The Thriller Zone

On today's 170th episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple and Nick Petrie discuss various topics related to Nick's book 'The Price You Pay'.

They talk about personal updates, then delve into the opening scene of the book and the significance of the epigraph. They also explore the characters of Lewis and June Cassidy and the inspiration behind Peter Ash and the theme of PTSD.

The conversation touches on writing style, emotional depth, and the possibility of writing romance. They conclude with a discussion on writing standalone novels, touch on unhealthy eating habits, the importance of reading, analyzing book structure, and of course, the classic closing question: Best Writing Advice.

To learn more visit: NickPetrie.com
Follow us at TheThrillerZone.com, YouTube.com/thethrillerzone, and listen wherever you enjoy your podcasts!

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates
03:05 Praise for Nick Petrie's Book 'The Price You Pay'
04:08 Conversation about the Opening Scene of the Book
08:45 Discussion on Video Production and Microphones
10:47 Conversation about the Epigraph of the Book
12:28 Exploration of the Characters Lewis and June Cassidy
15:35 Inspiration for Peter Ash and the Theme of PTSD
19:08 Discussion on the Writing Style and Emotional Depth
22:53 Introduction to the Character of Louis
25:15 Introduction to the Character of June Cassidy
29:00 Exploration of the Possibility of Writing Romance
32:35 Discussion on Influences and Writing Style
35:07 Conversation about Writing Standalone Novels
38:15 Discussion on the New Standalone Novel
39:03 Unhealthy Eating Habits
40:09 Importance of Reading
41:00 Analyzing Book Structure
42:27 Writing Advice

The Thriller Zone promises to wrap 2024 in a BIG way...Stay Tuned! Questions? Just write us at "[email protected]"

Mentioned in this episode:

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

On today's 169th episode of The Thriller Zone, I'm happy to introduce you to New York Times Bestselling author Gregg Hurwitz.

If you're an Orphan X fan, you're going to join our deep dive in that series. Gregg shares insights into crafting a successful series and the journey of writing a long-running character. The conversation also delves into the role of artificial intelligence in the creative arena and the importance of community in storytelling.

Hurwitz highlights the differences between novel and screenplay writing and provides an elevator pitch for his latest book, 'Lone Wolf.'

Our conversation concludes with a discussion on the writing fire within and the importance of curiosity in driving Gregg's work, plus his insights and writing advice. I enjoy how Gregg emphasizes the power of curiosity and fascination in exploring the world and finding inspiration, plus how he encourages aspiring writers to prioritize their writing time and be dedicated to the craft.

To learn more about Gregg and his prolific work, visit: GreggHurwitz.net.

As always follow us at TheThrillerZone.com, YouTube.com/thethrillerzone and on all social media channels @thethrillerzone, as well as listen to us on ApplePodcasts, Spotify, or pretty much anyplace you get your podcast.

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Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Setting
03:01 Crafting a Successful Series
09:12 The Journey of Series Writing
11:30 Writing as Self-Therapy
12:20 The Role of Artificial Intelligence
19:17 The Importance of Community
22:07 The Difference Between Novel and Screenplay Writing
30:06 Elevator Pitch for 'Lone Wolf'
34:56 The Fire Within: Curiosity and Honoring It
38:09 The Power of Curiosity and Fascination
39:07 Writing Advice: Ass in Chair Time
40:10 The Importance of Personalized Correspondence

The Thriller Zone promises to wrap 2024 in a BIG way...Stay Tuned! Questions? Just write us at "[email protected]"

Mentioned in this episode:

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

On today’s 168th episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple interviews James Grady, a renowned crime writer, and author of the classic spy thriller, Six Days of the Condor.

James discusses his writing journey and the inspiration behind his latest book, The Smoke in Our Eyes, a book that’s available now. He also shares insights into the transition from writing novels to screenwriting, plus the invaluable lessons he learned from working with one of Hollywood’s most prolific television writers, Stephen J. Cannell. 

Temple and Grady reflect on the power of storytelling and the techniques that make a story thrilling. James emphasizes the importance of capturing moments of inspiration and continually learning as a writer.

They wrap up by discussing Grady's career and accolades, his contributions to charitable anthologies, his writing advice, the distraction of social media, and how to find him online.

