What's Kraken with Jo Szewczyk

In this episode of What’s Kraken, Jo talks with Georgie Ray about RIP Man 2, indie horror, acting, and building characters from the inside out. From self-doubt on set to the joy of making art on a budget, this one gets personal, funny, and inspiring. Support the work at https://linktr.ee/EmptyhellSupport the new movie here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/z12/the-rip-man-2-rest-in-pain-againWatch the original The RIP Man: https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/the-r-i-p-manKey Moments Opening riff – Jo and Georgie jump right into RIP Man 2, indie filmmaking, and the fun of discovering new actors on the rise.The Ostrich breakdown – Georgie explains her short film The Ostrich as a mix of Fleabag and Black Swan, built around the “ostrich effect” and a darker, more gruesome edge than the trailer reveals.Female rage as a creative lane – Georgie talks about loving horror, writing female-rage characters, and how that energy keeps showing up in both her films and the roles she gets cast in.Stage vs. screen – From playing Feste in Twelfth Night to working on film sets, Georgie shares how theatre demands instant recovery while film becomes a long game of waiting, bonding, and trying to stay present.Actor self-doubt is real – One of the most honest parts of the episode is Georgie opening up about the inner critic, overthinking movement and performance, and how she physically shakes it off to get back in the scene.The character bible – Georgie reveals her detailed actor process: building a full notebook for each character, down to how they wake up and what their routine looks like, so the performance feels lived-in.Personal heart of the episode – Georgie reflects on how supportive her parents have been, and shares the advice she’d give her younger self: good things will come, love yourself, and love the people who love you.

In this episode of What’s Kraken, Jo sits down with filmmakers Madeleine Sims-Fewer and Dusty Mancinelli about their chilling new Shudder premiere, Honey Bunch—a psychological thriller exploring lost memories, experimental trauma treatments, and the dark underbelly of a marriage tested to its limits. They open up about their collaborative writing-directing process, the challenges of indie horror, and how personal dynamics shape their storytelling. No spoilers, just raw insight into crafting tense, hallucinatory cinema. Catch Honey Bunch now on Shudder! Check out more at https://linktr.ee/Emptyhell. We are Amazon Affiliates—if you use any Amazon links we share and make a purchase, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.Opening riff – Jo kicks off with wild energy, setting the stage for a candid chat with the Honey Bunch creators Insights– Madeleine and Dusty reveal how their real-life partnership influences the film's twisted relationship dynamics Personal story – The duo shares how their writing process evolves when directing together—collaboration, clashes, and creative breakthroughs Why it matters – From shorts to features--these two have resurrected the art of writing plots that twist as much as they matter.

In this episode of What’s Kraken, Jo surprises co-host Amelie with a deep dive into her fascinating life – from growing up in a historic French bed and breakfast to working hotels across Europe, Asia, and beyond. Amelie shares heartfelt stories of family work ethic, saving fiercely for independence, falling in love with Asia's community spirit, and her burning dream of owning a B&B that empowers others. From childhood hustles earning Toys R Us gift cards to navigating young adult struggles, this raw chat inspires dreaming big and grinding smart. Check out more at https://linktr.ee/Emptyhell. We're Amazon Affiliates – if you buy through our links, we earn a commission!KEY MOMENTS Surprise trap – Jo ambushes Amelie mid-movie hangout for an unplanned What's Kraken takeover Childhood hustle spark – Amelie greets guests at age 5, racks up Toys R Us gift cards from impressed English visitors Family work ethic insight – Growing up in a public bed and breakfast teaches discipline, politeness, and helping out from day one Young adult grind story – Saving fiercely at McDonald's, dishwashing gigs, and hostels to gain independence without burdening parents Asia love revelation – Why family-run businesses, friendliness, and community in Asia stole her heart and mirrored her upbringing

Jo goes FULL chaotic energy with Lee Hatfield (S.I.P.A. Paranormal Chronicles) as they unpack how Lee launched a paranormal podcast that exploded in 2025, booked guests until mid-January, and still finds time to get stroked by ghosts in creepy jails. From EVPs that make jaws drop to seeing a full apparition walk past his bed in New York, Lee spills the real tea on scientific investigating, time slips, and why patience + spreadsheets = paranormal gold. Jo admits he’s jealous Lee got ghost-touched and they both roast flashy ghost-hunting gadgets. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, this episode will make you think and laugh.Check out our other shows→ https://linktr.ee/Emptyhell (we’re Amazon Affiliates — if you click our links and buy stuff, we get a little kickback, thank you legends!)KEY MOMENTS Opening chaos – Jo can’t read Lee’s name, blames laundry list, instant friendship roast Lee’s origin spark – From one nervous episode with Jo to 47+ bangers and guests booked into 2026 Behind-the-scenes hustle – Spreadsheets, TidyCal, and the art of never ghosting your own guests Personal goosebump story – Lee gets gently stroked by a ghost...no, not that way! + full apparition in NY Why it matters – Real investigating means debunking first, wonder second — and that’s how you earn respect

Jo gets local—and real—with author Robert Howell in this surprising and heartfelt episode of What’s Kraken. From childhood storytelling to publishing paranormal thrillers, Robert shares how a single rejection letter helped shape his 50-year writing journey. They dive into the origin stories behind Blood Mansion and Blood Castle, the quirks of self-publishing, and the minefield of indie publishing contracts. Robert talks candidly about staying grounded through the highs and lows of book launches, the importance of research in fiction, and how his kids helped him re-enter the writing world. Plus, how a haunted-feeling property and a real-life “wind phone” inspired his creepiest books yet.KEY MOMENTS: Opening riff – Jo’s playful intro: “Today… I could just touch your house if I want to, Robert!” Guest’s big insight – Robert on keeping his first rejection letter for 50 years to remember the next step will be better. Behind‑the‑scenes moment – How Robert’s idea for Blood Mansion came from visiting a creeped‑out empty property during his job in property‑management. Personal story – Transitioning from sci‑fi short stories as a teen to a young‑adult urban fantasy novel and then into self‑publishing. Why it matters – The broader takeaway: writing is a long game, publishing contracts matter, owning your rights counts—and dreams don’t expire.👉 Books mentioned: Blood Mansion, Blood Castle, A Devil of a Time👻 Themes: ghosts, witches, horror grounded in reality, self-doubt, perseverance, and writing as survival🖊️ Find Robert at: storywriter.ca or @StoryWriter on all the socials🌐 And don’t forget: https://linktr.ee/EmptyhellWe are Amazon Affiliates—if we use an Amazon link and you click or buy, we do earn money.

