Beyond the Pen

In the Beginning

In this podcast episode, Maccabee interviews Deborah Shouse, the author of "An Old Woman Walks into a Bar." They discuss the book's themes, including ageism, hero-worshipping, and the power of sharing stories. They also talk about the book's impact on readers, including one person who said that the character of Grace saved her life. The section highlights the importance of learning from and respecting our elders and the power of storytelling to connect people and inspire change. They also discuss the relationships between characters and the importance of caring for their parents as they age. Overall, the episode emphasizes the importance of community and the wisdom of elders.

Timestamps

The Power of Sharing Stories [00:09:33] - Deborah talks about sharing stories and how they can connect people and teach them about their similarities.

Debut Novel and Ghostwriting [00:03:50] - Deborah talks about her debut novel and her ghostwriting experience, including the process and the joy of learning about others.

Ageism and Hero Worshiping [00:01:35] - Maccabee and Deborah discuss the book's themes, including ageism and hero-worshipping, and how we must stop showing ageism towards our elders and learn from them.

Ageism in Grace's life [00:10:35] - Grace faced ageism multiple times, including being replaced as a teacher because of her age. The discussion also touches on how ageism is more prevalent in America than other countries.

Different cultures' treatment of the elderly [00:12:13] - The discussion briefly touches on how different cultures treat the elderly, including the shame associated with putting someone in a caring community in some cultures and the interest in older people shown by younger people in India.

Compassion for characters [00:18:44] - The discussion focuses on empathy for characters, even those with negative traits or secrets, and how storytelling can help readers understand where characters are coming from. The characters of Nora Faye and Sheila are compared in terms of their masks and pain.

Grace's compassion for Sheila [00:22:15] - Grace's initial feelings towards Sheila and how they develop over time.

Corey as a hero figure [00:25:18] - Corey's role as a hero figure in Sheila's life and how it affects her.

Corey's desire to care for his mother [00:31:22] - Corey's desire to care for his mother and the conflict between a parent's desire to enjoy life and an adult child's willingness to help.

Community Support [00:33:47] - The hosts discuss the importance of community support for elders, including the character of Grace and her relationships with others.

Character Traits [00:35:14] - The hosts discuss the character of Evelyn and her strong personality, as well as the importance of tolerance and independence as people age.

Writing Inspiration [00:38:22] - Deborah Shouse discusses her partner's support and the importance of having a writing critique group for inspiration and encouragement.

For More Information

Are you looking for more juicy tidbits and insider info on our show? Look no further than BeyondthePenPodcast.Com! And if you love what you hear, consider fueling our caffeine addiction by buying us a coffee with Buy Me a Coffee. And don't forget to let us know what you think by sharing it with others and leaving a review here.

In This Episode

"Get ready to laugh, cry, and tap dance your way through this unmissable episode of Beyond the Pen! Join Maccabee and Chelsea as they don their best jazz hands and welcome the incredible Edward Minski, a true master of surviving both cancer and musical theater. Prepare for a wild ride as they dive into Edward's hilarious and heartwarming book, 'Cancer, Musical Theater, and Other Chronic Illnesses.' 

Discover how Edward's unique blend of humor and darkness takes cancer by surprise, leaving it with a standing ovation and an encore. Through uproarious anecdotes and infectious laughter, Edward takes us on a journey of resilience, reminding us that sometimes the best way to face life's challenges is with a killer one-liner and a jazz square.

But that's not all! The trio also spills the beans on Edward's upcoming projects, revealing a secret podcast that will have you laughing until your sides ache and a TV adaptation of Edward's book that promises to bring his inspiring story to life like never before.

Just when you think the show couldn't get any crazier, the hosts drop a bombshell that has them questioning their choices. Will their unexpected twist leave the audience in stitches or raise a curtain of concern? Tune in to find out and join in the laughter, camaraderie, and above all, the triumph of the human spirit on this unforgettable episode of Beyond the Pen!"

