Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast True Fiction Project
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| S5 Ep 13 - Swift Sword | 17 Dec 2024 | 00:23:58 | |
Hi everyone! This week, I am thrilled to introduce Doyle Glass, a former criminal prosecutor, an American historical novelist, and a sculptor who brings us the powerful story of the young men who fought in Vietnam. Doyle's journey is one of passion, perseverance, and the desire to preserve the untold stories of those who served. His book, Swift Sword, is a tribute to the Vietnam War veterans whose real experiences were often overlooked or forgotten. Tune in for an unforgettable conversation about history, healing, and the importance of telling the truth. IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora
Reenita is also on Patreon! Check out her link here:https://www.patreon.com/Reenita
Fiction Credits: Written by Doyle Glass Read by Doyle Glass
GUEST RESOURCES:
HOST RESOURCES BIO: Doyle Glass (born January 22, 1962) is an American historical novelist and sculptor known for his bestselling books Lions of Medina (2007) and Swift Sword (2023), as well as his sculptures of the Texas and Kentucky Medal of Honor Memorials. A former criminal prosecutor, Glass began writing and sculpting after his legal career. Lions of Medina details the sacrifices of Charlie Company Marines in Vietnam, while Swift Sword recounts a harrowing firefight in the Queson Valley. His upcoming book, Unthrottled: The Story of Robert Benoist (2025), will tell the story of a French Grand Prix champion turned British secret agent during WWII. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S5 Ep 12 - How We Healed | 03 Dec 2024 | 00:17:24 | |
Hi everyone! This week, I am excited to introduce Melody Fowler, a passionate creative who brings a story to us ranging over several decades. The inspiration for this historical fiction novel comes from her husband’s grandmother, Loucindia. She died at the age of 97 but left behind a life-long trail of stories. Melody reads an excerpt from her book How We Healed which tells of Loucindia facing the Great Appalachian Storm of 1950 and waiting for her alcoholic husband to come home. Tune in for a story of a powerful woman, ahead of her time.
IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora
Reenita is also on Patreon! Check out her link here:https://www.patreon.com/Reenita
Fiction Credits: Written by Melody Fowler Read by Melody Fowler
GUEST RESOURCES: Melody Fowler - Facebook Personal Page Melody Fowler - Facebook Business Page Melody Fowler - Twitter Personal Account HOST RESOURCES BIO: Melody is from Vancouver, BC, Canada. Three years ago, Melody retired after decades of working for the government. The artist in her was now completely free to pursue her passions. She is a recognized painter and a poet. Her art has been showcased in local galleries. Her first book was Life Lyrics: Love, Sex & Other Deviances, a book of poetry, and her latest work is How We Healed a novel she has co-written with her husband, Arric. She now lives outside Vancouver with her husband, where their backyard, affectionately known as the "Fowler Vineyard," continues to produce amazing mustard, wines, jams and jellies. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S5 Ep 11 - Pied Piper's Prince | 19 Nov 2024 | 00:23:34 | |
This week, I am excited to introduce paranormal writer Gina Lynelle Schaefer. The stories she shares throughout the episode are quite fascinating and it is inspiring to learn more about her writing process and how she is inspired by real life events. She shares about her personal contributions and how she pulls them into stories, as well as her experience with capturing ghosts. Gina reads an excerpt from her book Pied Piper’s Prince which is inspired by the Candy Man. This portion of the story is when the veil is lifted, and a woman is trying to understand what happened in her home in the past. Tune in if you enjoy spooky, goosebump giving stories!
IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora
Reenita is also on Patreon! Check out her link here:https://www.patreon.com/Reenita
Fiction Credits: Written by Gina Lynelle Schaefer Read by Gina Lynelle Schaefer
GUEST RESOURCES: Gina Schaefer's Facebook Personal Page Gina Schaefer's Facebook Business Page HOST RESOURCES BIO: Gina Lynelle Schaefer is the author of five books based out of historical fiction and paranormal horror. She has performed paranormal investigations and visited and written about all realms of paranormal and true crime. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S5 Ep 10 - Meet Me in Ivy Falls | 05 Nov 2024 | 00:23:12 | |
Welcome to the True Fiction Project! From historical fiction to adult romances, Amy True is a wonderful storyteller. Amy shares the various female protagonists she showcases in her stories, and who she got the inspiration from. She explains how she creates her characters and the process of writing historical fiction. Amy then shares what led her to add adult romance to her list of books. Tune in to hear an excerpt from her newest book Meet Me in Ivy Falls, about a hot mess of a woman who goes on to save a small town. IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and listen to Bill’s second song, “It is What it Is Until It’s Not”. You will also be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora
Reenita is also on Patreon! Check out her link here:https://www.patreon.com/Reenita
Fiction Credits: Written by Amy True Read by Amy True
GUEST RESOURCES:
HOST RESOURCES BIO: After stints working in entertainment and advertising, Amy True turned to chasing her one dream: writing romance. She can often be found in her local writing spot sipping her favorite iced tea (with a touch of lemonade) and putting together playlists for her next books. When she’s not daydreaming about her next cinnamon roll hero, she’s traveling with her family, reading good books, and plotting her next small-town romance. While she grew up only ten minutes from Disneyland, which inspired her love for storytelling, she now calls Arizona home. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S5 Ep 9 - Season of the Witch: Whispers Most Foul | 22 Oct 2024 | 00:18:35 | |
Welcome to the Season of the Witch! This week I am joined by Emma MacDonald, a storyteller of witch fantasy. We talk about all things witches from black and white witches, to herbal witches. Emma explains how she uses witchcraft in her life, and how it is different from the outcasted witches of the past. She shares what inspired her to write her novel Whispers Most Foul about a college student who cannot cast spells, but can see ghosts. At the end of the episode, you’ll hear an excerpt of her novel, which is when the main character, Rose, is visited by a ghostly vision in the bath. Interested in reading more? Whispers Most Foul is out now! Check it out here. IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora Reenita is also on Patreon! Check out her link here:https://www.patreon.com/Reenita Fiction Credits: Written by Emma MacDonald Read by Emma MacDonald GUEST RESOURCES: Emma MacDonald's Twitter Account Emma MacDonald's Instagram Account Emma MacDonald's TikTok Account HOST RESOURCES BIO: Emma MacDonald was born and raised outside of Washington, DC, where she received a B.A in International Relations from American University. When she’s not writing, she can be found gardening, brewing potions, or chasing after her small menagerie of pets. Emma loves to write fantasy with a big splash of magic and romance. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S5 Ep 8 - Second Set | 08 Oct 2024 | 00:33:21 | |
Hello everyone! This week, on the True Fiction Project, I am joined by screenplay writer and professor of film and media, Candace Egan. Candace shares about how she works on a variety of different genres from horror to comedy pieces. She talks about her latest piece, Second Set which is a twist on getting a second chance to do something you would never expect. Candace describes her writing and revision process and what it looks like to go from draft to final piece. At the end of the show we hear an excerpt from Second Set about a woman who received a tennis scholarship, but after ending up pregnant at a young age, decided to move away. She has since come back home and is getting a second chance at tennis. IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora Reenita is also on Patreon! Check out her link here:https://www.patreon.com/Reenita Fiction Credits: Written by Candace Egan Read by Candace Egan GUEST RESOURCES: HOST RESOURCES BIO: Candace Egan is a professor of Film and Media Arts at Fresno State and a screenwriter focused on female-forward stories. She’s had a long career as a non-fiction visual storyteller, exploring stories about a breadth of people such as the first Hmong women to go to college, a U.S. Poet Laureate, and competitive wheelchair tennis players. She writes female-driven stories about mature, authentic women who transform into vibrant, adventurous versions of themselves and learn that it’s never too late to explore new opportunities. Her comedy pilot “Second Set” about a grandmother becoming a freshman tennis student-athlete, based on Candace’s own experience, has won or placed in 16 contests including winning a fellowship at the Stowe Story Labs. When Candace isn’t writing she’s on the tennis court trying to keep up with spry, athletic 80-year-olds who compete internationally. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S5 Ep 7 - Save Your Drama For Your Mama | 24 Sep 2024 | 00:27:28 | |
I can’t wait for you to meet my guest this week, singer and songwriter, Bill Abernathy. Bill started in the music world at 19, then shifted to work in the corporate world for 40 years and has come back around to music! Many of his songs are based around sci-fi and the political world that we are experiencing today. Tune in to hear his song Save Your Drama for Your Mama and if you are a paid substack subscriber or a patreon member, you can listen to his second hit It is What it Is Until It’s Not. If you are up for a challenge, after you listen to both songs, send me a message at reenita.com/contact-us about the sci-fi connections you hear for a chance at a prize! IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and listen to Bill’s second song, “It is What it Is Until It’s Not”. You will also be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora Or subscribe to Patreon for exclusive content! https://www.patreon.com/Reenita Fiction Credits: Written by Bill Abernathy Sung by Bill Abernathy
GUEST RESOURCES: Reenita Malhotra Hora - send your challenge answers here! Bill Abernathy's Personal Facebook Bill Abernathy's Business Facebook HOST RESOURCES BIO: Bill Abernathy has embarked on an exceptional journey, courageously navigating through the ebbs and flows of his musical and corporate life. Rising from humble beginnings, he has persistently pushed beyond the ordinary, challenging the status quo and dismantling long standing stereotypes. Bill's Latest Project "MORE", released in 2023 has had 3 #1 singles in the Adult Contemporary Charts. The Songs, "Hideaway", Call Their Name, and the title cute "More", have reached hundreds of thousands of listeners on various streaming and video platforms. In 2017, Abernathy's musical passion ignited with the release of his album "Find A Way," indelibly inscribing his unique signature on the vast tapestry of music. His pivotal track, "Goodbye Will Never Come Again," ascended to the zenith of the Roots Music Chart, signaling the inception of a truly extraordinary musical journey. Venturing further, his acclaimed album "Crossing Willow Creek," unveiled the hit "Cry Wolf," among other tracks that captivated international audiences, increasing his global reach. His deeply stirring track, "Who Are You, Who Am I," from his 2021 EP, earned him a place as a finalist for ISSA Song of the Year— an accolade that attests to his ever-evolving artistry. Abernathy's music has permeated the globe, amassing streams from countless devoted listeners. His authentic voice, genuine songwriting, and masterful storytelling have nurtured a long-lasting bond with his audience, carving a niche for him in the hearts of music lovers across the world. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S5 Ep 6 - Queer Cheer | 10 Sep 2024 | 00:21:44 | |
Hey everyone! In this episode, I’m excited to introduce two amazing storytellers and writers to the show, Jodie Anders and Eric Rosswood. This week we are discussing their collaboration writing Queer Cheer and why it was so important to them to represent the queer teen community. We discuss identity, book bans, and the difference that teens are making in the queer community. Jodie shares a “News Announcement” from their book Queer Cheer, about two teens who are on a mission to remove a book ban. Tune in for a great episode! IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode, to receive the ‘News Announcement’ from the book Queer Cheer, referred to in the fiction section of the podcast, and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora
Fiction Credits: Written by Jodie Anders & Eric Rosswood Read by Jodie Anders
GUEST RESOURCES: HOST RESOURCES BIO: Jodie is a multi-talented artist whose work spans the mediums of acting, writing, videography, editing, and graphic design. As a Jewish bisexual creator who struggled as a teen, Jodie focuses on celebrating diversity and promoting youth empowerment. She currently serves as the Publicity and Communications Director for the youth non-profit California Rainbow Girls, where she's spent over two decades mentoring and guiding teens in confidence and leadership skills. She is the co-author of Queer Cheer: Activities, Advice, and Affirmations for LGBTQ+ Teens and the producer of "Let's Talk about Leadership, Service and Sisterhood," a podcast by and for teens. Eric Rosswood is an author and commentator on LGBTQ+ issues including civil rights, parenting, marriage, and politics. He has led panels on LGBTQ+ parenting issues for organizations such as the Family Equality Council and the Modern Family Alliance. His bestselling book, Journey to Same-Sex Parenthood, won numerous awards including the best Parenting/Family/Relationships book in the IAN Book of the Year Awards, the best Parenting book in the Readers’ Favorite Book Awards, and the best LGBTQ Non-Fiction book in the International Best Book Awards. His picture book, Strong, won the Stonewall Honor from the American Library Association. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S5 Ep 5 - In Conversation with Sathya Saran: Flying High Despite Clipped Wings | 27 Aug 2024 | 00:33:54 | |
Hey everyone! Welcome to this week's episode of the True Fiction Project. Today I’m honored to talk with Sathya Saran and learn her story about rising in the editorial world in India that was typically dominated by men. Sathya shares her experience in journalism and explains how she turned around and brought success to the magazine’s Femina India and Me Magazine for the DNA, Daily News and Analysis. Tune in to learn how she flew high, even when her wings were clipped. IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora
