Uncorking a Story

Uncorking a Story

By Michael CarlonComedySociety & CultureArtsBooks
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Uncorking a Story episodes

  • Haunted by Stories: Laura Buchwald on Writing, Ghosts, and Grief

    “Writing is a solitary endeavor, but creating community can transform the experience—it reminds us we're not alone in our stories.” — Laura Buchwald


    In this episode of Uncorking a Story, Mike pops the cork on Laura Buchwald, a New York City-based author, editor, and podcast co-host. Laura discusses her debut novel The Coat Check Girl, a ghostly yet heartwarming tale of loss, found family, and self-discovery set in 1999 New York and New Orleans. She opens up about her lifelong connection to writing, her experiences with grief and spiritual awareness, and her commitment to building community among writers. This episode is a must-listen for anyone drawn to the intersection of creativity and the human experience.


    Key Themes:


    1. On Writing and Inspiration: Laura shares how The Coat Check Girl was inspired by the vibrant restaurant culture of New York and her own uncanny sensitivity to haunted spaces.
    2. The Role of Grief: Laura discusses how grief shaped her protagonist’s journey and how it deepened her empathy and understanding of others.
    3. The Path to Publishing: Hear Laura’s honest account of querying agents, facing rejections, and finding the right home for her novel in the competitive world of publishing.
    4. Writing as a Discipline: Laura reflects on the shift from writing for pleasure to writing on a deadline and the lessons learned in meeting those demands.
    5. The Power of Writing Communities: Learn why attending writing conferences and connecting with other authors has been vital to Laura’s growth as a writer.
    6. The Magic of Stories: Laura describes how characters sometimes “haunt” her, pushing her to bring their stories to life—a sentiment any storyteller can relate to.
    7. Advice for Aspiring Writers: Laura offers encouragement for those on their own writing journeys: “Start now, believe in your voice, and let your story evolve.”


      Buy The Coat Check Girl

      Amazon: https://amzn.to/4fqrzgw

      Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781633739437


      Connect with Laura

      Website: https://laurabuchwald.com/

      Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurabuchwaldauthor/

      Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095294176611


      Connect with Mike

      Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/

      Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@uncorkingastory

      Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/

      Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory


      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 #GhostStories #AuthorInterview #CreativeProcess #GriefAndEmpathy #WritingCommunity #TheCoatCheckGirl #UncorkingAStory #PodcastLife #StorytellingAdventure




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

      52 min
    8. From Trauma to Transformation: Dr. Lisa Cooney on Healing, Writing, and the Soul’s Journey

      "I thought I was saving others, but it was my own soul that needed saving." — Dr. Lisa Cooney


      In this episode of Uncorking a Story, host Mike Carlon sits down with Dr. Lisa Cooney, a therapist, healer, and author who has dedicated her life to helping people overcome trauma and unlock their full potential. They dive into Dr. Cooney’s transformative journey, from her own struggles with trauma and near-death experiences to the soul-healing techniques she has crafted. Lisa shares how her unique approach, which blends Western psychology with spiritual practices, empowers people to break free from limiting beliefs and discover their true selves. Whether you're a writer seeking to tap into your deepest experiences or a reader drawn to stories of resilience, this conversation will inspire you to embrace life’s challenges as part of a greater journey toward self-discovery.


      Key Takeaways


      1. Trauma and hardships often shape our life's purpose, giving us the tools to help others.
      2. Blending Western psychology with Eastern spiritual practices can open new pathways to healing.
      3. Dr. Cooney's "ROAR" technique (Radically, Orgasmically, Alive Reality) is a powerful tool for inner child work.
      4. Soul retrieval can reconnect lost parts of ourselves, healing trauma stored in the body.
      5. Transformation often requires facing and re-writing limiting beliefs instilled by family or society.
      6. A soul-centered approach to life allows for greater resilience, joy, and a fulfilling sense of purpose.


        7. Buy The Body of Change: Using Your Body To Heal, Love, and Empower Yourself

        Amazon: https://amzn.to/4eSBvPs

        Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781666409505

         


        Connect with Dr. Cooney

        Website: https://www.drlisacooney.com/

        Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlisacooney/

        Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drlisacooney

        Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrLisaCooney

        YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS4dP_x2Y8XXMiNuTTyxk8g

        TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drlisacooney



        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 #TraumaHealing #LisaCooney #SpiritualHealing #SoulRetrieval #InnerChildWork #WritersJourney #HealingJourney #orgasmic


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

        58 min
      7. Epic Comebacks, with Cindy Finch

        "Grief is actually a guru that guides us, taking us through the dark night of the soul and transforming us—even when it feels like it’s breaking us down."


