The Molten Truth

Writing in the moment

Music as therapy: a personal journey

Revisiting childhood joy

In this inspiring conversation, singer-songwriter Kimberly Ward shares her unconventional journey into music—one that didn’t truly begin until age 31, despite decades of experience playing piano. Rooted in gospel, country, and family traditions, Kimberly reflects on the artists who shaped her sound, from John Michael Montgomery and Chris Tomlin to her lifelong admiration for Dolly Parton, whose resilience and family-focused values deeply resonated with her own upbringing.

Kimberly opens up about creative inspiration—how ideas often hit her in the car, at the ocean, or while traveling—and how songwriting became both passion and therapy. With 10 recorded songs and more than 35 written, including her single “Because I Did,” she discusses what it’s like to collaborate in the studio, balance motherhood with creativity, and follow inspiration instead of a rigid writing schedule.

For the first time publicly, Kimberly teases her nearly-complete memoir, a raw and honest collection of real stories spanning 20 years—chapters born from life challenges, personal growth, and the turning point that pushed her from frustration into empowerment. She shares how writing became a form of healing and transformation, leading her toward new goals: performing more, releasing new music, and launching her own podcast.

This episode is a testament to following passion at any age, creating from real life, and turning hardships into art.

Wayne Olivieri's musical journey from pews to punk

Wayne Olivieri shares his journey with rock legends

Early Days with Bon Jovi

In the season premiere of The Molten Truth: On Another Note, Zoey Michaels sits down with veteran musician Wayne Olivieri—whose career stretches back to the mid-70s—to explore the evolution of the music industry from the gritty golden age of CBGB to today’s streaming-dominated world. Wayne shares stories from his early punk rock days, reflecting on what made CBGB a creative breeding ground for fearless, original music.

He opens up about the realities modern musicians face, from the financial challenges of streaming platforms that pay fractions of a cent per play, to the necessity of juggling day jobs while still pursuing their art. Wayne also pulls back the curtain on the rise of tribute bands, why they currently out-earn original acts, and how live venues have shifted from dance floors to dinner service.

Drawing from his memoir The Undiscovered Showman, Wayne talks about his enduring friendship with John Bon Jovi, the hustle behind every breakthrough, and the emotional importance of creativity as a form of expression and survival. His message to aspiring artists is clear: relationships matter, resilience matters, and staying true to your craft matters most.

For more information visit wayneolivieri.com

Zoey Michaels is an author and the host of The Molten Truth. ZoeyMichaels.com

In this episode, host Zoey Michaels speaks with Anne Marie SanSevero, a resilient writer who shares her inspiring journey through personal challenges, including her battle with cancer. They discuss the importance of community support in the writing process, Anne Marie's upcoming works, and her daily writing practices. The conversation highlights the significance of storytelling, character development, and the impact of personal experiences on writing. Anne Marie emphasizes the need for writers to pursue their passions and the value of feedback from readers and peers.

To learn more about Annmarie SanSevero visit asansevero.com

Superstarswriting.com referenced to during the program as a training resource and support group for writers. Seminars held in Colorado Springs annually each February.

The Molten Truth is hosted by Zoey Michaels.

zoeymichaels.com

In this episode, Zoey Michaels interviews Jennifer Shaw, an author with over 35 years of writing experience. They discuss Jennifer's journey from writing as a hobby to self-publishing her books, the therapeutic nature of writing, and how her personal experiences, including her autism diagnosis, influence her storytelling. Jennifer shares insights on character development, the importance of marketing, and her upcoming dystopian novel. The conversation highlights the balance of light and dark in storytelling and the significance of community support for authors.

For news and updates about Jennifer's books, check out JMShawauthor.com