Jo chats with Matt Henderson of Loke Battle Mats about building portable, erasable battle-map books, why modular tools beat bulky map tubes, and turning “players derailed my prep” into a feature. Matt also teases Loke’s party-at-the-table card decks—Deck of Many Insults and Dumb Dares & Silly Sidequests—plus the new Dungeon Designer toolkit for instant encounters and solo play. He shares his one-line advice to younger him: bet on yourself—be your own boss and set your destiny.👉 More from us: https://linktr.ee/Emptyhell💀 We are Amazon Affiliates. If you click or buy through any Amazon links we share, we may earn a commission.🔑 Key Moments From wargame mats to erasable RPG map books you can throw in a bag. Why modular, two-book spreads beat single giant maps for fast session pivots. Built-in QR codes for matching digital maps (VTT/online play). Deck of Many Insults and Dumb Dares & Silly Sidequests: party energy inside the RPG. Dungeon Designer: scenery + encounter cards + mini guide = instant dungeons & solo-ready play. Design ethos: make tools they want as players/DMs; ship quickly, iterate. Advice to younger self: start your own thing—“put your money on you.”

In this episode of What’s Kraken, Jo sits down with Derek Chung from Nomnivore Games to talk accessibility, inclusivity, and why fun should always come first in game design. From the origins of the “Nomnivore” name to building games that double as therapeutic tools, Derek shares how titles like Emberwind, Snack Attack, and Nomaventure are breaking barriers and bringing players of all ages and abilities to the table.👉 Explore more: https://linktr.ee/Emptyhell💀 We are Amazon Affiliates. If you click or buy through any Amazon links we share, we may earn a commission.🔑 Key Moments Origin story – How late-night MMO raids (and snacks) inspired Nomnivore. Design philosophy – Accessibility isn’t an afterthought; it’s the foundation. Games as therapy – Why Derek says “therapeutic,” not “therapy.” Catalog highlights – From Snack Attack to Emberwind, modular games for every player. Advice to his younger self – “Get more sleep now — you won’t later.” Why it matters – Games as community builders: no kid eats lunch alone.

Jo sits down with Michael from Weathered Dragon, a true craftsman who turned a personal Dungeons & Dragons passion project into some of the most stunning custom gaming tables on the market. From his Gen Con beginnings to barstool-height builds that actually save your back, Michael shares the journey of bringing artistry, woodworking, and community into every design.🎲 Check out Weathered Dragon at theweathereddragon.com or on Instagram @weathereddragon.👉 Don’t forget: we are Amazon Affiliates — if we share an Amazon link and you use it, we may earn a small commission.KEY MOMENTS Opening spark – Jo recalls spotting Weathered Dragon’s booth at Gen Con and instantly knowing it was “a table made for people like me.” From hobby to business – Michael explains how his Harbinger game table, built just for his family, launched a full-time craft. Gen Con lessons – From bad booth locations to building crowd energy, Michael breaks down the chaos of con life. Craft vs. commerce – Why Weathered Dragon tables blow away overpriced competitors, and what makes Michael’s barstool-height model unique. Passion for the build – Michael talks woodworking roots, dry-brush weathering, and why each table is one-of-a-kind. Community over sales – Customers become friends, even flying him out to California to play on their inaugural table. Advice to younger self – “Keep pushing through setbacks. Take the punches, then come back swinging harder.”

In this episode of What’s Kraken, Jo sits down with Kyona Jiles, award-winning romance and fantasy author of First Death and Second Chance. They dive into her creative escape into writing, her early struggles with vanity publishing, and the resilience it took to turn setbacks into award-winning success. From dark humor in grief to building entire worlds filled with vampires, shapeshifters, and sexy FBI agents, Kyona brings honesty, laughter, and wisdom to the mic.Check out Kyona's books here: https://amzn.to/46lvBDq👉 Follow all our madness here: https://linktr.ee/Emptyhell💀 We are Amazon Affiliates. If you click or buy through any Amazon links we share, we may earn a commission.🔑 Key Moments Opening riff – Jo pokes fun at mispronunciations before introducing Kyona. Origin story – Kyona shares how childhood contests and imagination led her to write. Family roots in fantasy – Dragons, unicorns, and a Wrinkle in Time set her path. Vanity publishing nightmare – How she got burned and the hard lessons learned. Award-winning redemption – From setbacks to winning both 1st and 2nd place in RWA’s Prism Awards. Teacher life vs. author life – Balancing the classroom with writing romance, suspense, and fantasy. Dark humor in grief – Her new project My Dead Sister transforms loss into a cathartic, witty narrative. Advice to younger self – Don’t try to fit in. Be yourself.

Jo welcomes Medium Jenny Lea, a psychic medium and empath whose journey from a childhood filled with ghost stories to professional readings is anything but ordinary. Jenny shares how a chance TV moment sparked her realization that she was a medium, the difference between empaths and mediums, and how she learned to protect and ground herself while working with spirit energy.They dive deep into: What it’s like to sense and communicate with spirits How empaths can navigate overwhelming emotional input Higher self readings and their surprising insights Encounters with deceptive or negative entities — and how to shut them down The science-meets-spiritual connection through quantum concepts Streaming live readings on Twitch and joining paranormal investigationsFrom her “two old Muppet men” spirit guides to her role in The Witching Hours Podcast, Jenny offers humor, honesty, and real-world advice for anyone curious about mediumship.🔗 Visit: MediumJennyLea.com for readings, classes, and streaming links.🎧 More episodes: https://linktr.ee/EmptyhellKey Moments: Opening – Jo meets Jenny Lea and unpacks what “medium” really means Family of believers – Growing up with openness to ghosts, aliens, and past lives The 2018 lightning bolt moment – Realizing she was a medium while folding laundry Empath vs. medium – Understanding the overlap and key differences Childhood challenges – Anxiety and overwhelm from absorbing others’ emotions From classroom to spirit room – Using empathy to support students as a teacher Bridging to mediumship – Ghost hunting, mentors, and professional training Protections and rituals – Candles, sage, palo santo, grounding, and energy bubbles Negative encounters – Spotting deceptive entities and using the “teacher voice” Higher self readings – What they are, how they work, and cryptic vs. clear messages Quantum connections – Time, space, and the spirit world Group investigations – Mediums working side-by-side in haunted locations Things that won’t click – Why automatic writing isn’t for everyone Advice to her younger self – “It’s okay to talk to people” Where to find Jenny – Twitch, podcasting, and her website

