Curious about the real stories behind the writers you love? In this inspiring Author Express episode, host Kathleen Basi welcomes Virginia McCullough, a powerhouse in both fiction and nonfiction who’s penned over 150 books! Virginia shares the unexpected ways her background in classical ballet shaped her discipline as a writer and recounts how a life-changing move and tough circumstances pushed her into a long career supporting her family through writing alone. Hear about her journey from ghostwriting and editing to crafting women’s fiction—particularly her novel "Amber Light," which explores themes of hope, healing, and second chances.

Interested in what connects a heroine’s journey with real-life trials and triumphs? Tune in for thoughtful reflections on storytelling, resilience, and personal growth, and unlock the secrets to a writer’s longevity and passion.

Virginia McCullough is an award-winning author and ghostwriter of both nonfiction and fiction. She’s served as a ghostwriter or “book doctor” for professionals in many fields, including healthcare, psychology, law, business, and professional speaking, and she’s co-authored more than a dozen books with experts. She currently writes women’s fiction and multigenerational series romance for Harlequin’s Heartwarming line. Set on the shores of lakes, rivers, or oceans, Virginia’s romances and women’s fiction, such as AMBER LIGHT and ISLAND HEALING, feature relatable characters facing and overcoming everyday challenges, and her themes always come back to hope, healing, and plenty of second chances.

Born and raised in Chicago, Virginia started her family there, but then spent years on the move. Home has been an island in Maine, coastal Maryland, the U.S.V.I, and the mountains of Western North Carolina. Currently living in Northeastern Wisconsin, Virginia is a member of the Authors Guild (AG), the Women’s Fiction Writers Association (WFWA), and Romance Writers of America (RWA). Unlike so many of her talented colleagues, she’s not a gourmet cook, a gardener, a knitter, or a pet parent, but Virginia’s interest in politics started in the ‘60s and never let up. She also walks on local trails and loves nothing more than hanging out with other writers.

Sign up for Virginia’s newsletter, learn more about Amber Light and her other books, and check out her workshops and resources for writers here: www.virginiamccullough.com. Find her on Facebook: Virginia McCullough

Author and musical composer Kathleen Basi is mother to three boys and one chromosomally-gifted daughter. Her debut novel, A SONG FOR THE ROAD, follows a musician on an unconventional road trip. Bestselling author Kerry Anne King writes, “In a novel filled with music, heartbreak, and surprising laughter, Basi takes us on a journey that encompasses both unimaginable loss and the powerful resilience of the human heart.”

Meaty, earnest, occasionally humorous, and ultimately uplifting, Kathleen’s fiction highlights the best within ourselves and each other. She writes monthly reflections on life, writing and beauty on her newsletter. Subscribe at https://kathleenbasi.substack.com/. 

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Author Express wherever you listen to podcasts and to follow us on Instagram @AuthorExpressPodcast

Learn more about our hosts, the guests we've had, and their books -

https://linktr.ee/AuthorExpressPodcast

On this engaging episode of Author Express, host Kathleen Basi welcomes Melissa R. Collings, an award-winning author and self-described “unicorn” of Nashville. Discover the creatively charged vibe of Nashville beyond its country music roots, and hear how Melissa’s background as a spine surgery physician associate influences her writing. The conversation teases at her emotional and witty novel, "The False Flat," inspired by real-life cycling stories and her own biracial identity. Wondering how a Cap’N Crunch cameo or a wild Bonnaroo festival scene fits into the story? Find out how Melissa faces complex themes like social anxiety, belonging, and finding light in dark times. If you crave authentic author insights, personal reflection, and the perfect blend of romance and drama, this episode will inspire and surprise you.

