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Exploring the Blank Page

Exploring the Blank Page

By Emilie Hendryx and Christen Krumm

A podcast for #readers and #writers of #YAFiction that explores the process behind the blank page!

Hosted by Christen Krumm and Emilie Hendryx
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055: Katee Stein

Exploring the Blank PageDec 08, 2023

00:00
57:09
055: Katee Stein

055: Katee Stein

As legend has it, Katee Stein was born with a book in her hand. Although never officially confirmed, reports suggest her earliest years were spent haunting the local library.  It is unclear what profound thoughts led Katee to write her first book, The Nameless Stegosaurus, but her love of storytelling took root from that moment on.

Once grown, Katee traveled, met the love of her life, had two amazing children, and started working in special education. And through it all words never stopped swirling, begging to be released. Finally, when the ache in her chest became too much,  she started to write the stories that had lived so long in her head. 

So it was, Katee has learned the value of the long way around. The uncharted course that spun a lifetime of experience into the foundation to create worlds and explore possibilities.

Of course, if you were to meet her, she’s of an ordinary sort who loves coffee and slow mornings; chickens and sunrises; and most of all, her people.

If you have a story in you, it hurts not to get it out. —Katee Stein

Connect with Katee Stein on her website (kateestein.com) and Instagram (@katee.stein)











Did you know you can support this podcast? Support this podcast by clicking the "Support" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage or by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform!

Don't miss anything from Exploring the Blank Page Podcast

*Instagram: ⁠@exploringtheblankpagepodcast⁠

*YouTube: ⁠@ExploringTheBlankPage⁠

Exploring the Blank Page Podcast is hosted by Emilie Hendryx and Christen Krumm

*Instagram: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm⁠

*TikTok: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm

Dec 08, 202357:09
054: Karen Grunst

054: Karen Grunst

Karen’s fascination with speculative fiction began while sitting transfixed on the floor of her 3rd-grade classroom listening to her teacher read A Wrinkle in Time. A love affair with The Chronicles of Narnia soon followed. As an adult, she enjoys reading most genres but fantasy holds a special place in her heart.

Epic series, especially those written from a Christian worldview, inspired Karen to create the Sacred Fire Saga for young adult readers. Aclesia, the name of the fictional land, is a play on the Greek word, ekklesia, meaning those who are called out. The characters in Sacred Fire grapple with their aspirations and fears, gifts and flaws, faith and doubts. Like us, each is called to play a role in a story much grander than they realize.

When Karen is not writing, revising, or planning her next book launch she often can be found on the tennis court taking her literary frustrations out on a little yellow ball. She also enjoys hiking with her husband and sons in the national parks. The spectacular landscapes provide rich setting ideas she can’t wait to utilize in future novels.

Give your mind white space. — Karen Grunst

Connect with Karen on her website (karengrunst.com) and Instagram (@karengrunst)

Mentioned in This Episode

















Did you know you can support this podcast? Support this podcast by clicking the "Support" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage or by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform!

Don't miss anything from Exploring the Blank Page Podcast

*Instagram: ⁠@exploringtheblankpagepodcast⁠

*YouTube: ⁠@ExploringTheBlankPage⁠

Exploring the Blank Page Podcast is hosted by Emilie Hendryx and Christen Krumm

*Instagram: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm⁠

*TikTok: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm

Dec 02, 202332:49
053: Court Stevens

053: Court Stevens

Courtney “Court” Stevens grew up in the knockabout town of Bandana, Kentucky. She is a former adjunct professor, youth minister, Olympic torchbearer, and bookseller at Parnassus Books in Nashville, TN. These days she writes coming-of-truth fiction and is the Executive Director of Warren County Public Library in Bowling Green, KY. She has a pet whale named Herman, a bandsaw named Rex, and a tiny fleet of novels with her name on the spine.

It’s important for me to remind people they matter. —Court Stevens

Connect with Court Stevens on her website (courtneycstevens.com) and Instagram (@quartland)

Mentioned in This Episode

Last Girl Breathing | Court Stevens

Beartown | Fredrik Backman

Tom Lake | Ann Patchett

The Thursday Murder Club | Richard Osman

The Other Year | Rea Frey

Markus Zusak’s books

Did you know you can support this podcast? Support this podcast by clicking the "Support" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage or by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform!


Don't miss anything from Exploring the Blank Page Podcast

*Instagram: ⁠@exploringtheblankpagepodcast⁠

*YouTube: ⁠@ExploringTheBlankPage⁠

Exploring the Blank Page Podcast is hosted by Emilie Hendryx and Christen Krumm

📸 Instagram: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm⁠

👯‍♀️ TikTok: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm


📸 Instagram:

Emilie - https://www.instagram.com/createexploreread/

Christen - https://www.instagram.com/christenkrumm/

👯‍♀️ TikTok:

Emilie - https://www.tiktok.com/@createexploreread

Christen - https://www.tiktok.com/@christenkrumm

Nov 24, 202351:41
THE MARGINS: Let the New Year Fuel Your Creativity

THE MARGINS: Let the New Year Fuel Your Creativity

Emilie flies solo for this episode chatting about letting the New Year fuel your creativity.

