Books That Make You Podcast
Books That Make You brings you conversations with both authors and literary folks on the business side of things. We discuss new books, old books, indie books, and all the wonderful themes found within books. Whether you're an author or an avid book reader, this is the show for you.
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S:7 E:14 | Shelley Malicote Stutchman on Fighting Breast Cancer with Humor and Heart
09/09/2025
S:7 E:14 | Shelley Malicote Stutchman on Fighting Breast Cancer with Humor and Heart
What happens when you're diagnosed with breast cancer at 67—just after building your dream home and planning your wedding? For Shelley Malicote Stutchman, you write about it with raw honesty, a whole lot of humor, and just enough sass to make people gasp. In this episode, Shelley joins us to talk about her memoir, Peek-a-Boob, a powerful yet hilarious account of her journey through breast cancer. A nurse, mental health advocate, and first-time author at 70, Shelley opens up about being diagnosed in 2022 and how she used Facebook posts to process her experiences and help others—ultimately turning them into a 432-page book. Shelley shares deeply personal moments, from the fear of biopsies to the emotional weight of losing friends during treatment. She also reflects on unexpected joys, like finding love later in life and how her husband wrote the final chapter for the men who support survivors. Her advice is practical, heartfelt, and often laugh-out-loud funny. Whether you're a survivor, a caregiver, or someone who simply wants to better understand the emotional toll of breast cancer, Shelley’s story will resonate. #BreastCancerAwareness #PeekABoob #ShelleyMalicoteStutchman #CancerSurvivor #WomenWriters #MentalHealthMatters
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S:7 E:13 | Reader Nation Is the Book Event You Can't Miss, Joe Solari Explains
07/29/2025
S:7 E:13 | Reader Nation Is the Book Event You Can't Miss, Joe Solari Explains
What if your favorite authors weren't just names on book spines, but people you could meet in person? Joe Solari, managing director of Reader Nation and Writer Nation, shares why the upcoming Reader Nation event in Las Vegas is more than just a book signing. It's a real-world book community coming to life. Held at the Horseshoe and Paris Casinos, Reader Nation brings together over 300 authors, from legendary names like James Patterson to debut indie writers. It’s a rare chance for readers to get signed books, limited editions, and most importantly, personal conversations with the storytellers themselves. This isn’t just an author event. It's a fan-first experience that invites book lovers to connect with each other, explore new genres, and build lifelong reading habits through authentic community. Joe explains why Vegas is the perfect location, since it combines easy access, amazing food, and an unforgettable atmosphere. If you're passionate about books, this is your tribe. Come for the signings, stay for the panels, the swag, and the chance to discover authors you never knew you'd love. Use Coupon Code: BookFest25 at checkout https://reader-nation-2025.thesigningstore.com/
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S:7 E:12 | Life, Identity & Healing: Six to Carry the Casket Insights with Bill Hulseman
07/29/2025
S:7 E:12 | Life, Identity & Healing: Six to Carry the Casket Insights with Bill Hulseman
What happens when your family identity, religious upbringing, and personal truth collide? In this compelling conversation, author Bill Hulseman shares the deeply personal stories that shaped his life and inspired his book six to carry the casket and one to say the mass: reflections on life, identity, and moving forward. Bill opens up about being the youngest of ten children, what it meant to grow up feeling ornamental in his family, and how he found his voice amid the chaos of family dynamics and personal struggle. He talks about the power of reflective practices, what it means to question the identities we’re born into, and how 2020 forced many of us to confront who we are—and who we want to become. Bill also discusses the evolution of Pride, the influence of pop culture icons like Madonna on his queer identity, and the balancing act of being an openly gay man in Catholic education. His reflections are thoughtful, nuanced, and deeply relatable for anyone navigating questions of belonging and selfhood. Tune in for an honest conversation about life, faith, queerness, and finding purpose in unlikely places.
