Avsnitt
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Hey everyone! In this episode, I’m excited to introduce two amazing storytellers and writers to the show, Jodie Anders and Eric Rosswood. This week we are discussing their collaboration writing Queer Cheer and why it was so important to them to represent the queer teen community. We discuss identity, book bans, and the difference that teens are making in the queer community. Jodie shares a “News Announcement” from their book Queer Cheer, about two teens who are on a mission to remove a book ban. Tune in for a great episode!
IN THIS EPISODE:
[2:02] Eric and Jodie introduce themselves and describe their work. [3:18] Eric describes how he and Jodie came together on their project Queer Cheer. [5:37] Why is representing queer teens important? [8:32] What is causing book bans to be on an all time high? [12:08] Does the uncertainty around being queer and identity change as they get older vs. being a teen? [16:08] Jodie shares what the excerpt is that she will be reading. [18:08] We hear a fictional piece from the book, Queer Cheer.KEY TAKEAWAYS:
There is nothing wrong with who you are as a person. You are loved, you are valuable, you are important. By demonstrating differences in race, sexuality, gender identity and sexism, those who are working through their identity can find similarities with others, and realize that they are not alone. It can be eye opening to look at your identity and how you behave around different types of people, from work to school to spending time with friends, seeing who you show up as can help determine who you truly are.Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode, to receive the ‘News Announcement’ from the book Queer Cheer, referred to in the fiction section of the podcast, and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora
Fiction Credits:
Written by Jodie Anders & Eric Rosswood
Read by Jodie Anders
GUEST RESOURCES:
Jodie Anders' Twitter
Jodie Ander's Website
Jodie Anders' LinkedIn
Jodie Ander's Instagram
Eric Rosswood's Facebook
Eric Rosswood's Instagram
Eric Rosswood's Website
Queer Cheer Book Website
Students Protecting Education
HOST RESOURCES
Website
LinkedIn
Tiktok
Instagram
Facebook
Twitter (X)
Substack
Threads
LinkTree
BIO:
Jodie is a multi-talented artist whose work spans the mediums of acting, writing, videography, editing, and graphic design. As a Jewish bisexual creator who struggled as a teen, Jodie focuses on celebrating diversity and promoting youth empowerment. She currently serves as the Publicity and Communications Director for the youth non-profit California Rainbow Girls, where she's spent over two decades mentoring and guiding teens in confidence and leadership skills. She is the co-author of Queer Cheer: Activities, Advice, and Affirmations for LGBTQ+ Teens and the producer of "Let's Talk about Leadership, Service and Sisterhood," a podcast by and for teens.
Eric Rosswood is an author and commentator on LGBTQ+ issues including civil rights, parenting, marriage, and politics. He has led panels on LGBTQ+ parenting issues for organizations such as the Family Equality Council and the Modern Family Alliance.
His bestselling book, Journey to Same-Sex Parenthood, won numerous awards including the best Parenting/Family/Relationships book in the IAN Book of the Year Awards, the best Parenting book in the Readers’ Favorite Book Awards, and the best LGBTQ Non-Fiction book in the International Best Book Awards. His picture book, Strong, won the Stonewall Honor from the American Library Association.
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations
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Hey everyone! Welcome to this week's episode of the True Fiction Project. Today I’m honored to talk with Sathya Saran and learn her story about rising in the editorial world in India that was typically dominated by men. Sathya shares her experience in journalism and explains how she turned around and brought success to the magazine’s Femina India and Me Magazine for the DNA, Daily News and Analysis. Tune in to learn how she flew high, even when her wings were clipped.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[2:16] Sathya shares how she got started with her career path. [8:10] What led to hostility that Sathya experienced in journalism? [9:07] Who is Dr. Mulk Raj Anand and what did meeting with him lead to? [10:34] What was so important about the magazine Femina? [11:55] Sathya shares how she turned Femina magazine around. [18:20] What happened after Sathya left Femina? [21:43] Sathya shares her journey of writing her first book. [23:13] What was the Me Magazine for the DNA, Daily News and Analysis? [28:52] Sathya shares what led her to focus full time on her books. [30:50] Sathya discusses her journey of sharing with others how to write.KEY TAKEAWAYS:
If you love what you do, and do it with confidence and do it with integrity, it will reward you in some way. Take a chance on yourself! Sathya went outside the box, challenged the norm, and created wild success. Fly high, even if your wings are clipped!Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora
Fiction Credits:
Read by Sathya Saran
GUEST RESOURCES:
Sathya Saran's Twitter
Sathya Saran's Instagram
Sathya Saran's LinkedIn
HOST RESOURCES
Website
LinkedIn
Tiktok
Instagram
Facebook
Twitter (X)
Substack
Threads
LinkTree
BIO:
Best known for her long association with Femina, which she edited for 12 years, Sathya Saran is currently Consulting Editor with Penguin Random House India.
Sathya Saran is also the author of a diverse variety of books. The Dark Side reflects her love of the short story, while the critically acclaimed biographies, Ten Years with Guru Dutt Abrar Alvi's Journey; Sun Mere Bandhu Re The Musical World of SD Burman and Baat Niklegi toh Phir The Life and Music of Jagjit Singh bear testimony to her love of cinema and music.
Sathya has also written the hugely appreciated biography of Pt Hariprasad Chaurasia.
Sathya teaches fashion journalism at NIFT Mumbai, Kangra and Srinagar. She has been a stage actor with Veenapani Chawla.
Passionate about writing, she conceptualised and curates the first of its kind Writers Conclave titled The Spaces between Words the unfestival sponsored by JSW at Kaladham near Hampi.
Sathya has written a tv serial titled Kashmakash on marital problems.
Her column in Femina and Me magazine is now continuing to gain new fans as a guest column in Dainik Jagran. She also writes a column for the New Indian Express.
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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Hey everyone! Welcome to this week's True Fiction Project. India's celebrating its 78th Independence Day, and we've got a treat for you. A few years back, Shukla Lal shared her Partition story (which we have linked to below). Today, I'm excited to continue that thread with her niece and my lifelong friend, Miel Sahgal.
Miel talks about growing up with her inspiring grandfather, his love for yoga, and how he influenced her essay "Balancing Act." At the end of the episode Miel shares her touching essay which hones into the story of her grandfather and her upbringing. Don’t miss it!
