Author Talk

🎙️ Author Talk with Ed McDonald 🎬📚You’ve seen Goodfellas… but do you know the REAL stories behind it?This week on Author Talk, I sit down with former federal prosecutor Ed McDonald to talk about his upcoming memoir, Chasing Goodfellas: Lufthansa, Henry Hill, Point Shaving, and Making Movies.And when we say Ed had a front-row seat to mob history, we mean it.From taking on organized crime and prosecuting the infamous Lufthansa heist and Boston College point-shaving scandal, to his complicated relationship with Henry Hill—and somehow ending up playing himself in Martin Scorsese’s Goodfellas—Ed has stories you simply couldn’t make up.We talk about the cases, the characters, what Hollywood got right (and wrong!), and what it was really like to go head-to-head with some of the most notorious names in organized crime.If you love true crime, mob history, Goodfellas, or just an incredible “you had to be there” story, you’re going to LOVE this conversation.🎧 Catch our conversation on Author Talk!#AuthorTalk #EdMcDonald #ChasingGoodfellas #Goodfellas #TrueCrime #TrueCrimeBooks #MobHistory #OrganizedCrime #HenryHill #LufthansaHeist #AuthorInterview #BookPodcast #Memoir #BookCommunity

🎙️ Author Talk with A.D. SolomonWhat happens when two ordinary people are pulled from Earth and dropped into a world filled with magic, ancient powers, and secrets they were never meant to uncover?This week on Author Talk, we’re joined by fantasy author A.D. Solomon, creator of the Lex Anders Saga and the world of Eldradune.We talk about Twin Moons of Eldradune and the larger saga behind it, including the inspiration for this expansive fantasy world, the characters of Lex Anders and Mara Thorne, and the themes of friendship, identity, destiny, sacrifice, and the choices that shape our lives. A.D. also shares what inspired his love of fantasy and worldbuilding—from Star Wars and Star Trek to some of the genre's most influential authors—and what it takes to create a story that can grow across an entire saga. 📚 In this episode, we talk about:✨ The creation of Eldradune⚔️ Lex and Mara's journey🌙 Twin Moons of Eldradune🗺️ Building an expansive fantasy world❤️ The human connections at the heart of epic fantasy✍️ A.D. Solomon's journey as an authorIf you're a fan of epic fantasy, immersive worldbuilding, magic, adventure, and stories that transport you somewhere completely new, you'll definitely want to check out this episode.🎧 Tune in to Author Talk and meet the author behind Eldradune!#AuthorTalk #ADSolomon #TwinMoonsOfEldradune #LexAnders #Eldradune #EpicFantasy #FantasyBooks #FantasyAuthor #AuthorInterview #BookPodcast #BookCommunity #FantasyReaders #BookLovers #AmReading

Join us as we sit down with award-winning author Alison McBain to discuss her novels Between North and Prior and Diving into Nebulae. We explore the inspiration behind these captivating stories, the themes woven throughout each book, and how Alison creates characters and worlds that stay with readers long after the final page.During our conversation, we discuss: The stories behind Between North and Prior and Diving into Nebulae Alison's creative process and inspiration Building immersive worlds readers can't wait to explore Her journey as an award-winning author. Whether you're a fan of thought-provoking science fiction, imaginative storytelling, or discovering your next favorite author, this episode is for you. Catch the replay and let us know—which of Alison's books are you excited to read first?#AuthorTalk #AlisonMcBain #BetweenNorthAndPrior #DivingIntoNebulae #ScienceFiction #SpeculativeFiction #AuthorInterview #BookPodcast #BookCommunity #ReadersOfInstagram #BookLovers #AmReading

I’m excited to welcome author Rachael M. Colby to Author Talk!We’ll be discussing her book, Tropical Dreams, along with the inspiration behind it, her writing journey, and the message she hopes readers take away from her work.Join us for a thoughtful conversation about faith, purpose, storytelling, and the experiences that shaped this book.#AuthorTalk #RachaelMColby #TattooItOnYourHeart #AuthorInterview #BookTalk #WritingCommunity #FaithAndWriting

A community theatre production, a suspicious death, and a senior sleuth who may be smarter than the police… what could possibly go wrong? On this episode of Author Talk, I’m chatting with author Erik D’Souza about Death on the Rocks, his Suzanne Rickson Mystery series, and the inspiration behind his traditional, twist-filled whodunits.