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🎉 Did you know you can support this podcast? Support this podcast by clicking the "Support" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage or by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform!


Don't miss anything from Exploring the Blank Page Podcast


*Instagram: ⁠@exploringtheblankpagepodcast⁠

*YouTube: ⁠@ExploringTheBlankPage⁠


Exploring the Blank Page Podcast is hosted by Emilie Hendryx and Christen Krumm

📸 Instagram: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm⁠

👯‍♀️ TikTok: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm

Nov 22, 202309:00
052: Amanda Auler

052: Amanda Auler

A mother by day and writer by spare moment, Amanda Auler is getting used to calling herself a Young Adult fantasy fiction author. At twenty-one she made a goal to be published by thirty and her debut novel, Daughter of the Sun, will launch precisely one year and two weeks before her thirtieth birthday. Inspired by Patrick Rothfuss, Brandon Sanderson and Juliet Marillier (to name a few), Amanda writes stories that explore emotional growth and personal resilience. When she’s not at her laptop, Amanda can be found roasting coffee in her garage (usually with a book in hand), improving her ASL fluency and trying to keep up with her three growing boys. She and her husband live in central North Carolina where they stay up too late watching Top Chef and eating fancy ramen.

I see writing as work — and a work that I enjoy. — Amanda Auler

Connect with Amanda on her website (authoramandaauler.com) and Instagram (@authoramandaauler)

Mentioned in This Episode

Daughter of the Sun | Amanda Auler

Children of the Earth | Amanda Auler

Suspended in the Stars | E. A. Hendryx

On Your Hands | Jordan St. James

The Price of Power | Michael Michel

Lightbringer | Pierce Brown

Did you know you can support this podcast? Support this podcast by clicking the "Support" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage or by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform!

Don't miss anything from Exploring the Blank Page Podcast

*Instagram: ⁠@exploringtheblankpagepodcast⁠

*YouTube: ⁠@ExploringTheBlankPage⁠








Nov 17, 202336:23
051: L.E. Richmond
Nov 05, 202332:52
050: K.E. Ganshert

050: K.E. Ganshert

Katie (K.E.) Ganshert graduated from the University of Wisconsin in Madison with a degree in education. She worked as a fifth-grade teacher for several years before staying home to write. Now she’s a full-time author published in two genres: young adult fiction of the fantastical variety and contemporary fiction of the inspirational variety. She is currently pursuing the former. Her novels have won numerous awards, such as the Christy, the Carol, and the RT Reviewers Choice. Katie makes her home in eastern Iowa with her family.

You don’t have to get it right, get it written. — K.E. Ganshert

Connect with Katie on her website (katieganshert.com) and Instagram (@katieganshert)

Mentioned in This Episode

The Eden Pruitt Series | K.E. Ganshert

The Gifting Series | K.E. Ganshert

Luka | K.E. Ganshert

The Contest | K.E. Ganshert

No One Ever Asked | Katie Ganshert

The Last Flight | Julie Clark

The Lies I Tell | Julie Clark

None of This is True | Lisa Jewell

Shop Katie’s bookshop (keganshertbooks.com)


Did you know you can support this podcast? Support this podcast by clicking the "Support" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage or by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform!

Don't miss anything from Exploring the Blank Page Podcast

*Instagram: ⁠@exploringtheblankpagepodcast⁠

*YouTube: ⁠@ExploringTheBlankPage⁠

Exploring the Blank Page Podcast is hosted by Emilie Hendryx and Christen Krumm

📸 Instagram:

Emilie - https://www.instagram.com/createexploreread/

Christen - https://www.instagram.com/christenkrumm/

👯‍♀️ TikTok:

Emilie - https://www.tiktok.com/@createexploreread

Christen - https://www.tiktok.com/@christenkrumm

Oct 27, 202338:40
THE MARGINS: When You Feel Like Giving Up

THE MARGINS: When You Feel Like Giving Up

NaNoWriMo - https://nanowrimo.org/

Join Emilie on NaNoWriMo - https://nanowrimo.org/participants/eahendryx

Join Christen on NaNoWriMo - https://nanowrimo.org/participants/christenkrumm


4 the Words - https://4thewords.com/


Get the Backward NaNo Tracker here: https://subscribepage.io/7oRV0L


-----------------


🎉 Did you know you can support this podcast? Support this podcast by clicking the "Support" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage or by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform!


Don't miss anything from Exploring the Blank Page Podcast


*Instagram: ⁠@exploringtheblankpagepodcast⁠

*YouTube: ⁠@ExploringTheBlankPage⁠


Exploring the Blank Page Podcast is hosted by Emilie Hendryx and Christen Krumm

📸 Instagram: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm⁠

👯‍♀️ TikTok: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm

Oct 25, 202315:43
THE MARGINS: NaNoWriMo Prep

THE MARGINS: NaNoWriMo Prep

NaNoWriMo - https://nanowrimo.org/

Join Emilie on NaNoWriMo - https://nanowrimo.org/participants/eahendryx

Join Christen on NaNoWriMo - https://nanowrimo.org/participants/christenkrumm


Get the Backward NaNo Tracker here: https://subscribepage.io/7oRV0L


-----------------


🎉 Did you know you can support this podcast? Support this podcast by clicking the "Support" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage or by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform!


