Podcasts about Creative writing

EPISODE 655 - David Boop - Speculative fiction author of sci-fi noir, historical, dark fantasy & the Weird WesternsDavid Boop is a Denver-based speculative fiction author & editor. He's also an award-winning essayist, and screenwriter. Before turning to fiction, David worked as a DJ, film critic, journalist, and actor.David's novels run the gambit, such as the sci-fi/noir She Murdered Me with Science; The Soul Changers, a historical, dark fantasy tie-in to Rippers Resurrected; and the Weird Western mosaic novel, The Drowned Horse Chronicle. He co-authored, with NYT Bestselling author Kevin J. Anderson, a near-future graphic novel series called Travailiant Rising.David edited the bestselling and award-nominated Weird Western anthology series, Straight Outta Tombstone, Straight Outta Deadwood and Straight Outta Dodge City. He's currently working on a trio of Space Western anthologies starting with Gunfight on Europa Station. He's editor on the forthcoming Jack L. Chalker Well World tribute anthology.David is prolific in short fiction with many short stories including media tie-ins for Predator (nominated for the 2018 Scribe Award), Deadlands, Kolchak the Night Stalker, The Green Hornet, and Veronica Mars.He's a summa cum laude Graduate from UC-Denver in the Creative Writing program. He temps, collects Funko Pops, and is a believer. His hobbies include film noir, anime, the Blues and the Old West.https://wolfpackpublishing.com/pages/about-david-boophttps://www.longshot-productions.net/Support the show___https://livingthenextchapter.com/podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks!https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

Memoirist and director of the Institute for American Indian Arts MFA program Deborah Jackson Taffa talks to Jared about her new book, Whiskey Tender. Deborah shares how memoir writing is a form of familial and historical preservation, and offers advice on having difficult conversations with the real people who appear in our creative nonfiction. Plus, she discusses the value of the low-res IAIA program for both indigenous and non-indigenous writers, offers strategies for sustaining creative energy, and describes methods to avoid falling into a common misstep for MFA students: social comparison.A citizen of the Quechan (Yuma) Nation and Laguna Pueblo, Deborah Jackson Taffa is the director of the MFA in Creative Writing program at the Institute for American Indian Arts. She is the author of the memoir WHISKEY TENDER and holds an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Iowa. Her writing can be found at PBS, Salon, LARB, Brevity, A Public Space, The Boston Review, The Rumpus, and the Best American Nonrequired Reading. In late 2021, she was named a MacDowell Fellow, Kranzberg Arts Fellow, and Tin House Scholar. In 2022, she won a PEN American Grant for Oral History and was named a Hedgebrook Fellow. Find her at deborahtaffa.com and on social media @deborahtaffa.MFA Writers is hosted by Jared McCormack and produced by Jared McCormack and Hanamori Skoblow. New episodes are released every two weeks. You can find more MFA Writers at MFAwriters.com.BE PART OF THE SHOWDonate to the show at Buy Me a Coffee.Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.Submit an episode request. If there's a program you'd like to learn more about, contact us and we'll do our very best to find a guest who can speak to their experience.Apply to be a guest on the show by filling out our application.STAY CONNECTEDTwitter: @MFAwriterspodInstagram: @MFAwriterspodcastFacebook: MFA WritersEmail: mfawriterspodcast@gmail.com

Ever feel like you're constantly creating content for strangers on social media? If so, are you doing it while ignoring the people who've already paid you for your products or services? Yeah, we need to talk about that.In this final episode of 2025, my friend Colie James joins me to call out the exhausting cycle of chasing new leads when the people most likely to say yes are already in your world—your former clients, your email list, even those leads who didn't book the first time. We're breaking down why marketing to your actual audience beats talking to strangers in the void, how to stop making assumptions about who will buy from you, and why your first stop for any cash infusion should never be Instagram._____________________________________________  EPISODE 176.Read the show notes and view the full transcript here: https://erinollila.com/selling-to-the-people-who-are-already-in-your-audience-with-colie-james/______________________________________________Learn all about our guest expert, Colie JamesColie James is a Disney-loving Client Experience Systems Strategist and the host of the Business-First Creatives podcast. Her heart pumps in helping photographers & creative service providers automate their processes, reclaim their time and get back to living! With 13+ years in the creative space, Colie believes every creative deserves to build a business that is sustainable and profitable, and no one should quit their 9 to 5 only to work 24/7 [in their business].The truth—automated systems can save us all from being overworked and overwhelmed.When Colie isn't building killer workflows and automations, you can find her spending some much needed time with her husband, James, daughter Chloe, or [you guessed it] at Disneyland. When you're done listening to this episode of the podcast with Colie, click through the archives to hear an episode on customer experience and another on Airtable content hubs (or just click those links!) Oh, and she interviewed me on my podcast about my business trajectory, too!https://erinollila.com/why-is-customer-experience-important-with-colie-james/https://erinollila.com/erin-ollilas-business-trajectory/https://erinollila.com/creating-an-airtable-content-marketing-hub/And then—and only then!—I suggest you head over to HER podcast, Business-First Creatives, to hear even more awesome content from this great guest expert.Here's the info on your host, Erin OllilaErin Ollila believes in the power of words and how a message can inform – and even transform – its intended audience. She graduated from Fairfield University with an M.F.A. in Creative Writing, and went on to co-found Spry, an award-winning online literary journal.When Erin's not helping her clients understand their website data or improve their website copy, you can catch her hosting the Talk Copy to Me podcast and guesting on shows such as Profit is a Choice, Mindful Marketing, The Power in Purpose, and Business-First Creatives.Stay in touch with Erin Ollila, SEO website copywriter:• Learn more about my VIP intensive options or just book a strategy session to get started right away• Visit Erin's website to learn more about her business, services, and products

Have you ever wondered if the experiences that shaped your life could become the powerful story someone else needs to spark change in their own? In a world overflowing with AI-generated content, our true, human stories are becoming more valuable than ever. Imagine sharing the moments you've lived through—not just the sparkling highlights, but the vulnerable truths and the hard-won lessons—with people who genuinely need to hear them. This week, I'm joined by Marcela Gamboa, a gifted ghostwriter and memoir coach. Marcela works with six-figure female entrepreneurs, helping them turn their journeys—especially the parts they didn't think were important or relevant—into unforgettable memoirs that connect and inspire. If you've ever doubted whether your story matters, or felt unsure how to even start organizing your life into something worth reading, this is for you. In this episode, we cover: Why sharing your real, messy, and sometimes painful experiences can become the most powerful way to build trust and authority—not just with your audience, but with yourself. What makes a strong, readable memoir that readers actually pick up and finish? Is it just a method, or is there something deeper behind the words? How working with someone like Marcela Gamboa is different from using AI or a standard writing template. What is the real value in honoring your personal voice and vision? Why many women think their stories aren't worthy, and how to move past those barriers to create something truly meaningful. What steps you can take right now—even if you have a jumble of memories and no idea where to begin. If you've ever dreamed of leaving a legacy or wondered whether your journey could help others, you'll want to listen to this warm, honest conversation. Let's turn your story into your superpower. Listen in! About our guest: Marcela Gamboa is a ghostwriter and memoir coach who helps six-figure women entrepreneurs transform their most powerful life experiences into impactful published books. Holding a degree in Creative Writing and bringing expertise in marketing and copywriting, Marcela is renowned for her poetic approach to language and her ability to capture the emotional truth of each story. She skillfully aligns a client's personal narrative with their business goals and legacy vision, ensuring the story resonates authentically. Her services are designed for high-impact women ready to share meaningful stories but who may lack the time, energy, or writing skills to do it themselves. Marcela offers a high-touch, collaborative process that goes far beyond simply putting words on a page. She is dedicated to clarity, compassion, and truly honoring each client's unique voice in a way that moves readers deeply. Whether clients seek to craft a personal memoir or a business-focused story with heart, Marcela guides them in bringing their message to life, ensuring that their book becomes a powerful asset to their brand and a lasting part of their body of work. Connect with Marcela: Business name & website link Kinikia Creative https://www.kinikiacreative.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kinikiacreative/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcela-gamboa-44237a49/ ==================== The NICHE Buster 7 Day Program For coaches, creatives, consultants who want to rise above the crowd with unique expert positioning! https://www.jessicaosborn.com/nichechallenge ................................................. Loving this podcast? Please drop a 5 star rating to help others find it too! If you have a spare 30 seconds we would be so grateful if you would leave a short review. Simply hit the 5 stars and add a few words of your own about your experience listening to She's The Business Podcast. You might be chosen as the review of the month and featured on an upcoming episode! ......................................................... About your host: Jessica Osborn is a strategic business coach who helps online experts step into authority and attract premium clients with ease. Drawing on 25 years in marketing and 15 years as a successful entrepreneur, she teaches women how to design unique and profitable signature programs that set them apart and attract a waitlist. As an active mother of two she's all about creating efficient, lean and sustainable service models that product multiple six-figure years without sacrificing your lifestyle! Learn more & book an intro call: https://jessicaosborn.com Instagram or Threads: https://instagram.com/jessica.osborn LinkedIn: Https://linkedin.com/in/jessicaaosborn Facebook: https://facebook.com/jessicaosborn.bxcoach