Award-winning author Nathan Jorgenson joins us for a thoughtful conversation about storytelling, family, loss, humor, and second chances. We also explore the personal story behind Waiting for White Horses and the life experiences that have shaped his novels.

What stories lie behind a work of art?In this episode of Author Talk, host Aimee Ravichandran sits down with artist and author Mary Marquiss to discuss her inspiring memoir, Behind the Painting: An Artist's Memoir. Together, they explore the deeply personal experiences that shaped both her life and her artwork, revealing how creativity became a source of healing through life's greatest triumphs and challenges.Mary shares the stories behind her paintings, reflects on resilience in the face of adversity, and discusses the courage it takes to transform life's most meaningful moments into art. Whether you're an artist, reader, writer, or simply someone who appreciates the power of storytelling, this conversation offers inspiration, hope, and a reminder that every masterpiece has a story waiting to be told.Tune in for an unforgettable conversation about art, perseverance, and the beauty of finding purpose through creativity.

🎙️ Author Talk with Maria Gallucci 🎙️Some stories entertain us. Others help us see the world through a completely new lens.Join us on Author Talk as we welcome Maria Gallucci, author of Raised in Silence: Lessons on Listening, Love, and Loud Family Dinners. In this heartfelt memoir, Maria shares her experience growing up as a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults), navigating two worlds while discovering the power of communication, connection, and understanding. In this inspiring conversation, we'll discuss:📚 The story behind Raised in Silence❤️ Growing up between Deaf and hearing cultures🎧 The lessons she's learned about listening beyond words✍️ Her journey from successful entrepreneur to published authorMaria's story is a powerful reminder that communication is about far more than what we say—it's about how we connect, understand, and show up for one another. 🎧 Tune in for a conversation filled with insight, inspiration, and heart.#AuthorTalk #MariaGallucci #RaisedInSilence #AuthorInterview #Memoir #BookPodcast #CODA #DeafCulture #BookCommunity #ReadersOfInstagram #AuthorLife #BookLovers #InspiringStories #AmReading

🎙️ Author Talk with Chad Boudreaux 🎙️What happens when justice fails—and someone decides to take matters into their own hands?Join us on Author Talk as we sit down with author Chad Boudreaux to discuss his gripping thriller, Mob Justice. Packed with suspense, moral dilemmas, and edge-of-your-seat twists, this thought-provoking novel explores the fine line between justice and vengeance.In this episode, Chad shares:📚 The inspiration behind Mob Justice⚖️ The ethical questions at the heart of the story✍️ His writing process and approach to building suspense🔥 What readers can expect from this unforgettable thrillerIf you enjoy crime fiction, legal thrillers, and stories that challenge your perspective, you won't want to miss this conversation.🎧 Tune in and discover why Mob Justice is sparking conversations long after the final page is turned.#AuthorTalk #ChadBoudreaux #MobJustice #ThrillerBooks #CrimeFiction #LegalThriller #AuthorInterview #BookPodcast #BookCommunity #AmReading #ReadersOfInstagram #BookLovers #SuspenseBooks #AuthorLife

