Y'all, we're sitting down with fantasy author Jared Woodcox to break down how Shadow Casters came to life. He reveals how a random moment playing with shadows turned into a whole universe where people can bring their shadow puppets to life. Author Jared shares everything from struggling with self-doubt and rewrites to building a magic system that's got readers hooked.

Season 5 kicks off with real talk about balancing a 9-to-5 with writing fantasies, why Jared keeps his favorite snacks close while writing late at night, and what's coming in Book 2 "Defense of Huo Kiana." Plus, get hyped for the plot twists he's dropping in future books.

If you're ready to dive into a world where warriors control shadows and friendships are tested, this episode's for you. Drop into this chat with a fantasy writer who's doing it his way.

About the Author: Jared Woodcox is a fantasy author who brought his lifelong dream to life through the Shadow Casters series. Drawing inspiration from beloved works like Avatar: The Last Airbender, Fullmetal Alchemist, and Harry Potter, he crafted a unique magical world where warriors can bring shadows to life.

While balancing a corporate career and family life, Woodcox pours his creativity into expanding the Shadow Casters universe, weaving together complex characters, intricate magic systems, and themes of friendship and self-discovery. His enthusiasm for the series shines through not just as its author, but as its biggest fan, eager for readers to join him on this journey through the land of Malgar.Previously recorded: Febuary 01, 2025

Listen in with me to Glorious Deliverance, a powerful message about rank, our oath to Christ, and how every moving part works together in faith. Elders obtained a good report through faith, reminding us that we are the evidence of things not seen. Previously recorded January 5th.

Join the Author Queen Lattifa Bryant as she sits down with Alan Freedman, exploring the story behind his empowering book "I'm Every Woman."

In this thought-provoking episode, Freedman shares his journey from evangelical church leader to advocate for change, discussing his personal transformation through what he calls a "divine heart transplant."

The conversation weaves through societal double standards, authenticity, and the power of understanding. Discover why Freedman chose to write a celebration of women globally and hear his unique perspective on creating positive change. Features Freedman's works: "I'm Every Woman," "My Weekly Walk," "The Walk," and his latest release "Till Death Do Us Part."

Author Bio

Lady Pluto of Safe Space Utopia joins us for a soul-deep conversation about spiritual gifts and church trauma. As a medium who grew up in church, she opens up about working in the astral realm while knowing what Leviticus says about consulting spirits. Meanwhile, I share my raw truth about believing my abortion sent both me and my baby straight to hell - and how that church teaching created years of deep trauma.

Through sharing her story of losing her son Adrian at 7, and my journey of pregnancy loss, we dive into how religious teachings can wound us. Lady Pluto speaks her truth as a death doula and healer, while breaking down how she embraces her gifts despite traditional opposition. This episode strips away pretense to explore what happens when church teachings meet lived experience.

This week we're sitting down with Cathey Law, author of Out from the Shadows: Invisible No More and licensed professional counselor. After decades in corporate America, Cathey made a bold switch to counseling at 46. We dive into honest conversations about faith, therapy, and how the shadows we live in – from self-doubt to impostor syndrome – can hold us back. Join us for real talk about mental health, workplace wellness, and what it actually takes to step into your purpose.

Cathey Law is a licensed professional counselor, author, and former HR/DEI executive. Find her on Instagram @counselorcathy or at kathywlaw.com.

From her award-winning Nutcracker retelling to her latest Hunt Security series featuring a mysterious woman on the run and her reluctant bodyguard, Jasmine dishes on how she juggles a full-time job with late-night writing sprints and characters who wake her up at 3AM demanding attention. Get the inside scoop on her Geek Girl Squad series that's breaking barriers with LGBTQ+ representation, trans characters, and the kind of ride-or-die friendships we all dream about.

No matter if you're a romance junkie or just love a good plot twist, this episode serves up real talk about writing whatever the hell you want and figuring out the marketing later. Plus, hear about her latest spicy release Hacker's Accomplice that's turning up the heat in the romantic suspense world.

In this episode of Stories That Heal, I sit down with Tayler Simon, a passionate writer, bookstore owner, and social worker.

Tayler shares her journey into writing and self-publishing, discussing the inspiration behind her powerful collections, Phases: Poems and Love and Other Forms of Heartbreak. We explore how her background in social work shapes her poetry and informs her mission with Liberation is Lit, an initiative that promotes social liberation through literature.

Tayler also reflects on the challenges of self-publishing, offers advice for aspiring authors, and shares memorable interactions with her community that highlight the healing power of storytelling. Join us as we delve into how Tayler balances her roles and uses platforms like Instagram and TikTok to connect with her audience and advocate for change.

On this episode of The Author Queen podcast, host Lattifa Bryant talks with author and confidence coach Markeyla Henton about imposter syndrome in writing and business.

Markeyla discusses her path from writing her first book to creating the S.N.A.P.P method, a system for pushing past self-doubt and achieving goals. They explore the ups and downs of self-publishing, building confidence as a writer, and the value of having a writing community of support.

Markeyla shares tips for facing fears, learning from setbacks, and moving forward with purpose. This conversation offers useful ideas for writers and entrepreneurs looking to boost their confidence and make progress on their projects.

Join Author Lattifa Bryant for a mind-renewing discussion with Cool Colas, the visionary author behind The Pro-Black Blerd book series. In this open and honest conversation, Cool Colas welcomes us into his journey as an author and his mission to challenge harmful anti-black stereotypes deeply entrenched in media.

In this episode, Cool Colas shares his experience writing and releasing a groundbreaking series that educates readers on identifying and critically examining anti-black tropes in entertainment.

He highlights the importance of supporting black authors and creators who are driving change by writing authentic stories and characters. Cool Colas also gives advice for aspiring black authors who want to succeed in publishing and media. Don't miss this episode—it shows how black storytellers are shaping a fairer future in media.

Join us for a fun and honest chat with Megs Thompson, the Book Doula and Word Twerker. Megs believes that everyone’s story has meaning and can connect us to others. She helps people see the value in their everyday lives and turn their experiences into stories that matter. Get inspired by Megs and learn why your story is worth sharing. All things fun, all things ghostwriters. Don't miss this lively episode with the one and only Megs Thompson.