In Alex Woodard’s book, “Ordinary Soil,” readers are introduced to a young farmer, burdened by a mysterious family legacy and modern-day despair, who attempts to take his own life, and in doing so, sets off a chain of events that uncovers long-buried secrets. Alex joins the show to talk about how he met Zach Bush, M.D., and how the unexpected conversation they would have would inspire the story of “Ordinary Soil.” We discuss the different perspectives in this book that are separated by decades and what each has to share. Alex also talks about the message he hopes to impart to readers. There is an audiobook version of “Ordinary Soil,” voiced by the absolutely amazing team of Scott Brick and George Newbern. Alex shares how he met with Scott and George, the different voices that each brings to the table and how they brought the story to life. Alex also offers some advice for those looking to bring their own stories to the world. 

Let’s face it—clowns are downright terrifying and in John Ward’s new book, “Scareville 8: Food to Die For,” we’re introduced to Chunko the Clown and find out just why you never want to mess with them. Here’s why: Traverse City, Michigan, seems like the perfect small town—until a cheerful jingle and a pudgy clown mascot turn everything upside down. When the new burger joint, Chunko Town, opens its doors, the town can’t wait to meet Chunko the Clown. But the friendly facade hides a sinister secret.  Middle graders Kira and her friends quickly learn the hard way: whatever you do—don’t anger the clown! With each daring misstep, Chunko’s cheerful grin twists into something far more terrifying, and the kids find themselves trapped in a nightmarish game of wits and courage. In this episode, John and I talk about clowns in horror, writing for a middle grade audience, and get a glimpse into his soon-to-be-released debut in adult horror.

Picture this—It’s 1,000 years into the future, and Earth is a dying world. The ocean itself has become The Caul, a predator that lures in and devours anyone that goes near it. Humanity has fled the planet, and few people dare to return.  Mae Jameson is an octogenarian former Service agent who arrived on Earth 30 years ago to find her lover. When she encounters Siofra, a mute girl, wandering alone by the shore and returns home, they discover the girl's father, rogue scientist Carl Magellan, hanging from a noose. Unwilling to leave the matter in the hands of the facility Carl abandoned years ago, Mae takes Carl’s journals—which detail his obsession with the Caul and its mysteries—and sets about investigating. That’s the story of “Exo,” the debut sci-fi novel by Colin Brush, out on Nov. 18. In this episode, Colin talks about what the Caul is and what inspired its creation. He and I discuss protagonist Mae Jameson and the quest before her, and the role tat Siofra plays in the book. We go into his lengthy background in literature and how that helped, and look at the possibility of a second book.

Hey everyone, let’s take a trip to Exorcism Island! It’s a tropical paradise with sunny skies, pristine beaches…..but with demons. Lotsa demons. But don’t take my word for it, here’s a look at the story: Following a terrifying confrontation with a possessed woman, Father Gigi Amato finds himself sent to a remote Caribbean Island run by the Vatican to join a group of priests tasked with looking after the most troubled, long-term, demonic possession cases. The group of psychologically and emotionally bruised priests bicker and bond in their attempt to keep the madness of the island under control, but dark forces are working against them from all sides as evil digs its nails into their spiritually poisoned, isolated home. This new series from Comixology launches Oct. 21 and series writer Jordan Thomas joins me to talk about the origin of the story and what it was like working with artist and longtime fiend Chris Matthews. Jordan goes into the characters and what has led to them calling Exorcism Island home and what we can expect over the next five issues.

At 13 years old, Kristina Amelong's brother predicted his own death with unsettling accuracy. No one believed him – until it happened exactly as he said. Haunted by this, Jay’s death sent Kristina into a spiral of addiction and recklessness. Decades later, determined to understand the meaning behind his prediction, she embarked on a journey that led to resilience, healing, and a deeper exploration of the mysteries that shape our lives. This led to her writing the memoir, “What My Brother Knew.” In this episode, Kristina talks about Jay, and the prediction he made to his family. She talks about the journey she took after her brother’s death and who she is today. We look at her decision to write this book and how her family responded to it. Kristina shares the message in “What My Brother Knew” that she hopes to impart to readers.

Author J. Lee returns with his newest book, and this one has an ending you’ll never see coming. The murder mystery “Coach’s Corner” will be released out on Oct. 14. Here’s a look at the story: In a small rural town of 1,500 people, life is usually quiet — until the summer of 1997, when Charlie’s best friend, Barry Ray, is arrested for murder. Convinced of Barry Ray’s innocence, Charlie sets out to uncover the truth, navigating his dangerous investigation without the help of modern technology.  What begins as a simple search for justice quickly unravels his understanding of right and wrong, revealing that truth is rarely black and white — and exposing it could cost lives. In this episode, J. Lee will talk about the unique nature of this mystery, how the setting influences the story, and solving a mystery through the eyes of youth.

In his debut book, author Todd Brown weaves a dark tale in the Southern Gothic “When Shadows Burn.” Here’s a look at the story: In the heart of Raven’s Cross, Virginia, the decaying Scott house looms. Its broken-window eyes watch a town desperate to forget. When Roxy, a teenage girl, vanishes into a sweltering night, long-buried fears erupt, and suspicion turns savage. The townspeople turn on the newcomers, blaming them for what they refuse to face in themselves. As polite smiles crack and old grudges resurface, Raven’s Cross’s genteel mask begins to slip, revealing the rot beneath.  Timothy Michaels came to town chasing a story. A true crime podcaster investigating the haunted legacy of the Scott house, he never expected to be pulled into something so immediate—and so dangerous. Alongside unexpected allies, Tim begins to unearth a legacy of complicity and cruelty—one the town would kill to keep buried. Because, in Raven’s Cross, the shadows don’t just linger. They burn. Todd’s book brings with it authentic queer representation and he talks about what this means to him, as well as how he goes about doing it. We look into the writing process, a sequel in the works, and the story behind the cover and title. Todd talks with us about the story’s origin and the worldbuilding he did to craft the Scott house and town of Raven’s Cross. He talks about the house’s history and how the town itself has changed as a result. We’re introduced to Timothy Michaels and his choice to learn the history of the Scott house, as well his own past in Raven’s Cross. This interview includes an excerpt from the audiobook, coming out later this year and voiced by award-winning VA Emily Woo Zeller.

In the recent Comixology release “Outer Lands,” a young prince living in a seemingly Ancient Grecian world is exiled to a prison isle to keep him from assuming the throne, he unintentionally discovers a massive global conspiracy. It’s a great story with a twist that will really surprise you. Series writer Matthew Arnold joins us to talk about how the series lived for awhile in his mind, writing so much that when the time came to bring it to life, much of it was ready to go. We discuss the team behind this, including artist Davide Gianfelice, who is best known for his work on “Northlanders,” and a cover by artist Jock, whose comics work includes “Batman” and “Wytches.” Matthew dives into the in-depth worldbuilding and research that he did for “Outer Lands” and the modern-day themes that were blended into the story. We talk about characters, specifically Prince Heron, the series protagonist who may or may not be the hero of the story. Matthew also gives advice on getting that creative ball rolling and how to find a team to work with.

In author Pamela Harris’ newest book, “Through Our Teeth,” we open with the death of Hope Jackson, and while it appears that she took her own life, her friend Liv doesn’t believe it. But as the investigation unfolds, we learn that things are not what they seem. Join us as Pamela talks about how this grew from an idea she had 10 years ago, the complex characters she’s created, the social issues she addresses in the story, and how sometimes, things are not what they seem.

At 60 years old, author Anne Abel did something completely out of character – she flew halfway across the world by herself to follow Bruce Springsteen’s tour in Australia. Eight concerts. Five cities. Twenty-six days. No guidebook, no plan. Just a desperate hope that his music might save her life. This story is the heart of her new memoir, "High Hopes," released on Springsteen’s birthday, Sept. 23. In this interview, Anne talks about seeing her first Springsteen concert and the powerful impact it had. She shares what led to her following Springsteen on tour and her experiences at the different shows—even meeting the artist at one point! Anne talks about her decision to write a memoir about these experiences and the process of putting it all together, as well as the hopeful messages contained within.

As they say, all good things must come to an end. After six books, award-winning The Vega and Middleton series by Sue Hinkin is about to come to a close with “The Snake Handler’s Wife” (Oct. 1, Literary Wanderlust). It’s the final mystery for Los Angeles TV news journalist Bea Jackson and best friend, photographer Lucy Vega, and we talk about the final story as well as how the series got its start. Sue goes into the characters and how they’ve changed over six books, where the ideas come from, and how she’s wrapping up the series.

On May 28, 2013, Jocelyn Rasmussen woke up and realized, with profound clarity, that she had cancer. This was later confirmed by a doctor, after which Jocelyn was told she had a small chance of survival. Today, Jocelyn is a cancer survivor for 12 years and living a life of love, adventure and music.  During her treatment, Jocelyn began speaking with other patients with life-threatening illnesses about hope and healing, a message she brings to her memoir, “This Day Won't Come Again: Radical Presence and Life-Threatening Illness.” In this episode, Jocelyn recounts that fateful day and what went through her mind after receiving the diagnosis. She talks about the choice to go into treatment, and how she managed the days that followed. Jocelyn speaks on her meetings with other patients and the person that recommended she publish a book, as well as how she built on what had already been done. She explains the message of living “into the best and worst of all that arises when the possibility of our own mortality seems sooner rather than later.”   