🎙️ Author Talk with John Winn Miller 🎙️What happens when an award-winning investigative journalist, foreign correspondent, screenwriter, and publisher turns his attention to historical fiction? You get unforgettable stories packed with authenticity, suspense, and heart.Join us on Author Talk as we welcome John Winn Miller, author of the acclaimed Peggy C Saga. Drawing from a remarkable career covering world events and reporting from conflict zones around the globe, John brings a level of realism and historical detail that transports readers straight into the heart of World War II. During our conversation, we'll discuss:📚 The inspiration behind the Peggy C Saga⚓ How real history shapes his thrilling WWII adventures✍️ His journey from journalism and filmmaking to bestselling fiction🌍 Why historical stories continue to resonate with modern readersWhether you're a fan of historical fiction, wartime thrillers, or simply love hearing the stories behind the stories, this is an episode you won't want to miss.🎧 Tune in and discover why readers are calling John's novels gripping, immersive, and impossible to put down.#AuthorTalk #JohnWinnMiller #HistoricalFiction #WWIIFiction #PeggyCSaga #TheHuntForThePeggyC #RescueRun #BookPodcast #AuthorInterview #BookCommunity #ReadersOfInstagram #AmReading #HistoricalThriller #BookLovers

🎙️ Author Talk with Ralph DeFalco 🎙️This week on Author Talk, we sat down with author, historian, and retired U.S. Navy Captain Ralph DeFalco to discuss his gripping debut thriller, The Counterfeit. Drawing on decades of experience in military intelligence and national security, Ralph shares how real-world geopolitics, espionage, and the fight for freedom inspired a story that feels both chillingly plausible and impossible to put down. From intelligence operations and world affairs to the challenges of writing fiction after a distinguished career in public service, this conversation offers fascinating insights into the mind behind one of this year's most talked-about political thrillers. 🎧 Catch the replay and discover:📚 The inspiration behind The Counterfeit🕵️ How intelligence experience shaped the story🌎 The intersection of fiction, history, and geopolitics✍️ Ralph's journey from analyst and historian to novelist#AuthorTalk #RalphDeFalco #TheCounterfeit #PoliticalThriller #AuthorInterview #BookPodcast #ThrillerBooks #AmReading #BookCommunity #AuthorLife #ReadersOfInstagram #BookLovers

Ahh. Summer is here officially...that means writers' conferences, comic cons, and so much more happening this summer. So lets get into it. #podcast #writers #authors

CALLING ALL DOG LOVERSThis show is for you! Join us as we talk about the joys the rescue dogs can bring with brand new author Holly! #bookiscussion #bookchat #author #writers

🎙️ On today’s episode of Author Talk, we had the pleasure of chatting with author T.K. Bush about her writing journey, storytelling, inspiration, and the passion behind her work. 📚✨From the creative process to the moments that shaped her as an author, this was such a thoughtful and engaging conversation—and one we know fellow book lovers and writers are going to enjoy.If you missed us live, be sure to catch the replay and spend some time getting to know T.K. Bush and her incredible work!#AuthorTalk #Podcast #TKBush #Authors #WritingCommunity #BookLovers #Readers #AmWriting #AuthorInterview

CALLING ALL DOG LOVERSThis show is for you! Join us as we talk about the joys the rescue dogs can bring with brand new author Holly! #bookiscussion #bookchat #author #writers

Join us as we talk with Seth about his newest novel, "Immune." If you love zombies! This is a show you don't wanna miss.#author #bookchat #bookdiscussion

Join us on Author Talk as we sit down with author Daniel Grace to dive into his writing journey, the inspiration behind his work, and what it really takes to bring powerful stories to life.From idea to execution, Daniel shares insights into his creative process, challenges, and the moments that shaped his path as a writer. Whether you're an author, reader, or creative, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.🎧 Tune in now and get inspired.#AuthorTalk #Podcast #WritersLife #AmWriting #BookCommunity

What does it mean to tell a story through both images and words?In today’s episode of Author Talk, we sit down with photographer and literary creative Steven Seidenberg to explore how storytelling evolves across mediums. From capturing powerful visual moments behind the lens to expressing deeper narratives through his writing, Steven shares how these two creative paths intersect and shape his work.We dive into his artistic journey, the development of his creative voice, and the balance between passion and business in a competitive creative industry. Steven also opens up about his literary work and how writing allows him to expand the stories he begins through photography.Whether you’re an author, creative, or entrepreneur, this episode offers a fresh perspective on what it means to build a life centered around storytelling.✨ Photography as storytelling✨ The connection between visual and written art✨ Building a creative career with intentionPress play and get inspired.#AuthorTalk #Podcast #Photography #WritersLife #CreativeEntrepreneur