Timestamps

Introduction [00:00:01] The host introduces the episode and the guests, Chelsea Rice and Edward Minsky, and talks about their book "Cancer, Musical Theater, and Other Chronic Illnesses."

Discussion of the book [00:01:25] The guests discuss the unique blend of humor and darkness in their book "Cancer, Musical Theater, and Other Chronic Illnesses."

Edward's past work [00:05:46] Edward talks about his past work, including a touring concert called "Baritone Does Broadway's Leading Ladies," where three bearded men sang and danced to Broadway's leading lady repertoire.

Surviving Cancer and New York [00:10:10] Speaker 3 talks about surviving cancer and living in New York for 18 years, despite the challenges he faced.

Removing facades during cancer treatment [00:11:06] The speakers discuss the facades that cancer patients put on during the treatment and the importance of letting go of the past to move forward.

Discovering cancer and misdiagnosis [00:18:20] Speaker 3 talks about discovering the lump on his chest, being misdiagnosed with cat scratch fever, and the doctor's incompetence.

Naming the Lump [00:20:33] The speakers discuss how they coped with the fear of cancer by naming the lump on Edward's chest after a character in "Little Shop of Horrors."

For More Information

Looking for more juicy tidbits and insider info on our show? Look no further than BeyondthePenPodcast.Com! And if you're loving what you hear, consider fueling our caffeine addiction by buying us a coffee, or two, with Buy Me a Coffee. And don't forget to let us know what you thought by sharing it with others and leaving a review here.

In This Episode:

Discover the fascinating world of science fiction and learn how authors can navigate the complex journey of publishing their books in bookstores. Join us as we delve into the critical factors contributing to book sales, emphasizing the importance of building strong relationships with authors. From understanding an author's dedicated writing process to overcoming editing challenges, we'll provide insights to inspire aspiring writers. Gain valuable tips on effectively approaching bookstores, thinking creatively, and avoiding common mistakes. Explore the captivating realm of science fiction at Space Cowboy Books, a remarkable bookstore in Joshua Tree, California, renowned for its wide selection of science fiction literature. With the support of enthusiastic host Jean-Paul Garnier, this bookstore promises an unforgettable experience. Uncover the diverse themes and gripping narratives shaping modern science fiction, and witness the power of collaboration between authors and publishers in promoting events and introducing new talent. Prepare to embark on an imaginative journey into the boundless possibilities of the sci-fi genre!

For More Information

Are you looking for more juicy tidbits and insider info on our show? Look no further than BeyondthePenPodcast.Com! And if you love what you hear, consider fueling our caffeine addiction by buying us a coffee, or two, with Buy Me a Coffee. And don't forget to let us know what you thothink sharing it with others and leaving a review here.

In This Episode

In the latest episode of this podcast, the hosts delve into an engaging exploration of the captivating realms of science fiction and fantasy. They delve into thought-provoking topics, such as the profound influence of technology on the publishing industry and the unfortunate closure of cherished small bookstores. The hosts enthusiastically introduce their upcoming guest, Jean-Paul Granier, a knowledgeable expert who will graciously share invaluable insights on how aspiring authors can successfully navigate the process of getting their books onto bookstore shelves. 

Throughout the episode, the conversation flows effortlessly, adorned with lighthearted banter, occasional whimsical detours, and witty jokes. The hosts warmly express their deep affection for the cozy charm of small bookstores, urging their eager listeners to lend their support to independent authors and local businesses. Emphasizing the significance of fostering a sense of community, the hosts underscore the importance of solidarity and mutual support within the industry.

Timestamps:

The Space Cowboy [00:00:00]: Introduction of upcoming guest Jean Paul Grier, owner of Space Cowboy Books in California, and discussion of tips for getting books into bookstores.

Technology and Bookstores [00:07:57]: Discussion of the impact of technology on the publishing industry, including the rise of audiobooks and ebooks, and the closure of small bookstores due to decreased physical book sales.