Nick Cohen and Dr Bharat Tandon, academic, novelist & Booker Prize judge, discuss Jane Austen's astonishing legacy before delving into a detailed analysis of her enduring popularity and literary significance. They explored themes of claustrophobia in Austen's works, particularly how her novels depict the constraints of patriarchal structures and economic relations for women, while also examining the misinterpretation of her writing by modern figures like Milo Yiannopoulos. The discussion concluded with an analysis of Austen's subtle political commentary in "Mansfield Park" and her innovative narrative style, emphasising the importance of returning to the original texts for a deeper understanding of her work.Bharat and Nick discuss the theme of claustrophobia in the works of early 19th-century women writers, particularly focusing on Jane Austen. They explore how Austen's novels, such as "Sense and Sensibility" and "Pride and Prejudice," depict the inescapable constraints of patriarchal structures and economic relations for women. Bharat highlighted the significance of the number 27 in Austen's fiction, representing the age at which women might lose economic security and be forced into undesirable marriages.Nick compares Austen's portrayal of a claustrophobic society to modern experiences of social media, where individuals are constantly under scrutiny. They also discussed Austen's innovative narrative style, which allows readers to connect with marginalised female characters while highlighting their societal constraints.Slavery in Austen's 'Mansfield ParkBharat and Nick discuss the portrayal of slavery in Jane Austen's "Mansfield Park," analyzing whether the novel is complicit with the social injustices of its time. Bharat argues that while the novel acknowledges the economic and ethical presence of slavery, it does not easily draw the conclusion that Austen is complicit with it. Instead, he suggests that the novel highlights the socio-economic guilt of the early 19th century without offering a solution, reflecting the characters' anxious avoidance of discussing slavery.Read all about it! Dr Bharat Tandon is a writer and lecturer at the University of East Anglia's School of Literature, Drama and Creative Writing.A graduate in English literature from Trinity College, Cambridge, Bharat then taught at Cambridge from 1995 to 2006, and at Oxford from 2006-11, before joining the UEA in 2012. His research and teaching interests take in British literature from 1700 to the present day, and American literature from 1900. His doctoral research was on Jane Austen, and he has worked in detail on other nineteenth-century novelists such as Charles Dickens, George Eliot, and Thomas Hardy, as well as on British Modernist writers such as Henry Green. In addition to his academic research and teaching, he been active since 1994 as a commentator on contemporary British and American fiction and culture, writing regularly for publications such as The Times Literary Supplement and The Daily Telegraph.Nick Cohen's @NickCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KATIE CROSS - BIOGRAPHY Katie Cross is ALL ABOUT writing epic magic and wild places. Creating new fantasy worlds is her jam. When she's not hiking or chasing her two littles through the Montana mountains, you can find her curled up reading a book or arguing with her husband over the best kind of sushi. Visit her at www.KatieCrossBooks.com for free short stories, extra savings on all her books (and some you can't buy on the retailers), and so much more. Mark McWaters has long been a fan of all things that go bump in the night, scratch at the door, or blow cold air on the back of your neck. From a very young age, he carried a pad and pencil around with him, composing poems to give to girls. He devoured all the Hardy Boys and Doc Savage books he could get his hands on and expanded his reading horizons from there. Robert Heinlein, Asimov, and Bradbury, whetted his appetite for Sci-Fi. Ann Rice's Interview With The Vampire blew his mind. A scene from Stephen King's Salem's Lot haunts him to this day. And Watcher by Dean Koontz made him a lifelong fan. He earned an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Became an award-winning advertising copywriter and creative director and earned enough Clios, Addys, and Communication Arts awards for bragging rights. As a writer, Mark discovered the Florida Writers Association, critique groups and writing competitions. He's won a steady stream of FWA Royal Palm Literary awards for his unpublished short stories and novels. The inspiration behind “Ghost Dog” came while reading entry rules for a magazine looking for unusual spins on traditional horror. Houses, people, dolls, even cars get haunted. So, he thought, why not dogs? Bentley, a West Highland White Terrier who sleeps under Mark's desk while he writes, agreed. The Contest, one of the most prestigious writing and illustrating competitions in the world, is currently in its 43rd year and is judged by some of the premier names in speculative fiction. The Writers of the Future Contest judges include, Tim Powers (author of On Stranger Tides), Kevin J. Anderson and Brian Herbert (Dune prequel series), Robert J. Sawyer (The Oppenheimer Alternative), Brandon Sanderson (Mistborn series, The Stormlight Archive), Larry Niven (Ringworld), Orson Scott Card (Ender's Game), Nnedi Okorafor (Who Fears Death), Hugh Howey (Wool), and Katherine Kurtz (Deryni series) to name a few. The Illustrators of the Future Contest judges include, Bob Eggleton (11 Chesley Awards and 9 Hugo Awards), Larry Elmore (Dungeons & Dragons book covers), Echo Chernik (graphic designs for major corporations including Celestial Seasonings tea packaging), Rob Prior (art for Spawn, Heavy Metal comics and Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Ciruelo (Eragon Coloring Book).

Main fiction: "Stars in a Grave, Stars in a Skull"Jeremy Szal was born in 1995 and was raised by wild dingoes, which should explain a lot. He writes epic fantasy and dark space opera of a character-driven, morally grey nature. His main series is the Common trilogy from Gollancz/Hachette, which includes Stormblood, Blindspace, and Woflskin, about a drug harvested from alien DNA that makes users permanently addicted to adrenaline and aggression. He's the author of over fifty short stories, translated into fifteen languages, many of which appear in his short fiction collection Broken Stars. He was the editor for the Hugo-winning StarShipSofa until 2020 and has a BA in Film Studies and Creative Writing from UNSW. He carves out a living in Sydney, Australia with his family, where he loves watching weird movies, eating Japanese food, exploring cities, learning languages, cold weather and dark humour. Find him at https://jeremyszal.substack.com/ or @JeremySzalThis story first appeared in Broken Stars (2024).Narration by: Will StaglWill Stagl lives in Tucson Arizona and is a proud member of the StarShipSofa team. This month you'll likely find him tearing through some fantasy epic at a local café or waiting for the next sci-fi TV show to air.Fact: Looking Back At Genre History by Amy H SturgisSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/starshipsofa. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Holy smokes! Now THIS is how you write a murder mystery. If you're a mystery writer, or simply want to watch an absolutely fantastic film during the holiday season, be sure to check out THE LAST OF SHEILA. This episode originally aired in Season 9 and it's one of our favourites. So sit back and enjoy, and we'll be back with a brand new show on January 14, 2026. -V. Acquire the power to write a bestselling story at storynerd.ca/courses For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.

Nicholas Boggs is the New York Times bestselling author of Baldwin: A Love Story, the first major biography of the iconic figure in more than three decades. He is the recipient of a 2023 Whiting Creative Nonfiction Grant and fellowships from the Leon Levy Center for Biography, the Scholars-in-Residence program at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, the Gilder Lehrman Center and Beinecke Library at Yale, and the National Endowment for the Humanities, as well as residencies at Yaddo and MacDowell. Most recently he was the 2024-2025 John Hope Franklin Fellow at the National Humanities Center. Born and raised in Washington, D.C., he received his BA from Yale and his PhD from Columbia, both in English, as well as an MFA in Creative Writing from American University. He now resides in New York City. Nicholas joined Barbara DeMarco-Barrett to talk about his path to writing nonfiction, what moved him to write a biography of James Baldwin, how he went about structuring the book, perseverance versus talent, research, how his background in music influences his writing, surprises in writing the Baldwin biography, writing what you don't know, and more.To learn more about Writers on Writing and to become a supporter, visit our Patreon page. For a one-time donation, visit Ko-fi. You will find hundreds of past interviews on our website. You can help out the show and indie bookstores by buying books at our bookstore on bookshop.org. It's stocked with titles by our guest authors, as well as our personal favorites. And on Spotify, you'll find an album's worth of typewriter music like what you hear on the show. It's perfect for writing. Look for the artist, Just My Type. If you'd like to contact us, email writersonwritingpodcast@gmail.com. We love to hear from our listeners! (Recorded on December 19, 2025) Host: Barbara DeMarco-BarrettHost: Marrie StoneMusic: Travis Barrett (Stream his music on Spotify, Apple Music, Etc.)

