Toby Dorr, is a former prison librarian who made headlines in 2006 for assisting convicted murderer John Manard in a daring escape from the Lansing Correctional Facility in Kansas.

Toby, who faced legal consequences for her role in the escape, shares her side of the story, shedding light on the events that captivated the nation in her new memoir Living with Conviction.

Hear firsthand about the choices she made, the consequences she faced, and what life has been like since her involvement in this infamous prison break. 

Don't miss this in-depth conversation with a central figure in one of recent history's most talked-about prison escapes.

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The Storyteller Quest is  a weekly letter on writing,
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Kristen Van Nest, an author, actor, and comedian, joins us to recount the lessons learned while navigating this tumultuous yet exhilarating journey.

From the conservative confines of her upbringing to globetrotting adventures, Kristen's story is a testament to the fearless pursuit of personal and professional fulfillment, detailed humorously in her memoir Where to Nest.

In a world that often equates success with a linear career path, Kristen's narrative shatters the mold, proving that the road less traveled can make all the difference. She discusses the significance of family support and the courage needed to leap into the unknown. 

Balancing a successful copywriting business with her comedic and writing pursuits, Kristen embodies the poise and resilience of someone who truly understands the art of the hustle. 

Throughout our conversation, Kristen tackles the gritty realities of memoir writing, the intricacies of book marketing, and the hurdles of managing an Airbnb venture with unyielding humor and insight. 

Don't miss this fun, enlightening episode.

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The Storyteller Quest is  a weekly letter on writing,
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7-question worksheet that tells you which one is yours.

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When a patient's desire for distraction developed into a realm of magic, fantasy author Danielle Orsino, who was working as a nurse, discovered her true passion. 

Join us as Danielle recounts her extraordinary journey from nursing to becoming a novelist, revealing the unexpected turns life can take.  Her stories transcend tales of the mystical Fae and their cosmic conflicts and companionship.

Listen to this episode, which is brimmed with the magic of storytelling and the reality of making dreams come true.

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The Storyteller Quest is  a weekly letter on writing,
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In this episode, Becky Parker Geist, CEO of Pro Audio Voices, joins us to explore the booming audiobook industry. 

We cover the technological advancements that have made audiobooks more accessible, their significant impact on multitaskers like myself, and the journey from tape to digital.

We also discuss how platforms like Amplify Audio Books Create empower authors by offering a non-exclusive distribution model, challenging traditional retail monopolies and enhancing the author-listener connection.

We delve into the hurdles of audiobook production and marketing, highlighting Pro Audio Voices' scholarship program for authors facing financial challenges. 

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The Storyteller Quest is  a weekly letter on writing,
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In this episode, Shireen Sabanegh shares her journey from museum management in Jordan to creating children's stories in the UK. 

She reveals the intricate process of traditional publishing, from the excitement of having two manuscripts accepted to collaborating with publishers and illustrators. 

The discussion delves into  themes like representing disability in children's books through empowering narratives and the impact of storytelling on fostering inclusivity among young readers, particularly in Arabic children's literature. 

We explore Shireen's methods for teaching Arabic to children in the diaspora, blending classical and colloquial language

Shireen also talks about her latest projects aimed at promoting adaptability and female empowerment, enhancing learning experiences beyond the classroom. 

She offers advice to aspiring authors on the importance of embracing revisions and feedback to refine their stories for young audiences.

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The Storyteller Quest is  a weekly letter on writing,
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11 pages on what each publishing path really costs, plus a
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Dr. Heather Davis, an expert book coach and advocate for diversity in literature, joins me to unravel the journey of an idea as it transforms into a compelling narrative.

We discuss the nuances of authorship, from the birth of a concept to navigating the corridors of publishing, all while championing voices that reflect the true spectrum of humanity.

In an industry that's evolving with the times, Heather provides a backstage pass into the world of book coaching, distinguishing it from editing and illustrating its profound impact on the writing process. 

The conversation highlights how mentors like Heather work alongside authors to polish their craft, tackle challenges, and tailor their paths to publication—whether it's with heavyweight publishers or through the avenues of hybrid and self-publishing. 

For writers aiming to leave their mark on the world of books, this episode is a roadmap and a source of inspiration.

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The Storyteller Quest is  a weekly letter on writing,
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7-question worksheet that tells you which one is yours.

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 In this episode, we dive into the creative world of Eman Quotah, the Arab American author of the novel Bride of the Sea.

Drawing from the experience of a family friend's real-life ordeal and enriched by Eman's bicultural background, we uncover the depth of storytelling that defines her work.

We also shed light on the evolving presence and impact of Arab American writers in the modern art landscape, providing listeners with an intimate exploration of identity, heritage, and the rich emotional fabric that threads through these narratives.

Eman opens up about the intricacies of juggling a dual career as a writer and communications consultant. 

Quotah's insights and strategies for thriving in the freelance world offer invaluable lessons for anyone attempting to balance their creative pursuits with practical realities.

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The Storyteller Quest is  a weekly letter on writing,
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With  16 books to her name, author Mary Carol Moore shares her journey from a distinguished food journalist to a fiction writer whose upcoming novel,  Last Bets, covers the high-stakes backgammon boardgame in a sultry Caribbean setting. 

Throughout our conversation, Moore offers an insider's look at the intricacies of self-publishing and the marketing maze. As the publishing industry moves away from traditional agent partnerships, we explore the newfound autonomy authors have over their work alongside the hurdles they face in this dynamic landscape.

We also uncovered tips on assembling a dream team to refine and champion your book. From the secrets behind eye-catching cover art to mastering the craft of audiobook narration, this episode is packed with practical guidance for writers determined to make their mark.

For those passionate about writing and determined to find their way into readers' hearts through contemporary avenues, this episode offers both inspiration and insight.

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The Storyteller Quest is  a weekly letter on writing,
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In this episode, I chat with writer and scholar Ciahnan Darrell. We discuss the complexities of creating a feminine experience when you are a male author.

In his novel, a Lifetime of Men, Ciahnan draws from his own upbringing amidst powerful women , as he intertwines personal stories with societal struggles on feminism and reproductive rights, inviting us to reflect on the intricate dance between personal agency and cultural forces.

As our discussion unfolds, we navigate the contentious terrain of minority representation in literature, considering the "own voices" movement and the heated debates it inspires.

Ciahnan imparts wisdom on the trials and tribulations of the publishing industry, from the pursuit of an agent to the intricacies of marketing, with a nod to the realities facing independent authors.

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The Storyteller Quest is  a weekly letter on writing,
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Author Paul Trammell lives aboard his sailboat, and has found a profound sense of freedom and self-discovery.

When Paul is not steering his boat "Windflower" through tranquil waters or bracing against the unexpected, he's penning novels and self-publishing from his floating abode.

In this podcast, we talked about the world of self-publishing at sea, from leveraging friends' feedback to navigating the labyrinth of marketing and audiobook production.

We also discussed how digital platforms are reshaping the landscape for authors who dare to follow their dreams off the beaten path. 

Paul is also the host of the podcast Offshore Sailing and Cruising with Paul Trammell.

Paul's journey is a testament to the undying spirit of adventure and the relentless pursuit of creativity, wherever you may find yourself in the world—or on the water.

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The Storyteller Quest is  a weekly letter on writing,
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11 pages on what each publishing path really costs, plus a
7-question worksheet that tells you which one is yours.

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