IN THIS EPISODE:
[4:30] Miel shares how and why she wrote the essay Balancing Act. [6:28] Why did Miel start with her grandfather as a starting point?[11:16] What changes or makes things different from where or how or who you descended from to where you grew up in? [14:25] Miel and Reenita share their experiences around ritualistic living. [17:49] Why did Miel’s grandfather promote independence with women in the family? [19:31] How did yoga bring Miel further into her culture in a different way?[21:09] What was the connection her grandfather had with her son? [22:48] Did her grandfather’s relationship with younger friends impact his long lifespan? [24:20] Why is the essay called Balancing Act?[26:15] Where can you read more of Miel’s work? [27:42] We hear the essay Balancing Act by Miel Sahgal.KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Yoga, pronounced yog, means to yoke or unite, and wellness comes not just from contortions, but from the integration of mind, body, and spirit; the enduring ancient teachings apply to everyone. Miel’s lesson from her grandfather was showing that where you live or what you leave behind is not nearly as important as what you carry inside. Part of the fun of being alive is learning and growing. Spend your time listening to stories of those older and younger than you, learning from your culture and others, and continuing to experience all life has to offer.Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora
Fiction Credits:
Written and read by Miel Sahgal
Balancing Act in the Hamilton Arts & Letters
RESOURCES:
Books by Miel Sahgal
S2 EP 4 – India at 75: A special “Partition Story” with Shukla Lal, author of Rano & Phulo Episode
HOST RESOURCES
Website
LinkedIn
Tiktok
Instagram
Facebook
Twitter (X)
Substack
Threads
LinkTree
BIO:
Miel Sahgal writes about nature, education, and contemporary world society. She serves on the Advisory Board of the Sanctuary Nature Foundation, where she was previously Managing Editor of Sanctuary Asia and conducted events for children and educators. Miel was born in India, and has co-authored a children’s book on Mumbai as well as a travel book on Maharashtra. She now lives in Southern Ontario, Canada.
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
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Welcome to this week's episode of the True Fiction Project! I am honored to have author and poet, Bhakti Mathur join the show. Bhakti is the author of two children’s series titled Amma, Take Me and Amma, Tell Me, which were inspired by exploring new places with her children. Aside from writing, Bhakti is also a bibliotherapist, who helps clients explore their emotions and heal through the use of fiction, non fiction and poetry. She explains how she got into the bibliotherapist work and came to be the first in Hong Kong. At the end of the episode, Bhakti shares three different poems with us. The first is about her grandmother’s death, the second is about the Ganges on fire, and the last is about a failed relationship. Tune in to learn more about bibliotherapy and hear her amazing poems.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[3:09] What is a bibliotherapist? [8:12] How did Bhakti get into this field? [10:51] What is the Amma, Take Me series?[12:31] What is the Amma, Tell Me series?[13:48] Do Bibliotherapists exist in other places in the world? [15:42] What is Bhakti going to share with the listeners and why?[17:52] Does Bhakti explore light and death a lot in her work? [20:11] Is Bhakti taking new bibliotherapist clients? [20:40] What is coming next from Bhakti? [23:23] Bhakti reads us her poem called An Indian Summer about the death of her grandmother. [26:30] Bhakti reads her poem called Varanasi about a city of water by the Ganges on fire. [27:52] Bhakti reads her poem The Thornbird about the ending of a relationship.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
A bibliotherapist is someone who recommends books to people as a way to heal. They focus on healing by using fiction, nonfiction and poetry to help people connect with their experiences and feelings through a different view. Amma, Take Me and Amma, Tell Me are stories inspired by trips that Bhakti took with her children. They are nonfiction books, inspired by questions that her children asked her while they were out seeing new places. Bhakti utilizes poetry as a form of healing. They provided her space to express and label her emotions. Writing offers an opportunity to put distance between you and the problem or issue that you are struggling with.Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora
Fiction Credits:
Written and read by Bhakti Mathur
GUEST RESOURCES:
Bhakti Mathur's LinkedIn
Bhakti Mathur's Personal Facebook
Bhakti Mathur's Business Facebook
Bhakti Mathur's Instagram
Bookswithbee.net
HOST RESOURCES
Website
LinkedIn
Tiktok
Instagram
Facebook
Twitter (X)
Substack
Threads
LinkTree
BIO:
Bhakti Mathur is the author of the 'Amma Tell Me' and 'Amma Take Me' series of children’s books about Indian mythology and history, with 19 published titles to date. After a long stint as a banker, she now juggles her time between writing, practicing yoga, and with her family. She lives in Hong Kong with her husband, their two children, and two dogs. She holds a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing from the University of Hong Kong and is a freelance journalist with 100 published articles in the South China Morning Post on life, health, and fitness. Bhakti is an ICF credentialled (ACC) executive coach and is Hong Kong's first bibliotherapist. When not writing or running after her boys, Bhakti is happiest curled up with a book in one hand and a hot cup of chai in the other. To learn more about her, visit her at www.bhaktimathur.com, www.reflectwithbhakti.com, and www.bookswithb.net.
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations
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Welcome to this week's episode of the True Fiction Project! Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of Mary K. Savarese, an "overnight success" who discovered her passion for writing after becoming an empty nester. In this episode, Mary shares how her life experiences have shaped her unique storytelling style, and why she loves to explore different genres and projects. Mary captivates us with her writing journey, from the challenges she faced to the triumphs she achieved. She also treats us to an exclusive reading from her trilogy, The Girl in the Toile Wallpaper. In this excerpt, we meet Dante, a man ensnared in a mysterious world, where an evil figure manipulates scenes he cannot intervene in. Tune in for an episode filled with creativity, perseverance, and the magic of storytelling!
IN THIS EPISODE:
[2:56] Mary shares about her day to day life. [4:41] What is an overnight success and what does that mean to Mary? [7:39] How has life experience impacted her writing? [12:06] What is a spiritual mystery? [13:44] What is the difference between a series and a trilogy? [18:40] What was the adventure that Mary had the other day? [22:21] What inspired the excerpt that Mary is going to read to us? [26:13] We hear an excerpt from The Girl in the Toile Wallpaper written and read by Mary K. Savarese.KEY TAKEAWAYS:
If you have the passion for it and you stick with it, it can happen for you. Not overnight, but if you have the passion and the desire it can happen for you. Mary utilized the ending of her parenting chapter, becoming an empty nester, to begin writing as a way to deal with the difficult transition. As an author, you don’t need to write like everyone else. Follow your heart, and your creativity to find what lights you up the most.Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora
Fiction Credits:
Written and read by Mary K. Savarese.
GUEST RESOURCES:
Mary K. Savarese's LinkedIn
Mary K. Savarese's Facebook Page
Mary K. Savarese's Twitter
Mary K. Savarese's Instagram
Mary K. Savarese’s Website
HOST RESOURCES
Website
LinkedIn
Tiktok
Instagram
Facebook
Twitter (X)
Substack
Threads
LinkTree
BIO:
Mary K. Savarese is a traditionally published, best-selling, award-winning fiction author and speaker. She is known for her quirky titles. Her debut novel, Tigers Love Bubble Baths & Obsession Perfume (who knew!) a mystery romance with a supernatural twist garnered eight awards.
Her recent novel is a fantasy adventure intertwined with romance and has also become an audiobook. The Girl In The Toile Wallpaper, is the first in the StarWriters trilogy. The second novel, The StarWriters Club, will be published this July 15.
A finalist in the CIBA 1st place and grand prize category, The Girl In The Toile Wallpaper, won The NYC Big Book Award for Fantasy, the International Royal DragonFly for Fantasy and YA and most recent swept the Fantasy category at the International Cadmus Awards.
US Review of Books compared it to A Wrinkle in Time and Dr. Who.
Mary K. Savarese was born in Brooklyn, NY, raised her family in New England, and now resides in Florida where she loves to take her readers on wonderful fantasies.
Mary appears on iHeartRadio, radio podcasts, Streaming Podcasts, Mindalia TV, Cable, YouTube, local publications and UK Radio.
