True Fiction Project

What makes a gripping thriller impossible to put down? Is it the twisty plot, the flawed hero, or the chilling consequences of one wrong move?Welcome! Today, I'm thrilled to introduce a guest whose stories leap off the page with intensity and imagination—Armand Rosamilia. A prolific writer with an impressive body of work spanning crime novels, thrillers, supernatural horror, zombies, contemporary fiction, and nonfiction, Armand is the kind of storyteller who begins with one intriguing question: What if? And from there, a gripping tale unfolds. In today's conversation, we'll be diving into his novel Shake Down, and you'll also hear a powerful excerpt capturing the chilling moment when Walt, a low-level crew member, realizes his final mistake may have cost him everything—including his life.IN THIS EPISODE:(02:39) Armand discusses the different genres he writes, with crime/thrillers being the most profitable(03:40) The “business” of writing—how Armand turned his passion into a full-time profession(09:33) Armand explains character development and the role of Patreon in his creative process(17:04) The evolution of Clayton Conway, a central figure in his fiction(22:41) A gripping read-aloud from Shake Down that describes the fatal price of a botched jobKEY TAKEAWAYS:Armand Rosamilia has been a full-time writer for 13 years, which he attributes to a strategic blend of writing in high-performing genres like crime thrillers (which earn him significantly more than horror) and maintaining a business mindset. He writes what sells while still occasionally indulging in passion projects.Armand uses short stories as marketing tools, “reader magnets,” and experiments in character development. These stories—often published in anthologies or released to his Patreon and newsletter—introduce readers to characters from his longer works, helping build engagement and anticipation for his full-length novels.Armand follows a hybrid publishing model—self-publishing under his imprint (Rimfire Books) while also working with small and large presses. This approach broadens his audience, shares production costs, and provides him with access to the built-in fan bases of other publishers, thereby increasing discoverability and long-term earnings.Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free, or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode. You will also be eligible for other extras, such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction, and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora FICTION CREDITS:Excerpt written and ready by: Armand RosamiliaGUEST RESOURCES:Armand Rosamilia - WebsiteArmand Rosamilia - Horror Author - LinkedInArmand Rosamilia - FacebookAuthor Armand Rosamilia - Facebook BusinessArmand Rosamilia (@ArmandAuthor) - XArmand Rosamilia (@armand_rosamilia) • Instagram Photos and VideosShake Down (First Coast Thriller Series): 9798401775757: Rosamilia, Amazon Armand: BooksHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIO:Armand Rosamilia is a New Jersey boy currently living in sunny Florida, where he writes when he's not sleeping. He's happily married to a woman who helps his career and is supportive, which is all he ever wanted in life. He has written over 200 stories that are currently available, including crime thrillers, supernatural thrillers, horror, zombie fiction, contemporary fiction, nonfiction, and more. His goal is to write a good story and not worry about genre labels. He also loves to talk in third person… because he's really that cool. Maybe.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

I'm excited to sit down with a very talented writer, entrepreneur, and academic researcher, Rhonda Parker Taylor. Her debut novel, Crossroads, is rooted in personal tragedy—the loss of her adopted son—and shaped by her journey through professional setbacks. We explore how fiction can be a spiritual mirror, and how her story caught the attention of Mariel Hemingway, granddaughter of Ernest Hemingway. You'll also hear a gripping excerpt from Crossroads, capturing the haunting aftermath of a life-altering choice that will change a young man's life. Tune in for a robust conversation about how storytelling can heal, reveal, and predict real life. IN THIS EPISODE: (03:35) Rhonda shares how entrepreneurship and academics came together to write crime fiction (07:27) Discussion of writing a novel and how life can mirror fiction (09:12) How Mariel Hemingway, granddaughter of Ernest Hemingway, came to endorse Crossroads (12:56) Rhonda shares a moment from the book where a young man makes the wrong choice (15:01) Rhonda reads a passage from Crossroads describing the aftermath of a murder the night before, and Billy did not know what to do KEY TAKEAWAYS: Professional setbacks and personal tragedy drove Rhonda's journey from business professional to academic researcher and fiction writer. A humiliating experience with a business proposal motivated her to improve her writing, eventually leading her to publish Crossroads. The tragic loss of her adopted son profoundly influenced her emotional perspective, paralleling elements of her novel's plot and reinforcing her belief in the transformative power of storytelling. Writing can reflect or even predict real life, making storytelling a powerful form of personal and spiritual expression. This perspective underscores storytelling as more than mere entertainment; it's portrayed as a deeply personal and sometimes prophetic expression of the inner self. The endorsement of Crossroads by Mariel Hemingway—actress and granddaughter of Ernest Hemingway—was not just a stroke of luck, but a meaningful alignment. Hemingway resonated with the novel's central character and themes of emotional struggle and personal reinvention. Her support underscores how powerful fiction can reflect universal life experiences and invite deeper introspection. Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free, or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode. You will also be eligible for other extras, such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction, and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora   FICTION CREDITS: Written and read by: Rhonda Parker Taylor  GUEST RESOURCES: Rhonda Parker Taylor - Facebook Rhonda Parker Taylor - Instagram Rhonda Parker Taylor - Twitter Rhonda Parker Taylor - LinkedIn Rhonda Parker Taylor - TikTok Suspense Thriller Crossroads by Rhonda Parker Taylor - Website  Crossroads - Amazon Crossroads - Barnes and Noble   HOST RESOURCES Website LinkedIn  Tiktok  Instagram  Facebook  Twitter (X)  Substack  Threads  LinkTree   BIO: Rhonda Parker Taylor is an American writer, entrepreneur, and academic researcher. Rhonda's diverse writing spans from educational works to fiction, and she is well-known for her research on emotional intelligence. Her academic achievements extend to being a prominent leader, having presented at the United Nations Global Compact Committee. Her debut novel, “Crossroads,” a suspenseful masterpiece, was released in February 2023. Endorsed by bestselling author J.J. Hebert and Golden Globe-nominated actress Mariel Hemingway, the novel has been hailed as a captivating crime thriller that keeps readers intrigued from start to finish. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hi everyone! I am so excited to bring you Vicky McGrath on this week's episode of the True Fiction Project to discuss her graphic novel The Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact - Tails from the Clinic. Victoria was inspired by her daughter's desire to become a veterinarian, and she uses her childhood hometown to bring the setting of The Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact: Tails from the Clinic to life. Listen in as Victoria reads an excerpt from her book about two excited middle-grade friends on their way to the veterinary clinic after school.IN THIS EPISODE:(02:10) Vicky shares how she developed the foundation for the series of novels (06:59) Vicky tells why she chose to write a graphic novel for middle grade(08:41) How did Victoria find an illustrator(13:36) Vicky reads a passage from The Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact describing how her characters met due to their moms owning a veterinary clinic togetherKEY TAKEAWAYS:Vicky's journey into writing her middle-grade fantasy graphic novel series, Tails from the Clinic, began during the COVID-19 lockdowns. As an in-person, service-based business owner in Ontario, she had to pivot her work life drastically. Writing became a source of stress relief and a way to combat isolation and anxiety—what started as a creative outlet eventually blossomed into a full-fledged book series.The inspiration behind the series stems from her daughter's lifelong dream of becoming a veterinarian. The main characters' mothers are vets who co-own a clinic, and the story is rooted in Vicky's childhood hometown. Vicky gravitated toward the graphic novel format because of her childhood love for comics like Tintin. Though she isn't an illustrator, she collaborated closely with her publisher and artist to bring her detailed vision to life, making her books accessible and appealing—especially to reluctant readers and those who thrive on visual storytelling.Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free, or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode. You will also be eligible for other extras, such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction, and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora FICTION CREDITS:Written by Vicky McGrathRead by Vicky McGrathGUEST RESOURCES:Vicky McGrath - FacebookThe Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact - AmazonThe Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact - Barnes and NobleThe Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact - Indigo ChaptersVicky McGrath - WebsiteVicky McGrath - InstagramHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIO:Vicky McGrath is the author of a middle-grade children's graphic novel series, Tails From the Clinic. Vicky began writing the novel series during the COVID-19 lockdown as a creative outlet, inspired by her daughter's desire to become a veterinarian and their shared love for Harry Potter. Before becoming an author, Vicky owned and ran a senior care business for eight years. Vicky enjoys writing fantasy and incorporating fun, humor and adventure with the main themes of friendship, love and bravery.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hello, everyone! I am thrilled to visit with Mark Steven Porro, who has led a fascinating life, taking him from Hollywood to caring for his mother, the inspiration that led him to write A Cup of Tea on the Commode. This heartfelt memoir captures the raw, authentic, and humorous moments of caring for a loved one. Stay tuned as Mark reads an excerpt from his book, detailing an unusual conversation between mother and son during their seemingly normal morning routine. Tune in to hear more!IN THIS EPISODE:(02:10) Mark speaks about his current home in France and his childhood(04:54) Mark began his acting career with stars like Chuck Norris and Tom Hanks(08:26) An award-winning short film called SUV: Sport Utility Vehicle (12:08) Mark moves from Hollywood back to his childhood home to care for his mother(16:32) Mark reads a conversation he and his mother had that inspired A Cup of Tea on the Commode(20:46) Mark reads an excerpt from A Cup of Tea on the CommodeKEY TAKEAWAYS:Mark's journey showcases his strong entrepreneurial drive, from launching multiple businesses to creating a unique snack food company in honor of his father. His ability to balance creative pursuits with business ventures serves as an inspiration to all of us.Mark has explored various artistic avenues, including acting, directing, writing, and industrial design. His work in Hollywood includes roles in Hill Street Blues and Castaway, along with his award-winning short film. Now residing in a historic village in southwest France, Mark immerses himself in a creative environment rich in theater, history, and artistic inspiration. His move emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with a stimulating atmosphere to fuel creativity.Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free, or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode. You will also be eligible for other extras, such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction, and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora FICTION CREDITS:Written by Mark Steven PorroRead by Mark Steven PorroGUEST RESOURCES:A Cup of Tea on the Commode - WebsiteA Cup of Tea on the Commode - FacebookA Cup of Tea on the Commode - YouTubeA Cup of Tea on the Commond - Twitter (X)A Cup of Tea on the Commode - InstagramMark Steven Porro - LinkedInA Cup of Tea on the Commode - PinterestA Cup of Tea on the Commode - TikTokSUV Sport Utility Vehicle - YouTubeHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIO:Mark Steven Porro, a New Jersey native (Exit 163), earned an Industrial Design degree from Ohio State University. After years in agency work, his passion for acting took him to Hollywood, where he appeared in numerous TV, film, and stage productions. Along the way, Mark launched five non-profit companies, none of which were planned for applause. Now living in the South of France, he enjoys life in wine country, where the locals assure him his French isn't so bad—at least, that's what he believes they're saying. An award-winning designer, writer, director, and best-selling author, Mark's debut memoir, A Cup of Tea on the Commode, chronicles the bittersweet and humorous journey of caring for his mother in her final years. Though his efforts weren't always perfect, he came pretty close.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hello, everyone! I'm thrilled to welcome the incredibly talented Laila Khan Furniturewalla to the show. Laila comes from a renowned and multitalented family, led by her father, the legendary Indian filmmaker, actor, and writer, Feroz Khan. While her roots are in film, Laila has carved her path in mixed media art, drawing inspiration from Ganesha—the beloved elephant god honored across and revered amongst various cultures. Listen as Laila recounts fond memories of her father and his dedication to perfecting his craft. As a special treat at the end of the episode, we'll hear a song dedicated to Laila by her father, Feroz Khan from the film Qurbani. See below for more information on Laila's upcoming art show!IN THIS EPISODE:(02:24) Laila shares the type of art she creates (05:32) Laila discusses her father and his contributions to the film industry in India(10:16) Why wasn't Laila encouraged to pursue acting(12:09) Laila explains how the song Laila O Laila was inspired (16:11) Discussion of the actresses' careers launched because of the film Qurbani(21:00) Listen to the song Laila O Laila from the film QurbaniKEY TAKEAWAYS:Laila Furniturewalla's artwork is deeply inspired by spirituality and Indian culture, especially the elephant-headed deity Ganesh. She explores themes of divinity, abstraction, and formlessness, using mixed media and textures to create almost sculptural canvases that invite the viewer to complete the interpretation.Laila is the daughter of legendary Indian filmmaker and artist Feroz Khan. Growing up in a creative, intellectual household filled with art, sculpture, and film, she was influenced by her father's aesthetic sensibilities. She chose to follow her artistic path, embracing the self-expression of visual art.The beloved Hindi film song Laila O Laila was named after and inspired by Laila Furniturewalla herself. The song became a generation's anthem. She pridefully recalls how her father predicted its success and how the original version remains unmatched in its emotional impact and artistry.ART SHOW“UNTAMED HEART “ is a celebration of raw emotion.”Born in the quiet storm of the COVID-19 crisis, these works respond to the fragility of life — interweaving survival, loss, and resilience.Ganesh appears not as an idol, but as an evolving force , a symbol of Shakti through Gauri, the feminine energy within.This exhibition marks a breaking free — from boundaries, from expectations and expresses how I feel about life, and the soul of things.We look forward to having you with us at Gallery Art & Soul - Worli, Mumbai from 16th -22nd April.Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free, or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode. You will also be eligible for other extras, such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction, and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora MUSICAL CREDITS:Inspired by Laila Furniturewalla and written by Feroz KhanGUEST RESOURCES:Laila Khan - WebsiteLaila Khan Art - InstagramHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIO:An Artist since childhood, Laila Khan Furniturewalla has trained in fine art from the Slade School of Fine Art & the Central Saint Martins School of Fine Art in London, UK. She has held numerous shows & her artworks are held in many esteemed private collections. Her work has been included in auctions and fundraisers & she has donated her work to many charitable causes in India & Internationally. She is also the creative head of Furniturewalla, one of India's largest & most renowned furniture & decor brands.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome everyone! Today, I am joined by guest Brian Gotta, a talented author and entrepreneur based in San Diego. Brian has written four youth sports novels and has recently ventured into adult fiction with his touching new book, Him, a story about a dog that will capture the hearts of all dog lovers. In this episode, we'll dive into Brian's journey as an author, the inspiration behind Him, and what it's like to navigate the world of self-publishing and marketing. At the conclusion of the episode, you'll hear an excerpt from Him, following a dog who is determined to reunite with his former owner but is faced with an obstacle they didn't expect.IN THIS EPISODE:(00:00) Teaser and opening(01:50) Brian shares his writing journey and talks about his first book, Congratulations, You're a Millionaire(04:20) How Brian began writing the non-fiction genre and then moved into writing fiction inspired by sports books he read in his youth (06:40) Brian discusses self-publishing and the rebranding opportunities on Amazon(10:31) Brian shares the inspiration behind Him[14:23 Brian reads an excerpt from his newest book, HimKEY TAKEAWAYS:Brian Gotta started his writing career with nonfiction, documenting sales techniques, which led to his first published book, Congratulations, You're a Millionaire. His transition to fiction began with middle-grade sports novels, inspired by his children's interests and the need for updated, modern storytelling.Whether traditionally published or self-published, authors must actively market their books. Brian learned that even with a publisher, the responsibility of promotion largely falls on the author. This realization led him to self-publish his youth sports novels and rebrand and re-release them for new audiences.As a natural entrepreneur, Brian approaches writing as a business, leveraging his sales and marketing background to promote his books. His experience highlights the importance of perseverance in the publishing world, from rebranding older works to embracing new platforms like Amazon KDP.Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode. You will also be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora Fiction Credits:Written by Brian GottaRead by Brian Gotta GUEST RESOURCES:Brian Gotta - LinkedInBrian Gotta - Facebook BusinessBrian Gotta - XBrian Gotta - InstagramBrian Gotta - WebsiteBrian Gotta Author Page - AmazonCongratulations, You're a Millionaire - BookHim - BookHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIO:Brian Gotta is an author and entrepreneur who lives in San Diego, CA. After graduating from Indiana University with a B.A. in English Literature, he began a sales and sales management career, which inspired his first book, Congratulations! You're a Millionaire! Raising his four children and coaching them in sports inspired him to write a book on coaching baseball, Winning Secrets, and four youth sports novels. His recently-published novel, Him, is his first work of adult fiction.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