Creating a Full Experience [00:09:25]: The importance of creating a full experience for readers when visiting bookstores and conventions, including meeting authors and publishers, taking pictures, and having human interaction after a long period without it.

Small Bookstores [00:10:20]: Discussion on the charm and importance of small bookstores, compared to larger chains like Barnes and Noble.

Sci-Fi and Fantasy Genres [00:12:23]: Conversation on the popularity of fantasy versus sci-fi, and the potential decline of sci-fi due to its basis in potential reality.

Dungeons and Donuts [00:16:21]: Mention of a fantasy-themed donut shop called Dungeons and Donuts in Indianapolis, and the appeal of puns in business names.

Finding a Punny Place [00:19:21]: The hosts discuss their search for a unique and punny place to visit and share their experiences with previous attempts.

The Eighties [00:20:21]: The hosts reminisce about the fashion, culture, and trends of the 1980s, including the impact of the "Just Say No" campaign, hairstyles, and clothing.

Sci-Fi and Fantasy Trends [00:26:30]: The hosts discuss the current state of the sci-fi and fantasy genres, including the challenges of expanding on existing worlds and the potential for new ideas and universes in fantasy.

The Importance of Breaking Rules in Fantasy Writing [00:28:36]: Speaker 1 discusses the lack of rules in fantasy writing and the importance of breaking out of traditional fantasy novel conventions to create unique and imaginative worlds.

The Impact of Technology on the Publishing Industry [00:30:32]: Speaker 1 and Speaker 0 discuss the benefits and drawbacks of technology in the publishing industry, including the rise of self-publishing and the dominance of Amazon.

The Need for Support in the Bookstore Community [00:36:52]: The hosts discuss the decline of small bookstores and the importance of supporting local bookstores and authors, as well as the issues with Amazon's dominance in the industry.

The Importance of Supporting Small Bookstores [00:42:35]: The hosts discuss the impact of major companies merging and monopolizing the publishing industry, leaving small bookstores struggling to survive. They urge listeners to support local bookstores and authors.

The Value of Small Bookstores [00:45:14]: The hosts emphasize the value of small bookstores, which offer a unique and personalized experience for readers. They encourage listeners to visit small bookstores and discover new books.

In This Bonus Episode:

I sit down LIVE from VEECON with the Dog Whisperer and published author of Cesar's Way himself, César Millán. In this quick 5-minute interview, we talk about his journey into the publishing world, his principles of discipline and leadership, and his approach to overcoming writing obstacles. Caesar emphasizes the importance of self-knowledge, honesty, and loyalty in working with animals and in writing. He believes that being disciplined is not about being obsessed, but rather about being true to oneself. Caesar also shares that he doesn't have writing kryptonite and takes breaks when he needs to.

Timestamps:

Caesar's motivation for writing [00:00:29]: Caesar explains his motivation for writing his book and how he wants to make the world a better place.

Importance of self-knowledge, self-value, and self-love [00:01:56]: Caesar discusses how self-knowledge, self-value, and self-love are important in maintaining discipline and focus in writing.

Overcoming writing obstacles through honesty and self-reflection [00:04:11]: Caesar talks about how he overcomes writing obstacles through honesty and self-reflection, and how he talks to himself to get answers.

For More Information

Looking for more juicy tidbits and insider info on our show? Look no further than BeyondthePenPodcast.Com! And if you're loving what you hear, consider fueling our caffeine addiction by buying us a coffee, or two, with Buy Me a Coffee. And don't forget to let us know what you thought by sharing it with others and leaving a review here.

In This Episode

Join the hosts, Maccabee and Chelsea, as they delve into a lively conversation exploring the captivating world of the publishing industry. In this episode, they explore intriguing topics ranging from Chelsea's penchant for uncovering potentially incriminating information to her ambitious aspiration of becoming a diplomat, all while unraveling the enigma surrounding the advantages of writing in multiple genres.

