Sharing the Heart of the Matter

In this episode of Sharing the Heart of the Matter, hosts Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson talk with novelist Deborah Brasket about her new book, This Sea Within, a sweeping historical novel that blends political intrigue, love,coming-of-age, and spiritual longing. Deborah shares how her world travels, deep research, and personal reflections shaped a story rich with danger, beauty, and purpose.

Together, they explore the connection between the sensualand the spiritual, the power of story to illuminate history, and what it means to be called by something greater than yourself. If you love thoughtful conversations about books, creativity, courage, and the deeper currents that move our lives, this episode is for you.

Links for this episode:

When Things Go Missing, A Novel - Amazon,Bookshop, Barnes & Noble 

This Sea Within - Pre-order on Amazon 

Author Website and Blog

Substack Newsletter

Instagram

From the hosts:

Vicki’s new book - a ghost story, Slivers. Her book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue; Blog: https://victoriaponders.com/

Wynne's blog: Surprised by Joy and podcast: The Life of Try

Looking for a compelling author interview and a great newpsychological thriller to add to your reading list? In this episode of Sharing the Heart of the Matter, P. J. Gudka joins us to discuss her debut novel, Perfect, a psychological domestic thriller centered on family secrets, generationaltrauma, perfectionism, and moral complexity.

We talk about her transition from poetry to fiction, how she built layered and relatable characters, and why empathy matters so much in storytelling. P. J. also shares insights into the writing process, self-publishing, the power of the writing community, and what she’s working on next.

If you enjoy book podcasts, author interviews, psychological thrillers, and conversations about creativity, this episode isone you won’t want to miss.

Links for this episode:

Transcript: Episode 134: Perfect with P.J. Gudka transcript

Purchase "Perfect": Amazon.com: Perfect eBook : Gudka, P. J. : Kindle Store

Pooja's Blog: Lifesfinewhine - The Life & Ramblings Of A Zillennial

From the hosts:

Vicki’s new book - a ghost story, Slivers. Her book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue; Blog: https://victoriaponders.com/

Wynne's blog: Surprised by Joy and podcast: The Life of Try

In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon talk with Wayne Runde. Wayne is an author, physician and veteran US Navy Commander.

Wayne tells us about his book, Shadow of the Deceiver, the third installment in The Genesis Trust series. We hear about why he was called to start writing even with his busy schedule and a fascinating set of hobbies.

We ask about the intersection of science, morality and humanity that is a cornerstone for his writing and stories. Wayne tell us where he finds inspirations for characters from his professional life and his personal interactions within his church community.

This is a great episode with an author that has re-imagined a sci-fi classic through a meaningful lens. We know you’ll love it.

Links for this episode:

⁠Wayne Runde's⁠ website

Shadow of the Deceiver: The Genesis Trust, Book 3 on ⁠Amazon ⁠and ⁠Barnes & Noble⁠

From the hosts:

Vicki’s book about resilience and love: ⁠Surviving Sue⁠; Blog: ⁠https://victoriaponders.com/⁠

Wynne's blog: ⁠https://wynneleon.com ⁠

In this episode, hosts Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson engage with author Gloria Golec about her memoir, South Side Memories.

The conversation explores themes of family, immigrant experiences, and the power of storytelling. Gloria shares insights on how her Polish heritage and family dynamics shaped her identity and writing journey.

The discussion emphasizes the importance of preserving personal narratives, the emotional connections that come from sharing stories, and provides the inspiration for writing our own stories.

Takeaways

• The book is a reflection of the American dream and immigrant experiences.
• Storytelling helps maintain connections to roots and loved ones.
• Writing can be a therapeutic process for personal growth.
• Family dynamics, especially gender roles, play a significant role in shaping identity.
• Cherished memories can provide clarity and understanding of past relationships.
• Cultural heritage is often intertwined with food traditions and family gatherings.
• Teaching experiences can influence one's writing and storytelling approach.
• Writing a memoir can be an emotional journey that brings past relationships closer.
• Encouragement to start writing by focusing on one story at a time.
• Sharing stories can inspire others and create a sense of community.