Her novels can be purchased from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, on line & brick and mortar and independent book stores everywhere
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations
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Welcome to Season 5 of the True Fiction Project. We are kicking off this episode with something a little different. Traci DeForge, CEO and Founder of Produce Your Podcast, interviews Lynn Moon (CEO) and Shannon Peason (CFO), Co-Founders of the publisher, Indignor House, about the new book they are launching July 15, 2024, written by our very own Reenita Hora! Lynn and Shannon share a bit about the type of authors they typically work with, and how they became connected to Reenita. Lynn shares a lot of the history in India from when this book was written and the impact that it can have on future generations of those who read this book. At the end, you will hear an excerpt from Vermilion Harvest: Playtime at the Bagh written and read by Reenita herself about the forbidden love between an Anglo-Indian school teacher and a Muslim student activist against General Dyer’s impending tragedy.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[2:42] How did Lynn and Shannon get started on creating Indignor House? [4:12] What type of authors were they looking for when they started Indignor House?[5:53] How did they get connected to Reenita? [12:21] What type of genre do they typically work with?[15:27] What is the history of the time that Vermilion Harvest: Playtime at the Bagh was written about? [21:35] What is it like to publish a non U.S. historical fiction book in the United States? [25:06] How did the experience of publishing this book impact Shannon (editor)?[27:01] What are Lynn’s expectations for this book? [30:14] Is there a screenplay version in development? [31:02] How can people get their hands on the book?[32:21] We hear an excerpt from Vermilion Harvest: Playtime at the Bagh written and read by Reenita Hora.If you'd like to receive a FREE Chapter 1 of Vermilion Harvest - Playtime at the Bagh or if you are interested in inviting Reenita to connect with you book club (in person or by zoom), please send us a note at https://www.reenita.com/contact.
Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of the podcast and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora
Fiction Credits:
Written and read by Reenita Hora
RESOURCES:
Where to buy Vermilion Harvest: Playtime at the Bagh:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1953278523Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/vermilion-harvest-reenita-m-hora/1145699636?ean=9781953278524Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Reenita-Malhotra-Hora/author/B001KHTMSSWalmartThriftbooksBooktopia (Australia)Hatchards (UK)If you'd like to receive a FREE Chapter 1 of Vermilion Harvest - Playtime at the Bagh or if you are interested in inviting Reenita to connect with you book club (in person or by zoom), please send us a not at https://www.reenita.com/contact.)
Guest Information
Indignor House Website
Indignor House Facebook
Indignor House Twitter
Indignor House Instagram
Get in touch with Reenita:
LinkedInTiktokInstagramFacebookTwitter (X)SubstackThreadsLinkTreeBIO:
Bio for Lynn Moon: CEO & Co-Founder of the publisher, Indignor House
Lynn is the award-winning author of the Agency Series that follows a government with unlimited power and money. She has worked for state and federal government agencies and uses her long reaching personal experiences to captivate her audience with realistic stories of political corruption. Her novels have won awards including the Moonbeam Children's Book Award, IPPY award, and the Dante Rossetti Book award. Lynn holds an MPA in Public Administration from Troy State University and an MFA in Literature from Lindenwood University. She’s the CEO of Indignor House, working to change the publishing environment one book at a time.
Bio for Shannon Pearson: CEO & Co-Founder of the publisher, Indignor House
Shannon comes to Indignor House with a treasure trove of over 10 years of experience in accounting and administrative services. For the last five years, Shannon has worked in the editorial fields of all genres. With her talent, she gives the numbers and letters a refined breath of fresh air.
Bio for Reenita Hora
Reenita, the 'Nora Ephron' of South Asian storytelling, spinning yarns as eclectic as Mumbai's iconic 'Bhel Puri' – a tantalizing concoction of flavors with an occasional bug for that extra crunch! Her stories star a motley crew of characters caught in the whirlwind of imperfect scenarios, all while stubbornly refusing to sell out. Her writing, unapologetically Indian, pulses with the colors and rhythms of her culture, deftly blending humor and authenticity. LA Weekly spotlighted her unique approach to weaving Indian humor and culture into the American tapestry, celebrating the innovative narrative of Operation Mom. Read the LA Weekly Article here.
In her previous life, Reenita was a journalist, editor, and writer for platforms like National Geographic Kids, Disney India, Cartoon Network Asia, the New York Times, CNN, Radio Television Hong Kong, and Bloomberg. Her awards and accolades include the Eric Hoffer Book Award, IndieReader Discovery Award, Santa Barbara International Screenplay Award, Script2Comic, Launchpad, and Emerging Screenwriters awards, and Sundance Institute Development Slate second rounder. No one-trick pony though, she's the brains behind two podcasts: the True Fiction Project (where reality takes a nose dive into the scripted world) and Shadow Realm (a magical portal to riveting narrative fiction). Dive headfirst into her world fantastical tales, and laugh-out-loud moments at http://www.reenita.com.
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Welcome to this week’s True Fiction Project Podcast. During this episode we are highlighting guests from my homeland, India. First you will hear poetry titled Sea Link, My Place and The Kohinoor, Mughal Sequence, written and read by Anand Thakore about life and letting go. Next, you will hear an excerpt from the story Toddy Trails, written by yours truly, about the adventures of a baker who ran out of yeast and must find a replacement. Lastly, you will enjoy an excerpt from My Voice, written and read by Priya Subberwal, which tells of her learning about being adopted. All three are wonderful, don’t forget to tune in to the original episodes linked in the show notes.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[1:21] Anand Thakore shares about his writing and work. [2:10] We hear the poems Sea Link, My Place and the Kohinoor written and read by Anand.[8:40] Avinash Martin discusses his restaurant Cavatina and how he decided to focus the food on Goan cuisine. [9:56] We hear an excerpt from the story Toddy Tails written by Reenita.[16:17] Priya Subberwal shares about her book My Voice and how she found out she was adopted. [17:05] We hear an excerpt from My Voice by Priya about her adoption.KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Priya decided to write about her journey of finding out she was adopted as an adult as a way to find closure after her parents had passed away. Her story is fantastic for those who have been adopted or for people who are considering adoption. Anand feels that poetry really has to embrace the moment and be very short and brief and make its statement in a short space.Fiction Credits:
Sea Link, My Place, and The Kohinoor, Mughal Sequence by Anand Thakore
Poetry written and read by Anand Thakore
Anand Thakore's Facebook | Anand Thakore's Website | Poetry International Website
Toddy Trails
Short story written by Reenita Hora inspired by Avinash Martin’s story
Chef Avinash Martins' Instagram | Chef Avinash Martins' Facebook
My Voice
Excerpt written and read by Priya Subberwal
Dishas Consulting Website | Priya Subberwal's Instagram | Priya Subberwal's Facebook
Priya Subberwal's LinkedIn
RESOURCES
Season 4 - Episode 12: The Kohinoor, Mughal Sequence
Season 4 - Episode 6: Toddy Trails
Season 4 - Episode 9: Masala Movie
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
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Welcome to this week’s True Fiction Project Podcast. During this special episode, we are mashing up two fantasy fiction author interviews and true fiction pieces from season 4! These episodes include Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity and New Rock, New Role. Both stories have unique plots and are sure to make you laugh! Tune in today to hear interview snippets and full story stories from each episode! Find the link to the full episode in the notes below.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[1:37] Interview snippet of Daniel Finkel discussing his life on the other side of Hollywood.[3:04] Short story Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity by Daniel Finkel. [13:34] Interview snippet of Richard Sparks discussing how he entered into fantasy writing. [15:42] Short story New Rock, New Role by Richard Sparks.KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Sometimes your fun projects that seem crazy can actually turn into something big! You never know what will change your life, one second you could walk out on a stage and be unknown, and the next you could be a star walking off the stage.Fiction Credits:
Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity
A short story written and read by: Daniel Finkel
Daniel Finkel's Personal Facebook Page | Daniel Finkel's Instagram | Trailer for the Audiobook
New Rock, New Role
A short story written and read by: Richard Sparks
Richard Spark's Website | Richard Spark's Facebook | Richard Spark's Instagram | Buy New Rock New Role Fantasy Novel Today!