Jo welcomes Christopher and Lawrence Connolly, the powerhouse creative duo behind the upcoming novel Minutemen: Execute and Run (out October 14). Born from Christopher’s vivid character sketches and Lawrence’s storytelling, this action-driven tale follows a team of wounded warriors who gain incredible powers that last only 60 seconds — and then leave them completely vulnerable.The brothers share the story’s journey from art table to screenplay pitches in Hollywood, the pandemic delays that deepened the project, and their hopes for a full multimedia franchise — including a film, graphic novel, young reader adaptation, and even a game. Along the way, they open up about collaboration, values in storytelling, and why found-family dynamics are at the heart of Minutemen.🔗 Visit: MinutemenNovel.com for the trailer, pre-order links, and newsletter.🎧 All podcast links: https://linktr.ee/EmptyhellWe are Amazon Affiliates. If you click an Amazon link and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.Key Moments: Opening volley – Jo meets the Connolly brothers and their military-inspired superhero premise Origins in art – Christopher’s sketches spark a screenplay, then a novel Hollywood pitch to pandemic pause – From promising meetings to years of delays Teamwork is everything – The “60 seconds of power” concept and its human cost Franchise vision – Books, film, graphic novel, young reader edition, gaming potential Creative brotherhood – Trusting each other’s skills while protecting the core vision Values without preaching – Building unity and humanity into the story naturally Advice to their younger selves – Patience, persistence, and believing in the timing

Jo sits down with Colin Krawchuk, director of Jester 2—the best horror movie of the year (Jo's words, not just hype). From its humble beginnings as a Halloween short film to a full-blown feature with indie grit and real emotional pull, Colin breaks down how Jester 2 became a must-see slasher with a soul.🎟️ Catch Jester 2 in theaters nationwide September 15 & 16 —https://hubs.la/Q03xX7Wj0🧨 KEY MOMENTSSince these are all from the transcript, feel free to timestamp later: Jo's intro love-fest – Jo declares Jester 2 the best horror film he’s seen all year (and he means it) Short film to feature leap – Colin shares how a Halloween side project exploded into a feature backed by Epic Casting Max – Why the lead role made or broke the film, and how Kaitlyn Trentham nailed it beyond belief The Jester’s moral code – Colin breaks down how the villain isn't just scary—he's got layers and logic Max & Jester’s relationship – Inspired by Collateral, the push-pull dynamic gives the movie real emotional weight Advice to younger self – Never stop growing, never get complacent—Colin on constant learning and backyard filmmaking

What if the future of AI wasn’t built on silicon — but on living neurons? 🧠💻Jo sits down with Dr. Ewelina Kurtys from Final Spark, a Swiss startup pioneering the world’s first biohybrid computers. They dive into how neurons are sourced from human skin cells, why these living computers could be a million times more energy-efficient than current AI, and how philosophy is being brought in early to tackle ethical questions. From replacing faulty “neuro-parts” to the 10-year vision for bioservers, this is cutting-edge tech you’ve never heard of.Follow Final Spark at FinalSpark.com and check their active Discord community for real-time updates.🔗 All our links & more showsAs Amazon Affiliates, we may earn from qualifying purchases.Key Moments: Opening riff — Jo’s excitement meeting Dr. Kurtys What exactly is a living neuron computer? Sourcing neurons ethically from human skin cells How neurons “learn” and interact with hardware The 10-year vision for large-scale bioservers Bringing philosophers in early to address consciousness and ethics Replacing faulty neuron clusters — no “neuro dementia” risk Why biohybrid computing could solve AI’s massive energy problem

Jo sits down with longtime friend and creative powerhouse Paula Hightower, the mind behind InstantRealityShift.com. Paula shares her journey from music and web design to creating powerful Afformations — not just statements, but questions that spark your brain into making change possible.They dive deep into battling imposter syndrome, rebuilding self-confidence, and why these targeted mindset tools can transform your life. Paula also reveals how she blends cutting-edge tech with heartfelt creativity to make custom audios for health, success, love, and more.With decades of friendship fueling this conversation, you’ll hear candid moments, mutual admiration, and even Jo getting an on-air mindset upgrade.🔗 Check out Paula’s work: InstantRealityShift.com🎧 Explore all our links: https://linktr.ee/EmptyhellWe are Amazon Affiliates. If you click an Amazon link and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.Key Moments: Opening laughs – Jo & Paula joke about being friends since “the 1900s” From music to mindset – Paula’s path from performing to creating Instant Reality Shift The power of a question – Why affirmations work better when they’re questions Imposter syndrome, be gone – Paula’s personal transformation and self-confidence boost Tech meets soul – How she uses modern tools to help others heal and grow Creative roots – Music, art, and web design feeding into Paula’s process Life advice – What Paula would tell her younger self about self-love and confidence

In this enlightening episode of What’s Kraken, Jo sits down with Mary Van Doorn of SugarMamaStrong.com. A warrior on a 12‑year wellness journey, Mary shares how motherhood and a diabetes diagnosis sparked a complete life transformation. From triathlons at 215 lbs to founding a thriving women’s support group, she speaks frankly about emotional eating, mental health work, and community building. Learn how she launched Sugar Mama Strong, empowers thousands of women across Facebook and wellness groups, and launched the podcast Sick of Pricks and her upcoming book This Wasn’t in the Pamphlet. This episode brims with compassion, real talk, and movement forward—but especially heart. 🌟Link ➡️ https://linktr.ee/EmptyhellWe’re Amazon Affiliates—if you click or use an Amazon link, we may earn a commission.KEY MOMENTS Opening riff – Jo introduces Mary’s journey, setting the tone with energy and emotional honesty. Mary’s big insight – Realizing she couldn’t keep up with her kids as the catalyst for real change. Behind-the-scenes moment – Mary’s candid take on Weight Watchers: joining 15 times, reliance on exercise points, and sticky moment donuts. Personal story – Heartfelt reflections on diabetes diagnosis at 21, how it shaped her self-worth and mission. Why it matters – Mary’s creation of Sugar Mama Strong as a judgment-free community where people feel seen and empowered.