Want to learn more about James? Visit: Facebook.com/jamesgrady7

And as always, FOLLOW, WATCH, LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE to: X & Instagram @thethrillerzone, Watch on YouTube.com/thethrillerzone, LISTEN on ALL Podcast Channels, and subscribe to our newsletter at TheThrillerZone.com

Takeaways

• Luck and timing play a significant role in a writer's success, but perseverance and continuous learning are equally important.
• The power of words and storytelling can transport readers and create memorable experiences.
• Inspiration can come from unexpected sources, such as a tragic incident or a powerful message painted on a house.
• Learning from experienced writers and studying different techniques can enhance one's own writing skills.
• The thriller genre is timeless and continues to captivate readers with its elements of suspense, justice, and law. James Grady has been named one of the 50 crime writers to read before you die.
• Grady is proud of his contributions to charitable anthologies that benefit various causes.
• His best writing advice is to work every day and be true to your craft.
• Grady believes that spending too much time on social media can be a distraction for authors.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

04:31 From Six Days to Three

08:05 The Power of Words and Storytelling

11:30 The Inciting Incident for 'The Smoke in Our Eyes'

19:15 Writing Style and Techniques

27:16 Learning Screenwriting from Stephen J. Cannell

32:27 Impressions of Today's Content and Techniques

46:44 Accolades and Career

49:28 Giving Back

50:55 Writing Advice

52:18 The Distraction of Social Media

53:35 Finding James Grady

54:48 Closing Remarks

The Thriller Zone promises to wrap 2024 in a BIG way...Stay Tuned! Questions? Just write us at "[email protected]"

Mentioned in this episode:

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

In this 167th episode of The Thriller Zone, host Dave Temple interviews John Lindstrom, a movie & television star turned debut author.

Lindstrom discusses his journey from acting to writing, including his experience writing screenplays and the lessons he learned about storytelling. He also shares the challenges he faced in writing his first book and the importance of authenticity in storytelling.

As we get going, Lindstrom reflects on his career in soap operas and the attrition rate in Hollywood, and discusses his wife's involvement in theater and the impact and evolution of indie films.

The conversation concludes with a discussion on the dark side of Hollywood and the cautionary tale in Lindstrom's book, 'Hollywood Hustle,' a book that reflects, in part, some of his experiences in the entertainment industry. In this engaging conversation, Jon shares his passion for supporting orphanages and helping foster kids tell their stories through film.

Dave and Jon also discuss the contrasting characters in his book and the dark side of Hollywood. Perhaps most of the fun involves an "acting  conversation" which has the two personalities reading from the book, playing two characters. And sure, there are potential film adaptations and casting choices, but that remains to be seen.

As we close, Lindstrom shares his writing process and the therapeutic nature of writing, and as always, Dave concludes the show with much-loved "Rapid-Fire Questions." It's fun for everyone.

To learn more about Jon visit: JonLindstrom.com, and as always, connect with TheThrillerZone.com & watch our podcast at YouTube.com/thethrillerzone.

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Takeaways

Writing screenplays can teach valuable lessons about storytelling, structure, and character development.

• Authenticity is crucial in writing, and it is important to draw from personal experiences and knowledge.
• The attrition rate in Hollywood is high, and maintaining a successful career requires perseverance and gratitude.
• Indie filmmaking remains a challenging endeavor, despite advancements in technology and accessibility.
• 'Hollywood Hustle' explores the dark side of Hollywood and serves as a cautionary tale about the pursuit of fame and success.

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Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Background

03:00 - Writing Screenplays and Learning Storytelling

06:19 - Attending Book Conferences and Working with an Editor

08:44 - Writing What You Know and the Importance of Authenticity

11:36 - The Challenges of Writing a Book

13:28 - The Importance of Research and Authenticity in Writing

15:16 - The Challenges and Benefits of Writing What You Know

17:45 - The High Lonesome Band and the Music Industry

19:40 - The Beginnings of John's Acting Career in Soap Operas

24:37 - The Difference Between Soap Operas and Episodic Shows

26:34 - The Attrition Rate in Hollywood and John's Career

28:00 - John's Wife, Katie McClain, and Her Involvement in Theater

30:01 - The Impact and Evolution of Indie Films

34:01 - Stylistic Influences from Books and Films

42:23 - Product Placement and Movie References in 'Hollywood Hustle'

