The Writing Community Chat Show

The Writing Community Chat Show

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The Writing Community Chat Show episodes

  • JD Kirk Talks New Thriller, David Tennant Narration & Writing Tips for Authors.
    JD Kirk is Back – and He's Shaking Things Up!Two weeks ago, our paid subscribers got early access to a very special episode. Now, it’s time to share it with everyone. And trust us, you’re going to love this one.We welcomed back JD Kirk, the multi-million copy bestselling author of the beloved DCI Logan crime series… but this time, he’s bringing something new to the table.JD (aka Barry Hutchison) joins us to talk about his bold new direction, a psychological thriller titled My Daughter Is Missing, publishing with Bookouture on April 16, 2025. But don’t expect a genre checklist. JD’s shift isn’t about following trends. It’s about writing what he loves, and telling the kind of deeply personal, tension-filled stories that keep readers (and writers) up at night.My Daughter Is Missing: A totally addictive psychological thriller with a jaw-dropping twist.My little girl has vanished. And I can't tell anyone...My nine-year-old daughter Hollie should be leaving school smiling and laughing with all the other children but she's not here. I run frantically, checking everywhere, but I can't see her. Pure panic washes over me. This is my worst nightmare.Her teacher asks if she should call the police. My heart stops. I shake my head and pretend I've made a mistake. The police can't know. No one can.My hands shake as I know in my gut my daughter hasn't just wandered off. She's been taken. Someone must know the truth about my past...I've spent so long protecting Hollie, but I always knew this day might come. And I'll stop at nothing to get my little girl.BUY IT HERE!🔍 In this episode:* How JD wrote his first draft in just 16 days — and why messy is magical.* The thrill of having David Tennant narrate his new book.* Why he writes on a walking treadmill — and walks faster during intense scenes.* What’s next for the DCI Logan universe — including upcoming spin-offs.* His leap into film writing, with one movie premiering in New York and another script underway.* Plus: genuine, practical writing advice and loads of laughter.💬 Whether you’re an aspiring author, a seasoned pro, or just a fan of great storytelling, this one is packed with gold.🎥 Watch the full episode now:🎙️ Or listen to our Spreaker Prime Show: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493 [Or check it out on Spotify/Apple/Your Podcast Platform]🟨 Want to be part of the live shows?Paid members get exclusive early access, the chance to ask their own questions live, and join us in the aftershow chat with CJ and Chris Hooley. Support the show and unlock the full experience:Let us know what you think in the comments. And if you’re as excited as we are for JD’s new thriller, hit that share button. 🖤See you next week,CJ & Chris#WritingCommunity #JDKirk #Podcast #DCILogan #ThrillerWriters

    This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribe

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.