        Listen in as Cindy Finch, a seasoned therapist, cancer survivor, and author of the powerful new workbook Epic Comeback dives deep into the gritty journey of healing from life's toughest challenges, including cancer, grief, divorce, and personal betrayal. She opens up about the importance of relationships, the concept of post-traumatic growth, and the critical difference between empathy and sympathy. Join us as we explore how hardship reshapes us and how Cindy's workbook is designed to guide readers through their own epic comebacks with empathy, resilience, and a healthy dose of real talk.


        Key Themes:


        1. Transformative Power of Grief – Grief as a teacher that reshapes us into more empathetic beings.
        2. Building Resilience – Resilience as a ‘team sport’ and the role of community in healing.
        3. Post-Traumatic Growth – The science of moving forward after trauma and finding new purpose.
        4. Navigating Relationships – Forgiveness, rebuilding trust, and how trauma impacts close connections.
        5. The Challenge of Reinvention – Tools and exercises from Epic Comeback for those recovering from major life events.
        6. Reclaiming Self-Identity – Journaling, music playlists, and finding personal ‘anchors’ in times of struggle.
        7. Breaking Free from People-Pleasing – The importance of setting boundaries and discovering one's own priorities during recovery.


          Buy Epic Comeback: Reinventing Yourself After Diagnosis, Divorce, or Devastation

          Cindy’s Website: https://www.cindyfinch.com/books

          Amazon: https://amzn.to/48aYNgS


          Connect with Cindy

          Website: https://www.cindyfinch.com/


          Connect with Mike

          Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/

          Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@uncorkingastory

          Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/

          Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory


          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.



          #EpicComeback #GriefHealing #ResilienceMatters #CindyFinch #TransformativePower #TherapeuticWriting #ReinventYourself #PostTraumaticGrowth


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

          1 hr 11 min
        8. Leaving Law for Literature, with Mary Keliikoa

          "I think we’re always trying to heal ourselves, whether it’s through fiction or not."


          In this episode of Uncorking a Story, Mike Carlon chats with Mary Keliikoa, an award-nominated author whose journey to becoming a published crime novelist took over two decades. From co-writing her first book during lunch breaks as a legal secretary to debuting at the age of 55, Mary shares the personal challenges and inspirations that have shaped her career. Dive into her experiences with balancing creativity and practicality, and learn how she brings both her legal background and personal life into her page-turning thrillers.


          Key Themes


          1. The Long Journey to Debut: Mary shares how she started writing at 27, but life events, like opening a business with her husband, paused her literary dreams until she returned to writing in her 50s.
          2. Personal Experiences Shaping Fiction: The deep emotional ties of family and loss heavily influence Mary’s latest book, Don't Ask, Don't Follow, which explores how far we’ll go to protect loved ones.
          3. Resilience in Pursuing Dreams: Mary talks about the determination to become a published author and how setting writing aside for a while gave her more freedom to succeed on her own terms.
          4. Writing from Life’s Truths: Even though her books are fiction, Mary reveals how much of herself—especially her experiences with her brother and the legal world—makes its way into her characters and stories.
          5. Evolving Writing Process: From being a "pantser" to experimenting with plotting her latest novel, Mary’s process has evolved as she continues to learn and grow as a writer.



            Buy Don’t Ask, Don’t Follow

            Amazon: https://amzn.to/3NzJViQ

            Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781608096091

             



            Connect with Mary

            Website: https://marykeliikoa.com/

            Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.keliikoa.author/

            Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mary.Keliikoa.Author/

            Twitter: https://twitter.com/mary_keliikoa




            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.

            #MaryKeliikoa, #CrimeNovels, #DebutAuthor, #StrongFemaleLeads, #FamilySecrets, #FictionWithHeart, #WritingCommunity, #UncorkingAStory, #PodcastInterview




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

            26 min
          6. Mind Over Menu, with Jared Gleaton

            "Food had controlled me. The grocery store controlled me, restaurants controlled me—and I wanted to break free of that."


            In this mouth watering episode, Mike Carlon uncorks the story of Jared Gleaton, a nationally certified school psychologist and captivating food critic. Jared takes us on a fascinating journey from his early social media food reviews to his dramatic mental and physical transformation. His book, A Feast for the Senses: The Psychological Art of Eating Well, explores the intersection of psychology and food. Through deep self-reflection, Jared unpacks the emotional triggers behind overeating and how he regained control of his life by redefining his relationship with food. Tune in to hear Jared’s powerful story of weight loss, self-discovery, and the importance of savoring both food and life.

