Uncorking a Story

Uncorking a Story

By Michael CarlonComedySociety & CultureArtsBooks
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Uncorking a Story episodes

  • Creating New Purpose, with Jonathan Bogner

    "Resilience isn't just bouncing back—it's finding new purpose after everything changes." — Jonathan Bogner


    In this inspiring episode of Uncorking a Story, host Mike Carlon sits down with Jonathan Bogner, a seasoned film and reality TV producer who has faced unimaginable challenges. From experiencing heart failure, two strokes, and aphasia, to receiving a life-saving heart transplant, Jonathan’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless optimism. Join us as we dive deep into his incredible journey, the lessons he’s learned, and the importance of finding purpose in the face of adversity.



    Key Themes


    1. A Life-Altering Health Journey: Jonathan recounts the series of major health crises that changed his life forever, including heart failure and a heart transplant. His experience with aphasia and the emotional impact of losing his ability to speak for a time is a central part of his story.
    2. The Power of Resilience: Jonathan shares his three key principles—rigorous optimism, rugged flexibility, and resilience—which guided him through his recovery and inspired his new purpose.
    3. Reinvention Through Purpose: After his transplant, Jonathan found a new calling in storytelling, focusing on unsung heroes—caregivers. His passion for sharing personal stories highlights the critical role caregivers play in the healthcare journey.
    4. From Behind the Camera to the Spotlight: As a longtime producer, Jonathan's transition from supporting other people's stories to becoming the subject of his own remarkable narrative was unexpected but powerful.
    5. Heart Memories and a Woman's Heart: Jonathan reflects on receiving a woman’s heart and the emotional and even physical changes he noticed, including newfound cravings for certain foods, touching on the mystical idea of heart memories.
    6. Celebrating Caregivers: Jonathan emphasizes the often-overlooked struggles of caregivers, sharing his plans for a TV show that highlights their stories with moments of both sincerity and levity.


      Connect with Jonathan

      Website: https://bognerentertainmentinc.com/home

      Website: https://personalstories.net/

      LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanbogner1/


      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.

      #Resilience #HeartTransplant #Caregivers #PersonalStories #RigorousOptimism #AphasiaRecovery #Storytelling



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      54 min
    7. Writing Beyond Boundaries: Embracing Criticism, Late Blooms, and Creative Courage with Linda Moore2024

      "Perseverance is probably the most important skill or quality to have. Stick with it, and eventually you'll cross some kind of finish line." – Linda Moore


      In this episode, Linda Moore, a late-blooming fiction writer and art historian, shares her unique journey from political science and journalism to owning an art gallery and finally embracing a career as a novelist. Through candid discussions on facing criticism, switching career paths, and her perseverance in getting her first novel published in her 70s, Linda offers invaluable insights for writers at all stages. Her wisdom and experiences provide a rich source of inspiration for those aspiring to tell their own stories.



      Key Themes


      1. Perseverance in Writing: Linda emphasizes the importance of sticking with your craft, no matter how many setbacks or rejections you face.
      2. Embracing Criticism: She shares her transformative experiences with early criticism and how it helped shape her into a better writer.
      3. Late Start in Fiction: Linda’s journey into novel writing didn’t begin until later in life, proving it's never too late to start a new chapter.
      4. Art as Storytelling: Drawing from her background in art history, Linda discusses the power of storytelling through different mediums, including art.
      5. Publishing Pathways: Linda explores her decision to pursue hybrid publishing and how she navigated the challenges of getting her books into the world.
      6. Self-Promotion in Publishing: She speaks to the necessity of self-promotion in today’s publishing landscape, especially for independent authors.