    Connect With The Community

    🏆 Ranked #3 Writing Podcast in the UK (2025) The WCCS is more than a show; it’s a masterclass in the craft and business of storytelling. Join 380+ interviews with NYT Bestsellers, Indie Icons, and Celebrities.
    • 📺 Watch the Full Shows: The Writing Community Chat Show | 360+ Author Interviews, Writing Tips & Creative Chaos.
    • ✍️ The Stories Behind the Stories And Great Writing Articles: WRITE, CONNECT, GROW, With The Writing Community Chat Show. | 📚The WCCS | Substack
    • 🚀 Support the Mission With Tips And Donations: PayPal.Me
    Together as one, we get it done! The Writing Community Chat Show is a proud supporter of indie authors and creative persistence.
    1 hr 5 min
  • Men’s Mental Health: The Battle We Don’t Talk About | Raw, Real & Life-Saving.
    There are moments in life, and in podcasting, when something shifts.This was one of those moments.In our latest episode, Tough Guys Are an Endangered Species, we opened a door that many still keep firmly shut:What happens when men feel broken, lost, and alone, and why don’t we talk about it?This wasn’t just another chat.It was an honest, emotional, and transformative conversation between three men who know the weight of silence all too well.👊 Meet Skip – A Man Who’s Walked Through FireOur guest, Dr. “Skip” Mondragon, is a retired Army Colonel, physician, national wrestling champion, and author of Wrestling Depression Is Not for Wimps.But more than anything, Skip is a man who’s faced the dark and chose to speak up so others might find their way out.💬 “This isn’t weakness. This is bravery in its purest form.”What unfolded in this episode was raw, powerful, and healing.Together, Chris Aggett, Chris Hooley, and Skip shared real stories and serious truths:* Growing up believing tears were failure.* The silent weight of loneliness.* Facing the edge, and choosing to step back.* The vital need for a “Battle Buddy” — someone who truly sees you.* The impossible choice between addiction, faith, or suicide.* Why talking could be the difference between life and loss.🧠 Real Talk, Real ToolsThis episode offers more than just awareness—it gives practical support.You’ll come away with:* Steps to take today if you’re struggling* How to help someone else who might be* Why asking for help is true strength* How to find, or be someone’s Battle Buddy* A new definition of masculinity that leaves no one behind🚨 You Are Not Alone: Support ResourcesIf you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t wait to ask for help.UK Support* 📞 Samaritans – 116 123 (free, 24/7)* 📱 SHOUT Crisis Text Line – Text SHOUT to 85258* 🌐 samaritans.orgUS Support* 📞 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Dial 988 (free, 24/7)* 📱 Crisis Text Line – Text HELLO to 741741* 🌐 988lifeline.orgWherever you are in the world, you can find support. You matter.And you’re never as alone as you think.📘 Wrestling Depression Is Not for WimpsLessons Learned from an Amateur Wrestler’s Fight to Triumph Over DepressionAuthor: Dr. Skip Mondragón - Wrestling Depression Is Not For Wimps.In Wrestling Depression Is Not for Wimps, Dr. Skip Mondragón—a retired U.S. Army Medical Corps Colonel, Iraqi War veteran, and National Veterans Wrestling Champion, shares his personal journey through depression. Drawing parallels between the discipline of wrestling and the battle against mental illness, he offers practical strategies to overcome depression. The book emphasizes the importance of seeking help, the power of community, and the role of faith in recovery. Written in accessible language with short, actionable chapters, it's a valuable resource for anyone grappling with depression or supporting someone who is.​Purchase the book:Amazon – Wrestling Depression Is Not for Wimps🖤 To Every Listener: You Are Not BrokenWe all wear masks.We all carry things we don’t talk about.Sometimes, just hearing someone say “me too” is enough to make it through another day.Let this episode be that voice.Whether you’re battling dark thoughts or just feeling low and invisible, this is your reminder: there’s no shame in hurting, and no shame in healing.We’re so grateful to Skip for his honesty and to all of you for being here.Together, we can end the silence.Together, we can be better.THE WCCS - TOGETHER AS ONE WE GET IT DONE.🖤~ CJ Aggett & Chris Hooley.WATCH THE INTERVIEW HERE:

    This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribe

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.

    Connect With The Community

    🏆 Ranked #3 Writing Podcast in the UK (2025) The WCCS is more than a show; it’s a masterclass in the craft and business of storytelling. Join 380+ interviews with NYT Bestsellers, Indie Icons, and Celebrities.
    • 📺 Watch the Full Shows: The Writing Community Chat Show | 360+ Author Interviews, Writing Tips & Creative Chaos.
    • ✍️ The Stories Behind the Stories And Great Writing Articles: WRITE, CONNECT, GROW, With The Writing Community Chat Show. | 📚The WCCS | Substack
    • 🚀 Support the Mission With Tips And Donations: PayPal.Me
    Together as one, we get it done! The Writing Community Chat Show is a proud supporter of indie authors and creative persistence.
    1 hr 4 min
  • New Episode: Sara Banyan on Mental Health, Trauma, and Dating for Dudes.
    This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit thewccs.substack.com