Today on Author Talk, we’re diving into a powerful conversation you don’t want to miss.We sit down with a special guest to talk about the realities of the writing journey — the highs, the challenges, and the moments that truly shape an author’s path. From behind-the-scenes insights to honest conversations about growth, this episode is all about what it really takes to keep going and build something meaningful.If you’ve ever questioned your progress, felt stuck, or wondered what success actually looks like in this industry… this one’s for you.✨ Real talk about the author journey✨ Lessons you can apply right now✨ A reminder that you’re not alone in thisPress play, get inspired, and let’s keep moving forward — one page at a time.#AuthorTalk #Podcast #WritersLife #MondayMotivation #AuthorLife #WritingCommunity

What does it take to become a New York Times bestselling author?In this episode of Author Talk, we sit down with J.D. Barker to dive into the reality behind the success — from his early writing journey to building a career that spans bestselling thrillers, collaborations with major authors, and a loyal global readership. J.D. shares candid insights on the publishing industry, what actually moves the needle in book sales, and the mindset required to keep showing up in a competitive space. We also talk about craft, consistency, and how authors can position themselves for long-term success. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling your author career, this episode is packed with real-world advice you won’t want to miss.~ Behind-the-scenes of a NYT bestselling career~ Publishing insights every author should know ~ Practical advice you can apply right now. Press play and learn from one of the best.#AuthorTalk #JDBarker #WritersLife #Publishing #IndieAuthor #MondayMotivation

What does it really take to build a writing career from the ground up?In this episode of Author Talk, we sit down with Douglas to explore his writing journey — from early beginnings to the moments that shaped his success. We dive into the challenges, mindset shifts, and breakthroughs that helped him keep going when things felt uncertain.If you’re an aspiring writer, published author, or creative chasing your next big goal, this conversation will leave you encouraged and motivated to stay the course.✨ Expect honest insights✨ Real-world lessons from the publishing journey✨ A reminder that success is built one page at a timePress play and get inspired.#AuthorTalk #WritersLife #MondayMotivation #WritingCommunity #IndieAuthor

Join us as we speak with Jeremy about his writing journey and his upcoming novel, Wretch, which dives into crime and horror. #mondaymotivation #writers #authors #podcast

What does it take to break barriers in medicine—and keep going when the odds are stacked against you?In this episode, we sit down with Craig Yorke, author of Steep: A Black Neurosurgeon’s Journey, for a powerful and deeply personal conversation about resilience, identity, and perseverance. From navigating the pressures of a demanding medical career to confronting systemic challenges head-on, Craig shares the moments that shaped his journey—and the lessons that continue to guide him.This is an honest, inspiring discussion about ambition, purpose, and what it truly means to climb when the path is steep.✨ Perfect for readers, writers, medical professionals, and anyone looking for a dose of Monday motivation.

We’re welcoming Ian Domowitz to Author Talk—a veteran of the military, academia, and Wall Street, with 12 fintech patents and a passion for exploring intelligence, existence, and identity without generative AI in his fiction.In Initial Condition, Domowitz introduces readers to The Mechanic—a being caught between centuries, realities, and definitions of life itself. Our conversation explores the philosophy behind the story, the moral questions it raises, and the craft of writing speculative fiction with depth and restraint. Thoughtful, relaxed, and full of insight—just the way Author Talk likes it.#AuthorTalkPodcast #AuthorInterview #IndieAuthors #SpeculativeLiterature #WritingCommunity