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S:7 E:11 | Love, Loss & Space Terror, The Dead Don’t Rest in Space, Requiem with John Palisano
06/18/2025
S:7 E:11 | Love, Loss & Space Terror, The Dead Don’t Rest in Space, Requiem with John Palisano
What happens when love, loss, and music collide in deep space? In this episode, Bram Stoker Award-winner and former Horror Writers Association president John Palisano joins us to talk about his latest book, Requiem. Set aboard a massive mortuary spacecraft called Eden, the novel blends gothic romance, cosmic horror, and speculative science fiction into one unforgettable journey. Eden isn't just a final resting place—it's a monument to memory, haunted by the preserved dead and a creeping entity named Animus. As musician Tessa tries to compose a new Requiem, she unwittingly opens a doorway for something dark and hungry. What follows is a chilling descent into hallucination, grief, and moral questions about memory, identity, and technology. John reveals the inspiration behind Eden, the emotional weight of grief, and how love—both lost and remembered—fuels the characters and narrative. He also teases real music he composed for the novel and the real science behind some of its more terrifying concepts. This isn’t just another haunted spaceship story—Requiem explores the kind of horror that lingers, that haunts your thoughts long after the final page.
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S:7 E:10 | From Pitch Slapped to Publishing Pro: Juliet Clark’s Author Journey
06/13/2025
S:7 E:10 | From Pitch Slapped to Publishing Pro: Juliet Clark’s Author Journey
How do you go from writing revenge-fueled mystery novels to coaching authors through one of the most misunderstood parts of the publishing process—marketing? Juliet Clark, founder of Author Traffic School and Superbrand Publishing, shares her personal journey from publishing her own novels like Pitch Slapped and Dead by Dawn, to helping other authors find their footing in the often murky world of platform building. In this candid and practical conversation, Juliet breaks down why writing the book is just the beginning. She opens up about the frustrations of early self-publishing, how she realized traditional models didn’t support authors or their readers, and why she created her own path to empower writers with real tools—from Author Alchemy journals to innovative book ad strategies across thousands of mobile apps. We also get into her philosophy on gratitude and manifestation, how she sees author success as a long-term journey, and why becoming a successful author also means embracing entrepreneurship. Whether you're about to publish your first book or looking to scale your author brand, Juliet’s insights are both inspiring and actionable. #AuthorMarketing #SelfPublishing #JulietClark #BookPromotion #IndieAuthors #PlatformBuilding #SuperbrandPublishing #AuthorTrafficSchool
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S:7 E:9 | Rediscover Your Creative Self in The Wild Why, Using Wonder, & Empathy with Laura Munson
06/05/2025
S:7 E:9 | Rediscover Your Creative Self in The Wild Why, Using Wonder, & Empathy with Laura Munson
What if the secret to rediscovering your creativity, your empathy, and even your joy was something you were born with—but lost along the way? In this episode, bestselling author Laura Munson talks about her newest book, The Wild Why, and the journey back to wonder. From the forests of Montana to ancient stone circles in Ireland, Laura’s personal stories and teachings invite us to pause, reflect, and reconnect with our inner voice. She shares the truth behind our creative blocks and the myth that we’re "not creative"—stories we’ve absorbed over time but don’t have to believe. We also explore why wonder matters, not just for personal fulfillment but for building empathy and a more compassionate society. Laura opens up about her own challenges, including divorce and life transitions, and how they shaped her understanding of inner kindness, creativity, and self-expression. Whether you’re juggling work, parenting, or just trying to get through the day, The Wild Why offers a compassionate call to stop in the moment, take a breath, and ask “what if?” again. #TheWildWhy #LauraMunson #BooksThatMakeYou #SelfHelp #Creativity #WritingLife #Wonder
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S:7 E:8 | Kelly O’Hearn on Channeling the Arcanum Series Through Tarot & Past Lives
05/22/2025
S:7 E:8 | Kelly O’Hearn on Channeling the Arcanum Series Through Tarot & Past Lives