Don't miss anything from Exploring the Blank Page Podcast


*Instagram: ⁠@exploringtheblankpagepodcast⁠

*YouTube: ⁠@ExploringTheBlankPage⁠


Exploring the Blank Page Podcast is hosted by Emilie Hendryx and Christen Krumm

📸 Instagram: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm⁠

👯‍♀️ TikTok: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm

Oct 25, 202313:20
049: Rachelle Nelson

049: Rachelle Nelson

Rachelle Nelson grew up reading fantasy novels and getting her clothes muddy in the pine forests of Idaho. These days, she still loves hiking through mountains and libraries, though she is a bit less fond of mud. She doesn't write true stories, but she writes about truth. When Rachelle is not reading and writing, she sings in a band with her talented husband, who makes her happier than should be legal. If you like adventures, good food, and honest conversations, you are her favorite kind of person.

The blank page is clean and beautiful and there’s so much space. I love the start of things. —Rachelle Nelson

Connect with Rachelle Nelson on her website (rachellenelsonauthor.com) and Instagram (@rachelle.nelson.author)

Mentioned in This Episode

Sky of Seven Colors | Rachelle Nelson

Brandon Sanderson’s YouTube writing class

Subscribe to Rachelle’s newsletter and get the Sky of Seven Color prequel novelette!

Guardian | Cathy McCrumb

The Mermaid’s Tale | L.E. Richmond

The Hollow Kingdom | Clare B Dunkle

Clare B Dunkle’s essays on Writing Craft

East | Edith Pattou

Melanie Cellier’s books

Good Earth Sweet and Spicy tea

Did you know you can support this podcast? Support this podcast by clicking the "Support" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage or by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform!

Don't miss anything from Exploring the Blank Page Podcast

*Instagram: ⁠@exploringtheblankpagepodcast⁠

*YouTube: ⁠@ExploringTheBlankPage⁠

Exploring the Blank Page Podcast is hosted by Emilie Hendryx and Christen Krumm

*Instagram: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm⁠

*TikTok: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm

Oct 21, 202342:58
048: Kellie M. Parker

048: Kellie M. Parker

Kellie M. Parker grew up traveling the United States and Europe as a US Navy brat. She attended high schools in three states and was too nerdy to ever sit at the cool kids’ table. With books as her most reliable companion, it was only a matter of time before she decided to write one herself. She has college degrees in biology and nautical archaeology but has always found her sense of adventure most satisfied by a great story.

Kellie lives in West Michigan with her husband and four kids. She writes about brave, smart teens trying to figure out who they are and where they belong. When she’s not plotting her next fictional murder, she can be found baking, gardening, tackling DIY home projects, and reading to her kids.

If I could tell aspiring writers one thing, it would be to not quit. It’s the difference between the ones who make it and the ones who don’t. If you really want it, don’t give up. — Kellie M. Parker

Connect with Kellie M. Parker on her website (https://kelliemparker.com/) and Instagram (@kelliemparker)

Mentioned in This Episode

Thin Air | Kellie M. Parker

Kellie’s Writer Resources

David Copperfield | Charles Dickens

Bellegarde | Jamie Lilac

Dust | Kara Swanson

Shadow | Kara Swanson

Remember Me Gone | Stacy Stokes

Small Favors | Erin A. Craig

Did you know you can support this podcast? Support this podcast by clicking the "Support" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage or by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform!

Don't miss anything from Exploring the Blank Page Podcast

*Instagram: ⁠@exploringtheblankpagepodcast⁠

*YouTube: ⁠@ExploringTheBlankPage⁠

Exploring the Blank Page Podcast is hosted by Emilie Hendryx and Christen Krumm

*Instagram: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm⁠

*TikTok: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm

Oct 13, 202334:07
047: Sara Ella

047: Sara Ella

Once upon a time, Sara Ella dreamed she would marry a prince and live in a castle. Now she spends her days homeschooling her three Jedi in training, braving the Arizona summers, and reminding her superhero husband that it's almost Christmas (even if it's only January). Sara is the author of the Unblemished trilogy, Coral, and The Curious Realities duology. Sara loves fairy tales and Jesus, and she believes “Happily Ever After is Never Far Away.”

Quoting my friend Nadine here,  just because writing is hard, doesn’t mean it’s wrong. — Sara Ella

Connect with Sara on her website (saraella.com) and Instagram (@saraellawrites)

Mentioned in This Episode

Exploring the Blank Page episode 011

Unblemish Trilogy | Sara Ella

Coral | Sara Ella

The Wonderland Trials | Sara Ella

The Looking Glass Illusion | Sara Ella

Hunger Games | Suzanne Collins

Warcross | Marie Lu

Ready Player One | Ernest Cline

Jessica Brody’s Fast Draft Method Course

A Time to Die | Nadine Brandes

Suspended in the Stars | EA Hendryx

Harney and Son’s Paris Tea

Did you know you can support this podcast? Support this podcast by clicking the "Support" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage or by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform!

Don't miss anything from Exploring the Blank Page Podcast

*Instagram: ⁠@exploringtheblankpagepodcast⁠

*YouTube: ⁠@ExploringTheBlankPage⁠

Exploring the Blank Page Podcast is hosted by Emilie Hendryx and Christen Krumm

*Instagram: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm⁠

*TikTok: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm

Oct 06, 202342:20
046: Katherine Briggs
Sep 29, 202335:17
045: Moriah Chavis

045: Moriah Chavis

Moriah is the author of the young adult fantasy Heart of the Sea and various short stories. She is a two-time graduate from the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor’s in Liberal Arts and a Master’s in Library and Information Science. It's been said you can find perusing bookstores, attempting to persuade strangers to read her favorite books, oscillating between watching the Lord of the Rings trilogy (her husband’s favorite) or Harry Potter (hers), and keeping her books from the clutches of her two feisty cats.

My goal is to write a story that shows hope. —Moriah Chavis

Connect with Moriah on her website and Instagram (@moriah.chavis)

Mentioned in This Episode

Heart of the Sea | Moriah Chavis -

The Anatomy of Story | John Truby - https://amzn.to/3rqk9G9

Twilight | Stephanie Meyer

Sharper Than Thorns Anothogy

The Never Tales Anthology

Not If I Can Help It | Carolyn Mackler

Depths of Atlantis | Hannah Carter

The Dragaon’s Promise | Elizabeth Lim

And Maybe They Fall in Love | Emma Hills

Outlander | Dianna Gabaldon

Midnight Sun | Stephanie Meyer

Did you know you can support this podcast? Support this podcast by clicking the "Support" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage or by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform!

Don't miss anything from Exploring the Blank Page Podcast

*Instagram: ⁠@exploringtheblankpagepodcast⁠

*YouTube: ⁠@ExploringTheBlankPage⁠

Exploring the Blank Page Podcast is hosted by Emilie Hendryx and Christen Krumm

*Instagram: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm⁠

*TikTok: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm


Sep 25, 202340:04
044: Tabitha Caplinger

044: Tabitha Caplinger

Tabitha Caplinger gets way too emotionally invested in the lives of fictional characters, whether it’s obsessing over a book or TV show, or getting lost creating her own worlds. Tabitha is the author of The Chronicle of the Three Trilogy, The Wolf Queen, and, most recently, The Wayward. She is a lover of good stories and helping others live chosen. When she’s not writing book words, she’s reheating her coffee, binging a new show, or teaching God’s Word to students. Tabitha, her husband, and two beautifully sassy daughters desire to be Jesus with skin on for those around them. They live to love others...and for Marvel movies.

Do your research and do your homework on the business of writing. —Tabitha Caplinger

Connect with Tab on her website (https://www.tabithacaplinger.com/) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/Tab_Caplinger/)

Mentioned in This Episode

The Wolf Queen | Tabitha Caplinger

The Wayward | Tabitha Caplinger

Tabitha's Writing Playlists

Holier than Thou | Jackie Hill Perry

Shadowcast | Crystal D Grant

The Hawthorne Legacy | Jennifer Lynn Barnes

To Kill a Mockingbird | Harper Lee

Go Set a Watchman | Harper Lee

Did you know you can support this podcast? Support this podcast by clicking the "Support" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage or by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform!

Don't miss anything from Exploring the Blank Page Podcast

*Instagram: ⁠@exploringtheblankpagepodcast⁠

*YouTube: ⁠@ExploringTheBlankPage⁠

Exploring the Blank Page Podcast is hosted by Emilie Hendryx and Christen Krumm

*Instagram: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm⁠

*TikTok: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm

Sep 22, 202339:38
THE MARGINS: Current Reads

THE MARGINS: Current Reads

What Emilie's Reading

Soul of Smoke | Caitlyn McFarland

Fourth Wing | Rebecca Yarros

The Aeronaut's Windlass | Jim Butcher

Divine Rivals | Rebecca Ross

Recruit of Talionis | CJ Milacci

Fugitive of Talionis | CJ Milacci


What Christen's Reading

What the River Knows | Isabel Ibanez

This Might Get Awkward | Kara McDowell

The Headmaster's List | Melissa de la Cruz

Curses and Other Buried Things | Caroline George

Did you know you can support this podcast? Support this podcast by clicking the "Support" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage or by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform!

Don't miss anything from Exploring the Blank Page Podcast

*Instagram: ⁠@exploringtheblankpagepodcast⁠

*YouTube: ⁠@ExploringTheBlankPage⁠

Exploring the Blank Page Podcast is hosted by Emilie Hendryx and Christen Krumm

*Instagram: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm⁠

*TikTok: ⁠@createexploreread⁠ | ⁠@christenkrumm


Aug 30, 202314:44
THE MARGINS: Networking at a Conference
Aug 23, 202312:50
THE MARGINS: Getting Ready for a Conference
Aug 16, 202314:36
THE MARGINS: What to do Post Conference?
Aug 16, 202310:29
Introducing The Margins

Introducing The Margins

Get ready for The Margins! First episode dropping soon.

Aug 14, 202301:00
043: Emilie and Christen on Deadlines
Jul 07, 202341:07
042: Anna Augustine
Jun 30, 202326:43
041: AJ Skelly
Jun 23, 202355:40
040: Ashley Bustamante
Jun 16, 202327:30
039: Brittany Eden

039: Brittany Eden

Whimsical, magical, and so sweet, you guys are going to love our conversation with Brittany Eden. She was so fun to chat with! We talked about how she got started writing, her new books Wishes and Hearts, and touch a little on her time in the circus — yes, the actual circus! Sit back and enjoy this conversation with Brittany Eden.


The blank page is beautiful. — Brittany Eden


A former Circus dweller, Brittany writes lyrical stories of heart transformation with a timeless, feminine voice. Find out more about her stories at brittanyeden.com and avoid social media pressure by subscribing to her newsletter From Eden To Eternity, where, as a free gift, you can choose from either a personalized book recommendation, a customized playlist for your work-in-progress or favorite book, or *most popular* constructive feedback on the first page of your manuscript!


Connect with Brittany on her website (https://brittanyeden.com/) and Instagram (@brittanyedenauthor)!


Mentioned

Wishes | Brittany Eden

Hearts | Brittany Eden

Orthodoxy | G.K. Chesterton

Rouge Pursuit | BL Dean

Twilight | Stephanie Meyers

Pride and Prejudice | Jane Austen

Odyssey | Homer

Calculated | Nova McBee

Echo North | Joanna Ruth Meyer

Wind Daughter | Joanna Ruth Meyer

Rebel Seoul | Axie Oh

The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea | Axie Oh


If you've enjoyed this podcast, please leave us a rating or review. You can support this podcast by clicking the "support" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage or by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform!


Jun 09, 202328:44
038: Tamara Girardi

038: Tamara Girardi

We have been wanting to get Tamara Girardi on the podcast for over a year now, and we are so excited she's chatting with us today! Not only is Tamara an awesome author, but she also happens to be an English teacher. In this episode, she shares how so teaches her creative writing classes, a little about her new duology with WiseWolf, and she may mention her favorite cupcake flavor that will have everyone's mouths watering. We know you are going to enjoy this episode!


"It is so critical that you surround yourself with people who will push you and lift you up." — Tamara Girardi


Tamara Girardi writes books for children and teens. Her award-winning debut young adult novel, Gridiron Girl, tells the story of Julia Medina who quits the volleyball team to compete against her boyfriend for the starting quarterback position. Three additional sports novels in the Iron Valley Vikings series followed in 2022. Above the Fold is the first book in Tamara’s second series, all about teens exploring their dreams and their true selves through exhibits at a popular, mardi-gras-esque hotspot called Carnivalesque. Above the Fold released in January of 2023, and its sequel, Behind the Mask followed in February, both from Wise Wolf Books. Tamara’s debut board book, Why, Daddy? Why? was named a 2022 Editor’s Pick by Amazon. Also an academic, Tamara is a college English professor. She lives in a suburb of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with her husband and four adorably rambunctious children.


Connect with Tamara on her website (https://www.tamaragirardi.com/), TikTok (@TamaraGirardiAuthor), Instagram (@girarditamara), Facebook (@TamaraGirardiAuthor), and Twitter (@TamaraGirardi)


Mentioned

Above the Fold | Tamara Girardi

Behind the Mask | Tamara Girardi

Iron Valley Series | Tamara Girardi

Calculated Series | Nova McBee

Why Daddy Why? | Tamara Girardi

Save the Cat | Blake Snyder

Mayo Angelo Poetry Collection


If you've enjoyed this podcast, please leave us a rating or review. You can support this podcast by clicking the "support" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage or by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform!

Jun 02, 202344:41
037: Becky Dean
May 26, 202328:35
036: Candace Kade
May 19, 202341:05
035: Haylie Hanson
May 12, 202301:04:13
034: C.J. Redwine & Mary Weber

034: C.J. Redwine & Mary Weber

You guys are not ready for this episode. I know we say that literally every single episode, but this episode ... oh this episode. We are chatting with the powerhouse that is C.J. Redwine and Mary Weber. They share their heart behind The Writer's Sanctuary and The Red Herring Society, and they drop so much wisdom in this episode we know you are going to be itching to find your tribe and write by the end of our conversation.


"There's only so much of the blank page you can stare at before you have to grab hold of it and jump in." — Mary Weber

"There is no one right way to produce the book, as long as you produce the book." — CJ Redwine


C.J. Redwine is a New York Times bestselling author, public speaker, publishing and marketing consultant, ghostwriter, and coach with twelve years experience in teaching all areas of creative writing, publishing, and marketing. She’s especially passionate about helping writers level up their skills and their careers. She’s a diehard fan of going to the movies, keeps a 6-foot-tall Loki figure in her office, and will debate the merits of Batman over Superman with anyone she meets. She once punched herself in the face on a ride at Disneyland. She doesn’t recommend it.


Connect with C.J. on Instagram @cjredwine.


Mary Weber is a freelance editor, marketing strategist, and ghostwriter who's worked with NYT bestselling authors, Hollywood film producers, the Big 4 publishers, and multi-million dollar entrepreneurs on fiction, nonfiction, developing powerhouse marketing plans, author brands, film pitches, and proposals. She’s also the bestselling author of six books, including the Storm Siren Trilogy and the award-winning To Best the Boys. In her spare time, Mary sings 80’s hairband songs to her three muggle children and lives in California, where she and her husband stalk aging superstars while wearing fanny packs and sweatpants.


