Five Compelling Questions with Shawn

In this engaging podcast episode, host Shawn Simmons interviews Kathleen Marple Kalb, an accomplished author and journalist. They discuss Kathleen's journey into writing cozy mysteries, particularly her series 'The Stuff of Mayhem.' Kathleen shares insights into her character development, the importance of diversity in her stories, and how her background in journalism influences her writing. The conversation also touches on the challenges of balancing a busy life with writing, as well as the literary influences that have shaped her career.

In this engaging conversation, Shawn Simmons interviews Diane Fanning, a bestselling author known for her true crime books. They discuss Diane's latest work on Lizzie Borden, exploring the complexities of her character and the societal pressures faced by women in the 1890s. The discussion delves into the nature of sociopathy, the choice between fiction and nonfiction in storytelling, and the impact of personal experiences on writing.

bIn this engaging conversation, Shawn Simmons interviews memoirist Jennifer Griffith, who shares her journey of writing about motherhood, generational trauma, and the complexities of personal identity. They discuss the impact of societal pressures on women's choices, the role of shame in silencing voices, and the importance of sharing stories to break cycles of trauma.

In this engaging conversation, Shawn Simmons interviews Kristen Arnett, a queer Floridian author known for her humorous and insightful writing. They discuss Arnett's upcoming novel about a lesbian birthday party clown, the art of clowning, the challenges of writing humor, and the development of her main character, Cherry. Arnett shares her journey to becoming a writer, her writing process, and the influences that shaped her work.

In this engaging podcast episode, Shawn Simmons interviews author Joe Golemo, who discusses his journey from a career in engineering to writing fiction, particularly murder mysteries. Joe shares insights into his latest book, 'Ruby Red Flaws,' and the creative process behind it. He reflects on character development, the challenges of writing, and the role of AI in enhancing the writing process. The conversation also touches on personal themes of adoption and family, making for a heartfelt and inspiring discussion.

In this engaging episode, Shawn Simmons welcomes back bestselling author Joe Souza to discuss his latest book, 'Cruel and Bitter Things.' The conversation delves into the writing process, character development, and the moral complexities of creating compelling antiheroes. Joe shares insights on the appeal of vigilante characters, the challenges of writing believable narratives in a technologically advanced world, and the importance of twists in storytelling.

In this engaging conversation, Erica Miner discusses her journey from a violinist at the Metropolitan Opera to an award-winning author. She shares insights into her latest book, 'Overture to Murder,' and the evolution of her main character, Julia. 

Shawn chats with Christopher Farnsworth about BURIED SECRETS, the 22nd book in Robert B. Parker's Jesse Stone series, journalism vs. novel writing, the enduring appeal of detective stories, the allure of vampires in literature, and valuable advice for aspiring writers.

Shawn chats with novelist Sean Tyler about his debut novel WHITE HELL, which explores the harrowing journey of the Donner Party through the lens of a love story, Sean's unique experiences as a writer, his influences, the challenges of the creative process, romance, historical fiction, Las Vegas, the end of days, turkey sandwiches, and the importance of remembering history in modern times.

Shawn chats with Charlotte Wood, the acclaimed Australian author, about the inspiration behind the latest novel, themes of goodness and forgiveness, how personal experiences shape writing, her journey through cancer and how it influenced her creative process, the importance of authenticity in storytelling, and the impact of literature and the joy of seeing her work adapted for the stage.