Episodes

  • 22. Unexpected Characters: The Surprises of Storytelling with T.J. Klapprodt
    Nov 25 2024

    In this engaging conversation, the hosts and guests delve into the world of audiobooks and writing, exploring the journey from casual storytelling to professional authorship. They discuss the nuances of epic fantasy versus regular fantasy, the importance of diverse reading habits, and the influence of personal experiences on writing. The conversation highlights the joy of audiobooks and the creative process behind crafting compelling narratives. In this conversation, T.J. Klapprodt discusses the challenges of writing while dealing with health issues, particularly migraines, and how this experience influenced his creative process. He reflects on the importance of revising work and the role of mentorship in developing his writing skills. The discussion also delves into the intricacies of world-building in fantasy literature, character development, and the significance of female protagonists. Klapprodt emphasizes the value of reader feedback and reviews, highlighting how they shape an author's journey and the importance of engaging with readers. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the significance of reviews for indie authors, the intricacies of world-building in fantasy writing, and the importance of character development. They discuss the influence of popular authors like Sarah J. Maas, the challenges of pronunciation in storytelling, and the role of reader interpretation. Additionally, they share tips for aspiring writers and the struggles of marketing their work in a constantly changing social media landscape. The conversation wraps up with insights into upcoming projects and the excitement of connecting with readers.

    Connect with K.T. HERE

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    Have a story to share or an idea for the show? We’d love to hear from you! Visit HERE to learn more about being a guest or getting involved.

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    📚 Until next time, keep reading, keep writing, and keep listening!

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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • 21. From Fanfic To Published Author with Caitlin Goerlich
    Nov 20 2024

    In this engaging conversation, Kathy and Caitlin Goerlich discuss their journeys as authors, the influence of High School Musical on Caitlin's writing, and the importance of representation for individuals with disabilities in literature. Caitlin shares her experiences with fan fiction, adaptive sports, and her role in the Tri-State Wheelchair Athletic Association, highlighting the significance of community and personal growth in her life and work. In this engaging conversation, Caitlin Goerlich discusses her experiences in adaptive sports, the financial challenges faced by athletes, and the importance of media representation for the disabled community. She emphasizes the need for more adaptive sports programs and the role of volunteers in supporting these initiatives. Caitlin also shares her journey from traditional publishing to self-publishing, offering insights into the writing process and encouraging others to embrace their creativity. The discussion highlights the significance of social awareness and acceptance for individuals with disabilities, as well as the importance of finding inspiration in various forms.

    Connect with Caitlin HERE

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Background
    03:02 The Impact of High School Musical
    05:52 Fan Fiction and Community Engagement
    09:03 Writing and Disability Representation
    11:55 Adaptive Sports and Personal Journey
    14:45 Role in the Tri-State Wheelchair Athletic Association
    17:57 Challenges and Triumphs in Sports
    21:08 Future Aspirations and Writing Career
    27:04 Navigating Adaptive Sports and Financial Challenges
    32:08 The Importance of Media Representation in Adaptive Sports
    37:42 Finding and Creating Adaptive Sports Programs
    42:38 Conversations Around Disability and Social Awareness
    49:32 The Journey of Self-Publishing and Supporting Others
    01:01:35 Upcoming Works and Embracing Creativity

    Support the show

    🍋 Thanks for Listening to Lemons Listening Library! 🍋

    We’re so glad you joined us to explore the stories behind the stories. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow book lovers!

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    🎙️ Be a Guest or Suggest a Topic!
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    Love what we’re doing? Support us by subscribing to our Patreon channel or grabbing some merch in our shop!

    📚 Until next time, keep reading, keep writing, and keep listening!

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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • 20. Conflict, Healing, and Creativity: Lessons from Real Life and Fiction with R.J. Lloyd
    Nov 13 2024

    In this engaging conversation, authors Randie, Ariel, and R.J. Lloyd discuss their writing journeys, the challenges of managing multiple pen names, and the impact of personal trauma on their storytelling. They explore the importance of reader engagement, the nuances of emotional expression, and how their experiences shape their characters and narratives. The discussion also touches on the complexities of autism and the role of logic in emotional situations, highlighting the deep connections between their lives and their writing. In this conversation, R.J. Lloyd and the hosts delve into the complexities of trauma, the portrayal of male characters in literature, and the societal expectations surrounding masculinity. They discuss the importance of accountability, the impact of victim blaming, and the power of community support in healing. The conversation also touches on the significance of teaching conflict resolution in schools and the exploration of diverse literary genres. R.J. shares insights into her writing process and upcoming projects, emphasizing the need for authenticity in character development and the importance of finding one's own voice as a writer.Connect with R.J. Lloyd HERE

    Support the show

    🍋 Thanks for Listening to Lemons Listening Library! 🍋

    We’re so glad you joined us to explore the stories behind the stories. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow book lovers!