        Buy Five Days in Bogota

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

        Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9798874780937



        Connect with Linda

        Website: https://lindamooreauthor.com/

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

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



        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 #Perseverance #LateBloomingAuthor #Storytelling #ArtAndWriting #PublishingTips #AspiringWriters #CreativeProcess #FictionWriting #CriticismAndGrowth



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        47 min
      7. From Myths to Medicine: Dr. Benjamin Caplan on Cannabis

        “There's so much literature in cannabis... I'm kind of acting a little bit like a translator for the general public and for the medical community." — Dr. Benjamin Caplan


        In this episode of "Uncorking a Story," host Mike Carlon sits down with Dr. Benjamin Caplan, a renowned family physician and expert in medical cannabis. Over the past 17 years, Dr. Caplan has overseen the care of more than 250,000 patients and mentored hundreds of physicians. He shares his unconventional journey into the world of medical cannabis, dispels common myths, and highlights the therapeutic potential of this versatile plant. Whether you're skeptical or curious about cannabis, this conversation promises to offer valuable insights and a fresh perspective on its use in modern medicine.


        Key Themes

        1. Dispelling Cannabis Myths: Dr. Caplan addresses the prevalent misinformation about cannabis and provides evidence-based insights to counteract these misconceptions.
        2. Therapeutic Benefits: The discussion covers the various medical conditions, such as anxiety, pain, and sleeplessness, that cannabis can effectively treat.
        3. Patient Empowerment: Emphasizing the importance of patients having control over their treatment, Dr. Caplan highlights how cannabis offers a unique sense of agency.
        4. Scientific Exploration: The conversation delves into the scientific mechanisms behind cannabis, including its role in angiogenesis and the endocannabinoid system.
        5. Cannabis vs. Traditional Medicine: Dr. Caplan compares the effects of cannabis with traditional pharmaceuticals, particularly in the context of opioid reduction.
        6. Recreational vs. Medicinal Use: The blurred lines between recreational and medicinal use of cannabis and its overall therapeutic impact.
        7. Future of Cannabis Research: Dr. Caplan shares his vision for the future of cannabis research and its potential to revolutionize medicine.


          Buy The Doctor-Approved Cannabis Handbook: Reverse Disease, Treat Pain, and Enhance Your Wellness with Medical Marijuana and CBD

          Amazon: https://amzn.to/3A2aqtL

          Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781637742679



          Connect with Dr. Caplan

          https://www.CEDclinic.com

          https://www.BenjaminCaplan.com

          https://www.CaplanCannabis.com

          Podcast: https://www.GreenTableTalkPodcast.com

          Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/drcaplan

          Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/drbenjamincaplan

          YouTube: https://www.YouTube.com/c/CEDclinic

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




          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 #MedicalCannabis #CannabisResearch #DrBenjaminCaplan #CannabisBenefits #PatientEmpowerment #ModernMedicine #CannabisVsPharma #EndocannabinoidSystem #TherapeuticCannabis




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          43 min
        8. Finding Freedom Through Love, Connection, and Writing

          "I felt really alienated before, but when I started walking on the streets and all these people started sharing their stories, I slowly started to heal." — Varuni Sinha


          In this compelling episode of "Uncorking a Story," host Mike Carlon interviews Varuni Sinha, a New York-based writer and multimedia producer, about her transformative journey from a copywriter in New Delhi to an author in America. Varuni discusses her memoir "Golden Handcuffs: An Immigrant’s Pursuit of Happiness," which chronicles her struggles with immigration, love, and finding her voice as a writer. Through candid conversations and heartfelt stories, Varuni sheds light on the challenges faced by immigrants and the healing power of both connection and storytelling.


          Key Themes:

          1. Trial by Fire: How Varuni was thrown into the lion’s den in her first agency job, and how she thrived while experiencing a steep learning curve.
          2. Immigration Challenges: The difficulties faced by spouses on visas in the U.S. and the impact on their professional and personal lives.
          3. Overcoming Adversity: Varuni’s struggle with unemployment and rejection, and how she navigated through these challenges with resilience and determination.
          4. Love and Partnership: The supportive relationship with her husband, who encouraged her to continue writing and believing in herself despite setbacks.
          5. Healing Through Writing: How Varuni found solace and purpose in writing her memoir and the cathartic process of documenting her experiences.
          6. Community and Connection: Varuni's interactions with diverse individuals on the streets of New York and how these encounters enriched her perspective and inspired her writing.
          7. Personal Growth: The evolution of Varuni's identity and self-discovery through her journey of love, loss, and literary achievement.


