Creativity, Non Fiction, Personal Development, Writers on Writing

Dec 24: Someday Is Today: 22 Simple, Actionable Ways to Propel Your Creative Life

Stop making excuses. Stop procrastinating. Matthew Dicks shares how.

Podcast SOMEDAY IS TODAY with Matthew Dicks

What … you’re too busy? You have too much on your plate? You’re too tired, spread thin, and up to your elbows in alligators?

Guessing at some time that most of us have used excuses to procrastinate on what we “say” we really want to do.

Matthew Dicks says: If not today, then when?

He’s a husband, father of six, school teacher, wedding band player, corporate communications consultant, creative coach, Moth GrandSLAM champ, humorist, advice columnist, and more.

We share many of Matthew’s tips, including how to find black holes in your day and go from making excuses to making someday, today!

Meet Matthew Dicks

Matthew Dicks is a multiple-winner of the Moth GrandSLAM Story Competitions. His other books include Stories Sell – podcast. And Storyworthy – podcast. Today we discuss Someday is Today: 22 Simple, Actionable Ways to Propel Your Creative Life

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Adventure, Biography, Journalism, Non Fiction

Dec 17: Behind Every Successful Man (Or Pirate) There’s A Woman

The Pirate’s Wife – The Remarkable True Story of Sarah Kidd

When Captain William Kidd was arrested for piracy and murder, his wife, Sarah, fought tirelessly to save him and reclaim their confiscated fortune. Left destitute after his execution, Sarah navigated the treacherous waters of colonial New York society, reinventing herself and ultimately building a new life from the ruins of scandal and tragedy.

Today we learn how author Daphne Palmer Geanacopoulos approached this forgotten story with meticulous historical research, piecing together Sarah’s life from scattered court documents, property records, and colonial archives. Daphne’s intimate storytelling shines a light on a remarkable woman who deserves recognition in her own right—not merely as the wife of a famous pirate, but as a survivor and a force to be reckoned with in early American history.

About Daphne Palmer Geanacopoulos

The Pirate’s Wife – The Remarkable True Story of Sarah Kidd is Daphne Palmer Geanacopoulos’ second book (narrative nonfiction). A recognized historian, Daphne is also a journalist and author who has spent over 15 years pursuing her passion for pirates, researching not just them and their lives, but also their wives.  Dr. Geanacopoulos writes on history, business, science, health, fitness, education, museums, parenting, philanthropy, and lifestyles and has been featured in many major outlets, including The New York Times, the Washington Post, and Southern Living.

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Fiction, Thriller, Writers on Writing

Dec 10: TEQUILA – A Story of Success, Love, & Violence with Tim Reuben

Suspense novel introduces young lawyer Brian Youngam

Tequila A Story of Success, Love, and Violence with author Tim Reuben

What happens when ambition, love, and lethal violence collide in the high-stakes world of tequila production?

Author and legal entrepreneur Tim Reuben joins us to talk about his powerful debut novel TEQUILA: A Story of Success, Love, & Violence, an epic tale set against the real-world landscape of Mexico’s booming tequila industry. It’s a story of risk, loyalty, betrayal – and the cost of chasing greatness.

We discuss craft, character, culture, and the line between success and destruction. Who Tim’s favorite character is, and why he made his lead antagonist absolutely irredeemable.

Tim also shares why writing his first fiction book was like “climbing a mountain“, from the highs and the thrills to the lows; and how he pushed through self-doubt.

Meet Tim Reuben

Novelist, Tim Reuben, is a veteran civil litigation attorney, a mediator, and a temporary judge in the LA courts. He founded his own law firm more than 30 years ago, and still manages the practice, while publishing widely on topics of law and society. Inspired by his law and travel experiences, and an appreciation of spirits, Reuben introduces his first novel, TEQUILA: A Story of Success, Love, & Violence, and has plans for at least two more-family saga suspense novels featuring protagonist, Brian Youngman.

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Craft of Writing, Creativity, Memoir, Non Fiction

Dec 03: What Makes A Story? A Day, A Life, A Year. And You.

#1 New York Times bestselling author shares You The Story: A Writer’s Guide to Craft Through Memory

You the Story with author Ruta Sepetys

During the pandemic, award-winning historical fiction author Ruta Sepetys turned inward.

“I discovered,” she says, “that the most meaningful aspects [of story] dwell within what I call the wave. That wave is heartbreak, hope, humor, and humiliation.”