Author Kelly O’Hearn joins the show to explore her captivating Arcanum series—a saga that intertwines time, love, and soul contracts across lifetimes. With In the Temple Shadows and Whispers In The Forest, the first two books of the six-part series, Kelly invites readers into a richly woven tale inspired by her own past life regressions and channeled entirely through the language of tarot. In this episode, Kelly breaks down how tarot goes beyond fortune-telling and becomes a powerful tool for self-discovery. She shares how the Arcanum series grew from visions of her former lives, where she played the roles of muse and mistress to powerful men—and how those soul contracts echo through time to shape the heroine’s modern-day life in New York City. We also dive into the deeper themes of the series: the seductive pull of power, the quest for freedom, the emotional impact of soulmates, and the transformation women experience in midlife. Whether you're a tarot enthusiast, skeptic, or just curious about metaphysical fiction, this episode offers something unique and inspiring. #Tarot #FantasyBooks #SpiritualFiction #ArcanumSeries #KellyOHearn @MagicalRealism @SpiritualJourney #BooksThatMakeYou
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S7 E7 | Inside Michele Kwasniewski’s Falling Star: The Dark Side of Hollywood
05/07/2025
S7 E7 | Inside Michele Kwasniewski’s Falling Star: The Dark Side of Hollywood
What happens when the spotlight fades and the pressure takes over? In this episode, Michele Kwasniewski dives deep into her powerful YA novel, Falling Star, the final installment of the Rise and Fall of Dani Truehart trilogy. Drawing from over 15 years of experience in the entertainment industry, Michele brings an unflinching look at the mental, emotional, and personal toll that fame can take—especially on young stars. Dani Truehart, once a teen pop sensation, is caught in the aftermath of a tragic decision. Fame, fortune, and pressure to perform have led her to a breaking point. As Michele explains, this isn’t just fiction—it mirrors real-life stories from the likes of Britney Spears, Lindsay Lohan, and other young talents who’ve had their lives dissected by the public eye. This book and conversation offer more than just drama. They ask real questions: Who are we when no one is looking? What happens when unconditional love is replaced by applause? And how do young people find their identity amid the noise? Whether you're a fan of YA fiction or fascinated by the world behind the red carpet, this episode pulls back the curtain.
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S:7 E:6 | Dr. Paul Corona on The Corona Protocol and Mind-Body Healing
05/07/2025
S:7 E:6 | Dr. Paul Corona on The Corona Protocol and Mind-Body Healing
What if healing your mind and body didn’t have to take months? In this powerful episode, we sit down with Dr. Paul Corona, author of The Corona Protocol, to discuss his fast-acting, patient-centered approach to mental health. From anxiety and depression to addiction and PTSD, Dr. Corona reveals how his mind-body treatment method delivers real results — often in just weeks. We explore the controversial but effective use of off-label medications, his thoughts on men's mental health, and why early intervention matters more than ever. Dr. Corona also opens up about his transition from family medicine to psychiatry, and how he blends both disciplines to treat patients holistically. Dr. Corona’s insights are reshaping the conversation around wellness. He doesn’t shy away from addressing school violence, trauma, and the mental health crisis facing today’s youth. Plus, we learn about The Doctor Paul Show, his reality-style series on Roku and Amazon Fire, which features real patients and real stories of transformation. If you or someone you know is struggling, this episode could be a game-changer. This is not medical advice and you should seek help and advice from a Dr.
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S:7 E:05 | The Magic of Awareness: Peter Gribble Talks The City of the Magicians
05/07/2025
S:7 E:05 | The Magic of Awareness: Peter Gribble Talks The City of the Magicians
What happens when a peaceful society faces a brutal threat it never saw coming? In this episode, we talk with fantasy author Peter Gribble, creator of “The City of the Magicians” series and author of book one, Threat. Drawing from his background in psychology, history, and education, Gribble explores what happens when complacency meets chaos—and how intellect, strategy, and even a little magic might be the keys to survival. Set in a richly imagined world, Threat follows characters like Lilia, who finds herself drawn into an underground movement while searching for her mother’s manuscript. Set in a society that must adapt or fall, the story explores themes of pacifism, unity, and hidden resistance. Gribble also shares personal stories from his time growing up in postwar France, studying figures like Gandhi, and what magic means in both fantasy and real life. We also dive into his experience writing for gardening magazines, working in bookstores, and his views on how memory and awareness shape our lives and our stories. Whether you love fantasy with a psychological twist, or you're curious about the intersection of intellect and imagination, this conversation is for you.
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S:7 E:4 Dale L. Roberts on Self-Publishing for New Authors – Your Guide to Indie Success!
05/07/2025
S:7 E:4 Dale L. Roberts on Self-Publishing for New Authors – Your Guide to Indie Success!