Author Michael Pastore reflects on his 40 years of Van Halen fandom and the valuable lessons he's learned along the way! Purchase a copy of The Mighty Van Halen: One Fan's Journey15% OFF Any Purchase At Old Glory For Booked On Rock Listeners! — Over 300,000 officially licensed items. Featuring legendary music artists like Bob Marley, The Beatles,Grateful Dead, and more. Use the code "BOOKEDONROCK" or hit this link:https://oldglory.com/discount/BOOKEDONROCK----------Booked On Rock is part of The Boneless Podcasting Network BookedOnRock.com The Booked On Rock Store The Booked On Rock YouTube Channel Follow The Booked On Rock with Eric Senich:BLUESKYFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMTIKTOKX Find Your Nearest Independent Bookstore Contact The Booked On Rock Podcast: thebookedonrockpodcast@gmail.com The Booked On Rock Music: “Whoosh” by Crowander / “Last Train North” & “No Mercy” by TrackTribe

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, it was such a joy to talk with authorMerav Fima and to celebrate her amazing collection of short stories that just came out. Late Blossoms is one of my favourite reads of the past year!I really think you'll be inspired to hear about her process of writing and editing these short stories, especially as a busy mom and a wife who is balancing a lot. Through it all, her joy for the writing process comes through so vividly.She shares:The moment that she knew she was going to be a writerWhat made her finally start taking herself seriously as a writer and writing consistentlyWhat it's like having characters as part of your life for so long before your final work is completeHow the short story form is so different from longer forms like memoir or novels, and the misconceptions around thatHer process for writing a story when she gets an idea and how she knows if it's meant to be a story as opposed to a longer pieceAbout Merav: Merav Fima is a writer, translator, and literary critic currently based in Melbourne, Australia. She is the author of the forthcoming Sephardic migration novel The Rose of Thirteen Petals and the Pomegranate Tree (Running Wild Press, 2026) and of the short story collection Late Blossoms (Vine Leaves Press, October 2025). She holds a Ph.D. in Creative Writing from Monash University and her work has appeared in anthologies and literary journals worldwide. Connect with her at meravfima.com and on IG @merav.fima>> And if you are an entrepreneur who wants to write and publish the book inside your heart, I'd love for you to join me in my free Facebook group Women Entrepreneurs Becoming Best Selling Authors. We discuss the podcast episodes, I host free challenges and you may even meet your new writing partner to swap pages with!

Here, author Anna Beecher tenderly shares what brought her to write both her debut novel and recently published memoir, and speaks to: the fragile miraculousness of everything; grief, as a tear in the fabric of the universe; the privilege of aging; and how accepting mortality, as a part of life, is to be more fully alive. Anna is a writer and theatre-maker from the United Kingdom. She is the author of the novel Here Comes the Miracle, which was shortlisted for The Sunday Times Young Writer of the Year Award. Here Comes the Miracle follows siblings in their twenties, Joe and Emily, during the final year of Joe's life, interweaving their story with that of their Grandparents Eleanor and Edward. Anna's second book, the memoir We All Come Home Alive, was published in 2025. A memoir in essays, We All Come Home Alive,  tells the story of Anna's life through the moments which remade her, from car crashes to bereavement to motherhood. Anna's theater work has been presented by venues including Lincoln Center, Young Vic, Southbank Center, and Barbican London. She is Assistant Professor of Creative Writing at the University of Virginia. Her work is about love. You can connect with Anna through Substack at from Anna Beecher, on Instagram  @annabeecher_writer or through www.annabeecher.com You may purchase Here Comes the Miracle wherever books are sold, and We All Come Home Alive exclusively at New Dominon Bookshop  in Charlottesville, VA, until it's official US release in September '26. ------------ Get Lauren's 10-Min Meditation for Grief to support you on your journey! This meditation is for you if you're looking to: Lower Stress, Increase your Peace, Connect to your Heart, and Give your energy back to Joy You can connect with Lauren on Instagram via @lauren.samay and @mymourningroutinepodcast, on Facebook @lauren.samay.coaching or through www.laurensamay.com If you are tuning in and finding value in these episodes, please take a moment to rate and review My Mourning Routine on Apple Podcasts-- it means so much and helps make a bigger, connecting splash in the podcasting pond!  

Three hundred episodes! Can you believe it?? How did we get here? What an amazing feat! Never did I ever imagine that I would have a podcast let alone release 300 episodes! To celebrate, I have invited my writer-friends and fellow Pinays, Rebecca Mabanglo-Mayor and Tamiko Nimura! In this episode, we talk about what has kept us steady and tethered during this year of upheavals and drastic change. With the new moon and the winter solstice approaching this weekend, we also talked about what seeds we want to plant for the coming season and new year. Bring a cup of tea and tune in to this episode to feel uplifted by listening in on a chat with good friends. Here's to 300!Tamiko Nimura's forthcoming book, A Place For What We Lose, is due out April 28, 2026 from University of Washington Press. Pre-order your copy today and take advantage of their 40% off sale! Go here: https://uwapress.uw.edu/book/9780295754758/a-place-for-what-we-lose/ ===============Today's poems/ Books mentioned:Tarot/Oracle Card: Three of Swords (Reversed)"Samadhi" by Vikus Menon=============== Courses / Exclusive Content / Book Mentioned:Subscribe to mailing list + community: suryagian.com/subscribe and get the 7-day meditation challenge, “Spark Joy in Chaos”Subscribe to “Adventures in Midlife” newsletter: leslieann.substack.comInstagram: @leslieannhobayan Email: leslieann@suryagian.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxAeQWRRsSo5E7PBJdZUeoEAYXnAtuyRyKundalini Yoga Classes: https://www.suryagian.com/anchor-amplify-kundaliniSpeak Your Truth: https://www.suryagian.com/speak-your-truth About Tamiko NimuraTamiko is an award-winning creative nonfiction writer, community journalist, editor, and educator with experience in higher education, the arts, public history, and Asian American communities. Her forthcoming memoir, A Place for What We Lose: A Daughter's Return to Tule Lake, will be published by the University of Washington Press.She is the author of Rosa Franklin: A Life in Health Care, Public Service, and Social Justice (Washington State Legislative Oral History Program, 2019) and co-author of We Hereby Refuse: Japanese American Acts of Wartime Resistance (Chin Music Press/Wing Luke Museum, 2021).For eight years, Tamiko coached writing and literature students across a wide range of academic and non-academic settings. Since leaving academia in 2011, she has expanded her work to include public history, social media support, blogging, grant writing, and writing for newspapers and magazines.For more than a decade, she has written a commissioned monthly essay series on Japanese American history, arts, and culture for Discover Nikkei, with a focus on the Pacific Northwest and Washington State.Her areas of specialization include diversity and equity, higher education, Japanese American history, writing and editing, grant writing, publishing, food writing, proofreading, and Asian American issues.===============About Rebecca Mabanglo-MayorRebecca Mabanglo-Mayor's non-fiction, poetry, and short fiction have appeared in print and online in several journals and anthologies including Katipunan Literary Magazine, Growing Up Filipino II: More Stories for Young Adults, Kuwento: Small Things, and Beyond Lumpia, Pansit, and Seven Manangs Wild: An Anthology. Her poetry chapbook Pause Mid-Flight was released in 2010. She is also the co-editor of True Stories: The Narrative Project Vol. I-IV, and her poetry and essays have been collected in Dancing Between Bamboo Poles. She has been performing as a storyteller since 2006 and specializes in stories based on Filipino folktales and Filipino-American history.Rebecca, as Rebecca A. Saxton, received her MFA in Creative Writing from Pacific Lutheran University in 2012, her BA in Humanities from Washington State University in 1998, and her MA degree in English with honors from Western Washington University in 2003.

Main Talking PointsThe Creative Journey and Solo Writing: Kristin reflects on the transition from co-authoring the dystopian Badlands series to the "very scary" but rewarding experience of writing her first solo romance, One Last Summer.The Power of Dialogue: Kristin shares that writing dialogue is her greatest strength, noting that sharp, authentic character interactions are what truly separate great stories from mediocre ones.Navigating Creative Conflict: The duo discusses how to manage disagreements during the writing process, with Kristin emphasising the importance of taking one's ego out of the equation to determine what best serves the story.The Reality of Miscommunication: They explore why "miscommunication" is such a vital trope in fiction, arguing that it reflects the biggest real-world hurdle in human relationships.Personal Inspiration and Quirks: Kristin reveals how a fourth-grade teacher ignited her love for writing and she shares fun personal details, from being a twin to her "overactive imagination" and full holiday decorating habits.Sneak Peek: Kristin shares something very exciting in the show - a 'first look'...LINKSThe Badlands Series - https://amzn.eu/d/hSDLaktOne Last Summer - https://amzn.eu/d/hw1VvOiWorth Waiting For - https://amzn.eu/d/aXqhmEhKristin Keppler - https://www.kristinkeppler.com/ LINKSConnect with Natalie at Instagram or LinkedInOrder Natalie's debut book here: You Already Have the AnswerDo you like journalling and are your wanting to create new habits? Your Morning Ritual is waiting and ready for you.Need some motivation on your Mondays - here's Natalie's Monday Quick Wins email.Wanting to develop your confidence - sign up for Natalie's Confidently You course here

Wayne's World is a superior example of an anti-plot story (and it's hilarious to boot!). As Melanie and I take a much deserved recording break to enjoy the holidays with our families, we're sharing this archive episode with you because, if nothing else, it'll bring a smile to your face and give you a good laugh. We'll be back on January 15, 2026 with a brand new episode. Until then Happy Holidays, everyone! - V. Acquire the power to write a bestselling story at storynerd.ca/courses For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.