RESOURCES
Season 4 - Episode 8: Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity
Season 4 - Episode 5: New Rock, New Role
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations
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In this revisited episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast, actor, writer, and stand up comedian Shenuque Tissera shares his story of how he went from a Doctor of Geography to a Stand Up Comedian. He talks about the expectations his parents had of him after immigrating to the US, and his fear of disappointing them as he faked his graduation and dropped out of graduate school. We hear all about the Art of Killin' It and the other projects he is currently working on. The episode ends with the short story titled, Faking the Grade by Michael Kobzik. In this story we follow an aspiring stand up comedian who officially drops out from becoming a Doctor of Geography but still shows up at his graduation to receive a fake diploma to appease his unaware parents.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[1:57] What is Shenuque’s primary career? [2:50] Shenuque walks through his college education path. [11:38] How did Shenuque fake his graduation? [13:10] Shenuque talks about his start as a stand up comedian. [14:53] We hear about the Art of Killin' It. [16:43] How is Quidditch (quadball) actually played? [22:37] What do Shenuque’s parents think of the decisions he has made with his career? [23:50] Shenuque tells us about the Twenty Sided Podcast and his character. [26:36] A short story Faking the Grade by Michael Kobzik.KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Follow your heart. Shenuque knew that he wasn’t destined for the graduate school path. Once he followed his heart he was able to find a career that he absolutely loves and is wildly successful at. Quidditch is a real game that was played at the college level! You can be more than one thing in life! You don’t have to silo yourself into one career, follow your passions and see where you end up.Fiction Credits:
Excerpt written by: Michael Kobsik
Excerpt narrated by:
BIO:
Shenuque is an actor, writer, and stand-up comedian. He portrays 'Jaylen' in the theatrical production of the Art of Killin' It. He's been featured on HBO Max's Human By Orientation. He is also the voice of Yaksha Rah on the Twenty Sided Podcast. You can find him @shenuque on Instagram or @fakeshenuque on TikTok.
Shenuque Tissera Website
The Twenty Sided Podcast
Shenuque Tissera's Twitter
Shenuque Tissera's Instagram
Shenuque Tissera's TikTok
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations
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In this revisited episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast, Traci DeForge, Founder and CEO of Produce Your Podcast, is back on the podcast as we talk about Reenita’s book, Operation Mom: My Plan to Get My Mother a Life and a Man. Reenita’s publisher, Dr. Morissa Schwartz joins the conversation as well. Dr. Schwartz is the Founder and CEO of Dr. Rissy’s Writing & Marketing and GenZ Publishing, LLC and was named to Forbes 30 Under 30 list. They talk about current trends in publishing and how Dr. Schwartz is making strides to increase diversity and representation among writers. They discuss the power of strong female characters and cultural representation in modern fiction and later in the episode, Reenita shares a short excerpt from her book, Operation Mom: My Plan to Get My Mother a Life and a Man.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[03:55] Dr. Schwartz’s journey into publishing from a career in BioSciences [08:52] Operation Mom and GenZ Publishing’s partnership and how Operation Mom connects with American young adult audiences [12:58] Representation of strong female characters and diverse cultural backgrounds [20:25] Diversity in publishing and GenZ’s commitment to storytelling for young adults [26:10] Future plans and dreams for Operation Mom [32:51] Book excerpt: Operation Mom: My Plan to Get My Mother a Life and a Man written and read by Reenita HoraKEY TAKEAWAYS:
Podcast listenership for comedy podcasts and narrative fiction podcasts grew exponentially during and since the pandemic. Over 60% of books are still published by men over the age of 45 – and most publishers are white men. GenZ Publishing is making strides to change this statistic by publishing more diverse writers. Representation and cultural diversity is so important in modern fiction. Not only does Operation Mom give readers a strong female lead, it also represents a cultural experience located outside of the U.S.Fiction Credits:
An excerpt from Operation Mom - My Plan to Get My Mother a Life and a Man written and read by: Reenita Hora
https://www.facebook.com/ReenitaMalhotraHora
https://www.linkedin.com/in/reenita/
BIO:
Morissa is one of Forbes 30 Under 30 in Media for 2022. Dr. Morissa Schwartz is the Founder and CEO of Dr. Rissy’s Writing & Marketing and GenZ Publishing, LLC.
Dr.RissysWriting.com is a marketing and writing company ranked #1 in PR and in the top ten in Social Media and SEO for New York and New Jersey on Thumbtack. GenZ Publishing is a publishing company that has produced 15 Amazon bestsellers.
Dr. Rissy has been featured on Forbes, MTV, and is a bestselling author herself. She speaks professionally about inspiring others through words and entrepreneurship and was named the “Voice of Generation Z” by Community magazine. Dr. Rissy is a contributor for Entrepreneur magazine.
She holds a doctorate in Literature from Drew University and has a Master’s in Communications.
Dr. Morissa Schwartz on Facebook
Dr. Morissa Schwartz on LinkedIn
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Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast. This week we are revisiting an episode that was recorded October 12, 2023 to mark the October 2023 events between Israel and Hamas, marking the most significant escalation of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict in several decades.