I'm thrilled to introduce the imaginative world of children's author and illustrator Erika Silverman. Through engaging storytelling, Erika explores meaningful themes like self-esteem, perseverance, and inclusivity, helping young readers navigate bullying and self-doubt. We discuss how writing serves as both a creative escape and a powerful mission for her, leading to recognition from The New York Times and a Pulitzer Prize nomination. In this episode, Erika shares her inspiration, the impact of her work, and the heartfelt message behind Leave Your Mark on the World—a charming story about a washable marker determined to become permanent by making a difference. IN THIS EPISODE:(00:00) Teaser(02:04) Erika shares why she writes children's fiction, her recognition by The New York Times, and a Pulitzer Prize nomination.(04:25) Erika writes about a range of topics kids may be struggling with(07:10) Writing is an escape for Erika from her day job(08:57) Erika explains where she gets her inspiration and tells about the book she will read(12:06) Erika's books are at Amazon, Walmart, Barnes and Noble and online stores (12:43) Erika shares the premise of her work Leave Your Mark on The World KEY TAKEAWAYS:Inspired by a deep desire to uplift young minds, these stories explore self-esteem, perseverance, and overcoming obstacles. They address real-world issues like bullying, self-doubt, and inclusivity in a way that resonates with children, transforming personal passion into a meaningful creative outlet.These books cover various inspirational topics, including overcoming self-doubt, turning challenges into opportunities, and navigating issues like bullying, discrimination, and self-esteem.Encouraging Young Readers – Inspired by the struggles of young readers who find books challenging, these stories are designed to engage children while reinforcing positive messages and a love for reading.Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode. You will also be eligible to receive other extras, such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora Fiction Credits:Written by Erika SilvermanRead by Erika SilvermanGUEST RESOURCES:Erika Silverman - WebsiteErika Silverman - FacebookHow To Be Human - BookHow To Become a Super Hero -BookLemonade - BookRaining Lemons - BookEnzos Treasure Hunt - BookHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIO:I'm a wife, mother, estate planning attorney, author, and illustrator who wears many hats. With 12—soon to be 14—published children's books, I combine my love for writing, art, and design to inspire young minds. My greatest inspiration comes from my two children, and I also design empowering clothes and accessories for kids. Resting for me is working because I love what I do. I believe in making a difference—otherwise, why are we here? I was honored when The New York Times featured my first book, How to Become a Superhero: Unlock Your Superpowers, and I haven't stopped writing since!Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hi everyone! I'm thrilled to welcome multi-award-winning children's book author Renée Greene Murphy to the show this week. Renée is the author of Your Heart's Voice,  one of the first children's picture books on intuition, which she lovingly dedicated to her younger brother, who tragically passed away in 2022. In this heartfelt episode, Renée shares the inspiration behind her book, how grief shaped its development and the spiritual symbolism woven throughout its pages. We'll also hear an excerpt from this beautifully written story designed to help children embrace self-awareness and intuition. Don't miss this inspiring conversation! IN THIS EPISODE:[1:48] Renée shares why she wrote the book[4:23] There were no accessible resources for children on the topic of intuition[7:01] How the book was restructured after the death of her brother[10:13] Where you can get your copy of Your Heart's Voice, [11:54] We hear an excerpt from Your Heart's Voice KEY TAKEAWAYS:In 2018, a New York State-certified school counselor and mother of two noticed a lack of children's picture books on intuition, a vital life tool. With three master's degrees and 10 years of experience, she was inspired to fill this gap.The tragic loss of Renée's younger brother in 2022 deeply impacted her, with writing serving as a therapeutic outlet to cope with the shock, anger, and depression of grief.The book incorporates numerous spiritual elements, including angel numbers, symbolic animals like a cardinal, dragonfly, and turtle, and settings like the beach, where the author feels most connected to her intuition—all reflecting themes of guidance, resilience, and celebrating her brother.Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora Reenita is also on Patreon! Check out her link here:https://www.patreon.com/ReenitaFiction Credits:Written by: Renée Greene Murphy Read by: Renée Greene MurphyGUEST RESOURCES:Renée Greene Murphy - WebsiteRenée Greene Murphy - LinkedInRenée Greene Murphy - Business FacebookRenée Greene Murphy - InstagramRenée Greene Murphy - FacebookYour Heart's Voice - AudioYour Heart's Voice - Barnes and NobleHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIOGRAPHY: Renée Greene MurphyMulti-award-winning children's book, author of Your Heart's Voice, one of the first children's picture books on intuition. Your Heart's Voice is dedicated to my little brother, who tragically passed in a car accident in 2022. Writing was therapeutic for me during the initial stages of grief, so I ended up dedicating my book to him and adding him as a main character. Jade learns three life lessons throughout the story, and by listening to our heart's voice, she makes the right choice and feels good about herself. Robert, my brother in the story, teaches her that her heart voice is indeed her intuition. Your heart voice is an excellent supplemental tool in any classroom for students ages five and up to help increase self-awareness, self-esteem, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to season 6 of the True Fiction Project Podcast! I'm thrilled to start this season off with my dear friend Rachana Devidayal. Rachana is a graphic design artist with a profound connection to her craft and the stories she tells through her work. In this episode, she opens up about her journey—why she chose a path different from her mother's, how her struggles are reflected in her art and the barriers she's had to overcome along the way. We also dive into the deep inspiration she draws from the sacred Narmada River, the rituals of Maheshwar, and her ongoing artistic projects. Join us for an insightful conversation about creativity, resilience, and the interplay between art and spirituality.IN THIS EPISODE:[2:01] Rachana shares her background as a graphic design artist and why she felt she needed to follow a different path than her mother[6:49] How her struggles are reflected in her work[13:08] Rachana describes the dams she erects in her heart[15:43] Rachana describes this huge puja, this huge religious ceremony[17:13] Rachana describes a ritual in the town called Maheshwar and her last project, which is still a work in progress[19:28] The inspiration behind Rachana's focus on the riverKEY TAKEAWAYS:Flowing uniquely east to west, the Narmada River is revered as one of India's most sacred, believed to cleanse sins with a mere glance. Its deep spiritual significance inspires artistic exploration, with layered mediums reflecting the river's essence and timeless story.The Narmada River exudes unstoppable feminine energy, defying control despite controversies and environmental impacts. A holy man's prediction of her resistance was affirmed by early dam failures, symbolizing her enduring vitality and inspiring awe and resilience.Artists often face self-imposed barriers, but awareness enables reinvention and progress. Each success breaks old limitations, though new challenges arise, reflecting growth, persistence, and artistic fulfillment.Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora Reenita is also on Patreon! Check out her link here:https://www.patreon.com/ReenitaGUEST RESOURCES:Rachana Devidayal - WebsiteRachana Devidayal Design - LinkedInRachana Devidayal - Facebook Rachana Devidayal - InstagramHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIOGRAPHY: Rachana DevidayalI completed my education at the Cathedral School, Bombay, and earned honors in Graphic Design from the Rhode Island School of Design in 1994. With a passion for print media, I've worked on diverse projects for publishing houses, museums, and private clients. I taught art to ISDI School of Design & Innovation students and co-founded Flying Tricycle Workshops in 2016, curating creative programs for children. Reconnecting with fine arts during the pandemic led to my 2023 solo exhibition, Palash & Baadal, inspired by the light and architecture of Mandu. My paper and watercolor works blend structured design, artistic freedom, and vibrant color.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this revisited episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast, we are looking back at a True Fiction Fan Favorite episode with actor, writer, and stand up comedian Shenuque Tissera.   He shares his story of how he went from a Doctor of Geography to a Stand Up Comedian. He talks about the expectations his parents had of him after immigrating to the US, and his fear of disappointing them as he faked his graduation and dropped out of graduate school. We hear all about the Art of Killin' It and the other projects he is currently working on. The episode ends with the short story titled, Faking the Grade by Michael Kobzik. In this story we follow an aspiring stand up comedian who officially drops out from becoming a Doctor of Geography but still shows up at his graduation to receive a fake diploma to appease his unaware parents.  IN THIS EPISODE: [1:57] What is Shenuque's primary career? [2:50] Shenuque walks through his college education path. [11:38] How did Shenuque fake his graduation? [13:10] Shenuque talks about his start as a stand up comedian. [14:53] We hear about the Art of Killin' It. [16:43] How is Quidditch (quadball) actually played? [22:37] What do Shenuque's parents think of the decisions he has made with his career? [23:50] Shenuque tells us about the Twenty Sided Podcast and his character. [26:36] A short story Faking the Grade by Michael Kobzik. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Follow your heart. Shenuque knew that he wasn't destined for the graduate school path. Once he followed his heart he was able to find a career that he absolutely loves and is wildly successful at.  Quidditch is a real game that was played at the college level! You can be more than one thing in life! You don't have to silo yourself into one career, follow your passions and see where you end up.  Fiction Credits: Excerpt written by: Michael Kobsik  BIO: Shenuque is an actor, writer, and stand-up comedian. He portrays 'Jaylen' in the theatrical production of the Art of Killin' It. He's been featured on HBO Max's Human By Orientation. He is also the voice of Yaksha Rah on the Twenty Sided Podcast. You can find him @shenuque on Instagram or @fakeshenuque on TikTok. Shenuque Tissera Website  The Twenty Sided Podcast  Shenuque Tissera's Twitter  Shenuque Tissera's Instagram  Shenuque Tissera's TikTok  Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to this week's True Fiction Project Podcast! During this special episode, we are mashing up three spooky authors: one a fiction author, another a paranormal writer and the third a writer of witch fantasy from Season 5. These episodes include The Girl in the Toile Wallpaper, The Pied Piper's Prince and Whisper's Most Foul.  All three stories have unique plots and will make your spine tingle. Tune in today for interview snippets and stories, and find the link to the full episodes in the notes below.  IN THIS EPISODE: [1:48] Interview snippet of Mary Savarese sharing how her life experiences inspire her storytelling [3:08] Short story The Girl in the Toile Wallpaper by Mary Savarese [6:28] Interview snippet of Gina Schaeffer sharing how her work as a paranormal investigator has framed her writing [7:25] Short story The Pied Piper's Prince by Gina Schaeffer [11:41] Interview snippet of Emma MacDonald and where she finds her inspiration to write about witches [12:54] Short story Whisper's Most Foul by Emma MacDonald KEY TAKEAWAYS: Mary Savarese builds suspense and emotional depth by immersing readers in a vivid and magical prologue. Gina Schaefer incorporates chilling, tangible elements that encourage readers to reflect and explore further, heightening their emotional investment. Emma McDonald leverages atmospheric storytelling and relatable characters to evoke fear and intrigue, leaving readers captivated by the unfolding mystery. Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora  Reenita is also on Patreon! Check out her link here:https://www.patreon.com/Reenita  FICTION CREDITS: The Girl in the Toile Wallpaper  A short story written and ready by Mary Savarese Mary Savarese - Facebook  Mary Savarese - Instagram The Girl in the Toile Wallpaper - Audiobook The Pied Piper's Prince A short story written and read by Gina Schaeffer The Pied Piper's Prince - Barnes and Noble Gina Schaeffer - Instagram Gina Schaeffer - Facebook Whisper's Most Foul A short story written and read by Emma MacDonald Emma MacDonald - Instagram Emma MacDonald - Website Whisper's Most Foul - Barnes and Noble RESOURCES Season 5 Episode 2 - The Girl in the Toile Wallpaper Season 5 Episode 11 - The Pied Piper's Prince Season 5 Episode 9 - Whisper's Most Foul  HOST RESOURCES Website LinkedIn  Tiktok  Instagram  Facebook  Twitter (X)  Substack  Threads  LinkTree  Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to this revisited episode of the True Fiction Project. Traci DeForge, CEO and Founder of Produce Your Podcast, interviews Lynn Moon (CEO) and Shannon Peason (CFO), Co-Founders of the publisher, Indignor House, about Reenita's new book she launched back in July of 2024! Lynn and Shannon share a bit about the type of authors they typically work with, and how they became connected to Reenita. Lynn shares a lot of the history in India from when this book was written and the impact that it can have on future generations of those who read this book. At the end, you will hear an excerpt from Vermilion Harvest: Playtime at the Bagh written and read by Reenita herself about the forbidden love between an Anglo-Indian school teacher and a Muslim student activist against General Dyer's impending tragedy.  Get your copy of Vermilion Harvest: Playtime at the Bagh here! IN THIS EPISODE: [2:42] How did Lynn and Shannon get started on creating Indignor House?  [4:12] What type of authors were they looking for when they started Indignor House? [5:53] How did they get connected to Reenita?  [12:21] What type of genre do they typically work with? [15:27] What is the history of the time that Vermilion Harvest: Playtime at the Bagh was written about?  [21:35] What is it like to publish a non U.S. historical fiction book in the United States?  [25:06] How did the experience of publishing this book impact Shannon (editor)? [27:01] What are Lynn's expectations for this book?  [30:14] Is there a screenplay version in development?  [31:02] How can people get their hands on the book? [32:21] We hear an excerpt from Vermilion Harvest: Playtime at the Bagh written and read by Reenita Hora.  Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of the podcast and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora KEY TAKEAWAYS: If you are an aspiring author, take your time and wait for the right publishing company and editor. The wait is worth it to ensure that you are able to send your message out to the world in a beautiful way. We need to take care of each other, we need to respect each other. Power is not everything. Disagreement is important, but being able to have a conversation without getting emotional is crucial.  The story Vermilion Harvest: Playtime at the Bagh is a story that everyone needs to get their hands on. It is a tragic historical fiction story, but the lessons show why we must support others to avoid history continuing to repeat itself.   Fiction Credits: Written and read by Reenita Hora RESOURCES: Where to buy Vermilion Harvest: Playtime at the Bagh: Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1953278523 Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/vermilion-harvest-reenita-m-hora/1145699636?ean=9781953278524 Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Reenita-Malhotra-Hora/author/B001KHTMSS Walmart https://www.walmart.com/ip/Vermilion-Harvest-Playtime-at-the-Bagh-Hardcover-9781953278517/5976849351?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0 Thriftbooks https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/vermilion-harvest-playtime-at-the-bagh_reenita-m-hora/53127072/#edition=71488527&idiq=64643525 Booktopia (Australia) https://www.booktopia.com.au/vermilion-harvest-reenita-m-hora/book/9781953278517.html Hatchards (UK) https://www.hatchards.co.uk/book/vermilion-harvest/reenita-m-hora/9781953278524  Indignor House Website   Indignor House Facebook Indignor House Twitter  Indignor House Instagram BIO: Bio for Lynn Moon: CEO & Co-Founder of the publisher, Indignor House Lynn is the award-winning author of the Agency Series that follows a government with unlimited power and money. She has worked for state and federal government agencies and uses her long reaching personal experiences to captivate her audience with realistic stories of political corruption. Her novels have won awards including the Moonbeam Children's Book Award, IPPY award, and the Dante Rossetti Book award. Lynn holds an MPA in Public Administration from Troy State University and an MFA in Literature from Lindenwood University. She's the CEO of Indignor House, working to change the publishing environment one book at a time. Bio for Shannon Pearson: CEO & Co-Founder of the publisher, Indignor House   Shannon comes to Indignor House with a treasure trove of over 10 years of experience in accounting and administrative services. For the last five years, Shannon has worked in the editorial fields of all genres. With her talent, she gives the numbers and letters a refined breath of fresh air. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hi everyone! This week, I am thrilled to introduce Doyle Glass, a former criminal prosecutor, an American historical novelist, and a sculptor who brings us the powerful story of the young men who fought in Vietnam. Doyle's journey is one of passion, perseverance, and the desire to preserve the untold stories of those who served. His book, Swift Sword, is a tribute to the Vietnam War veterans whose real experiences were often overlooked or forgotten. Tune in for an unforgettable conversation about history, healing, and the importance of telling the truth. IN THIS EPISODE: [1:31 Doyle's background is shared, and he discusses the story of Swift Sword [3:24] Doyle gave up his role as prosecutor and his passion for these veterans [6:02] Why weren't these stories documented  [8:17] How did Doyle find the subjects for his book [10:01] Doyle's life experiences at the time of the writing of the first edition [12:40] Doyle shares the backstory of what we are about to hear [18:21] We hear an excerpt from Swift Sword KEY TAKEAWAYS: The Vietnam War left deep pain and division, causing many to avoid documenting veterans' true stories. Unlike WWII, Vietnam was marked by controversy and a desire to forget. As veterans pass, their stories risk being lost, a gap the writer seeks to fill with his books. The writer faced a tough journey creating his book, as many veterans were reluctant to share painful memories. After years of interviews and personal hardships, including caring for his terminally ill wife, he rediscovered the transcripts a decade later and completed the book after two decades. Doyle's book on the Vietnam War appeals to the Americans who fought in the Vietnam War and their families, as well as to lovers of history. Many readers, including the children, grandchildren, and relatives of veterans, seek a deeper understanding of what their loved ones experienced. The book serves as a way to preserve and uncover the "real truths" of those who fought, capturing a legacy that might otherwise be lost.  Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora   Reenita is also on Patreon! Check out her link here:https://www.patreon.com/Reenita  Fiction Credits: Written by Doyle Glass Read by Doyle Glass  GUEST RESOURCES:  Doyle Glass - Website Doyle Glass - Facebook Doyle Glass - Instagram Doyle Glass - LinkedIn Swift Sword Lions of Medina HOST RESOURCES Website LinkedIn  Tiktok  Instagram  Facebook  Twitter (X)  Substack  Threads  LinkTree  BIO: Doyle Glass (born January 22, 1962) is an American historical novelist and sculptor known for his bestselling books Lions of Medina (2007) and Swift Sword (2023), as well as his sculptures of the Texas and Kentucky Medal of Honor Memorials. A former criminal prosecutor, Glass began writing and sculpting after his legal career. Lions of Medina details the sacrifices of Charlie Company Marines in Vietnam, while Swift Sword recounts a harrowing firefight in the Queson Valley. His upcoming book, Unthrottled: The Story of Robert Benoist (2025), will tell the story of a French Grand Prix champion turned British secret agent during WWII. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hi everyone! This week, I am excited to introduce Melody Fowler, a passionate creative who brings a story to us ranging over several decades. The inspiration for this historical fiction novel comes from her husband's grandmother, Lucinda. She died at the age of 97 but left behind a life-long trail of stories. Melody reads an excerpt from her book How We Healed which tells of Lucinda facing the Great Appalachian Storm of 1950 and waiting for her alcoholic husband to come home. Tune in for a story of a powerful woman, ahead of her time.           IN THIS EPISODE: [1:35] How did Melody go from wanting to be a journalist to a full time writer?  [3:46] What does Melody feel is her primary creative skill? [5:16] How did the storyline for How We Healed come to Melody? [8:47] Is this story more like a memoir or a fictional structure with a plot? [9:57] Melory shares the backstory of what she will read today. [10:42] Why was it important to bring Lucinda's story to the reading public? [13:30] We hear an excerpt from How We Healed . KEY TAKEAWAYS: Maintaining authentic vernacular in writing, whether for fiction or nonfiction, is essential. It brings the storyline to life, making it feel more genuine and relatable. Our guest spent hours on end visiting with her husband's grandmother to capture her biographical story and then share it with us taking creative license to create How We Healed . The importance of sharing her husband's grandmother's story lies in the universal themes of relationships, personal growth, and perspective. Her connections with family and friends and the lessons she learned are experiences we can all relate to. Often, we view others through the lens of our own perspective, sometimes missing a more holistic understanding of them. As we mature, we start to recognize that it's not all about us; other viewpoints come into focus, and we see people differently.  Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora   Reenita is also on Patreon! Check out her link here:https://www.patreon.com/Reenita  Fiction Credits: Written by Melody Fowler Read by Melody Fowler  GUEST RESOURCES: Melody Fowler - Website How We Healed - The Book Melody Fowler - LinkedIn Melody Fowler - Facebook Personal Page Melody Fowler - Facebook Business Page Melody Fowler - Twitter Personal Account Melody Fowler - Instagram HOST RESOURCES Website LinkedIn  Tiktok  Instagram  Facebook  Twitter (X)  Substack  Threads  LinkTree  BIO: Melody is from Vancouver, BC, Canada. Three years ago, Melody retired after decades of working for the government. The artist in her was now completely free to pursue her passions. She is a recognized painter and a poet. Her art has been showcased in local galleries. Her first book was Life Lyrics: Love, Sex & Other Deviances, a book of poetry, and her latest work is How We Healed a novel she has co-written with her husband, Arric. She now lives outside Vancouver with her husband, where their backyard, affectionately known as the "Fowler Vineyard," continues to produce amazing mustard, wines, jams and jellies. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week, I am excited to introduce paranormal writer Gina Lynelle Schaefer. The stories she shares throughout the episode are quite fascinating and it is inspiring to learn more about her writing process and how she is inspired by real life events. She shares about her personal contributions and how she pulls them into stories, as well as her experience with capturing ghosts. Gina reads an excerpt from her book Pied Piper's Prince which is inspired by the Candy Man. This portion of the story is when the veil is lifted, and a woman is trying to understand what happened in her home in the past. Tune in if you enjoy spooky, goosebump giving stories!  IN THIS EPISODE: [1:57] Gina shares about her inspiration when writing paranormal fiction.  [4:41] Why are people so fascinated with true crime?  [6:09] What sites has Gina visited for inspiration for her stories? [9:40] What's the difference between paranormal, horror, and mystery?  [12:04] What personal contributions does Gina bring into her stories?  [12:48] How does a paranormal investigator capture ghosts? [14:41] Gina shares about the piece she will read for us, the Pied Piper's Prince. [18:57] We hear an excerpt from the Pied Piper's Prince. KEY TAKEAWAYS: If young readers can see it, feel it, and it's descriptive, they're more likely to buy it, read it, and get hooked on it.  The research that goes into creating non fiction into fiction can be a huge amount of time. Our guest today spends time physically visiting sites, talking with those who were involved, and gathering information to inspire her next story.  It is thought that the obsession with true crime comes from people trying to understand what goes on in the minds of these people and how it's possible.  Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora   Reenita is also on Patreon! Check out her link here:https://www.patreon.com/Reenita  Fiction Credits: Written by Gina Lynelle Schaefer Read by Gina Lynelle Schaefer  GUEST RESOURCES: Gina Schaefer's LinkedIn  Gina Schaefer's Facebook Personal Page  Gina Schaefer's Facebook Business Page  Gina Schaefer's Instagram  Gina Schaefer's Website The Pied Piper's Prince BookHOST RESOURCES Website LinkedIn  Tiktok  Instagram  Facebook  Twitter (X)  Substack  Threads  LinkTree  BIO: Gina Lynelle Schaefer is the author of five books based out of historical fiction and paranormal horror. She has performed paranormal investigations and visited and written about all realms of paranormal and true crime. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to the True Fiction Project! From historical fiction to adult romances, Amy True is a wonderful storyteller. Amy shares the various female protagonists she showcases in her stories, and who she got the inspiration from. She explains how she creates her characters and the process of writing historical fiction. Amy then shares what led her to add adult romance to her list of books. Tune in to hear an excerpt from her newest book Meet Me in Ivy Falls, about a hot mess of a woman who goes on to save a small town.  IN THIS EPISODE: [2:04] Why does Amy go by the last name of Trueblood vs. True? [4:42] Are Amy's female protagonists inspired by real people? [8:05] Why did Amy write historical fiction vs. a history book? [9:25] What made Amy segue into adult romance?  [12:31] How does Amy's relationship with her siblings tie into her stories? [16:09] When is the book available and where can you find Amy? [17:18] Amy reads an excerpt from her newest book, Meet Me in Ivy Falls. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Writing historical fiction is a huge undertaking because not only are you writing a story, but you have to have your facts straight as well, which requires a lot of research. Sometimes as an author, you need to switch up your writing style to allow yourself to clean your slate and get out of a rut. That is what caused our guest to switch from historical fiction to adult romance. Meet Me in Ivy Falls is a sweet small town romance, readers who enjoyed the show Gilmore Girls will love this book!  Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and listen to Bill's second song, “It is What it Is Until It's Not”. You will also be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora   Reenita is also on Patreon! Check out her link here:https://www.patreon.com/Reenita    Fiction Credits: Written by Amy True Read by Amy True  GUEST RESOURCES: Amy True's Website     Amy True's Instagram  HOST RESOURCES Website LinkedIn  Tiktok  Instagram  Facebook  Twitter (X)  Substack  Threads  LinkTree  BIO: After stints working in entertainment and advertising, Amy True turned to chasing her one dream: writing romance. She can often be found in her local writing spot sipping her favorite iced tea (with a touch of lemonade) and putting together playlists for her next books. When she's not daydreaming about her next cinnamon roll hero, she's traveling with her family, reading good books, and plotting her next small-town romance. While she grew up only ten minutes from Disneyland, which inspired her love for storytelling, she now calls Arizona home. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to the Season of the Witch! This week I am joined by Emma MacDonald, a storyteller of witch fantasy. We talk about all things witches from black and white witches, to herbal witches. Emma explains how she uses witchcraft in her life, and how it is different from the outcasted witches of the past. She shares what inspired her to write her novel Whispers Most Foul about a college student who cannot cast spells, but can see ghosts. At the end of the episode, you'll hear an excerpt of her novel, which is when the main character, Rose, is visited by a ghostly vision in the bath. Interested in reading more? Whispers Most Foul is out now! Check it out here.IN THIS EPISODE:[1:46] What is witch fantasy? [2:24] What was Emma doing before she became a witchy author? [3:26] Emma explains the background of witchiness. [5:23] What is Emma's witchy setup?[8:30] What is a white witch vs. a black witch? [9:37] Emma shares what her novel Whispers Most Foul is about and what inspired her to write it. [12:44] We hear an excerpt from Emma's novel Whispers Most Foul.KEY TAKEAWAYS:Witchcraft is varied in so many different places and there are different types of witchcraft. The term white witch and black witch comes from a Wiccan tradition, where white magic was good magic and black magic was bad magic. People like to flirt with the unknown, that mystery. There is something innately human about wanting to reach for those mysterious places.Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora Reenita is also on Patreon! Check out her link here:https://www.patreon.com/ReenitaFiction Credits:Written by Emma MacDonaldRead by Emma MacDonaldGUEST RESOURCES:Emma MacDonald's Twitter Account Emma MacDonald's Instagram Account Emma MacDonald's TikTok Account Whispers Most Foul BookHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIO:Emma MacDonald was born and raised outside of Washington, DC, where she received a B.A in International Relations from American University. When she's not writing, she can be found gardening, brewing potions, or chasing after her small menagerie of pets. Emma loves to write fantasy with a big splash of magic and romance.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hello everyone! This week, on the True Fiction Project, I am joined by screenplay writer and professor of film and media, Candace Egan. Candace shares about how she works on a variety of different genres from horror to comedy pieces. She talks about her latest piece, Second Set which is a twist on getting a second chance to do something you would never expect. Candace describes her writing and revision process and what it looks like to go from draft to final piece. At the end of the show we hear an excerpt from Second Set about a woman who received a tennis scholarship, but after ending up pregnant at a young age, decided to move away. She has since come back home and is getting a second chance at tennis. IN THIS EPISODE:[2:10] What is Candace's focus and what is she currently working on? [6:00] Candace shares about the script that is today's focus of discussion. [7:24] What types of genres does Candace write about? [11:40] Candace talks about her piece Second Set.[15:32] We learn about the relationship between the characters in the Second Set. [19:06] Candace talks about the writing and revision process. [21:02] What made this story really hit the mark with the fellowships and residencies? [23:48] Candace reads an excerpt from Second Set. KEY TAKEAWAYS:Life doesn't end just because you're retired!Write what is actually meaningful and coming to you, the things you are passionate about, don't chase after the trends or genres. Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora Reenita is also on Patreon! Check out her link here:https://www.patreon.com/ReenitaFiction Credits:Written by Candace Egan Read by Candace EganGUEST RESOURCES:Candace Lee Egan | PortfolioCandace Egan's LinkedIn Candace Egan's Facebook HOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIO:Candace Egan is a professor of Film and Media Arts at Fresno State and a screenwriter focused on female-forward stories. She's had a long career as a non-fiction visual storyteller, exploring stories about a breadth of people such as the first Hmong women to go to college, a U.S. Poet Laureate, and competitive wheelchair tennis players. She writes female-driven stories about mature, authentic women who transform into vibrant, adventurous versions of themselves and learn that it's never too late to explore new opportunities. Her comedy pilot “Second Set” about a grandmother becoming a freshman tennis student-athlete, based on Candace's own experience, has won or placed in 16 contests including winning a fellowship at the Stowe Story Labs. When Candace isn't writing she's on the tennis court trying to keep up with spry, athletic 80-year-olds who compete internationally.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

I can't wait for you to meet my guest this week, singer and songwriter, Bill Abernathy. Bill started in the music world at 19, then shifted to work in the corporate world for 40 years and has come back around to music! Many of his songs are based around sci-fi and the political world that we are experiencing today. Tune in to hear his song Save Your Drama for Your Mama and if you are a paid substack subscriber or a patreon member, you can listen to his second hit It is What it Is Until It's Not. If you are up for a challenge, after you listen to both songs, send me a message at reenita.com/contact-us about the sci-fi connections you hear for a chance at a prize! IN THIS EPISODE: [2:09] Bill shares how he navigated the life of the corporate world and the music world.  [6:23] How did Bill find and build his audience?  [8:44] What does Bill think his audience enjoys about his songs? [9:46] Where does Bill advertise his music?  [10:35] What are the different types of songs that Bill releases?  [12:56] Bill shares the story about his song Save Your Drama for Your Mama. [16:13] What is the bonus Bill is offering to our subscription audiences?  [17:50] How can we change things aside from voting in today's world? [19:30] Bill shares a challenge for our listeners to find his science fiction references in his songs Save Your Drama for Your Mama and It is What it is Until It's Not. [22:41] Tune in to hear Save Your Drama for Your Mama.  KEY TAKEAWAYS: It is what it is until it is not. We have the ability to change the things that we don't like. Use your rights and freedom of speech to fight for what you believe. Don't give up on your dream! My guest this week started as a musician, joined the corporate world and came back around to music, it's never too late. Even music can be a type of fiction from non fiction. Bill writes his music based on sci-fi and politics. If you are a sci-fi fan, tune in to hear Bill's challenge to our listeners.   Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and listen to Bill's second song, “It is What it Is Until It's Not”. You will also be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora  Or subscribe to Patreon for exclusive content! https://www.patreon.com/ReenitaFiction Credits: Written by Bill Abernathy Sung by Bill Abernathy  GUEST RESOURCES: Reenita Malhotra Hora - send your challenge answers here! Bill Abernathy's Website  Bill Abernathy's LinkedIn  Bill Abernathy's Personal Facebook  Bill Abernathy's Business Facebook  Bill Abernathy's Twitter  Bill Abernathy's Instagram HOST RESOURCES Website LinkedIn  Tiktok  Instagram  Facebook  Twitter (X)  Substack  Threads  LinkTree  BIO: Bill Abernathy has embarked on an exceptional journey, courageously navigating through the ebbs and flows of his musical and corporate life. Rising from humble beginnings, he has persistently pushed beyond the ordinary, challenging the status quo and dismantling long standing stereotypes. Bill's Latest Project "MORE", released in 2023 has had 3 #1 singles in the Adult Contemporary Charts. The Songs, "Hideaway", Call Their Name, and the title cute "More", have reached hundreds of thousands of listeners on various streaming and video platforms. In 2017, Abernathy's musical passion ignited with the release of his album "Find A Way," indelibly inscribing his unique signature on the vast tapestry of music. His pivotal track, "Goodbye Will Never Come Again," ascended to the zenith of the Roots Music Chart, signaling the inception of a truly extraordinary musical journey. Venturing further, his acclaimed album "Crossing Willow Creek," unveiled the hit "Cry Wolf," among other tracks that captivated international audiences, increasing his global reach. His deeply stirring track, "Who Are You, Who Am I," from his 2021 EP, earned him a place as a finalist for ISSA Song of the Year— an accolade that attests to his ever-evolving artistry. Abernathy's music has permeated the globe, amassing streams from countless devoted listeners. His authentic voice, genuine songwriting, and masterful storytelling have nurtured a long-lasting bond with his audience, carving a niche for him in the hearts of music lovers across the world. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hey everyone! In this episode, I'm excited to introduce two amazing storytellers and writers to the show, Jodie Anders and Eric Rosswood. This week we are discussing their collaboration writing Queer Cheer and why it was so important to them to represent the queer teen community. We discuss identity, book bans, and the difference that teens are making in the queer community. Jodie shares a “News Announcement” from their book Queer Cheer, about two teens who are on a mission to remove a book ban. Tune in for a great episode!  IN THIS EPISODE: [2:02] Eric and Jodie introduce themselves and describe their work.  [3:18] Eric describes how he and Jodie came together on their project Queer Cheer.    [5:37] Why is representing queer teens important?  [8:32] What is causing book bans to be on an all time high? [12:08] Does the uncertainty around being queer and identity change as they get older vs. being a teen?  [16:08] Jodie shares what the excerpt is that she will be reading. [18:08] We hear a fictional piece from the book, Queer Cheer.  KEY TAKEAWAYS: There is nothing wrong with who you are as a person. You are loved, you are valuable, you are important.  By demonstrating differences in race, sexuality, gender identity and sexism, those who are working through their identity can find similarities with others, and realize that they are not alone.  It can be eye opening to look at your identity and how you behave around different types of people, from work to school to spending time with friends, seeing who you show up as can help determine who you truly are.  Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode, to receive the ‘News Announcement' from the book Queer Cheer, referred to in the fiction section of the podcast, and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora   Fiction Credits: Written by Jodie Anders & Eric Rosswood Read by Jodie Anders  GUEST RESOURCES: Jodie Anders' Twitter  Jodie Ander's Website  Jodie Anders' LinkedIn   Jodie Ander's Instagram  Eric Rosswood's Facebook  Eric Rosswood's Instagram   Eric Rosswood's Website  Queer Cheer Book Website  Students Protecting Education HOST RESOURCES Website LinkedIn  Tiktok  Instagram  Facebook  Twitter (X)  Substack  Threads  LinkTree  BIO: Jodie is a multi-talented artist whose work spans the mediums of acting, writing, videography, editing, and graphic design. As a Jewish bisexual creator who struggled as a teen, Jodie focuses on celebrating diversity and promoting youth empowerment. She currently serves as the Publicity and Communications Director for the youth non-profit California Rainbow Girls, where she's spent over two decades mentoring and guiding teens in confidence and leadership skills. She is the co-author of Queer Cheer: Activities, Advice, and Affirmations for LGBTQ+ Teens and the producer of "Let's Talk about Leadership, Service and Sisterhood," a podcast by and for teens. Eric Rosswood is an author and commentator on LGBTQ+ issues including civil rights, parenting, marriage, and politics. He has led panels on LGBTQ+ parenting issues for organizations such as the Family Equality Council and the Modern Family Alliance. His bestselling book, Journey to Same-Sex Parenthood, won numerous awards including the best Parenting/Family/Relationships book in the IAN Book of the Year Awards, the best Parenting book in the Readers' Favorite Book Awards, and the best LGBTQ Non-Fiction book in the International Best Book Awards. His picture book, Strong, won the Stonewall Honor from the American Library Association. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hey everyone! Welcome to this week's episode of the True Fiction Project. Today I'm honored to talk with Sathya Saran and learn her story about rising in the editorial world in India that was typically dominated by men. Sathya shares her experience in journalism and explains how she turned around and brought success to the magazine's Femina India and Me Magazine for the DNA, Daily News and Analysis. Tune in to learn how she flew high, even when her wings were clipped. IN THIS EPISODE: [2:16] Sathya shares how she got started with her career path.  [8:10] What led to hostility that Sathya experienced in journalism?  [9:07] Who is Dr. Mulk Raj Anand and what did meeting with him lead to?  [10:34] What was so important about the magazine Femina?  [11:55] Sathya shares how she turned Femina magazine around.  [18:20] What happened after Sathya left Femina?  [21:43] Sathya shares her journey of writing her first book. [23:13] What was the Me Magazine for the DNA, Daily News and Analysis?  [28:52] Sathya shares what led her to focus full time on her books.  [30:50] Sathya discusses her journey of sharing with others how to write.   KEY TAKEAWAYS: If you love what you do, and do it with confidence and do it with integrity, it will reward you in some way.  Take a chance on yourself! Sathya went outside the box, challenged the norm, and created wild success.  Fly high, even if your wings are clipped! Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora   Fiction Credits: Read by Sathya Saran  GUEST RESOURCES: Sathya Saran's Twitter  Sathya Saran's Instagram  Sathya Saran's LinkedIn  HOST RESOURCES Website LinkedIn  Tiktok  Instagram  Facebook  Twitter (X)  Substack  Threads  LinkTree  BIO: Best known for her long association with Femina, which she edited for 12 years, Sathya Saran is currently Consulting Editor with Penguin Random House India. Sathya Saran is also the author of a diverse variety of books. The Dark Side reflects her love of the short story, while the critically acclaimed biographies, Ten Years with Guru Dutt Abrar Alvi's Journey; Sun Mere Bandhu Re The Musical World of SD Burman and Baat Niklegi toh Phir The Life and Music of Jagjit Singh bear testimony to her love of cinema and music. Sathya has also written the hugely appreciated biography of Pt Hariprasad Chaurasia. Sathya teaches fashion journalism at NIFT Mumbai, Kangra and Srinagar. She has been a stage actor with Veenapani Chawla. Passionate about writing, she conceptualised and curates the first of its kind Writers Conclave titled The Spaces between Words the unfestival sponsored by JSW at Kaladham near Hampi. Sathya has written a tv serial titled Kashmakash on marital problems. Her column in Femina and Me magazine is now continuing to gain new fans as a guest column in Dainik Jagran. She also writes a column for the New Indian Express. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hey everyone! Welcome to this week's True Fiction Project. India's celebrating its 78th Independence Day, and we've got a treat for you. A few years back, Shukla Lal shared her Partition story (which we have linked to below). Today, I'm excited to continue that thread with her niece and my lifelong friend, Miel Sahgal.Miel talks about growing up with her inspiring grandfather, his love for yoga, and how he influenced her essay "Balancing Act." At the end of the episode Miel shares her touching essay which hones into the story of her grandfather and her upbringing. Don't miss it!IN THIS EPISODE:[4:30] Miel shares how and why she wrote the essay Balancing Act. [6:28] Why did Miel start with her grandfather as a starting point?[11:16] What changes or makes things different from where or how or who you descended from to where you grew up in? [14:25] Miel and Reenita share their experiences around ritualistic living. [17:49] Why did Miel's grandfather promote independence with women in the family? [19:31] How did yoga bring Miel further into her culture in a different way?[21:09] What was the connection her grandfather had with her son? [22:48] Did her grandfather's relationship with younger friends impact his long lifespan? [24:20] Why is the essay called Balancing Act?[26:15] Where can you read more of Miel's work? [27:42] We hear the essay Balancing Act by Miel Sahgal.KEY TAKEAWAYS:Yoga, pronounced yog, means to yoke or unite, and wellness comes not just from contortions, but from the integration of mind, body, and spirit; the enduring ancient teachings apply to everyone. Miel's lesson from her grandfather was showing that where you live or what you leave behind is not nearly as important as what you carry inside. Part of the fun of being alive is learning and growing. Spend your time listening to stories of those older and younger than you, learning from your culture and others, and continuing to experience all life has to offer.Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora Fiction Credits:Written and read by Miel SahgalBalancing Act in the Hamilton Arts & LettersRESOURCES:Books by Miel Sahgal S2 EP 4 – India at 75: A special “Partition Story” with Shukla Lal, author of Rano & Phulo EpisodeHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIO:Miel Sahgal writes about nature, education, and contemporary world society. She serves on the Advisory Board of the Sanctuary Nature Foundation, where she was previously Managing Editor of Sanctuary Asia and conducted events for children and educators. Miel was born in India, and has co-authored a children's book on Mumbai as well as a travel book on Maharashtra. She now lives in Southern Ontario, Canada.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to this week's episode of the True Fiction Project! I am honored to have author and poet, Bhakti Mathur join the show. Bhakti is the author of two children's series titled Amma, Take Me and Amma, Tell Me, which were inspired by exploring new places with her children. Aside from writing, Bhakti is also a bibliotherapist, who helps clients explore their emotions and heal through the use of fiction, non fiction and poetry. She explains how she got into the bibliotherapist work and came to be the first in Hong Kong. At the end of the episode, Bhakti shares three different poems with us. The first is about her grandmother's death, the second is about the Ganges on fire, and the last is about a failed relationship. Tune in to learn more about bibliotherapy and hear her amazing poems. IN THIS EPISODE:[3:09] What is a bibliotherapist? [8:12] How did Bhakti get into this field? [10:51] What is the Amma, Take Me series?[12:31] What is the Amma, Tell Me series?[13:48] Do Bibliotherapists exist in other places in the world? [15:42] What is Bhakti going to share with the listeners and why?[17:52] Does Bhakti explore light and death a lot in her work? [20:11] Is Bhakti taking new bibliotherapist clients? [20:40] What is coming next from Bhakti? [23:23] Bhakti reads us her poem called An Indian Summer about the death of her grandmother. [26:30] Bhakti reads her poem called Varanasi about a city of water by the Ganges on fire. [27:52] Bhakti reads her poem The Thornbird about the ending of a relationship. KEY TAKEAWAYS:A bibliotherapist is someone who recommends books to people as a way to heal. They focus on healing by using fiction, nonfiction and poetry to help people connect with their experiences and feelings through a different view. Amma, Take Me and Amma, Tell Me are stories inspired by trips that Bhakti took with her children. They are nonfiction books, inspired by questions that her children asked her while they were out seeing new places. Bhakti utilizes poetry as a form of healing. They provided her space to express and label her emotions. Writing offers an opportunity to put distance between you and the problem or issue that you are struggling with. Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora Fiction Credits:Written and read by Bhakti MathurGUEST RESOURCES:Bhakti Mathur's LinkedIn Bhakti Mathur's Personal Facebook Bhakti Mathur's Business Facebook Bhakti Mathur's Instagram Bookswithbee.netHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIO:Bhakti Mathur is the author of the 'Amma Tell Me' and 'Amma Take Me' series of children's books about Indian mythology and history, with 19 published titles to date. After a long stint as a banker, she now juggles her time between writing, practicing yoga, and with her family. She lives in Hong Kong with her husband, their two children, and two dogs. She holds a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing from the University of Hong Kong and is a freelance journalist with 100 published articles in the South China Morning Post on life, health, and fitness. Bhakti is an ICF credentialled (ACC) executive coach and is Hong Kong's first bibliotherapist. When not writing or running after her boys, Bhakti is happiest curled up with a book in one hand and a hot cup of chai in the other. To learn more about her, visit her at www.bhaktimathur.com, www.reflectwithbhakti.com, and www.bookswithb.net.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to this week's episode of the True Fiction Project! Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of Mary K. Savarese, an "overnight success" who discovered her passion for writing after becoming an empty nester. In this episode, Mary shares how her life experiences have shaped her unique storytelling style, and why she loves to explore different genres and projects. Mary captivates us with her writing journey, from the challenges she faced to the triumphs she achieved. She also treats us to an exclusive reading from her trilogy, The Girl in the Toile Wallpaper. In this excerpt, we meet Dante, a man ensnared in a mysterious world, where an evil figure manipulates scenes he cannot intervene in. Tune in for an episode filled with creativity, perseverance, and the magic of storytelling! IN THIS EPISODE: [2:56] Mary shares about her day to day life.  [4:41] What is an overnight success and what does that mean to Mary? [7:39] How has life experience impacted her writing?  [12:06] What is a spiritual mystery?  [13:44] What is the difference between a series and a trilogy? [18:40] What was the adventure that Mary had the other day?  [22:21] What inspired the excerpt that Mary is going to read to us?  [26:13] We hear an excerpt from The Girl in the Toile Wallpaper written and read by Mary K. Savarese.  KEY TAKEAWAYS: If you have the passion for it and you stick with it, it can happen for you. Not overnight, but if you have the passion and the desire it can happen for you.  Mary utilized the ending of her parenting chapter, becoming an empty nester, to begin writing as a way to deal with the difficult transition.  As an author, you don't need to write like everyone else. Follow your heart, and your creativity to find what lights you up the most.   Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora   Fiction Credits: Written and read by Mary K. Savarese.  GUEST RESOURCES: Mary K. Savarese's LinkedIn  Mary K. Savarese's Facebook Page  Mary K. Savarese's Twitter  Mary K. Savarese's Instagram  Mary K. Savarese's Website HOST RESOURCES Website LinkedIn  Tiktok  Instagram  Facebook  Twitter (X)  Substack  Threads  LinkTree   BIO: Mary K. Savarese is a traditionally published, best-selling, award-winning fiction author and speaker. She is known for her quirky titles. Her debut novel, Tigers Love Bubble Baths & Obsession Perfume (who knew!) a mystery romance with a supernatural twist garnered eight awards. Her recent novel is a fantasy adventure intertwined with romance and has also become an audiobook. The Girl In The Toile Wallpaper, is the first in the StarWriters trilogy. The second novel, The StarWriters Club, will be published this July 15. A finalist in the CIBA 1st place and grand prize category, The Girl In The Toile Wallpaper, won The NYC Big Book Award for Fantasy, the International Royal DragonFly for Fantasy and YA and most recent swept the Fantasy category at the International Cadmus Awards. US Review of Books compared it to A Wrinkle in Time and Dr. Who. Mary K. Savarese was born in Brooklyn, NY, raised her family in New England, and now resides in Florida where she loves to take her readers on wonderful fantasies. Mary appears on iHeartRadio, radio podcasts, Streaming Podcasts, Mindalia TV, Cable, YouTube, local publications and UK Radio. Her novels can be purchased from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, on line & brick and mortar and independent book stores everywhere Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to Season 5 of the True Fiction Project. We are kicking off this episode with something a little different. Traci DeForge, CEO and Founder of Produce Your Podcast, interviews Lynn Moon (CEO) and Shannon Peason (CFO), Co-Founders of the publisher, Indignor House, about the new book they are launching July 15, 2024, written by our very own Reenita Hora! Lynn and Shannon share a bit about the type of authors they typically work with, and how they became connected to Reenita. Lynn shares a lot of the history in India from when this book was written and the impact that it can have on future generations of those who read this book. At the end, you will hear an excerpt from Vermilion Harvest: Playtime at the Bagh written and read by Reenita herself about the forbidden love between an Anglo-Indian school teacher and a Muslim student activist against General Dyer's impending tragedy. IN THIS EPISODE:[2:42] How did Lynn and Shannon get started on creating Indignor House? [4:12] What type of authors were they looking for when they started Indignor House?[5:53] How did they get connected to Reenita? [12:21] What type of genre do they typically work with?[15:27] What is the history of the time that Vermilion Harvest: Playtime at the Bagh was written about? [21:35] What is it like to publish a non U.S. historical fiction book in the United States? [25:06] How did the experience of publishing this book impact Shannon (editor)?[27:01] What are Lynn's expectations for this book? [30:14] Is there a screenplay version in development? [31:02] How can people get their hands on the book?[32:21] We hear an excerpt from Vermilion Harvest: Playtime at the Bagh written and read by Reenita Hora. If you'd like to receive a FREE Chapter 1 of Vermilion Harvest - Playtime at the Bagh or if you are interested in inviting Reenita to connect with you book club (in person or by zoom), please send us a note at https://www.reenita.com/contact.Subscribe to Reenita's Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of the podcast and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahoraFiction Credits:Written and read by Reenita HoraRESOURCES:Where to buy Vermilion Harvest: Playtime at the Bagh:Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1953278523Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/vermilion-harvest-reenita-m-hora/1145699636?ean=9781953278524Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Reenita-Malhotra-Hora/author/B001KHTMSSWalmartThriftbooksBooktopia (Australia)Hatchards (UK)If you'd like to receive a FREE Chapter 1 of Vermilion Harvest - Playtime at the Bagh or if you are interested in inviting Reenita to connect with you book club (in person or by zoom), please send us a not at https://www.reenita.com/contact.)Guest InformationIndignor House Website  Indignor House FacebookIndignor House Twitter Indignor House InstagramGet in touch with Reenita:LinkedInTiktokInstagramFacebookTwitter (X)SubstackThreadsLinkTreeBIO:Bio for Lynn Moon: CEO & Co-Founder of the publisher, Indignor HouseLynn is the award-winning author of the Agency Series that follows a government with unlimited power and money. She has worked for state and federal government agencies and uses her long reaching personal experiences to captivate her audience with realistic stories of political corruption. Her novels have won awards including the Moonbeam Children's Book Award, IPPY award, and the Dante Rossetti Book award. Lynn holds an MPA in Public Administration from Troy State University and an MFA in Literature from Lindenwood University. She's the CEO of Indignor House, working to change the publishing environment one book at a time.Bio for Shannon Pearson: CEO & Co-Founder of the publisher, Indignor House  Shannon comes to Indignor House with a treasure trove of over 10 years of experience in accounting and administrative services. For the last five years, Shannon has worked in the editorial fields of all genres. With her talent, she gives the numbers and letters a refined breath of fresh air.Bio for Reenita HoraReenita, the 'Nora Ephron' of South Asian storytelling, spinning yarns as eclectic as Mumbai's iconic 'Bhel Puri' – a tantalizing concoction of flavors with an occasional bug for that extra crunch! Her stories star a motley crew of characters caught in the whirlwind of imperfect scenarios, all while stubbornly refusing to sell out. Her writing, unapologetically Indian, pulses with the colors and rhythms of her culture, deftly blending humor and authenticity.  LA Weekly spotlighted her unique approach to weaving Indian humor and culture into the American tapestry, celebrating the innovative narrative of Operation Mom. Read the LA Weekly Article here.In her previous life, Reenita was a journalist, editor, and writer for platforms like National Geographic Kids, Disney India, Cartoon Network Asia, the New York Times, CNN, Radio Television Hong Kong, and Bloomberg. Her awards and accolades include the Eric Hoffer Book Award, IndieReader Discovery Award, Santa Barbara International Screenplay Award, Script2Comic, Launchpad, and Emerging Screenwriters awards, and Sundance Institute Development Slate second rounder. No one-trick pony though, she's the brains behind two podcasts: the True Fiction Project (where reality takes a nose dive into the scripted world) and Shadow Realm (a magical portal to riveting narrative fiction). Dive headfirst into her world fantastical tales, and laugh-out-loud moments at http://www.reenita.com. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to this week's True Fiction Project Podcast. During this episode we are highlighting guests from my homeland, India. First you will hear poetry titled Sea Link, My Place and The Kohinoor, Mughal Sequence, written and read by Anand Thakore about life and letting go. Next, you will hear an excerpt from the story Toddy Trails, written by yours truly, about the adventures of a baker who ran out of yeast and must find a replacement. Lastly, you will enjoy an excerpt from My Voice, written and read by Priya Subberwal, which tells of her learning about being adopted. All three are wonderful, don't forget to tune in to the original episodes linked in the show notes.  IN THIS EPISODE:[1:21] Anand Thakore shares about his writing and work. [2:10] We hear the poems Sea Link, My Place and the Kohinoor written and read by Anand.[8:40] Avinash Martin discusses his restaurant Cavatina and how he decided to focus the food on Goan cuisine. [9:56] We hear an excerpt from the story Toddy Tails written by Reenita.[16:17] Priya Subberwal shares about her book My Voice and how she found out she was adopted. [17:05] We hear an excerpt from My Voice by Priya about her adoption. KEY TAKEAWAYS:Priya decided to write about her journey of finding out she was adopted as an adult as a way to find closure after her parents had passed away. Her story is fantastic for those who have been adopted or for people who are considering adoption. Anand feels that poetry really has to embrace the moment and be very short and brief and make its statement in a short space. Fiction Credits:Sea Link, My Place, and The Kohinoor, Mughal Sequence by Anand ThakorePoetry written and read by Anand ThakoreAnand Thakore's Facebook | Anand Thakore's Website | Poetry International Website Toddy TrailsShort story written by Reenita Hora inspired by Avinash Martin's storyChef Avinash Martins' Instagram | Chef Avinash Martins' Facebook My VoiceExcerpt written and read by Priya SubberwalDishas Consulting Website | Priya Subberwal's Instagram | Priya Subberwal's Facebook Priya Subberwal's LinkedIn RESOURCESSeason 4 - Episode 12: The Kohinoor, Mughal SequenceSeason 4 - Episode 6: Toddy Trails Season 4 - Episode 9: Masala Movie Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to this week's True Fiction Project Podcast. During this special episode, we are mashing up two fantasy fiction author interviews and true fiction pieces from season 4! These episodes include Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity and New Rock, New Role. Both stories have unique plots and are sure to make you laugh! Tune in today to hear interview snippets and full story stories from each episode! Find the link to the full episode in the notes below.IN THIS EPISODE:[1:37]  Interview snippet of Daniel Finkel discussing his life on the other side of Hollywood.[3:04] Short story Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity by Daniel Finkel. [13:34] Interview snippet of Richard Sparks discussing how he entered into fantasy writing. [15:42] Short story New Rock, New Role by Richard Sparks.KEY TAKEAWAYS:Sometimes your fun projects that seem crazy can actually turn into something big! You never know what will change your life, one second you could walk out on a stage and be unknown, and the next you could be a star walking off the stage.Fiction Credits:Mr. Taffles Pants of InsanityA short story written and read by: Daniel FinkelDaniel Finkel's Personal Facebook Page | Daniel Finkel's Instagram | Trailer for the Audiobook New Rock, New RoleA short story written and read by: Richard SparksRichard Spark's Website | Richard Spark's Facebook | Richard Spark's Instagram | Buy New Rock New Role Fantasy Novel Today!RESOURCESSeason 4 - Episode 8: Mr. Taffles Pants of InsanitySeason 4 - Episode 5: New Rock, New Role  Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this revisited episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast, actor, writer, and stand up comedian Shenuque Tissera shares his story of how he went from a Doctor of Geography to a Stand Up Comedian. He talks about the expectations his parents had of him after immigrating to the US, and his fear of disappointing them as he faked his graduation and dropped out of graduate school. We hear all about the Art of Killin' It and the other projects he is currently working on. The episode ends with the short story titled, Faking the Grade by Michael Kobzik. In this story we follow an aspiring stand up comedian who officially drops out from becoming a Doctor of Geography but still shows up at his graduation to receive a fake diploma to appease his unaware parents.  IN THIS EPISODE: [1:57] What is Shenuque's primary career? [2:50] Shenuque walks through his college education path. [11:38] How did Shenuque fake his graduation? [13:10] Shenuque talks about his start as a stand up comedian. [14:53] We hear about the Art of Killin' It. [16:43] How is Quidditch (quadball) actually played? [22:37] What do Shenuque's parents think of the decisions he has made with his career? [23:50] Shenuque tells us about the Twenty Sided Podcast and his character. [26:36] A short story Faking the Grade by Michael Kobzik. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Follow your heart. Shenuque knew that he wasn't destined for the graduate school path. Once he followed his heart he was able to find a career that he absolutely loves and is wildly successful at.  Quidditch is a real game that was played at the college level! You can be more than one thing in life! You don't have to silo yourself into one career, follow your passions and see where you end up.  Fiction Credits: Excerpt written by: Michael Kobsik Excerpt narrated by:   BIO: Shenuque is an actor, writer, and stand-up comedian. He portrays 'Jaylen' in the theatrical production of the Art of Killin' It. He's been featured on HBO Max's Human By Orientation. He is also the voice of Yaksha Rah on the Twenty Sided Podcast. You can find him @shenuque on Instagram or @fakeshenuque on TikTok. Shenuque Tissera Website  The Twenty Sided Podcast  Shenuque Tissera's Twitter  Shenuque Tissera's Instagram  Shenuque Tissera's TikTok  Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this revisited episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast, Traci DeForge, Founder and CEO of Produce Your Podcast, is back on the podcast as we talk about Reenita's book, Operation Mom: My Plan to Get My Mother a Life and a Man. Reenita's publisher, Dr. Morissa Schwartz joins the conversation as well. Dr. Schwartz is the Founder and CEO of Dr. Rissy's Writing & Marketing and GenZ Publishing, LLC and was named to Forbes 30 Under 30 list. They talk about current trends in publishing and how Dr. Schwartz is making strides to increase diversity and representation among writers. They discuss the power of strong female characters and cultural representation in modern fiction and later in the episode, Reenita shares a short excerpt from her book, Operation Mom: My Plan to Get My Mother a Life and a Man.    IN THIS EPISODE: [03:55] Dr. Schwartz's journey into publishing from a career in BioSciences [08:52] Operation Mom and GenZ Publishing's partnership and how Operation Mom connects with American young adult audiences [12:58] Representation of strong female characters and diverse cultural backgrounds [20:25] Diversity in publishing and GenZ's commitment to storytelling for young adults [26:10] Future plans and dreams for Operation Mom  [32:51] Book excerpt: Operation Mom: My Plan to Get My Mother a Life and a Man written and read by Reenita Hora  KEY TAKEAWAYS: Podcast listenership for comedy podcasts and narrative fiction podcasts grew exponentially during and since the pandemic. Over 60% of books are still published by men over the age of 45 – and most publishers are white men. GenZ Publishing is making strides to change this statistic by publishing more diverse writers.  Representation and cultural diversity is so important in modern fiction. Not only does Operation Mom give readers a strong female lead, it also represents a cultural experience located outside of the U.S.  Fiction Credits:  An excerpt from Operation Mom - My Plan to Get My Mother a Life and a Man written and read by: Reenita Hora https://www.facebook.com/ReenitaMalhotraHora https://www.linkedin.com/in/reenita/  BIO: Morissa is one of Forbes 30 Under 30 in Media for 2022. Dr. Morissa Schwartz is the Founder and CEO of Dr. Rissy's Writing & Marketing and GenZ Publishing, LLC. Dr.RissysWriting.com is a marketing and writing company ranked #1 in PR and in the top ten in Social Media and SEO for New York and New Jersey on Thumbtack. GenZ Publishing is a publishing company that has produced 15 Amazon bestsellers. Dr. Rissy has been featured on Forbes, MTV, and is a bestselling author herself. She speaks professionally about inspiring others through words and entrepreneurship and was named the “Voice of Generation Z” by Community magazine. Dr. Rissy is a contributor for Entrepreneur magazine. She holds a doctorate in Literature from Drew University and has a Master's in Communications.  Dr. Morissa Schwartz on Facebook  Dr. Morissa Schwartz on LinkedIn Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast. This week we are revisiting an episode that was recorded October 12, 2023 to mark the October 2023 events between Israel and Hamas, marking the most significant escalation of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict in several decades.  With the heaviness in the world still today and the events playing out in Israel and the Gaza strip, I introduce a story brought to audiences through playwright, poet and screenwriter, Simone Yehuda. Simone discusses her screenplay, Jerusalem Road, which has wild synchronicity between the storyline and what is happening between the Israelis and Palestinians right now. Simone talks about why it is so important to release her screenplay right now. She shares the history of both the Israelis and Palestinians feeling that home is the same place, and the barriers that are at stake. We then hear a scene from Simone's screenplay, Jerusalem Road. The scene compares and contrasts the years of suffering the two character groups, Palestinians and Jews, have faced and how both groups were forced into exile.  IN THIS EPISODE: [2:47] Simone discusses her background and where her story Jerusalem Road came from. [5:01] Is it true that all of her screenplays focus on the reconciliation of opposites divided by major barriers where survival and identities are at stake? Why did she choose this path?  [6:33] Why is Jerusalem Road so important and why release it right now with the events happening in the world? [9:02] Who are some of the characters and what is the context of the characters? [12:26] What is the history of both Israelis and Palestinians feeling that home is the same place? [15:24] Has the significance of the screenplay expanded given what is happening this week?  [16:36] Can we bring about change through storytelling? [17:52] Will Simone's screenplay go beyond a screenplay into something more? [22:00 A scene from the screenplay, Jerusalem Road, written by Simone Yehuda. KEY TAKEAWAYS: We're all a human family. We have to try to put an end to the inhumane treatment that is happening. If we keep defending “our own” and not stepping out to right against the things that are going wrong in the world then they will continue to happen.  If we can't talk to each other and listen to each other then disaster will follow. Each person's story is valuable and a way to get to know each other's lives, cultures, and history. Take the time to listen to stories as much as you tell them.  There is so much loss happening right now, so much inhumane activity happening all across the world with racism, ageism, prejudice behavior. Take the time in your day to spread kindness and empathy. Do what you can to make the world a better place.  Fiction Credits: Excerpt written by: Simone Yehuda  BIO: Simone Naomi Yehuda was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts to a German Jewish Holocaust survivor and French Catholic mother whose own mother was a leader of the French Resistance. Writing became her cure for massive psychic trauma. She began as a published poet (two books: THAW and LIFTING WATER) and multi-produced playwright (including a play, WILLING, Off Broadway). While in New York, she played the flute with the New York Symphony and was a member of the Mass Transit Dance Company. Simone began writing screenplays full-time ten years ago hoping to reach a wider audience. She now writes feature screenplays that include JERUSALEM ROAD, THE NEW EVE, LOVE AND HOMICIDE, THE THIRD MOTHER, THE SIG OF A FREE MAN and  MATADORA! Her scripts focus on the reconciliation of opposites divided by insurmountable barriers where survival and identity are at stake. Simone's adult twin daughters, physician Valerie Gabriella Press and psychologist/artist Corinna Nicole Press, live in Chicago and San Francisco respectively. She lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan with her historian husband Barry Michael Shapiro. Simone Yehuda's Website  Simone Yehuda's LinkedIn  Simone Yehuda's Facebook  Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In the last episode of season 4 of the True Fiction Project, I am honored to welcome the amazing Anand Thakore. I've known Anand since we were in school together, and it has been incredible to see his journey and learn of his success as an Anglophone Poet and Hindustani Classical Musician. During this episode we reminisce on some of our school experiences and share stories. Then we dive in to learn what Anand is up to now, while he shares his latest projects. We hear an excerpt of music and a poem from Deepankar Khiwani, titled Cathedral. Anand shares his experience working with Deepankar and how their work together inspired him to start writing poetry again. The episode goes on to include three original pieces by Anand Thakore titled Sea Link, My Place and Mughal Sequence. Tune in for this entertaining episode!  IN THIS EPISODE: [2:28] Anand shares about his journey with Sanskrit.  [4:03] What was Anand's journey with music and poetry?  [9:49] What is the style of contemporary Indian writing?  [10:50] Anand shares his story about the creation of the Mughal Sequence.  [13:50] What is the backstory behind some of his latest pieces? [16:30] How do poets utilize characters in their poetry?  [18:42] Anand talks about the work he's done with Deepankar Khivani.  [21:23] Anand shares the song and poem Cathedral by Deepankar Khivani.  [22:51] We hear the poem Sea Link, by Anand Thakore.  [25:09] We hear the poem My Place, by Anand Thakore [26:24] Why was Anand feeling like a sock puppet?  [29:01] Anand shares more about the poem Mughal Sequence and then we hear an excerpt from it. KEY TAKEAWAYS: [12:51] Anand wants the American audience to understand that they are a trans culture, multicultural, multilingual people. Their themes are Indian, their language is English, their music can be Indian, they can also experience Western music in great depth. [14:49] Anand feels that poetry really has to embrace the moment and be very short and brief and make its statement in a short space.  [16:32] Sometimes poets reveal themselves when they are pretending to be someone else.    Fiction Credits:  Poems below written and narrated by: Anand ThakoreSea Link My PlaceMughal SequenceCathedral Poem: Written by Deepankar Khiwani and narrated by Anand Thakore The Cathedral & John Connon School Anand's song at end of episode: Pt. Anand Thakore - Kabir Bhajan-Kuan thagva nagariya lutal ho (Juhu Hamara Festival Kaifi Azmi Park 2019)Anand's other works and information:De Kooning's Smile: Collected PoemsIn Praise of BoneElephant BathingSeven Deaths and Four ScrollsSelected Poems-1992-2012youtube interview and reading at book launchAnand Thakore introduces you to 'In Praise of Bone' ( video)_THE-KOH-I-NOOR, Poetry International , Anand ThakoreBIO: Born in Mumbai in 1971, Anand Thakore grew up in India and in the United Kingdom. He has spent most of his life in Mumbai. His published collections of poetry include In Praise of Bone (2023), Waking In December (2001), Elephant Bathing (2012), Mughal Sequence (2012), and Seven Deaths and Four Scrolls (2017). A Hindustani classical vocalist by training, he has devoted much of his life to the study, performance, composition and teaching of Hindustani vocal music. He received musical instruction for many years from Ustad Aslam Khan, Pandit Baban Haldankar and Pandit Satyasheel Deshpande. He is the founder of Harbour Line, a publishing collective, and of Kshitij, an interactive forum for musicians. He holds an MA in English Literature and is the recipient of grants from The Ministry of Human Resource Development and The Charles Wallace India Trust. He lives in Mumbai and divides his time between writing, performances, and teaching music. His fourth collection of verse, entitled Seven Deaths and Four Scrolls, was recently shortlisted for The Jayadeva National Poetry Award. Anand Thakore's Facebook  Anand Thakore's Website  Poetry International Website  Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Music is a way for everyone to connect, no matter where they come from or what their beliefs are. Today's guest Pablo Sáinz-Villegas is on the True Fiction Project Podcast to talk about why music and Spanish guitar is the perfect vehicle for storytelling. He discusses the difference between the guitar and Spanish guitar, and how even though they all may have the same six strings, and the same tuning, they all offer something different. He shares his stories of working with other musicians and how storytelling comes out of each piece, whether working alone or collaborating with others. Tune in and close your eyes to enjoy the piece Recuerdos de la Alhambra (Memories of Alhambra in English) by the Spanish composer Franciso Tarrega at the end of the episode.  IN THIS EPISODE: [2:45] What does Pablo mean by the statement “music and Spanish guitar is the perfect vehicle for storytelling?” [5:25] Is there a difference between a guitar and a Spanish guitar? [7:26] Does Pablo always have the opportunity to explore storytelling even when collaborating and playing with other artists? [10:05] How is Pablo providing children with the opportunity to explore the magic of music? [13:07] Pablo gives an example of what he means by storytelling through music.  [16:00] Close your eyes and enjoy hearing the piece Recuerdos de la Alhambra by the Spanish composer Franciso Tarrega.  [19:17] Enjoy another piece played by Pablo titled Asturias (Leyenda) KEY TAKEAWAYS: [3:25] Music is an experience that we cannot touch, we cannot see, but we feel, and those are the experiences in life that are most transcendental, most profound to us.  [5:25] While all guitars have six strings and the same tuning, each instrument is related to a different kind of music because they have different features.  [15:07] Music is a way for people to come together and share stories, share about life, and connect on a deep level that connects to our hearts.   Fiction Credits: First song: Recuerdos de la Alhambra by the Spanish composer Franciso Tarrega Second song: Asturias (Leyenda) - Isaac Albéniz. Pablo Sainz-Villegas. LIVE at Teatro Mayor, Colombia https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EowSRVAp8rM  BIO: Sainz-Villegas is the "global ambassador of the Spanish guitar" (Billboard Magazine), a star who has brought classical music to millions of people from the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium to a floating stage on the Amazon River or Carnegie Hall in New York. He has been the first guitarist in 38 years to perform at the Philharmonie with the Berlin Philharmonic under Kirill Petrenko. In addition, he has collaborated with artists such as John Williams, Yo-Yo Ma and played for world leaders as the Dalai Lama. Thanks to his charity work Pablo Sainz-Villegas has also been able to bring access to classical music to tens of thousands of children in Spain, Mexico and the United States. Pablo Sainz Villegas' Website  Pablo Saniz Villegas' Personal Facebook  Pablo Saniz Villegas' Twitter  Pablo Saniz Villegas' Instagram  Our Sponsors:* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