    We’ve had some powerful conversations on this show… but this one? This one might top them all.Sara Banyan—Hollywood coach, mental health advocate, and author of Dating for Dudes, joined us for an unforgettable episode that had our live audience buzzing.Seriously. The chat was lighting up with words like "AMAZING," "deeply moving," and "one of the best episodes yet." And they weren’t wrong.Sara brings a unique blend of humor, heart, and hard-earned wisdom. From her early days working with stars like George Clooney and Ted Danson, to coaching some of the biggest names in sport and entertainment, she’s seen behind the curtain of confidence, and knows what it takes to build the real thing.In this conversation, we dive deep into:* 💬 The emotional weight men carry into dating (and what to do about it)* 🧠 Mental health, trauma, and the voices we inherit that hold us back.* ❤️ Why authenticity is sexier than strategy.* 🤝 Advice for women, too, because this isn’t just a “dude” problem.* 🎭 The Mornell Method: how to stop acting and start being.Sara doesn’t just coach performers. She helps people show up as their truest selves, in relationships, in their work, and in life.And yes, there’s plenty of name-dropping (the good kind), stories from inside the industry, and a few hilarious insights from her coaching files.But what makes this episode truly special?Sara’s ability to make you feel seen, even through a screen.https://www.sarabanyan.com/About Dating for DudesThis isn't your average “how to get a girlfriend” book. Dating for Dudes is a field guide to confidence, vulnerability, and connection, with a heavy dose of humor and tough love. Sara covers everything from rejection resilience to writing dating profiles that don’t make people cringe. She helps guys rediscover who they really are before they go looking for someone else.Because the truth is: most of us are acting, whether we’re on stage or swiping on Tinder. And Sara's mission is to help people stop performing and start being, in dating, in life, in everything.Buy it here.💙 If You’re Struggling with Mental HealthIf you’ve been affected by anything discussed in this episode, or if you’re struggling with your mental health, please know you are not alone. Support is available, and reaching out can be the first step toward healing.UK Support:* Samaritans – 24/7 free support for anyone in distress📞 Call 116 123 | 🌐 www.samaritans.org* Mind – Mental health resources, helplines, and support🌐 www.mind.org.ukUS Support:* 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Free, confidential 24/7 support📞 Call or text 988 | 🌐 988lifeline.org* NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) – Resources, support, and education📞 Helpline: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) | 🌐 www.nami.orgYou matter. Help is always here when you need it. 💬💙🎟 Paid subscribers get exclusive 2-week early access to both the video and audio version of the episode. Trust us, you don’t want to wait. After the 2 weeks, you will be able to watch this on our YouTube channel and listen anywhere you get your podcasts. Whether you’re dating, healing, or just want to better understand the people around you, this is one to sit with.Let us know what you think in the comments. We’d love to hear what hit home for you.— CJ & ChrisThe Writing Community Chat ShowWATCH THE INTERVIEW BELOW THIS LINE:

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.
    1 min
  • Book mail!


    This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribe

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.

    Connect With The Community

    🏆 Ranked #3 Writing Podcast in the UK (2025) The WCCS is more than a show; it’s a masterclass in the craft and business of storytelling. Join 380+ interviews with NYT Bestsellers, Indie Icons, and Celebrities.
    • 📺 Watch the Full Shows: The Writing Community Chat Show | 360+ Author Interviews, Writing Tips & Creative Chaos.
    • ✍️ The Stories Behind the Stories And Great Writing Articles: WRITE, CONNECT, GROW, With The Writing Community Chat Show. | 📚The WCCS | Substack
    • 🚀 Support the Mission With Tips And Donations: PayPal.Me
    Together as one, we get it done! The Writing Community Chat Show is a proud supporter of indie authors and creative persistence.
    7 min
  • Exclusive Early Access: Chad Boudreaux, From Homeland Security to Hurricane-Level Suspense.
    This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit thewccs.substack.com