The journey commences with a reflection on Chelsea's habit of delving into dubious details and the precautions she takes to navigate this curiosity. Then, moving forward, they venture into diplomacy, where Chelsea shares her desire to embrace this prestigious profession and the intriguing possibilities that diplomatic immunity presents.

As the hosts dive deeper, they transport listeners back to the fifth century BCE, where they explore the groundbreaking multi-genre book, "The Histories" by Herodotus. They also traverse the landscape of fantasy literature, discussing the first author who dared to break the barriers of genre conventions and the intriguing responses that followed.

Delving into crime fiction, the hosts explore the birth of cozy murder mysteries as a sub-genre and the renowned Agatha Christie's ability to infuse intrigue while omitting the darker elements typically associated with the genre.

The conversation takes an exciting turn toward successful multi-genre books, with notable works such as Cloud Atlas, The Hunger Games, and American Gods taking center stage. They also unveil the intriguing story behind J.K. Rowling's foray into crime fiction under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith, highlighting the ever-evolving nature of the publishing industry.

In an enchanting twist, the hosts delve into the blurred boundaries between multi-genre books and writing in multiple genres, unraveling the changes the publishing world has undergone to cater to an ever-growing readership.

The hosts then embark on a spirited discussion exploring the distinction between science fiction and fantasy, musing on the potential intersections and overlaps between the two. The debate turns unexpectedly when they ponder the classification of Willy Wonka's whimsical tale, questioning whether it falls under fantasy or science fiction and pondering the complex dynamics surrounding the Oompa Loompas.

Amidst the riveting discourse, the hosts share exciting merchandising ideas for the podcast and extend an enthusiastic call for engagement from their dedicated listeners. They also take the opportunity to express gratitude to their devoted audience, announcing the commencement of season three and inviting everyone to embark on yet another captivating chapter of Beyond the Pen.

Tune in to this thought-provoking episode as Chelsea reveals her aspirations, prompting lighthearted banter between the hosts, and together they explore the benefits of diplomatic immunity while playfully considering the possibility of putting it on a t-shirt.

Prepare to be entertained and enlightened as Beyond the Pen uncovers the multifaceted world of writing, genres, and the captivating realm of publishing, leaving no stone unturned and sparking the imagination of aspiring writers and ardent readers alike.

For More Information

Are you looking for more juicy tidbits and insider info on our show? Look no further than BeyondthePenPodcast.Com! And if you love what you hear, consider fueling our caffeine addiction by buying us a coffee, or two, with Buy Me a Coffee. And don't forget to let us know what you think by sharing it with others and leaving a review here.

In This Episode

Step into the captivating world of multi-genre writing in this enchanting episode of Beyond the Pen. Join hosts Maccabee and Chelsea as they embark on an exhilarating conversation with renowned author and coach, Amy Bernstein. Together, they unravel the mysteries and delights of writing across genres, delving into their own journeys and sharing intimate tales that will ignite your creative spirit.

Discover the intriguing advantages and unexpected pitfalls of exploring multiple genres, as Maccabee, Chelsea, and Amy delve into the thrilling tapestry of storytelling. Unveiling the importance of understanding audience expectations and genre conventions, they illuminate the path to crafting compelling narratives that resonate with readers far and wide.

Prepare to be enchanted as they unravel the intricate threads of cliches and tropes in writing, unraveling their influence on captivating stories and exploring how to break free from their grasp. In this episode, no stone is left unturned as they divulge invaluable insights into book marketing and promotion, guiding aspiring authors on the quest to reach their readers and build a devoted following.

But the journey doesn't end there. Join them as they navigate the labyrinthine challenges of staying motivated and creative while writing, drawing from their own experiences to offer practical advice and a much-needed dose of encouragement. Whether you're a seasoned writer seeking inspiration or a budding wordsmith eager to explore new horizons, this episode of Beyond the Pen is sure to ignite your imagination and empower you to transcend boundaries with your writing.

