
The Authors Porch
By The Authors Porch
Just as the best stories unravel through engaging conversations, we've designed this platform as the epicenter of impactful literary exchanges. A place where words, in all their glory, come alive through captivating conversations that spark inspiration, creativity, and deep connections.
The Authors Porch is not just a name; it's a beacon for authors and readers alike. Think of it as a meeting place where ideas meld, stories take flight, and voices—often unheard—find an eager audience.
www.theauthorsporch.com


S4 E14 - Pros and Cons of KDP Select
Are you better off enrolling your book in KDP Select, or should you go wide and distribute across multiple platforms?
In this episode of The Authors Porch Podcast, we dive deep into the pros and cons of KDP Select, what genres thrive on Kindle Unlimited, and when it might be smarter to go wide. Understanding the differences can help you make the best choice for your author career.
✅ KDP Select: What It Is & How It Works – Exclusive perks like Kindle Unlimited, promotional tools, and regional royalties
✅ The Pros & Cons of KDP Select – The benefits of exclusivity vs. the risks of limiting your distribution
✅ Going Wide: The Benefits & Challenges – Reaching global readers across multiple platforms and expanding beyond Amazon
✅ Which Genres Do Best in KDP Select? – Why Romance, Mystery, Sci-Fi, and Fantasy authors often stick with KU
✅ Which Genres Thrive on Multiple Platforms? – Why Non-Fiction, Literary Fiction, and Niche Markets may benefit from a wide strategy
✅ How to Make the Best Choice for Your Author Career – Balancing visibility, royalties, and long-term growth
📺 Claire Fraise’s Video: "KDP Select Pros & Cons – Is It Worth It?" – A must-watch for authors debating exclusivity vs. wide publishing! 🎥 Watch here:https://youtu.be/g0UIJ4XcBYs
📚 Monica Leonelle & Russell Nohelty – The Future of Publishing – Learn how successful indie authors think ahead and adapt to the evolving publishing industry. Explore their resources at: writermba.com
Don’t miss this episode! Whether you’re just starting out or looking to optimize your publishing strategy, this discussion will help you navigate KDP Select, wide distribution, and everything in between.
🎙️ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform!
📩 Have thoughts on this topic? Drop a comment or send me a message—I’d love to hear about your experience!
#TheAuthorsPorch #KDPSelect #GoingWide #SelfPublishing #KindleUnlimited #IndieAuthor #BookMarketing #PublishingTrends

S4 E13: Writing What You Love vs. Writing What Sells – Finding the Balance
As an author, do you write for passion or profit—or is there a way to do both? In this episode of The Authors Porch Podcast, we dive into the ongoing debate of writing what you love versus writing what sells.
📖 What You'll Learn:
✅ The difference between writing for creativity and writing for market trends
✅ How to balance passion with profitability
✅ Why understanding your audience matters
✅ Practical strategies to merge what you love with what readers want
✅ How to set realistic expectations for success
Whether you're looking to turn your writing into a full-time career or just want to share stories straight from the heart, this episode will help you navigate the path that best aligns with your goals.
🎧 Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform!
🔗 Learn more at:www.heauthorsporch.com
📚 Need help with your author platform & marketing? Visit On The Page Author Services for expert guidance!
#TheAuthorsPorch #WritingCommunity #IndieAuthor #AmWriting #WritingTips #SelfPublishing #AuthorBranding #BookMarketing

S4 E12 - Murder without a Duck - Claudia H Long
Welcome to another exciting episode of The Authors Porch Podcast! This week, CJ sits down with Claudia Hagadus Long, a talented and versatile author known for her captivating historical novels and engaging mystery series. They dive into Claudia's latest book, Murder without a Duck, and explore her journey as a writer, her inspirations, and what makes her stories resonate with readers.
In This Episode:
📖 Meet Claudia Hagadus Long
- Author of 8 novels spanning historical fiction and mystery.
- Lawyer, weaver, passionate cook, and storyteller living in Northern California wine country.
- Her work includes historical novels set in 1690s Mexico, contemporary Zara and Lilly mysteries, and a novella about women in the 1920 San Francisco labor movement.
🦆 Murder without a Duck
- The first book in Claudia's new Simpato Mystery Series.
- An "edge-of-cozy" mystery featuring Salvia Devine, a temporarily-suspended lawyer navigating scary and funny twists that are sure to delight readers.
- Claudia shares her inspirations, writing process, and the unique blend of humor and suspense in her storytelling.
🌟 Writing Wisdom and Insights
- Balancing multiple genres and weaving personal passions into writing.
- Crafting characters and settings that transport readers into rich, immersive worlds.
- Building a writing career that spans historical fiction and mystery while staying true to her creative voice.
Where to Find Claudia Hagadus Long:
📚 Website: claudiahlong.com
📖 Facebook: @claudialongauthor
📷 Instagram, Threads & BlueSky: @claudiahlong
Connect with The Authors Porch:
🌐 Website: theauthorsporch.com
📧 Newsletter: Join Here
📱 Social Media: @TheAuthorsPorch on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter

S4 E11 - A Journey Through Historical Romance with Patricia Bates
Welcome to The Authors Porch Podcast!
This week, CJ Ives Lopez sits down with Canadian author Patricia Bates, a writer with a deep passion for historical romance, world-building, and storytelling.
From her early days as a grade school writer to her success as a multi-genre author, Patricia shares her love for weaving captivating tales and exploring new worlds.
Meet Patricia Bates
- Discover Patricia's journey from a young storyteller to a seasoned author who loves history and romance.
- Learn how her hobbies, like gardening and crafting period costumes, inspire her creative process.
Exploring Historical Romance
- Dive into the intricacies of writing historical romance—how Patricia brings authenticity and passion to her stories.
- Get a behind-the-scenes look at how she researches and builds compelling worlds for her readers.
Beyond Romance: Hexes and Oh's Anthology
- Hear about Patricia's latest work, Hexes and Oh’s Anthology, and her experience contributing to this exciting collection.
- Link to the anthology: Hexes and Oh’s Anthology on Amazon.
Patricia’s Diverse Pen Names and Bookstore
- Patricia Bates’ Historical Romance Website: www.patriciabates.com
- Patricia’s Bookstore: Sultry Reads
- Hexes and Oh’s Anthology: Buy on Amazon
If you’re a fan of historical romance, passionate storytelling, or multi-genre authorship, this episode is for you! Patricia Bates shares her insights, inspirations, and experiences as an author who loves crafting timeless tales.
Connect with Us:
- Website: www.theauthorsporch.com
- Twitter: @TheAuthorsPorch
- Instagram: @TheAuthorsPorch
- Facebook: The Authors Porch
#TheAuthorsPorch #HistoricalRomance #AuthorInterview #WritingCommunity #PatriciaBates

S4 E10 - Your Author Platform – Focusing on Readers Over the Noise
This week, host CJ Ives Lopez delves into the art of building an author platform that truly connects with readers. She discusses the pitfalls of chasing virality, the importance of authenticity, and how fiction can be a refuge in a chaotic world. Whether you're a debut author or a seasoned writer, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you create a meaningful and reader-focused platform.
What is an Author Platform?
- Your author platform is your public presence—spanning your website, social media, and newsletters. Learn how to use it to build trust and showcase your unique voice.
- Explore the three pillars of an impactful platform:
The Risks of Virality:
- Understand why viral posts often prioritize short-term attention over long-term loyalty.
- Discover how viral content can clash with the safe and healing space fiction readers seek.
Why Reader-Focus Matters:
- Fiction offers an escape, a place of peace, and a chance for readers to explore emotions. Learn why staying focused on your readers’ needs is critical to building trust and engagement.
Practical Tips for Building a Reader-Focused Platform:
- Authenticity: Be true to your voice. Readers connect with who you are.
- Stay Niche: Write for your audience and stay aligned with your genre.
- Plan Long-Term: Build trust and loyalty by prioritizing consistency over trends.
- The Authors Porch Website: www.theauthorsporch.com
- OTP Author Services: Need help building your author platform or creating a consistent brand? Visit www.otpauthorservices.com.
"As authors, we have the power to create worlds that inspire and heal. Let’s ensure our platforms reflect that same sense of peace and creativity for our readers."
Connect with Us:
- Website: www.theauthorsporch.com
- Twitter: @TheAuthorsPorch
- Instagram: @TheAuthorsPorch
- Facebook: The Authors Porch
#TheAuthorsPorch #AuthorPlatform #WritingCommunity #BookMarketing #FictionWriters

