Uncorking a Story

Michael Carlon
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Uncorking a Story Podcast

Listen in to Uncorking a Story, where we pop the cork on hidden narratives and delve deep into the brilliant minds of your favorite authors. Get ready to unlock the magic behind your favorite books, one unforgettable story at a time. Hit that subscribe button and never miss a sip of inspiration!

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Redemption, Reinvention, and Writing, with Richard Podkowski

    "As a Secret Service agent, I was a secret writer... I kept my writing hidden for about five years." – Richard Podkowski In this episode of Uncorking a Story, I sit down with Richard Podkowski, a former U.S. Secret Service agent turned author. Richard takes us on a journey through his career, his novel The Walk On, and his passion for storytelling. We dive into the themes of redemption, how professional athletes' lives parallel this idea, and what it takes to transition from law enforcement to the world of fiction writing. Key Themes Transitioning to Writing: Richard shares his personal journey from writing investigative reports for the Secret Service to crafting compelling fiction. The Writing Process: How Richard secretly wrote his novel while balancing family and a career, and the challenges of getting published. Motivation and Persistence: Insights into staying motivated as a writer despite setbacks, including a multi-year break from writing. The Walk On and Redemption: Richard discusses how his debut novel explores the theme of redemption through the lens of a fallen NFL player. Exploring Different Genres: Richard's passion for writing beyond thrillers, including romantic comedies, and his screenplay aspirations. Consulting in Film and TV: His emerging role as a technical advisor for crime and law enforcement accuracy in the entertainment industry. Buy The Walk On Amazon: https://amzn.to/4fYwd66 Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9798885280334 Connect with Richard Website: https://richardpodkowski.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/richard_podkowski Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/richard.podkowski Twitter:https://x.com/RPodkowski Connect with Mike Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/ If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    34 min

  2. 10 SEPT

    Creating New Purpose, with Jonathan Bogner

    "Resilience isn't just bouncing back—it's finding new purpose after everything changes." — Jonathan Bogner In this inspiring episode of Uncorking a Story, host Mike Carlon sits down with Jonathan Bogner, a seasoned film and reality TV producer who has faced unimaginable challenges. From experiencing heart failure, two strokes, and aphasia, to receiving a life-saving heart transplant, Jonathan’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless optimism. Join us as we dive deep into his incredible journey, the lessons he’s learned, and the importance of finding purpose in the face of adversity. Key Themes A Life-Altering Health Journey: Jonathan recounts the series of major health crises that changed his life forever, including heart failure and a heart transplant. His experience with aphasia and the emotional impact of losing his ability to speak for a time is a central part of his story. The Power of Resilience: Jonathan shares his three key principles—rigorous optimism, rugged flexibility, and resilience—which guided him through his recovery and inspired his new purpose. Reinvention Through Purpose: After his transplant, Jonathan found a new calling in storytelling, focusing on unsung heroes—caregivers. His passion for sharing personal stories highlights the critical role caregivers play in the healthcare journey. From Behind the Camera to the Spotlight: As a longtime producer, Jonathan's transition from supporting other people's stories to becoming the subject of his own remarkable narrative was unexpected but powerful. Heart Memories and a Woman's Heart: Jonathan reflects on receiving a woman’s heart and the emotional and even physical changes he noticed, including newfound cravings for certain foods, touching on the mystical idea of heart memories. Celebrating Caregivers: Jonathan emphasizes the often-overlooked struggles of caregivers, sharing his plans for a TV show that highlights their stories with moments of both sincerity and levity. Connect with Jonathan Website: https://bognerentertainmentinc.com/home Website: https://personalstories.net/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanbogner1/ Connect with Mike Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/ If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. #Resilience #HeartTransplant #Caregivers #PersonalStories #RigorousOptimism #AphasiaRecovery #Storytelling Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    52 min

  3. 3 SEPT

    Writing Beyond Boundaries: Embracing Criticism, Late Blooms, and Creative Courage with Linda Moore