So, buckle up and prepare to embark on a captivating adventure through the realms of multi-genre writing. Tune in to Beyond the Pen with Maccabee and Chelsea, as they unravel the secrets of storytelling with the extraordinary Amy Bernstein. It's time to go beyond the ordinary and discover the limitless possibilities that await you on this extraordinary literary voyage.

For More Information

Looking for more juicy tidbits and insider info on our show? Look no further than BeyondthePenPodcast.Com! And if you're loving what you hear, consider fueling our caffeine addiction by buying us a coffee, or two, with Buy Me a Coffee. And don't forget to let us know what you thought by sharing it with others and leaving a review here.

In this Episode

In this podcast episode, the host interviews several authors about their upcoming books. The first guest, Annie Sullivan, discusses her book "A Touch of Gold," which explores the conflicts faced by the cursed daughter of King Midas. The conversation covers topics such as character relationships and the Island of the Lost Soul's atmosphere. The second guest, Charles Kelly, talks about his book "Crossroads," which follows an undercover federal agent in an outlaw motorcycle club. The conversation covers the inspiration behind the setting and the conflict between personal vendetta and duty. The third guest, Mark Lilley, discusses the differences between poetry and Prose and shares insights into their writing process. Finally, Robert Bowling discusses his upcoming book on the history of law enforcement, and Rex Dillinger talks about the importance of choosing love, respectively.

Notes:

• Annie Sullivan's background and travel experiences [00:00:34] - Annie Sullivan talks about her background and reveals that she has been to every continent, including Antarctica, and did a polar plunge there.
• Exploring the challenges of balancing personal growth and responsibilities in "A Touch of Gold" [00:01:08] - The host asks Annie Sullivan about the challenges of balancing personal growth and responsibilities in her book "A Touch of Gold" and the lessons readers can take away from the protagonist's journey.
• The atmosphere and landscape of the Island of the lost soul [00:04:10] - Annie Sullivan discusses how the Island of the lost soul contributes to the tension in the story and forces the protagonist to confront her deepest fears.
• Balancing Personal Growth and Responsibilities [00:08:20] - The host and guest discuss the challenges of balancing personal growth and responsibilities in the context of the book "A Touch of Gold."
• The Setting of Ruff River Falls [00:08:58] - The guest explains the inspiration behind the setting of Ruff River Falls, a fictional town in Kentucky.
• Will's Conflict of Interest [00:09:55] - The guest discusses how Will's history with an outlaw motorcycle club affects his actions and decisions throughout the book, creating a conflict of interest.
• Poetry and Prose [00:17:36] - The speakers discuss the differences between poetry and Prose, including the economy of writing, intensity, and the blurred line.
• Writing Kryptonite [00:21:21] - The host asks the guest, Mark, about his writing kryptonite, to which he responds that not reading enough is his biggest obstacle.
• Vigilantes in Indiana [00:22:53] - The guest, Robert Bowling, talks about his upcoming book on the history of vigilantism in Indiana, including examples such as the banking vigilantes during the time of Dillinger and modern-day digital vigilantes.
• Law Enforcement History [00:28:13] - Robert Bowling talks about his upcoming book on the history of law enforcement and its evolution.
• A Conscious Choice of Love [00:30:00] - Rex Dillinger discusses his book, "A Conscious Choice of Love," and shares a moment from the story that illustrates the characters' resilience and determination to choose love in the face of adversity.
• Importance of Love and Relationships [00:35:13] - Rex Dillinger talks about the importance of love and relationships in his book and life and how they bring satisfaction.

For More Information

Are you looking for more juicy tidbits and insider info on our show? Look no further than BeyondthePenPodcast.Com! And if you love what you hear, consider fueling our caffeine addiction by buying us a coffee, or two, with Buy Me a Coffee. And don't forget to let us know what you think by sharing it with others and leaving a review here.

In This Episode...

