#46 - Echoes of Life in Literature: Deborah Jenkins on 'Winter Lights'
Release Date: 11/14/2023
#70 - Worthy: Jane Boulware on Overcoming Doubt and Achieving Success
Books & Looks
Jane Boulware is a retired business executive and the author of "Worthy," a memoir chronicling her unconventional path from rural Iowa to the corner office at Microsoft. With a forestry degree from Iowa State University and an MBA, Jane's career journey spans roles at Kimberly-Clark, where she played a pivotal part in the Huggies vs. Pampers brand battle, and Microsoft, where she navigated the challenges of a male-dominated tech industry to become one of the few female Corporate Vice Presidents. Discussed in this Episode: The importance of resilience and self-worth in overcoming personal and...
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#69 - Lies, Love & Leaky Roofs: Amy Jo Burns Discusses Mercury
Books & Looks
Amy Jo Burns is the acclaimed author of the novel Mercury, a captivating story that delves into the complex dynamics of a family of roofers in the small town of Mercury, Pennsylvania. With a background in industrial and labor relations from Cornell University, Amy Jo brings a unique perspective to her storytelling, crafting richly layered characters and exploring themes of secrets, redemption, and the power of choice. Discussed in this Episode: The inspiration behind Mercury and the significance of the roofing profession Strategies for creating a vivid sense of place and capturing small-town...
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#68 - Uncovering Turkey's Seismic Secrets with Geologist D.J. Green
Books & Looks
D.J. Green is the acclaimed author of "No More Empty Spaces," a captivating novel that intertwines geology, family dynamics, and the rich history of Turkey. Drawing from her extensive career as a geologist, D.J. brings authenticity and depth to her storytelling, transporting readers to the remote mountains of Anatolia where an American engineer grapples with both professional challenges and personal growth. Beyond her literary pursuits, D.J. has over three decades of experience as a field geologist, working in more than 35 states and traveling extensively in Turkey. Discussed in this Episode: ...
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#67 - Beyond Meditation: Oren Jay Sofer on Transforming Your Life
Books & Looks
Oren Jay Sofer is a renowned author, meditation teacher, and nonviolent communication expert. His latest book, "Your Heart Was Made For This", offers a fresh perspective on contemplative practice, mindfulness, and personal transformation. Previously, Oren published the highly acclaimed "Say What You Mean: A Mindful Approach to Nonviolent Communication". He has led sold-out retreats across the United States and online, guiding thousands on the path to realizing their full potential. Discussed in this Episode: The transformative power of contemplative practice beyond traditional meditation...
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#66 - Chikodi Anunobi on The Thief and the Patriot: Unraveling Nigeria's Complex Culture
Books & Looks
Chikodi Anunobi is a talented Nigerian-born author who fearlessly tackles the complex issues of corruption, tribal conflicts, and political scandals in his gripping novel, "The Thief and the Patriot." With a unique perspective shaped by his upbringing in Nigeria and his experiences in the United States, Chikodi brings a fresh voice to the world of African literature. In this thought-provoking book, he skillfully weaves together a tale of power, greed, and the desperate struggle for survival in a nation grappling with its own identity. Discussed in this Episode: The real-life inspirations...
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#65 - Hanging with Hugo: Crafting a Killer Mystery Novel with Katherine Bolger Hyde
Books & Looks
Katherine Bolger Hyde is a talented author who has found her niche in the world of cozy mysteries. With a background in Russian literature and a love for British culture, she brings a unique perspective to her writing. In her "Crime with the Classics" series, she skillfully weaves together her passion for classic literature with intriguing mysteries that keep readers guessing until the very end. Discussed in this Episode: The inspiration behind Katherine's "Crime with the Classics" series and how she incorporates classic literature into her mystery novels. Katherine's writing process, from...
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#64 - Ballplayers in the Trenches: WWI's Chemical Warfare Heroes
Books & Looks
Journey with us into the little-known world of WWI baseball, where big-league stars like Christy Mathewson and Ty Cobb traded their uniforms for gas masks. In this episode, we sit down with historian and author Jim Leeke (author of ‘The Gas and Flame Men’) to uncover the incredible stories of major leaguers who bravely served in the Chemical Warfare Service, risking their lives on the front lines. You'll be amazed by the tales of sacrifice, courage and controversy that defined this unique chapter in baseball history. Watch on YouTube: Buy "The Gas and Flame Men" by Jim Leeke on Amazon: _...
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#63 - Escaping the Nazis: A Remarkable Tale of Survival and Resilience ('American Wolf' by Audrey Birnbaum)
Books & Looks
Today we have a conversation with Audrey Birnbaum, doctor turned author, as she shares her father's remarkable tale of survival and resilience. In 'American Wolf,' we uncover the astonishing story of a man who escaped Nazi Germany, only to return as an American spy. Audrey's engaging storytelling and fascinating family history will leave you on the edge of your seat. Don't miss this unforgettable episode that celebrates the indomitable human spirit! Watch on YouTube: Buy "American Wolf" by Audrey Birnbaum on Amazon: _ Produced by Find my book reviews on
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#62 - Inside the Blaze: The Untold Story of the Windsor Tragedy
Books & Looks
Today we unravel the lingering questions surrounding one of the deadliest fires in New York history with Marlie Wasserman, author of "Inferno on Fifth." What started the blaze that destroyed an entire city block and left 100+ dead on St. Patrick's Day 1899? Why was the true cause never determined? Marlie offers her take on these mysteries, shares her transition from scholarly publishing to historical crime fiction, and teases her next novel involving a kidnapping threat against President Cleveland's daughters. Watch on YouTube: Buy "Wilderness and the American Spirit" by Ruby McConnell on...
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#61 - Untamed America: Rediscovering Our Wild Heritage with Ruby McConnell
Books & Looks
Join us for a ride through America's untamed wilderness with Ruby McConnell, author of the book "Wilderness and the American Spirit." In this episode, we uncover the hidden histories and unsung heroes that shaped our nation's vast landscapes, from the intrepid Applegate brothers to the controversial conservationist Gifford Pinchot. Brimming with tales of beaver-fueled exploration, Hollywood hijinks, and dramatic standoffs deep in the Oregon forest, this is one adventure you won't want to miss. Watch on YouTube: Buy "Wilderness and the American Spirit" by Ruby McConnell on Amazon: _ Produced...
info_outlineJoin us in a captivating conversation with Deborah Jenkins, the mastermind behind the enchanting short story collection, "Winter Lights." Broadcasting from her home in Sussex, Jenkins unveils her unique journey as an author who has triumphed over personal challenges, including “profound deafness.” Her story is a testament to the power of resilience and passion for writing. Balancing roles as a family member, teacher, and writer, Jenkins shares insights into her early fascination with writing and the influences of authors like Anne Tyler and Elizabeth Strout in her work. Her narratives, rich with everyday life and emotion, are a window into her soul and the diverse world around us.
In this episode, we delve into the heart of Jenkins' "Winter Lights," a collection that elegantly captures the essence of life's fleeting moments. Jenkins describes her affinity for short stories, akin to snapshots, each offering a unique perspective. She discusses the thoughtful organization of her book, the inclusion of a music playlist for each story, and shares insights into specific narratives like "The Key" and "End of the Line." The conversation shifts to Jenkins' future projects, including a novel centered on the theme of societal listening, and we close with my personal reflections on the joy of board games during winter nights. Discover how Jenkins' experiences, both personal and professional, weave into her stories, creating a tapestry of engaging, inclusive literature.
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Produced by Podcast Studio X.
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