Links for this episode:

⁠How To Share Snapshots of the American Dream transcript⁠

⁠Gloria Golec's profile on Eckhartz Press⁠

South Side Memories on ⁠Eckhartz Press⁠

From the hosts:

Vicki’s book about resilience and love: ⁠Surviving Sue⁠; Blog: ⁠https://victoriaponders.com/⁠

My book about my beloved father: ⁠Finding My Father’s Faith⁠

In this episode of 'How to Share', hosts Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson engage with author Marc Ross about his latest geopolitical thriller, 'Attacking the Dragon'. The conversation delves into the book's plot, which revolves around China's Belt and Road Initiative, and how Ross's background as a lawyer influenced his writing. They explore the complexities of Chinese politics, character development, and the nuances of storytelling, as well as Ross's personal journey from law to fiction writing.

Takeaways:

• Marc Ross's book 'Attacking the Dragon' explores China's geopolitical landscape.
• The Belt and Road Initiative is a significant yet under-discussed topic.
• Ross aims to portray China as a victim rather than an aggressor in his narrative.
• His legal background provides a unique perspective on the thriller genre.
• Character names in Chinese culture are complex but manageable for storytelling.
• Ross's writing journey reflects a long-held dream to become an author.
• He emphasizes the importance of creating unique protagonists in thrillers.
• The art of storytelling involves engaging readers through vivid descriptions.
• Ross enjoys the process of writing and values reader feedback. His experiences as a lawyer enrich his fictional narratives.

Links for this Episode:

Sharing the Heart of the Matter Home

A. Marc Ross's website: ⁠https://www.amarcross.com/index.html⁠

Attacking the Dragon on ⁠Barnes & Noble⁠ and ⁠Amazon⁠

From the hosts:

Vicki’s book about resilience and love: ⁠Surviving Sue⁠; Blog: ⁠https://victoriaponders.com/⁠

My book about my beloved father: ⁠Finding My Father’s Faith

In this episode of the podcast, Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson engage with novelist Doug E. Jones about Take Me Back to Chicago. Our conversation delves into the rich tapestry of 1974 Chicago, exploring the characters, music, and personal connections that shape the narrative.

Doug also shares insights into his transition from TV writing as a writer for the tv show Charmed (and more) to novel writing. We also talk about the thematic elements of his work, and the humor that permeates his storytelling. The episode highlights the importance of character dynamics and the personal experiences that inform Doug's writing, making it a delightful exploration of both the book and the author's journey.

Takeaways

• Doug E. Jones’s novel is set in 1974 Chicago, rich with cultural references.
• The protagonist, Rick, faces a significant debt left by his father.
• The book features strong female characters, including Rick’s daughter Elena.
• Doug’s writing process involves integrating real Chicago characters and events.
• The transition from TV writing to novel writing was liberating for Doug.
• Music plays a crucial role in setting the tone of the story.
• The character dynamics between Rick and his friend Javi add humor and depth.
• Historical context is woven into the narrative, enhancing the story’s richness.
• Doug’s personal experiences influence the characters and settings in his novels.
• The book is described as a ‘beach read’—entertaining and engaging.

Heads up! This is an episode that has already aired on the How to Share podcast so you may have already listened to it.

Links for this episode:

How to Share1970’s Chicago transcript

Take Me Back to Chicago by Doug E. Jones on Eckhartz Press

Q&A with Take Me Back to Chicago author Doug E. Jones

From the Hosts:

Vicki’s book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue; Blog: https://victoriaponders.com/

Wynne's book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith; Blog: https://wynneleon.com

Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson talk with author Ilsa Rey about her book, Wish I Was Here that will be released on December 23, 2025. The conversation delves into the thrilling narrative where Anna's best friend Isaac invents an invisibility pill and is kidnapped for it. In a desperate attempt to save him, Anna takes the pill herself, leading to a race against time to find him and secure the antidote before she remains invisible forever.

Ilsa tells us about her 10 year journey of writing the book as well as all the ways she used rejection and feedback to grow. We talk about writing in the zone as well as the research that goes into great books like Wish I Was Here.

Takeaways

Anna's best friend Isaac invents an invisibility pill.Isaac is kidnapped for his invention.

Anna takes the invisibility pill to save herself.

She has one week to find Isaac and the antidote.

Remaining invisible could lead to insanity and death.

Anna must follow clues left by Isaac.

The story explores themes of friendship and urgency.

The narrative is filled with adventure and suspense.

The invisibility pill serves as a catalyst for the plot.

The stakes are high as Anna races against time.