Join Beyond the Pen for their second episode in a three-part series, recorded live at HEPL Local Author's Book Fair 2023. Listen in as authors Ava Cuvay, Sutton Bishop, Anitha Sharma, Christopher Clouser, and M.B. Dabney share insights into their latest books, covering genres ranging from romance to sci-fi. Don't miss out on this exciting episode!

Keynotes

- Live recording of Beyond the Pen at HEPL Local Author's Book Fair 2023 

- Featuring five More talented authors discussing their latest books 

- Genres explored include romance, mystery, sci-fi, and fantasy 

For More Information

Looking for more juicy tidbits and insider info on our show? Look no further than BeyondthePenPodcast.Com! And if you're loving what you hear, consider fueling our caffeine addiction by buying us a coffee, or two, with Buy Me a Coffee. And don't forget to let us know what you thought by sharing it with others and leaving a review here.

In This First of Three Episodes:

We explore the themes of guilt, forgiveness, and redemption. Look no further than our latest episode, featuring interviews with several authors at the Hamilton East Public Library Local Author's Book Fair 2023. Join our host, Maccabee Griffin, as he delves into the world of literature and speaks with Mr. David Marsh about his book "The Confessions of Adam." This thought-provoking novel explores the story of Adam and Eve and the complex emotions of guilt, forgiveness, and redemption.

But that's not all! Maccabee also chats with Mr. DeShane Reed about his book "Lucky Are Those Born Black" and how a 50-year-old poem influenced a generation to see just how lucky they are to be born. And if you're a comics fan, you won't want to miss our interview with Mr. Jason Funk about his comic book "Merchant of Misfortune" and how this 16-year-old teenager doesn't allow the label of autism to discourage him from telling great stories.

We also have Rue Sparks on the show discussing her book "The Fables of Wren," which uniquely and creatively explores grief and her journey with losing the love of her life at such a young age. And last but not least, B.A. Williamson joins us to talk about the character development of Gwendolyn in "The Marvelous Adventures of Gwendolyn Gray" and her mental health's impact on the imaginative world around her.

So if you're looking for a podcast episode that covers a wide range of literary topics and features engaging interviews with talented authors, be sure to tune in to this three-part series of Beyond the Pen. And don't forget to share it with your friends and followers - you never know who might be looking for their next great read!

Timestamps:

Adam's Story and Themes [00:00:26]: The author discusses the themes of forgiveness and redemption in the novel "The Confessions of Adam" and how they relate to modern people.

Vivid Settings [00:02:31]: The author discusses the importance of setting in "The Confessions of Adam" and how it plays a crucial role in storytelling.

Writing Kryptonite [00:05:01]: The author discusses their writing Kryptonite and how being between projects is their greatest weakness.

The Lucky Are Those Born Black book [00:05:53]: The author of the book "Lucky Are Those Born Black?" is being interviewed about the 50-year-old poem that inspired an entire series of books while providing information on where to purchase the book.

The Merchant of Misfortune [00:12:16]: Jason Funk, the 16-year-old author and illustrator of "Merchant of Misfortune," is interviewed and discusses the inspiration for the characters and the story's message.

The Trickster Finch [00:16:09]: Rue Sparks talks about her book, The Fable of Wren, set in a small southern town, discusses the significance of the Trickster Finch in the story and how it relates to the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

Ren's Struggle with Grief [00:19:40]: Rue discusses Ren's struggle to accept the loss and move forward, along with the use of magical realism in the book.

Consistency as a Writing Kryptonite [00:21:14]: Rue discusses her struggle with consistency in writing due to health issues and disability.

Gwendolyn's Growth and Conflict [00:22:24]: B.A. Williamson of "The Marvelous Adventures of Gwendolyn Gray" discusses the character's growth and struggles with mental health and the conflict between order and imagination in the series.

For More Information

Looking for more juicy tidbits and insider info on our show? Look no further than BeyondthePenPodcast.Com! And if you love what you hear, consider fueling our caffeine addiction by buying us a coffee, or two, with Buy Me a Coffee. And don't forget to let us know what you think by sharing it with others and leaving a review here.