Story Impact Podcast - Compelling Author Interviews

Story Impact Podcast - Lovett and Schultz

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Welcome to the Story Impact Author Interview Podcast. In some corners of the world, storytelling isn't just an art—it’s an act of courage and a vital record of survival.

Today, host Lisa Towles welcomes bestselling crime novelist Sarah Lovett and global changemaker Ron Schultz. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on their new international thriller, Metal Viper, a story where a 12-year-old boy and a father's poetry become a state-level threat. We explore how fiction grounded in the harrowing reality of Myanmar can challenge authoritarian power and set forces in motion that no one can control.

Lovett and Schultz bring a combined lifetime of expertise in criminal justice and social innovation to this project. This conversation dives deep into the moral imperative of writers to stand up for the vulnerable and the "warrior goddess" energy required to navigate a landscape of vast beauty and alarming oppression.

In this episode, we explore:

  • Storytelling as Resistance: How a child’s quiet voice and a father’s poetry can ignite a chain of events that challenge authoritarian power and mobilize a movement.
  • The Inspiration Behind the Fiction: The real-world catalyst of a newspaper clipping about a "poet baker" and the influence of International Bridges to Justice.
  • The Fearless Investigator: Introducing Kae Zhang, a "warrior goddess" and hero of this new series, who navigates global crises with a moral imperative to lift others up.
  • The Mechanics of Collaboration: A look behind the curtain at how two distinct voices—one rooted in psychological crime and the other in social innovation—merged to create a seamless narrative.
  • Finding Your Author Voice: Ron and Sarah discuss the profound moment an author finds their authentic voice, moving past fear to let the heart lead the story.
  • The Responsibility of the Witness: Why taking a stand through fiction is essential in a geopolitical climate of increasing control and censorship.
  • Whether you are a thriller enthusiast or a storyteller looking to bridge the gap between fiction and social impact, this episode offers a masterclass in writing with purpose and heart.

    • Listen & Connect:

    • Buy Metal Viper by Sarah Lovett and Ron Schultz: Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and your local independent bookstore.
    • Learn more: com, sarahlovett.com, ronschultzauthor.com.
    • Watch the video podcast episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/zEsNlLtbhNY and subscribe to channel on YouTube to get notified of new episodes.

      • About Host Lisa Towles: 

      Hosted by Lisa Towles—award-winning crime novelist and Book Coach. This series highlights the visionaries who bring narratives to life, providing a platform for authors to connect their unique purpose directly with readers. Learn more about host Lisa Towles' 20-year journey at lisatowles.com.

      Resources for Authors:

      • Book Coaching: Move past the overwhelm of the digital world and launch your work with a strong, informed, and empowered presence. Access expert guidance to bridge the gaps in your process and connect with the readers who will become your biggest fans. Discover how to stand out at com.
      • Story Impact Magazine: A digital publication dedicated to the intersection of storytelling and professional strategy. Explore the latest issues at com/magazine.

        • Follow & Subscribe: Follow the show on Podbean, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and iHeartRadio.

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        Story Impact Podcast - Compelling Author InterviewsBy Lisa Towles