Fiction Credits: Read by Sathya Saran
GUEST RESOURCES:
HOST RESOURCES BIO: Best known for her long association with Femina, which she edited for 12 years, Sathya Saran is currently Consulting Editor with Penguin Random House India. Sathya Saran is also the author of a diverse variety of books. The Dark Side reflects her love of the short story, while the critically acclaimed biographies, Ten Years with Guru Dutt Abrar Alvi's Journey; Sun Mere Bandhu Re The Musical World of SD Burman and Baat Niklegi toh Phir The Life and Music of Jagjit Singh bear testimony to her love of cinema and music. Sathya has also written the hugely appreciated biography of Pt Hariprasad Chaurasia. Sathya teaches fashion journalism at NIFT Mumbai, Kangra and Srinagar. She has been a stage actor with Veenapani Chawla. Passionate about writing, she conceptualised and curates the first of its kind Writers Conclave titled The Spaces between Words the unfestival sponsored by JSW at Kaladham near Hampi. Sathya has written a tv serial titled Kashmakash on marital problems. Her column in Femina and Me magazine is now continuing to gain new fans as a guest column in Dainik Jagran. She also writes a column for the New Indian Express. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S5 Ep 4 - Balancing Act | 13 Aug 2024 | 00:34:31 | |
Hey everyone! Welcome to this week's True Fiction Project. India's celebrating its 78th Independence Day, and we've got a treat for you. A few years back, Shukla Lal shared her Partition story (which we have linked to below). Today, I'm excited to continue that thread with her niece and my lifelong friend, Miel Sahgal. Miel talks about growing up with her inspiring grandfather, his love for yoga, and how he influenced her essay "Balancing Act." At the end of the episode Miel shares her touching essay which hones into the story of her grandfather and her upbringing. Don’t miss it! IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora Fiction Credits: Written and read by Miel Sahgal Balancing Act in the Hamilton Arts & Letters RESOURCES: S2 EP 4 – India at 75: A special “Partition Story” with Shukla Lal, author of Rano & Phulo Episode HOST RESOURCES BIO: Miel Sahgal writes about nature, education, and contemporary world society. She serves on the Advisory Board of the Sanctuary Nature Foundation, where she was previously Managing Editor of Sanctuary Asia and conducted events for children and educators. Miel was born in India, and has co-authored a children’s book on Mumbai as well as a travel book on Maharashtra. She now lives in Southern Ontario, Canada. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S5 Ep 3 - An Indian Summer | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:27:45 | |
Welcome to this week's episode of the True Fiction Project! I am honored to have author and poet, Bhakti Mathur join the show. Bhakti is the author of two children’s series titled Amma, Take Me and Amma, Tell Me, which were inspired by exploring new places with her children. Aside from writing, Bhakti is also a bibliotherapist, who helps clients explore their emotions and heal through the use of fiction, non fiction and poetry. She explains how she got into the bibliotherapist work and came to be the first in Hong Kong. At the end of the episode, Bhakti shares three different poems with us. The first is about her grandmother’s death, the second is about the Ganges on fire, and the last is about a failed relationship. Tune in to learn more about bibliotherapy and hear her amazing poems. IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora Fiction Credits: Written and read by Bhakti Mathur GUEST RESOURCES: Bhakti Mathur's Personal Facebook Bhakti Mathur's Business Facebook Bookswithbee.net HOST RESOURCES BIO: Bhakti Mathur is the author of the 'Amma Tell Me' and 'Amma Take Me' series of children’s books about Indian mythology and history, with 19 published titles to date. After a long stint as a banker, she now juggles her time between writing, practicing yoga, and with her family. She lives in Hong Kong with her husband, their two children, and two dogs. She holds a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing from the University of Hong Kong and is a freelance journalist with 100 published articles in the South China Morning Post on life, health, and fitness. Bhakti is an ICF credentialled (ACC) executive coach and is Hong Kong's first bibliotherapist. When not writing or running after her boys, Bhakti is happiest curled up with a book in one hand and a hot cup of chai in the other. To learn more about her, visit her at www.bhaktimathur.com, www.reflectwithbhakti.com, and www.bookswithb.net. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S5 Ep 2 - The Girl in the Toile Wallpaper | 16 Jul 2024 | 00:30:12 | |
Welcome to this week's episode of the True Fiction Project! Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of Mary K. Savarese, an "overnight success" who discovered her passion for writing after becoming an empty nester. In this episode, Mary shares how her life experiences have shaped her unique storytelling style, and why she loves to explore different genres and projects. Mary captivates us with her writing journey, from the challenges she faced to the triumphs she achieved. She also treats us to an exclusive reading from her trilogy, The Girl in the Toile Wallpaper. In this excerpt, we meet Dante, a man ensnared in a mysterious world, where an evil figure manipulates scenes he cannot intervene in. Tune in for an episode filled with creativity, perseverance, and the magic of storytelling! IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora
Fiction Credits: Written and read by Mary K. Savarese.
GUEST RESOURCES: Mary K. Savarese's Facebook Page HOST RESOURCES
BIO: Mary K. Savarese is a traditionally published, best-selling, award-winning fiction author and speaker. She is known for her quirky titles. Her debut novel, Tigers Love Bubble Baths & Obsession Perfume (who knew!) a mystery romance with a supernatural twist garnered eight awards. Her recent novel is a fantasy adventure intertwined with romance and has also become an audiobook. The Girl In The Toile Wallpaper, is the first in the StarWriters trilogy. The second novel, The StarWriters Club, will be published this July 15. A finalist in the CIBA 1st place and grand prize category, The Girl In The Toile Wallpaper, won The NYC Big Book Award for Fantasy, the International Royal DragonFly for Fantasy and YA and most recent swept the Fantasy category at the International Cadmus Awards. US Review of Books compared it to A Wrinkle in Time and Dr. Who. Mary K. Savarese was born in Brooklyn, NY, raised her family in New England, and now resides in Florida where she loves to take her readers on wonderful fantasies. Mary appears on iHeartRadio, radio podcasts, Streaming Podcasts, Mindalia TV, Cable, YouTube, local publications and UK Radio. Her novels can be purchased from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, on line & brick and mortar and independent book stores everywhere Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S5 Ep 1 - Vermilion Harvest: Playtime at the Bagh Book Launch | 02 Jul 2024 | 00:42:38 | |
Welcome to Season 5 of the True Fiction Project. We are kicking off this episode with something a little different. Traci DeForge, CEO and Founder of Produce Your Podcast, interviews Lynn Moon (CEO) and Shannon Peason (CFO), Co-Founders of the publisher, Indignor House, about the new book they are launching July 15, 2024, written by our very own Reenita Hora! Lynn and Shannon share a bit about the type of authors they typically work with, and how they became connected to Reenita. Lynn shares a lot of the history in India from when this book was written and the impact that it can have on future generations of those who read this book. At the end, you will hear an excerpt from Vermilion Harvest: Playtime at the Bagh written and read by Reenita herself about the forbidden love between an Anglo-Indian school teacher and a Muslim student activist against General Dyer’s impending tragedy. IN THIS EPISODE:
If you'd like to receive a FREE Chapter 1 of Vermilion Harvest - Playtime at the Bagh or if you are interested in inviting Reenita to connect with you book club (in person or by zoom), please send us a note at https://www.reenita.com/contact. Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of the podcast and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora Fiction Credits: Written and read by Reenita Hora RESOURCES: Where to buy Vermilion Harvest: Playtime at the Bagh:
If you'd like to receive a FREE Chapter 1 of Vermilion Harvest - Playtime at the Bagh or if you are interested in inviting Reenita to connect with you book club (in person or by zoom), please send us a not at https://www.reenita.com/contact.) Guest Information Get in touch with Reenita: BIO: Bio for Lynn Moon: CEO & Co-Founder of the publisher, Indignor House Lynn is the award-winning author of the Agency Series that follows a government with unlimited power and money. She has worked for state and federal government agencies and uses her long reaching personal experiences to captivate her audience with realistic stories of political corruption. Her novels have won awards including the Moonbeam Children's Book Award, IPPY award, and the Dante Rossetti Book award. Lynn holds an MPA in Public Administration from Troy State University and an MFA in Literature from Lindenwood University. She’s the CEO of Indignor House, working to change the publishing environment one book at a time. Bio for Shannon Pearson: CEO & Co-Founder of the publisher, Indignor House Shannon comes to Indignor House with a treasure trove of over 10 years of experience in accounting and administrative services. For the last five years, Shannon has worked in the editorial fields of all genres. With her talent, she gives the numbers and letters a refined breath of fresh air. Bio for Reenita Hora Reenita, the 'Nora Ephron' of South Asian storytelling, spinning yarns as eclectic as Mumbai's iconic 'Bhel Puri' – a tantalizing concoction of flavors with an occasional bug for that extra crunch! Her stories star a motley crew of characters caught in the whirlwind of imperfect scenarios, all while stubbornly refusing to sell out. Her writing, unapologetically Indian, pulses with the colors and rhythms of her culture, deftly blending humor and authenticity. LA Weekly spotlighted her unique approach to weaving Indian humor and culture into the American tapestry, celebrating the innovative narrative of Operation Mom. Read the LA Weekly Article here. In her previous life, Reenita was a journalist, editor, and writer for platforms like National Geographic Kids, Disney India, Cartoon Network Asia, the New York Times, CNN, Radio Television Hong Kong, and Bloomberg. Her awards and accolades include the Eric Hoffer Book Award, IndieReader Discovery Award, Santa Barbara International Screenplay Award, Script2Comic, Launchpad, and Emerging Screenwriters awards, and Sundance Institute Development Slate second rounder. No one-trick pony though, she's the brains behind two podcasts: the True Fiction Project (where reality takes a nose dive into the scripted world) and Shadow Realm (a magical portal to riveting narrative fiction). Dive headfirst into her world fantastical tales, and laugh-out-loud moments at http://www.reenita.com. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Season 4 Indian Artists Mashup | 18 Jun 2024 | 00:22:54 | |
Welcome to this week’s True Fiction Project Podcast. During this episode we are highlighting guests from my homeland, India. First you will hear poetry titled Sea Link, My Place and The Kohinoor, Mughal Sequence, written and read by Anand Thakore about life and letting go. Next, you will hear an excerpt from the story Toddy Trails, written by yours truly, about the adventures of a baker who ran out of yeast and must find a replacement. Lastly, you will enjoy an excerpt from My Voice, written and read by Priya Subberwal, which tells of her learning about being adopted. All three are wonderful, don’t forget to tune in to the original episodes linked in the show notes. IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Fiction Credits: Sea Link, My Place, and The Kohinoor, Mughal Sequence by Anand Thakore Poetry written and read by Anand Thakore Anand Thakore's Facebook | Anand Thakore's Website | Poetry International Website Toddy Trails Short story written by Reenita Hora inspired by Avinash Martin’s story Chef Avinash Martins' Instagram | Chef Avinash Martins' Facebook My Voice Excerpt written and read by Priya Subberwal Dishas Consulting Website | Priya Subberwal's Instagram | Priya Subberwal's Facebook RESOURCES Season 4 - Episode 12: The Kohinoor, Mughal Sequence Season 4 - Episode 6: Toddy Trails Season 4 - Episode 9: Masala Movie Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Season 4 Fantasy Authors Mashup | 04 Jun 2024 | 00:20:45 | |
Welcome to this week’s True Fiction Project Podcast. During this special episode, we are mashing up two fantasy fiction author interviews and true fiction pieces from season 4! These episodes include Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity and New Rock, New Role. Both stories have unique plots and are sure to make you laugh! Tune in today to hear interview snippets and full story stories from each episode! Find the link to the full episode in the notes below. IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Fiction Credits: Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity A short story written and read by: Daniel Finkel Daniel Finkel's Personal Facebook Page | Daniel Finkel's Instagram | Trailer for the Audiobook New Rock, New Role A short story written and read by: Richard Sparks Richard Spark's Website | Richard Spark's Facebook | Richard Spark's Instagram | Buy New Rock New Role Fantasy Novel Today! RESOURCES Season 4 - Episode 8: Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity Season 4 - Episode 5: New Rock, New Role Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Revisited - Faking the Grade | 21 May 2024 | 00:35:51 | |
In this revisited episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast, actor, writer, and stand up comedian Shenuque Tissera shares his story of how he went from a Doctor of Geography to a Stand Up Comedian. He talks about the expectations his parents had of him after immigrating to the US, and his fear of disappointing them as he faked his graduation and dropped out of graduate school. We hear all about the Art of Killin' It and the other projects he is currently working on. The episode ends with the short story titled, Faking the Grade by Michael Kobzik. In this story we follow an aspiring stand up comedian who officially drops out from becoming a Doctor of Geography but still shows up at his graduation to receive a fake diploma to appease his unaware parents.
IN THIS EPISODE:
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Fiction Credits: Excerpt written by: Michael Kobsik Excerpt narrated by:
BIO: Shenuque is an actor, writer, and stand-up comedian. He portrays 'Jaylen' in the theatrical production of the Art of Killin' It. He's been featured on HBO Max's Human By Orientation. He is also the voice of Yaksha Rah on the Twenty Sided Podcast. You can find him @shenuque on Instagram or @fakeshenuque on TikTok. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Revisited - Operation Mom Book Launch | 07 May 2024 | 00:41:43 | |
In this revisited episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast, Traci DeForge, Founder and CEO of Produce Your Podcast, is back on the podcast as we talk about Reenita’s book, Operation Mom: My Plan to Get My Mother a Life and a Man. Reenita’s publisher, Dr. Morissa Schwartz joins the conversation as well. Dr. Schwartz is the Founder and CEO of Dr. Rissy’s Writing & Marketing and GenZ Publishing, LLC and was named to Forbes 30 Under 30 list. They talk about current trends in publishing and how Dr. Schwartz is making strides to increase diversity and representation among writers. They discuss the power of strong female characters and cultural representation in modern fiction and later in the episode, Reenita shares a short excerpt from her book, Operation Mom: My Plan to Get My Mother a Life and a Man.
IN THIS EPISODE:
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Fiction Credits: An excerpt from Operation Mom - My Plan to Get My Mother a Life and a Man written and read by: Reenita Hora https://www.facebook.com/ReenitaMalhotraHora https://www.linkedin.com/in/reenita/
BIO: Morissa is one of Forbes 30 Under 30 in Media for 2022. Dr. Morissa Schwartz is the Founder and CEO of Dr. Rissy’s Writing & Marketing and GenZ Publishing, LLC. Dr.RissysWriting.com is a marketing and writing company ranked #1 in PR and in the top ten in Social Media and SEO for New York and New Jersey on Thumbtack. GenZ Publishing is a publishing company that has produced 15 Amazon bestsellers. Dr. Rissy has been featured on Forbes, MTV, and is a bestselling author herself. She speaks professionally about inspiring others through words and entrepreneurship and was named the “Voice of Generation Z” by Community magazine. Dr. Rissy is a contributor for Entrepreneur magazine. She holds a doctorate in Literature from Drew University and has a Master’s in Communications.
Dr. Morissa Schwartz on Facebook
Dr. Morissa Schwartz on LinkedIn Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Revisited - Jerusalem Road with Simone Yehuda | 23 Apr 2024 | 00:27:25 | |
Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast. This week we are revisiting an episode that was recorded October 12, 2023 to mark the October 2023 events between Israel and Hamas, marking the most significant escalation of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict in several decades.
With the heaviness in the world still today and the events playing out in Israel and the Gaza strip, I introduce a story brought to audiences through playwright, poet and screenwriter, Simone Yehuda. Simone discusses her screenplay, Jerusalem Road, which has wild synchronicity between the storyline and what is happening between the Israelis and Palestinians right now. Simone talks about why it is so important to release her screenplay right now. She shares the history of both the Israelis and Palestinians feeling that home is the same place, and the barriers that are at stake. We then hear a scene from Simone’s screenplay, Jerusalem Road. The scene compares and contrasts the years of suffering the two character groups, Palestinians and Jews, have faced and how both groups were forced into exile.
IN THIS EPISODE:
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Fiction Credits: Excerpt written by: Simone Yehuda
BIO: Simone Naomi Yehuda was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts to a German Jewish Holocaust survivor and French Catholic mother whose own mother was a leader of the French Resistance. Writing became her cure for massive psychic trauma. She began as a published poet (two books: THAW and LIFTING WATER) and multi-produced playwright (including a play, WILLING, Off Broadway). While in New York, she played the flute with the New York Symphony and was a member of the Mass Transit Dance Company. Simone began writing screenplays full-time ten years ago hoping to reach a wider audience. She now writes feature screenplays that include JERUSALEM ROAD, THE NEW EVE, LOVE AND HOMICIDE, THE THIRD MOTHER, THE SIG OF A FREE MAN and MATADORA! Her scripts focus on the reconciliation of opposites divided by insurmountable barriers where survival and identity are at stake. Simone’s adult twin daughters, physician Valerie Gabriella Press and psychologist/artist Corinna Nicole Press, live in Chicago and San Francisco respectively. She lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan with her historian husband Barry Michael Shapiro. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S4 Ep 12 - The Kohinoor, Mughal Sequence: In Conversation with Anand Thakore | 09 Apr 2024 | 00:35:16 | |
In the last episode of season 4 of the True Fiction Project, I am honored to welcome the amazing Anand Thakore. I’ve known Anand since we were in school together, and it has been incredible to see his journey and learn of his success as an Anglophone Poet and Hindustani Classical Musician. During this episode we reminisce on some of our school experiences and share stories. Then we dive in to learn what Anand is up to now, while he shares his latest projects. We hear an excerpt of music and a poem from Deepankar Khiwani, titled Cathedral. Anand shares his experience working with Deepankar and how their work together inspired him to start writing poetry again. The episode goes on to include three original pieces by Anand Thakore titled Sea Link, My Place and Mughal Sequence. Tune in for this entertaining episode! IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Fiction Credits: Poems below written and narrated by: Anand Thakore
Cathedral Poem: Written by Deepankar Khiwani and narrated by Anand Thakore The Cathedral & John Connon School Anand’s song at end of episode:
Anand's other works and information: De Kooning's Smile: Collected Poems youtube interview and reading at book launch Anand Thakore introduces you to 'In Praise of Bone' ( video) _THE-KOH-I-NOOR, Poetry International , Anand Thakore BIO: Born in Mumbai in 1971, Anand Thakore grew up in India and in the United Kingdom. He has spent most of his life in Mumbai. His published collections of poetry include In Praise of Bone (2023), Waking In December (2001), Elephant Bathing (2012), Mughal Sequence (2012), and Seven Deaths and Four Scrolls (2017). A Hindustani classical vocalist by training, he has devoted much of his life to the study, performance, composition and teaching of Hindustani vocal music. He received musical instruction for many years from Ustad Aslam Khan, Pandit Baban Haldankar and Pandit Satyasheel Deshpande. He is the founder of Harbour Line, a publishing collective, and of Kshitij, an interactive forum for musicians. He holds an MA in English Literature and is the recipient of grants from The Ministry of Human Resource Development and The Charles Wallace India Trust. He lives in Mumbai and divides his time between writing, performances, and teaching music. His fourth collection of verse, entitled Seven Deaths and Four Scrolls, was recently shortlisted for The Jayadeva National Poetry Award. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S4 Ep 11 - Memories of the Alhambra: In Conversation with Pablo Sáinz-Villegas | 26 Mar 2024 | 00:22:33 | |
Music is a way for everyone to connect, no matter where they come from or what their beliefs are. Today’s guest Pablo Sáinz-Villegas is on the True Fiction Project Podcast to talk about why music and Spanish guitar is the perfect vehicle for storytelling. He discusses the difference between the guitar and Spanish guitar, and how even though they all may have the same six strings, and the same tuning, they all offer something different. He shares his stories of working with other musicians and how storytelling comes out of each piece, whether working alone or collaborating with others. Tune in and close your eyes to enjoy the piece Recuerdos de la Alhambra (Memories of Alhambra in English) by the Spanish composer Franciso Tarrega at the end of the episode. IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Fiction Credits: First song: Recuerdos de la Alhambra by the Spanish composer Franciso Tarrega Second song: Asturias (Leyenda) - Isaac Albéniz. Pablo Sainz-Villegas. LIVE at Teatro Mayor, Colombia https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EowSRVAp8rM
BIO: Sainz-Villegas is the "global ambassador of the Spanish guitar" (Billboard Magazine), a star who has brought classical music to millions of people from the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium to a floating stage on the Amazon River or Carnegie Hall in New York. He has been the first guitarist in 38 years to perform at the Philharmonie with the Berlin Philharmonic under Kirill Petrenko. In addition, he has collaborated with artists such as John Williams, Yo-Yo Ma and played for world leaders as the Dalai Lama. Thanks to his charity work Pablo Sainz-Villegas has also been able to bring access to classical music to tens of thousands of children in Spain, Mexico and the United States. Pablo Saniz Villegas' Personal Facebook Pablo Saniz Villegas' Instagram Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S4 Ep 10 - Wondrous Experiences | 12 Mar 2024 | 00:26:06 | |
After experiencing a tragic bicycle accident, Mark Berridge spent a year getting his health back. He then decided to write a story to inspire others to keep pushing a little bit further, because they are stronger than they think. This week on the True Fiction Project, Mark Berridge joins Reenita to talk about his accident, and what led him to write his nonfiction book, A Fraction Stronger. Mark discusses future work that he hopes to accomplish, shifting from a nonfiction author to a fiction author, and hopefully one day to playwriting. We then hear an excerpt from the short story, Wondrous Experiences, where a man takes a trip and allows himself to experience it from a new perspective, seeing how the world is truly vibrant and full of possibility. IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Fiction Credits: Story written by: Mark Berridge Story narrated by: Mark Berridge BIO: Mark Berridge has broad experience in negotiation, marketing, strategy and transformation. His most prominent corporate role was the Chief Negotiator for Rio Tinto Iron Ore from 2012 to 2015 where he led the pricing strategy for revenue worth USD20 billion. Mark always enjoyed finding high value in complex situations. In March 2019 he became his own subject matter when a bicycle crash changed his life forever. Mark fractured 2 vertebrae and heard the devastating words spinal cord injury. He spent 7 weeks in hospital and 9 months in full time rehabilitation regaining the ability to walk. He will strive to maintain and improve his mobility all his remaining life. Mark now writes and speaks about the impacts of disruption and how we can fight our way forward from almost any situation. His inspirational award-winning book A Fraction Stronger was released in the USA September 2022. Mark Berridge's Personal Facebook Page Mark Berridge's Business Facebook Page Mark Berridge's Instagram Page Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S4 Ep 9 - Masala Movie | 27 Feb 2024 | 00:27:05 | |
Learning about her adoption at age 21 was quite impactful for Priya Subberwal, along with the lack of conversation that her adoptive parents had with her afterwards regarding her biological family. Today, I am honored to have Priya join the True Fiction Project, she is a long time friend of mine, and is a wonderful storyteller. We start the episode discussing her business, Disha Limited, where she helps people set their homes up for the best energy through Feng Shui work. She talks about how to utilize the evergreen elements of Feng Shui as well as what to prioritize for 2024. We then get to hear the story of how Priya found out she was adopted, and what that was like to find out as an adult. Priya reads an excerpt from her story, Masala Movie, in the book, My Voice about what she uncovered through the process of trying to find her biological parents and how she brought closure to herself. IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Fiction Credits: Story written by: Priya Subberwal Story narrated by: Priya Subberwal BIO: Priya Subberwal is a qualified Classical Feng Shui practitioner. A trained interior designer, her interest in Chinese Metaphysics was sparked by a chance look through at a coffee table book on the subject in 2000. After extensive reading on the subject, she formally started studying in 2007 and applying it to her daily life. Friends and family too gained from her knowledge and fascination. Priya aims to bring focus and stability to the lives of others. In 2016 she formed the company 'Disha' which comes from the Sanskrit word ‘Dishadhara’ meaning direction - something that she strives to give her clients. Priya is a yoga enthusiast and an avid reader. She lives in Hong Kong with her banker husband and a dog. She is a mother of two adult daughters, who love giving her unsolicited fashion and make-up advice. Interestingly, she previously co-owned a cricket team “Kowloon Cantons” in Hong Kong and has co- authored an Amazon bestseller novel #my voice -A collective memoir by women of substance. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S4 Ep 8 - Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity | 05 Feb 2024 | 00:30:31 | |
What would it be like to experience a 26 mile dinner party? Today, on the True Fiction Project, I am joined by author and screenwriter, Daniel Finkel. Daniel shares with us his story Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity, how it came about, and the adventure he has taken to write this story and get it out to the public. He talks about other screenplays he has written and what his next steps are for this adventurous story. Daniel discusses what it was like growing up in L.A. and Hollywood and how his experience may have differed from others. At the end of the show, we hear a chapter titled The Dinner Party from Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity where the characters explore through a 26 mile long underground dinner party. Tune in to hear more of this insane story! IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/ Fiction Credits: Story written by: Daniel Finkel Story narrated by: Daniel Finkel BIO: I moved to LA to work in the entertainment industry, where I learned I didn't want to work in the entertainment industry. But I got to read screenplays by writers with big agents that were horrible. So I started to write my own screenplays that were also horrible. And it worked! I started to option and sell them… eventually selling the biggest piece of crap I ever wrote to MGM. But then my brain literally went on strike. I was supposed to write this script with a big time commercial producer and I literally couldn't think of anything. My brain forced me to write only ideas that I was passionate about. So I co-wrote and directed my first feature film Everything Will Happen Before You Die. The cast was amazing and I got to direct major league talent like Academy Award Nominee John Hawkes and Marc Boone Junior (Sons of Anarchy). It was a dream come true. However, there's a big missing part of this story… MUSIC. It all started when my roommate asked me to be his vocal sidekick in this rave rock psychedelic lounge funk band called The Serotonins. The idea was I would be a cow and he would be the farmer. Well, he never dressed as a farmer, thus The Mad Cow was born. I became a bit of a counter-culture hero in the Burningman scene and played to packed clubs for years. And TODAY… I'm beyond excited to have published my award winning debut comedy/satire/sci-fi novel MR. TAFFLE'S PANTS OF INSANITY. It's an incredible feeling to have written my first book but even more of an incredible feeling to know that I'll be writing them for the rest of my life. And now we just released the audiobook which I couldn't be more excited about how it turned out. Oh and yes… the MUSIC. A couple of pals and I wrote an EP of songs based on the novel. I will be performing this at bookstores and weird stages all over North America (to start.) Daniel Finkel's Personal Facebook Page Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S6 Ep 7 - Conversations with Good Men | 23 Jan 2024 | 00:21:46 | |
