A Sense of Wonder

Join us for an inspiring episode featuring author G.R. Thomas as we explore the transformative power of writing! We go deep into how writing can serve as a profound tool for healing and personal growth, and the impact it has had on G.R.'s life. We tackle the current landscape of AI, discussing its challenges and how it impacts author's lives. Listen in and discover the importance of supporting indie authors, avoiding scams, and fostering community in the writing world. G.R. shares insights into world-building, artistic inspiration, and the influence of gothic themes on storytelling. We also chat about collaboration with artists, the joys of creative expression, and Grace's dedication to animal rescue and charitable work. Whether you’re a writer, artist, or simply a lover of stories, this episode is packed with inspiration and valuable insights. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 02:52 The Power of Writing as a Healing Tool 32:44 The Impact of AI on Creativity 33:06 Navigating the Challenges of AI in Writing 34:01 The Role of AI in Daily Life 35:39 Supporting Indie Authors and Avoiding Scams 46:26 Exploring Alternative History and Mythology 52:59 World Building and Visual Art in Writing 57:54 Artistic Inspiration and Gothic Influence 58:43 Collaboration with Artists and Cover Designs 01:00:00 Challenges and Successes in Art Commissioning 01:01:28 Supporting Smaller Artists and Cover Designers 01:04:16 Engaging with Authors at Conventions 01:05:14 The Joy of Writing and Creative Expression 01:18:00 Building a Community for Indie Authors 01:23:26 Animal Rescue and Charity Support 01:25:33 Author's Charitable Work 01:26:37 Personal Dedication and Vets' Struggles 01:28:46 Writing as a Reflection of Self 01:32:20 Exploring Sapphic Romance 01:40:03 Gothic Fantasy and Future Projects 01:45:06 GR Thomas's Social Media PresenceWant more?Connect with GR Thomas via her website: https://www.grthomasbooks.comNeed coaching support? Connect with Selina at Empowered Words: https://empoweredwords.com.auWant to follow us on Instagram?Go to A.Sense.of.Wonder.podcast and connect with us: https://www.instagram.com/a.sense.of.wonder.podcast/P.S., if you've enjoyed this episode, share it, tell your friends, and leave us a review so other creatives can find us too! Thank you!

🎙️ Exploring the Depths of Horror Writing with Aaron Dries!We talk with horror author Aaron Dries and we dive into the murky, eye opening and transformative waters of storytelling.In this episode, we discuss the importance of gratitude in creative communities, the challenges of navigating writing conferences, and the significance of giving back to the writing world. Aaron shares insights from his unique narrative journey in Dirty Heads, touching on themes of nostalgia, authenticity, and the role of personal experiences in shaping compelling characters.We explore how vulnerability fosters deep connections between writers and readers, and why a supportive community is essential for growth. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about the balance between life and art, the value of mentorship, and how to embrace authenticity in your writing process. Tune in for a conversation rich in inspiration and insight! Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Welcome to Aaron Dries!03:15 Gratitude and Community Support09:12 Navigating Conferences and Building Connections14:29 The Importance of Giving Back in the Writing Community18:27 Feeding Creativity and Setting Boundaries27:36 Discussion on 'Dirty Heads' and Unique Narrative Structure36:05 Exploring Nostalgia in Storytelling43:57 The Complexity of Writing Authentic Characters49:20 The Writing Process: Finding Flow and Inspiration56:49 Confrontation and Authenticity in Writing62:40 The Impact of Personal Experience on Writing69:05 Navigating Vulnerability and Community in Writing81:03 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Opportunities84:12 The Power of Mentorship and Vulnerability90:05 Writing as Self-Care and Authenticity100:15 The Importance of Diverse Voices in Literature110:26 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirationshttps://www.instagram.com/aarondries/https://www.instagram.com/a.sense.of.wonder.podcast/https://empoweredwords.com.au

Join us in this captivating episode as we chat with paranormal romance author K.E. Turner, known for her spicy stories that blend history, romance, and the supernatural. Discover how K.E. balances her writing career with daily life, all while exploring vital themes of mental health and creativity.In This Episode:Writing Process: K.E. shares her approach to crafting relatable characters and intimate scenes, emphasizing emotional connection over physical details.Historical Inspiration: Learn how her love for history shapes her narratives and influences her unique world-building in paranormal romance.Mental Health Matters: We discuss the importance of mental health and self-care in maintaining creativity, alongside the impact of life events on her writing process.Navigating Challenges: K.E. opens up about the struggles of social media, marketing, and the pressure of being an influencer in today’s literary landscape.Personal Narratives: Explore the significance of tarot cards in her creative journey and how her favorite books have influenced her writing.Recognition & Future Plans: Hear about K.E.'s proud moment of winning the Ruby Award and her exciting plans for diversifying her writing portfolio.Key Takeaways:Romance novels provide a platform for exploring complex human relationships and emotions.Authenticity is essential for connecting with readers and building genuine relationships.Historical accuracy and research play a critical role in shaping narratives.Downtime is vital for fostering creativity and inspiration.K.E. shares valuable tips for aspiring authors in the paranormal romance genre.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Authors and Writing Careers05:03 The Influence of Spicy Romance Novels on Readers and Relationships09:59 The Financial Realities of Writing Careers and Mental Health Support18:02 The Importance of Open Conversations About Sex and Mental Health23:13 The Impact of Life Events on Mental Health and Creativity30:28 The Influence of Tarot Cards and Personal Narratives55:16 Favorite Books and Historical Inspiration01:31:29 Understanding Male Perspectives in Intimate Scenes01:47:20 Tips for Aspiring Authors in Paranormal RomanceTune in to A Sense of Wonder - The Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify for an insightful and entertaining conversation with K.E. Turner that will inspire both readers and aspiring writers alike!empoweredwords.com.au