With the heaviness in the world still today and the events playing out in Israel and the Gaza strip, I introduce a story brought to audiences through playwright, poet and screenwriter, Simone Yehuda. Simone discusses her screenplay, Jerusalem Road, which has wild synchronicity between the storyline and what is happening between the Israelis and Palestinians right now. Simone talks about why it is so important to release her screenplay right now. She shares the history of both the Israelis and Palestinians feeling that home is the same place, and the barriers that are at stake. We then hear a scene from Simone’s screenplay, Jerusalem Road. The scene compares and contrasts the years of suffering the two character groups, Palestinians and Jews, have faced and how both groups were forced into exile.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[2:47] Simone discusses her background and where her story Jerusalem Road came from. [5:01] Is it true that all of her screenplays focus on the reconciliation of opposites divided by major barriers where survival and identities are at stake? Why did she choose this path? [6:33] Why is Jerusalem Road so important and why release it right now with the events happening in the world? [9:02] Who are some of the characters and what is the context of the characters? [12:26] What is the history of both Israelis and Palestinians feeling that home is the same place? [15:24] Has the significance of the screenplay expanded given what is happening this week? [16:36] Can we bring about change through storytelling? [17:52] Will Simone’s screenplay go beyond a screenplay into something more? [22:00 A scene from the screenplay, Jerusalem Road, written by Simone Yehuda.KEY TAKEAWAYS:
We’re all a human family. We have to try to put an end to the inhumane treatment that is happening. If we keep defending “our own” and not stepping out to right against the things that are going wrong in the world then they will continue to happen. If we can’t talk to each other and listen to each other then disaster will follow. Each person’s story is valuable and a way to get to know each other’s lives, cultures, and history. Take the time to listen to stories as much as you tell them. There is so much loss happening right now, so much inhumane activity happening all across the world with racism, ageism, prejudice behavior. Take the time in your day to spread kindness and empathy. Do what you can to make the world a better place.Fiction Credits:
Excerpt written by: Simone Yehuda
BIO:
Simone Naomi Yehuda was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts to a German Jewish Holocaust survivor and French Catholic mother whose own mother was a leader of the French Resistance. Writing became her cure for massive psychic trauma. She began as a published poet (two books: THAW and LIFTING WATER) and multi-produced playwright (including a play, WILLING, Off Broadway). While in New York, she played the flute with the New York Symphony and was a member of the Mass Transit Dance Company. Simone began writing screenplays full-time ten years ago hoping to reach a wider audience. She now writes feature screenplays that include JERUSALEM ROAD, THE NEW EVE, LOVE AND HOMICIDE, THE THIRD MOTHER, THE SIG OF A FREE MAN and MATADORA! Her scripts focus on the reconciliation of opposites divided by insurmountable barriers where survival and identity are at stake. Simone’s adult twin daughters, physician Valerie Gabriella Press and psychologist/artist Corinna Nicole Press, live in Chicago and San Francisco respectively. She lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan with her historian husband Barry Michael Shapiro.
Simone Yehuda's Website
Simone Yehuda's LinkedIn
Simone Yehuda's Facebook
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In the last episode of season 4 of the True Fiction Project, I am honored to welcome the amazing Anand Thakore. I’ve known Anand since we were in school together, and it has been incredible to see his journey and learn of his success as an Anglophone Poet and Hindustani Classical Musician. During this episode we reminisce on some of our school experiences and share stories. Then we dive in to learn what Anand is up to now, while he shares his latest projects. We hear an excerpt of music and a poem from Deepankar Khiwani, titled Cathedral. Anand shares his experience working with Deepankar and how their work together inspired him to start writing poetry again. The episode goes on to include three original pieces by Anand Thakore titled Sea Link, My Place and Mughal Sequence. Tune in for this entertaining episode!
IN THIS EPISODE:
[2:28] Anand shares about his journey with Sanskrit. [4:03] What was Anand’s journey with music and poetry? [9:49] What is the style of contemporary Indian writing? [10:50] Anand shares his story about the creation of the Mughal Sequence. [13:50] What is the backstory behind some of his latest pieces? [16:30] How do poets utilize characters in their poetry? [18:42] Anand talks about the work he’s done with Deepankar Khivani. [21:23] Anand shares the song and poem Cathedral by Deepankar Khivani. [22:51] We hear the poem Sea Link, by Anand Thakore. [25:09] We hear the poem My Place, by Anand Thakore [26:24] Why was Anand feeling like a sock puppet? [29:01] Anand shares more about the poem Mughal Sequence and then we hear an excerpt from it.KEY TAKEAWAYS:
[12:51] Anand wants the American audience to understand that they are a trans culture, multicultural, multilingual people. Their themes are Indian, their language is English, their music can be Indian, they can also experience Western music in great depth. [14:49] Anand feels that poetry really has to embrace the moment and be very short and brief and make its statement in a short space. [16:32] Sometimes poets reveal themselves when they are pretending to be someone else.Fiction Credits:
Poems below written and narrated by: Anand Thakore
Sea Link My PlaceMughal SequenceCathedral Poem: Written by Deepankar Khiwani and narrated by Anand Thakore
The Cathedral & John Connon School
Anand’s song at end of episode:
Pt. Anand Thakore - Kabir Bhajan-Kuan thagva nagariya lutal ho (Juhu Hamara Festival Kaifi Azmi Park 2019)Anand's other works and information:
De Kooning's Smile: Collected Poems
In Praise of Bone
Elephant Bathing
Seven Deaths and Four Scrolls
Selected Poems-1992-2012
youtube interview and reading at book launch
Anand Thakore introduces you to 'In Praise of Bone' ( video)
_THE-KOH-I-NOOR, Poetry International , Anand Thakore
BIO:
Born in Mumbai in 1971, Anand Thakore grew up in India and in the United Kingdom. He has spent most of his life in Mumbai. His published collections of poetry include In Praise of Bone (2023), Waking In December (2001), Elephant Bathing (2012), Mughal Sequence (2012), and Seven Deaths and Four Scrolls (2017). A Hindustani classical vocalist by training, he has devoted much of his life to the study, performance, composition and teaching of Hindustani vocal music. He received musical instruction for many years from Ustad Aslam Khan, Pandit Baban Haldankar and Pandit Satyasheel Deshpande. He is the founder of Harbour Line, a publishing collective, and of Kshitij, an interactive forum for musicians. He holds an MA in English Literature and is the recipient of grants from The Ministry of Human Resource Development and The Charles Wallace India Trust. He lives in Mumbai and divides his time between writing, performances, and teaching music. His fourth collection of verse, entitled Seven Deaths and Four Scrolls, was recently shortlisted for The Jayadeva National Poetry Award.
Anand Thakore's Facebook
Anand Thakore's Website
Poetry International Website
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Music is a way for everyone to connect, no matter where they come from or what their beliefs are. Today’s guest Pablo Sáinz-Villegas is on the True Fiction Project Podcast to talk about why music and Spanish guitar is the perfect vehicle for storytelling. He discusses the difference between the guitar and Spanish guitar, and how even though they all may have the same six strings, and the same tuning, they all offer something different. He shares his stories of working with other musicians and how storytelling comes out of each piece, whether working alone or collaborating with others. Tune in and close your eyes to enjoy the piece Recuerdos de la Alhambra (Memories of Alhambra in English) by the Spanish composer Franciso Tarrega at the end of the episode.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[2:45] What does Pablo mean by the statement “music and Spanish guitar is the perfect vehicle for storytelling?” [5:25] Is there a difference between a guitar and a Spanish guitar? [7:26] Does Pablo always have the opportunity to explore storytelling even when collaborating and playing with other artists? [10:05] How is Pablo providing children with the opportunity to explore the magic of music? [13:07] Pablo gives an example of what he means by storytelling through music. [16:00] Close your eyes and enjoy hearing the piece Recuerdos de la Alhambra by the Spanish composer Franciso Tarrega. [19:17] Enjoy another piece played by Pablo titled Asturias (Leyenda)KEY TAKEAWAYS:
[3:25] Music is an experience that we cannot touch, we cannot see, but we feel, and those are the experiences in life that are most transcendental, most profound to us. [5:25] While all guitars have six strings and the same tuning, each instrument is related to a different kind of music because they have different features. [15:07] Music is a way for people to come together and share stories, share about life, and connect on a deep level that connects to our hearts.Fiction Credits:
First song: Recuerdos de la Alhambra by the Spanish composer Franciso Tarrega
Second song: Asturias (Leyenda) - Isaac Albéniz. Pablo Sainz-Villegas. LIVE at Teatro Mayor, Colombia
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EowSRVAp8rM
BIO:
Sainz-Villegas is the "global ambassador of the Spanish guitar" (Billboard Magazine), a star who has brought classical music to millions of people from the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium to a floating stage on the Amazon River or Carnegie Hall in New York. He has been the first guitarist in 38 years to perform at the Philharmonie with the Berlin Philharmonic under Kirill Petrenko. In addition, he has collaborated with artists such as John Williams, Yo-Yo Ma and played for world leaders as the Dalai Lama. Thanks to his charity work Pablo Sainz-Villegas has also been able to bring access to classical music to tens of thousands of children in Spain, Mexico and the United States.