Raised as an evangelical Christian, Bethel Swift started her dating journey late in life, after realizing that God was not going to drop the right guy in her lap. Throughout her three part book, Conversations with Good Men, Bethel shares poems of her experience as a daughter and then about her dating life. In this episode, you will hear what propelled Bethel to turn her personal experiences into a story, and what she found along the way. Bethel then reads two of her poems, the first called The Artist Takes Herself on a Date, which represents her journey of becoming a strong version of herself and the lessons she learned. The second poem, Potpourri Rain, is about her experience with sexual assault from someone close to her, which sent a chill down my spine. Tune in to learn more about Bethel’s dating journey Trigger Warning: Sexual Assault IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/ Fiction Credits: Poems written by: Bethel Swift Poems narrated by: Bethel Swift BIO: Bethel Swift is a San Diego based artist, poet, indie publisher, workshop instructor, professional home organizer, and the author of Conversations with Good Men (2020, Swift & Sparrow Press). Bethel's poetry has been published in Armenian Poetry Project, Haiku Journal, San Diego Poetry Annual, and Expressions from Englewood as well as exhibited at Columbia College Chicago. In 2017, Bethel was the recipient of an AWP Writer to Writer Mentorship with poet Sandy Coomer (Available Light). Prior to that, she studied poetry under Kristina Marie Darling (Dark Horse) and Larry Sawyer (Vertigo Diary) at the Chicago School of Poetics and with Martha Vertreace-Doody (Glacier Fire) at Kennedy-King College. Bethel earned her degree in journalism from Columbia College Chicago (in 2007) and her journalistic features, interviews, reviews, and opinion pieces have appeared in multiple print and web publications. Bethel Swift's Personal Facebook Page Bethel Swift's Business Facebook Page Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S4 Ep 6 - Toddy Trails | 09 Jan 2024 | 00:34:59 | |
Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast. Today we feature Chef Avanish Martins. Avanish discusses how his restaurant, Cavatina, came to be and how he made the decision to focus on Goan cuisine. He discusses what “toddy trappers” are and why their skill is so essential to Goan food. Avinash describes how he tells stories through his cuisine and the beautiful way he ties the culture in by plating his food. We learn how the coconut and tree are used in the Goa Culture, and how Pader Pader Ponk Ponk was used to wake up the town. Toddy Trails the fiction piece from this episode takes us along the journey of a local baker who’s yeast has been ruined, risking a critical order he needed to fill. A friend encourages him to use toddy to replace the yeast, and after many attempts he nails down a successful recipe, only to have his rolls of bread stolen. Tune in to hear how the story ends! IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/ Fiction Credits: Excerpt written by: Reenita Hora Excerpt narrated by using AI BIO: Chef Avinash Martins has got the humble Goan cuisine to an international level with farm to table practices and traditional cooking methods but presented it in a modern flair Chef Avinash Martins' Instagram Chef Avinash Martins' Facebook Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S4 Ep 5 - New Rock New Role | 19 Dec 2023 | 00:25:59 | |
Richard Sparks has been successful in so much of his work from writing The Schoolmaster, performed by Rowan Atkinson, to aiding an opera singer to launch her career. The one area he couldn’t seem to get into was fiction writing, until now that is. On today’s episode, I am so excited to have writer and author Richard Sparks on the show to discuss his prior pieces of work as well as his new fantasy novel! Richard shares what it was like to work with John Cleese, Rowan Atkinson, and others. At the end of the episode, we hear a clip from his new fantasy story, New Rock New Role that talks about a man who gets sucked into a video game and is trying to understand how he got there. This is Richard’s take on how it would feel to be a character in one of the games that he frequently plays. The clip we hear is from early on in the book and series, and there is more to come! Grab a free audio book chapter and ebook chapter or buy the full novel released December 12 on his website - www.richardsparks.com! IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/ Fiction and Schoolmaster Credits: Excerpt written by: Richard Sparks Excerpt narrated by: Richard Sparks Schoolmaster Clip performed by: Rowan Atkinson Schoolmaster Clio written by Richard Sparks BIO: Born in England, and a graduate of Oxford University (Exeter College, where, like both JRR Tolkien and Philip Pullman before him, he read English), Richard started out as a writer of stage plays, comedy revues and TV, for such shows as Not the Nine o’clock News. Rowan Atkinson performed his Schoolmaster sketch in John Cleese’s The Secret Policeman’s Ball. UK TV credits include The Famous Five, The Flying Kiwi, The Optimist, The Worst of Hollywood, and a lot of script editing. On being hired by Columbia Pictures TV, Richard moved with his family to Los Angeles. His lyrics have been recorded by talents as diverse as Dom de Luise, Eric Idle, Vanessa Williams and Plácido Domingo. He has written libretti for several new operas composed by Lee Holdridge (TV’s Beauty and the Beast, et al.), produced by the LA Opera, as well writing new English versions of German and Italian classics. His non-fiction books, Diary of a Mad Poker Player, and its sequel, Getting Lucky, chronicle his adventures in the poker boom of the 2000’s. Along the Cherry Lane is his biography of the music producer, Milt Okun. “High Adventure Spiced with Low Comedy,” inspired by his love of online role-playing games, New Rock New Role is the first of four volumes Richard has written so far in the New Rock fantasy series, and is his fiction debut. Buy New Rock New Role Fantasy Novel Today! Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S4 Ep 4 - Storms From a Clear Sky | 07 Dec 2023 | 00:31:54 | |
Denise has an incredible skill of turning the truth of WWII into a fiction book that people will both learn the history from while also finding the story engaging and entertaining. An award winning writer, teacher, actress, director and producer, Denise is a wealth of knowledge, and I am so grateful to have her back on the show. She shares why America and the world has such a fascination with spies and then dives into how spies helped lead Japan to their attack on Pearl Harbor, 82 years ago today. Denise discusses why she chose to write fiction vs. nonfiction and how she used her research to create such an engaging story. She then reads an excerpt from her story Storms From a Clear Sky where the Americans realize that they’ve been assisting a Japanese spy all along. IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/ Fiction Credits: Excerpt written by: Denise Frisino Excerpt narrated by: Denise Frisino BIO: A Seattle native, Denise Frisino, is an award-winning writer, teacher, actress, director, and producer. Whiskey Cove, her first novel, a fast-paced who done it, centers around Prohibition in the Northwest. Next came Orchids of War and Storms From A Clear Sky, both finalists in numerous national competitions, including 1st place for the Hemingway Book Award for 20th Century Wartime Fiction. When researching for these historical fictions, Denise spent over 10 years interviewing 50 men and women from the WWII era. She weaves the experiences of those she interviewed into her story about Japanese espionage along the West Coast prior to WWII, then follows the same characters throughout the war. She is currently working on the last book in the Orchids Trilogy and the movie script for Whiskey Cove Her blogs and YouTube channel contain some of the WWII veteran interviews and she has just launched a new web www.wwiiinterviews.com. Denise has stood atop 5 mountain peaks over 14,000 feet, lived aboard one of the old Mosquito Fleet boats on Lake Union, and drank scotch with Katharine Hepburn. She enjoys being on the water and loves her rowboat. Denise and her husband continue to enjoy the many facets of the Pacific Northwest. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S4 Ep 3 - Relationship With a View | 28 Nov 2023 | 00:30:55 | |
Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast. Today I am joined by writer, podcaster and CEO of Tulla Productions, Nicole Christie. Nicole is a fabulous storyteller and helps others both in the corporate world and entrepreneurs to master their storytelling skills. She talks about her podcast, Here for Me, which highlights badassery stories from people who have gone through difficult situations and persevered to the other side. Nicole discusses why storytelling is so important, and then walks us through the premise of Relationship with a View. She then reads her short story, Relationship with a View, about a woman who meets a man in the elevator of her apartment complex and they hit it off right away but their relationship takes a sudden turn. Tune in to hear more of her story! IN THIS EPISODE: [2:41] Nicole shares about her podcast all about choosing yourself, and what that means. [4:14] What is Tulla Productions and how does she help brands? [7:19] What does storytelling look like for a notable person that hires Tulla Productions? [9:20] Why is storytelling so important? [11:06] Nicole shares the premise of Relationship with a View. [21:20] A short story, Relationship with a View by Nicole Christie. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Social media highlights all the good things happening in people’s lives, but misses an opportunity for genuine connection. Storytelling is what lights up the threads of continuity between humans. The more that our stories are raw, candid and vulnerable, the more genuinely connect with each other. Many people go through hard moments, but they are able to come out on the other side with healing and a fresh outlook. Nicole’s podcast showcases guests from all walks of life that share their story. Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/ Fiction Credits: Excerpt written by: Nicole Christie Excerpt narrated by: Nicole Christie BIO: Nicole is a writer, podcaster, and entrepreneur. She’s the founder and CEO of Tulla Productions—a storytelling studio that connects leading brands and notable people with their audience through human-centered audio, visual, and print stories—and the creator and host of Here For Me, a podcast about the power of choosing yourself. She has been a storyteller since she could string words together and it’s her passion to bring tales of courage, impact, and utter badassery to life! Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S4 Ep 2 - Thrillville USA | 14 Nov 2023 | 00:23:07 | |
Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast. This week we have Taylor Koekkoek on the show, who is the author of the short stories series, Thrillville USA. Taylor talks to us about the inspiration behind the short stories and how pieces of the stories are pulled from his life. He talks about how he included Oregon’s opioid crisis into the story and why he felt it was relevant. Then we learn what is next for Taylor as far as future projects he is working on. At the end of the episode, he reads us an excerpt from the first story of the Thrillville USA series, where we follow a character finishing his shift at the amusement park and the scandalous scene he stumbles upon behind the back side of the Scrambler. IN THIS EPISODE: [3:18] What is Thrillville USA? [4:40] Why did Taylor decide to name his book series after Thrillville? [6:29] What was the inspiration behind Thrillville USA? [7:51] How Taylor tackles the subject of Oregon’s opioid crisis and is it discussed in all the short stories? [11:12] Taylor tells us about the excerpt he is going to read to us. [13:28] What future works will we see from Taylor? [15:55] An excerpt from the first book of the Thrillville USA series by Taylor Koekkoek KEY TAKEAWAYS: [3:19] Thrillville used to be a little roadside amusement park outside of Oregon that felt like a little bit of a death trap with rides that bucked in ways that didn’t seem natural. Many rumors about fatalities and bodily harm were told about the amusement park, but they are believed to be false. [6:29] Thrillville USA was inspired by an amusement park that Taylor and his brothers visited from time to time when they were younger. The characters are not based on people he knew directly during his childhood, but instead pieced together from stories he heard from other people that he met. [10:03] There is an unintentional metaphor between the amusement park and drug use, being a dangerous activity that is also ominous, fun and exciting. Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/ Fiction Credits: Excerpt written by: Taylor Koekkoek Excerpt narrated by: Taylor Koekkoek BIO: Taylor Koekkoek received his MFA from Johns Hopkins University. His work has been supported by Oregon Literary Arts, the Breadloaf’s Writer’s Conference, the University of Wisconsin, Madison, and has appeared in Paris Review, Glimmer Train, Ploughshares, The Iowa Review, online at Tin House, and elsewhere. His short story collection, Thrillville, USA, was published by Simon & Schuster in 2023. He lives in Portland, Oregon, with his wife, Joselyn Takacs, also a writer. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Season 3 - Public Speaker and Comedians Mashup | 31 Oct 2023 | 00:27:36 | |