45:16 - The Dark Side of Hollywood and the Cautionary Tale in the Book

49:33 - Investing in Orphanages

50:30 - Kids in the Spotlight

50:58 - Contrasting Characters

51:28 - Dark Side of Hollywood

52:16 - If This Scene Could Talk

52:46 - Chapter 31: Hollywood Hustle

53:43 - Phone Call with the Kidnappers

56:10 - Potential Film Adaptation

57:08 - Casting the Characters

58:36 - Tough Casting Choices

59:35 - Recommendation: Your Honor

01:00:03 - Writing as Therapy

01:03:54 - Enjoyment of the Book

01:04:52 - Rapid Fire Questions

01:08:15 - Top of TBR Stack

01:09:10 - Dream Dinner Guests

01:20:48 - Writing Advice: Trust Your Desire

01:25:14 - Memorizing Lines

01:27:34 - Realistic Acting

The Thriller Zone promises to wrap 2024 in a BIG way...Stay Tuned! Questions? Just write us at "[email protected]"

Mentioned in this episode:

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

On today's 166th episode of The Thriller Zone, as we launch February here in Season SIX, we're thrilled to welcome New York Times Bestselling Author Terry Hayes, the author of the epic novel I AM PILGRIM.

In this conversation, host David Temple interviews Terry Hayes about his book 'The Year of the Locust' as well as many of his upcoming projects. The conversation begins with a warm welcome and introduction, then dives into a discussion about Terry's new book, as David expresses his admiration for it.

Terry continues by sharing insights into the writing process and the inspiration behind the book, while also touching upon Terry's excitement and nervousness about the anticipation of the new book from his fans.

David and Terry concludes this engaging conversation with a question about Terry's personal preferences in writing, as well as signing off with David's signature "Best Writing Advice" for aspiring actors.

All in, it's a wonderful discussion with a true legend in Hollywood. As Terry says, when asked about the lack of a website and any social media presence, he says, "The best way to learn more about me...is to buy my books; that's where my true heart lies."

Buy The Year Of The Locust wherever you buy your books.

To learn more, to follow along, and to subscribe to, visit: TheThrillerZone.com and YouTube.com/@thethrillerzone/videos. You can also FOLLOW us on X & Instagram @thethrillerzone

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:17 Discussion about the Book
02:31 Upcoming Projects
03:52 Personal Preferences in Writing

The Thriller Zone promises to wrap 2024 in a BIG way...Stay Tuned! Questions? Just write us at "[email protected]"

Mentioned in this episode:

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

On today’s episode 165th episode of The Thriller Zone I’m happy to introduce you to a long-time fan and friend of our show, Mr. Terrence McCauley. He kicks off SEASON SIX with a discussion about his latest thriller CHICAGO 63, a fictional account of a plot to assassinate President Kennedy.

As a bit of history, Terrence is an award-winning novelist, a member of various writer associations, and on today's show discusses his writing career plus shares his journey of writing in multiple genres, including thrillers, crime fiction, and Westerns.

Other topics Terrence and I cover include: the importance of decorum and class in society, we discuss the cover design of 'Chicago 63' and the artist behind it, plus Terrence offers advice for aspiring writers, and near the end, introduces us to Silverback Publishing, a company focused on publishing novellas.

As you’ll see, Terrence is an engaging guest, a prolific writer in not one, but three genres, he’s also a podcast host, and just an all-around nice guy. Let’s get to the launch of Season Six, and my friend Terrence McCauley right here on The Thriller Zone.

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To learn more visit: TerrenceMcCauley.com and as always, stop by our website TheThrillerZone.com and be sure to SUBSCRIBE to our video channel Youtube.com/@thethrillerzone/videos
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Chapters
0:00 Introduction and Early Conversations
3:21 Writing in Multiple Genres
6:55 Favorite Genre: 1930s
9:28 Terrence's Novella 'Chicago 63'
18:31 Importance of Decorum and Class
25:17 Advice for Writers
27:42 Benefits of Writer Associations
29:45 Silverback Publishing
36:32 The Power of Novellas
39:44 Lessons Learned as a Full-Time Author
40:47 Trust the Process and Trust Your Instincts
41:42 Leaving the Big City for a New Life
42:47 Transitioning to Life in Dutchess County
43:25 The Cover Design of 'Chicago 63'
44:19 Closing Remarks 

The Thriller Zone promises to wrap 2024 in a BIG way...Stay Tuned! Questions? Just write us at "[email protected]"

Mentioned in this episode:

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

Yes, although this is THE BRAND NEW SEASON SIX, kicking off 2024, we are offering this BOUCHERCON REPLAY which was recorded at The Bouchercon Convention in San Diego last summer.