Pablo Sainz Villegas' Website
Pablo Saniz Villegas' Personal Facebook
Pablo Saniz Villegas' Twitter
Pablo Saniz Villegas' Instagram
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After experiencing a tragic bicycle accident, Mark Berridge spent a year getting his health back. He then decided to write a story to inspire others to keep pushing a little bit further, because they are stronger than they think. This week on the True Fiction Project, Mark Berridge joins Reenita to talk about his accident, and what led him to write his nonfiction book, A Fraction Stronger. Mark discusses future work that he hopes to accomplish, shifting from a nonfiction author to a fiction author, and hopefully one day to playwriting. We then hear an excerpt from the short story, Wondrous Experiences, where a man takes a trip and allows himself to experience it from a new perspective, seeing how the world is truly vibrant and full of possibility.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[2:20] Mark talks about winning an award for his nonfiction book.[3:26] What is A Fraction Stronger about?[5:13] Mark discusses his physical therapist that was instrumental in his journey to be able to walk again[9:03] Does Mark hope to write more books?[15:57] Mark shares where people can learn more about him. [17:32] Mark shares an excerpt from the short story, Wondrous Experiences.KEY TAKEAWAYS:
[4:43] We are all a fraction stronger than we realize, and if we find that inner strength and channel it and embrace the support around us, then we can achieve almost anything. [14:58] In a world where we are so interconnected in a way because of technology, there’s still nothing quite like going somewhere and really making connections and finding your tribe, or finding something that changes your life.[24:26] If you immerse yourself in the world’s range of potential experiences, you can feel truly alive.Fiction Credits:
Story written by: Mark Berridge
Story narrated by: Mark Berridge
BIO:
Mark Berridge has broad experience in negotiation, marketing, strategy and transformation. His most prominent corporate role was the Chief Negotiator for Rio Tinto Iron Ore from 2012 to 2015 where he led the pricing strategy for revenue worth USD20 billion.
Mark always enjoyed finding high value in complex situations. In March 2019 he became his own subject matter when a bicycle crash changed his life forever. Mark fractured 2 vertebrae and heard the devastating words spinal cord injury. He spent 7 weeks in hospital and 9 months in full time rehabilitation regaining the ability to walk. He will strive to maintain and improve his mobility all his remaining life.
Mark now writes and speaks about the impacts of disruption and how we can fight our way forward from almost any situation. His inspirational award-winning book A Fraction Stronger was released in the USA September 2022.
A Fraction Stronger Book
Mark Berridge's LinkedIn
Mark Berridge's Personal Facebook Page
Mark Berridge's Business Facebook Page
Mark Berridge's Instagram Page
Mark Berridge's Website
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Learning about her adoption at age 21 was quite impactful for Priya Subberwal, along with the lack of conversation that her adoptive parents had with her afterwards regarding her biological family. Today, I am honored to have Priya join the True Fiction Project, she is a long time friend of mine, and is a wonderful storyteller. We start the episode discussing her business, Disha Limited, where she helps people set their homes up for the best energy through Feng Shui work. She talks about how to utilize the evergreen elements of Feng Shui as well as what to prioritize for 2024. We then get to hear the story of how Priya found out she was adopted, and what that was like to find out as an adult. Priya reads an excerpt from her story, Masala Movie, in the book, My Voice about what she uncovered through the process of trying to find her biological parents and how she brought closure to herself.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[2:30] Priya explains what her business, Disha Limited, is. [5:10] How does it work if your home has bad energy?[6:10] What does Priya mean about good Feng Shui in Hong Kong and San Francisco?[7:50] How does Priya work with people who are on more flat land who don’t have natural Feng Shui?[8:37] How does Feng Shui change across the years?[9:10] What does the year of the wood dragon mean for Feng Shui?[10:52] Priya describes her short story, Masala Movie, in the book, My Voice.[20:05] Priya shares an excerpt from her story, Masala Movie, in the book, My Voice, when she learned about her adoption.KEY TAKEAWAYS:
[6:13] Feng Shui is all about the wind and water, mountains play a very important role because they work as the antennas, it’s where the energy is stacked from the planets and then through wind it comes down and settles at the base of the water. [9:37] For 2024, the year of the dragon, the best ways to benefit from Feng Shui are to utilize the Southwest of your home and the East. The Southwest is for happiness, advancement, promotion, and happy events. The East is for networking, finding leads, any kind of business work that is done in the home.[18:47] Priya decided to write about her journey of finding out she was adopted as an adult as a way to find closure after her parents had passed away. Her story is fantastic for those who have been adopted or for people who are considering adoption.Fiction Credits:
Story written by: Priya Subberwal
Story narrated by: Priya Subberwal
BIO:
Priya Subberwal is a qualified Classical Feng Shui practitioner. A trained interior designer, her interest in Chinese Metaphysics was sparked by a chance look through at a coffee table book on the subject in 2000. After extensive reading on the subject, she formally started studying in 2007 and applying it to her daily life. Friends and family too gained from her knowledge and fascination. Priya aims to bring focus and stability to the lives of others. In 2016 she formed the company 'Disha' which comes from the Sanskrit word ‘Dishadhara’ meaning direction - something that she strives to give her clients.
Priya is a yoga enthusiast and an avid reader. She lives in Hong Kong with her banker husband and a dog. She is a mother of two adult daughters, who love giving her unsolicited fashion and make-up advice. Interestingly, she previously co-owned a cricket team “Kowloon Cantons” in Hong Kong and has co- authored an Amazon bestseller novel #my voice -A collective memoir by women of substance.
Dishas Consulting Website
Priya Subberwal's Instagram
Priya Subberwal's Facebook
Priya Subberwal's LinkedIn
My Voice Book
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What would it be like to experience a 26 mile dinner party? Today, on the True Fiction Project, I am joined by author and screenwriter, Daniel Finkel. Daniel shares with us his story Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity, how it came about, and the adventure he has taken to write this story and get it out to the public. He talks about other screenplays he has written and what his next steps are for this adventurous story. Daniel discusses what it was like growing up in L.A. and Hollywood and how his experience may have differed from others. At the end of the show, we hear a chapter titled The Dinner Party from Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity where the characters explore through a 26 mile long underground dinner party. Tune in to hear more of this insane story!