    Hey writers and thriller lovers,We’re thrilled to bring you an exclusive early look at one of our most riveting interviews yet, only for our incredible paid subscribers.🎙️ In this episode, we sit down with Chad Boudreaux, former DOJ litigator, Homeland Security deputy chief of staff, corporate legal powerhouse… and now, a bestselling thriller author making serious waves.Chad’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. From his first day at the U.S. Department of Justice (which happened to be September 10th, 2001), to handling terrorism litigation at the highest level, and later advising Fortune 500 defense contractors, he’s lived the kind of high-stakes life most writers can only dream up.His latest novel, Scavenger Hunt, is a gripping tale set in the corrupt town of Miranda, Texas, as a deadly hurricane closes in, and one woman races to save her sister while outrunning dark secrets, corrupt leaders, and nature itself.In this interview, we dive into:* How real-world security, law, and crisis shaped his fiction.* What makes Anika Raven one of his most compelling heroines.* The fine line between classified insight and creative license.* How to write action with authenticity and heart.* His take on the current thriller landscape and what’s next for him as an author.👉 Watch the full interview below or listen via podcast, only here, two weeks before it goes public.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.
    1 min
  • Award-winning filmmaker and author JOSH MENDOZA joins The Writing Community Chat Show!
    We’ve interviewed hundreds of writers on The Writing Community Chat Show, but this one stands out, because our latest guest brings not only writing chops but serious filmmaking cred to the table.In this brand-new public episode, we sat down with Josh Mendoza, the award-winning filmmaker of What Still Remains and now the debut author of the sci-fi noir novel Shadow of the Eternal Watcher.You can now watch the full interview right here on YouTube:Trust us, this one’s worth your time.🎥 Who Is Josh Mendoza?Josh is a Stanford-educated storyteller with an MFA in Film and TV Production from USC’s School of Cinematic Arts. He’s best known for his post-apocalyptic feature film What Still Remains, which earned critical acclaim for its intimate, emotional take on survival and society.But now? He’s taken everything he learned in film and poured it into the written word.His new book, Shadow of the Eternal Watcher, blends noir detective fiction with mind-bending science fiction, delivering a story full of psychological depth, action, and philosophical intrigue.📖 About the BookDuster Raines has demons. Some haunt his dreams. Others? They show him a life he’s never lived, one of wealth, fame, and power. But when a missing person case leads to him being framed and hunted, Raines discovers he has the power to bend spacetime… and that his alternate self may be the one standing in his way.“It’s gritty, it’s smart, it’s cinematic.”💬 What We Talked About in the Interview:Our chat with Josh is split into three powerful rounds:🛣️ Round One: The Road to WritingHow Josh went from screenwriting to directing films, and ultimately to novel writing. The challenges, the crossovers, and why writing a book felt like returning home.📚 Round Two: Shadow of the Eternal WatcherA deep dive into the themes of identity, trauma, and alternate realities. Josh explains how the character of Duster Raines came to life and why the story feels so personal.🧠 Round Three: Community QuestionsWe hit Josh with our signature questions, plus a few wildcards from our amazing live audience.✨ Why You Should WatchThis is more than just an interview, it’s a rare peek behind the curtain of two worlds: independent film and modern publishing.Whether you’re:* A writer curious about storytelling from a director’s POV* A sci-fi reader looking for your next mind-bending book* Or just someone who loves listening to creative minds break down their craft…This episode delivers.❤️ Help Us Grow This ShowIf you loved this conversation, please:* Leave a comment on the video* Share the YouTube link with a fellow reader or writer* Become a free or paid subscriber here on Substack to support the show!Your support allows us to keep bringing on incredible guests like Josh, uncovering the stories behind the storytellers.Thanks for being here. And don’t forget, subscribe, share, and stay creative.👇 Drop your thoughts or questions in the comments, we read every one.