Are you dreaming of becoming an author, but unsure where to start? Dale L. Roberts, award-winning author and self-publishing advocate, joins us to talk about Self-Publishing for New Authors and what it really takes to launch a book in today’s indie publishing world. Dale shares his journey from reader to writer, the biggest fears new authors face, and how to overcome them. He also dives into the differences between self-publishing and traditional publishing, offering practical advice on formatting, editing, marketing, and avoiding industry pitfalls. Whether you're working on your first book or looking to refine your publishing strategy, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Learn why confidence, persistence, and community are key to making it as an independent author. Plus, Dale gives us a behind-the-scenes look at his YouTube channel, where he helps aspiring writers navigate the ever-changing world of self-publishing.
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S:7 E:03 Naked Girl: A Coming-of-Age Story Like No Other – Janna Brooke Wallack
03/14/2025
S:7 E:03 Naked Girl: A Coming-of-Age Story Like No Other – Janna Brooke Wallack
What happens when your father creates a cult, and you’re left to raise yourself in a decaying mansion filled with spiritual seekers and chaos? That’s the world of Naked Girl, the powerful novel by Janna Brooke Wallack. In this conversation, Janna delves into the unconventional childhood that inspired her book, her thoughts on generational parenting shifts, and how she channeled her own emotions into compelling fiction. Set in 1980s Miami Beach, Naked Girl follows siblings Sienna and Siddartha as they navigate life within their father’s bizarre, cult-like commune. Through their eyes, we experience the beauty, danger, and loneliness of growing up in an unpredictable world. With rich metaphors and immersive storytelling, Janna brings this unique setting to life, showing both the allure and the peril of freedom. We also dive into parenting, spirituality, and the generational cycle of raising children differently than we were raised. Janna shares insights from her own life as a mother of five, reflecting on how much of our past shapes our choices. Join us for this fascinating discussion and discover why Naked Girl has received critical acclaim, becoming a semifinalist for the 2024 Publishers Weekly Book Life Prize in Fiction. #JannaBrookeWallack #NakedGirl #BooksThatMakeYou #ComingOfAge #WritingCommunity #Parenting #CultSurvival
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S:7 E:02 How Indie Authors Are Winning: Jim Azevedo from Draft 2 Digital
03/14/2025
S:7 E:02 How Indie Authors Are Winning: Jim Azevedo from Draft 2 Digital
Can you really publish a book on your own? What does it take to be a successful indie author today? In this episode, we sit down with Jim Azevedo, a key figure in the self-publishing revolution and part of the team at Draft2Digital. Jim shares the fascinating journey from Smashwords to Draft2Digital, and how the industry has evolved since 2008. He discusses how indie authors can take control of their publishing careers, avoid scams, and build a sustainable platform. From digital publishing to print-on-demand, Jim reveals how tools like Draft2Digital empower writers to distribute their books worldwide—with no upfront costs. We also explore how indie authors support each other, why community matters, and the surprising ways AI is shaping the publishing world. Whether you're a new author or an experienced one looking to expand your reach, this episode is packed with insights you don’t want to miss. Drop a comment below if you're an indie author or thinking about becoming one!
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S:7 S:01 Unpacking Race in Education with Dr. Laura C. Chávez-Moreno
03/11/2025
S:7 S:01 Unpacking Race in Education with Dr. Laura C. Chávez-Moreno
How do schools shape our understanding of race—intentionally or not? Dr. Laura C. Chávez-Moreno joins us to discuss her groundbreaking book How Schools Make Race, which examines the ways educational systems reinforce racial identities and hierarchies. Through her research in a bilingual education program, Dr. Chávez-Moreno uncovers how schools, often unknowingly, contribute to the racialization of students. From curriculum choices to classroom dynamics, tracking, and resource allocation, these factors all play a role in shaping racial categories. She explores how bilingual education is both an attempt to counteract historical discrimination and a system operating within existing racial structures, creating tensions and contradictions. The conversation also touches on how educators can approach race in the classroom, the importance of evolving racial education, and how students themselves can advocate for change. If you're a teacher, parent, school leader, or simply someone interested in how race and education intersect, this is a must-watch conversation.