Connect with Mary on her website at ⁠MaryWeber.com⁠ or on Instagram @MaryWeberAuthor.


Mentioned on This Episode

The Writer's Sanctuary

YouTube of Cj + Mary Playing Beanboozled

The Red Herring Society

Lux

The University

The Guest List | Lucy Foley

One Dark Window | Rachel Gillig

How I'll Kill You | Ren DeStefano

Find Him Where You Left Him Dead | Kristen Simmons


If you've enjoyed this podcast, please leave us a rating or review. You can support this podcast by clicking the "support" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage or by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform!

May 05, 202301:03:34
033: Scott Reintgen

033: Scott Reintgen

We are so excited about this episode with New York Times Bestselling author Scott Reintgen. We have been long been fans of Scott's and were floored when he agreed to come on Exploring the Blank Page as a guest. He shared the amazing story of how his newest book, A Door in the Dark, almost wasn't, how he keeps going after rejection and gives some amazing tips on juggling both an author career and fatherhood. You are going to be so fired up to write after listening to this episode. Enjoy!


"I start every writing day with yesterday." — Scott Reintgen


Scott Reintgen is an author of science fiction and fantasy books.


He wrote the Nyxia trilogy, the Ashlords series, the Talespinners series, and The Problem with Prophecies. His next book is the young adult fantasy thriller—A Door in the Dark.

He began his career as an English and Creative Writing teacher in North Carolina. He strongly believes that every student who steps into the classroom deserves to see themselves, vibrant and victorious and on the page. It’s his hope to encourage a future full of diverse writers.


You can find him working in coffee shops, speaking in schools around the country, or teaching writing courses online.


He currently lives in North Carolina with his wife Katie, and their three wild children.


Connect with Scott on his website, Instagram @reintgen, and Twitter @Scott_Thought


Mentioned on This Episode

Nyxia | Scott Reintgen

A Door in the Dark | Scott Reintgen

Twitter thread on how A Door in the Dark almost wasn't

Ashlords Duology | Scott Reintgen

Scott's Interview on Authors & Audiences

The Problem with Prophecies | Scott Reintgen

The Drama with Doomsday | Scott Reintgen

Under the Whispering Door | TJ Klune

House on the Cerulean Sea | TJ Klune

Scott's Writing Class


If you've enjoyed this podcast, please leave us a rating or review. You can support this podcast by clicking the "support" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage or by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform!

Apr 28, 202349:49
032: Hayley Reese Chow

032: Hayley Reese Chow

You are going to love our chat with Hayley Reese Chow! She's had such amazing adventures and we loved hearing about them in this episode. She dropped so many truths and encouragement that we know you are going to walk away from this episode ready to write!


"Learn to rest. Not to quit." — Hayley Reese Chow, author of Into the Churn


Hayley Reese Chow is the author of Odriel's Heirs, the 2020 winner of the Florida Author Project, Wishing Shelf Book Award Bronze Medalist, and 5th place finalist in the 2021 Book Blogger Novel of the Year Awards. She is also the author of Into the Churn, a romantic YA sci-fi coming from Whimsical Publishing in April 2023.


Until recently though, she’s mostly done a lot of things that have nothing at all to do with writing. Her hat collection includes mother, wife, engineer, USAF veteran, reservist, four-time All-American fencer, 100-mile ultramarathoner, triathlete, world traveler, book inhaler, and super nerd.


Hayley currently lives in Florida with two small wild boys, her long-suffering husband, and her miniature ragehound.


But at night, when the house is still, she writes.


Connect with Hayley Reese Chow on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @HayleyReeseChow


Mentioned in This Episode

Into the Churn | Hayley Reese Chow

Odriel's Heirs | Hayley Reese Chow

Save the Cat | Blake Snyder

Revenge of the Queen Rose | Valinora Troy

The Wretched of Muirwood | Jeff Wheeler

Defend the Dawn | Brigid Kemmerer


If you've enjoyed this podcast, please leave us a rating or review. You can support this podcast by clicking the "support" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage or by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform!

Apr 21, 202331:48
031: CJ Milacci

031: CJ Milacci

If you've been thinking about kickstarting a project, this episode is for you! Even if you aren't thinking about Kickstarter, you'll still get so much out of this episode. We're chatting with author and Kickstarter queen CJ Milacci. CJ shares so much wisdom on writing and Kickstarter — you don't want to miss this episode!


"Writing is such a nice, enjoyable, crazy process." —CJ Milacci, author of Recruit of Talionis

CJ Milacci writes stories for teens and young adults with heart-pounding action and hope. As a referee, she’s always relearning the hard lesson that it’s impossible to make everyone happy, and she’s discovered that stories can be found anywhere, even on a lacrosse field. She’s passionate about crafting stories of good overcoming evil, finding hope in the midst of seemingly hopeless circumstances, and true acceptance.