We all experience those feelings. And in You The Story: A Writer’s Guide to Craft Through Memory, we explore how small moments can become powerful stories. We look at the elements of story construction, and how to tap into your emotions, find gems in humor, and discover rhythm from simple everyday things such as the way someone speaks. We also share how to discover your voice, your vision, your inspiration, and much more about storytelling.

It is less about where we have traveled or worked or if we have experienced grand adventures,” says Ruta. “It is more about the interior landscape. And through that, we all have a story.”

Meet Ruta Sepetys

An internationally acclaimed, #1 New York Times bestselling author of historical fiction, Ruta Sepetys is a Carnegie Medal Finalist; her books have won or been shortlisted for over 40 awards. Ruta’s work on human resilience garnered invitations to speak at NATO, the European Parliament, the U.S. Capitol, the Library of Congress, and Embassies worldwide. Ruta Sepetys was presented the Cross of the Knight of the Order by the President of Lithuania for her contributions to education and memory preservation. She was also honored with a postage stamp containing her image. You The Story: A Writer’s Guide to Craft Through Memory is Ruta’s first nonfiction book.

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Fiction, Humor, Memoir, Writers on Writing

Nov 26: Gary Lippman with A Literary Wish List

From fantastical to deeply personal, Lippman explores wishes in I Wish, Therefore I Am

I Wish, Therefore I Am with author Gary Lippman

Gary Lippman is a writer unafraid to take risks, who challenges both himself and his readers, while exploring the big (and little) questions of life.

Today, we dive into the nature of wishes with I Wish, Therefore I Am; or, This Here Is a List of Humble Appeals to Dame Fortune.

Gary reveals why he often chooses to shatter traditional narrative forms and bend genres. We discuss some of the writers and mentors who have helped shape his vision. We talk form, structure, and storytelling – sharing some of the wishes from the book, from anxieties, self-doubt, and self-help desires, to love and rewards. And we discover what Gary learned about himself while writing I Wish Therefore I Am.

Meet Gary Lippman

Gary Lippman is an author, journalist, and cultural commentator known for his inventive storytelling and keen eye for the eccentricities of human nature. His work has appeared in The New York Times, Rolling Stone, Vice, and numerous literary journals. His novel, Set the Controls for the Heart of Sharon Tate, won praise for its originality and darkly comic voice. Lippman’s latest book, I Wish, therefore I Am; or, This Here Is a List of Humble Appeals to Dame Fortune, showcases his signature blend of humor, insight, and genre-bending.

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Fiction, Thriller, Writers on Writing

Nov 19: Kiss Her Goodbye, A Novel with Lisa Gardner

Can Frankie Elkin Find a Young Afghan Refugee in Time?

Kiss Her Goodbye with author Lisa Gardner

It’s always a great conversation with Lisa Gardner. As one of America’s leading thriller writers, Lisa loves to discuss the craft of writing. She also shares unique and interesting stories gathered from the extensive research she does to make her stories authentic.

When Frankie Elkin sets out to save an entire family from its haunting past in Kiss Her Goodbye, every decision could lead to disaster, as love and loss collide.

We discuss the emotional and moral undercurrents of Lisa Gardner’s Kiss Her Goodbye and hear some of the stories behind the story. We also learn how the concept for Kiss Her Goodbye was sparked by a conversation with strangers, while she was on sabbatical. And, Lisa shares some of the research that left her astonished.

Meet Lisa Gardner

Lisa Gardner, a #1 New York Times bestselling thriller novelist, has transformed her interest in police procedure and criminal minds into a streak of internationally acclaimed novels, published across 30 countries. She’s also had four books become TV movies (At the Midnight Hour; The Perfect Husband; The Survivors Club; Hide). Lisa’s books have received awards from across the globe. Her novel, The Neighbor, won Best Hardcover Novel from the International Thriller Writers, and the Grand Prix des Lectrices de Elle in France. She was also recognized with the Daphne du Maurier Award in 2000 for The Other Daughter.

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Adventure, Animals, Children's Fiction, Fiction, Writers on Writing

Nov 12: The Runaway Who Won the Hearts of New Orleans with Kaye Courington

SCRIM: A New Orleans Story of Resilience & Rescue – A True Story

Author Kaye Courington with SCRIM: A New Orleans Story of Resilience & Rescue

Moving like a ghost on the streets of New Orleans a skinny, scruffy, 17lb terrier captivated a city and made headlines around the world from the Washington Post and New Yorker, to the Daily News in London.

For months, SCRIM eluded capture. He survived gun shots, freezing weather, jumping from a second storey window, and much more.