Duncan Kemp, a state government lawyer, took an unconventional path to environmental law. After working in college athletics fundraising and earning an MFA in Creative Writing, he entered law school part-time with a clear goal: protecting natural resources. But landing that environmental job proved harder than expected. Today, he manages litigation for one of Louisiana's largest landowners—from boundary disputes and coastal erosion cases to pipeline enforcement and exotic animal seizures. Duncan discusses balancing conservation with hunting traditions and economic growth, and coordinating litigation across agencies. Plus, he talks about the satisfying trade-off between lower government pay and a better work-life balance. Duncan is a graduate of Southern University Law Center.This episode is hosted by Kyle McEntee.Mentioned in this episode:Access LawHub today!Colorado Law SchoolLearn more about Colorado LawLoyola Law SchoolLearn more about Loyola Law School

Pieces about Christmas and New Year's, from Nancy Smith Harris, Patric Pepper, and Liz Abrams-Morley. Support the show

In this episode of Pinky Swear Confessions, Danielle is joined by friend and fellow thriller author, Hannah Morrissey. Hannah is the author of the Black Harbor suspense series which includes Hello, Transcriber, The Widowmaker, When I'm Dead, and The Unlucky Ones. A three-decade survivor ofWisconsin winters, Hannah enjoys putting her characters (and readers) in bone-chilling atmospheres that permeate beyond the page. Naturally, her books have carved out their own sub-genre of “Midwestern Noir.”  Hannah graduated from the University of Wisconsin - Madisonwhere she majored in English with an emphasis in Creative Writing. She grew up in a small northern town and now lives near Milwaukee with her husband, three pugs, and a TBR pile that never seems to get any smaller. #PinkySwearBook #DanielleGirard #ThrillerReads#DomesticThriller #Bookstagram #BookTok #SuspenseReads #FemaleFriendship #MothersAndDaughters #BookReels #PsychologicalThriller #NewRelease2025 #ReadersOfInstagram #Bookish #podcast #author #interview #authors #KillerWomen #KillerWomenPodcast #authorsontheair #podcast #podcaster #killerwomen#killerwomenpodcast #authors #authorsofig #authorsofinstagram #authorinterview #writingcommunity #authorsontheair #suspensebooks #authorssupportingauthors#thrillerbooks #suspense #wip #writers #writersinspiration #books #bookrecommendations #bookaddict #bookaddicted #bookaddiction #bibliophile #read #amreading #lovetoread #daniellegirardbooks #hannahmorrissey

Dawson having shown up in Boston as none of us particularly wanted him to, he's had a delightful weekend (offscreen) with Joey. That all changes on his last day when he finally thinks to call his USC dorm room for the one and only message on his answering machine: the one Joey left, while drunk at a frat party, telling him that SHE. Is OVER. HIM. Or something like that. Suddenly, Dawson is incensed, so it's a good thing Joey has an administrative task to handle: it's the last day she can drop Professor Wilder's Creative Writing class, so she's going to be standing in an hours-long line while Dawson has Audrey give him the campus tour and listen to his bitching about his lonely loser life in Los Angeles. (Which we already had a glimpse of with that nearly empty answering machine.) Pacey turns out not to be a lonely loser on the yacht: he's seeing a rich girl named Melanie (future House and Once Upon A Time star Jennifer Morrison!), this summer's boat babe, and this one will even sleep with him. Pacey has just blown off a job hookup Doug arranged for him with his chef friend when Melanie casually picks up their lunch check at a fine dining establishment, because Pacey is unemployed. But the Pacey who loves taking care of people can't let THAT stand. Maybe working for Doug's friend won't be so bad! After days of fruitless wandering, Jen chances back upon Charlie during his show at the campus radio station. Tiresome flirting over 80s music and feminist literature leads them straight into bed -- oldest story in the world. Don't go anywhere: you've found our episode on "The Lost Weekend"! JOIN THE AWT CLUB

I had a lovely interview with Peter Mladinic, a Poet, Writer, Book Reviewer, Animal Advocate and so much more. About Peter MladinicAccess Peter's books:Peter Mladinic was born and raised in New Jersey. He graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1973 and earned an MFA in Creative Writing at the University of Arkansas in 1985. Professor emeritus at New Mexico Junior College, where he was a member of the English faculty for thirty years. During that time, he was a board member of the Lea County Museum and president of the Lea County Humane Society. He is the author of seven books of poems; his most recent book, The Whitestone Bridge, is available on Amazon. https://a.co/d/094MkMw An animal rights advocate, he lives in Hobbs, New Mexico, USA.

Ready to move beyond routine dental checkups and unlock your body's full potential? In The Dental Fitness Advantage: How a Healthy Mouth Enhances Total Body Health and Elevates Performance (Playbook Scholars, 2025), Dr. Camesia O. Matthews, a general and sports dentist, introduces the concept of dental fitness, a breakthrough approach that links oral health to whole-body wellness, athletic performance, and even confidence. With clear science and relatable analogies, Dr. Matthews uncovers surprising connections between the mouth and the body: from how oral bacteria influence heart disease and Alzheimer's to why your “bite” affects sleep quality and body balance, and how wearing a custom-fitted sports mouthguard could even boost athletic performance. The book is built on five practical pillars: Prevention, Posture, Protection, Presentation, and Psychology. It also includes a unique assessment tool, the Dental Fitness Score, which helps you track your progress. Each pillar offers simple, actionable steps to help you: Prevent issues before they start Improve sleep, balance, and even muscle strength Guard against avoidable dental injuries Boost confidence with a healthy smile The Dental Fitness Advantage is an empowering guide for athletes, professionals, and anyone seeking to feel, look, and perform at their best, starting with the mouth. About the author: Dr. Camesia O. Matthews is a Massachusetts-based general and certified sports dentist, author, and community advocate. She is passionate about connecting oral health to total-body wellness and helping people live healthier, stronger lives. A graduate of Howard University College of Dentistry, where she was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society, Dr. Matthews has led and participated in numerous outreach events, including international mission trips. In July 2020, she received the National Dental Association's Special Recognition Award for her research on reducing the spread of COVID-19 in dental clinics. Her expertise has been featured on Boston's WCVB news channel and in Top Doctor magazine, which praised her patient-centered approach to dentistry. Outside of her work, Dr. Matthews enjoys reading, playing piano, exercising, traveling, and cheering for her favorite basketball teams. If you're interested in finding out your dental fitness score, please visit: here More about the host: Kailey Tse-Harlow is a Chinese-Irish writer born and raised in Boston's Chinatown. She earned her BA in Film and Television Production from Emerson College and her MFA in Creative Writing from Lesley University. Her nonfiction writing has appeared in MIT News, and she is currently at work on her debut novel with support from Tin House. Based in Cambridge, MA, Kailey lives with her partner and two cats. Alongside her writing, she works as a publicist and book marketing manager at Pellien PR, where she helps authors book podcast interviews and plan nationwide book tours. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Ready to move beyond routine dental checkups and unlock your body's full potential? In The Dental Fitness Advantage: How a Healthy Mouth Enhances Total Body Health and Elevates Performance (Playbook Scholars, 2025), Dr. Camesia O. Matthews, a general and sports dentist, introduces the concept of dental fitness, a breakthrough approach that links oral health to whole-body wellness, athletic performance, and even confidence. With clear science and relatable analogies, Dr. Matthews uncovers surprising connections between the mouth and the body: from how oral bacteria influence heart disease and Alzheimer's to why your “bite” affects sleep quality and body balance, and how wearing a custom-fitted sports mouthguard could even boost athletic performance. The book is built on five practical pillars: Prevention, Posture, Protection, Presentation, and Psychology. It also includes a unique assessment tool, the Dental Fitness Score, which helps you track your progress. Each pillar offers simple, actionable steps to help you: Prevent issues before they start Improve sleep, balance, and even muscle strength Guard against avoidable dental injuries Boost confidence with a healthy smile The Dental Fitness Advantage is an empowering guide for athletes, professionals, and anyone seeking to feel, look, and perform at their best, starting with the mouth. About the author: Dr. Camesia O. Matthews is a Massachusetts-based general and certified sports dentist, author, and community advocate. She is passionate about connecting oral health to total-body wellness and helping people live healthier, stronger lives. A graduate of Howard University College of Dentistry, where she was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society, Dr. Matthews has led and participated in numerous outreach events, including international mission trips. In July 2020, she received the National Dental Association's Special Recognition Award for her research on reducing the spread of COVID-19 in dental clinics. Her expertise has been featured on Boston's WCVB news channel and in Top Doctor magazine, which praised her patient-centered approach to dentistry. Outside of her work, Dr. Matthews enjoys reading, playing piano, exercising, traveling, and cheering for her favorite basketball teams. If you're interested in finding out your dental fitness score, please visit: here More about the host: Kailey Tse-Harlow is a Chinese-Irish writer born and raised in Boston's Chinatown. She earned her BA in Film and Television Production from Emerson College and her MFA in Creative Writing from Lesley University. Her nonfiction writing has appeared in MIT News, and she is currently at work on her debut novel with support from Tin House. Based in Cambridge, MA, Kailey lives with her partner and two cats. Alongside her writing, she works as a publicist and book marketing manager at Pellien PR, where she helps authors book podcast interviews and plan nationwide book tours. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ready to move beyond routine dental checkups and unlock your body's full potential? In The Dental Fitness Advantage: How a Healthy Mouth Enhances Total Body Health and Elevates Performance (Playbook Scholars, 2025), Dr. Camesia O. Matthews, a general and sports dentist, introduces the concept of dental fitness, a breakthrough approach that links oral health to whole-body wellness, athletic performance, and even confidence. With clear science and relatable analogies, Dr. Matthews uncovers surprising connections between the mouth and the body: from how oral bacteria influence heart disease and Alzheimer's to why your “bite” affects sleep quality and body balance, and how wearing a custom-fitted sports mouthguard could even boost athletic performance. The book is built on five practical pillars: Prevention, Posture, Protection, Presentation, and Psychology. It also includes a unique assessment tool, the Dental Fitness Score, which helps you track your progress. Each pillar offers simple, actionable steps to help you: Prevent issues before they start Improve sleep, balance, and even muscle strength Guard against avoidable dental injuries Boost confidence with a healthy smile The Dental Fitness Advantage is an empowering guide for athletes, professionals, and anyone seeking to feel, look, and perform at their best, starting with the mouth. About the author: Dr. Camesia O. Matthews is a Massachusetts-based general and certified sports dentist, author, and community advocate. She is passionate about connecting oral health to total-body wellness and helping people live healthier, stronger lives. A graduate of Howard University College of Dentistry, where she was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society, Dr. Matthews has led and participated in numerous outreach events, including international mission trips. In July 2020, she received the National Dental Association's Special Recognition Award for her research on reducing the spread of COVID-19 in dental clinics. Her expertise has been featured on Boston's WCVB news channel and in Top Doctor magazine, which praised her patient-centered approach to dentistry. Outside of her work, Dr. Matthews enjoys reading, playing piano, exercising, traveling, and cheering for her favorite basketball teams. If you're interested in finding out your dental fitness score, please visit: here More about the host: Kailey Tse-Harlow is a Chinese-Irish writer born and raised in Boston's Chinatown. She earned her BA in Film and Television Production from Emerson College and her MFA in Creative Writing from Lesley University. Her nonfiction writing has appeared in MIT News, and she is currently at work on her debut novel with support from Tin House. Based in Cambridge, MA, Kailey lives with her partner and two cats. Alongside her writing, she works as a publicist and book marketing manager at Pellien PR, where she helps authors book podcast interviews and plan nationwide book tours. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/popular-culture

