The Molten Truth

What if your first language wasn't spoken—it was signed?In this inspiring episode of The Molten Truth, Zoey Michaels welcomes bestselling author Maria Gallucci, who grew up as a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults) with American Sign Language (ASL) as her first language.Maria's story offers a rare glimpse into life between two worlds—the Deaf community and the hearing world. Raised by deaf parents, she learned early that communication is about far more than words. It's about presence, empathy, understanding, and making people feel like they belong.Drawing from the experiences that inspired her bestselling book, Raised in Silence, Maria shares how growing up in Deaf culture shaped her perspective on leadership, accessibility, inclusion, and authentic human connection. She also discusses the barriers the Deaf community continues to face, the role technology is playing in improving accessibility, and why her personal motto—"Just try."—has the power to transform relationships.Whether you're curious about Deaf culture, interested in American Sign Language, or simply want to become a better communicator, this conversation will leave you seeing connection in an entirely new way.In this episode, you'll discover:What it means to grow up as a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults)Why American Sign Language became Maria's first languageHow Deaf culture teaches empathy, resilience, and connectionThe importance of accessibility in everyday life and businessWhy inclusion begins with making an effortHow one simple act of kindness can make someone feel truly seenSometimes the greatest lessons about listening come from those who experience the world differently.

How many dreams have been abandoned because someone heard "no" one too many times?Michael Isaac Shokrian knows that feeling better than most. After years of rejection as a writer, building a successful career as an attorney, and balancing family life, he made an unexpected decision—not to give up on writing, but to create opportunities for writers everywhere.In this inspiring conversation, Michael shares his remarkable journey from immigrating to America as a young boy, to becoming a lawyer, novelist, editor, and founder of The Thieving Magpie literary magazine. Along the way, he reveals why rejection isn't the end of the story, how journaling transformed his life, why so many lawyers secretly long to create art, and what it really takes to build a creative life in today's world.This episode is a powerful reminder that dreams don't have expiration dates. Sometimes the path isn't straight, success rarely happens overnight, and the greatest opportunities come when we stop waiting for permission and build the door ourselves.Whether you're a writer, artist, entrepreneur, or simply someone wondering if it's too late to chase the life you imagined, this conversation will leave you inspired to keep going.Because the process isn't the obstacle...It's the reward.ThievingMagpie.orgmishokrian.com

What do hurricane evacuations, reality television, destination weddings, alligators, and mystery novels have in common? Author Sandy Malone.In this entertaining episode of The Molten Truth, Zoey Michaels sits down with Sandy Malone, former star of TLC's Wedding Island, journalist, editor, and author of the Gem of the Golden Isles series. Drawing from more than 500 destination weddings she planned in the Caribbean, Sandy shares the real-life experiences that inspired her novels, proving that truth is often stranger—and funnier—than fiction.Listeners will hear unforgettable stories about demanding brides, unusual wedding requests, family drama, and the challenges of life behind the scenes as a wedding planner. Sandy also discusses her move to historic Jekyll Island, Georgia, the fascinating history of the island, her experiences as the wife of a law enforcement officer, and how all of these elements have found their way into her fiction.The conversation takes a heartfelt turn as Sandy discusses her upcoming novel, Thicker Than Blood, inspired in part by her family's experiences with Alzheimer's disease and the complicated relationships that shape generations.Filled with laughter, storytelling, writing insights, and colorful island adventures, this episode is a must-listen for readers, writers, history lovers, and anyone who enjoys hearing how real life becomes fiction.Learn more about Sandy Malone and her books at sandymalone.com.

When A-M Mawhiney retired after a 40-year career as a social worker and university professor, she never expected to become a novelist. During the COVID lockdown, what began as an attempt at journaling turned into a creative journey that produced three books and an entirely new chapter of life. In this episode, A-M Mawhiney shares how her characters often surprise her, why she chose to write hopeful science fiction and fantasy rather than dystopian futures, and how a pair of determined preteens inspired her second novel. She also reflects on growing up in Sudbury, Ontario, witnessing one of the world's most remarkable environmental recoveries, and why community collaboration remains one of her greatest sources of hope. It's a conversation about creativity, reinvention, resilience, and the transformative power of stories.