After experiencing a tragic bicycle accident, Mark Berridge spent a year getting his health back. He then decided to write a story to inspire others to keep pushing a little bit further, because they are stronger than they think. This week on the True Fiction Project, Mark Berridge joins Reenita to talk about his accident, and what led him to write his nonfiction book, A Fraction Stronger. Mark discusses future work that he hopes to accomplish, shifting from a nonfiction author to a fiction author, and hopefully one day to playwriting. We then hear an excerpt from the short story, Wondrous Experiences, where a man takes a trip and allows himself to experience it from a new perspective, seeing how the world is truly vibrant and full of possibility. IN THIS EPISODE:[2:20] Mark talks about winning an award for his nonfiction book.[3:26] What is A Fraction Stronger about?[5:13] Mark discusses his physical therapist that was instrumental in his journey to be able to walk again[9:03] Does Mark hope to write more books?[15:57] Mark shares where people can learn more about him. [17:32] Mark shares an excerpt from the short story, Wondrous Experiences.KEY TAKEAWAYS:[4:43] We are all a fraction stronger than we realize, and if we find that inner strength and channel it and embrace the support around us, then we can achieve almost anything. [14:58] In a world where we are so interconnected in a way because of technology, there's still nothing quite like going somewhere and really making connections and finding your tribe, or finding something that changes your life.[24:26] If you immerse yourself in the world's range of potential experiences, you can feel truly alive. Fiction Credits:Story written by: Mark BerridgeStory narrated by: Mark BerridgeBIO:Mark Berridge has broad experience in negotiation, marketing, strategy and transformation. His most prominent corporate role was the Chief Negotiator for Rio Tinto Iron Ore from 2012 to 2015 where he led the pricing strategy for revenue worth USD20 billion.Mark always enjoyed finding high value in complex situations. In March 2019 he became his own subject matter when a bicycle crash changed his life forever. Mark fractured 2 vertebrae and heard the devastating words spinal cord injury. He spent 7 weeks in hospital and 9 months in full time rehabilitation regaining the ability to walk. He will strive to maintain and improve his mobility all his remaining life.Mark now writes and speaks about the impacts of disruption and how we can fight our way forward from almost any situation. His inspirational award-winning book A Fraction Stronger was released in the USA September 2022.A Fraction Stronger BookMark Berridge's LinkedIn Mark Berridge's Personal Facebook Page Mark Berridge's Business Facebook Page Mark Berridge's Instagram Page Mark Berridge's Website Our Sponsors:* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Learning about her adoption at age 21 was quite impactful for Priya Subberwal, along with the lack of conversation that her adoptive parents had with her afterwards regarding her biological family. Today, I am honored to have Priya join the True Fiction Project, she is a long time friend of mine, and is a wonderful storyteller. We start the episode discussing her business, Disha Limited, where she helps people set their homes up for the best energy through Feng Shui work. She talks about how to utilize the evergreen elements of Feng Shui as well as what to prioritize for 2024. We then get to hear the story of how Priya found out she was adopted, and what that was like to find out as an adult. Priya reads an excerpt from her story, Masala Movie, in the book, My Voice about what she uncovered through the process of trying to find her biological parents and how she brought closure to herself. IN THIS EPISODE:[2:30] Priya explains what her business, Disha Limited, is. [5:10] How does it work if your home has bad energy?[6:10] What does Priya mean about good Feng Shui in Hong Kong and San Francisco?[7:50] How does Priya work with people who are on more flat land who don't have natural Feng Shui?[8:37] How does Feng Shui change across the years?[9:10] What does the year of the wood dragon mean for Feng Shui?[10:52] Priya describes her short story, Masala Movie, in the book, My Voice.[20:05] Priya shares an excerpt from her story, Masala Movie, in the book, My Voice, when she learned about her adoption. KEY TAKEAWAYS:[6:13] Feng Shui is all about the wind and water, mountains play a very important role because they work as the antennas, it's where the energy is stacked from the planets and then through wind it comes down and settles at the base of the water. [9:37] For 2024, the year of the dragon, the best ways to benefit from Feng Shui are to utilize the Southwest of your home and the East. The Southwest is for happiness, advancement, promotion, and happy events. The East is for networking, finding leads, any kind of business work that is done in the home.[18:47] Priya decided to write about her journey of finding out she was adopted as an adult as a way to find closure after her parents had passed away. Her story is fantastic for those who have been adopted or for people who are considering adoption. Fiction Credits:Story written by: Priya SubberwalStory narrated by: Priya SubberwalBIO:Priya Subberwal is a qualified Classical Feng Shui practitioner. A trained interior designer, her interest in Chinese Metaphysics was sparked by a chance look through at a coffee table book on the subject in 2000. After extensive reading on the subject, she formally started studying in 2007 and applying it to her daily life. Friends and family too gained from her knowledge and fascination. Priya aims to bring focus and stability to the lives of others. In 2016 she formed the company 'Disha' which comes from the Sanskrit word ‘Dishadhara' meaning direction - something that she strives to give her clients.Priya is a yoga enthusiast and an avid reader. She lives in Hong Kong with her banker husband and a dog. She is a mother of two adult daughters, who love giving her unsolicited fashion and make-up advice. Interestingly, she previously co-owned a cricket team “Kowloon Cantons” in Hong Kong and has co- authored an Amazon bestseller novel #my voice -A collective memoir by women of substance.Dishas Consulting Website Priya Subberwal's Instagram Priya Subberwal's Facebook Priya Subberwal's LinkedIn My Voice BookOur Sponsors:* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

What would it be like to experience a 26 mile dinner party? Today, on the True Fiction Project, I am joined by author and screenwriter, Daniel Finkel. Daniel shares with us his story Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity, how it came about, and the adventure he has taken to write this story and get it out to the public. He talks about other screenplays he has written and what his next steps are for this adventurous story. Daniel discusses what it was like growing up in L.A. and Hollywood and how his experience may have differed from others. At the end of the show, we hear a chapter titled The Dinner Party from Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity where the characters explore through a 26 mile long underground dinner party. Tune in to hear more of this insane story!IN THIS EPISODE:[1:55] Daniel tells us about himself and how he is a Hollywood guy in the most non Hollywood of ways. [3:39] What is Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity and how did it come about?  [6:07] Why didn't the screenplay end up being made into a movie as planned?[7:50] What screenplay did Daniel write that was made into a movie? [8:50] What is the true life inspiration to Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity? [12:38] What is the book wrap tour?[14:39] What are the next steps for the story? [16:28] Where can listeners find out more about Daniel's work and events?[17:24] Daniel explains what his favorite part of the book is. [19:45] We hear a chapter titled The Dinner Party from Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity by Daniel Finkel about navigating a 26 mile underground dinner party. KEY TAKEAWAYS:[9:03] Changing one thing about yourself can change the perception that others have of you. [15:39] Never stop dreaming, your dreams can come true![19:50] If you ever get a chance to go for a 26.2188 mile dinner party, you are in for quite an adventure! Grab Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity to see what I mean! Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com/Fiction Credits:Story written by: Daniel FinkelStory narrated by: Daniel FinkelBIO:I moved to LA to work in the entertainment industry, where I learned I didn't want to work in the entertainment industry. But I got to read screenplays by writers with big agents that were horrible. So I started to write my own screenplays that were also horrible. And it worked! I started to option and sell them… eventually selling the biggest piece of crap I ever wrote to MGM. But then my brain literally went on strike. I was supposed to write this script with a big time commercial producer and I literally couldn't think of anything. My brain forced me to write only ideas that I was passionate about. So I co-wrote and directed my first feature film Everything Will Happen Before You Die. The cast was amazing and I got to direct major league talent like Academy Award Nominee John Hawkes and Marc Boone Junior (Sons of Anarchy). It was a dream come true.However, there's a big missing part of this story… MUSIC. It all started when my roommate asked me to be his vocal sidekick in this rave rock psychedelic lounge funk band called The Serotonins. The idea was I would be a cow and he would be the farmer. Well, he never dressed as a farmer, thus The Mad Cow was born. I became a bit of a counter-culture hero in the Burningman scene and played to packed clubs for years. And TODAY… I'm beyond excited to have published my award winning debut comedy/satire/sci-fi novel MR. TAFFLE'S PANTS OF INSANITY. It's an incredible feeling to have written my first book but even more of an incredible feeling to know that I'll be writing them for the rest of my life. And now we just released the audiobook which I couldn't be more excited about how it turned out. Oh and yes… the MUSIC. A couple of pals and I wrote an EP of songs based on the novel. I will be performing this at bookstores and weird stages all over North America (to start.)Daniel Finkel's Personal Facebook PageDaniel Finkel's InstagramTrailer for the Audiobook Our Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Raised as an evangelical Christian, Bethel Swift started her dating journey late in life, after realizing that God was not going to drop the right guy in her lap. Throughout her three part book, Conversations with Good Men, Bethel shares poems of her experience as a daughter and then about her dating life. In this episode, you will hear what propelled Bethel to turn her personal experiences into a story, and what she found along the way. Bethel then reads two of her poems, the first called The Artist Takes Herself on a Date, which represents her journey of becoming a strong version of herself and the lessons she learned. The second poem, Potpourri Rain, is about her experience with sexual assault from someone close to her, which sent a chill down my spine. Tune in to learn more about Bethel's dating journeyTrigger Warning: Sexual AssaultIN THIS EPISODE:[1:57] Bethel shares what her book Conversations with Good Men is about. [4:02] What propelled Bethel to turn her own personal experience with dating into a story?[5:40] What did she find in her explorations?[9:35] Why did Bethel include conversations with her father in a book about dating? [12:44] Bethel shares about the pieces she will be reading and where the stories came from. [13:34] We hear Bethel's first poem The Artist Takes Herself on a Date. [16:50] Bethel shares her second poem Potpourri Rain. (Trigger Warning - Sexual Assault) KEY TAKEAWAYS:[2:59] In order to find the love of your life, you have to actually go out on dates and spend time with people to find out what your deal breakers are and what things are really important to you. [7:50] We cannot expect our lovers to be everything for us, it puts unrealistic and high pressure expectations on relationships.[16:08] Women will sometimes behave unexpectedly after an assault, like still being friends with the person or still trying to please that person. It can take days, months, years sometimes before women realize that the person did them wrong and that they don't have to carry the blame. Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com/Fiction Credits:Poems written by: Bethel SwiftPoems narrated by: Bethel SwiftBIO:Bethel Swift is a San Diego based artist, poet, indie publisher, workshop instructor, professional home organizer, and the author of Conversations with Good Men (2020, Swift & Sparrow Press). Bethel's poetry has been published in Armenian Poetry Project, Haiku Journal, San Diego Poetry Annual, and Expressions from Englewood as well as exhibited at Columbia College Chicago. In 2017, Bethel was the recipient of an AWP Writer to Writer Mentorship with poet Sandy Coomer (Available Light). Prior to that, she studied poetry under Kristina Marie Darling (Dark Horse) and Larry Sawyer (Vertigo Diary) at the Chicago School of Poetics and with Martha Vertreace-Doody (Glacier Fire) at Kennedy-King College. Bethel earned her degree in journalism from Columbia College Chicago (in 2007) and her journalistic features, interviews, reviews, and opinion pieces have appeared in multiple print and web publications.Bethel Swift's Website Bethel Swift's Personal Facebook Page Bethel Swift's Business Facebook Page Bethel Swift's Twitter Bethel Swift's Instagram Bethel Swift's Pinterest Bethel Swift's LinkedIn Conversations with Good MenOur Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast. Today we feature Chef Avanish Martins. Avanish discusses how his restaurant, Cavatina, came to be and how he made the decision to focus on Goan cuisine. He discusses what “toddy trappers” are and why their skill is so essential to Goan food. Avinash describes how he tells stories through his cuisine and the beautiful way he ties the culture in by plating his food. We learn how the coconut and tree are used in the Goa Culture, and how Pader Pader Ponk Ponk was used to wake up the town. Toddy Trails the fiction piece from this episode takes us along the journey of a local baker who's yeast has been ruined, risking a critical order he needed to fill. A friend encourages him to use toddy to replace the yeast, and after many attempts he nails down a successful recipe, only to have his rolls of bread stolen. Tune in to hear how the story ends!IN THIS EPISODE:[2:38] Avinash introduces himself and talks about how he grew up.[3:34] How did Avinash's restaurant, Cavatina, come to be?[6:03] What are “toddy tappers” and how does Avinash utilize it in his cooking?[11:28] Why does Feni get a bad rap? [12:50] How does Avinash's cuisine differ from other Goan cuisine that is found in other restaurants? [13:46] What is a Chitari artist and how is their artwork represented on Avinash's table? [18:09] Where did the roots of Goan cuisine originate from? [19:41] How can those of us outside of South Goa and India get to explore and experiment with Avinash's cuisine? [22:31] Is there one particular kind of ingredient that you would say is quintessentially Goan that we don't know about? [24:58] What did Pader Pader Ponk Ponk represent? [28:13] We hear the short story Toddy Tails written by Reenita HoraKEY TAKEAWAYS:[8:35] Toddy is at risk of not being harvested in Goa due to the next generation not wanting to work the dangerous job of harvesting toddy. If there is no toddy, the product doesn't exist, you cannot make it with anything else. [13:19] Avinash has experienced many parts of the world, and has decided that he will feature his Goan cuisine as Local Heart, Global Food. The food is genuine Goan good, with flair from other parts of the world. [22:40] The most important ingredient in Goan cuisine would be coconut. Coconut in all forms is a versatile element in Goan cooking. There is nothing of the coconut that goes to waste including the tree itself. It can be used for rafters of a roof, the leaves make beautiful shade nets, the spikes can be used as brooms, the husk is used to make ropes, and more!Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com/Fiction Credits:Excerpt written by: Reenita HoraExcerpt narrated by using AIBIO:Chef Avinash Martins has got the humble Goan cuisine to an international level with farm to table practices and traditional cooking methods but presented it in a modern flairChef Avinash Martins' Instagram Chef Avinash Martins' Facebook Our Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Richard Sparks has been successful in so much of his work from writing The Schoolmaster, performed by Rowan Atkinson, to aiding an opera singer to launch her career. The one area he couldn't seem to get into was fiction writing, until now that is. On today's episode, I am so excited to have writer and author Richard Sparks on the show to discuss his prior pieces of work as well as his new fantasy novel! Richard shares what it was like to work with John Cleese, Rowan Atkinson, and others. At the end of the episode, we hear a clip from his new fantasy story, New Rock New Role that talks about a man who gets sucked into a video game and is trying to understand how he got there. This is Richard's take on how it would feel to be a character in one of the games that he frequently plays. The clip we hear is from early on in the book and series, and there is more to come! Grab a free audio book chapter and ebook chapter or buy the full novel released December 12 on his website - www.richardsparks.com! IN THIS EPISODE:[1:37] Richard tells us about what he's been doing and the work he's done with John Cleese, Rowan Atkinson and others.[6:38] A clip from The Schoolmaster by Richard Sparks and Rowan Atkinson.[10:14] Richard tells us about his experience in the music industry. [11:58] Richard shares about his new project, a fantasy, and how it was inspired from real life. [19:45] A clip from New Rock New Role read and written by Richard Sparks. KEY TAKEAWAYS:Richard doesn't take credit for launching people off into their careers, he says they are all a collaborative relationship, where both sides are needed to be successful. Comedy is fear and pain and misery and disasters and things going wrong and people falling into puddles and betrayals and miscommunications and what good adventure isn't full of that.Richard struggled to become a fiction writer because he couldn't connect with the content. He has now finally embraced fiction writing now that he can use his own voice.Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com/Fiction and Schoolmaster Credits:Excerpt written by: Richard SparksExcerpt narrated by: Richard SparksSchoolmaster Clip performed by: Rowan AtkinsonSchoolmaster Clio written by Richard SparksBIO:Born in England, and a graduate of Oxford University (Exeter College, where, like both JRR Tolkien and Philip Pullman before him, he read English), Richard started out as a writer of stage plays, comedy revues and TV, for such shows as Not the Nine o'clock News. Rowan Atkinson performed his Schoolmaster sketch in John Cleese's The Secret Policeman's Ball. UK TV credits include The Famous Five, The Flying Kiwi, The Optimist, The Worst of Hollywood, and a lot of script editing. On being hired by Columbia Pictures TV, Richard moved with his family to Los Angeles. His lyrics have been recorded by talents as diverse as Dom de Luise, Eric Idle, Vanessa Williams and Plácido Domingo. He has written libretti for several new operas composed by Lee Holdridge (TV's Beauty and the Beast, et al.), produced by the LA Opera, as well writing new English versions of German and Italian classics. His non-fiction books, Diary of a Mad Poker Player, and its sequel, Getting Lucky, chronicle his adventures in the poker boom of the 2000's. Along the Cherry Lane is his biography of the music producer, Milt Okun. “High Adventure Spiced with Low Comedy,” inspired by his love of online role-playing games, New Rock New Role is the first of four volumes Richard has written so far in the New Rock fantasy series, and is his fiction debut.Richard Spark's Website Richard Spark's FacebookRichard Spark's Instagram Buy New Rock New Role Fantasy Novel Today!Our Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Denise has an incredible skill of turning the truth of WWII into a fiction book that people will both learn the history from while also finding the story engaging and entertaining. An award winning writer, teacher, actress, director and producer, Denise is a wealth of knowledge, and I am so grateful to have her back on the show. She shares why America and the world has such a fascination with spies and then dives into how spies helped lead Japan to their attack on Pearl Harbor, 82 years ago today. Denise discusses why she chose to write fiction vs. nonfiction and how she used her research to create such an engaging story. She then reads an excerpt from her story Storms From a Clear Sky where the Americans realize that they've been assisting a Japanese spy all along.   