    This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribe

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.

    Connect With The Community

    🏆 Ranked #3 Writing Podcast in the UK (2025) The WCCS is more than a show; it’s a masterclass in the craft and business of storytelling. Join 380+ interviews with NYT Bestsellers, Indie Icons, and Celebrities.
    • 📺 Watch the Full Shows: The Writing Community Chat Show | 360+ Author Interviews, Writing Tips & Creative Chaos.
    • ✍️ The Stories Behind the Stories And Great Writing Articles: WRITE, CONNECT, GROW, With The Writing Community Chat Show. | 📚The WCCS | Substack
    • 🚀 Support the Mission With Tips And Donations: PayPal.Me
    Together as one, we get it done! The Writing Community Chat Show is a proud supporter of indie authors and creative persistence.
    1 hr 3 min
  • A Journey Through Wanderlust, Our Conversation with L. Costevelos.
    We had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with debut author L. Costevelos. Known for her imaginative blend of psychological thrillers, romance, and fantasy, L has captured readers’ hearts and minds with her first novel Wanderlust, a haunting, twisting story that challenges the very nature of reality itself.And what a conversation it was.For those of you who joined us live (thank you, paid subscribers!), you already know how deeply inspiring and refreshingly honest L was.From Dreams to DebutL. Costevelos has been a storyteller since childhood, always imagining the mystery hiding around every corner. During the interview, she shared how her sense of adventure, from solo backpacking trips across the world to living with a cat who thinks he’s a dog, shaped the writer she is today.Her path to publishing Wanderlust wasn't without its challenges. L spoke openly about the doubts she faced while writing her first novel, the moments of fear, the bouts of imposter syndrome, and the question every writer wrestles with: "Am I good enough?"Inside the World of WanderlustWe dove deep into Wanderlust, a novel that begins with Raine Black holding a knife and no memory of the crime she’s accused of.L explained that she wanted to write a story where reality wasn’t fixed, where readers would constantly question whether what they were reading was truly happening or just a fractured, desperate version of the truth.She revealed that mental health was a natural part of the story's evolution:“I didn’t set out to write a book about mental health, but as Raine’s story unfolded, it became clear that the lines between trauma, fantasy, and survival were impossible to ignore.”One of the most interesting behind-the-scenes details? The character of Nicholas, the creature who guides Raine into the parallel world of Wanderlust, came to her in a dream during a particularly stressful time. She wrote the first scene with him almost immediately after waking up, and he never left the story.The Creative Process and What's NextWhen it comes to writing, L described herself as a "plantser" — someone who plans just enough to get started but loves discovering the story as she writes.She also shared how important it is to embrace mistakes along the way:“Your first draft isn't meant to be perfect. It's meant to be passionate. Trust that you can fix it later.”As for what’s next?L teased that she is working on a brand-new psychological thriller, darker and even twistier than Wanderlust, but she’s taking her time, making sure the story lives up to the standard she’s now set for herself.She also hinted (with a knowing smile) that she may return to the world of Wanderlust one day.Final ThoughtsL. Costevelos is the kind of writer, and person, who makes you believe in the power of stories all over again. Her journey to Wanderlust, filled with resilience, creativity, and raw honesty, is a reminder that every great book starts with someone daring to say yes to their wildest ideas.We are so excited to see what comes next for her. If you haven’t yet picked up Wanderlust, now is the time, trust us, you won't want to miss the ride.Thank you again to all our paid subscribers who joined us live and got early access to this incredible conversation. Keep an eye out for the public release of the interview in two weeks!Until then, keep writing, keep dreaming, and keep chasing those stories.CJ & Chris

    This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribe

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.