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S:6 E:61 Hidden Truths & Alien Cover-Ups: Paul Vecchiet’s The Disclosure Paradox
03/11/2025
S:6 E:61 Hidden Truths & Alien Cover-Ups: Paul Vecchiet’s The Disclosure Paradox
What if the truth about extraterrestrials and hidden government projects was right in front of us? Author Paul Vecchiet joins us to discuss The Disclosure Paradox, a novel that blurs the line between fiction and reality. Inspired by his experiences with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Paul shares insights into secret underground facilities, the military-industrial complex, and why we may not yet be welcome in a universal community. In this fascinating discussion, we explore how meditation and spiritual experiences shaped Paul’s understanding of humanity’s place in the cosmos. He delves into the paradox of disclosure—how can we evolve if we aren’t allowed to know the truth? Plus, we discuss government cover-ups, extraterrestrial observations of Earth, and why our violent tendencies might be keeping us isolated from advanced civilizations. Is humanity ready to take the next step? Or are we still “kids playing with matches” when it comes to the universe’s deeper truths? Watch now and dive into The Disclosure Paradox.
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S:6 E:60 | On the Road with Bigfoot? Skunk Ape Semester and the Paranormal with Mike Robinson
02/19/2025
S:6 E:60 | On the Road with Bigfoot? Skunk Ape Semester and the Paranormal with Mike Robinson
What happens when you blend On the Road with The X-Files? You get Skunk Ape Semester, a thrilling yet thoughtful road trip through paranormal Americana. Award-winning author Mike Robinson joins Books That Make You to discuss his latest novel, his fascination with Bigfoot, and how speculative fiction can explore humanity’s biggest questions. In Skunk Ape Semester, a zoologist embarks on a cross-country journey, interviewing those who claim to have encountered cryptids like the elusive skunk ape—a regional version of Bigfoot. But this is more than a monster hunt. It’s a deep dive into belief, science, and the mysteries that still haunt our world. Mike Robinson is a prolific author, editor, and illustrator with a passion for speculative fiction. His works weave together supernatural elements, philosophy, and a love for nature, making his books immersive and thought-provoking. Tune in as we explore cryptozoology, eco-fantasy, and what it means to confront the unknown.
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S:6 E:59 Sara Winokur Discusses 'Ivory Bones': Pirates, DNA & Mystery
02/12/2025
S:6 E:59 Sara Winokur Discusses 'Ivory Bones': Pirates, DNA & Mystery
Join us for a fascinating conversation with Sara Winokur, geneticist-turned-author, as she delves into the inspiration behind her thrilling novel, Ivory Bones. Drawing from her ancestry, which traces back to a Barbary pirate, and her extensive career in genetics, Sara weaves together a murder mystery that’s as grounded in real science as much as historical intrigue. Learn about the real-life Lewis Chessmen, priceless artifacts tied to the story, and how Sara’s protagonist uses forensic genetics to uncover secrets. We also explore the profound theme of heritage and its influence on identity, alongside Sara’s journey from science to storytelling. Whether you're captivated by the mystery of DNA or the allure of historical artifacts, Sara’s work is an incredible blend of science, history, and fiction.
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S:6 E:58 End Times Convergence? M.D. House’s Bold Vision in "Crossroads of Awakening Memory"
02/05/2025
S:6 E:58 End Times Convergence? M.D. House’s Bold Vision in "Crossroads of Awakening Memory"
Step into a rich, genre-bending world with M.D. House as he introduces Crossroads of Awakening Memory, the first book in his expansive fantasy series. Meet Rayne Barrett, a reluctant young hero thrust into a universe filled with dragons, magical talismans, and interdimensional portals. From medieval-inspired worlds to modern Earth, the story weaves fantasy, history, and spiritual exploration into a thrilling tapestry. As Rayne unravels ancient secrets and battles inner doubts, the book delves into timeless themes of faith, identity, and the awakening of forgotten truths. M.D. House shares his inspiration, world-building techniques, and the fascinating connections between history, mythology, and fantasy. Discover why this epic tale is just the beginning of an unforgettable series. If you love dragons, magic, and deep storytelling, this one's for you! #FantasyBooks #Dragons #WorldBuilding #AwakeningMemory #MDHouse #EpicFantasy #Magic #FantasySeries
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S:6 E:57 Sandy Clements Reveals the Secrets Behind Kaleidoscope of Secrets
01/29/2025
S:6 E:57 Sandy Clements Reveals the Secrets Behind Kaleidoscope of Secrets
Step into the gripping world of Kaleidoscope of Secrets with author Sandy Clements. In this stimulating interview, Sandy shares the inspiration behind her novel—a fast-paced story of family secrets, a smuggling operation hidden beneath an antique business, and the moral dilemmas faced by the reluctant protagonist, Mia. Learn how Sandy weaves complex family dynamics, suspenseful twists, and a race-against-the-clock plot into an unforgettable thriller. Discover her creative process, from blending personal experiences with fictional drama to crafting relationships that feel real and relatable. If you’re curious about writing mysteries or love books that keep you turning the pages, this conversation is for you.