            Key Themes


            1. The Power of Detailed Food Reviews: Jared discusses how his frustration with shallow restaurant reviews led him to create vivid, immersive descriptions that engage all the senses. His goal? To transport the reader right into the dining experience, emphasizing that food is more than just taste—it's an emotional and psychological journey.
            2. Food Addiction and Emotional Eating: Jared reflects on his battle with overeating, which stemmed from childhood influences and emotional triggers. He shares the struggle of realizing how deeply intertwined his emotions were with his eating habits, particularly after the loss of his father.
            3. Losing 176 Pounds Through Moderation and Mindfulness: Jared debunks the myth of drastic diets and quick fixes, explaining that sustainable weight loss is about moderation, portion control, and savoring the eating experience. He emphasizes that mindful eating, rather than deprivation, was key to his incredible transformation.
            4. Psychology's Role in Eating Habits: Food is more than fuel—it’s a psychological experience. Jared explains how marketing, cultural norms, and emotional states can manipulate our food choices. By addressing the underlying psychological triggers, he was able to change his relationship with food and break free from destructive patterns.
            5. The Flawed Promise of Weight Loss Drugs: Jared warns against relying solely on drugs like Ozempic for weight loss, noting that while they might suppress appetite, they don’t tackle the deeper psychological issues that lead to overeating. He stresses that without behavioral change, the weight is likely to return once the medication stops.
            6. A Critique of Modern Food Culture: From fast food to gourmet, Jared critiques how modern culture encourages overindulgence. He sheds light on the subtle ways we’re manipulated by food marketing and how shifting our focus to fresh, high-quality ingredients can foster a healthier lifestyle.


              Buy A Feast for the Senses : The Psychological Art of Eating Well

              Amazon: https://amzn.to/487yV5H


              Connect with Jared

              Website: https://jaredgleatoneats.com/

              Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaredgleatoneats/

              Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaredgleatoneats/

              YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jaredgleaton

              TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jaredgleatoneats


              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.

              #PsychologyOfFood, #MindfulEating, #WeightLossJourney, #FoodReviews, #EmotionalEating, #HealthyLifestyle, #JaredGleaton, #Foodie, #WeightLossTransformation, #ModerationIsKey, #FoodAddiction, #SavorTheMoment, #OzempicCritique



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

              44 min
            7. Turning Pain into Prose: Writing, Opioids, and Finding Purpose, with Laura Essay

              "I had no idea how big this was...over 80 percent of people you see in the alley were once you and me—soccer moms, CEOs—pulled into addiction by something that was supposed to help."

              In this episode of Uncorking a Story, host Mike Carlon sits down with debut novelist Laura Essay, author of Side Effects Are Minimal. Laura shares her journey from being a lawyer to becoming an author, revealing how personal experiences and meticulous research inspired her to tackle the opioid crisis from a fresh perspective. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring writers, tackling the creative process and the personal dedication needed to turn research into a compelling narrative. Laura’s story reminds us that even in dark times, writing can be a light that helps us better understand ourselves and the world around us.

              Key Themes


              1. Writing as a Lifelong Passion. Laura’s love for writing began as a child, sneaking away to write poems. Even as she pursued a career in law, writing remained her passion. Her story emphasizes the importance of nurturing creativity, even when life’s practical demands take precedence.
              2. Transitioning from Law to Writing. Laura spent years practicing law, which honed her factual writing skills. While she enjoyed the work, fiction writing allowed her to channel that discipline into storytelling. Her legal background helped her construct narratives grounded in truth, blending facts with fiction in her novel.
              3. The Opioid Crisis and Its Personal Impact. In Side Effects Are Minimal, Laura explores the opioid crisis, not from the addict's perspective, but from the people left behind. Her research uncovered a reality much closer to home than most people realize—addiction can strike anyone, making it a universal issue.
              4. The Creative Process and Overcoming Challenges. Laura shares how she balanced research and storytelling, often writing by hand to avoid distractions. Her advice for aspiring writers is to disconnect from technology and let ideas flow naturally. Her belief that "showing up" allows the story to come to you is an empowering message for any writer.
              5. Hybrid Publishing as a Path to Success. After traditional querying brought limited results, Laura found success in hybrid publishing with She Writes Press. She highlights the benefits of networking at writers' conferences and embracing new models like hybrid publishing, which provide more creative control and better royalties than traditional routes.
              6. On Facing Fears and Finding Purpose Later in Life. Laura reflects on her own journey of overcoming fear and finding her writing voice after her children left home. She encourages others to trust the timing of their creativity and to know that it’s never too late to pursue your passion.