    "Perseverance is probably the most important skill or quality to have. Stick with it, and eventually you'll cross some kind of finish line." – Linda Moore In this episode, Linda Moore, a late-blooming fiction writer and art historian, shares her unique journey from political science and journalism to owning an art gallery and finally embracing a career as a novelist. Through candid discussions on facing criticism, switching career paths, and her perseverance in getting her first novel published in her 70s, Linda offers invaluable insights for writers at all stages. Her wisdom and experiences provide a rich source of inspiration for those aspiring to tell their own stories. Key Themes Perseverance in Writing: Linda emphasizes the importance of sticking with your craft, no matter how many setbacks or rejections you face. Embracing Criticism: She shares her transformative experiences with early criticism and how it helped shape her into a better writer. Late Start in Fiction: Linda’s journey into novel writing didn’t begin until later in life, proving it's never too late to start a new chapter. Art as Storytelling: Drawing from her background in art history, Linda discusses the power of storytelling through different mediums, including art. Publishing Pathways: Linda explores her decision to pursue hybrid publishing and how she navigated the challenges of getting her books into the world. Self-Promotion in Publishing: She speaks to the necessity of self-promotion in today’s publishing landscape, especially for independent authors. Buy Five Days in Bogota Amazon: https://amzn.to/4dpgWth Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9798874780937 Connect with Linda Website: https://lindamooreauthor.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lindamooreauthor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindamooreauthor/ Connect with Mike Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/ If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. #WritingJourney #Perseverance #LateBloomingAuthor #Storytelling #ArtAndWriting #PublishingTips #AspiringWriters #CreativeProcess #FictionWriting #CriticismAndGrowth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    46 min

  4. 27 AUG

    From Myths to Medicine: Dr. Benjamin Caplan on Cannabis

    “There's so much literature in cannabis... I'm kind of acting a little bit like a translator for the general public and for the medical community." — Dr. Benjamin Caplan In this episode of "Uncorking a Story," host Mike Carlon sits down with Dr. Benjamin Caplan, a renowned family physician and expert in medical cannabis. Over the past 17 years, Dr. Caplan has overseen the care of more than 250,000 patients and mentored hundreds of physicians. He shares his unconventional journey into the world of medical cannabis, dispels common myths, and highlights the therapeutic potential of this versatile plant. Whether you're skeptical or curious about cannabis, this conversation promises to offer valuable insights and a fresh perspective on its use in modern medicine. Key Themes Dispelling Cannabis Myths: Dr. Caplan addresses the prevalent misinformation about cannabis and provides evidence-based insights to counteract these misconceptions. Therapeutic Benefits: The discussion covers the various medical conditions, such as anxiety, pain, and sleeplessness, that cannabis can effectively treat. Patient Empowerment: Emphasizing the importance of patients having control over their treatment, Dr. Caplan highlights how cannabis offers a unique sense of agency. Scientific Exploration: The conversation delves into the scientific mechanisms behind cannabis, including its role in angiogenesis and the endocannabinoid system. Cannabis vs. Traditional Medicine: Dr. Caplan compares the effects of cannabis with traditional pharmaceuticals, particularly in the context of opioid reduction. Recreational vs. Medicinal Use: The blurred lines between recreational and medicinal use of cannabis and its overall therapeutic impact. Future of Cannabis Research: Dr. Caplan shares his vision for the future of cannabis research and its potential to revolutionize medicine. Buy The Doctor-Approved Cannabis Handbook: Reverse Disease, Treat Pain, and Enhance Your Wellness with Medical Marijuana and CBD Amazon: https://amzn.to/3A2aqtL Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781637742679 Connect with Dr. Caplan https://www.CEDclinic.com https://www.BenjaminCaplan.com https://www.CaplanCannabis.com Podcast: https://www.GreenTableTalkPodcast.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/drcaplan Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/drbenjamincaplan YouTube: https://www.YouTube.com/c/CEDclinic TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drbenjamincaplan Connect with Mike Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/ If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. #UncorkingAStory #MedicalCannabis #CannabisResearch #DrBenjaminCaplan #CannabisBenefits #PatientEmpowerment #ModernMedicine #CannabisVsPharma #EndocannabinoidSystem #TherapeuticCannabis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    41 min