What does it mean to truly find home—not just in a place, but in a culture, a calling, and within yourself?In this powerful episode of The Molten Truth, Zoey sits down with Scott Wooster, a South Dakota native whose life journey weaves together family legacy, personal struggle, and deep connection to Lakota culture. What begins as a conversation about his books quickly unfolds into something much deeper: a story of transformation.Scott shares how decades of working with Native youth, marrying into a Lakota family, and navigating profound personal challenges—including addiction, anxiety, grief, and raising children with chronic illness—led him down an unexpected path of healing. Through ceremonies, storytelling, and relationships that reshaped his worldview, he discovered meaning in places he never anticipated.This episode dives into:The generational loss—and revival—of Indigenous cultureThe emotional weight of identity, belonging, and inherited traumaHow storytelling can heal both individuals and communitiesThe unexpected lessons found in hardship, faith, and human connectionRaw, reflective, and deeply human, this conversation is a reminder that healing doesn’t come from a single moment—it’s a journey shaped by the people we meet, the stories we carry, and the courage to keep going.

In this deeply powerful episode of The Molten Truth, host Zoey Michaels sits down with serial entrepreneur and creative force Caramel Lucas. From a childhood shaped by trauma to building a life fueled by purpose, Caramel shares her journey through writing, comedy, podcasting, and entrepreneurship. She opens up about the importance of therapy, breaking generational cycles, and transforming pain into power. With honesty and heart, this conversation explores what it means to heal, grow, and inspire others—proving that your past doesn’t define you, but your purpose can.CaramelLucas.net

In this episode of The Molten Truth, host Zoey Michaels sits down with first-time guest Ben Leman—an entrepreneur, former Texas county judge and state representative, rancher, and now debut novelist. Ben shares his remarkable path from building a successful manufacturing business from his mother’s garage to serving a decade in public office, all while raising a family and living the rugged ranch life in Central Texas.Now stepping into the literary world, Ben discusses his upcoming novel Between the Times, the first installment in his Forged in Blood trilogy. Set in 1640s Scotland, the story explores identity, loyalty, and transformation through the lens of a Highland clan facing a changing world. With rich historical themes and deeply human conflicts, Ben reveals how his own life experiences shaped the narrative.Despite some technical hiccups during the recording, this conversation offers an authentic and engaging introduction to a multifaceted guest whose life story is as compelling as the fiction he writes.

The conversation explores the freedom and safety of exploring themes in science fiction and fantasy genres, the flexibility of genre classification, and the importance of choosing the right genre as a vehicle for the story.TakeawaysFreedom and safety in exploring themes in science fiction and fantasyFlexibility and importance of genre classificationChapters00:00 Exploring Themes in Science Fiction and Fantasy

The conversation covers topics related to joy, family, and the impact of art on personal growth.TakeawaysJoy can be found in spending time with loved ones and enjoying family moments.Engaging in art and creative expression can contribute to personal growth and development.Chapters00:00 Finding Joy in Everyday Moments

The conversation explores the impact of artistic expression on personal growth and development, emphasizing the transformative power of art in shaping individuals.TakeawaysArt as a means of personal growthExpression through art and its impact on personal developmentChapters00:00 Artistic Expression and Personal Growth

What does it really take to write and publish a book today? Zoey Michaels chats with author Brad Anderson about everything from sci-fi storytelling and creative inspiration to the realities of indie vs. traditional publishing. They explore how writers use fictional worlds to tackle real-life issues, why genres don’t have to box you in, and the unexpected challenges of getting your work seen. Along the way, expect humor, honesty, and a few surprising insights into the writing life.