Welcome to this week’s True Fiction Project Podcast. During this episode, we are mashing up the public speaker and comedian interviews and true fiction pieces from season 3! These episodes include: How to Human 101, Brought Together by Bagels, and Faking the Grade. Each interview and story has something unique to share, ranging from an alien learning to read human body language and facial expressions to an unlikely set of neighbors who bond over bagel preferences, to a doctor turned comedian who fakes his graduation. Tune in today to hear interview snippets and full story stories from each episode! Find the link to the full episode in the notes below. IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: How to Human 101 A short story written and read by: Parker James Parker Hicks LinkedIn | Parker Hicks Twitter Brought Together by Bagels Short story written by Gastor Almonte, Read by Kristen Udowitz Gastor Almonte's Website | The War Report Podcast | Gastor Almonte's Facebook | Gastor Almonte Twitter | Gastor Almonte Instagram | Story Collider Website Faking the Grade Short story written and read by: Michael Kobzik Shenuque Tissera Website | The Twenty Sided Podcast | Shenuque Tissera's Twitter Shenuque Tissera's Instagram | Shenuque Tissera's TikTok Resources: S3 EP9 Brought Together By Bagels Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S4 Ep 1 - Jerusalem Road | 19 Oct 2023 | 00:27:25 | |
Welcome to the start of season 4 of the True Fiction Project Podcast. This episode was recorded October 11, 2023 and rushed to release to mark the October 2023 events between Israel and Hamas, marking the most significant escalation of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict in several decades. With the heaviness in the world today and the events playing out in Israel and the Gaza strip, I introduce a particularly timely story brought to audiences through playwright, poet and screenwriter, Simone Yehuda. Simone discusses her screenplay, Jerusalem Road, which has wild synchronicity between the storyline and what is happening between the Israelis and Palestinians right now. Simone talks about why it is so important to release her screenplay right now. She shares the history of both the Israelis and Palestinians feeling that home is the same place, and the barriers that are at stake. We then hear a scene from a table read of Simone’s screenplay, Jerusalem Road. The scene compares and contrasts the years of suffering the two character groups, Palestinians and Jews, have faced and how both groups were forced into exile. IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/ Fiction Credits: Excerpt written by: Simone Yehuda BIO: Simone Naomi Yehuda was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts to a German Jewish Holocaust survivor and French Catholic mother whose own mother was a leader of the French Resistance. Writing became her cure for massive psychic trauma. She began as a published poet (two books: THAW and LIFTING WATER) and multi-produced playwright (including a play, WILLING, Off Broadway). While in New York, she played the flute with the New York Symphony and was a member of the Mass Transit Dance Company. Simone began writing screenplays full-time ten years ago hoping to reach a wider audience. She now writes feature screenplays that include JERUSALEM ROAD, THE NEW EVE, LOVE AND HOMICIDE, THE THIRD MOTHER, THE SIG OF A FREE MAN and MATADORA! Her scripts focus on the reconciliation of opposites divided by insurmountable barriers where survival and identity are at stake. Simone’s adult twin daughters, physician Valerie Gabriella Press and psychologist/artist Corinna Nicole Press, live in Chicago and San Francisco respectively. She lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan with her historian husband Barry Michael Shapiro. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Season 2 - Actors and Musicians Mashup | 10 Oct 2023 | 00:31:16 | |
Welcome to this week’s True Fiction Project Podcast. During this special episode, we are mashing up the actors and musicians interviews and true fiction pieces from season 2! These episodes include: A Good Samaritan, The Night That Dancing Saved By Life, and The Garden of Earthly Delights. Each interview and story has something unique to share, ranging from a woman who lived in a cult, a man who danced himself away from some serious dangers to a couple who show up to defend the Lord. Tune in today to hear interview snippets and full story stories from each episode! Find the link to the full episode in the notes below. IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Fiction Credits: A Good Samaritan A short story written and read by: Beth Hennessy HOME | Kalliah | Kalliah Music Facebook | Kalliah Music Twitter | Kalliah Music Instagram The Night That Dancing Saved My Life Short story written and read by: Anand Bhatt Anand Bhatt’s Spotify | Rock Star Recipes TV Show on Amazon | Anand Bhatt’s Facebook | Anand Bhatt’s Twitter | Anand Bhatt’s Instagram The Garden of Earthly Delights Short story written and read by: Parker James Parker James Twitter | Parker James Linkedin Resources: S2 EP 11 Good Samaratian Full Epsiode S2 EP 13 The Night The Dancing Saved My Life S2 EP 8 The Garden of Earthly Delights Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Revisited – The Don Of The Southern Boundary with Les Bird | 27 Sep 2023 | 00:35:04 | |
Welcome to this revisited episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast. I have the privilege of speaking with Les Bird about his fascinating history as a Marine Police Officer in 1976 during the Hong Kong Handover. Les has now written two books about his 21 years in the Marines and his work in helping Vietnamese refugees arrive safely in Hong Kong following the end of the Vietnam War. He recounts specific memories of rescuing refugees from hired criminals and pirates and details the less than ideal conditions of travel that so many Vietnamese braved in order to make it to Hong Kong. Also hear a short story based on Les’ Marine adventures called, The Dawn of the Southern Boundary, from Anna Marie Evans.
IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Fiction Credits: Short story written and read by: Anna Marie Evans Contact Information: Anna Marie Evans - hkhradio3@gmail.com BIO: Born in 1951, Les comes from a military family. His father, grandfather and three uncles all served in the Royal Navy, whilst his mother served as a gunner with the Royal Artillery during World War II. Les was the second from his family to serve in Hong Kong. His father was part of the British Royal Navy force that came to Hong Kong in August 1945 at the end of the Japanese military occupation and subsequently helped in the policing of the territory throughout 1946. Les Bird joined the Royal Hong Kong Police in 1976 and worked in the Marine Police for 21 years until June 1997. Bird’s work was diverse – he was a rural inspector of West Lantau and in the early 80s he returned to launch-going duties overseeing the influx of tens of thousands of Vietnamese refugees in the years that followed. During his service, Les commanded three of the five Marine divisions and also headed the SBU, the Marine Fast Pursuit Unit combating cross-border smuggling of people, arms, drugs and luxury cars. After leaving the police in 1997, Les moved into the private sector, working in the security industry across Asia. He is an endurance athlete and has taken part in Ironman events and long-distance triathlons worldwide. He represented Great Britain at the 2009 Ironman World Championship. In 201,1 he swam the English Channel and in 2012, summited Mont Blanc. In 2020, he spoke to a sold-out audience at the Hong Kong International Literary Festival about his memoir “A Small Band of Men: An Englishman’s Adventures in Hong Kong’s Marine Police.” And at the 2021 Festival, he presented photographs and stories from his second book “Along the Southern Boundary: A Marine Police Officer’s Frontline Account of the Vietnamese Boatpeople and their Arrival in Hong Kong.” Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Revisited - True Fiction Favorites: A Case Study on Anna Delvey/Anna Sorokin | 12 Sep 2023 | 00:47:13 | |
In this revisited episode of the True Fiction Project, I speak with Diann Wingert, psychotherapist turned business mindset coach and the host of the Driven Woman Podcast. Why are people so fascinated by Anna Delvey/Anna Sorokin, who bilked her way through the New York social scene? As a psychotherapist, Diann was particularly intrigued by her motivation – what drove this seemingly successful young woman to engage in such fraudulent behavior? Interestingly, much of Anna's motivation can be traced back to her childhood. She was always a bright and imaginative child, but she was also drawn to the finer things in life. This combination of factors likely contributed to her later sense of entitlement and her willingness to take whatever she felt she deserved – even if it meant breaking the law. Tune in as Diann Wingert explains where Anna's personality pathology starts to develop, personality of entrepreneurs vs signs of narcissism, and the real reason audiences like stories where humans are missing morals. Later in the episode, we hear a fictional story written by Parker James. Shifting Weight - A Fictional Story in Print
IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
BIO: Diann Wingert is a psychotherapist turned business mindset coach who serves the growing number of female solopreneurs who struggle with self-employment after successful corporate or nonprofit careers by helping them identify and eliminate the obstacles that hold them back so they can embrace their full potential for success. She is an expert in the mental health challenges of entrepreneurship and how ADHD presents in adult women and entrepreneurs. LINKS: Diann Wingert is a psychotherapist turned business mindset coach who serves the growing number of female solopreneurs. WEBSITE: http://diannwingertcoaching.com/ PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-driven-woman/id1513039926 INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/coachdiannwingert/ LINKED IN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diannwingertcoaching/ Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S3 Ep 12 - Faking the Grade | 29 Aug 2023 | 00:35:51 | |
Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast! This week's episode is the finale for season 3 and we have actor, writer, and stand up comedian Shenuque Tissera on the show to celebrate! Shenuque shares his story of how he went from a Doctor of Geography to a Stand Up Comedian. He talks about the expectations his parents had of him after immigrating to the US, and his fear of disappointing them as he faked his graduation and dropped out of graduate school. We hear all about the Art of Killin' It and the other projects he is currently working on. The episode ends with the short story titled, Faking the Grade by Michael Kobzik. In this story we follow an aspiring stand up comedian who officially drops out from becoming a Doctor of Geography but still shows up at his graduation to receive a fake diploma to appease his unaware parents. IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Fiction Credits: Excerpt written by: Michael Kobsik BIO: Shenuque is an actor, writer, and stand-up comedian. He portrays 'Jaylen' in the theatrical production of the Art of Killin' It. He's been featured on HBO Max's Human By Orientation. He is also the voice of Yaksha Rah on the Twenty Sided Podcast. You can find him @shenuque on Instagram or @fakeshenuque on TikTok. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S3 Ep 11 - The Unbroken Horizon Part 2 | 15 Aug 2023 | 00:23:15 | |
Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast! This week is part 2 from our last episode. During this episode, Jenny Brav discusses her relationship with her father and how she incorporated those experiences in her new book. She talks about finding a “dad box” which held information about her father she never knew since he passed away when she was a child. Jenny talks about the connection with her dad box and her character Sarah’s dad box. She goes on to discuss what she found in the dad box and how she is carrying out his dream of writing, by releasing her book, The Unbroken Horizon, on the anniversary of his death. Tune in to hear an excerpt from The Unbroken Horizon when Sarah discovers her dad box and reveals astonishing information and a possible tie to Auschwitz? IN THIS EPISODE: [2:31] What is a “dad box" and how did finding her dad box tie into her character Sarah finding her dad box? [6:56] Did finding the dad box lead Jenny to delve into the family lineage on Ancestry.com? [11:31] Did Jenny move to the bay area because of her father’s life in San Francisco? [13:51] Jenny shares the details of when her book release and the special reason she chose to release the book on August 15. [15:37] Jenny reads an excerpt from her book, The Unbroken Horizon. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Getting insight into family after you’ve lost them can heal many wounds. Being able to find connections between your life, utilize tools like Ancestry.com can help you piece together your loved ones history and make connections to extended family. The Unbroken Horizon, a novel by Jenny Brav is set to be released on the anniversary of her father’s death. This is to pay tribute to him and the fact that his dream of being a writer never came to fruition. She is bringing her fathers dream to life. Fiction Credits: Excerpt written by: Jenny Brav Excerpt narrated by: Jenny Brav BIO: Jenny Brav was born and raised in Paris, France, to American parents who instilled in her a love of words, a sensitivity to the human condition, and a passion for travel. She did humanitarian work in Asia and the Middle East before settling in Oakland, California, where she practices holistic healing. In her spare time, she writes poetry, dabbles in vegan cooking, chases waterfalls, and caters to her calico cat’s whims. The Unbroken Horizon, winner of a First Place CIBA award in late historical fiction, is her first novel. It brings together the themes that are close to her heart, especially how we find wholeness within our wounding. [One of her main character's journey to heal from her father's sudden death in her childhood, and her exploration to learn more about that lineage, closely mirror Jenny's own experiences.] Jenny Brav’s Personal Facebook Page Radiant Wholeness Healing Facebook Page Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S3 Ep 10 - The Unbroken Horizon Part 1 | 08 Aug 2023 | 00:26:01 | |
Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast! This week I am speaking with author Jenny Brav. She will be releasing her first book, The Unbroken Horizon on August 15, 2023. During this episode, Jenny describes the connection between her own life, where she did humanitarian work for a decade, and her two main characters. Jenny also explains how her humanitarian work led her to a path of holistic healing. Finally, Jenny shares an excerpt of her book, The Unbroken Horizon. In this excerpt, Sarah, one of the main characters, describes in detail with her therapist the moment she found her father dead in their home. Tune in for part 2 of this episode as Jenny discusses her relationship with her father and how she incorporated those experiences in her new book. IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Fiction Credits: Excerpt written by: Jenny Brav Excerpt narrated by: Jenny Brav BIO: Jenny Brav was born and raised in Paris, France, to American parents who instilled in her a love of words, a sensitivity to the human condition, and a passion for travel. She did humanitarian work in Asia and the Middle East before settling in Oakland, California, where she practices holistic healing. In her spare time, she writes poetry, dabbles in vegan cooking, chases waterfalls, and caters to her calico cat’s whims. The Unbroken Horizon, winner of a First Place CIBA award in late historical fiction, is her first novel. It brings together the themes that are close to her heart, especially how we find wholeness within our wounding. [One of her main character's journey to heal from her father's sudden death in her childhood, and her exploration to learn more about that lineage, closely mirror Jenny's own experiences.] Jenny Brav’s Personal Facebook Page Radiant Wholeness Healing Facebook Page Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S3 Ep 9 - Brought Together by Bagels | 25 Jul 2023 | 00:34:13 | |
Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast! This week on the podcast, I have the pleasure of talking to Gastor Almonte. He is a Comedy Central featured comedian and storyteller from Brooklyn NY. Gastor shares his experience being a first generation immigrant, and what it was like having parents who immigrated from the Dominican Republic. He shares the benefits he has because of the struggles that they faced coming to America, and how he still ties back everything he does to his roots. Gastor tells a hilarious story about the time he attended the wrong party and how he learned that he was in fact at the neighbors house instead of his aunts. At the end of the episode, we hear the story Brought Together by Bagels about new neighbors who struggle with garbage responsibility, but ultimately come together over their love of bagels. IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Fiction Credits: Short story written by: Gastor Almonte Short story narrated by: Kristen Udowitz BIO: Gastor Almonte is a comedian and storyteller from Brooklyn, NY (East New York specifically.) He has twice appeared on Comedy Central’s This Is Not Happen, Comedy Central’s Featuring, Vice Live, and the PBS featured Stories From The Stage. His appearance on Stories From The Stage won the 2020 Webby People’s Voice award for Best Individual Performance. Timeout Magazine named him “One of your new comedy obsessions.” His debut album, Immigrant Made, debut at #1 on the iTunes Comedy, Google Play Comedy and Amazon Music Comedy charts. His self-funded independent special, “Immigrant Made”, can be seen on Amazon Prime. He is a producer and board member of the science-storytelling non-profit Story Collider. He is also the producer and co-host of the topical news comedy podcast, The War Report, with co-host Shalewa Sharpe. Currently, Gastor can be seen touring the country and workshoping his one-man show, The Sugar. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S3 Ep 8 - Orchids of War | 11 Jul 2023 | 00:31:51 | |
Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast! On today’s episode we have award-winning writer, teacher, actress, director and producer, Denise Frisino. Denise is currently writing the third book of The Orchid Trilogy which is a series of books sharing stories of wartime fiction. In this episode, she shares what inspired her to write her books and describes the strong women characters that have arisen from her research. Denise tells us about the interviews that she did with WWII heroes and the miracles that fell into place during her research for the books. Denise then reads an excerpt from her book Orchids of War about Billi O’Shaughnessy, a young caucasian woman fluent in Japanese that would be selected to help the US uncover the Nippon spies. IN THIS EPISODE:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Fiction Credits: Short story written by: Denise Frisino Short story narrated by: Denise Frisino BIO: A Seattle native, Denise Frisino, is an award-winning writer, teacher, actress, director, and producer. Whiskey Cove, her first novel, a fast-paced who done it, centers around Prohibition in the Northwest. Next came Orchids of War and Storms From A Clear Sky, both finalists in numerous national competitions, including 1st place for the Hemingway Book Award for 20th Century Wartime Fiction. When researching for these historical fictions, Denise spent over 10 years interviewing 50 men and women from the WWII era. She weaves the experiences of those she interviewed into her story about Japanese espionage along the West Coast prior to WWII, then follows the same characters throughout the war. She is currently working on the last book in the Orchids Trilogy and the movie script for Whiskey Cove Her blogs and YouTube channel contain some of the WWII veteran interviews and she has just launched a new web www.wwiiinterviews.com. Denise has stood atop 5 mountain peaks over 14,000 feet, lived aboard one of the old Mosquito Fleet boats on Lake Union, and drank scotch with Katharine Hepburn. She enjoys being on the water and loves her rowboat. Denise and her husband continue to enjoy the many facets of the Pacific Northwest. Storms From A Clear Sky Book Link Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S3 Ep 7 - Solace in Our Roots | 27 Jun 2023 | 00:35:29 | |
Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast! On today’s episode, I am joined by Bobby Singh Bansal. He is a British born historian, author, documentary filmmaker who has a focus on the history of the Sikh community and their relations over the generations with the British. Bobby is so passionate about carrying on the traditions and culture of the Punjab, as the history is a mystery for many. Bobby discusses his book, The Punjab Chiefs, and shares a story that stood out the most to him during his research. At the end of the episode, we hear a short story titled Solace in Our Roots, written by Trent Davis and narrated by Kristen Udowitz. In this story we follow a young British born Sikh girl who is lost and confused about her Sikh heritage until a friendly stranger decides to educate her about the Sikh culture and religion. IN THIS EPISODE: [2:23] What does Bobby Singh Bansal’s work focus on? [4:20] What happened in 1984 in India? [6:35] What is the book Punjab Chiefs about? [13:30] Bobby Bansal shares one story that stood out to him during his Punjab research. [20:30] Why was the Maharaja Ranjit Singh so powerful? Why couldn't the British penetrate it? [24:37] What is the difference between religious and political groups working together vs. apart? [27:34] A short story, Solace in Our Roots, written by Trent Davis and voiced by Kristen Udowtiz KEY TAKEAWAYS: In 1984 in India, a radical group of Sikhs entered the Golden Temple and took shelter there. The Indian government sent in an army and completely destroyed the temple while killing many people across a span of 3-4 days. The Maharaja were incredibly generous and kind. They gave out incredible relics and gifts and were so welcoming to all. So much history from the Punjab has been lost along the way, where many people don’t realize their heritage or culture. There is so much to learn there. Bobby Singh Bansal’s book illustrates pictures and stories of many families in order to carry on their legacy. Fiction Credits: Short story written by: Trent Davis Short story narrated by: Kristen Udowitz BIO: Bobby Singh Bansal is a British-born Sikh historian, writer and filmmaker. His interest in Sikh Heritage and Culture has allowed him to interact with the Sikh diaspora all over the world. He has attended major International Sikh and Indian conferences and has given numerous lectures on the theme of Sikh Heritage and History. A passionate advocate of promoting Sikh Heritage and Culture on a global scale, especially in Pakistan, in 2003 he became President of the Sarkar Khalsa Foundation, and has worked on the restoration of the tomb of Maharaja Sher Singh in Lahore. Abstract: An important facet of Sikh history is the presence of several monuments and other architectural structures in the parts of Punjab that are in modern-day Pakistan. The SK Foundation has been working to create awareness about the need for the preservation of these structures. This presentation deals with one such initiative that aims to enhance the Sikh legacy in the area. The Punjab Chiefs by Bobby Singh Bansal Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S3 EP 6 - The Haul Bag | 13 Jun 2023 | 00:33:14 | |
Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast! Today I have Ann Bancroft with me on the show, one of the world's preeminent polar explorers and an internationally recognized leader who is dedicated to inspiring women and girls around the world to unleash the power of their dreams. Ann was the first woman to participate in and successfully finish expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctic. She shares her journey to becoming an explorer and how she followed her passion to find her purpose in life. Ann recalls some wonderful stories about her experience traveling across both North and South Poles and what she learned about life along the way. At the end of the episode, listen to a short story written by Parker James about a woman who takes her life in her hands and embarks on a dangerous expedition in the Swiss Alps named, The Haul Bag. IN THIS EPISODE: [1:36] Ann tells us about her travels across the Antarctic. [3:23] How did Ann’s desire to explore and travel come about? [5:30] What drove Ann’s desire to explore the poles? What was Ann’s purpose for those trips? [8:30] What did being the first woman at the top of the world feel like? What did it awake inside of Ann? [10:22] What does Ann learn and teach about while out on expeditions? [14:22] Ann tells us a story that puts her expeditions and experience into context. [21:11] A short story, The Haul Bag, written and read by Parker James. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Following your passion and purpose allows you to discover what’s out there and there is the potential of falling into living by design. Stories draw us together as humans, the common elements to our story will bring stories back from others and we can receive that connection. The journey’s we take in life are about no one other than ourselves. So much self discovery can come from the experience. Added bonus when you come back from the life changing experience and can share the story and learnings with others. Fiction Credits: Short story written and read by: Parker James BIO: Ann Bancroft is one of the world's preeminent polar explorers and an internationally recognized leader who is dedicated to inspiring women and girls around the world to unleash the power of their dreams. Through her various roles as an explorer, educator, sought-after speaker and philanthropist, Ann believes that by sharing stories related to her dreams of outdoor adventure, she can help inspire a global audience to pursue their individual dreams. Ann's teamwork and leadership skills have undergone severe tests during her polar expeditions and provided her with opportunities to shatter female stereotypes. The tenacity and courage that define her character have earned Ann worldwide recognition as one of today's most influential role models for women and girls. She has been named among Glamour magazine's "Women of the Year" (2001); featured in the book Remarkable Women of the Twentieth Century (1998); inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame (1995); named Ms. magazine's "Woman of the Year" (1987); and honored with numerous other awards for her accomplishments. Bancroft Arnesen Explore Website Bancroft Arnesen Explore Facebook Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S3 EP 5 - What She Learned From the Flowers | 30 May 2023 | 00:30:04 | |
Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast! Today I have the author of Angels, Herpes and Psychedelics, Beth Bell on the show. Beth discusses the shift in her life from working in corporate pharmaceuticals to uncovering her soul's desires with the use of Earth Angels and psychedelics. She talks to us about her experience becoming a flower whisperer and how we can quiet down to hear what our soul is telling us. Logan Rose then shares her beautiful story about a woman who reconnects to the earth, awakening her spiritual journey and finding her life’s purpose, titled, What She Learned From The Flowers. Tune in today to learn more about angels, herpes, and psychedelics. I N THIS EPISODE: [2:15] What is Beth’s book, Angels, Herpes and Psychedelics, about? [3:38] What does Beth mean by a virus of the mind when it comes to herpes? [5:00] Is Beth saying that belief systems need to be unwound using psychedelics? [6:08] What is an example of a limiting belief pattern that was helped using angels and psychedelics? [7:40] What is the difference between working hard and working with intention? [08:50] What have Beth’s clients or the people she has interviewed experienced through psychedelics and angels? [12:08] How did the idea of becoming a flower whisperer come into Beth’s life? [13:50] What can we learn from flowers and how can we use them to get into an energy or vibration? [16:09] How did Beth get her start into this work field? [18:11] Are psychedelics really shifting from what we knew in the 60s and 70s? [22:00]: A short story, What She Learned From The Flowers by Logan Rose. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Identify who is driving your life. Is it your ego or your soul? Psychedelics and unheard messages are things that can help you identify what is driving your life and decide if that’s really the journey you are supposed to be on. When you get quiet you can start to listen to what it is your soul is telling you. For our guest, one way to do that was getting up close with flowers and mother nature. There are a wide variety of modalities to connect with your soul. Angels and psychedelics are just two of the ways. Fiction Credits: Short story written and read by: Logan Rose BIO: Her soul's journey has taken her around the world to live, starting with humble beginnings in North Dakota, to California, New York City, Singapore, India, Bali, and now back in California. She spent 15-plus years in strategic brand management in the pharmaceutical industry, before becoming an entrepreneur and developing inspirational products, including a silver jewelry line for both eCommerce and a retail shop in Bali. She currently produces and co-hosts the Psychedelic Sages podcast and is an advisor to CEOs and psychedelic pharmaceutical companies. Her new book, Angels, Herpes and Psychedelics, shares her journey of awakening and provides a spiritual toolbox others can learn from. Beth Bell’s Website Beth Bell’s Instagram Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S3 Ep 4 - Pressure Cooker | 16 May 2023 | 00:35:56 | |
Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast! This week I enjoyed speaking with Naz Beheshti, author of the book, Pause. Breathe. Choose. and CEO of Prananaz, a corporate wellness company that improves leadership effectiveness, employee well-being, and company culture. First, Naz discusses her experience working with Steve Jobs and the valuable lessons she gained as his Executive Assistant that set forth the trajectory of her life. She shares the importance of a holistic approach to well-being, with a focus on rest and recovery. Naz provides several beautiful examples of how well-being drives success.