    Connect With The Community

    🏆 Ranked #3 Writing Podcast in the UK (2025) The WCCS is more than a show; it’s a masterclass in the craft and business of storytelling. Join 380+ interviews with NYT Bestsellers, Indie Icons, and Celebrities.
    • 📺 Watch the Full Shows: The Writing Community Chat Show | 360+ Author Interviews, Writing Tips & Creative Chaos.
    • ✍️ The Stories Behind the Stories And Great Writing Articles: WRITE, CONNECT, GROW, With The Writing Community Chat Show. | 📚The WCCS | Substack
    • 🚀 Support the Mission With Tips And Donations: PayPal.Me
    Together as one, we get it done! The Writing Community Chat Show is a proud supporter of indie authors and creative persistence.
    1 hr 4 min
  • New Episode: JD Kirk Returns!
    This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit thewccs.substack.com

    In this jam-packed episode, bestselling author JD Kirk (aka Barry Hutchison) joins us to talk about his bold move into psychological thrillers, not because of market trends, but from his love of storytelling itself.JD shares incredible insights into his writing process, including how he smashed out a messy first draft in just 16 days before carefully sculpting it into something readers will love. Expect plenty of practical writing advice, real talk about surviving the creative journey, and a few hilarious behind-the-scenes stories!We also dive into:* 🎧 His dream-come-true experience of having David Tennant narrate his new book* 🚶‍♂️ How a walking treadmill keeps him energized (and how his speed changes during tense scenes!)* 🔎 What's next for the beloved DCI Logan universe, including spin-offs* 🎬 His exciting film projects, including a movie premiering soon in New York and a brand-new screenplay in the works!This is one of those episodes packed with laughs, inspiration, and insider wisdom for writers and readers alike. You don’t want to miss it!Watch the early access video below, it will drop onto the public platform in 2 weeks.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.
    3 min
  • Now Free to Watch & Listen: Dr. Poppy Gibson on Teaching, Wellbeing, and Understanding Young Minds.
    Dr. Gibson is a leading voice in education and mental health, and our chat covered so many essential topics that every teacher, parent, and learner will find something to take away from it.🎙️ What we talked about:* The everyday reality of teaching in primary schools.* How understanding child psychology can transform classroom practice.* Supporting young people in the digital age.* The power of reading in unlocking potential.* How to talk to kids about difficult topics.* And crucially: how teachers can look after their own mental health and avoid burnout.Dr. Gibson brings a wealth of experience, from her time teaching in London schools to her groundbreaking research and her latest book, Who Am I Teaching: How a Better Understanding of Children Improves Primary Teaching and Learning. Her work is a reminder of how much impact a thoughtful, well-supported teacher can have.👉 Whether you're a teacher yourself, a parent navigating tricky conversations, or just someone who cares about the future of education, this one’s for you.🎧 Listen to the podcast on your favorite podcast platforms.We are a Spreaker Prime show! 👉 The Writing Community Chat Show📺 Watch the full video now on our YouTube channel. 👉 The Writing Community Chat Show - YouTubeIt’s now completely FREE to access, so please share it with colleagues, friends, and anyone passionate about education.👇 Enjoy the show and let us know your thoughts in the comments!#TheWritingCommunityChatShow #PoppyGibson #EducationMatters #TeacherWellbeing #ChildDevelopment #MentalHealthInSchools #PodcastNowLive

    This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribe

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.

    Connect With The Community

    🏆 Ranked #3 Writing Podcast in the UK (2025) The WCCS is more than a show; it’s a masterclass in the craft and business of storytelling. Join 380+ interviews with NYT Bestsellers, Indie Icons, and Celebrities.
    • 📺 Watch the Full Shows: The Writing Community Chat Show | 360+ Author Interviews, Writing Tips & Creative Chaos.
    • ✍️ The Stories Behind the Stories And Great Writing Articles: WRITE, CONNECT, GROW, With The Writing Community Chat Show. | 📚The WCCS | Substack
    • 🚀 Support the Mission With Tips And Donations: PayPal.Me
    Together as one, we get it done! The Writing Community Chat Show is a proud supporter of indie authors and creative persistence.
    1 hr 2 min
  • A MUST WATCH - Tough Guys Are an Endangered Species A Deep Dive into Men’s Mental Health.
    This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit thewccs.substack.com