Jo dives into the strange and science-meets-spiritual world of the paranormal with Dr. Heather Leigh Carroll‑Landon, a researcher and ghost investigator who blends metaphysical studies with boots-on-the-ground evidence. From seeing spirits as a child to using fidget spinners as ghost tools, Heather brings decades of personal experience, academic study, and wild stories.She opens up about a powerful dream where a spirit warned her of a health crisis—and how that dream may have saved her life. Jo and Heather also unpack the creep factor of the Hat Man, why this shadowy figure shows up in multiple cultures, and how locations like ghost towns, petroglyph sites, and even ley lines might be tied to paranormal energy.This episode is equal parts goosebumps and grounding. Whether you’re a believer or just paranormal-curious, you’ll walk away with chills and new questions.KEY MOMENTS: Opening riff – A Coke Zero wardrobe malfunction kicks things off Personal story – Dr Heather shares a dream-visitation from a spirit during a major health scare Guest’s big insight – Paranormal research needs rigor, data, and respect Behind-the-scenes moment – A mysterious miner appears to a museum guest—no one was there Why it matters – How belief, intention, and repeatable methods bridge science and spirit👉 https://linktr.ee/Emptyhell🛒 We’re Amazon Affiliates—if you click or use a product link, we might earn a commission.

Jeremy Rudd — writer, director, actor, and all-around horror craftsman — joins Jo to talk about his debut feature DIE’CED: Reloaded. What started as a pandemic-fueled love letter to 80s slashers became a viral short, caught the eye of Dread Central & Epic Pictures, and is now a blood-soaked, Seattle-set horror romp hitting theaters August 8th and VOD August 12th.From building a “final girl” you can root for, to designing Benny the Clown’s creepy scarecrow look, Jeremy shares how he recreated the VHS-era horror feel while adding modern twists. Jo and Jeremy dig into the art of proof-of-concept filmmaking, the thrill of practical effects, and why the 80s were the perfect hunting ground for Benny’s rampage.There’s talk of sequels, advice to the younger self (“keep the grind alive”), and why a first-time director can still swing an EPIC-level scare.🎥 Watch DIE’CED: Reloaded in theaters August 8 or on VOD August 12 — and keep your eyes peeled for that sequel.https://linktr.ee/EmptyhellAs Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases — if you use an Amazon link from us, we may get a commission.Key Moments: Opening riff: Jo spots the Seattle 80s setting on the poster and is instantly hooked. Jeremy’s inspiration: 80s slashers on repeat during the pandemic lead to creating his own throwback killer. Proof of concept win: The short film goes viral, catching Dread Central & Epic Pictures’ attention. Benny the Clown’s look: A creepy mix of clown face and scarecrow body. Filming in the past: Dial phones, vintage Airbnbs, and a no-smartphone rule on set. Practical effects love: Makeup over CGI for a grittier, real horror feel. The sequel tease: More depth for Benny and the final girl. Jeremy’s advice: Keep going, stay focused, and push through the potholes.

You read that right—JD BARKER is in the Kraken lair. Jo sits down with the international bestselling author of Dracul, Forsaken, and The Fourth Monkey to talk horror, publishing, and why chasing fear is the real writer’s journey. JD opens up about how Dracula changed his life at a garage sale, nearly getting buried alive in hay bales as a kid (yes, really), and why he writes in Scrivener, on typewriters, and even legal pads—all to tap into a different voice.This episode goes deep on indie vs. traditional publishing, why JD launched his own Simon & Schuster imprint, and the real haunted island that inspired his new book Something I Keep Upstairs. Bonus? He gives killer advice for aspiring writers and shares the unbelievable moment he was handed Bram Stoker’s actual notes.🎧 Listen up, horror nerds. This one’s your love letter.🟣 All our links: https://linktr.ee/Emptyhell🛒 We’re Amazon Affiliates: Clicking and buying through our Amazon links helps support the show—thank you!⏱️ KEY MOMENTS 00:13 – JD Barker is HERE: Jo freaks out (appropriately) 01:36 – The garage sale Dracula that changed JD’s life 02:25 – “That was a job interview”: How JD got the Dracul deal 04:06 – Revisiting Forsaken: Cringe or career-launcher? 05:54 – Something I Keep Upstairs: The haunted island is real 10:34 – Childhood trauma: buried in hay, haunted forever 13:04 – Gen X horror hits different (yes, even Halloween 3) 17:02 – Why JD writes in Scrivener, typewriter, and legal pads 21:17 – Total creative control: How JD got his own imprint 23:08 – Indie vs. traditional: royalties, rights, and regrets 24:32 – Advice to younger JD: “I needed the fumbles” 25:43 – Where to find him (and yes, his site is 🔥). https://jdbarker.com/

Dr. Jo sits down with award-winning author and lifelong educator Dr. Randy Overbeck to talk about his chilling and thought-provoking Haunted Shores Mystery Series. These aren’t your average ghost stories—each novel dives into real societal issues like racial injustice, human trafficking, migrant abuse, and Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW), all wrapped in meticulously researched, historically-set mysteries.They dig into how a background in education shapes narrative depth, why setting a book in 1998 means saying goodbye to Google, and how a haunted athletic office kickstarts a story of justice from beyond the grave. Plus: why authenticity matters, how his characters evolve across books, and how his five-year-old character with ghost sight ups the emotional ante.This one is for the mystery lovers, the educators, the history nerds, and the folks who believe fiction can shine a flashlight on the things we try to forget.📘 Randy’s books & podcast: authorrandyoverbeck.com📖 Get Red Shadows at Saugatuck on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3IJyQfR📲 All our links + more: https://linktr.ee/Emptyhell🛒 We are Amazon Affiliates! If you click this link and buy, we may earn a commission. Thanks for keeping the ghosts well-fed and the podcast alive.

n this spine-tingling episode, Jo sits down with horror writer, podcaster, and screenwriter Justin Wood to explore the haunted roots of storytelling—from Southern Gothic folklore and ghostly childhood inspirations to self-publishing Needless Nightmares and crafting the screenplay Granny Willow. They discuss the evolution of writing style, the brutal honesty of editing, and how podcasting is all about the long game. Plus, Justin opens up about seasonal creativity, unexpected podcast hits (including a surprise 10K+ kid-friendly episode!), and the joy of doing it all just for the love of it.Whether you're into folklore, horror, screenwriting, or just the art of showing up and doing the reps—this one's for you. Dive in!🔗 Find everything we do right here: https://linktr.ee/Emptyhell🛒 We're Amazon Affiliates: If we mention or link to Amazon, clicking and buying helps support the show—thank you!Get a copy of Justin's book here.

