Uncorking a Story

By Michael CarlonComedy Society & Culture Arts Books

Uncorking a Story episodes

April 01, 2025Stories That Find Us: Rochelle Weinstein on Pivots and the Power of Persistence
“The writing is the easiest part. It’s everything after that—the marketing, the visibility, the noise—that makes this business so tough. But you’ve got to keep going.” — Rochelle Weinstein

Bestselling author Rochelle Weinstein joins Uncorking a Story to reflect on the career crossroads that changed her life. After walking away from a successful role in the music industry, Rochelle sat down and wrote her first novel—without any formal training—and took a leap into self-publishing. That leap paid off, launching a career that would eventually include multiple traditionally published books and a spot on the USA Today Bestseller list. In this episode, she shares her honest take on the business of being an author, the realities of breaking through in a crowded market, and the inspiration behind her latest novel, We Are Made of Stars.

Key Takeaways:
One bold decision can change everything. Rochelle turned down a big-city career to follow a creative spark—and ended up writing a bestseller.
You don’t need permission to be an author. She self-published her first two novels and used grit (and marketing smarts) to break through.
Success doesn’t always show up on time. Rochelle didn’t even know she hit the USA Today list—until five years later.
Writing the book is only step one. Rochelle shares why treating your writing like a business is key to longevity in publishing.
Even a single sentence can spark a novel. Rochelle’s next book was born from a note on a prayer tree: “I wish I never met her.”
Her advice to aspiring authors? Keep going. Tune out the noise. And never underestimate the power of your own voice.

Buy We are Made of Stars
Amazon: https://amzn.to/429ozj0
Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781662520884

Connect with Rochelle
Website: https://www.rochelleweinstein.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rochelle.b.weinstein
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rochwein
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rochellebweinstein/

Connect with Mike
Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory
Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/

If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

#RochelleWeinstein #WeAreMadeOfStars #AuthorLife #WritersOfInstagram #BookTok #BookLaunch #WomensFiction #IndieAuthor #WritersJourney #PublishingTips #PodcastLife

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
39 min
March 25, 2025Lighting Up the World: The Extraordinary Power of Fireflies with Julie Wignall
“We all have a light to shine, and today more than ever, the world needs us to shine those lights in all the different areas that are there.” – Julie Wignall

In this illuminating episode of Uncorking a Story, Julie Wignall shares her unconventional journey from marine biology to corporate leadership to writing The Extraordinary Power of Fireflies. She reveals how each of us has an inner light and a unique purpose, and she offers insight into overcoming fear, embracing creativity, and finding meaning in the smallest moments. Through powerful storytelling and real-world examples, Julie inspires us to step into our own brilliance and change the world—one firefly at a time.

Key Themes:
The metaphor of fireflies and why we all have a light to shine
How Julie navigated an unconventional career path spanning science, politics, and business
The importance of storytelling in personal and societal transformation
Strategies for overcoming fear and imposter syndrome
How small, joyful moments shape a meaningful life
The power of finding alternative paths when doors seem closed
Why play and creativity are essential for adults, not just children

Buy The Extraordinary Power of Fireflies: How to Shine Your Light Brighter and Transform the World

Amazon: https://amzn.to/41lrvZr
Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781954920798

Connect with Julie
Website: https://www.extraordinaryfireflies.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/extraordinarypoweroffireflies/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExtraordinaryPowerofFireflies
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-wignall-38548668/

Connect with Mike
Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory
Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/

If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

#UncorkingAStory #JulieWignall #Fireflies #ShineYourLight #OvercomingFear #FindingPurpose #Storytelling #LiveYourPassion #TransformTheWorld

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
49 min
March 18, 2025Kristen Arnett Unpacks Florida, Fiction, and Finding Your Voice
Each book has its own trajectory and process… The things that are meant for you come to you.” – Kristen Arnett

Bestselling author Kristen Arnett joins Uncorking a Story to talk about her latest novel, Stop Me If You’ve Heard This One, a book about a queer birthday clown navigating art, grief, and life in Central Florida. We dive into her writing journey, the importance of place in storytelling, and how her background in library science influences her work. Plus, we discuss clowns, wrestling, Stephen King, and the wild ride of being a full-time writer.