IN THIS EPISODE:[3:16] Denise shares why she thinks the world has such a fascination with spies, spy networks, and how they operate.[6:20] We hear the story of a Japanese spy prior to WWII.[10:02] What was the spy relationship between the Japanese and Germans against the US?[17:00] Did American spies drop the ball in 1941 to miss the attacks?[19:15] Why did Denise decide to write fiction rather than recreate nonfiction accounts of everything that she has discovered through her research?[22:51] Denise shares a short excerpt from her story Storms From a Clear Sky.KEY TAKEAWAYS:Pre World War II, the Japanese were encouraging anyone to step inside their consulate on American ground and offer up any information. There were actual trained spies or there were just somebody who saw ships or any information on the Americans. They started planning the attack on Pearl Harbor in January of 1941. That is when they got serious about it and they did all sorts of different activities to prepare for that war.Due to the American spies, America knew the date for the attack from Japan, but didn't know the time and place that it would occur (attack of Pearl Harbor 1941.) The task for Tadashi Morimura, a Japanese spy, to gather valuable information was boundless. It was easy to observe the movements of the ships, the submarines, their moorings, and the times of patrols from where he was staying on American land. Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Fiction Credits:Excerpt written by: Denise FrisinoExcerpt narrated by: Denise FrisinoBIO:A Seattle native, Denise Frisino, is an award-winning writer, teacher, actress, director, and producer.Whiskey Cove, her first novel, a fast-paced who done it, centers around Prohibition in the Northwest.Next came Orchids of War and Storms From A Clear Sky, both finalists in numerous national competitions, including 1st place for the Hemingway Book Award for 20th Century Wartime Fiction.When researching for these historical fictions, Denise spent over 10 years interviewing 50 men and women from the WWII era. She weaves the experiences of those she interviewed into her story about Japanese espionage along the West Coast prior to WWII, then follows the same characters throughout the war.She is currently working on the last book in the Orchids Trilogy and the movie script for Whiskey CoveHer blogs and YouTube channel contain some of the WWII veteran interviews and she has just launched a new web www.wwiiinterviews.com.Denise has stood atop 5 mountain peaks over 14,000 feet, lived aboard one of the old Mosquito Fleet boats on Lake Union, and drank scotch with Katharine Hepburn. She enjoys being on the water and loves her rowboat. Denise and her husband continue to enjoy the many facets of the Pacific Northwest.WWII Interviews Website Denise Frisino's Website Denise Frisino's Facebook Denise Frisino's Instagram Storms From a Clear Sky BookOur Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast. Today I am joined by writer, podcaster and CEO of Tulla Productions, Nicole Christie. Nicole is a fabulous storyteller and helps others both in the corporate world and entrepreneurs to master their storytelling skills. She talks about her podcast, Here for Me, which highlights badassery stories from people who have gone through difficult situations and persevered to the other side. Nicole discusses why storytelling is so important, and then walks us through the premise of Relationship with a View. She then reads her short story, Relationship with a View, about a woman who meets a man in the elevator of her apartment complex and they hit it off right away but their relationship takes a sudden turn. Tune in to hear more of her story!IN THIS EPISODE:[2:41] Nicole shares about her podcast all about choosing yourself, and what that means.[4:14] What is Tulla Productions and how does she help brands?[7:19] What does storytelling look like for a notable person that hires Tulla Productions?[9:20] Why is storytelling so important?[11:06] Nicole shares the premise of Relationship with a View.[21:20] A short story, Relationship with a View by Nicole Christie.KEY TAKEAWAYS:Social media highlights all the good things happening in people's lives, but misses an opportunity for genuine connection.Storytelling is what lights up the threads of continuity between humans. The more that our stories are raw, candid and vulnerable, the more genuinely connect with each other.Many people go through hard moments, but they are able to come out on the other side with healing and a fresh outlook. Nicole's podcast showcases guests from all walks of life that share their story.Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Fiction Credits:Excerpt written by: Nicole ChristieExcerpt narrated by: Nicole ChristieBIO:Nicole is a writer, podcaster, and entrepreneur. She's the founder and CEO of Tulla Productions—a storytelling studio that connects leading brands and notable people with their audience through human-centered audio, visual, and print stories—and the creator and host of Here For Me, a podcast about the power of choosing yourself. She has been a storyteller since she could string words together and it's her passion to bring tales of courage, impact, and utter badassery to life!Nicole Christie's Instagram Nicole Christie's Website Here for Me Podcast Nicole Christie's LinkedIn Our Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast. This week we have Taylor Koekkoek on the show, who is the author of the short stories series, Thrillville USA. Taylor talks to us about the inspiration behind the short stories and how pieces of the stories are pulled from his life. He talks about how he included Oregon's opioid crisis into the story and why he felt it was relevant. Then we learn what is next for Taylor as far as future projects he is working on. At the end of the episode, he reads us an excerpt from the first story of the Thrillville USA series, where we follow a character finishing his shift at the amusement park and the scandalous scene he stumbles upon behind the back side of the Scrambler. IN THIS EPISODE:[3:18] What is Thrillville USA?[4:40] Why did Taylor decide to name his book series after Thrillville?[6:29] What was the inspiration behind Thrillville USA?[7:51] How Taylor tackles the subject of Oregon's opioid crisis and is it discussed in all the short stories?[11:12] Taylor tells us about the excerpt he is going to read to us.[13:28] What future works will we see from Taylor?[15:55] An excerpt from the first book of the Thrillville USA series by Taylor Koekkoek KEY TAKEAWAYS:[3:19] Thrillville used to be a little roadside amusement park outside of Oregon that felt like a little bit of a death trap with rides that bucked in ways that didn't seem natural. Many rumors about fatalities and bodily harm were told about the amusement park, but they are believed to be false. [6:29] Thrillville USA was inspired by an amusement park that Taylor and his brothers visited from time to time when they were younger. The characters are not based on people he knew directly during his childhood, but instead pieced together from stories he heard from other people that he met. [10:03] There is an unintentional metaphor between the amusement park and drug use, being a dangerous activity that is also ominous, fun and exciting. Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Fiction Credits:Excerpt written by: Taylor Koekkoek Excerpt narrated by: Taylor Koekkoek BIO:Taylor Koekkoek received his MFA from Johns Hopkins University. His work has been supported by Oregon Literary Arts, the Breadloaf's Writer's Conference, the University of Wisconsin, Madison, and has appeared in Paris Review, Glimmer Train, Ploughshares, The Iowa Review, online at Tin House, and elsewhere. His short story collection, Thrillville, USA, was published by Simon & Schuster in 2023. He lives in Portland, Oregon, with his wife, Joselyn Takacs, also a writer.Facebook Personal PageTwitter Personal AccountInstagramThrillville USA SeriesOur Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to this week's True Fiction Project Podcast. During this episode, we are mashing up the public speaker and comedian interviews and true fiction pieces from season 3! These episodes include: How to Human 101, Brought Together by Bagels, and Faking the Grade. Each interview and story has something unique to share, ranging from an alien learning to read human body language and facial expressions to an unlikely set of neighbors who bond over bagel preferences, to a doctor turned comedian who fakes his graduation. Tune in today to hear interview snippets and full story stories from each episode! Find the link to the full episode in the notes below.IN THIS EPISODE:[00:47] Interview snippet of Brian Galke discussing how to read human faces and creating a valuable connection with someone else. [1:49] Short story, How to Human 101 by Parker James[6:55] Interview with Gastor Almonte where he talks about living in America while being a child of an immigrant and not meeting their expectations. [8:28] Short story, Brought Together by Bagels by Gastor Almonte [16:01] Interview with Shenuque Tissera about chasing his dreams despite what his parents might think. [17:56] Short story, Faking the Grade by Michael Kobzik.KEY TAKEAWAYS:Face reading is all about letting people feel seen and heard. If you attempt to speak someone's language, you will be treated differently and build better relationships. Immigrant stories are the best American stories because their world view was different, the things they had to go after were different. Many of the kids of immigrants are artists, and the work that they put in first drove the direction of their families in America.Follow your heart. Shenuque knew that he wasn't destined for the graduate school path. Once he followed his heart he was able to find a career that he absolutely loves and is wildly successful at. Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/How to Human 101A short story written and read by: Parker JamesParker Hicks LinkedIn | Parker Hicks Twitter Brought Together by BagelsShort story written by Gastor Almonte, Read by Kristen UdowitzGastor Almonte's Website | The War Report Podcast | Gastor Almonte's Facebook | Gastor Almonte Twitter | Gastor Almonte Instagram | Story Collider WebsiteFaking the GradeShort story written and read by: Michael KobzikShenuque Tissera Website | The Twenty Sided Podcast | Shenuque Tissera's Twitter Shenuque Tissera's Instagram | Shenuque Tissera's TikTok Resources:S3 EP2 How to Human 101S3 EP9 Brought Together By BagelsS3 EP12 Faking the GradeOur Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to the start of season 4 of the True Fiction Project Podcast. This episode was recorded October 11, 2023 and rushed to release to mark the October 2023 events between Israel and Hamas, marking the most significant escalation of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict in several decades.With the heaviness in the world today and the events playing out in Israel and the Gaza strip, I introduce a particularly timely story brought to audiences through playwright, poet and screenwriter, Simone Yehuda. Simone discusses her screenplay, Jerusalem Road, which has wild synchronicity between the storyline and what is happening between the Israelis and Palestinians right now. Simone talks about why it is so important to release her screenplay right now. She shares the history of both the Israelis and Palestinians feeling that home is the same place, and the barriers that are at stake. We then hear a scene from a table read of Simone's screenplay, Jerusalem Road. The scene compares and contrasts the years of suffering the two character groups, Palestinians and Jews, have faced and how both groups were forced into exile.IN THIS EPISODE:[2:47] Simone discusses her background and where her story Jerusalem Road came from.[5:01] Is it true that all of her screenplays focus on the reconciliation of opposites divided by major barriers where survival and identities are at stake? Why did she choose this path? [6:33] Why is Jerusalem Road so important and why release it right now with the events happening in the world?[9:02] Who are some of the characters and what is the context of the characters?[12:26] What is the history of both Israelis and Palestinians feeling that home is the same place?[15:24] Has the significance of the screenplay expanded given what is happening this week? [16:36] Can we bring about change through storytelling?[17:52] Will Simone's screenplay go beyond a screenplay into something more?[22:00 A scene from the screenplay, Jerusalem Road, written by Simone Yehuda.KEY TAKEAWAYS:We're all a human family. We have to try to put an end to the inhumane treatment that is happening. If we keep defending “our own” and not stepping out to right against the things that are going wrong in the world then they will continue to happen. If we can't talk to each other and listen to each other then disaster will follow. Each person's story is valuable and a way to get to know each other's lives, cultures, and history. Take the time to listen to stories as much as you tell them. There is so much loss happening right now, so much inhumane activity happening all across the world with racism, ageism, prejudice behavior. Take the time in your day to spread kindness and empathy. Do what you can to make the world a better place. Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Fiction Credits:Excerpt written by: Simone YehudaBIO:Simone Naomi Yehuda was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts to a German Jewish Holocaust survivor and French Catholic mother whose own mother was a leader of the French Resistance. Writing became her cure for massive psychic trauma. She began as a published poet (two books: THAW and LIFTING WATER) and multi-produced playwright (including a play, WILLING, Off Broadway). While in New York, she played the flute with the New York Symphony and was a member of the Mass Transit Dance Company. Simone began writing screenplays full-time ten years ago hoping to reach a wider audience. She now writes feature screenplays that include JERUSALEM ROAD, THE NEW EVE, LOVE AND HOMICIDE, THE THIRD MOTHER, THE SIG OF A FREE MAN and MATADORA! Her scripts focus on the reconciliation of opposites divided by insurmountable barriers where survival and identity are at stake. Simone's adult twin daughters, physician Valerie Gabriella Press and psychologist/artist Corinna Nicole Press, live in Chicago and San Francisco respectively. She lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan with her historian husband Barry Michael Shapiro.Simone Yehuda's Website Simone Yehuda's LinkedIn Simone Yehuda's Facebook Our Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to this week's True Fiction Project Podcast. During this special episode, we are mashing up the actors and musicians interviews and true fiction pieces from season 2! These episodes include: A Good Samaritan, The Night That Dancing Saved By Life, and The Garden of Earthly Delights. Each interview and story has something unique to share, ranging from a woman who lived in a cult, a man who danced himself away from some serious dangers to a couple who show up to defend the Lord. Tune in today to hear interview snippets and full story stories from each episode! Find the link to the full episode in the notes below.IN THIS EPISODE:[01:16] Interview snippet of Beth Hennessy discussing living in a cult, and her family leaving the cult. [2:24] Short story, A Good Samaritan by Beth Hennessey [8:01] Interview snippet of Anand Bhatt discussing his love for latin music and how he emerged into the world of Latindian music.[9:05] Short story, The Night That Dancing Saved My Life by Anand Bhatt[21:54] Interview snippet of Tramell Tillman sharing his experiences as the character Seth Milchick in Apple TV+ series Severance and what it was like working with director Ben Stiller. [23:39] Short story, The Garden of Earthly Delights written by Parker JamesKEY TAKEAWAYS:Don't be so busy in your own life that you miss horrible things that are going on around you. As what happened with the good samaritans and their avoidance of the cult that Beth Hennessey and family were in. When all else fails, put your dancing shoes on and get out on the dance floor! Enjoy your life, because you never know when it'll be your last day. Actors have to be able to really identify with the roles they are going to play. In the example that Tramell Tillman shares, there were details down to the characters full name that he stood aside and discussed with directors so that everything aligned.Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Fiction Credits:A Good Samaritan A short story written and read by: Beth Hennessy HOME | Kalliah | Kalliah Music Facebook | Kalliah Music Twitter | Kalliah Music InstagramThe Night That Dancing Saved My LifeShort story written and read by: Anand BhattAnand Bhatt's Spotify | Rock Star Recipes TV Show on Amazon | Anand Bhatt's Facebook | Anand Bhatt's Twitter | Anand Bhatt's InstagramThe Garden of Earthly Delights Short story written and read by: Parker JamesParker James Twitter | Parker James LinkedinResources:S2 EP 11 Good Samaratian Full EpsiodeS2 EP 13 The Night The Dancing Saved My LifeS2 EP 8 The Garden of Earthly Delights Our Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to this revisited episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast. I have the privilege of speaking with Les Bird about his fascinating history as a Marine Police Officer in 1976 during the Hong Kong Handover. Les has now written two books about his 21 years in the Marines and his work in helping Vietnamese refugees arrive safely in Hong Kong following the end of the Vietnam War. He recounts specific memories of rescuing refugees from hired criminals and pirates and details the less than ideal conditions of travel that so many Vietnamese braved in order to make it to Hong Kong. Also hear a short story based on Les' Marine adventures called, The Dawn of the Southern Boundary, from Anna Marie Evans.  IN THIS EPISODE:[02:41] Who are the “Boatpeople” referenced in Les' book and why were they fleeing to Hong Kong?[07:25] Why did Hong Kong welcome these refugees when other countries were not as willing and what was Les' role as a Marine Police Officer?[10:44] What was Les' connection with a former soldier in South Vietnam?[16:23] What was the condition of the refugees as they arrived in Hong Kong?[19:15] Les recalls memories from his time as an officer and the corruption that he encountered.[29:45] Short story: The Dawn of the Southern Boundary by Anna Marie EvansKEY TAKEAWAYS:It's estimated that starting in 1975, between 1 and 2 million people fled by boat over the next 15 years from Vietnam to Hong Kong. Following the Vietnam War, Hong Kong became a hub for Vietnamese refugees to find safety and through the United Nations, be relocated to other countries like the US, Canada, and Australia.Many Vietnamese refugees arrived in Hong Kong in unsuitable conditions as they were crammed by the thousands on boats for four to five weeks with no sanitation and little fresh air or food. Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Fiction Credits: Short story written and read by: Anna Marie EvansContact Information: Anna Marie Evans - hkhradio3@gmail.comBIO:Born in 1951, Les comes from a military family. His father, grandfather and three uncles all served in the Royal Navy, whilst his mother served as a gunner with the Royal Artillery during World War II. Les was the second from his family to serve in Hong Kong. His father was part of the British Royal Navy force that came to Hong Kong in August 1945 at the end of the Japanese military occupation and subsequently helped in the policing of the territory throughout 1946.Les Bird joined the Royal Hong Kong Police in 1976 and worked in the Marine Police for 21 years until June 1997. Bird's work was diverse – he was a rural inspector of West Lantau and in the early 80s he returned to launch-going duties overseeing the influx of tens of thousands of Vietnamese refugees in the years that followed. During his service, Les commanded three of the five Marine divisions and also headed the SBU, the Marine Fast Pursuit Unit combating cross-border smuggling of people, arms, drugs and luxury cars.After leaving the police in 1997, Les moved into the private sector, working in the security industry across Asia. He is an endurance athlete and has taken part in Ironman events and long-distance triathlons worldwide. He represented Great Britain at the 2009 Ironman World Championship. In 201,1 he swam the English Channel and in 2012, summited Mont Blanc.In 2020, he spoke to a sold-out audience at the Hong Kong International Literary Festival about his memoir “A Small Band of Men: An Englishman's Adventures in Hong Kong's Marine Police.” And at the 2021 Festival, he presented photographs and stories from his second book “Along the Southern Boundary: A Marine Police Officer's Frontline Account of the Vietnamese Boatpeople and their Arrival in Hong Kong.”Les Bird WebsiteLes Bird on FacebookLes Bird on TwitterLes Bird on InstagramLes Bird on LinkedInOur Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this revisited episode of the True Fiction Project, I speak with Diann Wingert, psychotherapist turned business mindset coach and the host of the Driven Woman Podcast. Why are people so fascinated by Anna Delvey/Anna Sorokin, who bilked her way through the New York social scene? As a psychotherapist, Diann was particularly intrigued by her motivation – what drove this seemingly successful young woman to engage in such fraudulent behavior? Interestingly, much of Anna's motivation can be traced back to her childhood. She was always a bright and imaginative child, but she was also drawn to the finer things in life. This combination of factors likely contributed to her later sense of entitlement and her willingness to take whatever she felt she deserved – even if it meant breaking the law.Tune in as Diann Wingert explains where Anna's personality pathology starts to develop, personality of entrepreneurs vs signs of narcissism, and the real reason audiences like stories where humans are missing morals. Later in the episode, we hear a fictional story written by Parker James.Shifting Weight - A Fictional Story in Print  IN THIS EPISODE:[03:42] Anna Sorokin's personality and what was really the driving force behind her?[10:23] Creative people need to go where creative things are happening. For Anna, that was Paris.[14:00] Diann Wingert explains Anna's personality pathology starts to develop in New York[18:40] Someone called Anna a sociopath and she considered it a compliment. [24:00] Why do we like stories where humans are missing morals?[31:55] Diann talks about age and maturity[34:40] The common ambition shaming of women [38:18] FICTION: Shifting Weight written by Parker James[40:34] Justin James sauntered into the house[41:50] I need you to wire me $2,000, please KEY TAKEAWAYS:Celebrities who came from humble beginnings knew that their hometown was not where they belongedMost people will continue to live a lifestyle and have very close expectations to what they grew up The flaw in her psychological makeup is that she didn't have empathy for the people that she was taking advantage of People are drawn to flawed characters because every one of us has the potential to be arrogant, manipulative, to be an opportunist, to be dishonest. Although we like to watch them fall so we can be reminded that we in fact are not, reassuring us of our own moralityDiann Wingert talks about age and maturity. Does it come as a result of being incarcerated or as she aged and matured We admire, applaud, support, and encourage ambition in males. But girls are supposed to be modest. We are supposed to accept what is offered to women. But men do. So why is this? BIO:Diann Wingert is a psychotherapist turned business mindset coach who serves the growing number of female solopreneurs who struggle with self-employment after successful corporate or nonprofit careers by helping them identify and eliminate the obstacles that hold them back so they can embrace their full potential for success. She is an expert in the mental health challenges of entrepreneurship and how ADHD presents in adult women and entrepreneurs.LINKS:Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Diann Wingert is a psychotherapist turned business mindset coach who serves the growing number of female solopreneurs.WEBSITE: http://diannwingertcoaching.com/PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-driven-woman/id1513039926INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/coachdiannwingert/LINKED IN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diannwingertcoaching/HXGO - New Delhi Song Our Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast! This week's episode is the finale for season 3 and we have actor, writer, and stand up comedian Shenuque Tissera on the show to celebrate! Shenuque shares his story of how he went from a Doctor of Geography to a Stand Up Comedian. He talks about the expectations his parents had of him after immigrating to the US, and his fear of disappointing them as he faked his graduation and dropped out of graduate school. We hear all about the Art of Killin' It and the other projects he is currently working on. The episode ends with the short story titled, Faking the Grade by Michael Kobzik. In this story we follow an aspiring stand up comedian who officially drops out from becoming a Doctor of Geography but still shows up at his graduation to receive a fake diploma to appease his unaware parents.IN THIS EPISODE:[1:57] What is Shenuque's primary career?[2:50] Shenuque walks through his college education path.[11:38] How did Shenuque fake his graduation?[13:10] Shenuque talks about his start as a stand up comedian.[14:53] We hear about the Art of Killin' It.[16:43] How is Quidditch (quadball) actually played?[22:37] What do Shenuque's parents think of the decisions he has made with his career?[23:50] Shenuque tells us about the Twenty Sided Podcast and his character.[26:36] A short story Faking the Grade by Michael Kobzik.KEY TAKEAWAYS:Follow your heart. Shenuque knew that he wasn't destined for the graduate school path. Once he followed his heart he was able to find a career that he absolutely loves and is wildly successful at. Quidditch is a real game that was played at the college level!You can be more than one thing in life! You don't have to silo yourself into one career, follow your passions and see where you end up. Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Fiction Credits:Excerpt written by: Michael KobsikBIO:Shenuque is an actor, writer, and stand-up comedian. He portrays 'Jaylen' in the theatrical production of the Art of Killin' It. He's been featured on HBO Max's Human By Orientation. He is also the voice of Yaksha Rah on the Twenty Sided Podcast. You can find him @shenuque on Instagram or @fakeshenuque on TikTok.Shenuque Tissera Website The Twenty Sided Podcast Shenuque Tissera's Twitter Shenuque Tissera's Instagram Shenuque Tissera's TikTokOur Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast! This week is part 2 from our last episode. During this episode, Jenny Brav discusses her relationship with her father and how she incorporated those experiences in her new book. She talks about finding a “dad box” which held information about her father she never knew since he passed away when she was a child. Jenny talks about the connection with her dad box and her character Sarah's dad box. She goes on to discuss what she found in the dad box and how she is carrying out his dream of writing, by releasing her book, The Unbroken Horizon, on the anniversary of his death. Tune in to hear an excerpt from The Unbroken Horizon when Sarah discovers her dad box and reveals astonishing information and a possible tie to Auschwitz? IN THIS EPISODE: [2:31] What is a “dad box" and how did finding her dad box tie into her character Sarah finding her dad box? [6:56] Did finding the dad box lead Jenny to delve into the family lineage on Ancestry.com? [11:31] Did Jenny move to the bay area because of her father's life in San Francisco? [13:51] Jenny shares the details of when her book release and the special reason she chose to release the book on August 15. [15:37] Jenny reads an excerpt from her book, The Unbroken Horizon. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Getting insight into family after you've lost them can heal many wounds. Being able to find connections between your life, utilize tools like Ancestry.com can help you piece together your loved ones history and make connections to extended family. The Unbroken Horizon, a novel by Jenny Brav is set to be released on the anniversary of her father's death. This is to pay tribute to him and the fact that his dream of being a writer never came to fruition. She is bringing her fathers dream to life.Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/ Fiction Credits: Excerpt written by: Jenny Brav Excerpt narrated by: Jenny Brav BIO: Jenny Brav was born and raised in Paris, France, to American parents who instilled in her a love of words, a sensitivity to the human condition, and a passion for travel. She did humanitarian work in Asia and the Middle East before settling in Oakland, California, where she practices holistic healing. In her spare time, she writes poetry, dabbles in vegan cooking, chases waterfalls, and caters to her calico cat's whims. The Unbroken Horizon, winner of a First Place CIBA award in late historical fiction, is her first novel. It brings together the themes that are close to her heart, especially how we find wholeness within our wounding. [One of her main character's journey to heal from her father's sudden death in her childhood, and her exploration to learn more about that lineage, closely mirror Jenny's own experiences.] Jenny Brav's Personal Facebook PageRadiant Wholeness Healing Facebook PageJenny Brav Website Jenny Brav's TwitterOur Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast! This week I am speaking with author Jenny Brav. She will be releasing her first book, The Unbroken Horizon on August 15, 2023. During this episode, Jenny describes the connection between her own life, where she did humanitarian work for a decade, and her two main characters. Jenny also explains how her humanitarian work led her to a path of holistic healing. Finally, Jenny shares an excerpt of her book, The Unbroken Horizon. In this excerpt, Sarah, one of the main characters, describes in detail with her therapist the moment she found her father dead in their home. Tune in for part 2 of this episode as Jenny discusses her relationship with her father and how she incorporated those experiences in her new book. IN THIS EPISODE:[2:20] Jenny describes her work in the humanitarian and holistic health fields. Did her experience impact her character, Sarah, in The Unbroken Horizon?[5:07] Did Jenny's relationship with her mother play into either of the main character's relationships with their mothers?[9:12] Jenny explains the connection between her holistic health experience and Sarah's nurse job in the book.[14:35] Where can listeners get a copy of The Unbroken Horizon and when will it be available?[16:58] Jenny reads an excerpt from her book The Unbroken Horizon. KEY TAKEAWAYS:Avoiding wounds that you are still holding on to can leave you doing self-sacrificing and playing a supportive role to everyone else's life rather than being the main character in your life. Once you face those wounds, you will be able to be the main character while helping others, which will fill your cup so much more. Therapy is a great way to deal with the wounds or tragedy that you have faced in your past. Allow yourself to feel things, ensure your safety now, and face the hard things. Many characters in fiction books have ties to the author who wrote the book. They may look different, but each other's experiences often show up in some way in their work. Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Fiction Credits:Excerpt written by: Jenny BravExcerpt narrated by: Jenny BravBIO:Jenny Brav was born and raised in Paris, France, to American parents who instilled in her a love of words, a sensitivity to the human condition, and a passion for travel. She did humanitarian work in Asia and the Middle East before settling in Oakland, California, where she practices holistic healing. In her spare time, she writes poetry, dabbles in vegan cooking, chases waterfalls, and caters to her calico cat's whims. The Unbroken Horizon, winner of a First Place CIBA award in late historical fiction, is her first novel. It brings together the themes that are close to her heart, especially how we find wholeness within our wounding. [One of her main character's journey to heal from her father's sudden death in her childhood, and her exploration to learn more about that lineage, closely mirror Jenny's own experiences.]Jenny Brav's Personal Facebook PageRadiant Wholeness Healing Facebook PageJenny Brav's InstagramOur Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast! This week on the podcast, I have the pleasure of talking to Gastor Almonte. He is a Comedy Central featured comedian and storyteller from Brooklyn NY. Gastor shares his experience being a first generation immigrant, and what it was like having parents who immigrated from the Dominican Republic. He shares the benefits he has because of the struggles that they faced coming to America, and how he still ties back everything he does to his roots. Gastor tells a hilarious story about the time he attended the wrong party and how he learned that he was in fact at the neighbors house instead of his aunts. At the end of the episode, we hear the story Brought Together by Bagels about new neighbors who struggle with garbage responsibility, but ultimately come together over their love of bagels. IN THIS EPISODE:[2:28] Gastor introduces himself and talks about his profession.[3:05] Gastor discusses his debut standup album, Immigrant Made, and why he chose that title.[5:18] Why Gastor thinks immigrant stories are the best American stories.[9:00] Is there a big difference between an immigrant and a 1st generation child?[13:48] Gastor shares a hilarious story about a party he attended that he wasn't really supposed to be at. [23:27] What is The Story Collider? [25:48] The short story, Brought Together by Bagels, written by Gastor Almonte and narrated by Kristen Udowitz.KEY TAKEAWAYS:Immigrant stories are the best American stories because their world view was different, the things they had to go after were different. Many of the kids of immigrants are artists, and the work that they put in first drove the direction of their families in America.As a 1st generation American, the challenges are a lot less than what immigrant parents had to go through. Their stakes were much higher and 1st generation children are automatically granted many opportunities that immigrants weren't.Taking opportunities to meet people and get to know them can turn into great stories as well as bonus friendships that we wouldn't otherwise have! Take the time to talk to someone new.  Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Fiction Credits:Short story written by: Gastor AlmonteShort story narrated by: Kristen UdowitzBIO:Gastor Almonte is a comedian and storyteller from Brooklyn, NY (East New York specifically.) He has twice appeared on Comedy Central's This Is Not Happen, Comedy Central's Featuring, Vice Live, and the PBS featured Stories From The Stage. His appearance on Stories From The Stage won the 2020 Webby People's Voice award for Best Individual Performance. Timeout Magazine named him “One of your new comedy obsessions.”His debut album, Immigrant Made, debut at #1 on the iTunes Comedy, Google Play Comedy and Amazon Music Comedy charts. His self-funded independent special, “Immigrant Made”, can be seen on Amazon Prime.He is a producer and board member of the science-storytelling non-profit Story Collider. He is also the producer and co-host of the topical news comedy podcast, The War Report, with co-host Shalewa Sharpe.Currently, Gastor can be seen touring the country and workshoping his one-man show, The Sugar.Gastor Almonte's WebsiteThe War Report PodcastGastor Almonte's FacebookGastor Almonte TwitterGastor Almonte InstagramStory Collider WebsiteOur Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast! On today's episode we have award-winning writer, teacher, actress, director and producer, Denise Frisino. Denise is currently writing the third book of The Orchid Trilogy which is a series of books sharing stories of wartime fiction. In this episode, she shares what inspired her to write her books and describes the strong women characters that have arisen from her research. Denise tells us about the interviews that she did with WWII heroes and the miracles that fell into place during her research for the books. Denise then reads an excerpt from her book Orchids of War about Billi O'Shaughnessy, a young caucasian woman fluent in Japanese that would be selected to help the US uncover the Nippon spies.IN THIS EPISODE:[2:11] Denise tells us about The Orchid Trilogy [4:40] Denise talks about the contribution of all in the war.[7:21] Where did the strong women characters come from in Denise's stories?[8:32] How involved was her father in the stories she has written? [11:05] What were the miracles that happened while writing her books?[15:20] Denise talks about her time working with Robin Williams.[17:06] Denise gives us a summary of Orchids of War.[17:50] How is the 3rd book of the Trilogy going?[21:50] Denise reads an excerpt from her book Orchids of War.KEY TAKEAWAYS:A profitable business during the wars was taking fat from the meat that was cut off and having it melted down for bullets. Everyone contributed during WWII, whether they were wrapping bandages, doing whatever they could on the home front as well as working overseas. This included being a nurse, cook, providing clothing, etc. Many veterans never tell their stories because they are worried about the impact it would have on their families. The work that Denise is doing allows them to share their story privately while giving her the opportunity to create a fiction piece out of these truths.Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Fiction Credits:Short story written by: Denise FrisinoShort story narrated by: Denise FrisinoBIO:A Seattle native, Denise Frisino, is an award-winning writer, teacher, actress, director, and producer.Whiskey Cove, her first novel, a fast-paced who done it, centers around Prohibition in the Northwest.Next came Orchids of War and Storms From A Clear Sky, both finalists in numerous national competitions, including 1st place for the Hemingway Book Award for 20th Century Wartime Fiction.When researching for these historical fictions, Denise spent over 10 years interviewing 50 men and women from the WWII era. She weaves the experiences of those she interviewed into her story about Japanese espionage along the West Coast prior to WWII, then follows the same characters throughout the war.She is currently working on the last book in the Orchids Trilogy and the movie script for Whiskey CoveHer blogs and YouTube channel contain some of the WWII veteran interviews and she has just launched a new web www.wwiiinterviews.com.Denise has stood atop 5 mountain peaks over 14,000 feet, lived aboard one of the old Mosquito Fleet boats on Lake Union, and drank scotch with Katharine Hepburn. She enjoys being on the water and loves her rowboat. Denise and her husband continue to enjoy the many facets of the Pacific Northwest.WWII Interviews Denise Frisino's Website Denise Frisino's Facebook Denise Frisino's Instagram Storms From A Clear Sky Book LinkOrchids of War Book LinkWhiskey Cove Book LinkOur Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy