Uncorking a Story

Uncorking a Story

By Michael CarlonComedySociety & CultureArtsBooks
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Uncorking a Story episodes

  • Measure Twice, Cut Once with Craig Johnson

    Imagine sitting with an acquiring editor who just offered you a multi book deal to write a series based on your first book and telling them that you will think about it. Sounds crazy, right? Well, that’s just part of prolific writer Craig Johnson’s amazing story.


    Meet Craig Johnson

    Craig Johnson is the New York Times bestselling author of the Longmire mysteries, the basis for the hit Netflix original series Longmire. He is the recipient of the Western Writers of America Spur Award for fiction and the Mountain & Plains Independent Booksellers Association's Reading the West Book Award for fiction. He lives in Ucross, Wyoming, population twenty-six and joined me today on Uncorking a Story to talk about his career and latest book, The Longmire Defense.


    Key Takeaways


    1. The importance of perseverance: Throughout the conversation, Craig Johnson emphasizes the need to stay focused and dedicated to one's craft. He shares his own experiences of facing challenges and setbacks but ultimately persevering to achieve success as a bestselling author. Listeners will learn the value of persistence in pursuing their own goals.
    2. The power of raw energy and dissatisfaction: Johnson reflects on the early stages of his career and acknowledges that a certain level of restlessness and dissatisfaction can be a driving force for creative individuals. He encourages listeners to embrace their passion and harness their raw energy to fuel their work.
    3. The significance of preparation: Johnson emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the unknown. He uses the analogy of taking a road trip without a map to highlight the need for writers to have a plan and be ready for any obstacles that may arise. Listeners will understand the value of thorough preparation in their own creative endeavors.
    4. The need to challenge conventions: Johnson encourages writers to break the mold and engage readers by offering something unique and different. He advises against writing something that sounds like what has been read before, urging writers to push boundaries and captivate their audience with fresh ideas and innovative storytelling.
    5. The constant battle against complacency: Johnson warns against becoming a lazy writer and stresses the importance of continuously striving for excellence. He encourages writers to keep their readers engaged by maintaining a high level of imagination, imagery, and creativity in their work. Listeners will be inspired to avoid complacency and consistently challenge themselves to improve their craft.



      6. Buy The Longmire Defense

      Amazon: https://amzn.to/44e4CH0

      Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9780593297315



      Connect With Craig

      Website: https://www.craigallenjohnson.com/

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

      Twitter: https://twitter.com/ucrosspop25

      Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ucrosspop25/

       

      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 #StorytellersUncovered #InfluenceOfBackgrounds #WritingJourney #WesternWriting #NetflixShow #BookTour #AuthorExperience #StayingPower #PopCulture #FavoriteTVShows #WritingAdvice #BookContracts #PreciousTime #DearYoungerMe #StorytellingCraft #TVAdaptation #WritingChallenges #OriginalityInWriting #MissingRifle #WaltLongmire #WesternMovies #BookSales #TouringLife #WritingPassion #PatienceAndPrecision #PreparingForTheUnknown #ValueOfWritingBooks #BalancingLifeAndWriting #WritingMotivation #AuthorInterview




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      37 min
    6. Path of Survival, with Lynn Hightower

      I’ve long believed that writing is therapeutic but for author Lynn Hightower, it became her path of survival during a difficult period in her life. She explains that writing helped her escape the real world and allowed her to express her opinions on grief and hearing loss through her characters. So, writing isn’t done just for the benefit of readers, but for us authors as well!


      Meet Lynn Hightower

      Lynn Hightower is the author of numerous thrillers, including the Sonora Blair and Lena Padget detective series. Her internationally-bestselling novels have been included in the New York Times List of Notable Books, the London Times’ bestseller lists, the WH Smith Fresh Talent Awards, and the Shamus award. She also teaches Master Novel classes in the UCLA Extension Writing Program, and works as a Manuscript Consultant/Writing Coach for novelists.  She joined me on Uncorking a Story to talk about her career and her latest book, The Beautiful Risk.


      Key Takeaways


      1. The Power of Encouragement: The episode highlights the impact of a teacher's encouragement on Lynn's writing journey, emphasizing the importance of support and belief in one's abilities. 
      2. Finding Inspiration in Personal Experiences: Lynn's personal experiences, such as her connection with German Shepherds and the loss of her husband, have served as inspiration for her writing. It reminds listeners to draw from their own lives when seeking creative inspiration. 
      3. The Lessons and Gifts of Grief: Lynn discusses the positive aspects and lessons that can be learned from grief, challenging common misconceptions and offering a different perspective on the grieving process. 
      4. The Importance of Rest and Sleep: Lynn emphasizes the significance of uninterrupted sleep and the need to prioritize rest for overall well-being. 
      5. Trusting Intuition: Lynn shares her belief in making decisions based on intuition, highlighting the value of trusting one's instincts and listening to inner guidance. 



        6. Buy The Beautiful Risk

        Amazon: https://amzn.to/45x01Rf

        Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781448309931



        Connect With Lynn

        Website: https://www.lynnhightower.com/

        Twitter: https://twitter.com/lynnshightower

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

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


         

        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 #WritingJourney #LifeExperiences #GriefAndHealing #SelfCare #EncouragementMatters #InspirationFromWithin #LessonsOfGrief #TrustYourGut #RestfulSleep




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        38 min
      6. From the Stage to the Page, with Stephanie Cowell


        Writing is a dynamic and ever-evolving process. By embracing change and finding inspiration in unexpected places, you can breathe new life into your writing. Just ask Stephanie Cowell, whose latest book, A Boy in the Rain, was started over forty years ago. It was only recently that Stephanie felt as if she could finish it, which just goes to show that all of the book we have within us will come out on their time, not necessarily our time.

        Meet Stephanie Cowell

        Stephanie has been an opera singer, balladeer, and founder of Strawberry Opera and other arts venues, including a Renaissance festival and an outdoor arts series in New York City. She is the author of Nicholas Cooke, The Physician of London, The Players: A Novel of the Young Shakespeare, Marrying Mozart, and Claude & Camille: A Novel of Monet. Her work had been translated into nine languages and adapted into an opera. Stephanie is also the recipient of an American Book Award. She joined me on Uncorking a Story to talk about her career and latest book, The Boy in the Rain.


        5 Key Takeaways

        1. Stay Open to Pivoting: Just like Stephanie experienced, be open to changing your plans and embracing unexpected turns in your writing. Allow your characters and story to guide you, even if it means deviating from your original outline. By remaining flexible, you may discover new and exciting directions for your narrative that you hadn't considered before.
        2. Revisit Old Works: Stephanie’s latest book is something she started forty years ago. Spend some time to dust off those forgotten manuscripts and breathe new life into them. With fresh perspectives and experiences, you might find that these older works can be transformed into something extraordinary.
        3. Seek Feedback and Immediate Reactions: Unlike performing on stage, writing often lacks immediate feedback. However, it's crucial to seek feedback from trusted sources to gauge the impact of your work. Join writing groups, share your drafts with beta readers, or participate in workshops to receive constructive criticism. These insights will help you refine your writing and understand how your stories resonate with others.
        4. Embrace the Delayed Reactions: While immediate reactions are gratifying, writing offers a unique experience of delayed reactions. Embrace the anticipation and uncertainty that comes with waiting for readers' responses. Remember that the impact of your words can unfold over time, and the delayed reactions can be just as rewarding as immediate ones.
        5. Embrace Change in Life: Writing is deeply intertwined with life experiences. Embrace the changes and challenges that come your way, as they can fuel your creativity and enrich your storytelling. Allow personal growth, relationships, and unexpected events to shape your writing journey. Embracing change in life will bring depth and authenticity to your stories.


          6. Buy The Boy in the Rain

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

          Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781646033492



          Connect With Stephanie

          Website: https://www.stephaniecowell.com/

          Twitter: https://twitter.com/StephanieCowell

          Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cowell.stephanie/?hl=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.


          #FlexibilityInWritingAndLife #MusicalJourney #GenderIdentity #WritingInspiration #NewYorkMemories #TelevisionPreferences #RespectedActor #EmbracingChange #MozartEnthusiast #FamilyLegacy #SocialMediaPresence #StephanieCowell #Uncorkingastory $LGBTQ+



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          39 min
        6. This Much is True, with Wendy Holden

          Today, we have the fabulous Wendy Holden, a British journalist and novelist with global success, joining us to spill the tea on her latest book, "The Princess." We're talking about the ultimate royal celebrity, Diana Princess of Wales, and a fictionalized backstory of her young adulthood. Trust me, this episode is packed with more drama than a reality TV show, so grab your popcorn and get ready to uncork this captivating story with us. Let's dive in, shall we?


          Meet Wendy Holden

          Wendy Holden is a British novelist who has authored ten Sunday Times top ten bestsellers and has sold over three million copies worldwide. She joined me on Uncorking a Story to discuss her latest book, The Princess, which explores the astonishing backstory and young adulthood of the ultimate royal celebrity–Diana, Princess of Wales.


          Key Takeaways



          1. Persistence is the name of the game: Wendy's journey into the world of writing wasn't a walk in the park. It took grit, determination, and a whole lot of persistence to break into journalism and eventually become a bestselling novelist. So, my fellow scribes, remember to keep pushing forward, even when the rejection letters start piling up. You got this!
          2. Fictionalize like a boss: Wendy's knack for fictionalizing real events is what sets her novels apart. As writers, we have the power to breathe life into historical figures and create captivating stories around them. So, don't be afraid to put your own spin on reality and let your imagination run wild. Just remember to do your research, because accuracy is key!
          3. Unveil the untold stories: Wendy's exploration of Marian's untold story with the royal family is a prime example of the power of shedding light on lesser-known narratives. As writers, we have the opportunity to give a voice to those who have been overlooked or overshadowed. So, dig deep, uncover those hidden gems, and let their stories shine bright like a literary supernova!
          4. Find your unique angle: Wendy's focused perspective on the early years and events leading to engagement in her novel is a masterclass in finding your niche. As writers, it's crucial to approach a subject from a fresh and unique angle. So, don't be afraid to zig when others zag, and bring your own flavor to the literary feast. Trust me, readers will devour it!
          5. Embrace your roots: Wendy's childhood memories of British television shows and music highlight the importance of embracing your roots. Our upbringing and experiences shape our writing style and voice. So, whether you grew up binging on British sitcoms or jamming to pop songs, let those influences infuse your work. Embrace your quirks, your humor, and your unique perspective. It's what makes you, well, you!



            6. Buy The Princess

            Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Qz2XbH

            Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9780593437308



            Connect With Wendy

            Website: https://www.wendyholden.net/

            Twitter: https://twitter.com/wendy_Holden

            Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wendyholdenauthor/?hl=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.

            #InspiringAuthors #MotivatedToWrite #RoyalIntrigue #PersistencePaysOff #UnveilingThePast #FindingInspiration #WritingJourney #PassionForStorytelling #AuthorSuccess #RoyalStories #NeverGiveUp #BelieveInYourself #DreamBig #MotivationalSpeaker #PodcastEpisode #WendyHolden #uncorkingastory



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            44 min
          6. Below the Surface, with Colin Dickey

            I was once eating dinner alone at a bar in Petaluma, CA when a fellow solo diner started a conversation by saying, “I’m no conspiracy theorist but…” and what came out of his mouth would make Dan Brown raise an eyebrow. When I was offered the chance to speak with Colin Dickey, who recently wrote a book on the history of conspiracy theories, I jumped at the chance. 


            Meet Colin Dickey

            Colin is a writer, speaker, and academic, who has made a career out of collecting unusual objects and hidden histories all over the country. He’s the author of multiple books, including Ghostland: An American History in Haunted Places and The Unidentified: Mythical Monsters, Alien Encounters, and Our Obsession with the Unexplained. He Joined me on Uncorking a Story to talk about his latest book, Under the Eye of Power: How Fear of Secret Societies Shapes American Democracy.



            Key Takeaways

            1. The historical roots and implications of conspiracy theories: Colin delves into the origins of conspiracy theories, exploring how they have been used to suppress social change and perpetuate anti-Semitism.
            2. The persistent influence of conspiracy theories and social media: Colin discusses how social media platforms and algorithms have contributed to the spread and popularity of conspiracy theories, emphasizing that they are not going away anytime soon. 
            3. The emotional appeal and function of conspiracy theories: Colin explores the psychological aspects of conspiracy theories, highlighting their ability to provide reassurance and make sense of a chaotic world. 
            4. Skepticism towards UFO coverage on TV channels: Colin expresses his skepticism towards the way UFO encounters are portrayed in television specials, encouraging listeners to critically analyze the information presented. 
            5. Addressing conspiracy theories on an interpersonal level: Colin suggests that combating conspiracy theories requires understanding the underlying motivations and addressing them individually, rather than solely relying on media platforms to solve the issue.


              6. Buy Under the Eye of Power: How Fear of Secret Societies Shapes American Democracy


              Amazon: https://amzn.to/44Zmq9A

              Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9780593299456



              Connect With Colin

              Website: https://colindickey.com/

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

               

              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 #ColinDickey #ConspiracyTheoriesExplained #UFOCoverageSkepticism#AddressingConspiracyTheories #PsychologyOfConspiracyTheories #ConspiracyTheoriesOnSocialMedia #ConspiracyTheoryOrigins



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

              38 min
            6. Curiosity and Connection, with Alison Gaylin

              Given my love of Columbo, I love it when a guest has a good Peter Falk story, and Alison Gaylin doesn’t disappoint. She doubled down when expressing her appreciation for The Love Boat—and now I think I have to marry her. Don’t tell our spouses.


              Meet Alison Gaylin

              Alison is the Edgar and Shamus award-winning author of 12 books and many short stories. A USA Today and international bestseller, she joined me on Uncorking a Story to talk about her latest novel, Robert B. Parker’s Bad Influence.


              Key Takeaways


              1. The importance of perseverance: Alison Gaylin's journey to becoming a published author showcases the significance of perseverance in the face of discouragement. Despite not receiving encouragement from her high school English teacher, she pursued her passion for writing and eventually achieved her goal.
              2. The importance of curiosity in storytelling: Gaylin emphasizes the role of curiosity in crafting engaging stories. She believes that a good story starts with the author's curiosity, even in seemingly mundane subjects. This curiosity drives the narrative and captivates readers.
              3. The evolution of writing themes: Gaylin discusses how her writing themes have changed over time, influenced by her own life experiences. She emphasizes the importance of tapping into personal experiences to create relatable and authentic stories that resonate with readers.
              4. The power of human connection in storytelling: Gaylin believes that a good story hinges on the ability to create a connection between the reader and the author. She highlights the role of curiosity in storytelling and how it drives the author's exploration of seemingly mundane topics, ultimately leading to engaging narratives.
              5. The significance of practice and growth: Gaylin emphasizes that writing is a skill that improves with practice and feedback. She encourages aspiring writers to dedicate time to honing their craft through consistent writing and reading.



                6. Buy Robert B. Parker’s Bad Influence

                Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Yf7MZv

                Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9780593540527



                Connect With Alison

                Website: https://www.alisongaylin.com/

                Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alison.gaylin/#!/profile.php?id=666353590

                Twitter: https://twitter.com/alisongaylin

                Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alison.gaylin/

                 

                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.

                37 min
              6. Doing the Twist, with Liv Constantine

                My twin brother and I are very close—so close in fact that we can finish each other’s sentences. That said, I couldn’t imagine writing a book with him, let alone a series of books. That’s just one of the things that amazes me about sisters Lynne and Valerie Constantine, who are today’s guests on Uncorking a Story.


                Meet Liv Constantine

                Liv Constantine is the pen name of sisters Lynne and Valerie Constantine who are Wall St. Journal and USA Today international bestselling authors with over one million copies sold worldwide. Their books have been praised by USA Today, The Sunday Times, The Washington Post, People Magazine, and Good Morning America, among many others. They joined me on Uncorking a Story to discuss their career and latest novel, The Senator's Wife.


                Key Takeaways


                1. The secrets to executing a great twist: The authors discuss the significance of a satisfying twist in a story and share advice on how to execute it effectively. Listeners will gain insights into creating compelling plot twists that captivate readers.
                2. Collaboration in writing: Liv Constantine talks about the benefits of collaborating with a writing partner. They explain how working together enriches the story and characters, providing a different perspective and allowing for bouncing ideas off each other.
                3. The magic of writing and the Greek connection: The authors reflect on the unique experience of writing and how certain books hold a special place in readers' hearts. They discuss their Greek heritage and how it influenced their writing, including the use of Greek names and themes in their work.
                4. Divvying up responsibilities in co-writing: Liv Constantine shares their process of dividing responsibilities when co-writing. They explain how they split characters and chapters, while also ensuring that both authors are fully invested in every character. Listeners will gain insights into effective collaboration techniques and finding a workflow that works for them.
                5. Editing and revising: The authors emphasize the importance of editing and revising in the writing process. They discuss their thorough editing process, which involves multiple rounds of edits and exchanging chapters for feedback. Listeners will learn the value of editing and refining their work before submitting it for publication.



                  6. Buy The Senator’s Wife

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

                  Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9780593599891



                  Connect With Liv

                  Website: https://livconstantine.com/

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

                  Twitter: https://twitter.com/LivConstantine2

                  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livconstantine2/

                  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtDqlH8AExvMr-eMNIjLBMQ

                   


                  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.

                  31 min
                6. A Dream Deferred, with Jenny Jackson

                  While many of us dream of being writers from a young age, the truth is, not all of us can do it early on in our lives and find that we have to defer that dream for another time. Jenny Jackson, whose debut novel Pineapple Street is quite possibly the most buzzed about book of the spring/summer isn’t any different—she spent decades in publishing learning the craft by working with some of the world’s most renowned authors before becoming an author herself.


                  Meet Jenny Jackson

                  Jenny is a Vice President and Executive Editor at Alfred A. Knopf and joined me today to talk about her debut novel, Pineapple Street.


                  Key Topics


                  1. The power of turning personal experiences into stories: Jenny Jackson discusses how writers can embrace life lessons and use them as inspiration for their stories. 
                  2. The importance of perseverance in writing: Jenny shares advice from a bestselling author who emphasizes the need to keep going even when you get stuck. She encourages writers not to give up and to pick up their work again, even if it takes years to complete.
                  3. Navigating personal boundaries in fiction writing: Jenny discusses the challenge of balancing personal experiences and boundaries when writing fiction. She shares insights into how writers can draw inspiration from their own lives while still respecting their own privacy and the privacy of others.
                  4. The significance of archiving and valuing your own work: Jenny reflects on the importance of keeping track of your writing and having respect for your own work. 
                  5. The writer’s revenge: Jenny shares an anecdote of how writers can put people who have treated you poorly into your books without them ever knowing.



                    6. Buy Pineapple Street

                    Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Kggp0p

                    Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9780593490693



                    Connect With Jenny

                    Website: 

                    Facebook:

                    Twitter: 

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

                     


                    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.

                    39 min
                  6. Doing It, with Peter Maeck

                    Today’s guest, Peter Maeck, inspired me with his words of advice for his younger self—”If you have an impulse and are young enough to start at an entry level, do it! Don’t worry about the risks and the outcomes.” These were words that I wish I heard in my late teens and early twenties as acting on them might have helped me get off my butt and explore my authentic self instead of making decisions that pleased other people, but left me wanting more. Still, it’s never too late to find yourself and try new things so, if writing is your thing, listen up because Peter has more wisdom to share.


                    Meet Peter Maeck

                    Peter Maeck is a novelist, poet, playwright, and photographer who has served as a US State Department American Cultural Specialist in Tanzania and Morocco. His award-winning photographs are in US and international galleries. He was named one of the "Hot 100 Photographers of 2021" by the Duncan Miller Gallery in Los Angeles and joined me on Uncorking a Story to talk about his debut novel, Zänker. 


