The Write Atmosphere: A Podcast for Writers

What happens when we quiet the noise and listen to the stories waiting to emerge?In this episode, we talk with Ken Breniman, an award-winning Atmosphere author, therapist, yoga teacher, death doula, professor, and filmmaker-in-the-making. Ken shares how meditation, movement, intuition, grief, and lived experience shape his writing—and why writers can benefit from trusting what is simmering beneath the surface.We also discuss embodied practices for writers, the role of AI in the writing process, and the courage it takes to share stories that come from the heart, body, and soul.To learn more about Ken and his books, visit Atmosphere Press.

What does it take to find courage when life puts you in a desperate situation—and how can those experiences shape the person you become?

In this episode, we talk with Marsha Jacobson, an award-winning memoirist, writing consultant, speaker, and workshop leader. After a successful career as a senior executive, Marsha wrote her memoir, The Wrong Calamity, revealing the traumatic personal experiences she had kept hidden for decades.

Marsha shares her perspective on being a woman in the corporate world, navigating adversity, and finding the courage to move forward when circumstances feel overwhelming. We also discuss how lived experiences can become a source of strength and how writing can help us tell the stories we may have been afraid to share.

Through keynotes, workshops, webinars, and coaching, Marsha helps others meet adversity with strength and supports writers on their own creative journeys. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, anthologies, and online media.

To learn more about Marsha, visit marshajacobsonauthor.com.

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What does it take to find courage when life puts you in a desperate situation—and how can those experiences shape the person you become?In this episode, we talk with Marsha Jacobson, an award-winning memoirist, writing consultant, speaker, and workshop leader. After a successful career as a senior executive, Marsha wrote her memoir, The Wrong Calamity, revealing the traumatic personal experiences she had kept hidden for decades.Marsha shares her perspective on being a woman in the corporate world, navigating adversity, and finding the courage to move forward when circumstances feel overwhelming. We also discuss how lived experiences can become a source of strength and how writing can help us tell the stories we may have been afraid to share.Through keynotes, workshops, webinars, and coaching, Marsha helps others meet adversity with strength and supports writers on their own creative journeys. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, anthologies, and online media.To learn more about Marsha, visit marshajacobsonauthor.com.Subscribe to the Atmosphere Press YouTube Channel for notifications!https://www.youtube.com/@atmospherepressSign up for the Atmosphere Press newsletter to stay in the know!https://atmospherepress.com/newsletter/

What happens when creativity meets the business side of the art world—and how can artists use AI without losing their creative voice?

In this episode, we sit down with Felipe Betim, who holds a degree in Graphic Design and works as a cover designer, illustrator, and book trailer manager at Atmosphere Press. Felipe is also an independent writer who has self-published four fantasy books.

We talk about what it means to work well with AI as a creative professional, the world of illustration and fantasy writing, and the important difference between creative art and business art. Felipe shares insights into balancing artistic expression with the practical demands of creating work for clients and audiences.

Whether you're a writer, illustrator, designer, or simply someone interested in the evolving relationship between creativity and technology, this conversation offers plenty to think about.

When he isn't creating art or writing fantasy, Felipe enjoys spending time with his wife and their two feline children.

Learn more about Felip here: Insta: instagram.com/oextraimaginario/

Tik tok: tiktok.com/@oextraimaginario

Portfolio: felipebetim.myportfolio.com/

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In this episode, I'm joined by Heather Jefferson, a 500-hour registered yoga teacher, movement program manager, yoga teacher trainer, retreat leader, and author of the memoir Daughter Unbound: Breaking the Chains of Generational Trauma.

Heather shares the deeply personal story behind her memoir and how writing became a way to process her experiences, break through shame, and offer connection and hope to others who may have experienced similar circumstances. Together, we explore her journey from becoming an author to becoming a yogi, and how yoga became an important part of her own healing journey.

In this episode, we discuss:

* Heather's journey from author to yoga teacher and how the two paths intersect.

* The role of shame and how it can shape the way we see ourselves and our stories.

* Why Heather chose to share her personal story through Daughter Unbound.

* How yoga became a tool for healing, self-awareness, and reconnecting with herself.

* The connection between movement, mindfulness, and emotional healing.

* What it means to break the cycles of generational trauma.

* The courage it takes to tell your story and allow others to feel less alone.

Whether you're on your own healing journey, curious about the connection between yoga and emotional wellness, or simply wondering how sharing your story can create connection and hope, this episode offers an honest and heartfelt conversation about shame, healing, and finding your way back to yourself.