Key Themes:
The Origin Story. Kristen’s journey from childhood writing to bestselling novelist.
The Florida Effect. How the state shapes her work and why she calls herself a “place writer.”
Clowning as Art. The inspiration behind Stop Me If You’ve Heard This One and what she learned researching clowns.
Writing Without a Net. Why she never outlines her books and how each novel has a unique process.
Overcoming Rejection. The reality of publishing and advice for aspiring writers.
Stephen King & Horror Influences. How growing up on banned books and horror fiction shaped her storytelling.
Pop Culture & Wrestling Parallels. What clowns and professional wrestlers have in common.

Buy Stop Me If You've Heard This One
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Fyb8lm
Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9780593719770

Connect with Kristen
Website: https://www.kristenarnettwriter.com/
X: https://x.com/Kristen_Arnett
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristen__arnett

Connect with Mike
Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory
Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/

If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
32 min
March 17, 2025Leading with Purpose: Dr. Kevin McGarry on Leadership, Life, and Lessons
“The number one thing a leader can do is have a vision for their team's careers—yet only 12% of employees say their boss ever talks to them about it.” — Kevin McGarry, Ph.D.

In this episode of Uncorking a Story, we sit down with Dr. Kevin McGarry—leadership expert, CEO of Leading 360, and author of Lead with Purpose. Kevin shares his journey from corporate leadership to academia and back, revealing the insights from his doctoral research on what makes an effective leader. He also talks about his unique approach to writing, the parallels between coaching youth sports and leading in the boardroom, and the deeper purpose behind his book. Plus, he shares how his 13-year-old daughter played a special role in bringing Lead with Purpose to life.

Key Themes:
The Evolution of a Leader – From corporate sales manager to leadership coach and author.
Turning a Doctoral Thesis into a Business Fable – The challenge of shifting from academic writing to storytelling.
Lessons from the Field – How coaching his daughter's softball team influenced Kevin's leadership philosophy.
The Biggest Leadership Gap – Why most leaders fail to have career vision conversations with their employees.
The Business of Writing a Book – Traditional publishing vs. self-publishing and the realities of book marketing.
Goal Setting at Home – How Kevin applies leadership principles to parenting.

Buy Lead with Purpose: A Story About Leading In Your Personal and Professional Life
Amazon: https://amzn.to/437kQVh
Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9798990933804

Connect with Dr. McGarry
Website: https://mcgarryleadership.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgarry-leadership/about/

Connect with Mike
Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory
Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/

If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

#Leadership #LeadWithPurpose #KevinMcGarry #BusinessFable #LeadershipDevelopment #AuthorLife #Coaching #SuccessMindset

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
40 min
March 11, 2025Unmasking Secrets: Robert Steven Goldstein on Fiction, Power, and Identity
"Believe in that inner voice. Trust it, no matter what anyone else says. Just keep pursuing what’s important to you." – Robert Steven Goldstein

Robert Steven Goldstein spent decades in the corporate world before making good on a lifelong dream—becoming a novelist. After retiring at 56, he dedicated himself to writing full-time, crafting compelling and unconventional stories. In this episode, Robert shares his journey from aspiring writer to corporate executive to published author, dives into his latest novel Golden Touch, and reflects on themes of secrecy, reinvention, and self-discovery.

Key Themes:
A Writer’s Origin Story – How Robert’s childhood shaped his love of storytelling (and his complicated relationship with criticism).
The Decision to Leave Corporate America – Why he set a goal to retire early and pursue writing full-time.
Inside Golda’s Hutch – A dark psychological novel exploring secrets, deceit, and hidden lives.
Exploring the Undercurrents of Society – From corporate culture to San Francisco’s underground BDSM scene.
A Personal Connection to His Fiction – How Robert’s own experiences informed his novel’s themes.
Eastern Philosophy and Spirituality – How decades of practicing yoga and meditation influence his writing.
Lessons from a Writing Life – The advice Robert would give his younger self (and aspiring writers).