  5. 20 AUG

    Finding Freedom Through Love, Connection, and Writing

    "I felt really alienated before, but when I started walking on the streets and all these people started sharing their stories, I slowly started to heal." — Varuni Sinha In this compelling episode of "Uncorking a Story," host Mike Carlon interviews Varuni Sinha, a New York-based writer and multimedia producer, about her transformative journey from a copywriter in New Delhi to an author in America. Varuni discusses her memoir "Golden Handcuffs: An Immigrant’s Pursuit of Happiness," which chronicles her struggles with immigration, love, and finding her voice as a writer. Through candid conversations and heartfelt stories, Varuni sheds light on the challenges faced by immigrants and the healing power of both connection and storytelling. Key Themes: Trial by Fire: How Varuni was thrown into the lion’s den in her first agency job, and how she thrived while experiencing a steep learning curve. Immigration Challenges: The difficulties faced by spouses on visas in the U.S. and the impact on their professional and personal lives. Overcoming Adversity: Varuni’s struggle with unemployment and rejection, and how she navigated through these challenges with resilience and determination. Love and Partnership: The supportive relationship with her husband, who encouraged her to continue writing and believing in herself despite setbacks. Healing Through Writing: How Varuni found solace and purpose in writing her memoir and the cathartic process of documenting her experiences. Community and Connection: Varuni's interactions with diverse individuals on the streets of New York and how these encounters enriched her perspective and inspired her writing. Personal Growth: The evolution of Varuni's identity and self-discovery through her journey of love, loss, and literary achievement. Buy Golden Handcuffs: An Immigrant's Pursuit of Happiness Amazon: https://amzn.to/3W6cRTg Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9798989028801 Connect with Varuni Website: https://varuni-sinha.squarespace.com/ Twitter: ​​https://x.com/varunisinha Connect with Mike Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@uncorkingastory Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikecarlon/ #CancerSurvivor #BreastCancerAwareness #TripleNegativeBreastCancer #RunningTherapy #SupportSystem #Inspiration #CancerJourney #HealthAndWellness #SurvivorStories #PodcastEpisode Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    53 min

  6. 13 AUG

    Writing Through Adversity with Ann Bancroft

    "I wasn't interested in writing about my own cancer journey, but I was interested in the idea of what if my situation had been flipped." — Ann Bancroft In this heartfelt episode of "Uncorking a Story," host Michael Carlon sits down with Ann Bancroft, a remarkable two-time breast cancer survivor who has made her literary debut at the age of 71. Bancroft shares her journey from a career in journalism to becoming a novelist, the challenges she faced during her cancer treatments, and how she found inspiration in the small joys of life. Her debut novel, "Almost Family," explores the power of unlikely friendships and the healing nature of love. Join us as we uncork Ann's inspiring story of resilience, creativity, and finding purpose in every chapter of life. Key Topics: Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment: Insights into Ann's personal experience with breast cancer, the treatments she underwent, and the emotional and physical impact. Transition from Journalism to Fiction: Ann discusses her shift from a long career in journalism to writing fiction, emphasizing the challenges and creative freedom it brought. Writing as Therapy: The therapeutic and transformative power of writing, and how Ann used it to process her experiences and emotions. Finding Joy in Small Moments: How Ann's cancer journey taught her to appreciate the small, beautiful moments in life. Creating "Almost Family": The inspiration behind her debut novel and the significance of its themes, such as found family and facing terminal illness with humor and honesty. Overcoming Publishing Challenges: Ann's path to getting her novel published, including the setbacks and the eventual success with a hybrid publisher. Encouraging Aspiring Writers: Advice and motivation for aspiring writers, especially those who might think it’s too late to start their literary journey. Buy Almost Family Amazon: https://amzn.to/4eVDxyV Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781647426668 Connect with Ann Website: https://annbancroftauthor.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552070758051 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bancroftann/ Connect with Mike Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@uncorkingastory Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikecarlon/  #UncorkingAStory #AnnBancroft #CancerSurvivor #AuthorJourney #AlmostFamily #WritingTherapy #Inspiration #Resilience #BookLovers #LiteraryDebut Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    40 min

