In the first of two episodes with bestselling author Christopher Paolini, Brandon Mull and Jason Conforto talk about the origins of Eragon, how Christopher got started as a writer, and the process of building an epic fantasy series. They also dive into outlining, preparation, and the different ways authors organize massive stories before they ever reach the page. It’s a fun and insightful conversation about storytelling, creativity, and the journey to becoming an author.

In the third and final episode of this series with Kaela Rivera, Jason Conforto, Chad Morris, and Shelly Brown talk about writing horror for middle grade readers. Kaela and Shelly both have novels in the genre, and they discuss how to balance scares with heart, tension with age-appropriate storytelling, and what makes spooky stories resonate with younger audiences. It’s a fun and insightful conversation about crafting chills for young readers.

In this episode, Brandon Mull and Jason Conforto sit down with independent author Aaron N. Hall to talk about the world of self-publishing. They discuss the freedom and challenges of going independent, building an audience without a traditional publisher, and what it takes to succeed as an indie author. It’s an insightful conversation for anyone considering forging their own path in publishing.

In this episode, Jason Conforto, Chad Morris, and Shelly Brown continue their conversation with Kaela Rivera, exploring how her Mexican heritage shapes her storytelling. Kaela shares how culture, family history, and personal experience influence her characters and themes. It’s a meaningful discussion about identity, authenticity, and writing from the heart.

In this listener-requested episode, Brandon Mull, Jason Conforto, Chad Morris, and Shelly Brown talk about learning disabilities, with a special focus on Jason’s personal journey with dyslexia and synesthesia. Together, they discuss the challenges, misconceptions, and unexpected strengths that can come with thinking differently. It’s an honest and encouraging conversation about creativity, resilience, and embracing the way your mind works.

In the first of three episodes with author Kaela Rivera, Jason Conforto, Chad Morris, and Shelly Brown talk with Kaela about her writing journey and her initial resistance to revisions. Together, they explore learning to embrace feedback, the growth that comes through rewriting, and how revisions ultimately make a story stronger. It’s an honest and encouraging conversation about becoming a better writer.

In this episode, Brandon Mull and Jason Conforto are joined by Chad Morris and Shelly Brown to talk about some exciting changes to Mulling it Over. While Brandon will continue his monthly episodes, Jason, Chad, and Shelly will also begin hosting additional interviews to bring even more content to the show. Most of the conversation focuses on how writers keep readers interested and engaged from beginning to end.

In the final episode of their three-part series with bestselling author Jennifer A. Nielsen, Brandon Mull and Jason Conforto talk about the editing process—what it looks like, how to survive it, and how it strengthens a story. Jennifer also shares valuable advice for aspiring writers, from handling rejection to finding your voice. It’s an honest and encouraging conversation full of wisdom for writers at any stage.

In this second episode with bestselling author Jennifer A. Nielsen, Brandon Mull and Jason Conforto explore the art of building tension in a story—without relying solely on violence or high-stakes action. Jennifer shares how she keeps readers on the edge of their seats using tools like pacing, emotional stakes, character dynamics, and surprising plot turns. It’s a masterclass in storytelling from one of the genre’s best.

In the first of three episodes with bestselling author Jennifer A. Nielsen (The False Prince, Resistance), Brandon Mull and Jason Conforto talk with Jennifer about how she got started in writing, how she blends research with imagination in both fantasy and historical fiction, and her experiences connecting with young readers. It’s an inspiring look at the heart and craft behind her stories