The episode ends with the short story, Pressure Cooker, by Logan Rose. Listen as we follow a woman who lives with intention, practices self-care, and nourishes her body and mind everyday life. In order to do well, you must be well to escape the “pressure cooker” of life.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[2:02] Naz shares her experience with her first job working for Steve Jobs.
[4:36] Is it a misconception that Steve Jobs was hard to work for?
[7:04] Why do we need multiple areas of interest/activities to be successful?
[11:30] How was Naz’s definition of healthy actually unhealthy?
[13:34] Naz explains her philosophy about “doing something you love every day.”
[17:58] What are Naz’s thoughts on children having over-packed schedules that limit boredom?
[19:57] For a successful CEO, is this a CEO who is naturally attuned to play and recover, or does that have to be taught?
[21:25] How does Prananaz work?
[22:55] How was Steve Jobs so attuned to his own personal well-being?
[25:43] How did Naz find her Exec Admin role with Steve Job as a complete accident?
[28:58] A short story Pressure Cooker by Logan Rose
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Well-being drives success. In order to do well, you must be well. Your body, mind, soul, and spirit must constantly be re-booted to be well-rounded and successful.
Play and recovery help you show up as your best self. Think of something that makes you happy and is fun; make that activity a standing time/practice in your week. This should be non-negotiable and something you consistently do.
Boredom invites creativity. When bored, you often find something to fill the time that brings you great joy. Take the time to get bored, get quiet, and discover what fills your cup. Life is a pressure cooker; it never slows down, so create play and well-being to control your life.
Fiction Credits:
Short story written and read by: Logan Rose
BIO:
Naz Beheshti (pronounced nawz beh-hehsh-tee) is the author of Pause. Breathe. Choose.: Become the CEO of Your Well-Being. She is an executive wellness coach, speaker, Forbes contributor, CEO, and founder of Prananaz, a corporate wellness company improving leadership effectiveness, employee well-being and engagement, and company culture. Clients include Google, Facebook, Nike, JPMorgan Chase, First Republic Bank, UCSF Health, and Columbia University. Her work has been widely featured in the media, including CNBC, Forbes, BBC, Yahoo, Entrepreneur, Inc., Fast Company, and many more. Naz also cofounded Rise2Shine, a nonprofit helping to alleviate the suffering of young children in Haiti.
Visit her online
Facebook Personal Page
Facebook Business Page
Twitter Personal Account
Twitter Business Account
Instagram
LinkedIn
Pause. Breathe. Choose.: Become the CEO of Your Wellbeing - Book Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S3 Ep 3 - The Vibrant Years | 02 May 2023 | 00:40:19 | |
Welcome to this week’s True Fiction Project Podcast. Today, I have the honor of speaking with Sonali Dev, Best Selling Indian American Romance Novelist and author of her new book, The Vibrant Years. The Vibrant Years is the first book released by actress Mindy Kaling’s new publishing imprint, Mindy’s Book Studio. Sonali’s book describes the everyday world of Indian American women. Using her storytelling magic to explore deeper questions about women’s self-reliance and the fight for empowerment by underrepresented, often unheard voices.
Sonali talks about the way of life from past generations to her daughter's generations, noting the differences in choices available to each generation. Sonali discusses the brave choice immigrants make to migrate, whether the choice comes from wanting to seek adventure and exploration, or through necessity or tragedy. At the end of the episode, listen to an excerpt of The Vibrant Years, where we follow Cullie, Alisha and Bindu, three generations of Indian American women, discuss the modern dating scene and walk the precarious line between traditional expectations and twenty-first century aspirations.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[3:03] What did Sonali mean by the title The Vibrant Years?
[6:33] What does Sonali mean by the fact that women can now live the way they want?
[11:13] How would the story have been different if the characters didn’t come from a family of immigrants?
[14:34] How are women conditioned to believe things and being told what to do?
[17:56] Was Sonali’s book inspired by real-life circumstances?
[23:32] How her grandma’s life and experiences played into her book.
[29:52] Why did Mindy Kaling choose to release this book under her imprint?
[32:23] An excerpt from The Vibrant Years by Sonali Dev.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
This generation has the choice to do a variety of things that the previous generation didn’t have the ability to choose from. The opportunities available are double-edged on if they are for the better or not.
An immigrant has an inherent value to adventure, a sense of restlessness, and a belief that they can change their life if they choose. Their hearts are in their choices.
An author’s real-life experiences can often be found in their fiction writing. Many aspects of The Vibrant Years tied in to things that Sonali had gone through or that her grandmother’s experienced.
Fiction Credits:
Story written and read by: Sonali Dev
BIO:
USA Today bestselling author Sonali Dev writes Bollywood-style love stories that explore universal issues. Her novels have been named Best Books of the Year by Library Journal, NPR, the Washington Post, and Kirkus. She has won numerous accolades, including the American Library Association’s award for best romance, the RT Reviewer Choice Award for best contemporary romance, multiple RT Seals of Excellence, has been a RITA® finalist, and has been listed for the Dublin Literary Award. Shelf Awareness calls her “Not only one of the best but one of the bravest romance novelists working today.” Sonali lives in Chicagoland with her husband, two visiting adult children, and the world’s most perfect dog. Find more at sonalidev.com.
Sonali Dev’s Website
Sonali’s Twitter
Sonali’s Facebook Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S3 Ep 2 - How to Human 101 | 18 Apr 2023 | 00:29:58 | |
Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast! I was intrigued to speak with face reader and introverted extrovert, Brian Galke. Brian brings us along his journey from working behind the scenes in the helpdesk field to how he became a public speaker. He has perfected the art of reading faces, which has propelled him forward through connection and successful personal and business relationships. He discusses the facial features to look for when talking with someone to uncover the best way to interact with them. At the end of the episode, enjoy the short story, How to Human 101, by Parker James, where we follow an alien in a human body trying to learn the art of face reading.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[1:35] What is an introverted/extrovert?
[2:55] Where and how did Brian pick up face-reading skills?
[4:45] How did Brian move from the helpdesk to a public speaker?
[7:29] How can Brian read someone’s eyebrows when they change them (pluck, tattoo, etc.)?
[9:13] Does the ability to read faces propel you forward in the potential of working successfully with someone?
[10:56] What happens when facial features change?
[14:20] Brian shows his experience working with people via face reading.
[17:30] How do we focus on the next person when so many of us only want to focus on ourselves?
[19:16] How is Brian teaching the millennial generation, who don’t generally communicate face-to-face, to be comfortable in face-to-face situations?
[24:02] The short story, How to Human 101, Written and Read by Parker James
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Your face is constantly evolving. The left side is the personal side of your face; the right side is your external or professional side. As things in your life change, your facial features can naturally change.
Face reading is all about letting people feel seen and heard. If you attempt to speak someone’s language, you will be treated differently and build better relationships.
Fiction Credits:
Short story written and read by: Parker James
BIO:
As an Introverted/Extrovert, Brian purposely chose professions where people came to him for help (Retail, Hospitality, & Help Desk) to help ease his social anxiety.
Over the course of his career, he realized he loved to learn new tips and tricks to better interact with people, and he always sought out the knowledge. With every new social skill, another promotion soon followed. He was onto something…maybe success starts with good communication skills.
The #1 skill that changed his Personal & Professional life forever was learning Facial Feature Analysis. That skill alone led to Brian’s growth from working the help desk to Regional Vice President of Sales, not too bad for someone who still considers himself to be a bit of an Introvert.
Wanting to help people achieve that same level of success, Brian created Subtle Skills (subtleskills.com) and began speaking/teaching Facial Analysis around the world.
Brian Galke LinkedIn
Brian Galke Facebook
Brian Galke Twitter
Subtle Skills Facebook
Subtle Skills Instagram
Subtle Skills Website
Books mentioned in the episode:
What Every BODY is Saying: An Ex-FBI Agent's Guide to Speed-Reading People by Joe Navarro
You Say More Than You Think: Use the New Body Language to Get What You Want!, the 7-day Plan by Janine Driver Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| S3 Ep 1 - Lalan & the Kathiawadi Horse | 04 Apr 2023 | 00:31:02 | |
Welcome to season 3 of the True Fiction Project Podcast! I was delighted to speak with Mrinalini Watson, a social justice researcher of Rajasthan folktales. Mrinalini discusses how the caste system works in Rajasthan and what social injustices she’s experienced while visiting. She spoke about how stories are shared throughout the villages and how folktales are created. Mrinalini then shares a folktale of Lalan and the Kathiawadi Horse, which tells the story of a woman who fulfills her dying father's wish when her brothers refused. At the end of the episode, we discuss how fiction stories come alive from actual events. Tune in to hear more about how folktales impact the world, the similarities between stories in different cultures, and how they highlight issues that we all share.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[2:18] What does it mean to collect folktales, and how did the folktales come to be?