            8. Buy Golden Handcuffs: An Immigrant's Pursuit of Happiness

            Amazon: https://amzn.to/3W6cRTg

            Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9798989028801


            Connect with Varuni

            Website: https://varuni-sinha.squarespace.com/

            Twitter: ​​https://x.com/varunisinha


            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

            LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikecarlon/


            #CancerSurvivor #BreastCancerAwareness #TripleNegativeBreastCancer #RunningTherapy #SupportSystem #Inspiration #CancerJourney #HealthAndWellness #SurvivorStories #PodcastEpisode




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            54 min
          8. Writing Through Adversity with Ann Bancroft

            "I wasn't interested in writing about my own cancer journey, but I was interested in the idea of what if my situation had been flipped." — Ann Bancroft


            In this heartfelt episode of "Uncorking a Story," host Michael Carlon sits down with Ann Bancroft, a remarkable two-time breast cancer survivor who has made her literary debut at the age of 71. Bancroft shares her journey from a career in journalism to becoming a novelist, the challenges she faced during her cancer treatments, and how she found inspiration in the small joys of life. Her debut novel, "Almost Family," explores the power of unlikely friendships and the healing nature of love. Join us as we uncork Ann's inspiring story of resilience, creativity, and finding purpose in every chapter of life.


            Key Topics:

            1. Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment: Insights into Ann's personal experience with breast cancer, the treatments she underwent, and the emotional and physical impact.
            2. Transition from Journalism to Fiction: Ann discusses her shift from a long career in journalism to writing fiction, emphasizing the challenges and creative freedom it brought.
            3. Writing as Therapy: The therapeutic and transformative power of writing, and how Ann used it to process her experiences and emotions.
            4. Finding Joy in Small Moments: How Ann's cancer journey taught her to appreciate the small, beautiful moments in life.
            5. Creating "Almost Family": The inspiration behind her debut novel and the significance of its themes, such as found family and facing terminal illness with humor and honesty.
            6. Overcoming Publishing Challenges: Ann's path to getting her novel published, including the setbacks and the eventual success with a hybrid publisher.
            7. Encouraging Aspiring Writers: Advice and motivation for aspiring writers, especially those who might think it’s too late to start their literary journey.

              9. Buy Almost Family

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

              Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781647426668


              Connect with Ann

              Website: https://annbancroftauthor.com/

              Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552070758051

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



              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

              LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikecarlon/


              

              #UncorkingAStory #AnnBancroft #CancerSurvivor #AuthorJourney #AlmostFamily #WritingTherapy #Inspiration #Resilience #BookLovers #LiteraryDebut



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

              41 min
            9. Healing through Story, with Holly LaBarbera

              "Writing is like therapy; it reveals the soul and heals the heart." — Holly LaBarbera

              In this episode of "Uncorking a Story," Holly LaBarbera, an accomplished author and psychotherapist, takes us through her fascinating journey from childhood letter writing with her grandmother to becoming a published novelist. She shares how her career as a therapist intertwines with her love of storytelling, revealing deep insights into the human experience. Whether you're an aspiring writer or someone who appreciates the transformative power of words, Holly's story will inspire and enlighten.



              Key Topics


              1. The Power of Letters: Holly began her writing journey through heartfelt letters exchanged with her grandmother, laying the foundation for her passion for storytelling.
              2. Therapeutic Writing: As a psychotherapist, Holly discusses how writing can be a powerful tool for therapy, helping individuals process grief and trauma through journaling and letter-writing exercises.
              3. Overcoming Rejection: Holly candidly shares her experiences with numerous rejections from agents and traditional publishers and how she turned to self-publishing to bring her stories to life.
              4. Balancing Dark and Light: In her book "All I Know," Holly explores heavy themes such as trauma and mental health with a balance of hope, humor, and resilience, aiming to provide an honest yet uplifting narrative.
              5. Inspiration and Resilience: Holly emphasizes the importance of perseverance in the face of setbacks, both in her writing career and in personal growth, encouraging listeners to pursue their passions despite challenges.
              6. Authentic Storytelling: Holly's approach to storytelling is deeply personal and authentic, drawing from her own life experiences and her work as a therapist to create relatable and meaningful characters.
              7. Community and Feedback: Holly highlights the value of a supportive writing community and constructive feedback, sharing how her connections with other writers have been instrumental in her creative process.