Miriam Robinson is an author who has worked in the world of books and bookshops for over 15 years. Previously the host of podcast My Unlived Life, she holds an MA in Creative Writing from Goldsmiths, University of London and her short fiction has been shortlisted for a Pushcart Prize, the inaugural Pindrop/RA Short Story Prize and the Pat Kavanagh Prize. On this episode of Little Atoms she talks to Neil Denny about her debut novel And Notre Dame is Burning. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if students saw themselves not just as learners, but as world builders, empowered to design, problem-solve, and imagine new possibilities through playful learning? In this episode of the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast, hosts Dr. Cindy Burnett and Dr. Matthew Warwood dive into the dynamic potential of game-based learning and world-building with guests Stephen Slota and Trent Hergenrader. Together, they unpack how treating students as designers—rather than passive recipients of information—fosters creativity, critical thinking, and authentic engagement. Drawing from their experiences as educators and co-authors of The World Building Workshop, Stephen Slota and Trent Hergenrader share insights on leveraging narrative, choice, and playful contexts to deepen learning, regardless of technology access or subject area. The conversation explores the difference between true game-based learning and surface-level gamification, emphasizing the power of agency, narrative, and exploring “messy,” real-world problems. Listeners will gain practical insights on aligning classroom activities with learning goals, infusing creativity, and adopting a facilitator mindset. Whether you're game-curious or an experienced educator, this episode highlights how world building can transform classrooms—and help students make meaningful connections to their own lives.   Guest Bios Stephen Slota Stephen Slota is an educational technologist, learning theorist, and interactive storyteller. He has directed major projects for organizations like CVS Health, Pfizer, and Arizona State University, where he explores how game mechanics and narratives can enhance engagement, creativity, and learning. A former high school biology teacher, Stephen Slota draws on years of classroom experience and research at the University of Connecticut to promote playful learning as a transformative tool in education.   Trent Hergenrader Trent Hergenrader is an Associate Professor of English and Creative Writing, and Director of the Center for World Building and Storytelling at Rochester Institute of Technology. He's the co-editor of "Creative Writing in the Digital Age" and "Creative Writing Innovations," and author of "Collaborative World Building for Writers and Gamers." Trent Hergenrader integrates fiction writing, role-playing, and collaborative design to help students view learning as a creative, participatory process. For more resources and to connect with the guests, visit theworldbuildingworkshop.com.   Be sure to subscribe on your favorite platform and sign up for our Extra Fuel newsletter for more resources and inspiration. Visit FuelingCreativityPodcast.com for more information or email us at questions@fuelingcreativitypodcast.com.

Send us a textEric Vona describes how project-based learning can guide students from broad worries to focused, researchable questions that lead to local solutions. He talks about place-based writing born during remote learning, then shows how journalism practices—finding experts, crafting professional emails, conducting interviews—help students produce credible, public-facing work. Literature becomes a springboard for ethics and action. Pairing Ursula K. Le Guin's The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas with contemporary responses opens honest talk about comfort, cost, and justice—conversations that translate directly to climate realities. Eric also spotlights The Echo, a teen literary magazine turned nonprofit, where students serve as real editors, publish global youth voices, and record audio for accessibility. It's a model of authentic learning that lasts beyond a grading period and builds the very capacities communities need now: curiosity, collaboration, and clear communication.John Eric Vona is a writer and educator living in Tampa, FL. Passionate about conservation and sustainability, he joined the Stories-To-Live-By project so that he could find ways to bring place-centered writing into his work as a high school AP Capstone Seminar and Creative Writing instructor. He is proud to be the advisor to The Echo: Teen Art & Lit Mag, which publishes the work of artists and writers from around the world aged 13-19. You can find The Echo at echolitmag.com/. Other resources mentioned in this episode:University of Oregon's Journalistic Learning Initiative can be found at https://journalisticlearning.org/.To cite this episode:Persohn, L. (Host). (2025,Nov 11). Stories-To-Live-By with John Eric Vona. (Season 6, No. 5) [Audio podcast episode]. In Classroom Caffeine Podcast series. https://www.classroomcaffeine.com/guests. DOI: 10.5240/6C5D-9DA8-6973-6DE9-90CA-1Connect with Classroom Caffeine at www.classroomcaffeine.com or on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

Tod Goldberg is the author of the new novel, Only Way Out, published by Thomas & Mercer. He's also the New York Times bestselling author of 16 books including the acclaimed Gangsterland quartet. His short fiction and essays appeared widely and have been selected in Best American Mystery & Suspense and Best American Essays. Tod is a Professor of Creative Writing at the University of California, Riverside, where he founded and directs the Low Residency MFA in Creative Writing and Writing for the Performing Arts.  Tod joins Barbara DeMarco-Barrett to talk about writing a multiple point of view novel and how his ensemble of characters came together, setting, backstory, writing dialogue, outlining, word quotas, influences, and more. For more information on Writers on Writing and to become a supporter, visit our Patreon page. For a one-time donation, visit Ko-fi. You can find hundreds of past interviews on our website. You can help out the show and indie bookstores by buying books at our bookstore on bookshop.org. It's stocked with titles by our guest authors, as well as our personal favorites. And on Spotify, you'll find an album's worth of typewriter music like what you hear on the show. It's perfect for writing. Look for the artist, Just My Type. Email the show at writersonwritingpodcast@gmail.com. We love to hear from our listeners! (Recorded on November 28, 2025) Host: Barbara DeMarco-BarrettHost: Marrie StoneMusic: Travis Barrett (Stream his music on Spotify, Apple Music, Etc.)

