Tom Hoeler, What Does Star Wars Mean To You?

Star Wars novel fans have we got a show for you! We sit down with Tom Hoeler, Editorial Director at Random House Worlds, to explore storytelling, fandom, and Star Wars publishing all at once. From his childhood love of Return of the Jedi and I, Jedi to shepherding modern classics like The Star Wars: Reign of the Empire (Mask of Fear) and the Star Wars: From a Certain Point of View anthologies, Tom shares his unique journey from fan to professional.We dive deep into the role of a Star Wars book editor, the art of balancing canon with author creativity, and the behind-the-scenes development of the highly anticipated Star Wars Episoe III Revenge of the Sith deluxe edition with annotations by Matthew Stover. Plus, Tom reveals favorite minor characters, most underrated novels, and sneak peeks at upcoming titles like Reign of the Empire part II.Tom Hoeler on BlueSkyTom Hoeler on Threads@DarthInternous on X Tom Hoeler is an editorial diriector at Random House Worlds, where he’s worked with authors like Timothy Zahn, Rebecca Roanhorse, Delilah S. Dawson, Cavan Scott, Christie Golden, and Madeleine Roux. Licensed properties he works on include Star Wars, Magic: The Gathering, and World of Warcraft. He lives in New York, where he collects board games, hosts elaborate Lord of the Rings movie marathons, perfects recipes, and manages two senior interns who happen to be cats. He cannot ride a bicycle. Twitter and Instagram @StarWarsMean2U Star Wars may have the largest and most diverse fanbase in all the galaxy—but every fan has their own certain point of view. So, tune your comlinks and join Star Wars enthusiasts, Dave (an OT kid) and Elora (a PT kid), every week for an in-depth conversation with a different devotee from all walks of life across the Star Wars fandom universe. Plus, it’s just FUN to talk about Star Wars. To bring balance to the fanbase, each episode we’ll delve into our guests’ personal Star Wars fandom story, and from that point of view, we’ll celebrate the power of the Force. Strap in, ignite your passion for the galaxy far, far away, and find out: What Does Stars Wars Mean To You? Music composed & performed by Gregory BromfieldCopyright 2026 David H. What Does Star Wars Mean To You? website Mentioned in this episode:Enjoying What Does Star Wars Mean To You?One of our goals this year is to grow the show so that WHAT DOES STAR WARS MEAN TO YOU reaches more listeners. And that’s where we’re asking you for help. And it’s really easy. Wherever you listen to us, please hit the subscribe button. If you’re liking the show, give us a 5 star rating and review on the platform you listen to us.It really does help us get noticed by new fans. May the force be with you