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    🎙️ Be a Guest or Suggest a Topic!
    Have a story to share or an idea for the show? We’d love to hear from you! Visit HERE to learn more about being a guest or getting involved.

    Support the Show:
    Love what we’re doing? Support us by subscribing to our Patreon channel or grabbing some merch in our shop!

    📚 Until next time, keep reading, keep writing, and keep listening!

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    1 hr and 10 mins
  • 19. Seasons of Creativity: Grief, Renewal, and Writing with Rhonda Linn
    Nov 13 2024

    In this engaging conversation, Randie, Bree, and Rhonda discuss the journey of writing, the importance of community, and the balance between personal well-being and creative expression. Rhonda shares her experiences as an author and entrepreneur, emphasizing the significance of setting boundaries and finding support in the writing community. They explore the role of seasons in life and writing, and Rhonda reveals her new book, 'The Chapel of Small Breath,' which delves into themes of grief and renewal. The discussion also touches on the publishing process and the potential of platforms like Substack for writers. In this conversation, Rhonda Linn discusses the transformative power of grief, the importance of embracing discomfort, and how nature plays a crucial role in personal growth and storytelling. She shares insights from her experiences in education, gardening, and yoga, emphasizing the need for self-compassion and mindfulness in navigating life's challenges. The discussion also touches on practical tools for enhancing productivity and connecting with one's passions.Connect with Rhonda Linn here - https://www.rhondalinn.com/chapel-of-small-breath

    Support the show

    🍋 Thanks for Listening to Lemons Listening Library! 🍋

    We’re so glad you joined us to explore the stories behind the stories. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow book lovers!

    💛 Follow Us for More Bookish Fun:

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    🎙️ Be a Guest or Suggest a Topic!
    Have a story to share or an idea for the show? We’d love to hear from you! Visit HERE to learn more about being a guest or getting involved.

    Support the Show:
    Love what we’re doing? Support us by subscribing to our Patreon channel or grabbing some merch in our shop!

    📚 Until next time, keep reading, keep writing, and keep listening!

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    1 hr and 20 mins
  • 18. Pen Names and Plot Lines: Meghan Shaltes's Creative Odyssey
    Nov 13 2024

    Mastering Creativity: Parenting, Writing, and Mental Health in FocusIn this episode of Lemon's Listening Library, host Randie Lemons Kathy Ireland explore a rich tapestry of topics with a special guest Meghan Shaltes, an author known for her diverse pen names. They delve into Meghan's inspiring journey into writing, motivated by her daughter's autism and ADHD, and her personal experiences with bipolar disorder and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. The discussion broadens to encompass the challenges and rewards of parenting, the evolution of homeschooling, and the importance of open communication and self-advocacy. Listeners will also hear about Meghan's multifaceted career path, from culinary arts to astrophysics, and the pivotal role of National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo). Other highlights include the emotional highs and lows of publishing, the significance of trust and communication in relationships, and the ethical considerations of AI in creative fields. The episode is a heartfelt exploration of storytelling, mental health, and the delicate balance between personal and professional life.Connect with Meghan here!

    Support the show

    🍋 Thanks for Listening to Lemons Listening Library! 🍋

    We’re so glad you joined us to explore the stories behind the stories. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow book lovers!

    💛 Follow Us for More Bookish Fun:

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    🎙️ Be a Guest or Suggest a Topic!
    Have a story to share or an idea for the show? We’d love to hear from you! Visit HERE to learn more about being a guest or getting involved.

    Support the Show:
    Love what we’re doing? Support us by subscribing to our Patreon channel or grabbing some merch in our shop!

    📚 Until next time, keep reading, keep writing, and keep listening!

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    1 hr and 50 mins
  • 17. How Morally Grey Is This? With Ethan Gray
    Nov 13 2024

    In this engaging conversation, Ethan Gray shares insights into his journey as a voice actor and audiobook narrator, highlighting the dynamic chemistry he shares with his co-host Kenna. They explore the evolving landscape of the romance genre, the impact of AI on voice acting, and the societal challenges surrounding sexuality and consent. The discussion also delves into the importance of building positive communities and the future of immersive audiobooks, emphasizing the need for open conversations about female sexuality and empowerment. In this engaging conversation, Ethan Gray discusses the evolving landscape of audiobooks, particularly the rise of immersive audio experiences and the challenges of production. He shares insights on the impact of AI on the audiobook industry, emphasizing the irreplaceable human element in storytelling. Ethan also highlights the importance of building a personal brand as a narrator and the supportive community within the audiobook space. The discussion touches on the emotional aspects of narration and the unique challenges faced by introverted authors and narrators alike.Connect with Ethan Gray here

    Support the show

    🍋 Thanks for Listening to Lemons Listening Library! 🍋

    We’re so glad you joined us to explore the stories behind the stories. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow book lovers!