The Author Events Series presents Jaquira Diaz | This Is the Only Kingdom In Conversation with Airea D. Matthews When Maricarmen meets Rey el Cantante, beloved small-time Robin Hood and local musician on the rise, she begins to envision a life beyond the tight-knit community of el Caserío, Puerto Rico - beyond cleaning houses, beyond waiting tables, beyond the constant tug of war between the street hustlers and los camarones. But breaking free proves more difficult than she imagined, and she soon finds herself struggling to make a home for herself, for Rey, his young brother Tito, and eventually, their daughter Nena. Until one fateful day changes everything. Fifteen years later, Maricarmen and Nena find themselves in the middle of a murder investigation as the community that once rallied to support Rey turns against them. Now Nena, a teenager haunted by loss and betrayal and exploring her sexual identity, must learn to fight for herself and her family in a world not always welcoming. For lovers of the Neapolitan novels, This is the Only Kingdom is an immersive and moving portrait of a family - and a community - torn apart by generational grief, and a powerful love letter to mothers, daughters, and the barrios that make them. Born in Puerto Rico, Jaquira Díaz was raised between Humacao, Fajardo, and Miami Beach. She is the author of Ordinary Girls: A Memoir, winner of a Whiting Award, a Florida Book Awards Gold Medal, a Lambda Literary Awards finalist, an American Booksellers Association Indies Introduce Selection, a Barnes & Noble Discover Great New Writers Selection, an Indie Next Pick, a Library Reads pick, and finalist for the B&N Discover Prize. The recipient of the Jeanne Córdova Prize for Lesbian/Queer Nonfiction, the Alonzo Davis Fellowship from VCCA, two Pushcart Prizes, an Elizabeth George Foundation grant, and fellowships from MacDowell, the Kenyon Review, Bread Loaf, Sewanee, the Wisconsin Institute for Creative Writing, and the Black Mountain Institute at UNLV, Díaz has written for The Atlantic, The Guardian, Time Magazine, T: The New York Times Style Magazine, Condé Nast Traveler, and The Fader, and her stories, poems, and essays have been anthologized in The Best American Essays, The Breakbeat Poets Vol. 4: LatiNext, Best American Experimental Writing, and The Pushcart Prize anthology. In 2022, she held the Mina Hohenberg Darden Chair in Creative Writing at Old Dominion University's MFA program and a Pabst Endowed Chair for Master Writers at the Atlantic Center for the Arts. She lives in New York and teaches at Columbia University. Airea D. Matthews received a BA in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania, as well as an MFA from the Helen Zell Writers' Program and an MPA from the Gerald Ford School of Public Policy at the University of Michigan. She is the author of Bread and Circus (Scribner Books, 2023), winner of the Los Angeles Times Book Prize in Poetry, the PEN Oakland/Josephine Miles Award, and was a finalist for the Hurston-Wright Legacy Award. Her poetry collection, Simulacra (Yale University Press, 2017), was selected by Carl Phillips as the winner of the 2016 Yale Series of Younger Poets. Because you love Author Events, please make a donation when you register for this event to ensure that this series continues to inspire Philadelphians. Books will be available for purchase at the library on event night! All tickets are non-refundable. (recorded 10/30/2025)

Four sonnets from 2025 Poetry Contest winner Angie Minkin.Support the show

This the funniest episode to date! NY Time Bestselling author Tod Goldberg joins me for a hilarious interview to celebrate the release of his new book ONLY WAY OUT. Todd is the bestselling author of fifteen books, including the accalaimed GANGSTERLAND series. He founded and directs the MFA in Creative Writing program at the University of California, and holds an MFA in Creative Writing.You might have read one of his books based on the hit TV show, BURN NOTICE. In this interview we talk about California rumors, writing, his career, Game of Thrones, Hollywood, Lazy Boy chairs, robbery, and more hijinks. Oh, and the benefits of being a writer and getting free cookies from fans.Get your copy of ONLY WAY OUT today on Amazon here.Bookmarks:0:00 - Intro4:20 - Go To Concerts With Your Sister10:00 - How Robbery is Great for Writing Thrillers18:00 - Desert Sh!t24:00 - Burn Notice30:00 - Breaking Professional News w/Martin Scorsese38:00 - Tips For Writers and Good Chairs44:00 - Bookstore Bathroom Study in JapanPlease visit my website to get more information: http://jeffclarkofficial.com/

Diana Norma Szokolyai is a writer, interdisciplinary artist, educator and healer. Her books include Disobedient Futures, CREDO: An Anthology of Manifestos & Sourcebook for Creative Writing, Parallel Sparrows, and Roses in the Snow. Her poetry and prose appear in Chariot Press Literary Journal, Critical Romani Studies, and more. A finalist for the inaugural Poet Laureate of Salem, MA, she was also shortlisted for the Bridport Prize in poetry. Working with composers from around the world, her poetry & music collaborations have hit the Creative Commons Hot 100 list and featured on WFMU-FM. Her poetry has been translated into German for the international anthology of Romani poets Die Morgendämmerung der Worte, Moderner Poesie–Atlas der Roma und Sinti. She has performed her poetry with music in many venues including Spoken Word Paris, Outpost 186, Sidewalk Café, Lowell Celebrates Kerouac, and Salem Arts Festival poetry. Her poetry has been supported by grants from the City of Salem Public Art Commission and the Center for Arts and Social Justice at Vermont College of Fine Arts, where she served as an inaugural fellow. She is Co-Founder/Co-Director of Chagall Performance Art Collaborative and serves as Co-Founder/Co-Director of Cambridge Writers' Workshop. She is on faculty at Salem State University and Harborlight Montessori. Passionate about energy healing, she founded Sacred Swan Healing Arts, based in Salem, MA.Follow @sacredswanhealingarts and @diananormasRomani crushes in this episode are Cecilia Woloch, Margit Bangó, and Roby Lakatos SANTA JEZ ABUNDANCE RITUAL FUNDRAISERjezminavonthiele.comromaniholistic.com @romanistanpodcast. Join our Patreon  or donate to Ko-fi.com/romanistan, and please rate, review, and subscribe.  @jezmina.vonthiele @romaniholistic. Secrets of Romani Fortune Telling https://romanistanpodcast.com Email us at romanistanpodcast@gmail.comRomanistan is hosted by Jezmina Von Thiele and Paulina StevensConceived of by Paulina StevensEdited by Viktor PachasWith Music by Viktor PachasAnd Artwork by Elijah VardoSupport the show

Story structure is what makes us love stories in the first place. We love a nice set of bookends. We root for characters who save cats. A hero's journey "there and back again" resonates with the human psyche. In this episode, Clare and Hannah talk about several kinds of story structures, including Three-Act, Five-Act, Chiastic, Save the Cat, and the Hero's Journey. Some of the books we mention in this episode:The Heroine's Journey by Gail CarrigerSave the Cat! by Blake SnyderScreenplay by Syd FieldThe Writer's Journey by Christopher VoglerThe Hero With a Thousand Faces by Joseph CampbellYou can pick up these books and many more at our Bookshop.org affiliate link. You can support your favorite nerdy mother-daughter podcast, get a discount on your purchase, plus support independent bookstores everywhere! Thank you!We'd love to hear your thoughts! Click here to send us a text message!Support the showWe provide links and other resources to help you find and enjoy the things we talked about on this episode! Note that some of these may include “affiliate” links to books and other products. When you click through and purchase, the price of the item is the same for you. In fact, most of the time you'll get a discount! But the company gives us a little somethin' somethin' to say “thanks” for sending you their way! This helps you enjoy the website and the podcast EVEN MORE by eliminating intrusive advertisements. Thanks for clicking! Theme music: “Splanchnics Riff” composed and performed by Clare T. Walker Clare is an independent author who would love it if you checked out her books! If you like exciting thrillers featuring an “everyman” hero who rises to his or her full potential in the face of peril—-you might enjoy The Keys of Death. It's a veterinary medical thriller about a small-town animal doctor who gets tangled up in a whistle-blowing scheme against a big biotech company. Or, if you prefer shorter fiction, try Startling Figures, a collection of three paranormal urban fantasy stories.

This is storytelling at its finest. We could study it to learn about almost any aspect of writing, but this week, Melanie and I are highlighting the complexity and nuance of the main character. He's a passive character, which makes for an especially interesting study of both the hero's monologue and the shadow. If you've not seen THE HOLDOVERS yet, watch it as a gift to yourself this holiday season. You won't be disappointed. We'll be back in January  with a new episode. Until then, we'll be sharing some of our favourite episodes from the vault! Happy Holidays, everyone! And Happy New Year! - V. Acquire the power to write a bestselling story at storynerd.ca/courses For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.

Only Way Out: A Novel by Author Tod Goldberg Is out now! amazon.com or bookstores near you! James Lott Jr gets to chat to the "other" best Selling Author in the family! Tod Goldberg is the New York Times bestselling author of over a dozen books of fiction, including The Low Desert: Gangster Stories, Gangsterland, a finalist for the Hammett Prize, Gangster Nation, The House of Secrets, which he co-authored with Brad Meltzer, and Living Dead Girl, a finalist for the Los Angeles Times Book Prize. His essays, nonfiction, and criticism appear widely, including in the Los Angeles Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal, as well as Best American Essays, and have earned five Nevada Press Association Awards. He is also the cohost, along with Rider Strong and Julia Pistell, of the popular podcast Literary Disco. Goldberg is a Professor of Creative Writing at the University of California, Riverside, where founded and directs the Low Residency MFA program in Creative Writing & Writing for the Performing Arts. You can follow him on Twitter and Instagram @todgoldberg and on Facebook at facebook.com/todgoldberg or visit todgoldberg.com

Poems from Henry Morgenthau III and past Morgenthau Prize winners Dennis Lee, Mark Elber, and Winifred Hughes.Support the show

David Bryan speaks with author Steve Schlam about his debut novel, 'The Harvesting of Haystacks Cain.' They explore the inspiration behind the book, which originated from a dream, and delve into the character development of the protagonist, Herschel "Haystacks" Kane. Schlam discusses the themes of identity, empathy, and the writing process, as well as his literary influences, including Faulkner and Joyce. The conversation also touches on the importance of empathy in storytelling and Schlam's reflections on his future writing projects."Steve Schlam first gained entry to the City of Words through the doors of the public library in Brooklyn, New York, where he was born and spent a good part of his childhood; and has maintained his residency ever since while living in cities and towns across the United States and in Mexico. An actor as well as an author, he has performed on stages in all the places he has called home, and earned a Master's Degree in Creative Writing and English under the tutelage of Joseph Heller, renowned author of "Catch-22." He lives currently in Southern California in a pretty little Craftsman bungalow with orange and lemon trees growing in the backyard, in the company of his wife, Liora. His debut novel, "The Harvesting of Haystacks Kane," was released in March 2024."