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S:6 E:55 | Discover the Top 15 Books to Add to Your 2025 To-Be-Read List from Books That Make You
12/29/2024
S:6 E:55 | Discover the Top 15 Books to Add to Your 2025 To-Be-Read List from Books That Make You
Ready to refresh your To-Be-Read list for 2025? In this episode of Books That Make You, we explore 15 remarkable titles that will inspire, captivate, and entertain in the coming year. Whether you're into gripping dystopias like Suzanne Collins’ Sunrise on the Reaping, heartfelt memoirs like Terence Ang’s The Boy and The Man, or thrilling mysteries like Sara Winokur’s Ivory Bones, there’s something here for everyone. For fans of the fantastical, Crossroads of Awakening Memory by M.D. House promises an epic journey, while Octavia Butler’s timeless classic Parable of the Sower offers a thought-provoking look at a dystopian future. Dive into speculative fiction with Saving KC by Grinnell “Buzz” Desjarlais, or laugh and learn with the playful Snoodles in Space: Episode 2 by Steven Joseph. From Stephen King’s chilling Never Flinch to Kaitlyn E. Kenealy’s transformative Healing is Messy AF, these books cover an incredible range of genres and themes. Don’t miss From the Potato to Star Trek and Beyond by Chester L. Richards for a behind-the-scenes memoir, or Kaleidoscope of Secrets by Sandy Clements for a suspenseful thriller. What will you add to your list? Find your next favorite read today!
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S:6 E:54 | How Kieren-Paul-Brown’s Challenges Identity Norms In A Provocative Literary Journey
12/18/2024
S:6 E:54 | How Kieren-Paul-Brown’s Challenges Identity Norms In A Provocative Literary Journey
Kieren-Paul-Brown is rewriting the rules of storytelling with his novel N-Word, a daring narrative intertwining historical fiction, spiritual exploration, and modern-day social critique. Meet Antonia, an 85-year-old white woman reincarnated as Cara, a young Black social media influencer. The story spans two timelines: the civil rights movement of the 1950s and Cara's tumultuous world in 2024, blending themes of love, identity, and reincarnation. In this conversation, Kieren discusses the inspiration behind the book, his bold choice to write from a female perspective, and how his experiences as a British man observing American culture shaped the story. From spirituality and the sacred feminine to his critique of race as a social construct, Kieren dives deep into what makes N-Word a must-read. Don’t miss this engaging discussion that challenges norms and encourages empathy.