Learn more about Heather here:

heather-jefferson.net

Instagram: @enlightened_yoga

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Social media can feel overwhelming, especially for authors who would rather be writing than posting. But what if it didn't have to be?

In this episode, I'm joined by Madison Manning, Social Media Services Manager at Atmosphere Press. Madison works with authors to create thoughtful social media strategies that help them connect with readers, grow their audience, and build a lasting literary presence online.

Together, we explore how authors can approach social media in a way that feels authentic, creative, and sustainable, even on the days they don't feel like showing up.

In this episode, we discuss:

* Why social media matters for authors in today's publishing landscape.

* How to stay visible without feeling like you're constantly selling.

* Creative content ideas that go beyond "buy my book" posts.

* Building genuine community instead of chasing follower counts.

* Finding a social media rhythm that works for your personality and energy.

* Practical tips for showing up consistently, even when you don't feel inspired.

Whether you're just getting started or looking for fresh ways to engage with readers, this conversation is full of encouraging, actionable ideas to help you make social media work for you, not the other way around.

About Madison Manning

Madison Manning is the Social Media Services Manager at Atmosphere Press, where she creates tailored content and strategic campaigns that help authors connect with readers and strengthen their literary brands. From designing engaging posts and planning book launches to developing long-term social media strategies, Madison combines creativity, storytelling, and digital marketing expertise to help authors build meaningful online communities.

If social media has ever felt intimidating, exhausting, or simply like one more thing on your to-do list, this episode will leave you with practical ideas and renewed confidence for sharing your work with the world.

Atmosphere Press: Social Media Services for Authors:

https://atmospherepress.com/masterclass-and-social-media-pro/

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On this episode of The Write Atmosphere, we sit down with Amy Kelly, founder of Lone Star Literary Life, to discuss how authors can effectively pitch themselves to podcasts, media outlets, and reviewers. Amy shares practical advice on writing email pitches that get noticed, building meaningful relationships in the publishing world, and creating opportunities to grow an author platform.

We also explore the role of AI in the creative process, discussing how writers can use it as a tool while maintaining their unique voice. Plus, Amy offers insights for new authors navigating the challenges of publishing, marketing, and finding their place in today's literary landscape. Whether you're preparing to launch your first book or looking to expand your reach as an author, this conversation is packed with actionable advice and encouragement.

About Amy Kelly:
Amy Kelly is a fixture in the North Texas literary scene and a passionate advocate for authors. Through Lone Star Literary Life, she helps writers expand their reach through marketing, media opportunities, and practical education on building an author platform.

Amy previously hosted the In the Middle of It podcast and co-hosted the Time to Write podcast, giving her firsthand experience in how compelling stories move from a simple pitch email to engaging conversations on the air.

She lives in Frisco, Texas, with her husband and occasionally her two college-aged children.

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For more from Amy and Lone Star Literary Life

https://lonestar-lit.com

Content warning - brief, timestamped discussions of child abuse

On this episode of The Write Atmosphere, we sit down with John Cheyenne, author of Grace Notes, to discuss the 10-year journey behind his debut autofiction novel. John shares how his experiences—from leaving ministry to ultimately returning to preaching—inspired the story and shaped his writing.

We explore the creative process behind Grace Notes, the role of personal experience in fiction, and what John learned along the way. Whether you're a writer, reader, or interested in stories of faith and transformation, this conversation offers thoughtful insights and inspiration.

About John Cheyenne:
John Cheyenne is the author of Grace Notes. A former Presbyterian minister, journalist, and arts critic, he now lives in California, where he continues to write and preach.

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Visit Cheyenne here:

https://johncheyennewilbur.com

Grace Notes available here!

https://atmospherepress.com/books/grace-notes-by-john-cheyenne-wilbur/

On this episode of The Write Atmosphere, we sit down with Karli, Social Media and Digital Marketing Professional at Atmosphere Press, to explore how authors can use social media to build meaningful connections with readers and grow their author platform. Karli shares practical strategies for creating engaging content, developing an authentic online presence, and using digital marketing to reach the right audience without feeling overwhelmed.

On this episode of The Write Atmosphere, we sit down with Mia Coombs, Book Publicity Manager at Atmosphere Press, to explore what it really takes to get your book into readers' hands. Mia shares practical advice on building an effective book publicity strategy, marketing your work with confidence, and avoiding common publishing and promotional scams that target authors.