Author and animal advocate, Kaye Courington, shares Scrim’s incredible journey, from living rough on Louisiana’s busy streets to finally settling in a loving forever home. A truly heartwarming story of courage and resilience, and how a community rallied together on a rescue mission that became a national sensation.

Meet Kaye Courington

Kaye Courington is a highly recognized, award-winning New Orleans attorney and the debut author of SCRIM: The Dog Who Captured New Orleans’ Heart. A lifelong advocate for animal welfare, she’s worked tirelessly to promote rescue, rehabilitation, and responsible adoption. Kaye is donating all author royalties of SCRIM to local animal rescues.

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Fiction, Suspense, Thriller, Writers on Writing

Nov 05: The Girl From Devil’s Lake with NYT Bestselling Author J. A. Jance

Joanna Brady Hunts a Serial Killer Hiding in Plain Sight

J. A. Jance Author of The Girl From Devil’s Lake, A Brady Novel of Suspense

THE GIRL FROM DEVIL’S LAKE is J. A. Jance’s 21st Joanna Brady novel. And it’s Brady’s biggest, most challenging case yet. As she digs into the investigation of a body discovered in the Arizona desert, Joanna Brady realizes this murder is just one piece of a much bigger puzzle, involving crimes that span decades, and even countries.

We discuss the story, characters, and how J. A. Jance captures the mind of a serial killer. J. A. also shares some of the challenges of writing while dealing with real life. Just turned 81 years old, J. A. cares for her husband, walks 10,000 steps per day — and is writing a new novel while promoting THE GIRL FROM DEVIL’S LAKE, and waiting on Ali Reynolds’ edits to come back from her publisher in New York. All without an assistant. Whew!

Meet Bestselling Suspense Author J.A. Jance

J. A. JANCE is the New York Times bestselling author of the J. P. Beaumont series, the Joanna Brady series, the Ali Reynolds series, six thrillers about the Walker Family, and one volume of poetry. In total, she’s written 70 books. Born in South Dakota and brought up in Bisbee, Arizona, Jance lives with her husband around Seattle, Washington. THE GIRL FROM DEVIL’S LAKE.

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Non Fiction, Self-help

Oct 29: How to Navigate Eldercare Options for Your Loved Ones with Paula Almgren

Eldercare The Rules: Navigating the Legal, Financial, Medical, Housing, and Care Maze

Eldercare the Rules with author Paula Almgren

If your parents suddenly need eldercare, will you know where to begin? Where will you find credible resources, legal advice, and other important caregiver information? Do you even know your parents’ preferences concerning care and end-of-life issues?

Paula Almgren is an expert on eldercare and her new book, Eldercare The Rules: Navigating the Legal, Financial, Medical, Housing, and Care Maze, provides a solid blueprint to help guide you through the confusion.

Today, we share when and how to begin sensitive conversations with parents and other family members. We explore facts and helpful resources. Touch on recent Medicare changes, spousal military care benefits, how to avoid burnout, and more.

Meet Paula Almgren

Paula K. Almgren has been in legal practice for 20 years, and is the founder of Berkshire Law Group. Inspired by Paula’s own journey caring for her mother, the firm’s scope and size has expanded to include innovative programs that combine estate planning and asset protection with care advocacy and coaching for seniors and their families. Paula Almgren’s new book shares her expert professional advice, along with personal experience: Eldercare The Rules: Navigating the Legal, Financial, Medical, Housing, and Care Maze.

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Fiction, Suspense, Thriller, Writers on Writing

Oct 22: Joe Hart’s Novel Will Make You Question How Well You Know Your Lover

I Become Her — A Thriller

I Become Her with author Joe Hart

When Imogen Carmichael’s honeymoon shifts from bliss to a nightmare in the blink of an eye, paranoia builds and trust unravels. Is Imogen going crazy, or is something more sinister going on?

Master of psychological suspense, Joe Hart, joins us to discuss I Become Her.

We explore the story behind a honeymoon gone disastrously wrong. Joe shares how he developed the voice of a strong female protagonist, and some of the most challenging aspects of writing a thriller.

We also look at how memories — factual or dramatized — often shape how we see the truth. And, Joe shares insight into how he’s successfully crossed genres, something many authors struggle to do.

Meet Joe Hart

Joe Hart is an Edgar Award–winning and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of 17 novels, including Or Else, The River Is Dark, Obscura, and The Last Girl. He’s also written several novella’s and dozens of short stories. Known for his taut pacing and psychological depth, Hart crafts stories that keep readers on edge until the final page. He lives in Minnesota with his family and continues to explore the darker side of human nature through fiction.

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