S4 E9 - Interview with Sean Bridges
In this episode of The Authors Porch, CJ Ives Lopez returns to her interview series after a year-long hiatus, bringing insightful conversations back to the literary world.
This week, CJ sits down with Sean Bridges, an award-winning screenwriter and author whose talent and dedication to storytelling shine through his remarkable works.
Sean Bridges, a Texas Hill Country resident, has a multifaceted career in screenwriting and writing.
He's not only a Stephen King Dollar Baby—an exclusive group of creatives permitted by Stephen King to adapt his work—but has also made waves with his festival-winning audio production of One for the Road.
His most recent screenplay, Beginner’s Luck, is already an award-winner in 2024 at both the San Antonio and Austin Film Festivals.
This episode highlights his journey, his unique approach to storytelling, and his upcoming novel, Gunbarrel Highway. Set to release on November 20th in paperback, e-book, and audiobook formats, Gunbarrel Highway promises to captivate readers and listeners alike.
CJ thoroughly enjoyed reconnecting with the world of author interviews and bringing you Sean’s inspiring story. Be sure to check out Sean’s work, dive into his latest novel, and explore his contributions to audio productions and screenwriting.
In This Episode:
- Sean Bridges discusses his career journey, from award-winning screenwriting to his recent ventures in novel writing.
- Insight into Sean’s experience as a Stephen King Dollar Baby with his adaptation of One for the Road.
- Behind the scenes of his upcoming novel Gunbarrel Highway, set to release November 20th.
- A look at his award-winning screenplay Beginner’s Luck and his passion for storytelling.
Links to Sean’s Work:
Connect with Us:
- Website: The Authors Porch
- Twitter: @TheAuthorsPorch
- Instagram: @TheAuthorsPorch
- Facebook: The Authors Porch
#TheAuthorsPorch #SeanBridges #GunbarrelHighway #AuthorInterviews #WritingCommunity #BookRelease #CreativeWriting #Podcast

S4 E8 - How to Create an Author Bio That Resonates with Readers
How to Create an Author Bio That Resonates with Readers
Episode Summary:
In this episode, CJ Ives Lopez dives into the art and importance of crafting an author bio that goes beyond listing credentials to truly connect with readers. Your author bio serves as more than an introduction—it’s an opportunity to share your journey, establish your authority, and create an emotional connection with your audience.
CJ breaks down the key elements of a resonant author bio and offers practical tips on how to make it engaging, relevant, and consistently up-to-date.
Key Takeaways:
The Importance of an Author Bio
- An author bio is the reader's first impression of who you are. It’s not just a list of accomplishments but a glimpse into your personality and the motivations behind your writing.
- Your bio should strike a balance between authority and authenticity, showcasing your experiences while inviting readers to get to know the person behind the words.
Establishing Authority While Building a Personal Connection
- Sharing your accomplishments gives you credibility, but weaving in personal anecdotes and unique experiences adds authenticity, making your bio more relatable and engaging.
- A great bio explains not just why you're qualified but why you care about what you write.
Becoming a Familiar Name, Not Just an Author
- An author bio serves as the beginning of a relationship with your readers. You’re not just introducing yourself as a writer; you’re positioning yourself as someone they can relate to and look forward to hearing from again.
- Use your bio to share pieces of your journey, inspiration, or hobbies that connect with your readers' interests.
Connecting Emotionally: Let Readers Know Why You’re Worth Their Time
- Readers invest more than money; they invest time and emotional energy when they pick up a book. Your bio should help them feel confident that this investment is worthwhile.
- By sharing personal struggles, triumphs, or motivations, you build an emotional bond that goes beyond credentials.
Demonstrating Consistency and Credibility Across Platforms
- Ensure your bio reflects a consistent brand across various platforms, whether on social media, your website, or book covers. Consistency builds trust and helps readers feel connected to a reliable, authentic voice.
Tailoring Your Bio to Meet the Reader’s Needs
- Customize your bio for your target audience. For example, readers of women’s fiction may appreciate insights into your family life, while fantasy readers might be more interested in your passion for world-building.
Avoiding Filler and Staying Relevant
- Share details that connect to your writing and audience. Avoid oversharing unrelated personal information that may distract from the core message.
- Update your bio periodically to include new accomplishments or shifts in your writing focus.
Encouragement for Writers
- Your author bio is an evolving piece of your writing identity. Keep it updated to reflect your growth and connect with readers authentically.
Make sure to revisit your author bio regularly. Does it still reflect who you are and where you are in your writing journey? If not, it's time for an update!
Mentioned Links:
Connect with Us:
- Website: theauthorsporch.com
- Twitter: @TheAuthorsPorch
- Instagram: @TheAuthorsPorch
- Facebook: The Authors Porch
#TheAuthorsPorch #AuthorBio #WritingCommunity #AuthorLife #Branding #PersonalConnection

S4 E7 - The Power of Storytelling in Branding for Authors
In this episode of The Authors Porch, CJ Ives Lopez dives into The Power of Storytelling in Branding for Authors.
Storytelling isn’t just for the pages of your book—it’s a tool that helps build an author’s brand, allowing readers to connect with you on a deeper level. CJ covers how to use your personal experiences, struggles, and triumphs to craft an authentic narrative that resonates with your audience and strengthens your brand.
What is Storytelling in Branding?
- Learn how to weave your personal life and experiences into your author brand to create a narrative that resonates with your readers.
- CJ shares personal stories about how her writing connects to her real-life experiences, from nightmares turning into love stories to drawing inspiration from her children.
Building a Relatable Author Persona
- Authenticity matters! Learn how to connect with your readers beyond the book by sharing your journey, struggles, and inspiration.
- Example: How authors like Stephen King and J.K. Rowling use their personal stories to form deeper connections with readers.
Using Storytelling in Marketing and Social Media
- Explore how to tell your story across various platforms—social media, newsletters, and websites—while keeping things authentic.
- CJ explains how sharing her daily life, including Elvis the dog, creates a personal connection with her audience.
Creating an Emotional Connection with Readers
- Emotional storytelling leads to lasting relationships with readers. CJ discusses how sharing personal victories and failures can build this bond.
- Example: CJ opens up about publishing her first book at 40, embracing imperfections, and moving forward despite doubts.
Keeping Your Story Consistent Across Platforms
- Consistency is key to credibility. Learn how to keep your storytelling aligned across social media, newsletters, and websites.
- CJ shares advice from her military background on maintaining consistency and how it’s helped her establish credibility as an author.
Remember, storytelling isn’t just for your books—it’s how you connect with your readers. So go out there and tell your story, because no one else can tell it like you!
Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share your thoughts on this episode of The Authors Porch.
Connect with Us:
- Website: theauthorsporch.com
- Twitter: @TheAuthorsPorch
- Instagram: @TheAuthorsPorch
- Facebook: The Authors Porch
#TheAuthorsPorch #AuthorBranding #StorytellingInBranding #WritingCommunity #AuthorLife #PersonalBranding

S4 E6 - Marketing for Authors
Season 4, Episode 6: Marketing for Authors
In this episode of The Authors Porch, CJ Ives Lopez dives deep into the world of book marketing for indie authors.
We cover a wide range of marketing strategies, from social media engagement and paid ads to book events and trailers. If you’re looking to effectively market your book, tune in for practical advice, helpful resources, and proven methods to reach your target audience.
Topics Covered:
Social Media Marketing
Platforms: Key platforms include Instagram, Twitter (now X), Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Pinterest. Emphasize tailoring content to each platform to better connect with different audiences.
Engagement: Build a community through consistent engagement, responding to comments, and using book-related hashtags.
Content Types: Utilize teasers, cover reveals, behind-the-scenes, author Q&A sessions, and promotional graphics/videos to keep your audience engaged.
Collaborations: Partner with book influencers or "Bookstagrammers" to broaden your reach.
News Outlets and Press Releases
Reach out to local newspapers, TV stations, or radio programs to promote your book.
Shoutout to Rob The Warrior Strategist: Get help with press releases for wider reach. Learn more at Rob The Warrior Strategist.
Silver Dagger Book Tours: See great results from organized book tours. Check them out at Silver Dagger Book Tours.
Advertising (Amazon, Facebook, Google, BookBub)
Amazon Ads: Maximize your book's visibility through Amazon Advertising. Learn about Bryan Cohen’s Author Ad School at Best Page Forward.
BookBub: Use BookBub for targeted ads, and leverage their blog for insightful marketing advice. Learn more at BookBub.
Dave Chesson's YouTube: Learn more about ads and indie publishing from Kindlepreneur's YouTube Channel.
Word of Mouth Marketing
Street Teams: Build a small group of dedicated readers who can help spread the word about your book.
Reader Reviews: Use reader reviews on Amazon, Goodreads, or social media to generate buzz. Learn about effective Goodreads giveaways at Alessandra Torre’s Website.
ARC Copies: Send out Advance Reader Copies (ARCs) to generate early buzz and reviews.
Blogging and Guest Posts
- Create an author blog with updates, writing tips, book excerpts, and personal stories.
- Write guest posts on popular blogs or industry websites.
- Arrange virtual book tours to increase visibility and engage readers.
Podcasts
- Guest Appearances: Pitch yourself as a guest on book-related podcasts.
- Start Your Own Podcast: Share insights on writing, storytelling, or your book's genre.
- Cross Promotion: Collaborate with other content creators for mutually beneficial exposure.
Email Marketing
- Newsletter: Build an email list and provide value through updates, giveaways, and exclusive content.
- Reader Magnets: Offer a free short story or novella to entice readers to join your mailing list.
Goodreads Marketing
Giveaways: Run Goodreads giveaways to increase visibility.
Reader Groups: Connect with your target audience by participating in or creating Goodreads groups.
Book Events and Signings
Local Bookstores: Partner with bookstores for in-person or virtual signings.
Book Fairs and Conventions: Attend literary events to connect with readers and network with fellow authors.
Paid Promotions via Book Promotion Sites
- Use BookBub Featured Deals and other sites like Freebooksy and Bargain Booksy to boost your book during promotions.
Book Trailers
Create engaging book trailers for social media, ads, or your website. For help creating high-quality trailers, visit BookBrush.
Special Resources Mentioned:
Monica Leonelle and Russell Nohelty: Experts in indie publishing at Writer MBA.
Black Château Enterprises: For full-service author marketing, visit Black Château Enterprises.
The Inkfluence: For Kickstarter campaigns, book boxes, and swag fulfillment, check out The Inkfluence.
Book Promo Shoutout: At the start of this episode, CJ gives a shoutout to Purpose by Timothy McKenney An environmental thriller featuring Emerald Enterprises and their tough decisions in a high-stakes world. Check it out here: Purpose on Amazon.
- Tune in to hear practical strategies for marketing your book.
- Let us know what marketing strategies have worked for you—share your thoughts on social media!
Connect with Us:
- Website: theauthorsporch.com
- Twitter: @TheAuthorsPorch
- Instagram: @TheAuthorsPorch
- Facebook: The Authors Porch
#TheAuthorsPorch #BookMarketing #IndieAuthors #AuthorLife #PurposeBook #WritingCommunity #SocialMediaForAuthors #SelfPublishing #MarketingTips #EnvironmentalThriller #DaveChesson #Kindlepreneur #GoodreadsTips #BookPromotion

S4 E5 hilling Thrills: A Review of Never Cry Alone by Tyrell Plair
In this episode, we dive into the gripping and chilling novel Never Cry Alone by Tyrell Plair. Based on a real-life case, this story is told from two perspectives: the killer and the detective determined to bring them to justice. Tyrell’s ability to pull you inside the heads of his characters makes this a wild and eerie ride. If you’re a fan of dark thrillers with intense emotional depth, this is one book you won’t want to miss.
Highlights:
- How Never Cry Alone presents dual perspectives that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
- The way Tyrell Plair’s storytelling pulls readers into the mind of a killer and a detective.
- The gripping, descriptive narrative that makes this book a must-read for fans of crime thrillers.
- Trigger warnings to be aware of, but trust me, the suspense is worth it.
Want to Read the Full Review?
Check out the full review on The Author's Porch: Never Cry Alone Book Review.
Ready to Grab Your Copy?
Get Never Cry Alone on Amazon: Buy the Book.
Connect with Me:
- Visit The Authors Porch for more reviews and recommendations.
- Follow us on social media
- Follow the podcast for more in-depth book discussions and author interviews.

S4 E4 - Ad Platforms, Indie Authors, and Staying Ahead of the Game
In This Episode:
In today’s episode, CJ Ives Lopez discusses the ever-evolving landscape of indie author marketing, focusing on how Amazon is now distributing ads across multiple platforms. Learn how these changes impact authors and why it's crucial to stay updated on new advertising strategies to ensure your books reach the right audience.
Topics Covered:
- The importance of understanding how Amazon and other platforms are expanding their ad reach.
- Tips on how to adapt to changes in the indie author world to maintain visibility and sales.
- Promoting your books effectively in a constantly shifting digital environment.
Special Promo:
At the beginning of the episode, we shout out Maya Daniels, whose book Black Hand is on sale for just $0.99 on September 22nd. Don't miss this exciting deal! Grab Black Hand here.
Resources Mentioned:
- Author Ad School – Learn the latest ad strategies with Best Page Forward.
- Russell Nohelty & Monica Leonell – Explore more insights at Writer MBA.
- Dave Chesson – Stay on top of indie publishing with the resources at Kindlepreneur.
- Listen to the full episode for tips on navigating new ad strategies, and make sure to check out the exciting promotions for Maya Daniels and other indie author resources!
- Stay connected and stay informed about the latest changes in the self-publishing world.
Publishing Schedule: New episodes every Thursday morning.
Connect with Us:
- Website: theauthorsporch.com
- Twitter: @TheAuthorsPorch
- Instagram: @TheAuthorsPorch
- Facebook: The Authors Porch

S4 E3 - Choose Your Hard
Here are the show notes for your podcast episode featuring "Choose Your Hard" with a shout-out to the book Tinker's Affliction by Dana Encarnacion:
The Authors Porch Podcast - Season 4, Episode 3: Choose Your Hard
Welcome to another episode of The Authors Porch! In today’s show, CJ Ives Lopez explores the empowering concept of "Choose Your Hard." Life presents us with challenges, whether we’re writers facing a blank page or navigating the complexities of personal goals. This episode is all about understanding that no matter what, you have to choose your hard—so why not choose the one that brings you closer to your dreams?
In This Episode:
Explore the mindset of "Choose Your Hard" and how it can positively impact your writing journey.
Learn practical strategies for overcoming writers' unique challenges, from tackling writer's block to balancing writing with everyday life.
Hear personal stories and insights from CJ on how embracing difficult choices can lead to growth and success.
Book Shout-Out: "Tinker's Affliction" by Dana Encarnacion
Read Tinker's Affliction by Dana Dana Encarnacion, a fellow Veteran's kid.
Get introduced to Tinker Thompson, a world-renowned child protégé whose inventions have wowed the world. As she faces the uncertainty of aging out of the foster care system, Tinker's life takes a surprising turn when a family offers her the chance she's always dreamed of. But this is no ordinary family, and they might just have secrets that rival her own.
Dive into this compelling and imaginative family, identity, and adventure story. Check out Tinker's Affliction here and discover a world where nothing is quite as it seems!
Read Now: https://amzn.to/3AXmeOv
Tune in for an inspiring episode that will motivate you to embrace your hard choices and move forward with determination.
Share your experiences with choosing your hard and how you overcome the challenges you face in your writing journey!
New episodes every Thursday morning.
Connect with Us:
Website: theauthorsporch.com
Twitter: @TheAuthorsPorch
Instagram: @TheAuthorsPorch
Facebook: The Authors Porch
#ChooseYourHard #TheAuthorsPorch #WritingCommunity #AuthorLife #SelfGrowth #Podcast

S4 E2 - Inspiring Insights from Everyday Moments
Season 4, Episode 2: Inspiring Insights from Everyday Moments
In episode 2, CJ Ives Lopez dives into the art of finding inspiration in everyday moments.
Join us as we explore how small, daily experiences can spark extraordinary ideas and fuel your creativity.
In This Episode:
- CJ's personal anecdotes on how ordinary experiences have sparked creative ideas.
- The importance of mindfulness and being present in daily life.
- Practical tips and daily practices to boost creativity.
- How challenges can be transformed into opportunities for inspiration.
- Simple creative exercises to keep your imagination active.
- Engaging with listeners to share their inspirational moments.
Tune in for an inspiring episode that celebrates the extraordinary in the ordinary!
Publishing Schedule: New episodes every Thursday morning.
Connect with Us:
- Website: theauthorsporch.com
- Twitter: @TheAuthorsPorch
- Instagram: @TheAuthorsPorch
- Facebook: The Authors Porch
Hashtags: #TheAuthorsPorch #InspirationEveryday #CreativeLife #Mindfulness #BookLovers #SupportAuthors

S4 E1 - The Power of Reading
The Authors Porch Podcast - Season 4, Episode 1: The Power of Reading
Welcome back to The Authors Porch Podcast! In the Season 4 premiere, CJ Ives Lopez dives into the transformative power of reading. Join us as we explore how books can improve mental well-being, enhance cognitive skills, and offer a perfect escape from everyday life.
In This Episode:
- CJ's personal reflections on how reading has brought joy and vitality.
- The mental health benefits, cognitive enhancements, and emotional enrichment from regular reading.
- Insightful reviews of must-read books.
- Tips on how to support your favorite authors beyond just buying their books.
Tune in for an inspiring episode that celebrates the joy and impact of reading!
Publishing Schedule: New episodes every Thursday morning.
Connect with Us:
- Website: theauthorsporch.com
- Twitter: @TheAuthorsPorch
- Instagram: @TheAuthorsPorch
- Facebook: The Authors Porch
Hashtags: #TheAuthorsPorch #ReadingBenefits #BookLovers #SupportAuthors #BookReviews
Building Your Author Newsletter Like a Pro
Welcome to How to Build Your Author Newsletter Like a Pro, where we explore the art and science of creating an engaging and successful author newsletter.
In this episode, CJ shares expert advice and practical tips that every author needs to transform their newsletter into a powerful tool for connecting with readers and expanding their audience.
CJ packs actionable strategies, including how to attract new subscribers, the magic of hosting giveaways to increase engagement, crafting compelling content that your readers will love, and the undeniable reasons why having a newsletter is a game-changer for authors in today's digital age.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to revamp your existing newsletter, this episode is designed to provide you with the knowledge and inspiration to build your newsletter like a pro.
Tune in to discover how to create a newsletter that resonates with your audience and plays a crucial role in your marketing arsenal. This newsletter will help elevate your author brand and keep your readers coming back for more.
Remember to follow Ramblings of a Self-Published Author Substack by CJ Ives Lopez for more fantastic content.

S3 Episode 31 Arnold Montgomery - Battlefield Missouri
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Arnold Montgomery served thirty years in the United States Army and retired with the rank of Colonel. His tours of duty include South Korea, Irag, Germany, Fort Bragg, Washington D.C. and several Army depots.
A logistician and engineer by trade, he began writing as soon as he put down roots following his Army career. Arnold and his wife make their home on a small farm in Illinois.
Follow Arnold:
https://www.facebook.com/arnold.montgomery.3
https://instagram.com/illinoisvet99?utm_source=qr

S3 Episode 30 Tammy Cohen - Text Messages to My Son
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Tammy Cohen, has been partnering with top-tier corporate executives and entrepreneurs to develop their personal and professional brands for more than 20 years.
Today, she understands her role as a connector and sees opportunities for women to thrive and grow exponentially, which is why she founded the Women Beyond the Table; a business network with a soul.
Tammy added podcaster by launching the Beyond the Table Podcast, leveraging her ability to connect with audiences by sharing her guest’s stories and wisdom.
In her consulting work, Tammy connects her clients to their mission, vision and core values statements and utilizes her networks to develop brands. Tammy is a frequent podcast guest and speaker on topics ranging from branding to leadership
When she is not helping brands stand out or women to thrive, Tammy lives in Manhattan with her husband and 3 sons and owns Eighteen Restaurant on the Upper Eastside. Text Messages to My Sons is Tammy’s first book where she connects deeply with her family in a world of devices. It is a must read for anyone looking to build a deeper connection.
Contact: tammy@tcbrandconsulting.com
https://www.amazon.com/Text-Messages-My-Sons-Connecting/dp/B0CK3QDHT
https://www.instagram.com/Textmessagestomysons
https://www.facebook.com/Textmessagestomysons
https://tcbrandconsulting.com/text-messages-to-my-sons-connecting-de

S3 Episode 29 - Cranky Superpowers - Steven Joseph
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Steven Joseph is a first-generation American, the son of a Holocaust Survivor, a masterful attorney, seasoned negotiator, engaging speaker, award-winning author, and a long-distance runner having completed 53 marathons which include five-times at Boston and 18-time at the NYC Marathon. With a sharp sense of humor that has kept him schuckling back and forth at countless synagogues, he’s also spent many years sitting in stillness on a cushion, trying desperately to empty his mind while staring at a blank white wall at the Village Zendo. Despite his extensive life experience, he remains wise enough to acknowledge that he hasn't figured everything out — except, perhaps, for the art of effective crankiness.
Steven’s books include The Last Surviving Dinosaur: The TyrantoCrankaTsuris, The Crankatsuris Method: A Grownup Guide to Effective Crankiness, and the "Snoodles" series, which includes Snoodles, Kidoodles, Poodles, and Lots and Lots of Noodles and Snoodles in Space: A Snoodle, The Zoodle Kidoodles, and One Happy Schmoodle. His latest book, Cranky Superpowers: Life Lessons Learned from the Common CrankaTsuris Chronicles, delivers more of his signature wisdom as he continues to explore and celebrate the cranky corners of life.
Despite his long partnership with therapists and his time spent as an attorney, Steven remains grounded and approachable with a wit that is as quick as his award-winning blog is insightful. Don’t believe us? See for yourself when you visit Steven Joseph’s website. https://www.stevenjosephauthor.com/

S3 Episode 28 - Shadowland - P.L. Hampton
Join us on The Authors Porch at www.theauthorsporch.com
P. L. Hampton, an emerging dark fiction author, draws readers into a world of family, ancient artifacts, and the hidden shadows of the past. Born and raised in Seattle, Washington, Hampton now serves as a college professor while also pursuing his JD, balancing his academic pursuits with his passion for writing.
His novel, Shadowland, weaves authentic familial lore with intriguing historical truths. Inspired by real events, this gripping tale centers around the mysterious Yoruba Divination Board, an artifact that spirals Aaron Langford and his family into an inescapable path. Hampton skillfully blends fact and fiction, inviting readers to ponder the origins and workings of this central artifact while immersing them in the Langford family’s unanticipated journey.
Before turning to academia and writing, Hampton spent nearly twelve years navigating various sectors of the finance industry, gaining experiences that undoubtedly shape his richly layered narratives. Currently residing in San Diego with his wife, Tonya, he continues to explore the fascinating intersection of history and horror in his works.
Discover more about P. L. Hampton's unique storytelling and connect with him on LinkedIn.

S3 Episode 27 - The Amber Menhir - Jonathan N Pruitt
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Jonathan N. Pruitt is a lifelong educator, a former scientific researcher, and a provocative fantasy author. Rising from humble beginnings in a rural, economically disadvantaged county in Florida, he skyrocketed to academic success, earning a Ph.D. at the youthful age of 24.
Pruitt's journey took him from the concert halls as a child prodigy pianist to the globally recognized halls of esteemed universities, including the University of Pittsburgh, Princeton University, and the University of California, Santa Barbara.
However, his trajectory met turbulence with an international scandal in 2020 that questioned the integrity of his research methods.
Proving the human animal can make profound changes, Pruitt rose from the ashes of controversy to become a fantasy author.
With his debut novel, “The Amber Menhir,” Pruitt delivers biting humor, deep human insights, and a unique scientist's perspective.
His life experiences—from living in diverse corners of the world like South Africa, Namibia, Australia, and Canada to navigating the wild landscape of his career—richly inform his narratives.
In Pruitt's words, “I can be far more honest in fiction than I could have ever contemplated in nonfiction.” This theme shines within his storytelling, defying reality yet resonating with emotional truth. He makes readers question the differences between good and evil and the murky area between the two.
To learn more about Jonathan N. Pruitt's journey and his venture into the realm of fantasy literature, visit his website.
https://www.theshadowsofthemonolith.com/

S3 Episode 26 - The World Small- Kelly Anne Manuel
Join us on The Authors Porch www.theauthorsporch.com
Kelly Anne Manuel is proof you can flip things upside down and become a prolific children’s book writer. She’s here with an array of positive messages for kids with four captivating book series. There are a total of 31 books—one for each day of the month—in four un-put-downable series.
Kelly’s books meet children where they are in their journey. They are about permission and helping children see the world in both an entertaining and inspiring way.
Her titles are reversals of familiar phrases, such as “Boots Rain” rather than rain boots. By shifting perspectives, she sees things through a child’s eyes. Her energy is kinetic. Her journey as an author is uncommon, and the way children respond to her and her books is life-changing.
https://www.youtube.com/@kellyannemanuel
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/161946041-kelly-manuel

S3 Episode 25 - Cruel Lessons - Dr. Randy Overbeck
Where every great conversation happens: Grab a copy of our magazine. www.theauthorsporch.com
Dr. Randy Overbeck is an award-winning educator, author, and speaker.
As an educator, he served children for more than three decades and has turned that experience into captivating fiction, authoring the bestselling series, the Haunted Shores Mysteries, winner of nine national awards.
This fall, the Wild Rose Press will release his newest work, an atmospheric amateur sleuth mystery, CRUEL LESSONS, the first installment in a new series set in schools, “Lessons in Peril.”
He is the host of the popular podcast, “Great Stories about Great Storytellers,” which reveals the unusual and sometimes strange backstories of famous authors, directors, and poets.
He is also a speaker in much demand, sharing his multi-media presentations, “Things Still Go Bump in the Night,” “A Few Favorite Haunts,” and “Everything You Wanted to Know About Publishing” with audiences all over the USA.
As a member of the Mystery Writers of America, Dr. Overbeck is an active member of the literary community, contributing to a writers’ critique group, serving as a mentor to emerging writers, and participating in writing conferences such as Sleuthfest, Killer Nashville, and the Midwest Writers Workshop.
More info about his novels, programs, and podcasts can be found at his website www.authorrandyoverbeck.com .
randyoverbeck@authorrandyoverbeck.com
SOCIAL MEDIA CONTACTS
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorrandyoverbeck
Twitter: https://twitter.com/OverbeckRandy/media
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorrandyoverbeck/
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/randy-overbeck
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Randy-Overbeck/e/B07QQHW7DM?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1658371317&sr=8-1
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4825632.Randy_Overbeck
Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1924616/10983135
Buy Links:
https://books2read.com/u/3GGGvK

S3 Episode 23 - WriterCon in Oklahoma - CJ Ives Lopez
Hey Guys, I'm just off WriterCon in Oklahoma and want to share my experience. What a class act.
Do you have a conference you want to share with us?
www.theauthorsporch.com

S3 Episode 22 - Pitching Like a Pro - Insider Tips from the Trenches of Literary Agent Meetings
Ever wondered what it truly takes to impress a literary agent?
Join us on this special episode as we unravel the hard-learned truths from the battlefield of book pitches. From understanding the unspoken word count expectations to crafting that irresistible manuscript intro, we've got insights that could elevate your pitch game! 📚✨
🔍 Sneak Peek:
- Why meeting your word count isn't just about hitting a number.
- The big misconception about incomplete novels.
- What's in a platform, and why is it a game-changer?
- Thinking of mentioning your self-published book? Think again.
- The allure of a gripping hook.
- And many more gold nuggets!
Oh, and for those seeking a treasure trove of author resources, do not forget to check out www.theauthorsporch.com - a haven for writers! 🌐
You don’t want to miss these secrets. Whether you're a novice writer or have been in the game for a while, this episode is packed with revelations that will make you rethink and refine your strategy. Tune in and pitch with confidence! 🎉

S3 Episode 21 - Plotting Your Course - CJ Ives Lopez
Welcome to another exciting episode of The Authors Porch, where every great conversation starts. In this episode, we delve into the dynamic landscape of the busy author's world, discussing how to steer your creative ship amidst its many challenges. From finding inspiration in the mundane to embracing the power of plotting, we explore ways to keep your creative fires burning bright.
Join us as we discuss the importance of maintaining inspiration, recognizing the triggers that can dim our creative light, and the role of plotting in navigating through the chaotic seas of authorship.
We also discuss the art of discovering inspiration in our daily lives, all while fostering resilience and perseverance. Through ups and downs, every author's journey is unique, and staying inspired is the key to writing good and great stories.
Whether you're an established author or just starting, this episode will provide invaluable insights and strategies to keep your inspiration alive and your pen moving. So, get comfortable on The Authors Porch, and let's start plotting your course to sustained inspiration!"
www.theauthorsporch.com

S3 Episode 20 - Unexpected Crossroads - Tylia Flores

S3 Episode 19 - My Best Friend The Cat - Elizabeth Casanova
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Elizabeth Casanova is from a small border town deep in the South of Texas, where Space X blasts Rockets and people travel for food and music. Brownsville, Texas, is home and where she gets her best ideas.
Writing had a passion of Elizabeth’s since she was a small child when she was published in a collaborative poetry book at ten. Inspiration was not in short supply ever since; however, it took her twenty more years before she gained the courage to publish her first solo book.
“My Best Friend the Cat” book is my favorite because it means a lot to me as it’s dedicated to my first cat named Spikie. It comforts me as I know he is still with me in spirit.
https://www.facebook.com/profile.phpid=100073432954450
https://www.amazon.com/.../Elizabeth.../author/B09HZFMG6L...

S3 Episode 18 - Planet Saviors - Raymond Hunter

S3 Episode 17 - The HERO The FEAR and The Date - Rod Gilley
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Rod Gilley is a writer of Horror, Thriller, and Fantasy stories.
His debut novel will be ready for publication by the end of 2024. He is also working on a novella and writes as many short stories as time allows.
Rod's published works are "The Writer Within," a short story in the Running Wild Press Anthology 2023, and "The HERO The FEAR and The DATE" via RDG BOOKS.
Rod was named one of Fictionary's "Fabulous Five" Nov 2022 for his contributions to the community.
Throwing words at the page to see what sticks, he writes each paragraph with no idea what the next paragraph will be. Rod loves when the story takes over and tells his fingers where to go on the keyboard.
Rod lives in Northern Kentucky with his wife Cindy and their dog Boo.
See more at: https://www.rdgbooks.com/
Find Rod on Twitter: @bratrod64

S3 Episode 16 - Endless Times Vol II - Walter Steven Geeding
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Walter Stephen Geeding, ever since he ran away from home as a teen-ager to gallivant across North America with his best friend, has always been a curious man of adventure who has lived his life as wildly as the characters in his books. In fact, it is hard to separate Walter from the exploits his characters unveil on thepages of his books. At age 17, Walter was a hippie who traveled all over the nation and Canada in an old convertible. He did odd jobs – YMCA instructor, painted water towers, built homes, photo lab technician – and got himself into all kinds of brushes with the law. He even shot himself – twice – accidentally.
Eventually he turned his life around, and at the age of 38, he earned a BA in English from Missouri Southern State University. In 1996 he earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Tulsa. He became a prosecutor for McDonald County, Missouri, for eight years. Then he switched sides and spent 15 years as a defense attorney, owning and operating his law practice that specialized in criminal and civil law. He was a bar president of the 40th Judicial Circuit.
He is a born storyteller. For nearly five years he wrote poetry for the Neosho Weekly. His published books include the Endless Times series (Volume One: The Path of Kokopelli; Volume Two: Murphys Diggins); Colony trilogy (Book One: The End; Book Two: Narrations of Nui; Book Three: The Beginning); Even The Mice Get Fat (a collection of Christmas poems); and Pictures of Life; Rhyming Mind Pictures (poetic observations).
Walter is a rugged outdoorsman who enjoys hunting, kayaking, fishing, hiking, and archery. He has two children, two step-children, many ex-wives, and 14 grandchildren.
For more information, please consult: www.walterstephengeeding.com.

S3 Episode 15 - On Lonesome Roads - Dan Flanigan
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Dan Flanigan holds a Ph.D. in History from Rice University and J.D. from the University of Houston. He taught Jurisprudence at the University of Houston and American Legal History at the University of Virginia.
His first published book was his Ph.D. dissertation, The Criminal Law of Slavery and Freedom, 1800-1868. He moved on from academia to serve the civil rights cause as a school desegregation lawyer, followed by a long career as a finance attorney in private law practice. Dan became a name partner in the Polsinelli law firm in Kansas City, created its Financial Services practice, chaired its Real Estate & Financial Services Department for two decades, and established the firm's New York City office and served as its managing partner until October 2022. His legal bio may be viewed at www.polsinelli.com/professionals/dflanigan.
Taking a break from the law practice for two years, Dan and his wife, Candy, founded Sierra Tucson, a prominent alcohol and drug treatment center in Tucson, Arizona.In addition to publishing five books since 2019, he has also written stage plays including Secrets (based on the life of Eleanor Marx) and Moondog's Progress (based on the life of Alan Freed).
His novella, Dewdrops, was originally written for the stage and enjoyed a full-cast staged reading at the Theatre of the Open Eye in New York. Its director described the play as a "powerful" work about "addiction in America—addiction to drugs, alcohol, sex, danger, power, and to finding 'The Answer,' with characters that are "well drawn, real, and actors love to portray them."Dan has written a feature film screenplay of Mink Eyes and a pilot for a TV series called O'Keefe.
He serves on the Board of Directors of Childhood USA, the U.S. arm of the World Childhood Foundation, established by Queen Silvia of Sweden, working to end child sexual abuse and exploitation everywhere.
Dan divides his time among Kansas City, New York City, and Los Angeles. The scandals, schemes, and scams of American life, from Wall Street shenanigans to the Mafia, from the 1980s to the present day, provide a rich setting for an exciting new kind of detective novel, The Peter O'Keefe series, that is a blend of literary fiction and crime thriller, written by finance, bankruptcy, and banking lawyer Dan Flanigan.
He has had a front-row seat for the past four decades to the mind of the corrupt, the criminal, and the con – and employs his experience and expertise to give his action-packed books a feeling of gritty authenticity. His newest book, On Lonesome Roads, the third installment in the series, is a gripping tale with well-drawn characters, especially when it comes to Detective Peter O'Keefe, a physically scarred and emotionally battered Vietnam vet. This is serious fiction wrapped in the cloak of a hard hitting, exciting detective novel – a story that has it all – terror, murder, addiction, sex, obsession, crime, and doom, yes – but also friendship, fatherhood, integrity, duty, and sacrifice, and love.
Flanigan is a veteran practicing lawyer who gives us an insider's real-world view of the formal and informal workings of our legal system and the schemes and scams germinating in the seamy underbelly of our business world.
For more information on Dan Flanigan, please visit:https://danflaniganbooks.com/.
Check out Dan on social media:https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDanFlaniganhttps://twitter.com/_DanFlanigan

S3 Episode 14 - Backstory - William Sargent
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William Sargent is a NOVA consultant, author of 27 books about science and the environment, and a recipient of The Boston Globe's Winship Award.
In what he describes as wanderlust in his 20s and 30s, William would jump on oceanographic ships, Russian trawlers, and oil rigs and get paid to see the world.
He lives in the Boston, MA area.
For more information, please visit https://williamsargent.net/work/.

S3 Episode 13 - Beyond - Andrew Howell
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Andrew Howell wrote and illustrated his debut graphic novel, Beyond, a comedic supernatural thriller. His work earned him the 2022 eLit Awards Silver Medal Winner for Graphic Novel/Drawn in the Book Humor Cartoon category.
Howell is a storyboard artist who has worked for Pencilmation, a digital animation studio, over the past four years. He is adept at translating written stories and verbal concepts into useful drawings that can dramatically tell a story.
While drawing moved from a hobby to a passion to a vocation, Howell has developed online illustrated content for nearly a decade. He has three webcomics that have generated several million views annually. He is active in the graphic arts community, appearing at Edmonton Fan Expo, Panel One Expo, Vancouver Fan Expo, Calgary Comic Con, and Winnipeg Comic Con.
He received a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of Calgary in 2018.He also is the recipient of a Kevin O'Leary "Future Dragons" Award & Grant and the recipient of a Youth Central Grant.
His hobbies include gaming, karate, guitar, miniatures, and model-making. Howell was born, raised in, and currently resides in Calgary, Canada.He lived a few early years in Alaska. For more information, visit: www.jollybiscuit.com."I hope people feel a different perspective on life after reading my book," says Howell. "I inject a lot of philosophy and satire into my work. I consider myself an absurdist, which is basically a nihilist with a goofy mustache. My concoctions offer a made-up world so people can be happy and feel free to debate the ideas put forth in my work. I love to engage the reader with humor."
"I've always been creating and making art," says Howell. "In elementary school, I doodled in class and did not take notes. Schoolmates weighed in on how I should develop the characters and storylines. I love consuming and sharing stories, and to express myself in a very visual medium is great for getting certain ideas across."
Howell was discovered by his employer, Pencilmation, an online cartoon channel after it saw his popular Jolly Biscuit comic drawings. He now has storyboards for cartoons geared to children ages 6-12.
Social Media:
Twitter - Jolly Biscuit (@MrNubly) /
TwitterInstagram - Jolly Johnny (@jollythebiscuit) •
Instagram photos and videosFacebook (main Jolly Biscuit page) -
Jolly Biscuit | FacebookFacebook (BEYOND! page) - Beyond comic |
FacebookWebtoons - Jolly Johnny |
WEBTOON (webtoons.com)Tapas - Nubly |
Tapas CreatorTumblr - BEYOND! on Tumblr