                    Key Takeaways

                    1. The power of personal experiences: Peter Meck emphasizes the importance of drawing inspiration from personal experiences when crafting stories. He shares how childhood memories, passions, and even coincidences have influenced his writing, showcasing how our own unique journeys can shape compelling narratives.

                    2. Overcoming creative obstacles: Peter discusses how he initially struggled with the daunting task of facing a blank page. However, he shares a valuable lesson from his teacher, who encouraged him to find inspiration in everyday objects or images. This teaches listeners that creativity can be sparked by the simplest things, and that perseverance is key in overcoming creative obstacles.

                    3. The significance of character development: Peter highlights the importance of developing well-rounded and authentic characters in storytelling. He explains how investing time in understanding and fleshing out characters can bring depth and relatability to their stories, ultimately resonating with readers or audiences.

                    4. Collaboration and friendship: Peter's journey in the theater world showcases the power of collaboration and the impact of strong friendships. He shares how a joint audition with a friend led to exciting opportunities and how transitioning from playwriting to communal novel writing opened up new creative avenues. This emphasizes the value of supportive relationships and the potential for collaborative storytelling.

                    5. Writing as therapy: Peter discusses how writing has served as a form of therapy and self-reflection throughout his life. He shares how it has helped him process emotions, gain clarity, and find solace. This insight inspires listeners to view storytelling not only as a means of entertainment but also as a powerful tool for personal growth and healing.


                    Buy Zänker

                    Amazon:https://amzn.to/3K5ZxZQ

                    Bookshop.org: https://amzn.to/3K5ZxZQ



                    Connect With Peter

                    Website: http://www.petermaeck.com/

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

                    EMail: [email protected] 


                    Connect with Mike

                    Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/

                    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG

                    3L1JMZeOyHvfk_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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                    42 min
                  7. No Backup Plan, with Andrew Ridker

                    They say you can never go home again, but no one told that to Andrew Ridker. During the height of the Covid 19 pandemic, Andrew left his apartment in Brooklyn, NY to head back to his childhood home in Brookline, MA. It was being back in his hometown, sharing his childhood home with his wife and sister, where his latest novel, Hope, started to take shape.


                    Meet Andrew Ridker

                    Andrew’s debut novel, The Altruists, was a New York Times Editors’ Choice, a Paris Review Staff Pick, and a People Book of the Week. He is the editor of Privacy Policy: The Anthology of Surveillance Poetics and his writing has appeared in The New York Times, Esquire, Le Monde, and Bookforum, among other publications. He is a graduate of the Iowa Writers’ Workshop and joined me on Uncorking a Story to talk about his latest book, HOPE, an intimate portrait of the undoing of a seemingly-perfect family in an era of waning American optimism


                    Key Takeaways

                    1. The importance of perseverance: Listeners will learn that Andrew Ridker encourages aspiring writers to keep going despite self-doubt and the challenges of the writing career. His own experiences with self-doubt and the need to overcome obstacles will inspire listeners to persevere in their own creative pursuits.

                    2. The power of connection: Ridker emphasizes the value of connecting with readers and engaging in correspondence with them. By sharing his website as a means of contact, he demonstrates the importance of building relationships with readers and fostering a sense of community around his work.

                    3. The impact of personal experiences on storytelling: Ridker's novel, "Hope," explores the undoing of a seemingly perfect family in an era of waning American optimism. Listeners will learn how Ridker draws from his own experiences and observations to create intimate and relatable narratives that resonate with readers.

                    4. Balancing artistic passion with practicality: Ridker discusses the pressure he feels to choose a practical career path versus pursuing his artistic passions. Listeners will gain insight into the challenges faced by artists who strive to balance their desire to create meaningful art with the need to make a living.

                    5. The role of humor in art: Ridker reflects on the importance of humor in his writing and the influence of Jewish humor on his work. Listeners will learn how humor can be a powerful tool for engaging readers and exploring complex themes, as well as how personal experiences and cultural influences shape an author's artistic voice.


                    Buy Hope

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

                    Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9780593493335


                    Connect With Andrew

                    Website: https://www.andrewridker.com/

                    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andrew.ridker


                    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.

                    34 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,…