Fantasy lovers, this one’s for you! Jo sits down with indie author Jaxon Schelhaas to talk worldbuilding, language creation, and the journey from handwritten notebooks to 600-page epics. Jaxon shares how Tolkien’s Silmarillion sparked his creative fire, the process behind his five-book fantasy series Lands of Ordia, and how he invented a full fictional language—complete with its own alphabet. It’s an inspiring deep-dive into creativity, consistency, and why you just need to keep writing.🎧 More interviews and chaos at: https://linktr.ee/Emptyhell📦 This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualifying purchases.⏰ Key Moments: 00:20 – Tolkien shirt? Confirmed. 01:10 – Jaxon discovers fantasy via The Silmarillion 04:00 – Writing three novels in spiral notebooks at age 13 06:30 – How Lands of Ordia got its name and scope 10:50 – From Iowa forests to 600-page tomes 13:00 – Building lore, cities, characters—and a magic system 15:00 – Creating an original language (symbols and all) 18:00 – Writing advice for younger self: “Just keep going” 22:00 – How moving from Iowa to Chicago shaped his storytelling 26:00 – Where to find Jaxon online + future book and language plans

Ready for a fang-tastic journey through Dracula’s homeland, Universal Monsters nostalgia, and real-life haunted events? Jo sits down with Charles Rosenay of DracTours—the original vampire vacation master—for a wild ride through horror travel, celebrity top-10 horror booklists, and convention chaos. From Romanian castles to Connecticut’s Paracon and Salem Horror Con, this ep is packed with spooky insight and behind-the-scenes tales from one of horror’s friendliest promoters.🦇 Planning your next creepy vacation? Curious how celebrities rank their scariest flicks? This episode slaps harder than a coffin lid in a thunderstorm.👻 More at dractours.com, ghosttour.com, and paraconn.org📲 Link up at https://linktr.ee/Emptyhell🧭 KEY MOMENTS: 00:00 – Charles’s horror book & love for Universal Monsters 06:40 – Vampire trivia on the tour bus!? 12:30 – The horror book born from celebrity “Top 10” lists 17:20 – Lists from Boris Karloff’s daughter, John Lennon’s sister, & more 18:20 – Paranormal + True Crime Con sneak peek (CT, July 12–13) 28:30 – How he designs vendor-first, fan-friendly cons 37:00 – Life tips from a decades-long horror fan’s journey

What do Victorian tea parties, buried skeletons under Philly sidewalks, and kosher cheesesteaks have in common? Public historian and founder of Offbeat Philly, Fayge, joins Jo to talk about the quirky, hidden, and jaw-dropping side of Philadelphia’s history. From guiding ghost-curious tourists past forgotten graves to designing historical adult coloring books (yes, really), this episode is a deep dive into the fun, freaky, and fascinating world of Offbeat Philly.🎨 Learn how Fayge crafts tours that balance fact and flair, why graveyards are everywhere, and which Philly cheesesteak actually counts.👟 Whether you're into dead presidents or vegan cheesesteaks, this one’s a walk through time—with laughs, drama, and sandwiches.🔗 Find Fayge at OffbeatPhilly.com and the full pod at https://linktr.ee/Emptyhell🧨 KEY MOMENTS: 2:00 — What makes Offbeat Philly... offbeat? 3:45 — Dead bodies under the sidewalks of Old City 5:50 — The mystery of the missing container of bones 10:00 — Arlington Cemetery’s hidden origin story 14:00 — The most unusual tour request ever 17:00 — The truth about Philly cheesesteaks (and sesame seed rolls?!) 22:30 — “Phillies Forgotten Dead” tour breakdown 30:00 — Why tour guides are really storytellers 34:30 — Fayge’s dream: coloring books for history nerds 36:20 — Where to find Offbeat Philly and get weird

Join Jo for a fascinating conversation with author Jack LaFountain about his latest book "Return to Deadwood" - a collection of paranormal Western short stories rooted in South Dakota folklore and history. Jack shares his unique approach to blending historical accuracy with supernatural elements, his annual pilgrimage to Wild Deadwood Reads festival, and how he creates authentic characters that wake him up at night with story ideas. From the mysterious Miniwashitu cryptid to unsolved World War II murders, Jack's work brings Native American legends and real historical events to life through a paranormal lens. Plus, discover how his grandson's third-grade story helped unlock a fantasy trilogy that had been stuck for years!## Episode Highlights- Jack's annual tradition of writing a new book for Wild Deadwood Reads festival during Wild Bill Hickok weekend- The "unnamed author" character who dies in every Deadwood book but keeps coming back- Discovery of the Miniwashitu- a spine-covered Missouri River cryptid that drives people insane if seen in daylight- How Jack incorporates real unsolved crimes, including South Dakota's oldest unsolved murder from WWII- Writing from Bigfoot's perspective and flipping the monster narrative- Characters that literally wake him up at night with story ideas- The difference between his fast-paced novels and tight short story collections- Transitioning from pen and paper to digital writing (and why Grammarly hates dialogue)- Publishing his first book at 50 and going full-time at 65 - proving it's never too late- How his grandson's story provided the missing piece for a fantasy trilogy- The challenge of editing other authors while maintaining his own voice- "Return to Deadwood" launching as an e-book the morning of this interview## Guest Information**Jack LaFountain** - Paranormal Western Author- Author of 17 novels and 5-6 short story collections- Specializes in supernatural Western stories with historical elements- Partner in publishing company, does first edits for other authors- Writes three blogs on a weekly schedule- Annual attendee of Wild Deadwood Reads festival in South Dakota## Book Information**Return to Deadwood** - Available now on Amazon (e-book launched day of interview)- Collection of dozen short stories based on South Dakota folklore and history- Features Native American legends, actual locations, and true crime elements- Part of Jack's annual tradition of writing for Wild Deadwood Reads festival## Key Advice"If you want to write, write, do it, and don't give up, no matter what. I didn't publish my first book until I was in my fifties and didn't start writing full time until I was 65."