    💛 Follow Us for More Bookish Fun:

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    🎙️ Be a Guest or Suggest a Topic!
    Have a story to share or an idea for the show? We’d love to hear from you! Visit HERE to learn more about being a guest or getting involved.

    Support the Show:
    Love what we’re doing? Support us by subscribing to our Patreon channel or grabbing some merch in our shop!

    📚 Until next time, keep reading, keep writing, and keep listening!

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    2 hrs and 13 mins
  • 16. Moist Lips & Blue Balls: With Tor Thom
    Nov 13 2024

    In this conversation, the participants delve into the complexities of the romance audiobook community, discussing recent controversies, the importance of dialogue, and the role of narrators. They explore the journey of becoming an audiobook narrator, the emotional impact of narration, and the significance of personal mottos. The discussion also touches on marketing strategies, the rise of audiobook listening, and the challenges of balancing personal life with a career in narration. In this engaging conversation, Tor Thom discusses the intricacies of duet narration, the emotional dynamics involved, and the importance of collaboration in the booth. The discussion also touches on the complexities of contracts in the audiobook industry, the challenges of censorship, and the significance of supportive circles for narrators. Tor shares insights on gender dynamics, the rise of platforms like Quinn, and offers valuable advice for aspiring narrators, emphasizing the need for authenticity and connection in their work.Connect with Tor Thom here

    Support the show

    🍋 Thanks for Listening to Lemons Listening Library! 🍋

    We’re so glad you joined us to explore the stories behind the stories. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow book lovers!

    💛 Follow Us for More Bookish Fun:

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    🎙️ Be a Guest or Suggest a Topic!
    Have a story to share or an idea for the show? We’d love to hear from you! Visit HERE to learn more about being a guest or getting involved.

    Support the Show:
    Love what we’re doing? Support us by subscribing to our Patreon channel or grabbing some merch in our shop!

    📚 Until next time, keep reading, keep writing, and keep listening!

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    1 hr and 43 mins
  • 15. Love, Loss, and Resilience: Jasmine Carolina’s Inspirational Writing Journey
    Nov 13 2024

    🎧 Welcome to Lemons Listening Library! 🍋In this episode, we’re thrilled to chat with the inspiring Jasmine Carolina, an author whose stories blend romance, resilience, and the power of personal growth. Jasmine shares her journey from a struggling college student to a self-published author, navigating through profound personal loss and health challenges along the way.Join us as Jasmine opens up about her five-year hiatus from writing following the passing of her mother and being diagnosed with a chronic illness. She candidly discusses how these experiences shaped her as a person and a writer, and what motivated her to return to storytelling with renewed passion and purpose.📚 Topics Discussed:- Jasmine’s early days of self-publishing and overcoming the challenges of being a young, independent author- Coping with loss, chronic illness, and finding her way back to writing- The themes of love, family, and resilience that permeate her work- Her upcoming release, When It’s Over, and what inspired this new trilogy about three Mexican American sisters- The message she hopes to convey to readers through her storiesJasmine’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of creativity. Whether you’re an aspiring author, a fan of heartfelt romance, or simply looking for inspiration, this episode will remind you that even in the face of adversity, it’s never too late to chase your dreams.🔗 Connect with Jasmine Carolina✨ Support the Podcast: Want to advertise your book or services on our podcast? Check out our Patreon for advertising opportunities and more ways to support the show!🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share! Stay tuned for more episodes featuring amazing guests from the book world. Leave a comment below and let us know what you loved about this episode!#LemonsListeningLibrary #JasmineCarolina #AuthorInterview #Podcast #BookCommunity #SelfPublishing #RomanceAuthor #InspiringStories #Resilience #WritingJourney #NewRelease

    Support the show

    🍋 Thanks for Listening to Lemons Listening Library! 🍋

    We’re so glad you joined us to explore the stories behind the stories. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow book lovers!

    💛 Follow Us for More Bookish Fun:

    • Threads
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    🎙️ Be a Guest or Suggest a Topic!
    Have a story to share or an idea for the show? We’d love to hear from you! Visit HERE to learn more about being a guest or getting involved.

    Support the Show:
    Love what we’re doing? Support us by subscribing to our Patreon channel or grabbing some merch in our shop!

    📚 Until next time, keep reading, keep writing, and keep listening!

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    1 hr and 2 mins