Links for this episode:

For show notes and more great inspiration, please see https://sharingtheheartofthematter.com

Video Trailer for "Wish I Was Here": https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Py-B0EbMMmEV3QBsxDHxVX4Pfr3d04wy/view?usp=sharing

Purchase Wish I Was Here on Black Rose Writing

Ilsa's blog: Writing and Martial Arts

From the Hosts:

Vicki’s book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue; Blog: https://victoriaponders.com/

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith; Blog: https://wynneleon.com/

In this episode, hosts Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson engage with licensed nutritionist Meg Bowman, discussing her book 'This Is Your Body on Trauma.' They explore the intricate relationship between nutrition, trauma, and emotional well-being, emphasizing the importance of safety as a nutrient and how the way we eat can impact our health.

The conversation delves into the significance of understanding our nervous system's state, the role of food in family dynamics, and practical strategies for creating a safe eating environment. Meg shares her insights on the FIGS protocol and the personal journey of writing her book, encouraging listeners to approach their relationship with food with kindness and curiosity.

Takeaways

• Safety is the most important nutrient for the nervous system.
• How you eat is as important as what you eat.
• Understanding your nervous system state can influence food choices.
• Food is often a reflection of deeper needs for safety and stability.
• Nutrition requires a personal and nuanced approach.
• Creating a safe eating environment can enhance well-being.
• The FIGS protocol helps assess individual nutritional needs.
• Storytelling and emotional state impact our relationship with food.
• Removing shame from food choices is crucial for healing.
• Self-care should focus on centering individual needs.

Links for this episode:

⁠How to Share home⁠

⁠This Is Your Body on Trauma — MegBowman⁠

⁠This Is Your Body on Trauma | Book byMeg Bowman | Official Publisher Page | Simon & Schuster⁠

From the Hosts:

Vicki’s book about resilience and love: ⁠Surviving Sue⁠; Blog: ⁠https://victoriaponders.com/⁠

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: ⁠Finding My Father’s Faith⁠; Blog: ⁠https://wynneleon.com/⁠

In this heartfelt episode, Lauren Scott talks with Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson about her journey of grief and healing after the loss of her beloved dog, Copper. Through poetry, she found a way to express her emotions and honor Copper's memory, culminating in her book 'King Copper.' The conversation explores the deep bond between pets and their owners, the process of creating a tribute, and the importance of allowing oneself to grieve. Lauren also discusses her future projects, including a children's book about camping experiences, highlighting the ongoing journey of love and remembrance. 

Takeaways 

• Lauren Scott wrote poetry to cope with the loss of her dog Copper. 
• The book 'King Copper' is a tribute to the joy and grief of pet ownership. 
• Writing poetry provided Lauren with a cathartic outlet for her emotions. 
• The process of creating the book helped Lauren feel connected to Copper. 
• Grief has no timeline, and it's okay to take time to heal. 
• The book includes joyful poems as well as those reflecting grief. 
• Lauren's experience resonates with many pet owners who face similar losses. 
• The importance of honoring the memory of beloved pets through storytelling. 
• Lauren's next project is a children's book about camping experiences. 
• The love for pets is unconditional and deeply impactful. 

Links for this Episode:

Sharing the Heart of the Matter Home

King Copper on Amazon

Lauren's blog: Baydreamer Writes

From the Hosts:

Vicki’s book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue; Blog: https://victoriaponders.com/

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith; Blog: https://wynneleon.com/

In this episode, Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson engage with author Michael Atman, who shares the journey of his book Cherry Whip, which has been republished 20 years after its initial release.

The conversation delves into themes of self-awareness, the significance of personal experiences, and the cultural insights gained from living in Japan. Michael discusses the importance of humor in storytelling and the lessons learned throughout his writing journey.

Takeaways

• Michael Atman's journey with Cherry Whip spans over two decades.
• Self-awareness is a recurring theme in all of Michael's works.
• The protagonist Hiroshi's struggles reflect the complexities of the human condition.
• Michael's experiences in Japan greatly influenced his writing.
• The humor in Cherry Whip serves to highlight serious themes.
• Writing can take time, and patience is essential for authors.
• Transformation is a key element in both literature and life.
• Cultural perspectives can enrich storytelling.
• Michael's writing process emphasizes the importance of self-knowledge.
• Future projects continue to explore themes of personal growth and identity.

Links for this episode:

Show notes on Sharing the Heart of the Matter website

Cherry Whip by Michael Antman |Goodreads

Cherry Whip: Twentieth AnniversaryEdition: Antman, Michael: 9781069096579: Amazon.com: Books

From the Hosts:

Vicki’s book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue; Blog: https://victoriaponders.com/

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith; Blog: https://wynneleon.com/