Join Jo on What's Kraken as we dive deep with award-winning paranormal mystery author Phil Giunta, who made the fascinating journey from Star Trek fan fiction to publishing acclaimed novels like "Testing the Prisoner" and "By Your Side." Discover how Phil writes across multiple genres including science fiction, fantasy, horror, and detective fiction, following in the footsteps of literary giants like Ray Bradbury and Harlan Ellison. Phil shares insights on the paranormal mystery genre, his self-publishing journey, and the crucial importance of reading your work aloud. Learn about his protagonist Daniel's haunting by angelic and demonic entities, psychic medium Miranda's story of self-forgiveness, and Phil's evolution from a young writer influenced by critique partners to a confident author who knows when to hold the line on creative decisions. Whether you're an aspiring writer or paranormal fiction fan, this conversation is packed with practical advice.Key Topics Covered Phil's journey from fan fiction to award-winning original novels Paranormal mystery genre explained and explored Writing across multiple genres vs. specialization debate Self-publishing journey and re-editing older works The importance of reading your work aloud for flow Dealing with critique partners and beta readers effectively "Testing the Prisoner" - supernatural haunting story "By Your Side" - psychic medium redemption tale Building confidence as a writer and handling rejectionGuest InformationPhil Giunta - Award-Winning Paranormal Mystery Author Website: philgiunta.com Books: "Testing the Prisoner," "By Your Side," "Like Mother, Like Daughters" Awards: 8 combined awards for his paranormal mystery novels Published: 32 short stories across various anthologies and magazines Available on: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and major retailersConnect with Empty HellHost: Jo Szewczyk All Empty Hell Links: https://linktr.ee/Emptyhell What's Kraken Podcast: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Amazon

Join Jo on What's Kraken as we dive deep with thriller author John Bukowski, who made the fascinating transition from veterinarian to bestselling writer. Discover how his medical background fuels his techno-thrillers, including "Project Suicide" - a gripping tale about an Alzheimer's cure turned assassination weapon. John shares invaluable insights about the publishing world, from navigating traditional publishers to avoiding vanity presses, plus the brutal reality of rejection in the writing industry. We explore his research process, the importance of professional editing, and why starting your writing career at any age is possible. Whether you're an aspiring author or thriller fan, this conversation is packed with practical advice about contracts, beta readers, and building a sustainable writing career. John's latest releases include "The Peeper" and upcoming "Bad Pennies.Key Topics Covered John's transition from veterinarian to thriller writer How medical training enhances thriller writing authenticity "Project Suicide" - Medical techno-thriller about weaponized Alzheimer's cure Publishing industry realities: rejection, contracts, and publisher relationships The importance of professional editing and beta readers Research balance in fiction writing Starting a writing career at any age Current and upcoming book releasesGuest Information & LinksJohn Bukowski - Thriller Author Website: thrillerjohnb.net Amazon Author Page: jbukowskiauthor.com Latest Release: "The Peeper" (May 2025) Upcoming: "Bad Pennies" sequelConnect with Empty HellHost: Jo Szewczyk All Empty Hell Links: https://linktr.ee/Emptyhell What's Kraken Podcast: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Amazon

Join Jo as he sits down with Dan Henk, tattoo artist, author, and creator of the upcoming anthology "The Joke is on Mankind." Dan shares his incredible journey from being a blue mohawk punk rocker getting beaten up by nazi skinheads in 1980s Virginia to becoming a successful tattoo shop owner in Long Beach, New York.We dive deep into Dan's unique approach to his anthology - offering original illustrations worth $300-500 to every contributor instead of payment, his experiences interviewing with DC Comics and Penguin Books, and wild stories from the punk scene including nights at CBGB's and the 930 Club. Dan also discusses the evolution of tattoo culture from counterculture to mainstream, shares advice about persistence in creative fields, and reveals why "no" doesn't always mean never.Whether you're interested in horror anthologies, tattoo artistry, punk rock history, or the creative process, this episode delivers authentic stories and hard-earned wisdom from someone who's lived it all.

Jo interviews comedian Shawn Wickens about his upcoming performance at the Atlanta Fringe Festival (May 30-June 7, 2025). Shawn shares his journey from improv to stand-up, and how a stoned revelation led to his unique show "Secret Time Travel Meeting." Discover how Fringe Festivals have taken Shawn from New York to international stages. Learn about the lottery system for festival selection, audience interaction techniques, and how Shawn created merchandise before developing his show. This conversation offers insights into live theater, comedy development, and the spontaneity that makes performances special.Timestamps:00:01 - Introduction and Atlanta Fringe Festival announcement 00:36 - Explanation of Fringe Festivals worldwide 01:50 - Shawn's journey from improv to theater 03:32 - Experiences at Regina Fringe Festival 04:59 - "Secret Time Travel Meeting" show concept 05:37 - International Fringe Festival experiences 07:45 - First joke development story 10:04 - Performing for different audience types 12:48 - Story about a challenging private show 15:13 - Value of improv training for live performance 16:35 - Audience interaction techniques 17:32 - Origin of Time Machine Blueprints 19:09 - Creating merchandise before the show 21:27 - Philosophy on performing and travel 23:53 - Interactive elements (costumes, NDAs) 25:37 - Game shows as performance inspiration 28:30 - Advice: "Fear less, enjoy more" 30:26 - Upcoming shows and future plansKey Points: Shawn performs "Secret Time Travel Meeting" at Atlanta Fringe Festival (May 30-June 7) Show combines comedy with time travel discussions from a stoner's perspective Fringe Festivals use lottery systems, making them accessible to performers Shawn has performed internationally in Canada, New Zealand, and Australia Show encourages audience participation and costume-wearing Created timemachineblueprints.com and published a book before developing the show Improv background helped develop resilience in live performanceGuest Information:Shawn Wickens began with improv in New York (2004) before transitioning to stand-up. Creator of "Secret Time Travel Meeting" performed at Fringe Festivals worldwide. Owner of timemachineblueprints.com and author of the same-named book.Resources: Atlanta Fringe Festival (May 30-June 7, 2025) Time Machine Blueprints book on Amazon Instagram: @timemachinestoned Upcoming shows in New York, Rochester, Harrisburg, and potentially Estonia

