Episode: Gwen Tolios - Writing Underrepresented Stories

Host: Jr Sparrow

Guest: Gwen Tolios, Author from Chicago

Introduction:

Jr Sparrow introduces the guest, Gwen Tolios, an author from Chicago who writes character-driven stories that explore underrepresented identities and experiences.

They discuss the importance of representation in literature and the impact it can have on readers.

Segment 1: Journey to Becoming an Author

Gwen talks about her journey to becoming an author, starting in eighth or ninth grade.

Her parents encouraged her to read and write instead of watching TV, which helped her develop her passion for writing.

She shares her experience writing fan-fiction and how it helped her hone her skills as a writer.

Jr Sparrow and Gwen discuss the importance of starting small and building up writing skills.

Segment 2: Challenges Faced by Authors

Gwen talks about the challenges faced by authors, including criticism from writing groups and the struggle to get published.

She shares her personal experience with receiving rejections and the impact it had on her mental health.

Gwen also shares her big break, selling her audio rights to a story to another podcast.

Jr Sparrow and Gwen discuss the importance of having a support system and ways to maintain mental health while pursuing a passion.

Segment 3: Writing About Underrepresented Identities and Experiences

Gwen talks about the importance of writing about underrepresented identities and experiences and how it can help readers feel seen and heard.

She emphasizes that writing should be a passion and not just for monetary gain.

Gwen shares her experiences writing about what she knows from her personal life and how it has influenced her writing.

Jr Sparrow and Gwen discuss the responsibility that comes with writing about underrepresented communities and the importance of doing it respectfully.

Segment 4: Asexuality and Representation in Literature

Gwen shares her personal experiences of being an asexual author and how it influenced her work.

Jr Sparrow and Gwen delve into the spectrum of asexuality and the importance of emotional intimacy and friendships in addition to romantic relationships.

They discuss the representation of asexuality in literature and the impact it can have on asexual readers.

Conclusion:

Jr Sparrow thanks Gwen for sharing her insights and experiences.

Gwen gives shameless plugs for her social media handles and books.

Jr Sparrow encourages listeners to support underrepresented authors and their work.

[00:00:00] Interview with Asexual Author and Writing Journey

[00:03:22] Challenges in Writing Groups

[00:06:38] Overcoming obstacles to achieve writing success

[00:09:53] Discovering personal struggles to write about

[00:13:23] Overcoming Writer's Block and Self-Maintenance

[00:16:40] TV Shows as a Coping Mechanism

[00:19:46] Discussion of Guest's Books: "Demos of the Deep" and "Today, Tomorrow Always

[00:23:18] Planet Event, Spider Suit, and Asexuality

[00:26:33] Understanding Asexuality and Aromanticism

[00:29:54] Asexuality in Literature & Representation

[00:33:43] Challenges of Parental Dementia and Gender-Based Harassment

[00:37:24] Sacrifices Made for Success

[00:41:09] Astronomy, COVID, and Personal Reflections

[00:44:49] Celebrating Podcast Community and Promotion

[00:48:17] Billboards and Promotions Strategy