Liisa Kovala shares information about the upcoming event 'Write On 2026' and its registration details. She provides the website name and encourages participation.TakeawaysWrite On 2026 event details sharedEncouragement to participate and registerChapters00:00 Right On 2026 Event Details

The conversation delves into the importance of letting go of negative self-beliefs and challenging them, as well as the idea of exploring new experiences to create the best possible life experience.TakeawaysLetting go of negative self-beliefsExploring new experiencesChapters00:00 Letting Go of Self-Beliefs

The conversation explores the idea of finding inspiration in frustration and the ubiquity of stories in everyday life.TakeawaysInspiration from frustrationStories are everywhereChapters00:00 Finding Inspiration in Frustration

The conversation explores the idea that inspiration can be found in anything, and stories are everywhere if we are open to noticing them.TakeawaysInspiration can come from anythingStories are everywhereChapters00:00 Finding Inspiration Everywhere

After a lighthearted opening on names, pronunciation quirks, and the surprising histories behind them, Zoey Michaels reconnects with returning guest Liisa Kovala for a deeper conversation about the writing life.Liisa shares updates on her latest cozy mystery releases and offers an inside look at the fast-paced reality of publishing a series. The discussion expands into the often-overlooked side of being an author—book coaching, managing creative workloads, and navigating the complex path from manuscript to published book.Together, they unpack the realities of self-publishing versus traditional routes, the challenges of building visibility through reviews and algorithms, and the importance of understanding the full lifecycle of a book launch.The conversation also explores creativity more broadly—where ideas come from, how everyday experiences (like driving or walking in nature) spark inspiration, and why protecting personal time is essential for sustaining creative work.With practical insights and relatable experiences, this episode offers encouragement for writers at any stage, while highlighting a simple truth: creativity thrives when we make space for it—and when we’re willing to keep trying, even when the path isn’t clear.

The author discusses the realization of her own midlife experience through writing and the inspiration drawn from personal life events and observations.TakeawaysSelf-realization through writingDrawing inspiration from personal experiencesChapters00:00 Midlife Epiphany

The conversation delves into the unexpected outcome of a book that was intended to be a love story but turned out to be something else entirely. It explores the theme of self-love and the humor in the author's attempt at writing a romance.TakeawaysSelf-loveUnexpected outcomesChapters00:00 The Unintended Love Story

The conversation explores the practice of making a daily list of accomplishments, regardless of their size, and the impact of acknowledging small achievements on one's sense of productivity and fulfillment.TakeawaysDaily list of accomplishmentsRecognizing small achievementsChapters00:00 Recognizing Achievements

D.C. Gomez's book was initially intended to be a love story but turned out to be something else entirely. The journey of self-love and the unexpected genre shift are the main takeaways from the conversation.TakeawaysSelf-loveUnexpected genreChapters00:00 The Misunderstood Love Story

What do you get when you mix a talking cat, a reluctant “cat lady,” small-town Texas, and a million free books? A wildly entertaining conversation with author D.C. Gomez.In this episode, Zoey Michaels chats with D.C. about her quirky characters, urban fantasy worlds, and the hilarious inspiration behind her Cat Lady series. They swap stories about moving around, finding your voice, and how real life (even the weird parts) sneaks into fiction.D.C. also opens up about her writing journey, managing multiple book series, and learning to celebrate small wins—plus the truth behind that unforgettable million-book giveaway.Expect laughs, writing insights, and a whole lot of personality in this fun and honest episode.

In this heartfelt episode, Zoey Michaels sits down with debut novelist Kristine Jensen to explore the journey of writing her first book later in life—and the courage it takes to finally put your story into the world. Inspired by real-life women’s clubs from the 1960s, Wednesday Club celebrates friendship, resilience, and the power of community. From navigating self-publishing and avoiding scams to building meaningful connections (even on airplanes), this conversation is a reminder that it’s never too late to start over—and that the right people can change everything.

What the world sees... isn't always the full story.In this powerful bonus episode, the lives of Gilda Radner and Chadwick Boseman reveal a shared Truth about illness that often goes unnoticed.Her symptoms didn't make sense - but she refused to ignore them. His struggle remained unseen - carried with a strength few could comprehend.Different paths. Different choices. But both shaped by something the world could not see.This episode explores the space between what is visible...and what is real - where persistence, intuition, and resilience can make all the difference.Because sometimes, the most important signals aren't the ones others recognize - they're the ones you feel, long before anyone else does.