Episode Description:On this episode of What's Kraken?, Jo talks with prolific author Armand Rosamilia who has published over 100 books. Armand shares how a childhood punishment introduced him to Dean Koontz and launched his writing career. Learn why crime thrillers earn him "10 times more" than horror, how he writes 400,000+ words annually using just two fingers, and the story behind his hit "Dirty Deeds" series. Armand also discusses his Twitch writing sessions and annual "MondoCon" writer's retreat.Key Timestamps: 01:21 - Dean Koontz and the summer punishment that created a writer 05:31 - Transitioning from horror to crime thrillers 08:58 - The birth of "Dirty Deeds" series 11:19 - Writing 400,000 words annually with two fingers 20:43 - Using Twitch for live writing sessions 24:11 - MondoCon writer's retreat 27:05 - Current project: "Down and Dirty 5"Key Points: Armand has published over 180 books and has been a full-time writer for 14 years Crime thrillers earn him 10 times more revenue than horror fiction Writes 1,096 words daily to reach 400,000+ words annually using just two fingers Created the "Dirty Deeds" series (12 books) about a hitman who rescues children Uses Twitch for live writing sessions three times weekly Hosts an annual writer's retreat called "MondoCon"Resources: Website: ArmandRosamilia.com Twitch: Armand_Rosamilia (Mon/Wed/Fri at 1PM EST) YouTube: Armand Rosamilia

In this engaging episode of What's Kraken?, host Jo Szewczyk sits down with Charlie Hall, a multi-talented creative force in the horror and paranormal world. Charlie discusses her journey from being the bassist of the all girl rock band The Suffrajets to her current work in horror films, including her role in "Party Politics" and being a PA in Director Jem Karto's "Lake on the Cabin." She shares fascinating insights about her lifelong experiences as a medium, starting from age three, and her family's spiritual legacy. The conversation delves into her recent zombie film experience, complete with memorable makeup mishaps, and her upcoming screening at HorrorCon UK. Charlie also opens up about her evolution as an artist, writer for Haunted Magazine, and her perspectives on the paranormal world, offering valuable advice about pursuing creative passions at any age.Key Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and zombie film discussion 02:30 - Charlie's experience with zombie makeup in "Party Politics" 03:42 - Discussion of Jem Karto's "Lake on the Cabin" and HorrorCon UK 08:03 - Charlie's artistic journey and background 09:42 - Early spiritual experiences and family background 14:43 - Intense paranormal experience at Crumlin Road Jail 20:18 - Career advice and future projectsKey Points: Charlie Hall's transition from signed musician (The Suffrajets) to horror film creator and writer Recent crew work in Director Jem Karto's "Lake on the Cabin" (screening at HorrorCon UK on May 18th at 4:30) Family background in spirituality (father is a druid, mother is a medium) Experience as a medium since age three Writing contributions to Haunted Magazine Upcoming projects including potential book and TV show about Northern Ireland's paranormal locationsGuest Information: Charlie Hall is a multi-faceted creative professional with experience in music, acting, writing, and the paranormal field. She's a brand ambassador for Haunted Magazine and has recently ventured into horror filmmaking. Her latest work in Jem Karto's "Lake on the Cabin" has already won three awards and will be screened at HorrorCon UK's 10th anniversary.Resources: Find Charlie Hall on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HauntedCharlieHall Haunted Magazine website: https://www.hauntedmagazineprintshop.com/ Independent Horror Society HorrorCon UK (May 18th screening)

In this episode of What's Kraken, host Jim Phoenix sits down with horror author Edward J. Cembal to dive deep into his creative process, the inspiration behind his acclaimed novel "The Monsters in Our Shadows," and his plans for future dark and macabre tales. Cembal shares insights on the importance of reading, the role of editors, and the challenges of balancing genre conventions with personal artistic vision. This captivating discussion offers a glimpse into the mind of a rising star in the horror fiction genre.You can buy Cembal's book here. (Note Amazon Affiliate Link)

Dive into the mystical world of exorcism with expert Sadhu Dah. Explore East-West spiritualism, real occult cases, and magical amulets. Uncover the truth behind exorcisms!For more of Sadhu check out his site: https://www.thesadhudah.com/

Dive into the chilling world of horror author and screenwriter Anthony M Carro. Uncover the secrets behind "Dreaded Invocations" and get exclusive writing tips from this master of terror.

Join Jim Phoenix on What's Kraken as he delves into the fascinating career of award-winning writer, producer, and voice actor Wren Valentino. Discover Wren's evolution from penning short stories to crafting compelling screenplays and movies. Learn about his breakthrough projects, the impact of industry icon Felissa Rose, and Wren's transition into voice acting. This episode offers a captivating look at the creative process and career development in the entertainment industry. Don't miss this inspiring conversation with one of the most versatile talents in the business! #WrenValentinoCareer #ScreenwritingAndVoiceActing

Prepare for a spine-tingling journey into the heart of small town America's darkest secrets! 🏚👻 On this episode of What's Kraken, host Jim Phoenix welcomes writer and investigator Dominique Mann, who shares bone-chilling personal encounters with local ghosts and historical hauntings. From abandoned schools to eerie hotels in the middle of nowhere, we'll explore the supernatural phenomena that make small towns a hotbed for ghostly activity.Dominique's firsthand experiences will leave you questioning the line between reality and the supernatural. Dominique's firsthand experiences will leave you questioning the shadows in your own backyard. Don't miss this haunting exploration of things that go bump in the night – and don't forget to share your own ghost stories in the comments! #SmallTownHauntings #GhostStories

Join host Jim Phoenix as he delves into the chilling world of horror with Lauren Jane Barnett, author of "Death Lines: Walking London Through Horror Cinema". Discover the eerie connections between London's landmarks and classic horror films, explore Barnett's "London Horror Movie Book Club" podcast, and get exclusive insights into her upcoming movie "Darner", featuring Friday the 13th star Adrienne King. From "The Witches of Sand" to Barnett's first horror convention appearance, this episode is a must-listen for horror aficionados and London history enthusiasts alike. Tune in for a spine-tingling journey through the streets of London and the silver screen!Catch up with Lauren Jane Barnett at her site: https://laurenjanebarnett.com/