                Buy All I Know

                Amazon: https://amzn.to/3LkH0ct

                Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9798989492909



                Connect With Holly

                Website: https://hollyclabarbera.com/

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

                Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084384496084

                 

                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 #HealingThroughWriting #AuthorJourney #MentalHealth #TherapeuticWriting #SelfPublishing #Inspiration #UncorkingAStory #HollyLaBarbera #PodcastLife




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

                34 min
              8. Unlocking the Subconscious, with Philip Cioffari

                "Writing is like staying in shape; even when things aren't going well, sitting at the desk and writing keeps you ready for the day when the right ideas and words come." - Philip Cioffari

                Today we dive deep into the world of storytelling with special guest Philip Cioffari. Philip is a novelist, short story writer, playwright, and filmmaker whose journey from a young boy writing cowboy stories to an acclaimed author is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode, Philip shares insights from his new novel, Night and Its Longings, discusses the challenges and triumphs of a writer's life, and offers invaluable advice to aspiring writers. Whether you're an experienced writer or just starting, Philip’s story will motivate and encourage you to keep writing and let your creativity flow.


                Key Topics


                1. Early Inspiration and Radio Dramas: Philip’s childhood inspiration from listening to radio dramas like The Shadow and The Green Hornet. The influence of creating visuals from sound on his writing style.
                2. The Journey to Publication: The long and often challenging path to getting his first short story published. The importance of persistence and resilience in a writer's career.
                3. Teaching and Writing: Balancing a teaching career with writing. Insights from teaching fiction writing at Gotham Writers and at the university level.
                4. The Evolution of a Novel: The process of writing Night and Its Longings, from initial drafts to the final product. The role of character development in shaping the plot.
                5. Film and Playwriting: Philip experience in adapting his play Love in the Age of Dion into a film. The collaborative nature of theater and the unique satisfaction of seeing his work performed live.
                6. Advice for Aspiring Writers: The importance of writing every day and staying ready for inspiration. Philip's belief in the unconscious mind's role in storytelling.


                  7. Buy Night and its Longings

                  Amazon:https://amzn.to/4cI44hm

                  Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781604893748



                  Connect With Philip

                  Website: https://philipcioffari.com/

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


                   

                  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 #AuthorLife #Storytelling #CreativeProcess #WritersCommunity #InspirationForWriters #UncorkingAStory #PhilipCioffari #NightAndItsLongings #PodcastInterview


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

                  50 min
                7. Music and Murder with Hannah Mary McKinnon

                  "I like the idea of thinking of it as a gift, although it certainly doesn't feel like it at the time." — Hannah Mary McKinnon


                  In this episode of "Uncorking a Story," host Michael Carlon welcomes back internationally bestselling author Hannah Mary McKinnon. Known for her gripping suspense novels and heartwarming holiday romantic comedies, Hannah shares insights into her creative journey, her latest thriller "Only One Survives," and the balance between writing dark thrillers and uplifting rom-coms. Join us for an engaging conversation about the transformative power of writing, the inspiration behind Hannah's work, and her unique approach to storytelling.



                  Key Topics


                  1. Transition from Corporate to Creative Career: Hannah Mary McKinnon discusses her shift from a corporate career to becoming a successful author after the failure of her own business.
                  2. Balancing Genres: The contrast between writing dark thrillers and lighthearted romantic comedies, and how Hannah manages to balance both genres.
                  3. Inspiration from Music: The influence of music on Hannah's writing process, including creating a fictional band and writing song lyrics for her latest thriller.
                  4. Embracing Failure: The idea that failures can serve as catalysts for new beginnings and personal growth.
                  5. Importance of Storytelling: The transformative and therapeutic power of writing and storytelling, and how it can inspire and empower others.
                  6. Upcoming Projects: Teasers about Hannah’s future projects, including her new thriller "Only One Survives" and the possibility of her works being adapted for the screen.
                  7. Pop Culture Influences: The impact of movies, music, and other cultural references on Hannah’s writing and creative process.