    There are moments in life, and in podcasting, when something shifts.This was one of those moments.In our latest episode, Tough Guys Are an Endangered Species, we opened a door that many still keep firmly shut:What happens when men feel broken, lost, and alone, and why don’t we talk about it?This wasn’t just another chat.It was an honest, emotional, and transformative conversation between three men who know the weight of silence all too well.👊 Meet Skip – A Man Who’s Walked Through FireOur guest, Dr. “Skip” Mondragon, is a retired Army Colonel, physician, national wrestling champion, and author of Wrestling Depression Is Not for Wimps.But more than anything, Skip is a man who’s faced the dark and chose to speak up so others might find their way out.💬 “This isn’t weakness. This is bravery in its purest form.”What unfolded in this episode was raw, powerful, and healing.Together, Chris Aggett, Chris Hooley, and Skip shared real stories and serious truths:* Growing up believing tears were failure* The silent weight of loneliness* Facing the edge, and choosing to step back* The vital need for a “Battle Buddy” — someone who truly sees you* The impossible choice between addiction, faith, or suicide* Why talking could be the difference between life and loss🧠 Real Talk, Real ToolsThis episode offers more than just awareness—it gives practical support.You’ll come away with:* Steps to take today if you’re struggling* How to help someone else who might be* Why asking for help is true strength* How to find, or be someone’s Battle Buddy* A new definition of masculinity that leaves no one behind🚨 You Are Not Alone: Support ResourcesIf you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t wait to ask for help.UK Support* 📞 Samaritans – 116 123 (free, 24/7)* 📱 SHOUT Crisis Text Line – Text SHOUT to 85258* 🌐 samaritans.orgUS Support* 📞 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Dial 988 (free, 24/7)* 📱 Crisis Text Line – Text HELLO to 741741* 🌐 988lifeline.orgWherever you are in the world, you can find support. You matter.And you’re never as alone as you think.📘 Wrestling Depression Is Not for WimpsLessons Learned from an Amateur Wrestler’s Fight to Triumph Over DepressionAuthor: Dr. Skip Mondragón - Wrestling Depression Is Not For Wimps.In Wrestling Depression Is Not for Wimps, Dr. Skip Mondragón—a retired U.S. Army Medical Corps Colonel, Iraqi War veteran, and National Veterans Wrestling Champion, shares his personal journey through depression. Drawing parallels between the discipline of wrestling and the battle against mental illness, he offers practical strategies to overcome depression. The book emphasizes the importance of seeking help, the power of community, and the role of faith in recovery. Written in accessible language with short, actionable chapters, it's a valuable resource for anyone grappling with depression or supporting someone who is.​Purchase the book:Amazon – Wrestling Depression Is Not for Wimps🖤 To Every Listener: You Are Not BrokenWe all wear masks.We all carry things we don’t talk about.Sometimes, just hearing someone say “me too” is enough to make it through another day.Let this episode be that voice.Whether you’re battling dark thoughts or just feeling low and invisible, this is your reminder: there’s no shame in hurting, and no shame in healing.We’re so grateful to Skip for his honesty and to all of you for being here.Together, we can end the silence.Together, we can be better.THE WCCS - TOGETHER AS ONE WE GET IT DONE.🖤~ CJ Aggett & Chris Hooley.🔒 Listen or Watch Now (Paid Subscribers Only – 2 Week Early Access) Watch the video interview below.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.
    3 min

About The Writing Community Chat Show

From the publisher's feed

The Writing Community Chat Show (WCCS)

Ranked #3 Writing Podcast in the UK (2025)"Together as one, we get it done!"

Welcome to The Writing Community Chat…

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