The episode discusses the private battle of an actor with cancer, highlighting the impact of his privacy on public awareness and the misconception of equating fitness with health.TakeawaysPrivacy and illnessImpact of privacy on public awarenessChapters00:00 Introduction and Content Warning

An actress, known for her gift of laughter, experienced unexplained symptoms that led to an ovarian cancer diagnosis. Her openness about her illness changed the conversation around diagnosis and increased awareness about ovarian cancer. Listening to the body's signals and the impact of awareness are key takeaways from her story.TakeawaysImportance of listening to the body's signalsThe impact of increased awareness around ovarian cancerChapters00:00 The Gift of Laughter

Why We Ignore What We Know Is Right (And How Sci-Fi Exposes It)Award-winning sci-fi writer Lance Robinson joins the show to talk about the uncomfortable truth at the heart of his stories: humans often know what to do—but don’t do it. Through fascinating concepts like nomadic planets and environmental collapse, this episode blends storytelling, psychology, and creativity into a conversation that’s as entertaining as it is thought-provoking.

The conversation covers the Writers of the Future workshop in Los Angeles and the supportive community of writers that the program fosters. It also highlights the exchange of feedback and critique among writers.TakeawaysWriters of the Future workshop in Los AngelesSupportive community of writersChapters00:00 Writers of the Future Workshop in Los Angeles

The conversation delves into the concept of tidally locked planets in science fiction and the challenges of living on such planets. It explores the premise of a tidally locked planet, the revelation about the planet's rotation, and the challenges faced by the characters living on the planet. Additionally, it discusses the possibilities of new world building in the context of such planets.TakeawaysTidally locked planets in science fictionChallenges of living on a tidally locked planetChapters00:00 Tidally Locked Planets in Science Fiction

The conversation delves into the challenges of decision-making and the use of science fiction as a tool to address real-world problems. It also explores the inspiration behind the author's work and the process of illustration for his stories.TakeawaysChallenges in decision-makingScience fiction as a tool for addressing real-world problemsChapters00:00 Challenges in Decision-Making

The conversation delves into the challenges of human decision-making and the role of science fiction in addressing real-world problems through metaphor and analogy.TakeawaysUnderstanding human behaviorThe role of science fiction in addressing real-world problemsChapters00:00 Understanding Human Behavior and Decision-Making

The art of storytelling goes beyond plot twists, focusing on character depth and reader engagement.TakeawaysCharacter depth is essential for reader engagementStorytelling is not solely reliant on plot twistsChapters00:00 The Art of Storytelling

Lance Robinson discusses the influence of Africa on his writing, highlighting his professional background in Kenya, the impact of living in Africa, and his love for the place. He also shares his experiences with African wildlife and culture, particularly in East Africa and The Gambia. Additionally, he talks about the impact of apartheid on his work and shares a story set in an alternate world where apartheid did not fall.TakeawaysAfrica's influence on writingAfrican wildlife and cultureImpact of apartheid on storytellingChapters00:00 Influence of Africa on Writing

The conversation explores the dangers of combined drug intoxication and the risks associated with combining medications. It delves into the stories of two famous individuals and the patterns of medication use that led to their tragic endings. The discussion emphasizes the need for awareness and caution when it comes to combining medications, even when they are legally prescribed.TakeawaysCombined drug intoxicationRisks of combining medicationsChapters00:00 Two Lives, One Danger05:38 Behind the Diagnosis

The podcast episode delves into the hidden truth behind the public image of an actress and the impact of fame on her life. It also highlights the dangers of underestimating the impact of medication interactions and the warning signs to watch out for.TakeawaysFame and its ImpactMedication InteractionsChapters00:00 The Hidden Truth

The conversation emphasizes the importance of focusing on the positives and appreciating the good things around us, rather than getting caught up in the negatives. It highlights the value of gratitude and a positive mindset in improving overall well-being.TakeawaysFocus on the positivesAppreciate the good things around usChapters00:00 Appreciating the Good Stuff