                    Buy Only One Survives

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

                    Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9780778305477



                    Connect With Hannah Mary McKinnon

                    Website: https://hannahmarymckinnon.com/

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

                    Twitter: https://twitter.com/hannahmmckinnon

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

                    Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15144570.Hannah_Mary_McKinnon


                     

                    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.

                    33 min
                  8. Going into the Closet, with Mark Ukra and Tara Mesalik MacMahon

                    “When your fears disappear, your dreams appear.” —Gamma, from ”Closet of Dreams.”


                    In this episode, we dive into the enchanting world of childhood imagination and creative collaboration with brother-sister duo, Mark Ukra and Tara Masalaik McMahon. Join us as we explore their journey from a shared childhood closet of dreams to the creation of their heartwarming children's book series starting with Closet of Dreams.


                    Key Themes:

                    1. The Power of Imagination: Discover how Mark and Tara's childhood adventures in a magical closet inspired their writing careers.
                    2. Creative Collaboration: Learn about the unique dynamics of co-authoring a book with a sibling and the creative process behind "Closet of Dreams."
                    3. Social-Emotional Learning: Understand the subtle ways their book teaches valuable life lessons and emotional intelligence.
                    4. Publishing Pathways: Gain insights into their decision to pursue hybrid publishing and the benefits it brought to their project.
                    5. Community Impact: Hear about their innovative partnership with a pet adoption center and how their book is making a difference in the lives of animals and readers alike.
                    6. Future Projects: Get a sneak peek into the upcoming books in "The Adventures of Child and Gamma" series.


                      7. Buy Closet of Dreams

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

                      Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781665301657


                      Connect with Mark and Tara

                      Website:https://www.childandgamma.com/

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


                      Connect with Mike

                      Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/

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

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

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

                      Twitter: https://twitter.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.


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

                      38 min
                    7. Don’t Hold Back, with Jasmine Gonzalez

                      "It's okay to not be okay. Writing has been my way to let things out, to release the constriction of emotions, and to heal. I don't hold back in my poetry, and I encourage others to find their own way to express and release their feelings." – Jasmine Gonzalez

                      In this episode of "Uncorking a Story," we welcome Jasmine Gonzalez, a New York City-based poet whose work delves into the depths of mental health and trauma. Jasmine shares her journey from being a silent, introverted child to finding her voice through writing in college. She discusses the therapeutic power of poetry, the challenges of self-publishing her debut collection "Petals of the Red Dahlia," and the importance of giving a voice to marginalized writers. Jasmine also reads one of her poignant poems, "The Mystique of the Red Dahlia," and offers advice for aspiring writers on embracing vulnerability and the hard work of self-promotion. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, creativity, and the power of self-expression.


                      Key Themes:

                      1. Introduction to Jasmine Gonzalez: Discussing her background and the role of poetry in her life.
                      2. Finding Her Voice: How a college creative nonfiction class ignited her passion for writing.
                      3. Mental Health and Writing: Using poetry as a therapeutic tool to process trauma and emotions.
                      4. The Journey of Self-Publishing: Challenges faced and overcome in publishing "Petals of the Red Dahlia."
                      5. Performance and Connection: The impact of sharing her work on stage and connecting with her audience.
                      6. Future Plans: Writing inspired by her recent trip to Puerto Rico and ongoing projects.
                      7. Advice for Writers: Encouraging authenticity, the importance of social media, and not holding back emotions in writing.
                      8. Reading of "The Mystique of the Red Dahlia": A powerful excerpt from her collection.


                        9. Buy Petals of the Red Dahlia

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

                        Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9798851684920


                        Connect with Jasmine

                        Website: www.jasmineg.net 

                        Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasmineg.nyc/


                        Connect with Mike

                        Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/

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

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

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

                        Twitter: https://twitter.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.




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

                        20 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,…