Some are legends, while others are legends in the making. Either way, six of the authors in the Atria Mystery Bus/Simon & Schuster family, have come together for brief conversations, face-to-face, with me to talk about their latest works at the Bouchercon 23 event in San Diego, California.

Please welcome my guests: @JackCarrUSA - @ChrisHauty - @isberryauthor - @ArmandoCorrea - @heykatyhays & @CEMcKenzie1, along with Special Thanks to David Brown @AtriaMysteryBus (all X/Twitter handles).

Their books are stunning. Their talents, equally so. And their futures are set to shoot across the sky, bright at the noonday sun.

Kick back, grab a beverage, and enjoy THIS REPLAY of BOUCHERCON 23 from last Summer, as you enjoy some conversation about books, thrillers and more, on an episode that will entertain, educate, and hopefully inspire you to write your best work.

To learn more, visit our website at: TheThrillerZone.com, follow us at YouTube.com/thethrillerzone, and if you'd like to reach out, we're at thethrillerzone at gmail.

Cheers, David Temple, host of The Thriller Zone.

The Thriller Zone promises to wrap 2024 in a BIG way...Stay Tuned! Questions? Just write us at "[email protected]"

Mentioned in this episode:

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

In this 163rd and FINAL episode of 2023's podcast The Thriller Zone, David & Tammy Temple discuss their top 10 books, films, and TV shows of the year. The dynamic duo begin by introducing the show by setting the holiday mood.

Next, they dive into their top 10 lists, starting with their favorite Television Shows and favorite Feature Films. Tammy also brings up favorite documentaries of the year.

And finally, and the "real reason" for the show, Dave & Tammy share their Top 10 Favorite Books of the year, as well as some of their favorite authors. Along the way, they recommend books by Don Winslow, Todd Goldberg, Chris Hauty, Tess Gerritsen, TJ Newman, William Landay, Robert Dugoni, Lee Goldberg, Lou Berney, and debut authors Jack Stewart, Bruce Borges, and T.R. Hendrix, as well as authors with whom they've become close friends, including Chris Hauty and Steve Stratton, to name a few.

They also mention upcoming books they're excited to read, then the conversation concludes with reflections on their respective gratitude for things they have in their lives, and the show wraps by Dave & Tammy sharing their well wishes for the New Year.

To learn more and to follow The Thriller Zone, be sure to visit: TheThrillerZone.com, Subscribe to YouTube.com/thethrillerzone, Follow #TheTZ on X/Twitter, Instagram & Facebook @thethrillerzone 

Y'all have a great rest of the holidays, please celebrate the New Year in (safe) style, and we'll see you for SEASON SEVEN of The Thriller Zone with More Interviews, More High-profile Authors, More Debut Authors, More Podcast Features, More Giveaways, and MORE Face-to-face Interviews with All The Best Thriller Writers In The World.

Cheers!

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Setting
01:16 Top 10 Books, Films, and TV Shows
05:19 Television Shows
13:49 Films
25:02 Documentaries
51:27 Books
55:04 Introduction and Book Recommendations
59:13 Praise for TJ Newman and William Landay
01:00:08 Discussion of Robert Dugoni and Lee Goldberg
01:01:30 Lou Berney's Novels
01:04:17 Don Winslow's Trilogy
01:06:14 Todd Goldberg's "Gangsters Don't Die"
01:07:10 Chris Hauty's "Devil You Know"
01:09:01 Tess Gerritsen's "The Spy Coast"
01:09:30 Debut Authors: Jack Stewart, Bruce Borges, and T.R. Hendrix
01:12:30 Most Original Book: "Murder and Hacksford" by Rick Blywise
01:17:35 Upcoming Books to Read
01:20:52 Gratitude and Reflection on the Year
01:28:46 Closing Remarks and New Year Wishes

The Thriller Zone promises to wrap 2024 in a BIG way...Stay Tuned! Questions? Just write us at "[email protected]"

Mentioned in this episode:

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

The Thriller Zone Podcast Episode Synopsis

On this exciting episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple welcomes author Todd Goldberg to discuss his latest novel, "Gangsters Don't Die." David introduces Todd as one of the funniest, most engaging, and educated authors to ever grace the podcast. They dive into a variety of topics, including Todd's prolific writing career, his fascination with gangsters, and the inspiration behind his characters.