Award-winning poet Mary Jean Chan on emotional truth in contemporary poetry, the imagery and juxtaposition that hold big feelings on the page, writing queerness, family and grief with care, and what submissions and prize judging reveal about poems that endure.You'll learn:Why emotional truth sits at the centre of Mary Jean's work and how you can use it as a compass in your own poems.How to move from a single striking line into a finished poem by working on rhythm, line breaks, and imagery.What juxtaposition and understatement can do for poems about grief and other intense subjects (and how to avoid tipping into melodrama).How to decide whether a memory or idea belongs in a poem, a short story, or another form.Ways to write about queerness, family, and other vulnerable themes while setting boundaries that protect your relationships and your wellbeing.How to approach submissions, rejections, and prize lists so they support a long-term poetry practice rather than define your worth.What reading and judging for major prizes can teach you about sentences, images, and books that stand out in a crowded field.How to sustain a poetry life alongside teaching, study, and care by staying attentive to everyday moments and small pockets of time.Resources and Links:

In this intimate conversation recorded at Shakespeare and Company, novelist Miriam Robinson joins Adam Biles to discuss her remarkable debut, And Notre Dame Is Burning. Together, they explore the novel's fractured structure and the emotional aftermath of betrayal, loss, and motherhood. Robinson reflects on her protagonist Esther—a woman piecing together the wreckage of a marriage through letters and fragments—as well as on grief, storytelling, and the disorientation of time. From the shadow of Notre Dame to the uncertainty of rebuilding a life, Robinson examines how women navigate love, autonomy, and the stories they tell themselves. Touching on subjects from miscarriage and memory to patriarchy and the politics of intimacy, this conversation balances literary craft with raw honesty.Buy And Notre Dame Is Burning: https://www.shakespeareandcompany.com/books/and-notre-dame-is-burning*Miriam Robinson is an author who has worked in the world of books and bookshops for over 15 years. Previously the host of podcast My Unlived Life, she holds an MA in Creative Writing from Goldsmiths, University of London and her short fiction has been shortlisted for a Pushcart Prize, the inaugural Pindrop/RA Short Story Prize and the Pat Kavanagh Prize. Originally from Colorado, Miriam lives in East London with her daughter and their six-toed cat Astrid.Adam Biles is Literary Director at Shakespeare and Company.Listen to Alex Freiman's latest EP, In The Beginning: https://open.spotify.com/album/5iZYPMCUnG7xiCtsFCBlVa?si=h5x3FK1URq6SwH9Kb_SO3w Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Rewrite Your Site worth it? That's the question anyone has when they invest in a course or program: Will I get the return on investment financially, emotionally, energetically, educationally? And is the price worth the value of what's being offered? In this episode, I'm comparing Rewrite Your Site to all the other ways you can work with me—from DIY courses to done-for-you website copywriting to done-with-you strategy sessions and copy coaching retainers—so you can make an informed decision about whether this program is right for you.Plus, I'm sharing a special time-sensitive offer to get extra time on the early bird bonuses—submit your homepage for review by end of day November 28th and I'll review your homepage sometime this week. Then you get 48  hours after receiving your video review to decide if you want to join with all those Early Bird bonuses intact.Wait, what does that mean? Well, today IS Thanksgiving in the U.S., and I'm not working. But, let's say I review your site on Monday Dec. 1 and email your review over to you. You'll have until end of day on Dec. 3rd to enroll in Rewrite Your Site and get the Early Bird Bonuses still. Sound good?Sounds dreamy to me.Click here to submit your homepage for review: https://erinollila.com/rys-homepage-review _____________________________________________I hope you'll join me in Rewrite Your Site, an 8-week website copywriting program for small business owners, service providers, and creatives.The program kicks off on 1/6/26 and goes through to the end of February, but if you join before 11/27/25, you get access to three huge bonuses AND you can join our pre-gaming party in December.See all details and join us here: https://erinollila.com/rewrite-your-site/_____________________________________________  EPISODE 175.Read the show notes and view the full transcript here: Coming soon!______________________________________________Here's the info on your host, Erin OllilaErin Ollila believes in the power of words and how a message can inform – and even transform – its intended audience. She graduated from Fairfield University with an M.F.A. in Creative Writing, and went on to co-found Spry, an award-winning online literary journal.When Erin's not helping her clients understand their website data or improve their website copy, you can catch her hosting the Talk Copy to Me podcast and guesting on shows such as Profit is a Choice, Mindful Marketing, The Power in Purpose, and Business-First Creatives.Stay in touch with Erin Ollila, SEO website copywriter:• Learn more about my VIP intensive options or just book a strategy session to get started right away• Visit Erin's website to learn more about her business, services, and products

Enrollment for Rewrite Your Site is open, and if you join by 11:59pm EST on November 27th, you get three early bird bonuses that aren't available in the same form after that date. I also know that sometimes bonuses can feel like fluff. You know, just extra stuff thrown in to make an offer look better. But these three bonuses are actually some of the most valuable parts of the entire program, and I'm breaking down exactly why that is in this episode of Talk Copy to Me.You'll learn all about the onboarding strategy session, the launch prep and site review call, and the featured website promotion. These aren't just nice-to-haves—they're things that make the difference between finishing with a good website and finishing with a great website that actually gets seen and brings you clients. If you've been on the fence, these bonuses are a huge reason to join now instead of waiting._____________________________________________I hope you'll join me in Rewrite Your Site, an 8-week website copywriting program for small business owners, service providers, and creatives.The program kicks off on 1/6/26 and goes through to the end of February, but if you join before 11/27/25, you get access to three huge bonuses AND you can join our pre-gaming party in December.See all details and join us here: https://erinollila.com/rewrite-your-site/_____________________________________________  EPISODE 174.Read the show notes and view the full transcript here: Coming soon!______________________________________________Here's the info on your host, Erin OllilaErin Ollila believes in the power of words and how a message can inform – and even transform – its intended audience. She graduated from Fairfield University with an M.F.A. in Creative Writing, and went on to co-found Spry, an award-winning online literary journal.When Erin's not helping her clients understand their website data or improve their website copy, you can catch her hosting the Talk Copy to Me podcast and guesting on shows such as Profit is a Choice, Mindful Marketing, The Power in Purpose, and Business-First Creatives.Stay in touch with Erin Ollila, SEO website copywriter:• Learn more about my VIP intensive options or just book a strategy session to get started right away• Visit Erin's website to learn more about her business, services, and products

You've been hearing me talk about Rewrite Your Site—the 8-week program that helps you rewrite your website with structure and support. But what does that actually look like? In this Talk Copy to Me episode, I'm walking you through it week by week so you know exactly what to expect if you join.I'm covering how the program is structured, the optional December pre-party that helps you get ahead, and then the full breakdown of weeks one through eight. This program is structured yet supportive—you're doing the work, but you're not doing it alone. Quick reminder: Enrollment is open now with early bird bonuses through November 27th._____________________________________________I hope you'll join me in Rewrite Your Site, an 8-week website copywriting program for small business owners, service providers, and creatives.The program kicks off on 1/6/26 and goes through to the end of February, but if you join before 11/27/25, you get access to three huge bonuses AND you can join our pre-gaming party in December.See all details and join us here: https://erinollila.com/rewrite-your-site/_____________________________________________  EPISODE 173.Read the show notes and view the full transcript here: Coming soon!______________________________________________Here's the info on your host, Erin OllilaErin Ollila believes in the power of words and how a message can inform – and even transform – its intended audience. She graduated from Fairfield University with an M.F.A. in Creative Writing, and went on to co-found Spry, an award-winning online literary journal.When Erin's not helping her clients understand their website data or improve their website copy, you can catch her hosting the Talk Copy to Me podcast and guesting on shows such as Profit is a Choice, Mindful Marketing, The Power in Purpose, and Business-First Creatives.Stay in touch with Erin Ollila, SEO website copywriter:• Learn more about my VIP intensive options or just book a strategy session to get started right away• Visit Erin's website to learn more about her business, services, and products