Melissa R. Collings is an award-winning author and former spine surgery physician associate who traded the OR for the page—but brought the scalpel-sharp emotional and psychological depth with her. A biracial writer with an endless fascination for life’s contradictions, she writes stories that reflect complex relationships, rich representation, and the many ways identity shapes who we are. Her novels will make you laugh, wreck you a little, and stay with you long after the last page—always balancing light and dark, laughter and heartbreak, glitter and charcoal smears. When she’s not writing or plotting, you can find her chasing her two kids in Nashville, studying preventative health, or losing herself in a painting. Her imagination never fails to get her into trouble, and she lives by the philosophy: nothing is impossible, and everything is better with glitter—except surgical wounds.

You can find Melissa online or subscribe to her weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes bookish fun, medical moments, and reader extras:

Newsletter: melissacollings.com/newsletter

Website: melissacollings.com

Facebook: @MelissaRCollingsAuthor

Instagram: @melissarcollings

Support your local bookstore & this podcast by getting your copy of The False Flat at Bookshop.org

Author and musical composer Kathleen Basi is mother to three boys and one chromosomally-gifted daughter. Her debut novel, A SONG FOR THE ROAD, follows a musician on an unconventional road trip. Bestselling author Kerry Anne King writes, “In a novel filled with music, heartbreak, and surprising laughter, Basi takes us on a journey that encompasses both unimaginable loss and the powerful resilience of the human heart.”

Meaty, earnest, occasionally humorous, and ultimately uplifting, Kathleen’s fiction highlights the best within ourselves and each other. She writes monthly reflections on life, writing and beauty on her newsletter. Subscribe at https://kathleenbasi.substack.com/. 

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Author Express wherever you listen to podcasts and to follow us on Instagram @AuthorExpressPodcast

Learn more about our hosts, the guests we've had, and their books -

https://linktr.ee/AuthorExpressPodcast

Ready for a heartfelt author interview with a twist of sisterhood and adventure? In this episode of Author Express, Catherine Matthews—award-winning indie author—talks about her new novel that brings together estranged sisters for an unforgettable road trip across four states. Catherine opens up about the Pacific Northwest’s unique inspiration, the wisdom of embracing your voice, and the magic of writing communities. Plus, if you love stories where dogs have just as much personality as their human companions, don’t miss this chat!

Want to know what sparked a story filled with secrets, forgiveness, and fresh starts? Tune in for teasers on Catherine’s creative process and her most influential book picks. Perfect for fans of women's fiction, family dramas, and anyone who believes the journey is just as important as the destination.

A former educator, coach, and school administrator, Catherine Matthews combined her teaching and project management experience with her writing craft to become an award-winning indie author. After her debut, Releasing the Reins, won five, she decided to indie publish her second novel, Roadside Sisters, as well. Catherine writes stories of strong women finding the courage to face the storm and live their dreams—usually in the company of a faithful hound. She embodies this as an indie author. In addition to writing, Catherine serves as a board member and the Vice President of Technology for the WFWA. An early riser, she begins each day writing with colleagues across the globe—always in the company of her two favorite hounds, Delta and Wally.

Connect with Catherine:

Website- catherinematthewsauthor.com

Facebook- Catherine Matthews Author

Instagram- @catherinematthewsauthor

Support your local bookstore & this podcast by getting your copy of Roadside Sisters at Bookshop.org.

Kristi Leonard is a modern Renaissance woman deeply rooted in the book world. When she's not immersed in crafting novels, she's orchestrating writing retreats through her business, Writers in the Wild, or lending her voice to non-fiction audiobooks. She leads the Women’s Fiction Writers Association as the president of the board, and interviews her writer pals as one of the hosts of the Author Express Podcast. She will start querying her first book in 2024.

Beyond the realm of words, Kristi embraces the Florida sunshine by hiking with her writer-hiker group and leisurely walks on the beach. She and her husband juggle a couple side businesses and take turns sharing the couch with their goofy Golden-doodle, Maddie. Kristi enjoys travel adventures with her twin sister and living vicariously through her grown children. You can learn more about her and connect at: https://linktr.ee/kristileonard.