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S:6 | E:53 Inside the Mind of a Serial Killer: A.G. Flitcher on Black Rose Cocoon
12/12/2024
S:6 | E:53 Inside the Mind of a Serial Killer: A.G. Flitcher on Black Rose Cocoon
Step into the shadowy world of Black Rose Cocoon, where a female serial killer defies some of the darker norms. 🖤 Award-winning author A.G. Flitcher shares the chilling inspiration behind his latest novel, diving deep into the psychology of fear, love, and madness. What sets female killers apart? How do societal reactions shape stories of crime? A.G. Flitcher explores these haunting questions and more in this revealing interview. Plus, get a sneak peek into his next gripping tale, Wasp Oil. Discover why readers can't put down his work, and learn what fuels his unique take on horror and human nature. 🕯️ If you're fascinated by dark fiction and serial-killer psychology, you won't want to miss this. 📚 Topics we cover: The psychology behind Black Rose Cocoon. What inspires a writer to explore fear and darkness. Writing tips for aspiring authors. 💀 Watch now for a deep dive into the sinister and the sensational. #BlackRoseCocoon #AGFlitcher #DarkFiction #HorrorBooks #WritersLife #SerialKillers #Murder #CrimeFiction #CriminalPsychology
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S:6 E:52 | Grief, Secrets, and Redemption: Barbara J. Taylor’s Rain Breaks No Bones
12/05/2024
S:6 E:52 | Grief, Secrets, and Redemption: Barbara J. Taylor’s Rain Breaks No Bones
Dive into the world of family secrets, historical depth, and emotional redemption with Barbara J. Taylor, author of the Scranton Trilogy. From coal miners to vaudevillians, her richly crafted characters explore life’s complexities in early 20th-century Scranton, Pennsylvania. Discover how tragedy sparks generational stories, how hope persists through Violet’s journey, and the mystical elements that tie it all together. Plus, Barbara shares her insights on writing courageously and crafting relatable characters. And as her stories are filled the likes of miners, evangelists, vaudevillians, nuns, gangsters, prostitutes, widows, musicians, dreamers, and even seers, you know she knows a thing or two about crafting a colorful variety of characters. Rain Breaks No Bones is the final novel in Barbara J. Taylor's Scranton Trilogy, starting with Sing in the Morning, Cry at Night, followed by All Waiting Is Long. Though the novels are connected, they each stand alone.
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S:6 E:51 Poetry & Mysticism with Chelan Harkin: Dive into The Mystical World of Poetry
11/13/2024
S:6 E:51 Poetry & Mysticism with Chelan Harkin: Dive into The Mystical World of Poetry
Chelan's poetic journey began at just 21 after a profound, life-altering experience. She describes it as a creative opening—a mystical event where verses flowed through her, bringing comfort, hope, and a newfound sense of wholeness. Her captivating works, including Beloved, Wild Grace, and The Prophetess, The Return of The Prophet from The Voice of The Divine Feminine, serve as pathways for readers to embrace wholeness, find healing after trauma, and connect with the divine feminine. In this episode, Desiree dives into the heart of Chelan's work, exploring how poetry can serve as a balm for the soul, lifting us up, instilling hope, and encouraging personal growth. Discover Chelan's unique approach to writing, which speaks to the essence of the mystical and the power of vulnerability. Learn how trauma, hope, and the divine feminine weave through her poetic creations, offering readers a profound journey of self-discovery and peace.
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S:6 E:50 From Pages to Podcasts: A New Era of Storytelling with Dave Campbell from True Media Solutions
11/07/2024
S:6 E:50 From Pages to Podcasts: A New Era of Storytelling with Dave Campbell from True Media Solutions
Welcome to another exciting episode of Books That Make You. Join us as we dive into the world of podcasting with our special guest, Dave Campbell from True Media Solutions. Dave is a seasoned host and producer of several successful podcasts, and today, he's here to share his insights on how podcasting is revolutionizing storytelling. In this episode, we explore: The transformative impact of podcasting on storytelling and content creation. Tips for authors and professionals looking to start their own podcasts. The potential of podcasting as a revenue stream and its future prospects. Whether you're a narrative nerd, a bibliophile, or someone curious about the podcasting world, this episode is packed with valuable information and inspiration. Don't miss out on Dave's expert advice and the engaging discussion led by our host, Desiree Duffy. True Media Solutions https://truemediasolutions.ca/
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S:6 E:49 Freeman's Challenge: Unveiling the Origins of Prison for Profit with Dr. Robin Bernstein
10/30/2024
S:6 E:49 Freeman's Challenge: Unveiling the Origins of Prison for Profit with Dr. Robin Bernstein