Connect with CJ and sign up for her newsletter on her website: https://cjmilacci.com or follow her on Instagram @cjmilacci


Mentioned in this Episode

Recruit of Talionis

Fugitive of Talionis Kickstarter

The Snowflake Method | Randy Ingermanson

The Story Equation | Susan May Warren

Save the Cat | Blake Snyder

Silver Bounty | Victoria McCombs

The Change | Bradley Caffee

Renegade Skyfarer | RJ Metcalf

Calculated Series | Nova McBee


If you've enjoyed this podcast, please leave us a rating or review. You can support this podcast by clicking the "support" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage or by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform!

Apr 14, 202338:01
030: Welcome to Season Three

030: Welcome to Season Three

We're officially back with season three! We give a quick update on where in the world we've been for the past two years (a lot of all over the place) and gush about what we've been reading and what we have coming up this season (we're so excited!)


We hope you enjoy this episode (and season) as much as we have.


Have a question for Emilie or Christen? Leave us a message by clicking the "message" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage


Mentioned in This Episode

Suspended in the Stars | EA Hendryx

Expired Promise | Emilie Haney

On the Golden Cliffs | Christen Krumm

Ashlords | Scott Reintgen

Nyxia | Scott Reintgen

The Damned | Renee Ahdieh

The Beautiful | Renee Ahdieh

Stars and Smoke | Marie Lu

Critical Mass | Daniel Suarez

Secrets So Deep | Ginny Myers Sain

The Inheritance Games series | Jennifer L. Barnes

I Must Betray You | Ruta Sepetys

Activated | Nova McBee

Rebel Brave and Brutal | Shannon Dittemore

Skyward series | Brandon Sanderson

Nothing More to Tell | Karen McManus

Defy the Night | Brigid Kemmerer

Defend the Dawn | Brigid Kemmerer

Beyond the Wand | Tom Felton

Namesake | Adrienne Young

The Last Legacy | Adrienne Young

Saint | Adrienne Young

A Million Junes | Emily Henry

Hello Girls | Emily Henry & Brittany Cavallaro

Good Girls Guide to Murder | Holly Jackson

Good Girl, Bad Blood | Holly Jackson

Five Survive | Holly Jackson

Vampire Hearts and Other Dead Things | Margie Fuston


If you've enjoyed this podcast, please leave us a rating or review. You can support this podcast by clicking the "support" button at anchor.fm/exploringtheblankpage or by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform!


Apr 14, 202331:41
029: Suspended in the Stars Kickstarter Update

029: Suspended in the Stars Kickstarter Update

A special Suspended in the Stars Kickstarter update! Today is the last day to back Emilie's Kickstarter project — and we've almost unlocked every single stretch goal!


Check out the Kickstarter + Back the Project — https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/eahendryx/suspended-in-the-stars


Have a question? You can email us at exploringtheblankpage@gmail.com

Connect with us on Instagram: https://instagtram.com/exploringtheblankpagepodcast

Mar 31, 202308:52
028: Suspended in the Stars Kickstarter Part 3

028: Suspended in the Stars Kickstarter Part 3

Welcome to part three of this special three-part series on the Kickstarter for EA Hendryx's (Emilie!) Suspended in the Stars.

In this episode, we answer all the Kickstarter questions!

Check out the Kickstarter + Back the Project Here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/eahendryx/suspended-in-the-stars


Some Other Fun Things Mentioned in This Episode

Suspended in the Stars Planet Stickers — https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/eahendryx/suspended-in-the-stars/posts/3761105

How to Back a Kickstarter Campaign YouTube Video — https://youtu.be/6PJ-oYulmfE

Recruit of Talionis | CJ Milacci — https://amzn.to/42xkQv5

Back Fugitive of Talionis by CJ Milacci on Kickstarter — https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/cjmilacci/fugitive-of-talionis-a-young-adult-sci-fi-dystopian-novel


Have a question? You can email us at exploringtheblankpage@gmail.com


Connect with us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/exploringtheblankpagepodcast


Mar 22, 202324:29
027: Suspended in the Stars Kickstarter Part 2

027: Suspended in the Stars Kickstarter Part 2

Welcome to part two of this special three-part series on the Kickstarter for EA Hendryx's (Emilie!) Suspended in the Stars.

In this episode, we dive into more about Kickstarter — what it is, how it works, and how YOU can back this project!

Check out the Kickstarter + Back the Project Here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/eahendryx/suspended-in-the-stars

Have a question? You can email us at exploringtheblankpage@gmail.com

Connect with us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/exploringtheblankpagepodcast

Mar 15, 202335:47
026: Suspended in the Stars Kickstarter Part 1

026: Suspended in the Stars Kickstarter Part 1

Welcome to this special three-part series on the Kickstarter for EA Hendryx's (Emilie!) Suspended in the Stars. 

In this episode, we dive into the inspiration behind this project, a little about Kickstarter, and how you can get your hands on Suspended in the Stars before it is even in stores! 