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Author Express wherever you listen to podcasts and to follow us on Instagram @AuthorExpressPodcast

Learn more about our hosts, the guests we've had, and their books -

https://linktr.ee/AuthorExpressPodcast

Meet Suzanne Woods Fisher, best-selling author of more than 40 books, as she chats with Kathleen Basi on this exciting episode of Author Express! Tune in to hear about Suzanne’s surprising journey from magazine writing in Hong Kong to crafting novels inspired by her large family and her travels. You’ll get a sneak peek at her latest gripping novel set in the wilds of Grand Teton National Park—a story about a determined zoo photographer, a legend of a grizzly bear, and a mysterious ranger.

Interested in behind-the-scenes looks at the writing process, juggling family life with a prolific writing career, or how national parks spark bestselling stories? This episode is full of creative inspiration and heartfelt moments. Don’t miss hearing how a world map in Hong Kong, a bear, and an earthquake on a cruise all play a part in Suzanne’s tales!

Suzanne Woods Fisher is a bestselling, award winning author of more than forty books, fiction and non-Fiction. She lives in California with her very big family…all of whom provide endless grit for the oyster. She loves to connect with readers! You can find her at www.suzannewoodsfisher.com and follow her on Instagram @suzannewoodsfisher.

Support your local bookstore & this podcast by getting your copy of Capture the Moment at Bookshop.org

Author and musical composer Kathleen Basi is mother to three boys and one chromosomally-gifted daughter. Her debut novel, A SONG FOR THE ROAD, follows a musician on an unconventional road trip. Bestselling author Kerry Anne King writes, “In a novel filled with music, heartbreak, and surprising laughter, Basi takes us on a journey that encompasses both unimaginable loss and the powerful resilience of the human heart.”

Meaty, earnest, occasionally humorous, and ultimately uplifting, Kathleen’s fiction highlights the best within ourselves and each other. She writes monthly reflections on life, writing and beauty on her newsletter. Subscribe at https://kathleenbasi.substack.com/. 

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Author Express wherever you listen to podcasts and to follow us on Instagram @AuthorExpressPodcast

Learn more about our hosts, the guests we've had, and their books -

https://linktr.ee/AuthorExpressPodcast

Looking for your next read or some creative inspiration? This episode of Author Express features Jennifer Jabaley, whose new domestic suspense book is already causing a stir. Kristi Leonard invites Jennifer to talk about her unforgettable characters, managing multiple perspectives, and the “explosive town scandal” at the heart of her story. Jennifer shares personal anecdotes about parenting, her transformation as a writer, and the moment a real-life sports rivalry sparked her imagination. You’ll also hear about the joy of small-town book launches, finding optimism in tough situations, and which books gave Jennifer “permission” to explore the darker side of family life. If you love book clubs, thrillers, or just a good behind-the-scenes chat, don’t miss this episode!

Jennifer Jabaley is the award winning author of young adult novels, Lipstick Apology and Crush Control. She won Georgia Author of the year and was nominated for Pennsylvania Reader's Choice award. Jen is a practicing optometrist. She brings sharp focus to eye care by day and storytelling by night. She lives in the north Georgia mountains with her sports obsessed family and two rescue dogs. What's Yours is Mine is her debut adult novel.

Connect with Jennifer:

Website- www.jenniferjabaley.com

Instagram- @jabaleyjennifer

Support your local bookstore & this podcast by getting your copy of What's Yours Is Mine at Bookshop.org  

Kristi Leonard is a modern Renaissance woman deeply rooted in the book world. When she's not immersed in crafting novels, she's orchestrating writing retreats through her business, Writers in the Wild, or lending her voice to non-fiction audiobooks. She leads the Women’s Fiction Writers Association as the president of the board, and interviews her writer pals as one of the hosts of the Author Express Podcast. She will start querying her first book in 2024.