We have officially survived the holidays! 🎄 Aimee is exhausted from the Christmas chaos, Russell is diving deeper into his fascination with the "Dark Romance" genre (and space operas), and we are thrilled to welcome Canadian author Liisa Kovala.Liisa joins us from snowy Northern Ontario to discuss her historical fiction novel, Water for Weary Souls. Set in the 1930s, the book explores the lives of Finnish immigrants, the grit required to survive the Great Depression, and the family secrets buried in a local boarding house.In this episode, we discuss:🇫🇮 The Power of Sisu: Liisa explains the untranslatable Finnish concept of "Sisu"—a mixture of grit, guts, and determination—and how it defines her characters (and her tattoo choice!).🏚️ History & Fiction: The real-life inspiration behind the boarding houses, bootleggers, and immigrant struggles in Sudbury, Ontario.✍️ The Writing Journey: Liisa shares her transition from writing non-fiction to historical fiction and the challenge of balancing accurate research with a compelling narrative.❄️ Winter Woes: The team bonds (and complains) about winter driving, from Texas ice scares to Canadian blizzards.🕵️‍♀️ What’s Next: A sneak peek at Liisa’s upcoming "Hygge House" cozy mystery series.Tune in for a mix of history, humor, and a lesson on how to channel your inner Sisu when life gets tough.📚 Check out Liisa’s Work:Water for Weary Souls[Link to Liisa's website/socials if available]We want to hear from you! Do you have a favorite historical fiction novel that taught you about a specific culture? Let us know on our socials!#AuthorTalk #LiisaKovala #HistoricalFiction #Sisu #FinnishCanadian #Podcast #WritingCommunity #BookChat #AmReading

The holidays are officially over, but the chaos lingers! Russell is still asking everyone about "Dark Romance" tattoos, and we are joined by the inspiring Eric Fisher.Eric, joining us from Calgary, shares the harrowing true story behind his memoir, Buried Alive: 4 Ways to Free Yourself from the Dirt. Based on his father's survival of a trench collapse, Eric uses this traumatic event to explore resilience, mental health, and overcoming life's heaviest burdens.In this episode, we discuss:🕳️ Survival Against Odds: The terrifying true story of Eric's father being buried alive and the miraculous rescue that followed.🧠 The CIA Method: Eric explains his framework for healing: Curiosity, Introspection, and Agency.🎰 True Crime & History: A look at Eric's other book, The Man Who Could Do No Wrong, which dives into a pastor's involvement in a slot machine Ponzi scheme.🥋 Physical & Mental Discipline: How martial arts played a crucial role in Eric's journey of recovery and mental strength.🖤 Russell’s Favorite Question: Eric gives one of the best answers yet to Russell's recurring question about literary tattoos!Tune in for a powerful conversation about finding freedom from your past and digging yourself out of the "dirt."📚 Check out Eric’s Work:Buried Alive: 4 Ways to Free Yourself from the DirtThe Man Who Could Do No WrongWe want to hear from you! What tools or methods have helped you overcome a difficult time in your life? Let us know on our socials!#AuthorTalk #EricFisher #MentalHealth #Resilience #TrueStory #Podcast #BookChat #Memoir #Recovery

CALLING ALL DOG LOVERSThis week, we are recovering from a chaotic (and snowy!) weekend as Aimee dreads her holiday laundry and Russell continues his fascinating deep dive into the world of "Dark Romance" book trends—specifically, why fans are getting tattoos of book quotes on their backs!Then, we have a heartwarming and insightful conversation with Canadian author Holly B. Gutwillinger. Holly joins us from Northern Ontario (where it's currently -20 degrees!) to discuss her upcoming novel, a story about healing, purpose, and the unique bond between humans and their rescue dogs.In this episode, we discuss:🐶 The Reality of Rescue Dogs: Holly shares the moving story of her own dogs, Sully and Cash, and the realization that you can't always "fix" a rescue dog—sometimes, love is about acceptance.✍️ Fiction with a Purpose: Why Holly chose to write a fictional story rather than a memoir to give her anxious dog, Sully, a voice.❄️ Life in Northern Ontario: Snowstorms, freezing temperatures, and finding inspiration in the quiet of winter.📚 Russell’s Genre Education: The team discusses book tattoos, sprayed edges, and why "Dark Romance" is taking over the book world.📖 The Writing Journey: Holly talks about finding her voice as a writer later in life and the therapeutic nature of storytelling.Tune in for a mix of laughs, touching dog stories, and a look at how fiction can help us understand the real world a little better.