Check out the Kickstarter + Back the Project Here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/eahendryx/suspended-in-the-stars

Have a question? You can email us at exploringtheblankpage@gmail.com

Connect with us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/exploringtheblankpagepodcast

Mar 10, 202321:53
025: Holiday Special with Tracy Andreen

025: Holiday Special with Tracy Andreen

Tracy Andreen was born in Southern California but raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a B.A. in Journalism and Professional Writing then promptly moved to Los Angeles where she spent many years in the world of film development, employed at Amblin/DreamWorks and Mandalay Pictures, among others. She began her paid writing career when she took it upon herself to revise some properties in development at Mandalay and ultimately left that side of the film world to pursue writing full time. In her spare time, she enjoys staring at her fantasy football lineup, hiking, gardening, perusing homes on Zillow, and making some amazingly cool candles that you totally would buy if only she would at long last set up that website.

For links on everything we mentioned in this episode visit: https://www.exploringtheblankpage.com/

Dec 10, 202140:05
024: Holiday Special with Chelsea Bobulski

024: Holiday Special with Chelsea Bobulski

Chelsea Bobulski was born in Columbus, Ohio, and raised on Disney movies, Broadway musicals, and Buckeye pride. She graduated from The Ohio State University with a degree in history and promptly married her high school sweetheart. As a writer, she has a soft spot for characters with broken pasts, strange talents, and obstacles they must overcome for a brighter future. She now lives in Northwest Ohio with her husband, her daughter, and one very emotive German Shepherd/Lab mix. 

For links on everything we mentioned in this episode visit: https://www.exploringtheblankpage.com/

Dec 09, 202133:31
023: Holiday Special with Rektok Ross

023: Holiday Special with Rektok Ross

Rektok Ross is the pen name of Liani Kotcher, a trial attorney turned award-winning young adult author and book blogger. An avid reader since childhood, Liani writes exactly the kind of books she loves to escape into herself: exciting thrillers with strong female leads, swoon-worthy love interests, and life-changing moments. She graduated from the University of Florida School of Journalism and obtained her juris doctorate at the University of Miami School of Law. Originally from South Florida, she currently splits her time between San Francisco and Los Angeles with her husband, stepkids, and her dogs. You can find her online just about anywhere at @RektokRoss, as well as on her website, www.RektokRoss.com, where she blogs about books and writing.

For links on everything we mentioned in this episode visit: https://www.exploringtheblankpage.com/

Dec 08, 202131:43
022: Holiday Special with Tif Marcelo

022: Holiday Special with Tif Marcelo

Tif Marcelo is a veteran US Army nurse and holds a BS in Nursing and a Master’s in public administration. She believes and writes about the strength of families, the endurance of friendship, heartfelt romances, and is inspired daily by her own military hero husband and four children. She hosts The Stories to Love Podcast, and is the USA Today bestselling author of In a Book Club Far Away, Once Upon a Sunset, The Key to Happily Ever After, which was a Target Diverse Book Club pick, The Holiday Switch, and the Heart Resort and Journey to the Heart series. She and her books have been featured in The Today Show, Shondaland, Real Simple Magazine, The Asian Journal and more! Her website, which includes a link to her newsletter, is www.TifMarcelo.com

For links on everything we mentioned in this episode visit: https://www.exploringtheblankpage.com/

Dec 07, 202132:21
021: Exploring the Blank Page Holiday Special

021: Exploring the Blank Page Holiday Special

Merry Christmas! We are so excited to be back for a mini holiday season. This week we will be releasing an episode every day interviewing YA authors about their holiday novels! 

Grab a cup of your favorite holiday drink and enjoy this episode! 

For links on everything we chatted about in this episode visit: https://www.exploringtheblankpage.com/

Dec 06, 202131:15
020: Writing Update & Reflections

020: Writing Update & Reflections

We have come to the end of season 2! Emilie and Christen give a quick writing update (they are busy writers!) + reflect over what they learned this season.

As always, for links to what we chatted about in this episode, visit: exploringtheblankpage.com

Jun 25, 202127:47
019: Lori Langdon
Jun 11, 202130:13
018: Lani Forbes
Jun 07, 202127:21
017: Jennifer Lindsay

017: Jennifer Lindsay

We are super excited to introduce you to author and editor, Jennifer Lindsay! We had so much fun chatting with Jennifer — plus she give amazing advice on what editors wished authors would know! 

For links on everything we chatted about in this episode, visit: https://www.exploringtheblankpage.com/

May 22, 202133:07
016: Nadine Brandes

016: Nadine Brandes

We had so much fun recording this conversation with Nadine Brandes! We laughed pretty much the entire time! Hope this episode brings a smile to your face (and Nadine dropped so much wisdom on productivity and writer care!)

As always, for links to what we chatted about in this episode, visit: exploringtheblankpage.com 

May 14, 202124:49
015: Caroline George

015: Caroline George

This week we had so much fun chatting with the one and only Caroline George! We talked travel, writing as a career, and Caroline gave a little sneak peek into what's coming up next! 

As always, for links to what we chatted about in this episode, visit: exploringtheblankpage.com

May 07, 202128:11
014: Olivia Smit

014: Olivia Smit

We had a blast talking about productivity and writer care with Olivia Smit. She had some amazing tips for making sure you're using your time in the best possible way. You'll want to grab a copy of her book, Seeing Voices!

 As always, for links to what we chatted about in this episode, visit: exploringtheblankpage.com

Apr 30, 202130:56