  7. 6 AUG

    Healing through Story, with Holly LaBarbera

    "Writing is like therapy; it reveals the soul and heals the heart." — Holly LaBarbera In this episode of "Uncorking a Story," Holly LaBarbera, an accomplished author and psychotherapist, takes us through her fascinating journey from childhood letter writing with her grandmother to becoming a published novelist. She shares how her career as a therapist intertwines with her love of storytelling, revealing deep insights into the human experience. Whether you're an aspiring writer or someone who appreciates the transformative power of words, Holly's story will inspire and enlighten. Key Topics The Power of Letters: Holly began her writing journey through heartfelt letters exchanged with her grandmother, laying the foundation for her passion for storytelling. Therapeutic Writing: As a psychotherapist, Holly discusses how writing can be a powerful tool for therapy, helping individuals process grief and trauma through journaling and letter-writing exercises. Overcoming Rejection: Holly candidly shares her experiences with numerous rejections from agents and traditional publishers and how she turned to self-publishing to bring her stories to life. Balancing Dark and Light: In her book "All I Know," Holly explores heavy themes such as trauma and mental health with a balance of hope, humor, and resilience, aiming to provide an honest yet uplifting narrative. Inspiration and Resilience: Holly emphasizes the importance of perseverance in the face of setbacks, both in her writing career and in personal growth, encouraging listeners to pursue their passions despite challenges. Authentic Storytelling: Holly's approach to storytelling is deeply personal and authentic, drawing from her own life experiences and her work as a therapist to create relatable and meaningful characters. Community and Feedback: Holly highlights the value of a supportive writing community and constructive feedback, sharing how her connections with other writers have been instrumental in her creative process. Buy All I Know Amazon: https://amzn.to/3LkH0ct Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9798989492909 Connect With Holly Website: https://hollyclabarbera.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollytellsatale/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084384496084   Connect with Mike Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/ If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. #Storytelling #HealingThroughWriting #AuthorJourney #MentalHealth #TherapeuticWriting #SelfPublishing #Inspiration #UncorkingAStory #HollyLaBarbera #PodcastLife Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    32 min

  8. 30 JUL

    Unlocking the Subconscious, with Philip Cioffari

    "Writing is like staying in shape; even when things aren't going well, sitting at the desk and writing keeps you ready for the day when the right ideas and words come." - Philip Cioffari Today we dive deep into the world of storytelling with special guest Philip Cioffari. Philip is a novelist, short story writer, playwright, and filmmaker whose journey from a young boy writing cowboy stories to an acclaimed author is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode, Philip shares insights from his new novel, Night and Its Longings, discusses the challenges and triumphs of a writer's life, and offers invaluable advice to aspiring writers. Whether you're an experienced writer or just starting, Philip’s story will motivate and encourage you to keep writing and let your creativity flow. Key Topics Early Inspiration and Radio Dramas: Philip’s childhood inspiration from listening to radio dramas like The Shadow and The Green Hornet. The influence of creating visuals from sound on his writing style. The Journey to Publication: The long and often challenging path to getting his first short story published. The importance of persistence and resilience in a writer's career. Teaching and Writing: Balancing a teaching career with writing. Insights from teaching fiction writing at Gotham Writers and at the university level. The Evolution of a Novel: The process of writing Night and Its Longings, from initial drafts to the final product. The role of character development in shaping the plot. Film and Playwriting: Philip experience in adapting his play Love in the Age of Dion into a film. The collaborative nature of theater and the unique satisfaction of seeing his work performed live. Advice for Aspiring Writers: The importance of writing every day and staying ready for inspiration. Philip's belief in the unconscious mind's role in storytelling. Buy Night and its Longings Amazon:https://amzn.to/4cI44hm Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781604893748 Connect With Philip Website: https://philipcioffari.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philipcioffari/   Connect with Mike Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/ If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. #WritingJourney #AuthorLife #Storytelling #CreativeProcess #WritersCommunity #InspirationForWriters #UncorkingAStory #PhilipCioffari #NightAndItsLongings #PodcastInterview Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    48 min
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About

Listen in to Uncorking a Story, where we pop the cork on hidden narratives and delve deep into the brilliant minds of your favorite authors. Get ready to unlock the magic behind your favorite books, one unforgettable story at a time. Hit that subscribe button and never miss a sip of inspiration!

Information

  • Creator
    Michael Carlon
  • Years Active
    2012 - 2024
  • Episodes
    356
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Uncorking a Story, 2024
  • Show Website
    Uncorking a Story

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