[6:44] Were the social injustices relevant when Mrinalini visited Rajasthan?
[9:20] Why do women have to cover their faces and take off their shoes? Why would they get in trouble if they didn't?
[11:48] What is the caste system, and how does it work?
[17:43] Mrinalini Watson shares a folktale of Lalan and the Kathiawadi Horse, about a dying father's wish to give a horse to each person who had supported him as king and how his daughter made it happen when his sons wouldn't.
[23:37] How much of this story is true or steeped in mythology?
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
The folktales were created by patrons/genealogists who would come in for special occasions like birth or wedding and were called to narrate a story. Each person in the family has their own storyteller, which resulted in individual collections of stories.
The caste system is very pronounced. It takes greater prominence over the economic divide. You have the upper class, who can be poor people, but they can still have a higher status than wealthier scheduled castes.
Folktales are a way for people to deal with their problems. We see similar stories all across different cultures where the same story would not have been shared before. People around the world have similar problems; they're using similar strategies to resolve these problems through storytelling. We aren’t so special and unique afterall.
Fiction Credits:
A folktale read by: Mrinalini Watson
BIO:
Mrinalini Watson is a student – with undergraduate degrees in nutrition and accounting. She has graduate degrees in tax, linguistics, and literary translation and is a retired CPA. Mrinalini is a state department-administered Critical Language (CGIU) conference attendee and award recipient.
Co-founder of enLighten two emPower, an NGO empowering girls and women in remote areas of rural Rajasthan. Recipient of two Fulbright fellowships for research on social justice in Rajasthani folktales that I will be collecting and translating. Currently learning the Bengali language and culture and studying anthropology.
An athlete – from high school (track and field, long-distance races, gymnastics, swimming, and basketball) to the present (summited Mt. Whitney 5 times; 2 L A marathons; and a few half marathons) Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Revisited - Emergency Ukraine Crisis Episode: A Plea From Yuriy | 28 Feb 2023 | 00:29:38 | |
As we pass the anniversary of Russia invading Ukraine, we are revisiting this special Ukraine emergency episode on the True Fiction Project Podcast. I spoke with Yuriy, a journalist on the ground in Kyiv who had taken up arms to fight for the freedom of his country. Yuriy recalled waking up to the early morning attacks in Kyiv and he shared how this unwarranted conflict has affected his family and the civilians of Ukraine. He spoke to the heroic and sacrificial patriotism of his fellow Ukrainians. Yuriy’s main concern was to appeal to Western allies to take to the streets in an effort to help convince NATO to help Ukraine by establishing a no fly zone. Later in the episode, we hear two fictional stories that give us a glimpse into the sobering realities that the people of Ukraine are still facing today.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[01:59] Yuriy recalls the morning when the Russians first attacked Kyiv
[05:36] Ukrainian neighbors become family as they fight for their freedom
[08:40] Yuriy shares about the location and safety of his family and pleads for Western allies to help stop the destruction of Ukraine
[14:00] Yuriy talks about his wartime duties, helping foreign journalists
[15:57] An appeal for a no fly zone to be issued for Ukraine and Yuriy’s concern for Ukrainians and all of the people of the free world
[19:28] Fiction Story #1: Mornings in the Kyiv Metro was written and voiced by Parker James
[24:02] Fiction Story #2: Dearest Papa story was written by Anjalika Sharma and voiced by her daughter, Anika
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Yuriy makes a strong plea for Ukrainian allies to do everything in their power to demand that NATO help establish a no fly zone and protect Ukrainian civilians.
From Yuriy’s perspective, Russia’s attack is not a war against only Ukraine. If Russia’s agenda is not halted it may impact free people all over the world.
Free speech may be another casualty of the Russia Ukraine situation as President Vladimir Putin is taking extreme steps to control what the Russian public knows about the invasion of Ukraine. He has signed a law that imposes stiff sentences on journalists who air what he deems to be false information.
In “Mornings in the Kyiv Metro,” we see the loss, confusion, and hardship of Russia’s attacks through a child’s eyes. In “Dearest Papa,” a father and daughter are separated by the Ukrainian war with only memories and letters to comfort them.
LINKS:
Listen to Yuriy’s Fighting For Ukraine: On The Ground for daily updates
Apple Podcast
Spotify
Visit Change.org to petition demanding NATO to install a no fly zone of Ukraine: https://www.change.org/p/no fly-zone-for-ukraine-now
A Plea from Yuriy - A Fictional Story in Print
Mornings in the Kyiv Metro - A Fictional Story in Print
Dearest Papa - A Fictional Story in Print Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Revisited - Shadow Realm with Dr. Kanniks Kannikeswaran | 14 Feb 2023 | 00:43:13 | |
In this revisited episode, I’m speaking with Dr. Kanniks Kannikeswaran, an internationally renowned music composer, educator and scholar known for his sustained contribution to music and community for the past 25 years. We talk about his incredible work on the soundtrack of Shadow Realm, a podcast project based on a young adult fantasy fiction book that I wrote. Dr. Kanniks shares how his imagination was instantly captivated by the vivid literary descriptions and how he utilized Sanskrit chants, an ancient language of India, to musically portray different characters. We also talk about the inspiration he found from his travels to the ancient village of Hampi, India. The latter part of the episode showcases Dr. Kanniks’ work as we listen to Episode 8 of Shadow Realm and hear a portion of Arya’s story.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:01] Kanniks Kannikeswaran introduced
[02:02] Purpose of The True Fiction Project
[03:12] His process of writing music
[10:50] Explaining lyrics and Sanskrit
[13:40] The Medicine Woman
[16:55] Rishiji’s Theme
[25:57] Where to find the music
[28:30] Episode 8 of Shadow Realm
[29:03] The Vanar’s theme
[39:06] Rishiji’s theme
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Shadow Realm is a young adult fantasy fiction story about Arya, a 15 year old boy who fell through a fault and finds himself in the land of the Ramayana. He has to fight demons in this mythical world in order to get back home to save his mom and tackle demons in his ordinary world
Dr. Kanniks’ main inspiration came from his travels to the ancient village of Hampi in India
The vanar represent the prehistoric people descended from old world tribes, best translated as monkeys or monkey people
For the “Vanar March,” Dr. Kanniks used Sanskrit chants to create a joyful chant to go along with the vanar as they joyfully frolic and jump around
For “Rishiji’s Theme,” Dr. Kanniks used the pentatonic scale, most commonly known for meditation, to create a serene humming that captures the magic and mysteriousness of the mystical mentor
The Medicine Woman is a representation of a source of wisdom for us all
Dr. Kanniks created a total of 14 tracks to complement the podcast project which is now available on Apple Music, Spotify, and other streaming platforms.
BIO:
Dr. Kanniks Kannikeswaran, an internationally renowned music composer, educator and scholar is known for his sustained contribution to music and community for the past 25 years. His recent viral video ‘Rivers of India’ featuring Bombay Jayashri and Kaushiki Chakravarti has received critical acclaim. Kanniks, is regarded as a pioneer of Indian American Choral music and for bringing together ancient chants in Indian ragas with choral and orchestral polyphony; his far reaching work in this area has personally touched the lives of over 3500 performers, has inspired the flowering of community choirs in over 12 cities in the United States, has built new audiences and collaborations. His composition ‘Mahavakya’ was performed at the historic reception accorded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Madison Square Gardens in 2014. Kanniks has been described as a renaissance personality who effortlessly traverses diverse disciplines such as music, spirituality and innovation. He is a recipient of several awards including the Distinguished Alumnus Award from IIT Madras, the McKnight Residency, the Ohio Heritage Fellowship and more. He can be reached at kanniks@gmail.com.
Connect on Social Media:
https://www.facebook.com/kanniks/
https://twitter.com/kanniks
https://www.instagram.com/kanniks_kannikeswaran/
LINKS:
https://www.thearyachronicles.com/ Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Season 2 Fan-Favorite Episodes Mashup | 31 Jan 2023 | 00:35:05 | |
Welcome to this week’s True Fiction Project Podcast. During this episode, we are mashing up the top three fan-favorite interviews and true fiction pieces from Season 2! The top three episodes were: Ro’s Journey of Love, Price of Magic, and Cut from the Same Cloth. Listen to a wide range of topics, from Julia Karol becoming a single mom in her 40s with the use of a sperm bank to Barbara Majeski’s life being turned upside down with a cancer diagnosis. Finish up with Chrysta Bilton learning her boyfriend was actually her half-brother! Tune in for these great interviews snippets and fiction pieces and listen to the full episodes linked in the show notes.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:48] Number 3: Julia Karol’s journey of heartbreak, healing, love, and her decision to become a single mom in her 40s.
[3:12] Ro’s Journey of Love by Priya Sharma Shaikh.
[12:43] Number 2: Barbara Majeski joins to talk about how she improved her life and started chasing her dreams amidst life challenges.
[15:15] Price of Magic by Gary Krivtsov.
[23:34] Number 1: Chrysta Bilton’s story about her new memoir and the discovery of her 35 siblings.
[26:25] Cut from the Same Cloth by Michael Kobzik.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Do the things that you want in life, get into the arena and try and fail. It can end at any moment, so chase those dreams and desires! We only have one life, so don’t waste it being fearful of what you genuinely want to do in life.
Just because you haven’t found love yet doesn't mean you have to hold off on your dream of becoming a parent. With so many options available now, you can make your dreams come true as a single person.
Ancestry tests that are now available open up a whole new option of finding out if those conceived through sperm donations are related. Information kept anonymous in the 70s and 80s is now readily available.
Fiction Credits:
Ro’s Journey of Love
A short story written and narrated by: Priya Sharma Shaikh - priyasharmashaikh@gmail.com Twitter: @piyushaikh Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/priyasharmashaikh/recent-activity/posts/
Price of Magic
A short story written and narrated by: Gary Krivtsov
Cut from the Same Cloth
A short story written by: Michael Kobzik
A short story narrated by: Regina Williams - https://www.fiverr.com/raejanae
Resources:
S2 Ep3 Ro’s Journey of Love Full Episode
S2 Ep 1 The Price of Magic Full Episode
S2 Ep 2 Cut from the Same Cloth Full Episode Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Season 1 Fan-Favorite Episodes Mashup | 19 Jan 2023 | 00:38:35 | |
Welcome to this week’s True Fiction Project Podcast. During this episode, we are mashing up the top three fan-favorite interviews and true fiction pieces from season 1! Our top three episodes were: ENCORE - Wise Guy Charming, The Queen of Teacups, and Janet Blue. Each interview and story has something unique to share, ranging from a tale of Prince Charming to a family memento that helped overcome fear. Tune in today to hear interview snippets and full story stories from each episode, and find the link to the full episode in the notes below!
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:52] Number 3: Ethan Herschenfeld’s unlikely casted character
[04:15] Wise Guy Charming by Parker James
[10:56] Number 2: Queen of teacups - Lissi Kaplan
[15:16] The Queen of Teacups by Michael Colucci
[25:40] Number 1: Heather Vickery - Success and Leadership Coach
[28:18] Janet Blue by Michael Kobzik
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Fear is here for us. It either owns us or empowers us, and we gain power when we’re honest about our fear, surrender to it, and learn from it. Don’t fear fear…instead, get curious about the message it is trying to communicate.
Teacups have a rich history of being used as offerings and sacred vessels. They have been passed down from generation to generation as gifts in families.
TV roles are often chosen based on how viewers would imagine the character to look, so actors don’t always get to play the part they want. This sometimes creates limitations for actors because if they look a certain way, they will only be cast for a specific role throughout their career.
Fiction Credits:
Wiseguy Charming
Short story written and read by: Parker James - Twitter : parkerjwrites Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/parkerjames324892213
Queen of Teacups
Short story narrated by: Amy Scanlon- AmyScanlonVO@hotmail.com Twitter: @scanners19 IG: @ScanlonSounds
Short story written by: Michael Colucci
Janet Blue
Short story narrated by: Regina Williams - https://www.fiverr.com/raejanae
Short story written by: Michael Kobzik
Resources:
S1 Ep 14 Janet Blue Full Episode
S1 Ep 13 Queen of Teacups Full Episode
S1 Ep 12 Encore Wiseguy Charming Full Episode Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||