The United States has a very complex, oft-oversimplified past. Dr. Robin Bernstein—a Dillon Professor of American History and Professor of African and African-American Studies and Studies of Women, Gender, and Sexuality at Harvard University—unravels a bit of that past in her new book Freeman’s Challenge, a gripping story of murder, greed and race about a young man sentenced to five years of hard labor at Auburn prison in the early 19th century. In the 19th century, as slavery gradually ended in the North, a village in New York State concocted a new form of unfreedom—the profit-driven prison, uniting incarceration and capitalism. Here, the village of Auburn built a prison that enclosed industrial factories, where “slaves of the state” were leased to private companies. The book’s protagonist, an Afro-Native teenager named William Freeman, is convicted of horse theft and insists on his innocence. After demanding fair wages, a series of events leads to violence and social aftershocks that reverberate still in our society today. Find out more on . You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
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S:6 E:47 Exploring the South's History with Stacia Moffett: "The Missing Girl" and "Jessa is Back"
10/16/2024
S:6 E:47 Exploring the South's History with Stacia Moffett: "The Missing Girl" and "Jessa is Back"
Books That Make You Consider the Social Dynamics of the South As a place where race and identity exist in centuries-long tension—which, of course, reverberates to this day—the South holds a complex, multifaceted history. The series “Lost and Found in Tennessee” by Stacia Moffett, featuring The Missing Girl and Jessa is Back, offers a gripping portrait of the South’s enduring legacy and rich history. Born into a family of educators in Nashville, Tennessee, Stacia grew up on a nearby farm. In the early sixties, her academic journey to Mississippi further shaped her understanding of the South’s cultural and racial situation, eventually inspiring her historical fiction. Find out more on . You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
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S:6 E:46 Overcoming Fear & Unlocking Spiritual Gifts With Alejandra G Brady, Author of I Just Can't Make This Sh!T Up
10/09/2024
S:6 E:46 Overcoming Fear & Unlocking Spiritual Gifts With Alejandra G Brady, Author of I Just Can't Make This Sh!T Up
Books That Make You Confront Fear—and Embrace Your Spiritual Gifts When she was sixteen years old, Alejandra G. Brady awoke to someone she knew standing at the head of her bed. It was her first visit from someone who had died. It wasn’t until she was 50 when someone would give her a name for these unusual experiences. Feeling as if something was missing in life and suffering from cervical compression, she consulted a Feng Shui master on her home. The master told her that Alejandra would soon follow in her footsteps. When Alejandra began applying Feng Shui principles to her home, she noticed massive transformations in her health, her marriage and her financial outcome. Alejandra’s new book, I Just Can’t Make This STUFF Up!, shows that everyone can experience true purpose, flow, bliss and awe at the incredible clues and symbols delivered by the Universe—if they fearlessly embrace their own spiritual journey. Find out more on . You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
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S:6 E:45 Unconditional Love and Forgiveness in 'Saving KC': A Discussion with Buzz Desjarlais
10/02/2024
S:6 E:45 Unconditional Love and Forgiveness in 'Saving KC': A Discussion with Buzz Desjarlais
Books That Make You Select Your Own Ending for Your Life Since no one gets out of life alive, we can at least decide how our own stories should end. Saving KC is the new Historical Fiction novel by Grinelle “Buzz” Desjarlais, who deeply and compassionately explores addiction, and the connections we might find in unexpected places. Set against the backdrop of post-Vietnam America, Saving KC follows a POW who comes home to find everything changed. In time, he meets a songstress in the midst of her own war. Saving KC addresses recovery, addiction and, ultimately, redemption. Born on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation in Montana, also known as the Chippewa Cree Reservation, Buzz helped found the non-profit Native Project, which serves as an outpatient drug and alcohol treatment center for Native youth. Presently, he is a business owner, father and grandfather who helps guide others on their own journey of recovery. Find out more on . You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
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S:6 E:44 Writing Emotion-Packed Thrillers with Lee Lindauer, Author of The Salvation of Henry Maxwell
09/26/2024
S:6 E:44 Writing Emotion-Packed Thrillers with Lee Lindauer, Author of The Salvation of Henry Maxwell
Books That Make You Enter the World of Hollywood—and Murder This fall, gear up for an emotion-packed thriller, as you shake literary hands with an aging Hollywood horror actor whose wife’s death years ago may, in fact, have been murder. Such is the set-up of the new novel, The Salvation of Henry Maxwell, by Lee Lindauer. Lindauer is an award-winning author, whose transition to writing from structural engineering has fascinated many readers worldwide. Praised for deep dives into the human mind, his stories explore the nuances of fear, redemption, and the tenacity of the human spirit. With its thrilling explorations of discovery and transformation, all under the eerily romantic shadows of Old Hollywood, The Salvation of Henry Maxwell has captivated readers of many tastes. Find out more on . You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
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