Todd shares that his interest in organized crime stems from growing up in Palm Springs, a city with a history of mob activity. He talks about the influence of his family's storytelling tradition and the cultural appreciation for reading and writing. Todd also reveals that he has received emails from people who have just gotten out of prison, expressing their appreciation for his book.

The conversation takes an interesting turn as Todd discusses the moral ambiguity of his characters and the appeal of gangster stories. He believes that Americans are fascinated by organized crime because it represents the idea of getting away with breaking the rules. Todd also emphasizes the importance of character development and creating complex, multi-dimensional protagonists.

David praises Todd's latest book, "Gangsters Don't Die," and highlights the gripping prologue and the morally conflicted protagonist, Sal Cupertine. He expresses his admiration for Todd's ability to make readers both despise and love the main character simultaneously.

The discussion then shifts to Todd's career as a professor and his role in directing the low-residency MFA program at UC Riverside. Todd shares his philosophy of teaching and his goal of positioning his students for success in the writing business. He emphasizes the importance of treating writing as commerce and not settling for struggling as an artist.

David and Todd briefly touch on Todd's previous podcast, Literary Disco, which was highly regarded in the literary world. They mention that the podcast is currently on hiatus but may return in the future.

The episode concludes with David asking Todd for his best piece of writing advice. Todd shares a valuable lesson he learned from author Donald Westlake: a story is over when the reader could write the next page. He explains that this advice has shaped his approach to writing and has led him to constantly surprise readers and avoid predictability.

Overall, this episode of The Thriller Zone provides listeners with an engaging and insightful conversation about Todd Goldberg's writing career, his fascination with gangsters, and his approach to storytelling.

To learn more about Tod visit his website: TodGoldberg.com and purchase his book on Amazon here. Who knows, maybe Tod will give you a bonus prize when you mention you heard about his book while listening to The Thriller Zone Podcast.

Listen: TheThrillerZone.com and ALL Podcast Channels. Watch: YouTube.com/thethrillerzone

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TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Introduction and appreciation for the book from people who have just gotten out of prison

00:01:25 - Todd Goldberg's head cold and his role as a director of a low residency MFA program

00:02:07 - Todd Goldberg's surprise at not being on the podcast earlier

00:03:13 - Todd Goldberg's thoughts on the talent of his family and the influence of his parents

00:04:50 - Todd Goldberg's hope that his parents are proud

00:05:40 - Todd Goldberg's excitement about being featured on Rising Stars month

00:06:43 - Todd Goldberg's thoughts on the fascination with gangster stories and the appeal of getting away with it

00:08:10 - Todd Goldberg's personal connection to the desert and his research on organized crime

00:10:49 - Todd Goldberg's encounter with an actual gangster at a book signing

00:14:57 - Todd Goldberg's reflection on the impact of his books and the changes in his career

00:17:12 - Todd Goldberg's appreciation for the prologue and the significance of the first and last lines

00:25:27 - Todd Goldberg's personal story about a friend with cancer and its influence on the character development in the book

00:26:28 - Todd Goldberg's perspective on happy endings and the ambiguity of right and wrong

00:27:48 - Todd Goldberg's belief in leaving endings open and allowing readers to create their own resolution

00:29:30 - Todd Goldberg's discussion on the fascination with the dark side of human nature and the influence of cultural upbringing

00:30:44 - Todd Goldberg's emphasis on resilience and fighting for what you love

00:34:42 - Todd Goldberg's experience as a professor and his philosophy of treating writing as a business

00:36:50 - Todd Goldberg's plans for the adaptation of "Gangsters Don't Die" into a screen project

00:40:19 - Todd Goldberg's mention of the hiatus of the "Literary Disco" podcast and the continued friendship with co-hosts

00:42:58 - Todd Goldberg's advice on writing endings from Donald Westlake

00:48:54 - Closing remarks and gratitude from Todd Goldberg

The Thriller Zone promises to wrap 2024 in a BIG way...Stay Tuned! Questions? Just write us at "[email protected]"

Mentioned in this episode:

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

Hello and welcome to the 161st episode of The Thriller Zone. Today marks the next to the last time an author will appear on this podcast in 2023. I’m your host David Temple and our guest is a member of our RISING STAR MONTH.