IN THIS EPISODE:
[1:55] Daniel tells us about himself and how he is a Hollywood guy in the most non Hollywood of ways. [3:39] What is Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity and how did it come about? [6:07] Why didn’t the screenplay end up being made into a movie as planned?[7:50] What screenplay did Daniel write that was made into a movie? [8:50] What is the true life inspiration to Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity? [12:38] What is the book wrap tour?[14:39] What are the next steps for the story? [16:28] Where can listeners find out more about Daniel’s work and events?[17:24] Daniel explains what his favorite part of the book is. [19:45] We hear a chapter titled The Dinner Party from Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity by Daniel Finkel about navigating a 26 mile underground dinner party.KEY TAKEAWAYS:
[9:03] Changing one thing about yourself can change the perception that others have of you. [15:39] Never stop dreaming, your dreams can come true![19:50] If you ever get a chance to go for a 26.2188 mile dinner party, you are in for quite an adventure! Grab Mr. Taffles Pants of Insanity to see what I mean!Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/
Fiction Credits:
Story written by: Daniel Finkel
Story narrated by: Daniel Finkel
BIO:
I moved to LA to work in the entertainment industry, where I learned I didn't want to work in the entertainment industry. But I got to read screenplays by writers with big agents that were horrible. So I started to write my own screenplays that were also horrible. And it worked! I started to option and sell them… eventually selling the biggest piece of crap I ever wrote to MGM. But then my brain literally went on strike. I was supposed to write this script with a big time commercial producer and I literally couldn't think of anything. My brain forced me to write only ideas that I was passionate about. So I co-wrote and directed my first feature film Everything Will Happen Before You Die. The cast was amazing and I got to direct major league talent like Academy Award Nominee John Hawkes and Marc Boone Junior (Sons of Anarchy). It was a dream come true.
However, there's a big missing part of this story… MUSIC. It all started when my roommate asked me to be his vocal sidekick in this rave rock psychedelic lounge funk band called The Serotonins. The idea was I would be a cow and he would be the farmer. Well, he never dressed as a farmer, thus The Mad Cow was born. I became a bit of a counter-culture hero in the Burningman scene and played to packed clubs for years.
And TODAY… I'm beyond excited to have published my award winning debut comedy/satire/sci-fi novel MR. TAFFLE'S PANTS OF INSANITY. It's an incredible feeling to have written my first book but even more of an incredible feeling to know that I'll be writing them for the rest of my life. And now we just released the audiobook which I couldn't be more excited about how it turned out. Oh and yes… the MUSIC. A couple of pals and I wrote an EP of songs based on the novel. I will be performing this at bookstores and weird stages all over North America (to start.)
Daniel Finkel's Personal Facebook Page
Daniel Finkel's Instagram
Trailer for the Audiobook
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Raised as an evangelical Christian, Bethel Swift started her dating journey late in life, after realizing that God was not going to drop the right guy in her lap. Throughout her three part book, Conversations with Good Men, Bethel shares poems of her experience as a daughter and then about her dating life. In this episode, you will hear what propelled Bethel to turn her personal experiences into a story, and what she found along the way. Bethel then reads two of her poems, the first called The Artist Takes Herself on a Date, which represents her journey of becoming a strong version of herself and the lessons she learned. The second poem, Potpourri Rain, is about her experience with sexual assault from someone close to her, which sent a chill down my spine. Tune in to learn more about Bethel’s dating journey
Trigger Warning: Sexual Assault
IN THIS EPISODE:
[1:57] Bethel shares what her book Conversations with Good Men is about. [4:02] What propelled Bethel to turn her own personal experience with dating into a story?[5:40] What did she find in her explorations?[9:35] Why did Bethel include conversations with her father in a book about dating? [12:44] Bethel shares about the pieces she will be reading and where the stories came from. [13:34] We hear Bethel’s first poem The Artist Takes Herself on a Date. [16:50] Bethel shares her second poem Potpourri Rain. (Trigger Warning - Sexual Assault)KEY TAKEAWAYS:
[2:59] In order to find the love of your life, you have to actually go out on dates and spend time with people to find out what your deal breakers are and what things are really important to you. [7:50] We cannot expect our lovers to be everything for us, it puts unrealistic and high pressure expectations on relationships.[16:08] Women will sometimes behave unexpectedly after an assault, like still being friends with the person or still trying to please that person. It can take days, months, years sometimes before women realize that the person did them wrong and that they don’t have to carry the blame.Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/
Fiction Credits:
Poems written by: Bethel Swift
Poems narrated by: Bethel Swift
BIO:
Bethel Swift is a San Diego based artist, poet, indie publisher, workshop instructor, professional home organizer, and the author of Conversations with Good Men (2020, Swift & Sparrow Press). Bethel's poetry has been published in Armenian Poetry Project, Haiku Journal, San Diego Poetry Annual, and Expressions from Englewood as well as exhibited at Columbia College Chicago. In 2017, Bethel was the recipient of an AWP Writer to Writer Mentorship with poet Sandy Coomer (Available Light). Prior to that, she studied poetry under Kristina Marie Darling (Dark Horse) and Larry Sawyer (Vertigo Diary) at the Chicago School of Poetics and with Martha Vertreace-Doody (Glacier Fire) at Kennedy-King College. Bethel earned her degree in journalism from Columbia College Chicago (in 2007) and her journalistic features, interviews, reviews, and opinion pieces have appeared in multiple print and web publications.
Bethel Swift's Website
Bethel Swift's Personal Facebook Page
Bethel Swift's Business Facebook Page
Bethel Swift's Twitter
Bethel Swift's Instagram
Bethel Swift's Pinterest
Bethel Swift's LinkedIn
Conversations with Good Men
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Welcome back to another episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast. Today we feature Chef Avanish Martins. Avanish discusses how his restaurant, Cavatina, came to be and how he made the decision to focus on Goan cuisine. He discusses what “toddy trappers” are and why their skill is so essential to Goan food. Avinash describes how he tells stories through his cuisine and the beautiful way he ties the culture in by plating his food. We learn how the coconut and tree are used in the Goa Culture, and how Pader Pader Ponk Ponk was used to wake up the town. Toddy Trails the fiction piece from this episode takes us along the journey of a local baker who’s yeast has been ruined, risking a critical order he needed to fill. A friend encourages him to use toddy to replace the yeast, and after many attempts he nails down a successful recipe, only to have his rolls of bread stolen. Tune in to hear how the story ends!