Buy Golda’s Hutch
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3F3hI2E

Connect with Robert
Website: https://robertstevengoldstein.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robert.goldstein.790
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertstevengoldstein/

Connect with Mike
Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory
Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/

If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

#RobertStevenGoldstein #GoldenTouchNovel #FictionWriting #Reinvention #WritingLife #Storytelling #Novelists #EasternPhilosophy

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
42 min
March 04, 2025Rewriting Her Story: Barbara Boyle’s Reinvention from Ad Exec to Memoirist
"Only you can tell your story, and only you can tell it in the way you tell it. And that's critical." – Barbara Boyle

For years, Barbara Boyle crafted stories for some of the biggest brands in advertising. But after decades in the corporate world, she found herself on an unexpected journey—one that led her to a 300-year-old farmhouse in Italy, a memoir, and a new way of seeing the world. In this episode, Barbara joins us to discuss her book Pinch Me, the magic of reinvention, the power of storytelling, and what it’s like to start over in a place that feels like a dream.

Key Themes:
Barbara’s Journey to Writing – From childhood storyteller to ad agency creative director to memoirist.
The Magic of Italy – How a honeymoon turned into a life-changing move to a 300-year-old farmhouse.
Leaving Advertising Behind – Reflections on her career in marketing and how the industry has changed.
The Art of Storytelling – Why everyone has a story worth telling and why your voice matters.
Rebuilding a Home, Rebuilding a Life – The emotional and symbolic process of restoring a historic property.
Writing ‘Pinch Me’ – The journey from blog posts to a full-length memoir.
What’s Next? – Barbara teases a potential next book inspired by the previous owner of her Italian home.

Buy Pinch Me: Waking Up in a 300-Year-Old Italian Farmhouse
Amazon: https://amzn.to/4gUbGP6
Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781647428327

Connect with Barbara
Website: https://www.barbaraboyleauthor.com/
Substack: https://boyleb.substack.com/

Connect with Mike
Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory
Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/

If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
#BarbaraBoyle #PinchMeMemoir #Storytelling #LifeInItaly #CreativeJourney #WritingLife #Memoir #NewBeginnings

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
37 min
February 25, 2025Teaching, Writing, and Breaking Through: Jenn Bouchard’s Delicious Path to Publishing
“I realized that storytelling was something I had to do—not just something I wanted to do.” – Jenn Bouchard

Award-winning author Jenn Bouchard joins the show to talk about her journey from being a dedicated high school teacher to a published, award winning novelist. She shares insights into the challenges of transitioning careers, the perseverance required in publishing, and the joy of crafting compelling, emotionally rich stories. Jenn discusses her inspirations, the writing process, and how her background in education has influenced her storytelling. This episode is an inspiring listen for anyone thinking about taking a creative leap!

Key Themes:
Jenn’s transition from teaching to writing fiction
The persistence needed to get published
How real-life experiences shape fictional stories
The role of New England settings in her work
Balancing creativity with everyday responsibilities
Advice for aspiring authors

Buy Considering Us
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3X0eSSp
Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781685135522

Connect with Jenn
Website: https://jennbouchard.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennbouchardBOS
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennbouchardbos
X: https://x.com/JennBouchardBOS

Connect with Mike
Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory
Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/

If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

#WritingJourney #AuthorInterview #JennBouchard #FictionWriting #WomenWriters #CreativeLife #Publishing #Storytelling #NewEnglandBooks #romance #foodie

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
32 min
February 18, 2025From Magazines to Manuscripts: Jonathan Small’s Writing Journey
"Don't be afraid to fail and just do what you want to do. The fear of failure holds so many people back." – Jonathan Small

Award-winning author, journalist, and podcast host Jonathan Small joins the show to share his fascinating journey through the ever-evolving world of writing. From a serendipitous first interview with George Carlin to navigating the golden era of magazines, Jonathan has seen it all. He talks about the lessons he's learned from interviewing hundreds of writers, the power of origin stories, and how fear and luck play pivotal roles in a writer’s success. Whether you're an aspiring author or just love a great behind-the-scenes look at the creative process, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and motivation.