Steve Stratton is an author I’ve followed for nearly two years, and today I’m excited to present his new thriller, SHADOW SANCTION, the latest in the Lance Bear Wolf Series.

Today, Steve talks to me about his illustrious career in the military, and the secret service, and shares several of his experiences as a thriller writer. Perhaps best of all—for foodies like me and Steve—we get to discuss a passion other than writing; that of good food.

To learn more visit: SteveStrattonUSA.com and of course, follow us at TheThrillerZone.com and all Podcast Channels, as well as YouTube.com/thethrillerzone

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In this conversation, Steve Stratton discusses his background in the military and the Secret Service, as well as his passion for food and culinary experiences. He shares how his experiences have influenced his writing and the development of his main character, Lance Bear Wolf. Steve also talks about his growth as an author and his future writing projects. 

Some of the principal themes discussed include differentiating the protagonist, the persistence of cartels, the importance of attention to detail—especially as it pertains to branding—lessons learned, the changing landscape of publishing, and both the power of self-publishing and the changing perception of self-publishing in the industry. 

Overall, the conversation highlights the joy and value of storytelling and the impact it can have on both writers and readers.

Chapters
00:00 -Introduction and Background
02:03 - Passion for Food and Culinary Experiences
04:08 - Early Career and Entry into the White House
08:23 - Transition to the Secret Service
11:07 - Joining the National Guard's 20th Special Forces Group
16:00 - Writing Style and Growth as an Author
20:35 - Future Writing Projects
26:07 - Creation of the Character Lance Bear Wolf
27:05 - Differentiating the Protagonist
28:31 - Learning from Jack Carr
31:27 - The Persistence of Cartels
33:00 - The Octopus-Like Reach of Cartels
34:23 - The Importance of Attention to Detail and Branding
36:30 - Lessons Learned in Writing
40:11 - The Importance of Editing and Conciseness
43:08 - Learning the Publishing Side of the Business
45:03 - The Changing Landscape of Publishing
50:24 - The Challenges and Opportunities of Self-Publishing
53:27 - The Power of Self-Publishing
54:25 - The Power of Self-Publishing
57:13 - The Role of Agents in Publishing
59:23 - Continuing to Learn and Progress
01:01:33 - The Importance of Community
01:05:36 - Rapid Fire Questions
01:11:04 - The Love for History and Perspectives
01:14:27 - Dinner at the French Laundry
01:18:19 - Don't Let Your Ego Control Your Writing
01:20:24 - Book Recommendation: Shadow Sanction
01:20:51 - Personal Background and California
01:21:20 - Reflections on Life and Writing
01:22:09 - The Importance of Reading and Writing
01:23:23 - Commitment and Discipline in Writing
01:24:15 - Final Thoughts and Lunch Plans
01:25:15 - Writing Less Complex Stories
01:26:11 - Deepening Character Development
01:27:20 - The Importance of Characters in Books
01:28:13 - The Role of Setting in Books
01:29:10 - Recommended Book: The Spy Coast
01:30:08 - Appreciating Characters and Craftsmanship
01:31:10 - The Influence of Personal Experience
01:32:04 - The Power of Fully Fleshed Out Characters
01:33:13 - Writing in the Flow State
01:34:02 - The Joy of Writing in the Flow State
01:35:26 - The Benefits of Face-to-Face Interactions
01:36:25 - Book Recommendation: Gangsters Don't Die
01:37:39 - The Desire for More Face-to-Face Interviews
01:39:07 - The Importance of Face-to-Face Interviews
01:40:03 - The Impact of Face-to-Face Interactions
01:41:17 - The Value of In-Person Conversations

all times are approx.

The Thriller Zone promises to wrap 2024 in a BIG way...Stay Tuned! Questions? Just write us at "[email protected]"

Mentioned in this episode:

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com