This week, things get a little spooky (and a little confusing) on the podcast! Aimee battles the unpredictable Texas weather, while Russell shares a hilarious story about accidentally stumbling into the world of "Dark Romance" book festivals—where authors apparently get tattoos of their own book covers on stage.Then, we settle in for a fascinating conversation with South Dakota author Seth Voorhees. Seth specializes in "Dark Fiction," a genre that blends the best elements of thriller, suspense, and horror.In this episode, we discuss:🧟‍♂️ Zombies & Class Warfare: How The Walking Dead inspired Seth’s novel Immune, which explores the tension between the "immune" and the "inflicted" in a post-apocalyptic society.🏚️ Small Town Horror: The creepy premise behind The Interim, a story about a cursed town where residents must hide in their basements for 12 days every October.👽 Sci-Fi Dystopias: A look at Question 17, Seth's novel set 46 years after an alien invasion.✍️ The Writing Process: How Seth develops distinct character voices and why he prefers the label "Dark Fiction" over "Horror".📚 Book Hauls: Seth shares the classic titles he bought for his birthday, including Animal Farm and Frankenstein.Tune in for a mix of laughs, literary analysis, and a deep dive into the darker side of fiction!

Join us as we speak with author James Bow about his latest novel, "The Night Gir.l"#author #writer #fantasy #urbanfantasy

Join us as we catch up and unpack our holiday plans and promotions!

Join us as we speak with critically acclaimed author Kristine Jensen about her book "Wednesday Club"#writer #conversation #mondaymotivation #authors

Join us as we speak with author Rachel Burr about her book. #mondaymotivation #author #inspiration #writer

Join us as we speak with USA Today Bestseller Jeffery H. Haskell about his latest novel. #scifi #author #writer #mondaymovation

Join us as we check in on all the holiday markets and events for authors this holiday season! #authortalk #writers #holidaymarkets #events

Join us as we speak with YA author Thomas Cullen, who is a Federal Judge by day and an author by night. His debut novel, Charlie-Man, is a coming-of-age story about a hopeful story of one boy’s journey toward manhood in the American South, and a lyrical homage to the classic coming-of-age novels of years past.#authortalk #author #writer #YA

Join us as we speak with UK #1 Bestselling author Peter James about his novels, success and where he is going next. #author #motivation #writer #awardwinning

Join us as we speak with author Sharissa Bradley about her "Journey Back to Health," which is a powerful story that blends memoir and a practical guide to healing chronic illness. #author #writer #mondaymotivation #health #journey

Join us as we speak with author Dottie Lee about her children's book, but also about the events she has coming up in the Houston area. #authortalk #podcast #author #writer

Join us as we discuss bookstore tours and signings. Are they worth your time and effort?

Join us as we talk about Romanctasy with Russell. #authortalk #roamce #writer #podcast

Join us as we speak with Bill about his novel "Awakening to Ourselves"#podcast #writer #spiritual #authortalk

Join us as we speak with Jonathan about his latest children's book, " Who do you want to be?" The text is by Handel, but the 110 illustrations in "Who Do You Want to Be?" were generated by AI in a single day at a cost of $0.66. As kids decide who they want to be when they grow up, is AI narrowing the choices or creating new opportunities? #author #writer #childrensauthor #AI

Join us as we speak with James about his novel Killer App. #AI #authortalk #podcast #writer #author

Join us as we speak with Ryan about his latest novel and his path towards becoming a writer!#auhtor #writer #authortalk #mondaymotivation

Join us as we speak with Tara about her latest novel. #socialmediaeffect #prayfortexas #author #writer

Happy Birthday Aimee!!Join us in wishing Aimee a happy birthday and checking in with each other!

Join us and Mickey as we speak on changes in the industry.

Join us as we speak with CC about her latest upcoming book, "Caged." #author #upcoming #writer #mondaymotvation

Join us as we speak with USA Today Bestselling author Sarah Eden about her time-travel romance.#bestselling #romance #author

Join us as we talk with Ben about his first writer's conference and his journey towards becoming a published author.