S3 Episode 12 - Our Lying Kin - Claudia Hagadus Long
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Claudia Hagadus Long is the author of five prior novels: Josefina's Sin, The Duel for Consuelo, and Chains of Silver (a trilogy of Colonial Mexico, 1690-1753); The Harlot's Pen (women in the labor movement in 1920 San Francisco); and Nine-Tenths of the Law (two sisters, their mother, and a Nazi thief).
She is an attorney in Northern California. She lives with her husband and far too many animals.
Our Lying Kin: In this follow-up to Long's murder mystery, Nine-Tenths of the Law, Zara and Lilly are back, but their relationship has some cracks. Through the long pandemic isolation, Zara's gone from straight-laced to rigid, while Lilly, true to form, has indulged in some dubious — and not-particularly-legal — adventures.
Just as they set out to make peace with each other, a woman calls, claiming a shocking connection to their deceased father.
Zara and Lilly turn their considerable sleuthing talents toward unraveling a series of family mysteries...but their quest begins in earnest when they learn that the murderer and thief who nearly killed Lilly has escaped from custody.
Filled with humor, sibling rivalry, and love, Zara and Lilly's return is a haunting, quirky, rollicking story of the ravages of the pandemic and the power of family.
For more information, please visit
https://www.kasvapress.com/product/our-lying-kin/.
Connect with Claudia on social media:
https://www.facebook.com/ClaudiaHLong/

S3 Episode 11 - Next of Twin Jass Aujla

S3 Episode 10 - Bashert Larry Goldsmith
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Larry G. Goldsmith is an author, financial sleuth (forensic CPA), and attorney.
His professional experiences are woven into believable and authentic storylines.
He applies his real-life occupation of courtroom dramas and negotiating with the IRS into many of his novels. Goldsmith has published two novels, Bashert and Marc Marci.
He is happily married, living with his wife in the Second City (Chicago). Being a baseball fan, every novel contains a baseball tidbit woven into each story. When not working or writing, he is riding his bicycle or recalling younger days when he kayaked down dangerous whitewater rivers and played volleyball.
For more information on Larry, visit:
https://larrygoldsmithauthor.com/.
Connect with Larry on social media:
https://www.linkedin.com/.../larry.../overlay/photo/
https://www.goodreads.com/.../show/123641786-larry-goldsmith
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In the late sixties, the world is experiencing a counter-revolution, rebelling against the devastating war in Vietnam and cultural norms.
During these days of rage, the Soviets and U.S. seek to end the nuclear arms race. The Nixon administration promises to support a free trade agreement as a bargaining chip while ignoring Soviet human and religious abuses.
In New York City, a young criminal attorney enters the fray after his shotgun wedding to the Rebbe's daughter. His father-in-law is a world-renowned clandestine leader seeking religious freedom for millions of Soviet citizens. The White House prosecutes the Rebbe as their scapegoat, so the U.S. Soviet trade agreement passes Congress.
The Nixon administration will use every legal tool orchestrated by an unscrupulous U.S. prosecuting attorney to imprison the Rebbe and destroy the credibility of his movement. Millions of lives rest on the outcome of the trial. The world watches, waiting for a courtroom verdict, as two young lovers and an old Rebbe battle two world superpowers.

S3 Episode 9 - Beyond Heaven's Gates Daisy Paige
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Daisy Paige was born in August of 1973 and lives in a small Texas town.
Although she has tried to move away many times, she always finds herself back in this little town.
She has three adult children. Two daughters that live nearby, and a son, the youngest, is in the Military.
They have all made her a very proud parent. She resides with her husband; they have been happily married for twelve years and have a clever little toy rat-terrier, Snoopy. Socializing with friends and relatives is her favorite thing to do.
She is a member of a local church where her uncle is the pastor. She likes to begin her days thanking the one who has shown her that he has been there for her in all her experiences and carried her through the most difficult ones, that being God our Father in Heaven above, who has never left her alone.
Follow Daisy on Instagram Daisypaige332

S3 Episode 8 - Mid-flight Lisa Wilkes
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Mid-Flight - Lisa Wilkes
Lisa Wilkes has spent 13 years as a flight attendant, jetting across the globe and collecting inspiration for her writings.
Her debut novel, Flight Path, is a fast-paced romance laced with serendipitous encounters. This book follows a daydreaming stewardess as she learns to navigate a new terrain: unconditional love.
In her second novel, Mid-Flight, Lisa transports readers to 2038. A flight attendant begins to unravel after her best friend is killed in a plane crash. In the throes of unspeakable grief, she uncovers a political ploy to decimate one-fifth of the population. To combat this sinister plan, she must risk everything, including her breathtaking new romance.
Lisa's writing is provocative and timely, focusing on societal issues and powerful internal conflict. Flight Path's readers will appreciate Mid-Flight's emphasis on hope and redemption, while newcomers to Lisa's work will be drawn to the power of her storytelling.
- When Roe v Wade made abortion illegal, Lisa provided free resources for women even though she could've been arrested. The resources include the ways you can get around the law and go over to the border to Oklahoma.
- She is based in Florida and has been a flight attendant for 13 years.
- In her spare time, she flies and does animal rescue missions.
- Since 2019, she has also fostered animals, including 29 cats, 2 dogs, 2 birds, and a bunny until they can go to a good home or a sanctuary.
- She's vegetarian.
- She makes arts and crafts in an etsy store and donates profits to rescue animals. There are thousands of abandoned animals in Florida.- She's an author. She's donating the proceeds to animal rescue centers.
- She's also written the novel Flight Path. Both books are about her experiences as a flight attendant.
- She has a degree in social work. Her books address humanitarian issues and diversity to give marginalized people a voice.
https://lisamichellewilkes.com/
Mid-Flight blurb:
2037 was a really bad year.
Lexi Brennan’s best friend was killed in a plane crash. Two weeks later, an intergalactic crisis threatened the fate of humanity. Authorities responded by launching a genocide.
Lexi opposed this vicious attack. Then again, what could she do? An eccentric flight attendant drawn to glamorous trysts, she felt powerless to incite change.
Until tragedy struck close to home. Suddenly, Lexi was forced to acknowledge the widespread atrocities. She uncovered a network of lies along with an opportunity to restore basic human rights. To protect others, Lexi would have to launch a movement that could destroy everything important to her, including her promising new romance.

S3 Episode 7 - Gertrude The Cow - Lisa Baker
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Gertrude the Cow Gets in Trouble Somehow - Lisa Baker
Lisa Baker was an elementary music and Jr. High, and culinary arts teacher for 15 years, until the end of the 2021/2022 school year.
She and her husband retired early, sold their house, and are permanently traveling.
In 2020 she published two children's books and has been (not)patiently waiting for her illustrator to finish book two of the first series. In the meantime, Lisa decided to take on the illustrations for her newest book, about to come out this month, "Mom, What's That Sound?" She drew those pictures while traveling in Albania in December.
Lisa's and her set out in August and have been to 10 countries. During their travels, she has come up with ideas for three more books.
Lisa shares articles on why reading and rhymes are important to early readers, as well as the importance of music education, on her blog."Gertrude the Cow Gets In Trouble Somehow," is the first book, with book two coming out this year.
Lisa's Newest Book That She Also Illustrated!
Can you remember when you were a kid, feeling scared because there was a noise you couldn't identify in the house? will be out soon.
www.readingrhythmsandrhymes.com