🎙️ Join us for a powerful conversation that dives deep into the heart of horror!In this episode, we celebrate 'Women in Horror' Month and explore the incredible contributions of women to the genre.We discuss the transformative power of horror writing, uncovering how it serves as a cathartic outlet to tackle deep, meaningful themes. But that’s not all!We’ll delve into the importance of community and inclusivity in the arts, highlighting how supportive networks empower writers and artists alike. Get ready to confront the challenges of comparison and self-sabotage that can stifle creativity, and learn how to cultivate presence, boundaries, and self-discovery to enhance your mental well-being and creative energy.We’ll also touch on the value of short stories, the emotional weight of personal experiences in storytelling, and the impact of current events on mental health and creativity. Listen as Lauren Elise (L.E.) Daniels shares her insights on the Mental Health Initiative for the Horror Writers Association and discusses triggers, post-traumatic growth, and the vital role of community in the horror genre. Plus, we’ve throw in some fun chat about favourite horror movies and what inspires our writing journeys!Whether you’re a seasoned writer or a horror enthusiast, this episode is packed with authenticity, vulnerability, and invaluable tips for aspiring horror writers. Don’t miss it! ✨ Tune in now and be part of a conversation that celebrates creativity, resilience, and the dark beauty of storytelling!Chapters00:00 Celebrating 'Women in Horror' Month07:00 Community and Inclusivity in the Arts40:18 The Impact of Personal Experiences on Writing47:29 Navigating Situational Distress and Trauma56:36 The Power of Authentic Storytelling01:03:02 Favourite Horror Movies and Writing Inspirations01:11:19 Writing from Personal Pain and Healing01:17:14 Mental Health Initiative for Horror Writers Association01:24:19 Triggers, Post-Traumatic Growth, and Community in Horror Writing01:37:29 Advice for Aspiring Horror Writers

In episode 2, 2026, hosts, Selina and Jarryd talk traditional publishing with Dianna Evans of Bushland Castle Productions.We cover practicing gratitude, feeding or fouling our creativity, active mindfulness, creating a publishing company, and supporting writers and their stories.We get into ways to balance creativity and personal life, the influence of mindfulness on creativity, the connection to childlike wonder and inspiration, and our favourite genres and reading habits.We share share insights on self-care, mindfulness, and the impact of childhood influences on our creative work, researching book covers for self-publication, the challenges of writing and coaching, and the details of a speculative fiction novella series due for release later in 2026.TakeawaysPracticing gratitudeFeeding or foulingActive mindfulnessCreating a publishing companySupporting writers and their stories Self-care and balance in creative workInfluence of mindfulness on creativity Diverse Reading PreferencesChallenges of Writing and CoachingOtherworldly Emergence Speculative Fiction Novella Series from Bushland Castle ProductionsChapters00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview34:12 Active Mindfulness40:29 Creating a Publishing Company49:01 Supporting Writers and Their Stories55:09 Influence of Mindfulness on Creativity01:04:15 Childlike Wonder and Inspiration01:14:15 Favorite Genre and Reading Habits01:33:13 Challenges of Writing and Coaching01:53:46 Speculative Fiction Novella Series

In episode 1 of A Sense of Wonder, hosts Selina and Jarryd explore the importance of creativity, mental health, and the writing process.They discuss gratitude, the role of nostalgia in emotional resilience, and the intricacies of writing coaching. The episode emphasises the significance of self-care for creatives and the responsibility authors have in representing their genres authentically.Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, the hosts aim to inspire listeners to reconnect with their sense of wonder and creativity.In this engaging conversation, Selina and Jarryd explore the intricacies of writing across various genres, the importance of understanding genre expectations, particularly in romance and horror.They discuss the elements that make horror effective, the intersection of comedy and horror, and the influence of acting on writing.The conversation also goes down some unexpected paths and into the significance of emotional memory in character development, the role of dialogue, and the benefits of feedback in the writing process.Additionally, they touch on the importance of mental health in character portrayal and the creative use of writing prompts to overcome writer's block.TakeawaysGratitude - what are you grateful for?Tools of the Trade Research and accuracy are crucial in writing to ensure the representation of characters, settings, and experiences.Sensitivity readers play a vital role in providing feedback and ensuring cultural and experiential accuracy in writing. Acting classes can benefit writersEmotional memory work can deepen character developmentChapters00:00 Introduction to A Sense of Wonder Podcast00:29 Practicing Gratitude: Finding Joy in Difficult Times01:59 Genres and Author Responsibilities45:59 Exploring Paranormal and Romance Genres48:53 The Impact of Acting on Writing51:44 The Art of Understanding Characters54:51 Emotional Memory in Writing57:11 The Importance of Dialogue58:57 Becoming a Fiction Book Coach01:03:51 The Influence of Mental Health on Writing01:08:43 Exploring Writing Prompts