What if you could lead an entirely different life, changing the choices you once made? Would you be willing to leave the old life behind? That’s the story behind author C.B. Giesinger’s new book, “The Wall That Divides the Ocean.” Here’s a look at the plot. Anna is satisfied with the life that she has built with her husband, Chris. Her steady, but lackluster job, and their cushion-stain-free lifestyle give her stability, untouched by chaos.  As she succumbs to her brain-swelling coma, Anna opens her eyes inexplicably to a life she would have once had. She finds herself married to a man she'd once met in Scotland, though she'd left him to pursue a more predictable path over a decade ago. He gives her life meaning and excitement, filled with the happiness and chaos that make life worth living.   Will the truth of her circumstances force her to confront her new life and return to where she came from? Or will she risk living a lie to preserve the dream she has created across the ocean? In this interview, C.B. talks about the inspiration for the book and how she chose the cover and title. We do into the new life that Anna is living in her coma and the man she’s now married to. We talk about how it compares to her old life and the choice she has to make. 

Derek Smith of Derek Smith and the Cosmic Vultures is back with a brand new three-part album called Temporary Circus. Act 1 was released back in May, with the second act slated for Sept. 12. The music is a wonderful, eclectic blend of sounds that showcases Derek’s wide-ranging style. In this interview, Derek talks about the origins of Temporary Circus and what we can expect in Act 2. He shares what’s new in this release, including his wife singing on one of the tracks. We talk promotion for the new project, and how he makes himself heard amidst the ten of thousands of artists working toward the same goal. Derek’s music has recently hit some new milestones, with songs like “Black Angel” and “White Spade Symphony” reaching 30,000 listens on Spotify, and he gives an honest take on what that means to him. Closing out this episode is “Indie Darling,” from “Temporary Circus Act 1.”

Born and raised in San Francisco, author Brian Brady has blended the city’s endless inspiration with his lengthy career as a police officer and security executive to create his series of books. The newest, “Greed,” begins with an art forgery and theft, traveling from San Francisco to Paris to Amsterdam, but takes a twist when one of the perpetrators gets too greedy. In this episode, Brian talks about what inspired his decision to join the writing world and the real-life cases he’s drawn inspiration from. He talks about San Francisco as a setting, the things he’s learned as a writer and give us a glimpse into his fourth book.

Heidi Yewman’s memoir “dumb girl” (Aug. 19) chronicles the physical, emotional and sexual abuse she suffered for years, and how that pain was transformed into purpose following the tragic shooting at Columbine High School. Among the victims was her beloved basketball coach. For years Yewman has worked as a gun violence activist, producing the award-winning documentary “Behind the Bullet,” and has worked on campaign, organized vigils and asked the hard questions to gun owners. In this interview, we talk about Yewman’s decision to share her life’s story in “dumb girl” and what it was like to revisit the experiences of her childhood. She talks about her time as an activist and the gains and losses, as well as the hope she sees with the younger generation. 

My next guest’s life is something out of a movie, and in her memoir “Maya Blue: A Memoir of Survival,” Brenda Coffee takes us through the good and the bad, reminding us that if you keep your voice and your wits, you can survive almost anything.  In this interview, Brenda talks about how she opens the book, with a burly man telling her and hr husband that their lives wee in danger. We talk about how she chose what to include and what to leave out, and how the editing process shaped the story. She also goes into the message behind the story and how the public has responded since the book was released.

Rock band One Time Mountain has undergone a lot of changes in recent years, including a brand new lineup in 2020 when the band at that time went their separate ways. Guitarist Brian Murphy decided to keep it going and recruited Ethan Garman, Zach Rizzo and Alec Smith, creating a lineup that brings a lot of fire and past music experience with them. In this episode, the band joins us to talk about the new one up and how it stands apart from the previous incarnation. We go into new music, in particular, “Goin’ Crazy,” which drops the same day as this episode. We talk about future releases and plans for the band down the road. Closing out this episode is an excerpt from “Goin’ Crazy,” and you should definitely check out the new single!   

Rob Tonkin’s new book “Asshole” is an honest look at his own life, from self-destruction to eventual redemption, with a lot of hard-won insights into authentic living. In this episode, Rob talks about his career in the music and radio industries, which while very successful, covered up wounds from his past. Rob talk about these experiences and what led him to get help from a variety of sources, and his new life on other side. Rob goes into the writing process and the challenges of revisiting certain parts of his life. He talk about the unique title and cover photo, how both came to be used, as well his hopes for readers. 

Hendrika de Vries was just a little girl when she experienced brutal violence and hunger in WWII Amsterdam. She immigrated to Australia as a professional teenage swimmer, and in her new book, “Open Turns: From Dutch Girl to New Australian,” she chronicles her experiences during this time, and how they reflect what young women go through today. In this interview, Hendrika shares her youth in Amsterdam and the experience of growing up during the war. She talks abut the family’s immigration to Australia and how she got into swimming, even shattering a few records in the process. Hendrika shares how she views current events and their similarities to what she went through as a child, as well as how she found the courage to overcome these struggles. She talks about th writing process and what it was like to revisit this part of her life.