Beyond the realm of words, Kristi embraces the Florida sunshine by hiking with her writer-hiker group and leisurely walks on the beach. She and her husband juggle a couple side businesses and take turns sharing the couch with their goofy Golden-doodle, Maddie. Kristi enjoys travel adventures with her twin sister and living vicariously through her grown children. You can learn more about her and connect at: https://linktr.ee/kristileonard.

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Author Express wherever you listen to podcasts and to follow us on Instagram @AuthorExpressPodcast

Learn more about our hosts, the guests we've had, and their books -

https://linktr.ee/AuthorExpressPodcast

Explore the creative heartbeat of the Midwest in this Author Express episode featuring Sara Brunsvold, author of The Atlas of Untold Stories. Uncover how her roots on a multigenerational dairy farm in rural Missouri and her connections to Mark Twain’s hometown shaped her approach to storytelling and character development. Sara offers a glimpse into her latest women’s contemporary fiction, weaving themes of family, faith, and the stories we all keep hidden.

Curious about the inspiration behind her memorable characters and the powerful mother-daughter relationships at the story’s core? Tune in as Sara shares little-known details about her writing process, how she balances life with teenage daughters, and why Little Women continues to inspire her. Ready for a unique literary road trip across America’s heartland? Don’t miss out—this is a must-listen for fans of family fiction, book lovers, and Midwest literature enthusiasts alike.

Sara Brunsvold is the Christy Award-winning author of The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip and The Divine Proverb of Streusel. She creates stories that boldly engage contemporary issues through the lens of hope and unshakable faith. Her passion is to connect with readers first through books, then through meaningful conversation. She lives with her family in Kansas.

Connect with Sara:

Website- sarabrunsvold.com

IG- @sara_brunsvold

FB- Sara Brunsvold, Author

Support your local bookstore & this podcast by getting your copy of The Atlas of Untold Stories at Bookshop.org

Author and musical composer Kathleen Basi is mother to three boys and one chromosomally-gifted daughter. Her debut novel, A SONG FOR THE ROAD, follows a musician on an unconventional road trip. Bestselling author Kerry Anne King writes, “In a novel filled with music, heartbreak, and surprising laughter, Basi takes us on a journey that encompasses both unimaginable loss and the powerful resilience of the human heart.”

Meaty, earnest, occasionally humorous, and ultimately uplifting, Kathleen’s fiction highlights the best within ourselves and each other. She writes monthly reflections on life, writing and beauty on her newsletter. Subscribe at https://kathleenbasi.substack.com/. 

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Author Express wherever you listen to podcasts and to follow us on Instagram @AuthorExpressPodcast

Learn more about our hosts, the guests we've had, and their books -

https://linktr.ee/AuthorExpressPodcast

In this episode of Author Express, host Kristi Leonard sits down with Croatian novelist and certified book coach Lidija Hilje for a rich conversation filled with unique insights. Discover what makes Croatia’s laid-back “pomalo” lifestyle so memorable, and get a glimpse of how Lidija’s coastal upbringing shaped her creative voice. Lidija shares the intriguing premise of her literary novel, inviting listeners to explore themes of longing, complicated relationships, and the nuanced lines between personal preference and craft in fiction. Plus, get a sneak peek into her innovative craft-focused book club that’s become a haven for nearly a hundred writers.

If you’re passionate about literary fiction, book coaching, and understanding a writer’s journey from courtroom to the written page, this episode is a must-listen.

Lidija Hilje is a Croatian writer and certified book coach. After earning a law degree, she spent a decade practicing in Croatian courts before transitioning to book coaching and writing in English as her second language. She lives in Zadar, Croatia, with her husband and two daughters. Slanting Towards the Sea is her first novel.

You can connect with her at https://lidijahilje.com or on Instagram @lidijahilje.