Key Themes:
The unexpected break that launched Jonathan’s writing career
The golden era of magazines and its cultural impact
Overcoming fear and imposter syndrome as a writer
The role of luck in a successful writing career
The inspiration behind his new book Right About Now
Common traits of successful authors
The influence of pop culture on storytelling

Buy Write About Now
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3EmfBqo
Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781964377193

Connect with Jonathan
Website: https://writeaboutnowmedia.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/writeaboutnowpod/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCExqs0i3A8CPCBJyv7NBDjg
Substack: Small Talk

Connect with Mike
Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory
Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/

If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

#WritingLife #AuthorInterview #JonathanSmall #CreativeProcess #Publishing #PodcastsForWriters #Storytelling #RightAboutNow #BookLovers

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
48 min
February 11, 2025The Practical Path to Peace: Janet Ettele’s Journey Through Buddhism and Art
"When we seek to benefit others, we’re at our best and happiest."— Janet Ettele

Meet Janet Ettele, author of How Joyous Effort Works. In this episode, Janet shares how her deep appreciation for music evolved into a passion for Buddhist philosophy, leading her to create a series of books that blend timeless teachings with modern practicality. With a focus on compassion, mindfulness, and balance, Janet’s story is an inspiring example of living authentically and embracing life’s impermanence.

Key Takeaways:
Creative Foundations: Janet’s musical beginnings, including studying composition at Berklee, set the stage for her writing.
A Serendipitous Path: A chance connection with a student led her to discover Buddhist teachings and begin writing.
Blending Arts and Philosophy: Janet likens writing to music composition, both requiring rhythm, dynamics, and resolution.
Living the Teachings: Her books distill Buddhist principles into practical lessons for daily life.
The Power of Impermanence: Janet emphasizes embracing change as a universal truth.
Serving Others: True joy arises when focusing on others' well-being over self-absorption.
Wisdom in Practice: Meditation, reflection, and action are essential steps to integrating mindfulness into life.

Buy How Joyous Effort Works
Amazon: https://amzn.to/40pD1DQ
Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781939839060

Connect with Janet
Website: https://janetettele.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janetettele/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063516554816
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@janetettele8818

Connect with Mike
Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory
Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/

If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

#JanetEttele #JoyousEffort #MindfulnessMatters #BuddhistWisdom #CompassionInAction #CreativeLiving #UncorkingAStory

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
59 min
February 04, 2025Twice the Story: Julie McGue on Family, Identity, and the Journey of Belonging
Life gives us a lot of lessons that we don’t know how we’re going to use, and then all of a sudden, we’re called to the challenge and we pick it up. – Julie McGue

In this heartfelt episode, author Julie McGue returns to discuss her latest memoir, Twice the Family, a prequel to her award-winning Twice a Daughter. Julie reflects on the complexities of growing up as an identical twin, a domestic adoptee, and a member of a blended family. From sibling bonds to family tragedies, she explores how love, resilience, and identity shape our lives. Whether you’re an adoptee, a twin, or simply navigating life’s unexpected turns, Julie’s story offers valuable lessons about forgiveness, belonging, and embracing the human experience.

Key Takeaways:
The Bond of Twins: Julie shares how her twin sister has been a constant anchor in her life, despite their individual journeys.
Exploring Family Dynamics: Insights into growing up in a blended family of biological and adopted siblings.
Navigating Loss: Reflections on coping with the loss of a younger sibling and how it shaped her family’s resilience.
Adoption Advocacy: The importance of open records and the challenges faced by adoptees from the closed adoption era.
Cultural Heritage and Identity: Julie’s journey to reconnect with her Native American roots and what it means to belong.
Empathy Through Reflection: How revisiting family stories brought Julie a deeper understanding of her parents’ struggles and strengths.
Lessons in Love and Forgiveness: The universal themes of connection and healing that resonate beyond adoption.

Buy Twice the Family
Amazon:https://amzn.to/49mxi4P
Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781647427863

Connect with Julie
Website: https://juliemcgueauthor.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juliemcguewrites/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julieryanmcgue/
X: https://x.com/juliermcgue

Connect with Mike
Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory
Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/

If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

#AdoptionStories #TwinsBond #MemoirWriting #FamilyDynamics #IdentityAndBelonging #CopingWithLoss #AdoptionAdvocacy #HealingThroughWriting #Resilience

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
33 min

About Uncorking a Story

From the publisher's feed

Listen in to Uncorking a Story, where we pop the cork on hidden narratives and delve deep into the brilliant minds of your favorite authors. Get ready to unlock the magic behind your favorite books,…

Share Uncorking a Story

Sign up to save your podcasts

Uncorking a Story

Uncorking a Story episodes

About Uncorking a Story