Alan's journey from radio producer to radio host and the success of his show 'House of Mystery'. He discusses the value of constructive feedback and the surprise of his own success. He also emphasizes the non-political nature of his show.TakeawaysRadio show successValue of constructive feedbackChapters00:00 From Radio Producer to Radio Host34:46 Non-Political Nature of the Show

The conversation delves into the significance of understanding historical context and the challenges of avoiding judgment based on a modern perspective. It explores the idea of living in a different time, the importance of historical context, and the process of adapting to change.TakeawaysUnderstanding historical contextAvoiding judgment based on modern perspectiveChapters00:00 Living in a Different Time

The conversation covers the surprising turns in Alan's career, the impact of politics on media, and the historical perspective on economic challenges. It also delves into the theme of perseverance and the passage of time.TakeawaysSurprising career turnsImpact of politics on mediaHistorical perspective on economic challengesPerseverance and the passage of timeChapters00:00 Surprising Career Turns

The conversation delves into the fascination with unsolved mysteries and the importance of remaining neutral in investigations. Alan expresses his love for mysteries and the stories behind them, emphasizing his neutrality in exploring different viewpoints. Zoey agrees and highlights the significance of staying open-minded during investigations to avoid bias and ensure a fair process.TakeawaysNeutral InvestigationOpen-mindednessChapters00:00 The Love for Unsolved Mysteries

The conversation explores the timeless nature of societal issues and the recurring themes in newspapers and articles. It highlights the similarity between past and present concerns, such as unemployment, oil and gas, war, immigration, race, and gay rights.TakeawaysTimeless nature of societal issuesSimilarity between past and present concernsChapters00:00 Timeless Societal Issues

The conversation delves into the impact of characters and their ability to connect with people, regardless of their role or setting. It also explores the significance of character identity in relation to time and place.TakeawaysCharacter connectionIdentity and timeChapters00:00 The Impact of Characters

The conversation delves into the importance of understanding historical context and the impact of setting and timing on behavior. It emphasizes the need to consider the circumstances and environment in which people lived to comprehend their actions and decisions.TakeawaysImportance of historical contextImpact of setting and timing on behaviorChapters00:00 Impact of Setting and Timing on Behavior

The conversation delves into the disturbing reality of cult recruitment and the acceptance of such involvement by parents. It sheds light on the experiences of individuals who were introduced to cults at a young age and the societal acceptance of this behavior.TakeawaysParental involvement in cult recruitmentAcceptance of cult involvementChapters00:00 Cult Recruitment

The conversation explores the cultural and historical events of the 1960s, with a focus on Manson's impact on the era.TakeawaysCultural and historical events of the 1960sImpact of Manson on the eraChapters00:00 The 1960s Cultural Landscape

The conversation explores the experience of living in the 60s and the importance of historical context in understanding people's actions.TakeawaysDifferent world in the 60sImportance of setting and timingChapters00:00 Life in the 60s as a 20-Year-Old

The conversation delves into the demanding nature of full-time work as a radio show host and writer, highlighting the commitment and passion required for both roles.TakeawaysFull-time commitmentPassion for workChapters00:00 The Demands of Full-Time Work

The book 'Peace, Love, and Murder' delves into the time period of 1965 to 1970 in San Francisco, exploring the moon landing, race riots, hippie movement, and the Manson case. It provides insight into how Manson was manipulated and got away with his actions.Takeaways1965-1970 San FranciscoManson's manipulationChapters00:00 The Impact of Historical Events on Manson's Actions

The conversation delves into the idea of different perspectives and the impact of setting and timing on people's lives. It explores the contrast between different eras and the significance of understanding the context in which people lived.TakeawaysDifferent perspectivesImpact of setting and timingChapters00:00 The Impact of Setting and Timing

The conversation delves into the importance of understanding daily life, cultural exploration, and character growth through empathy and imagination.TakeawaysEmpathyCharacter developmentChapters00:00 Character Growth

The conversation delves into the connection between the hippie movement and violence, as well as the misrepresentation of the hippie movement on TV.TakeawaysHippie movement and violenceMisrepresentation of the hippie movement on TVChapters00:00 The Hippie Movement and Violence