S3 Episode 6 - Poetic Expressions in Nursing - Susan J Farese
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Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, a native of New Jersey, is the owner/ president of SJF Communications, San Diego, CA.SJF Communications, originally established in 2002 in San Jose, CA, provides communications services including Public Relations, Publicity, Marketing, Websites, Filmmaking, Acting, Social Media, Writing and Public Speaking, Photography, Mentoring, Coaching and Legal Nurse Consulting services.
Ms. Farese has diversified experience in health care/communications, including clinical nursing practice, management, education/training, research and consulting. She has a Masters Degree in Nursing in Adult Health from Seton Hall University (NJ) and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from Widener University (PA).
Susan has presented numerous continuing education classes, seminars, and keynotes. Susan is the author of the book Poetic Expressions in Nursing…Sharing the Caring (1993 and 2021), currently teaches ‘Capturing Your Creativity with Haiku‘ workshops and has published poetry and articles on a variety of topics..
In addition to her being on the advisory board of San Diego Film Week, Susan is a member of SAG-AFTRA, American Legion Post 43, Veterans in Media & Entertainment, San Diego Writers Ink the San Diego Press Club, the Southern California Writers Association, the Army Nurse Corps Association. Since 2017, Susan has been a Volunteer Mentor in the San Diego State University Aztec Mentor Program.
List of clients at https://sjfcommunications.com/list-of-clients/
Contact SJF Communications at: 858-353-7488 or info@sjfcommunications.com.
Linktree link: https://linktr.ee/Sjfcommo

S3 Episode 5 - Alaska Blaze - LoLo Paige
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LoLo Paige is an award-winning author and former wildland firefighter whose debut novel, Alaska Spark, has received several awards for best indie romance. Her second book, Alaska Inferno, was a finalist for best indie romance in the 2022 Kindle Book Review Awards.
Alaska Spark and Alaska Inferno have ranked No.1 on the Amazon Bestseller Lists for action adventure and romantic suspense in the U.S., Canada, and Australia.
The true story about LoLo's fire crew escaping a runaway wildfire won an Alaska Press Club award and inspired her debut novel, Alaska Spark.
The third book in her wildland fire series, Alaska Blaze, will drop on April 30, 2023. In addition to her action-adventure romance firefighter series, LoLo also writes romantic suspense thrillers and romantic comedies.
Other books under her romance umbrella are, Hello Spain, Goodbye Heart, a recently released travel romance, and Irish Thunder, to be released later in 2023 by The Wild Rose Press.

S3 Episode 4 - THE TA LĘ SERIES - Yessoh GD
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Yessoh grew up in a small city on the Ivory Coast, also known as Côte d'Ivoire, officially the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire, a country on the southern coast of West Africa. He believes that books have the power to change people for the betterment of the whole. When he is not day-dreaming about stories and the world, he is a visual effects artist and a gamer. Yessoh did the visual effects for several studio projects, including Netflix's Lost In Space.
He studied telecommunications in Morocco and then moved to India for six years, where he transitioned to study computer generated imagery. He specialized in 3-D animation and visual effects. Yessoh has worked on many films, television shows, and commercials, including for Disney, Netflix, and Apple TV.He currently lives in Vancouver, Canada. For more information on Yessoh, visit: https://www.thetaleseries.com/.

S3 Episode 3 - Friend of the Devil - James Irving
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James V. Irving was born and raised in Gloucester, Massachusetts. He is a University of Virginia (UVA) graduate majoring in English. He holds a law degree from the College of William and Mary and is a member of the bars of Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Massachusetts.
After completing his undergraduate studies at UVA, Mr. Irving spent two years as a private detective in Northern Virginia. He pursued wayward spouses, located skips, investigated insurance claims, and handled criminal investigations. In his early years as a lawyer, he practiced criminal law, which along with his investigative experience and trial work, informs this fictional account of Joth Proctor.

S3 Episode 2 - Abstraction - Sam Weis
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Sam Weis is an accomplished abstract painter, a 12-string guitarist/recording artist, and an award-winning songwriter.
She grew up in Eastern Iowa and studied Fine Arts at The University of Iowa. Sam has toured as a guitarist with two rock bands and enjoys a successful solo music career. Sam currently lives in Iowa.
Abstraction is her first novel.

S3 Episode 1 - Tales of the C.O.C Raids - Josh Plato
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Josh Plato earned his philosophy degree from Lake Forest College before enlisting in the United States Marine Corps, where he served for 14 years.
While enlisted, he would write grandiose stories for his Marines during training exercises that became a fun tradition for his platoon at the end of hard days to keep morale up.
When Josh left the Corps to spend more time with his family, he began writing some of these stories to create an irreverent veteran humor-based series to begin his self-publishing journey.
He has published two books on Amazon with plans to write in fiction and non-fiction.

S2 Episode 50 - Tuscany Bay Books - Richard Paolinelli
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Richard Paolinelli began his writing journey as a freelance writer in 1984 and gained his first fiction credit as the lead writer for the first two issues of the Elite Comics sci-fi/fantasy series, Seadragon.
After nearly a quarter of a century in the newspaper field, in 2010, Richard retired as an award-winning sportswriter and returned to his fiction writing roots. Since then, he has written several award-winning novels, and two non-fiction sports books, and has appeared in over 20 anthologies, including eight of the 11-book Tuscany Bay Books’ Planetary Anthology Series and five Sherlock Holmes collections.
He served as a co-host on LA Talk Radio’s, The Writer’s Block from 2016 thru 2022 and is the co-founding Publisher of Tuscany Bay Books. He currently resides in Western Colorado.

S2 Episode 49 - Noble Betrayed - Dylan Brennan
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Dylan Brennan is a 16-year-old writing prodigy living in London. An avid reader, student and musician, Dylan has recently proven his academic excellence with his outstanding GCSE grades, obtaining a phenomenal eleven grade 9s. An aspiring author, ‘Noble: Betrayed’ is Dylan’s first work and will hopefully launch a promising writing career experimenting with and forming
innovations in a wide variety of literary genres.

S2 Episode 48 - Raspas Con Mi Con Grandpa - Eliza Garza
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Eliza Garza is a speaker and entrepreneur in South Texas, where she owns and operates a Mexican street eats business specializing in raspas! Eliza is passionate about her Hispanic heritage and is proud to integrate it into the many facets of her life. She believes that part of a child’s pathway to empowerment and authenticity is identifying, understanding, and embracing their culture at a young age so they can be prouder of who they are.
Eliza is the founder of Adventure in a Cup, a program that provides children with the opportunity to learn the principles of entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and goal setting by practicing with their own raspa stand for a day. Eliza enjoys spending time with her family, which includes her spoiled poodle named Brinkley, being an active member of her community, and hosting collaborative and empowering events in her spare time.

S2 Episode 47 - Sh*t Isn't a Dirty Word - Karin Nahmani
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SH*T isn't a Dirty Word - Karin Nahmani
Karin is very passionate about what she does.
Karin holds a Bachelor in Science and credentials as a Naturopathic Doctor from Medi College in Israel.
She has worked as a Certified Colon Hydrotherapist since 2001 and has owned and operated Pure Center since 2006.
She is a Certified Massage Therapist and Instructor as well as a Certified Doula.

S2 Episode 46 Me and Mr. Monks - Dawn Blair
Me and Mr. Monks - Dawn Blair
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Nurse overcomes Lyme disease with her rescue dog's help.
Human-Animal Relationship Awareness Week is observed annually in the second week of November. This year, the Week extends from November 13 -19. It was created to help us realize the importance of the connection we share with our pets. Nurse & author Dawn Blair knows the value and importance of that special connection. As she shared it with her 7lb rescue dog, Mr. Monks. Not only did she save his life but he saved hers. Her book, Me And Mr. Monks is a tribute to him and all that he meant to her.
Local nurse, Dawn Blair was diagnosed with Lyme disease, and to say it took a toll on her would be putting it mildly. For 4 years, Dawn dealt with fatigue, crippling migraines, chronic insomnia, loss of balance, dizziness, brain fog, neuropathy, and open sores/ulcers over her body and face that would not heal. Physically beaten down to the point where she was contemplating suicide, Dawn turned to her rescue dog, Mr. Monks for comfort. And Mr. Monks delivered.
Dawn has been featured in numerous news outlets with her most recent appearance being on ABC Portland. Would you be interested in speaking with her?