Dive into the hilarious and thrilling world of “Clone Cops” with Danny Dones and Phillip Cordell. Join us as we dig into the moving making magic from thought to big screen! If you are a fan of comedy thrillers with just that right touch of Sci-Fi, then this is definitely your movie! Come for the hang and stay for the marshmallow helmet (helmet not included). After the interview, get into the action over at www.clonecopsmovie.com #CloneCops #ComedyThriller #TwistEnding

Prepare for spine-tingling tales as Barb Dexter unveils her shocking personal ghost encounters on T+E Channel’s gripping paranormal series, “My Haunted Hometown”. Don’t miss exclusive behind-the-scenes insights and emotional revelations that will leave you questioning reality. Check out Barb’s episode Friday, September 30th at 10 PM ET/PT. Catch the free preview on T+E Channel from Sept 2 to Nov 3 – your gateway to the supernatural! Tune in and share the thrills with #MyHauntedHometown and #TEonTV. Are you brave enough to watch?

Step into the mind-bending world of Eldritch Automata as we sit down with Game Designer Nick Francia at GenCon 2024! Uncover the secrets behind this Lovecraftian mecha-masterpiece and get a glimpse of what’s to come. In this exclusive interview, Nick Francia shares:• The intricate game development process• Inspirations behind the eerie Lovecraftian elements• Unique mecha-infused gameplay mechanics Calling all Lovecraft fans! Dive into a world where eldritch horrors meet steam-powered marvels. Eldritch Automata promises an unforgettable gaming experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Ready to embrace the madness? Check out our playable demo at […]

Dive into the magical world of “Empire Queen: The Golden Age of Magic,” the groundbreaking fantasy film that just swept Gen Con Film Festival 2024’s Best Feature Film award! Join host Jim Phoenix as he sits down with visionary filmmakers Chris Dane Owens and Jason Schulz to uncover the spellbinding journey behind this cinematic masterpiece. In this exclusive interview, discover: • The innovative special effects that brought the magical realm to life • How the team overcame unique filmmaking challenges • The intricate character development process that captivated audiences From groundbreaking storytelling to cutting-edge visuals, learn how “Empire […]

Dive deep into the chilling world of serial killers with Jim Phoenix as he welcomes the intriguing and brilliant Rhiannon D’Averc, author of the riveting book “Unmasking the Shadows: A Journey into the Minds of Serial Killers.” In this spine-tingling episode, Rhiannon unveils the dark psychology behind some of the most infamous serial killers in history, drawing from her extensive research and gripping narratives. You’ll get an exclusive peek into how Rhiannon crafts her compelling true crime stories, her personal encounters with the macabre, and what drives her passion for exploring these dark corners of human nature. From notorious figures […]

Dive into the quirky world of Munchkin Big Box with Steve Jackson Games’ very own Will Schoonover on our latest podcast episode. Get the inside scoop on your favorite role-playing game, discover behind-the-scenes secrets, and join the fun with insights that’ll make you the master of your next game night. Tune in now for a session full of laughs and strategy! Don’t forget to back the game here: https://www.backerkit.com/c/projects/steve-jackson-games/munchkin-big-box?ref=bk-discover-trending

If you’re having withdraws from T+E’s Spring Shivers? Don’t worry, we got you covered. On today’s What’s Kraken?, Jim sits down with the social media maven (and killer jump scarer), Krista Maryk. Check out this episode as you wait for Krista’s Haunted Hospital episode 7 to drop only on T+E! You can also catch Krista on insta: @hauntinglykrista

Don’t forget to check out Meg’s episode on T+E Channel starting May 10th! As you wait for this spookville show, why not check out the first episode of season 5 on April 5th at 10PM ET/PT only on T+E!

Hey there, fearless thrill-seekers! To get into gear for T+E’s Spring Shivers (150 hours of horror starting April 1!), we’ve got none other than the star of Season 5’s Haunted Hospital–Kim Kidson! Join us as we uncover the hair-raising experiences and bone-chilling encounters of someone who’s dared to explore the paranormal activity lurking within the haunted halls. Get ready to be spooked and intrigued as we chat with Kim about all things ghostly and ghastly! Don’t forget to check out Kim’s episode on T+E Channel starting April 12th! As you wait for this spookville show, why not check out the […]

Tonight’s guest is the one and only Harker Jones! A master of wit, a connoisseur of storytelling, and an all-around captivating personality, Harker is here to talk shop with everything from movies to books to small town wonders. All this and more on the next What’s Kraken!

Get ready to embark on an epic journey into the mysterious world of Mexican cryptids and mythology with our special guest, Robert Bitto. As an expert in all things cryptic and mythical, Robert is set to blow your mind with his wealth of knowledge and captivating insights. Join us as we explore the depths of Mexican folklore and uncover the secrets of legendary creatures. It’s gonna be a wild ride, so grab your gear and dive into the adventure with us!

Hey there, horror comic aficionados and eager supporters! Brace yourselves for an enthralling glimpse into the tumultuous and enthralling realm of Worthy Chaos comics. We’re thrilled to showcase the chaos comics characters and the spine-chilling narratives crafted by the brilliant Corissa Grant, the visionary force propelling Worthy Chaos comics into the limelight of the indie comics scene. During our recent interview, we had the honor of engaging with Corissa Grant, the esteemed comic mind behind Worthy Chaos comics. We delved into the heart of the latest comic issues and discussed the electrifying Kickstarter campaign that’s poised to revolutionize the indie […]

We’ve got none other than award-winning director, Stimson Snead on our What’s Kraken. We cover everything from indy film, stellar casts, and Tim Travers and the Time Travelers Paradox! All this and more on the next What’s Kraken! Where to find Stimson Snead If you want to know more about Stimson and Tim Travers & the Time Travelers Paradox, check out his website here: https://stimsonsnead.com/ and if you like comics (who doesn’t?!) give Bleeding Ink a try!

Welcome to our killer (puns!) interview with the exceptionally talented Cassie Keet, the maestro behind the critically acclaimed film, Scream Therapy. This genre-defying movie has already made waves in the international film circuit, captivating audiences with its unique blend of suspense, emotion, and raw power. Come have a listen as Jim and Keet talk about her bold and innovative filmmaking approach, the importance of a team, and how to use a cardboard cut out to the fullest. All this and more on the next What’s Kraken!