                Buy Side Effects are Minimal

                Amazon: https://amzn.to/3U89s6v

                Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781647427047



                Connect with Laura

                Website: https://lauraessay.com/

                Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laura.essay.3

                Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraessay11/



                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.

                #LauraEssay, #SideEffectsAreMinimal, #OpioidCrisis, #WritersLife, #DebutNovel, #HybridPublishing, #AuthorInterview, #CreativeWriting, #BookLovers, #WritingCommunity




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

                39 min
              7. Crafting Activist Fiction, with Jude Berman

                "If you feel you have something worth saying, why not take the effort and pursue it?" — Jude Berman


                In this episode, host Mike Carlon uncorks the story of Jude Berman, an award-winning author and former editor who made the leap from publishing other people's books to writing her own. Jude reflects on her journey through the changing landscape of publishing, her experience with hybrid publishing, and the deeply personal motivations behind her latest novel, The Die. Set in a futuristic Silicon Valley and weaving in ancient Eastern traditions, Jude’s work explores activism, storytelling, and the challenges of navigating today’s polarized world.


                Key Themes


                1. Jude's Transition from Editor to Author. After years of working on other people's books, Jude realized she had her own stories to tell. Her background as an editor gave her valuable insight into the publishing world, but it took time for her to embrace her identity as an author and commit to getting her work out into the world.
                2. Hybrid Publishing as the Future of the Industry. Jude discusses why hybrid publishing—an alternative model that blends traditional publishing with self-publishing—is gaining traction, especially for authors who don't fit the mold of what major publishers typically seek. For her, it offered the best of both worlds, allowing creative control without the overwhelming demands of self-publishing.
                3. Blending Ancient Stories with Future Tech in Fiction. The Die merges timeless stories from the Mahabharata with a futuristic Silicon Valley backdrop, creating a unique narrative that connects past wisdom with future dilemmas. Jude reveals how she used these ancient texts to explore contemporary issues in a way that resonates with modern readers.
                4. Activism Through Storytelling. Jude views her writing as a form of activism, aiming to create fiction that not only entertains but also sparks meaningful dialogue about current societal challenges. She believes that stories can be a powerful tool for change, helping readers reflect on issues like injustice and power dynamics.
                5. The Realities of Modern Publishing and Author Ageism. In a youth-obsessed industry, Jude faced challenges in getting her work published due to the emphasis on younger, social media-savvy authors. She candidly discusses the barriers older writers face, and how hybrid publishing offered a solution when traditional routes closed.
                6. Writing as a Response to Personal and Societal Challenges. Jude emphasizes the therapeutic and transformative power of writing, particularly when it responds to both personal and larger societal events. She encourages aspiring authors to write for themselves first, stressing that not every piece needs to be published, but writing can still have immense value.



                  Buy The Die

                  Amazon: https://amzn.to/4eRPhBI

                  Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781684632305



                  Connect with Jude

                  Website: https://judeberman.com/

                  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/judebermanauthor

                  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jude.berman/



                  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.


                  #Storytelling, #HybridPublishing, #ActivistFiction, #WritingJourney, #SiliconValleyFiction, #CulturalDiversity, #CreativeProcess, #AwardWinningAuthor


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

                  36 min
                7. Unlocking Emotional Intelligence, with Patrick Kilcarr, Ph.D.

                  "I think emotional intelligence invites us to slow things down and really take pause in relation to who we are in the world." – Patrick Kilcarr

                  In this episode of Uncorking a Story, host Mike Carlon sits down with Patrick Kilcarr, PhD,  the Director of Georgetown University’s Center for Personal Development and an expert in emotional intelligence (EI). Patrick discusses his career journey, the transformative power of emotional intelligence, and his latest book, Leading an Emotionally Intelligent Life. From navigating personal relationships to making courageous decisions, Patrick’s insights are sure to inspire you to look deeper into the emotional competencies that shape your life. Tune in as they explore the essential tools for living a more balanced, emotionally aware life.



                  Key Themes


                  1. Emotional Intelligence Defined. Understanding the power of self-awareness, emotional regulation, and social competencies.
                  2. The Impact of EI in Leadership. Why emotional intelligence is more important than IQ when it comes to long-term success.
                  3. Using Emotional Intelligence Clinically. How Patrick applied the EQI tool in a therapeutic setting to help individuals gain deeper insights into their emotions.
                  4. Recognizing and Breaking Negative Patterns. The psychology behind why people repeat harmful relationship patterns and how emotional intelligence can help break the cycle.
                  5. Finding Balance in Life Through EI. The importance of self-regard and emotional expression in building healthier, more fulfilling relationships.
                  6. Reclaiming Creativity. A reflection on how societal pressures can stifle creative genius, and how to reignite it.