This week on The Hamilton Review Podcast, we are excited to have Peter and Clara Hamilton on the show! In this episode, Peter and Clara are sharing all about the launch of their brand new company, Loam. Loam is architecturally inspired heirloom wood toy blocks, all natural and sustainably sourced and fully made in the USA. You will thoroughly enjoy Peter and Clara's personal story (from Peter's Architectural career, Clara's career in Educational Counseling and balancing their four children with very limited screen time) and how they created Loam. Loam is designed to nurture creativity, imagination,and mindfulness through open-ended, screen-free play. Loam is inspired by the timeless elegance of beautiful materials and craftsmanship. It's a generous gift that connects generations through design, imagination, and tactile joy. Enjoy this inspiring conversation and share it with your friends and family! Peter Hamilton, founder of Loam, was born and raised in Santa Monica, California, studied Creative Writing and Art at Pepperdine University, and has a Master's Degree in Architecture from the University of Oregon. Peter is a licensed architect, and he has owned his own architecture office, Studio Peter Hamilton, for eight years. In his free time, Peter enjoys studying art books, planting trees, and coaching his kids' baseball teams.   Clara Hamilton, wife of Peter and mother of their four children, is a full-time mother and home educator. Clara was raised in Culver City, California, studied Sports Medicine at Pepperdine University and has a Master's Degree in Educational Counseling, and before staying home to care for their children, she served twelve years as a high school teacher, counselor, and administrator in both public and independent schools. In her free time, Clara enjoys reading with her kids, sewing, or spending time outside with her family. How to contact Peter and Clara Hamilton:   Loam Blocks website   Loam Blocks on Instagram   Studio Peter Hamilton   How to contact Dr. Bob: Dr. Bob on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChztMVtPCLJkiXvv7H5tpDQ Dr. Bob on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drroberthamilton/ Dr. Bob on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bob.hamilton.1656 Dr. Bob's Seven Secrets Of The Newborn website: https://7secretsofthenewborn.com/ Dr. Bob's website: https://roberthamiltonmd.com/ Pacific Ocean Pediatrics: http://www.pacificoceanpediatrics.com/    

"Do you think I can really write my own website copy? I'm not a copywriter. What if it's bad?" I get why people ask this. There's an entire industry telling you that you need to hire a professional copywriter and that DIY copy always ends up sounding wrong. But here's what I actually believe: You can absolutely write your own website copy. The problem isn't that you can't write—it's that you don't have a system for getting it out of your head in a clear and strategic way.In this episode, I'm breaking down why you're a great choice of person to write your copy, what makes DIY copy work, and what you don't need to be successful. This is a short episode about my group program Rewrite Your Site, which gives you the framework, checkpoints, and expert editing you need to write your own website copy without drowning in overwhelm or uncertainty._____________________________________________I hope you'll join me in Rewrite Your Site, an 8-week website copywriting program for small business owners, service providers, and creatives.The program kicks off on 1/6/26 and goes through to the end of February, but if you join before 11/27/25, you get access to three huge bonuses AND you can join our pre-gaming party in December.See all details and join us here: https://erinollila.com/rewrite-your-site/_____________________________________________  EPISODE 172.Read the show notes and view the full transcript here: Coming soon!______________________________________________Here's the info on your host, Erin OllilaErin Ollila believes in the power of words and how a message can inform – and even transform – its intended audience. She graduated from Fairfield University with an M.F.A. in Creative Writing, and went on to co-found Spry, an award-winning online literary journal.When Erin's not helping her clients understand their website data or improve their website copy, you can catch her hosting the Talk Copy to Me podcast and guesting on shows such as Profit is a Choice, Mindful Marketing, The Power in Purpose, and Business-First Creatives.Stay in touch with Erin Ollila, SEO website copywriter:• Learn more about my VIP intensive options or just book a strategy session to get started right away• Visit Erin's website to learn more about her business, services, and products

Do you want to connect deeper with your audience through content? And with AI, our trust levels are dropping… We have David Ebner on ep 303 of The Content Queen Podcast to help you tell better stories in your content, especially in an AI-driven world where trust and human connection matter more than ever.If you're ready to create content that's remembered (not just scrolled past), this is the episode for you!If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share this on your Instagram stories and tag us @contentqueenmariah and @the_content_workshop.⁠⁠⁠⁠LEARN THE DETAILS OF A CONTENT STRATEGY WITH MY FREE AUDIO GUIDE⁠⁠⁠  KEY EPISODE TAKEAWAYS

Send us a textIn this enchanting episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, we welcome the talented author Bria Rose, known for her captivating dark romance fairytale retellings. Bria shares her journey from a high school writer to a self-published author, detailing her debut novel, "Her Dark Promise," a unique twist on the classic Beauty and the Beast story where Belle takes on the role of the beast. She discusses her creative process, the challenges of indie publishing, and how her experiences working at Disney have influenced her storytelling. Bria also opens up about her love for dark romance, the depth it brings to characters, and her upcoming projects, including a spicy Pinocchio retelling and an exciting collaboration with a publishing company. Tune in for a delightful conversation filled with inspiration, creativity, and insights into the world of writing. Discover more about Bria and her work at www.authorbriarose.com.

Your website needs a complete rewrite. The homepage rambles. Your services page doesn't actually explain what you do. Your about page feels stiff and awkward. Maybe you have way too much content, or maybe you don't have nearly enough.But here's the bigger problem—you have no idea where to start. Do you rewrite the homepage first? Fix the services pages? Add testimonials? Create individual service pages? The whole thing feels like a massive, tangled project, and you're stuck wondering which thread to pull without making everything worse. So you close the tab and tell yourself you'll deal with it later. But later never comes.If that's you—if you've been staring at your website feeling overwhelmed and stuck—this episode is for you.Today I'm opening enrollment for Rewrite Your Site, my 8-week group program that helps you confidently write website copy that sounds like you and actually converts. This isn't another course you'll buy and never finish. It's a structured, supported program where you show up, do the work, and eight weeks later you have a complete website you're proud of.In this episode of Talk Copy to Me, I'm walking you through exactly what's inside the program, how it works week by week, who it's for (and who it's not for), the Early Bird bonuses available through November 27th, and why I believe you can write your own website copy—you just need the right guidance, accountability, and editing support to get it done.Your website has been on your to-do list long enough. Let's finally finish it together._____________________________________________  EPISODE 171.Read the show notes and view the full transcript here: ______________________________________________Here's the info on your host, Erin OllilaErin Ollila believes in the power of words and how a message can inform – and even transform – its intended audience. She graduated from Fairfield University with an M.F.A. in Creative Writing, and went on to co-found Spry, an award-winning online literary journal.When Erin's not helping her clients understand their website data or improve their website copy, you can catch her hosting the Talk Copy to Me podcast and guesting on shows such as Profit is a Choice, Mindful Marketing, The Power in Purpose, and Business-First Creatives.Stay in touch with Erin Ollila, SEO website copywriter:• Learn more about my VIP intensive options or just book a strategy session to get started right away• Visit Erin's website to learn more about her business, services, and products_____________________________________________

Do you love the dark?  Do you yearn for sunset and the amber glow of a fire with the night growing deeper, more inspiring all around you?  Most of us don't - though our ancestors through all of history have lived by firelight, moonlight, starlight... until the modern era of light at the flick of a switch.  But there's a world out there of sheer, unadulterated magic that is only revealed when we put aside the lights and the phones and the torches and step out into the night  - as this week's guest has done. Leigh Ann Henion is the New York Times bestselling author of Night Magic: Adventures Among Glowworms, Moon Gardens, and Other Marvels of the Dark and Phenomenal: A Hesitant Adventurer's Search for Wonder in the Natural World. Her writing has appeared in Smithsonian, National Geographic, The Washington Post, Backpacker, The American Scholar, and a variety of other publications. She is a former Alicia Patterson Fellow, and her work has been supported by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation. Henion lives in Boone, North Carolina.  Wall Street Journal says of this book. "Lovely…truly inspired…and very clever…An appreciation of nature's nocturnal organisms can help us reset our relationship with the night…That's the gift of Night Magic: It may make you think differently about the night."Leigh Ann's Website https://leighannhenion.com/Night Magic book (UK): https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/night-magic-leigh-ann-henion/7832118

In 2022, Anne made the bold and audacious decision to leave her job as a tenured English professor, sell all her earthly possessions and embark on a European adventure. In this episode, I am going to talk to Anne about her decision to reset her life and find a new way of being in the world.  She is the author of the viral Substack newsletter Audacious Women, Creative Lives, where she writes about her transition from an academic in the US to a creative life in the UK. She has just completed a Master's in Creative Writing at the University of Manchester. She is now working towards her life-long dream of publishing a novel, while coaching writers and hosting retreats. She is also the author/editor of seven books from her 23-year career as a literature professor. She wrote two critically acclaimed books published by W. W. Norton: Constance Fenimore Woolson: Portrait of a Lady Novelist (2016)  reviewed on the cover of NY Times Book Review  and Meg, Jo, Beth, Amy: The Story of Little Women and Why It Still Matters (2018). This was voted best books of the year by Library Journal.  Anne received four National Endowment for the Humanities awards, two for public scholarship. She also has appeared on NPR, BBC Radio, and CBS Sunday Morning, and has bylines in many paces, including the Washington Post and Literary Hub.   Chart Your Career Instagram: @chartyourcareerpodcast Ellen Fondiler, Career & Business Strategist: ellenfondiler.com, IG: @elfondiler  

Mischa Willett is a poet and writing professor. He is the Director of the Whitworth Writers' Workshop MFA in Creative Writing at Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington. In this episode, Mischa Willett and Jonathan Rogers talk about MFA programs, failure as a means of getting work done, and apology letters written by robots. This episode is sponsored by The Habit Writer Development Cohorts. Join "Cohort Week Zero" a free mini-class, TheHabit.co/Development.Support the show: https://therabbitroom.givingfuel.com/memberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.