IN THIS EPISODE:
[2:38] Avinash introduces himself and talks about how he grew up.[3:34] How did Avinash’s restaurant, Cavatina, come to be?[6:03] What are “toddy tappers” and how does Avinash utilize it in his cooking?[11:28] Why does Feni get a bad rap? [12:50] How does Avinash’s cuisine differ from other Goan cuisine that is found in other restaurants? [13:46] What is a Chitari artist and how is their artwork represented on Avinash’s table? [18:09] Where did the roots of Goan cuisine originate from? [19:41] How can those of us outside of South Goa and India get to explore and experiment with Avinash's cuisine? [22:31] Is there one particular kind of ingredient that you would say is quintessentially Goan that we don’t know about? [24:58] What did Pader Pader Ponk Ponk represent? [28:13] We hear the short story Toddy Tails written by Reenita HoraKEY TAKEAWAYS:
[8:35] Toddy is at risk of not being harvested in Goa due to the next generation not wanting to work the dangerous job of harvesting toddy. If there is no toddy, the product doesn’t exist, you cannot make it with anything else. [13:19] Avinash has experienced many parts of the world, and has decided that he will feature his Goan cuisine as Local Heart, Global Food. The food is genuine Goan good, with flair from other parts of the world. [22:40] The most important ingredient in Goan cuisine would be coconut. Coconut in all forms is a versatile element in Goan cooking. There is nothing of the coconut that goes to waste including the tree itself. It can be used for rafters of a roof, the leaves make beautiful shade nets, the spikes can be used as brooms, the husk is used to make ropes, and more!Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/
Fiction Credits:
Excerpt written by: Reenita Hora
Excerpt narrated by using AI
BIO:
Chef Avinash Martins has got the humble Goan cuisine to an international level with farm to table practices and traditional cooking methods but presented it in a modern flair
Chef Avinash Martins' Instagram
Chef Avinash Martins' Facebook
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Richard Sparks has been successful in so much of his work from writing The Schoolmaster, performed by Rowan Atkinson, to aiding an opera singer to launch her career. The one area he couldn’t seem to get into was fiction writing, until now that is. On today’s episode, I am so excited to have writer and author Richard Sparks on the show to discuss his prior pieces of work as well as his new fantasy novel! Richard shares what it was like to work with John Cleese, Rowan Atkinson, and others. At the end of the episode, we hear a clip from his new fantasy story, New Rock New Role that talks about a man who gets sucked into a video game and is trying to understand how he got there. This is Richard’s take on how it would feel to be a character in one of the games that he frequently plays.
The clip we hear is from early on in the book and series, and there is more to come! Grab a free audio book chapter and ebook chapter or buy the full novel released December 12 on his website - www.richardsparks.com!
IN THIS EPISODE:
[1:37] Richard tells us about what he’s been doing and the work he’s done with John Cleese, Rowan Atkinson and others.[6:38] A clip from The Schoolmaster by Richard Sparks and Rowan Atkinson.[10:14] Richard tells us about his experience in the music industry. [11:58] Richard shares about his new project, a fantasy, and how it was inspired from real life. [19:45] A clip from New Rock New Role read and written by Richard Sparks.KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Richard doesn’t take credit for launching people off into their careers, he says they are all a collaborative relationship, where both sides are needed to be successful. Comedy is fear and pain and misery and disasters and things going wrong and people falling into puddles and betrayals and miscommunications and what good adventure isn't full of that.Richard struggled to become a fiction writer because he couldn’t connect with the content. He has now finally embraced fiction writing now that he can use his own voice.Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/
Fiction and Schoolmaster Credits:
Excerpt written by: Richard Sparks
Excerpt narrated by: Richard Sparks
Schoolmaster Clip performed by: Rowan Atkinson
Schoolmaster Clio written by Richard Sparks
BIO:
Born in England, and a graduate of Oxford University (Exeter College, where, like both JRR Tolkien and Philip Pullman before him, he read English), Richard started out as a writer of stage plays, comedy revues and TV, for such shows as Not the Nine o’clock News. Rowan Atkinson performed his Schoolmaster sketch in John Cleese’s The Secret Policeman’s Ball. UK TV credits include The Famous Five, The Flying Kiwi, The Optimist, The Worst of Hollywood, and a lot of script editing. On being hired by Columbia Pictures TV, Richard moved with his family to Los Angeles. His lyrics have been recorded by talents as diverse as Dom de Luise, Eric Idle, Vanessa Williams and Plácido Domingo. He has written libretti for several new operas composed by Lee Holdridge (TV’s Beauty and the Beast, et al.), produced by the LA Opera, as well writing new English versions of German and Italian classics. His non-fiction books, Diary of a Mad Poker Player, and its sequel, Getting Lucky, chronicle his adventures in the poker boom of the 2000’s. Along the Cherry Lane is his biography of the music producer, Milt Okun. “High Adventure Spiced with Low Comedy,” inspired by his love of online role-playing games, New Rock New Role is the first of four volumes Richard has written so far in the New Rock fantasy series, and is his fiction debut.
Richard Spark's Website
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Buy New Rock New Role Fantasy Novel Today!
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Denise has an incredible skill of turning the truth of WWII into a fiction book that people will both learn the history from while also finding the story engaging and entertaining. An award winning writer, teacher, actress, director and producer, Denise is a wealth of knowledge, and I am so grateful to have her back on the show. She shares why America and the world has such a fascination with spies and then dives into how spies helped lead Japan to their attack on Pearl Harbor, 82 years ago today. Denise discusses why she chose to write fiction vs. nonfiction and how she used her research to create such an engaging story. She then reads an excerpt from her story Storms From a Clear Sky where the Americans realize that they’ve been assisting a Japanese spy all along.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[3:16] Denise shares why she thinks the world has such a fascination with spies, spy networks, and how they operate.[6:20] We hear the story of a Japanese spy prior to WWII.[10:02] What was the spy relationship between the Japanese and Germans against the US?[17:00] Did American spies drop the ball in 1941 to miss the attacks?[19:15] Why did Denise decide to write fiction rather than recreate nonfiction accounts of everything that she has discovered through her research?[22:51] Denise shares a short excerpt from her story Storms From a Clear Sky.KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Pre World War II, the Japanese were encouraging anyone to step inside their consulate on American ground and offer up any information. There were actual trained spies or there were just somebody who saw ships or any information on the Americans. They started planning the attack on Pearl Harbor in January of 1941. That is when they got serious about it and they did all sorts of different activities to prepare for that war.Due to the American spies, America knew the date for the attack from Japan, but didn’t know the time and place that it would occur (attack of Pearl Harbor 1941.) The task for Tadashi Morimura, a Japanese spy, to gather valuable information was boundless. It was easy to observe the movements of the ships, the submarines, their moorings, and the times of patrols from where he was staying on American land.Check out HelloFresh and use my code truefictionprojectfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/
Fiction Credits:
Excerpt written by: Denise Frisino
Excerpt narrated by: Denise Frisino
BIO:
A Seattle native, Denise Frisino, is an award-winning writer, teacher, actress, director, and producer.
Whiskey Cove, her first novel, a fast-paced who done it, centers around Prohibition in the Northwest.
Next came Orchids of War and Storms From A Clear Sky, both finalists in numerous national competitions, including 1st place for the Hemingway Book Award for 20th Century Wartime Fiction.
When researching for these historical fictions, Denise spent over 10 years interviewing 50 men and women from the WWII era. She weaves the experiences of those she interviewed into her story about Japanese espionage along the West Coast prior to WWII, then follows the same characters throughout the war.
She is currently working on the last book in the Orchids Trilogy and the movie script for Whiskey Cove
Her blogs and YouTube channel contain some of the WWII veteran interviews and she has just launched a new web www.wwiiinterviews.com.
Denise has stood atop 5 mountain peaks over 14,000 feet, lived aboard one of the old Mosquito Fleet boats on Lake Union, and drank scotch with Katharine Hepburn. She enjoys being on the water and loves her rowboat. Denise and her husband continue to enjoy the many facets of the Pacific Northwest.
WWII Interviews Website
Denise Frisino's Website
Denise Frisino's Facebook
Denise Frisino's Instagram
Storms From a Clear Sky Book
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