialogue, hosting meetings and summer camps, offering photography workshops and generally building relationships that pave the way for lasting understanding and co-existence. In this episode, Lynne, Noor and Hanan discuss:  The importance of using the right terminology (it's not a “conflict” – given the differences in power) The “hubris of exclusivity” How media on both sides (and around the world) are part of the problem That identity is the core of the conflict That today's situation dates back to 1948 Why a two-state solution is ideal, but not the two-state solution that most people think of The importance of accepting each other's legitimacy That self-definition and self-determination are essential for lasting peace   Links and Resources: Roots The Oslo Accords (History.com) The Oslo Accords (U.S. government site) The Second Intifada The West Bank A Land for All   Find Roots:Website Facebook Facebook (Noor)Facebook (Hanan)Instagram (Roots)Instagram (Noor) LinkedIn (Hanan)

Elizabeth Gowing's life changed when she moved from London to Kosovo in 2006 for her partner's job on what was supposed to be a six-month contract. Fifteen years later, Elizabeth speaks Albanian, teaches English and leads The Ideas Partnership, an NGO that offers support to people through education, health and social welfare as well as offering literacy classes, and arts and dance sessions. Driven by a background in primary education and education policy, Elizabeth launched the nonprofit organization in 2009 to help children and families in the region. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, Elizabeth speaks with host Lynne Golodner about the events that inspired The Ideas Partnership, how she writes about “slices of life around the world,” and the importance of seizing the moment, all the time. Elizabeth offers ideas for listeners about how to use joy to make change in the world. In this episode, Lynne and Elizabeth discuss:  How learning a language deepens connections The importance of education for all children How to tackle systemic problems by thinking big & staying small Being authentic in your writing The value of spontaneity Storytelling as a way to better understanding   Links and Resources; Kosovo The Ideas Partnership Kosovo Ministry of Education UNICEF EU Award for Roma Integration Mother Teresa Medal for Humanitarian Work Tara Mohr: Hooked vs. Unhooked  Maya Angelou Quote Travels in Blood and Honey: Becoming a Beekeeper in Kosovo BBC Radio 4 Writing Finding Your Voice at Midlife Writers Course with Lynne Golodner Mary Edith Durham and the Royal Anthropological Society Frederick Buechner Quote Sapune Find Elizabeth Gowing: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Blog

Steven Wingate writes to learn foundational truths such as: Who are we? And, why do we behave the way we do? A resident of South Dakota, Steven sets his novels in the center of America, known as the heartland, flyover country or a big open expanse of unbridled wilderness. He writes about this place that he calls home to showcase its beauty and its people. Two of his books, The Leave Takers and Of Fathers and Fire have found acclaim in the Nebraska Flyover Fiction series. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, Steven speaks with host Lynne Golodner about teaching writing at South Dakota State University, his writing process, family and finding his voice. He believes we have many authentic voices inside us, and writing is all about tuning into the voice that speaks best for each story. He says good writing is when you feel resonance between the stories and yourself. 

In a way, every person is a storyteller, according to Jake Neher, senior producer for Detroit Today on 101.9 FM WDET in Detroit. As co-host of the weekly series and podcast MichMash,  not only does Jake have storytelling gifts, but he brings a huge passion for gardening to guide his curiosity when choosing guests and asking questions. As his radio career took him to Barrow, Alaska, New York City and finally Detroit, Jake nurtured this interest in growing things, via a little hydroponic garden in the dark and cold of America's northernmost reaches to a lone tomato plant on a fire escape in NYC. Living in Detroit with his wife and two sons allows Jake to spend his off-the-air hours in a backyard filled with vibrant produce and plenty of space to garden!    In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, Jake speaks with host Lynne Golodner about how he combined his passion for gardening and radio into a special series, WDET: At Home, offering tips for people learning to garden during the pandemic. He talks about how gardening can teach us to find value in underappreciated things like soil - something we tread upon every day feeds our plants and therefore feeds us. Just as he nourishes his passion for gardening, Jake suggests that we all engage with our passions unabashedly and see where they lead us.   In this episode, Lynne and Jake discuss:  How everyone is a storyteller Ways to get the whole family involved in gardening How what we read impacts the way we write How gardening can be revolutionary Tips for gardening newbies The importance of geeking out about your passions   Links and Resources: You are a Storyteller Podcast with Brian McDonald Michigan Public Radio Network Central Michigan University Aero Hydroponic Gardens Minnesota Midget Cantaloupe Joan Cherry Isabella Program Director for 101.9 WDET Ron Finley Ted Talk: A guerrilla gardener in South Central LA University of Iowa Writers' Workshop Michael Carey WDET Series: Rooted by Annamarie Sysling Charles Dowding   Find Jake Neher: Twitter  LinkedIn Facebook Instagram

Dean Stark began working at Sacramento Waldorf School when he was 21. That was 37 years ago, and when he began, he had no intention of staying so long because he imagined he would go on to coach at bigger and bigger schools until he possibly landed an opportunity to coach college basketball. But staying was a great decision - perhaps the decision of his lifetime, Dean says. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, Dean speaks with host Lynne Golodner about how coaching SacWaldorf teams turned into his dream job because of the depth of his relationship with the students and the style of the education. Dean has written two books about his experiences and coaching philosophy, with the most recent one, Uncommon: Inside my Coaching Career at Sacramento Waldorf, one of the focuses of this interview. In this book, Dean emphasizes the importance of developing a philosophy for your life - by reflecting upon what has brought you success, where you need to improve, and using those questions to identify your strengths and how to achieve your goals moving forward.