Support your local bookstore & this podcast by getting your copy of Slanting Towards the Sea  at Bookshop.org

Kristi Leonard is a modern Renaissance woman deeply rooted in the book world. When she's not immersed in crafting novels, she's orchestrating writing retreats through her business, Writers in the Wild, or lending her voice to non-fiction audiobooks. She leads the Women’s Fiction Writers Association as the president of the board, and interviews her writer pals as one of the hosts of the Author Express Podcast. She will start querying her first book in 2024.

Beyond the realm of words, Kristi embraces the Florida sunshine by hiking with her writer-hiker group and leisurely walks on the beach. She and her husband juggle a couple side businesses and take turns sharing the couch with their goofy Golden-doodle, Maddie. Kristi enjoys travel adventures with her twin sister and living vicariously through her grown children. You can learn more about her and connect at: https://linktr.ee/kristileonard.

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Author Express wherever you listen to podcasts and to follow us on Instagram @AuthorExpressPodcast

Learn more about our hosts, the guests we've had, and their books -

https://linktr.ee/AuthorExpressPodcast

Curious about what inspires a debut author? In this episode of Author Express, meet Cathelina Duvert, whose novel The Box recently received an honorable mention in the Black Writers Workspace competition. Cathelina opens up about growing up in Hollis, Queens during the golden era of hip hop, how her experiences as a 7th and 9th grade ELA teacher intersect with her writing life, and the deeply personal story behind her book. Teasers include why she started a creative writing club at her school, using art and photo manipulation in her novel’s cover, and how she tackles themes like depression and healing. Discover how mental health, mothers and daughters, and emotional transformation all connect in her storytelling. Plus, find out which best-selling book made Cathelina feel seen. Tune in for inspiration and a behind-the-scenes look at a passionate new voice in fiction.

Cathelina Duvert, an alumna of Hofstra University with a degree in Creative Writing and Literature, captivates readers with her raw, authentic voice. Her blog, Cathy’s Cross: A Depressive’s Positive Perspective, has earned a dedicated following for its heartfelt chronicles of her personal battles with depression. This deeply relatable blog is set to become a memoir/journal, slated for publication in July 2025.

You can find Cathelina on

Instagram: @cathelinaduvert

LinkedIn: Cathelina Duvert

Her Book: The Box

Author and musical composer Kathleen Basi is mother to three boys and one chromosomally-gifted daughter. Her debut novel, A SONG FOR THE ROAD, follows a musician on an unconventional road trip. Bestselling author Kerry Anne King writes, “In a novel filled with music, heartbreak, and surprising laughter, Basi takes us on a journey that encompasses both unimaginable loss and the powerful resilience of the human heart.”

Meaty, earnest, occasionally humorous, and ultimately uplifting, Kathleen’s fiction highlights the best within ourselves and each other. She writes monthly reflections on life, writing and beauty on her newsletter. Subscribe at https://kathleenbasi.substack.com/. 

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Author Express wherever you listen to podcasts and to follow us on Instagram @AuthorExpressPodcast

Learn more about our hosts, the guests we've had, and their books -

https://linktr.ee/AuthorExpressPodcast

Journey with us on this episode of Author Express as Kristi Leonard interviews Lindsay Marie Morris, an LA-based journalist-turned-novelist whose Sicilian roots and love of historical fiction have shaped her latest release, Beneath the Sicilian Stars. Discover how Lindsay weaves emotional depth, family secrets, and little-known history—like the World War II internment of Italian immigrants in California—into her gripping storytelling. From a childhood fascination with science to personal family traditions and secret-keeping, Lindsay reveals the inspiration behind her novels and how her journalism background informs her creative process.

If you’re a fan of contemporary historical fiction, Italian culture, or stories that balance sweeping drama with intimate moments, you won’t want to miss the unique insights and writing tips Lindsay shares in this heartfelt, engaging chat.