                    Buy Leading an Emotionally Intelligent Life: Expanding Your EI to Make Courageous Decisions and Transform Your Life 

                    Amazon: https://amzn.to/4ex6HTO


                    Connect with Patrick

                    Website: http://theeilife.com/

                    Email: [email protected]


                    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.


                    #EmotionalIntelligence #Leadership #SelfAwareness #PersonalDevelopment #PatrickKilcarr #PodcastInterview #MentalHealth #Storytelling #UncorkingAStory




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

                    45 min
                  7. Letting it Cook, with Fiona Barton

                    “Writing is not just putting your fingers on the keys. Writing is thinking, imagining, and playing games in your head.” — Fiona Barton

                    In this episode of Uncorking a Story, host Mike Carlon sits down with New York Times bestselling author Fiona Barton, known for her psychological thrillers The Widow, The Child, The Suspect, and Local Gone Missing. Fiona opens up about her journey from seasoned journalist to novelist, offering insight into her writing process, character development, and the power of letting ideas “cook” in your mind before putting pen to paper.



                    Key Themes


                    1. Transitioning from journalism to fiction: Fiona reflects on her 35-year journalism career and how it influenced her shift to writing novels.
                    2. Character-driven storytelling: She shares her approach to developing complex characters based on real-life experiences.
                    3. Writing under pressure: Lessons learned from rushing through her second book and the importance of taking time to think.
                    4. The power of a good deadline: How entering a writing competition pushed her to complete her first novel.
                    5. Multiple narrators in thrillers: Fiona discusses the challenge and excitement of writing from multiple perspectives.
                    6. Exploring loneliness and grief: A sneak peek into her latest novel, Talking to Strangers, and the deep emotional themes contained within.
                    7. Creative advice for aspiring authors: Fiona’s advice on embracing change, taking risks, and not being afraid to let stories develop over time.


                      Buy Talking to Strangers

                      Amazon: https://amzn.to/4d6h5Rt

                      Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781984803078


                      Connect with Fiona

                      Website: https://www.fionabartonauthor.com/

                      Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fionabartonauthor

                      Twitter: https://x.com/figbarton


                      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.

                      #FionaBarton #PsychologicalThriller #UncorkingAStory #WritingProcess #CharacterDevelopment #Storytelling #BestsellingAuthor #CreativeJourney




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

                      29 min
                    8. Uncorking Courage, with Kristina Kuzmic

                      “My desire is to be for others what I needed when I was at my lowest.” – Kristina Kuzmic


                      In this powerful episode of Uncorking a Story, Mike Carlon sits down with renowned author, comedian, and mental health advocate Kristina Kuzmic. Kristina shares her journey from a struggling single mother on food stamps to becoming a viral sensation and best-selling author. They dive into the vulnerability it takes to share personal struggles, how humor became her coping mechanism, and the challenges of parenting a child with mental health issues. Kristina’s raw honesty and infectious optimism will leave listeners inspired to live authentically and help others feel less alone.


                      Key Themes


                      1. Finding Humor in Hardship: Kristina shares how humor has been a lifeline in her darkest moments and how she “accidentally” became a comedian through her viral cooking videos.
                      2. The Power of Vulnerability: Discussing her first book, Kristina opens up about the challenges of writing about her personal struggles and how being vulnerable helped her connect with her audience.
                      3. Parenting Through Mental Health Struggles: Kristina speaks candidly about her son’s mental health journey and how it taught her to face her own unhealed trauma.
                      4. The Importance of Community Support: From editors to close friends, Kristina emphasizes how important it is to have a support system in both writing and life.
                      5. Overcoming Fear of Judgment: Kristina reflects on the abuse we inflict upon ourselves by worrying about what others think, encouraging listeners to embrace their authentic selves.
                      6. The Role of Courage in Personal Growth: She shares how courage has been a vital component in her growth as a parent, writer, and individual.


                        Buy I Can Fix This: And Other Lies I Told Myself While Parenting My Struggling Child

                        Amazon: https://amzn.to/47yzPbe

                        Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9780593653333


                        Connect with Kristina

                        Website: https://kristinakuzmic.com/

                        Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristinakuzmic/

                        TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iamkristinakuzmic?lang=en


                        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.


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                        44 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,…