Lindsay Marie Morris is a Los Angeles-based novelist and journalist with a B.A. in Communications from Marquette University. A former Shape Magazine editor, she writes for publications like Forks Over Knives, focusing on travel, health, wellness, and plant-based living. Passionate about storytelling, she explores diverse topics through her work. In her free time, Lindsay enjoys camping, outdoor adventures, cooking, and baking.

Connect with Lindsay Marie:

Website- lindsaymariemorris.com

Instagram- @lindsaymariemorris

Support your local bookstore & this podcast by getting your copy of Beneath the Sicilian Stars  at Bookshop.org

Kristi Leonard is a modern Renaissance woman deeply rooted in the book world. When she's not immersed in crafting novels, she's orchestrating writing retreats through her business, Writers in the Wild, or lending her voice to non-fiction audiobooks. She leads the Women’s Fiction Writers Association as the president of the board, and interviews her writer pals as one of the hosts of the Author Express Podcast. She will start querying her first book in 2024.

Beyond the realm of words, Kristi embraces the Florida sunshine by hiking with her writer-hiker group and leisurely walks on the beach. She and her husband juggle a couple side businesses and take turns sharing the couch with their goofy Golden-doodle, Maddie. Kristi enjoys travel adventures with her twin sister and living vicariously through her grown children. You can learn more about her and connect at: https://linktr.ee/kristileonard.

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Author Express wherever you listen to podcasts and to follow us on Instagram @AuthorExpressPodcast

Learn more about our hosts, the guests we've had, and their books -

https://linktr.ee/AuthorExpressPodcast

Step into sunny Los Angeles with author Janie Emaus as she brings humor and heart to this episode of Author Express. Host Kathleen Basi chats with Janie about her unique upbringing, the quirky realities of LA living, and her experience caring for family while pursuing her passion for writing. Get a behind-the-scenes teaser of Janie's latest novel, "The Advice Columnist," where a fifty-something protagonist gets unexpected advice from her younger self through TikTok and texts.

Listeners interested in women’s fiction, strong female characters, or stories about marriage and personal growth will find hints at all of these themes—plus hilarious celebrity encounters and the honest struggles of juggling multiple creative genres. Whether you’re a bookworm, aspiring writer, or searching for uplifting stories and positive vibes, this engaging episode is sure to leave you smiling.

Janie Emaus is the author of the blended holiday picture books Latkes for Santa Claus—a finalist in the 2022 International Book Awards—and Easter Eggs & Matzo Balls. She has also penned the novels The Advice Columnist, The Time Traveling Matchmaker, and Mercury in Retro Love. A frequent contributor to AARP, Janie’s award-winning essays, stories, and articles have appeared in numerous magazines, anthologies, and websites.

In 2016, she received an honorary mention in the Erma Writing Competition, and in 2023, she earned second place in the National Society of Newspaper Columnists Contest in the lifestyle category.

Despite these accolades, Janie believes no award is more meaningful than the love of family.

Connect with her:

Website: www.janieemaus.com

Instagram: @janieemaus

Support your local bookstore & this podcast by getting your copy of Latkes for Santa Claus , Easter Eggs & Matzo Balls , and The Time Traveling Matchmaker   at Bookshop.org

Author and musical composer Kathleen Basi is mother to three boys and one chromosomally-gifted daughter. Her debut novel, A SONG FOR THE ROAD, follows a musician on an unconventional road trip. Bestselling author Kerry Anne King writes, “In a novel filled with music, heartbreak, and surprising laughter, Basi takes us on a journey that encompasses both unimaginable loss and the powerful resilience of the human heart.”

Meaty, earnest, occasionally humorous, and ultimately uplifting, Kathleen’s fiction highlights the best within ourselves and each other. She writes monthly reflections on life, writing and beauty on her newsletter. Subscribe at https://kathleenbasi.substack.com/. 

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Author Express wherever you listen to podcasts and to follow us on Instagram @AuthorExpressPodcast

Learn more about our hosts, the guests we've had, and their books -

https://linktr.ee/AuthorExpressPodcast