Authors By Us

Jaylen Moore

Authors By Us is a podcast dedicated to bridging the gap between readers and authors. In other words bringing readers and authors closer together. Too often, we put our favorite ones on a pedestal and only know them through their pages. This show asks: What if we closed that gap? Each episode features a slow, meaningful conversation with an author, emerging voices, and familiar favorites alike. We talk about their books and writing process, but we additionally do more than that. We explore their lives, their thoughts, their experiences, and the stories behind the stories. By the end of each conversation, you won’t feel like you just listened to an interview. You’ll feel like you’ve made a new friend in the author’s chair.

  1. 3d ago

    The Romantasy That Plays Off 1835's Thumbelina (With A Twist) - Mara Sand

    In this episode, Mara Sand shares her journey from childhood fairy tale obsession to becoming a published author of a fantasy series inspired by classic stories. She discusses her creative process, the importance of feminine rage, and the role of AI and mental health in writing. What You’ll Learn: Mara Sand's background and inspiration from fairy tales The evolution of her five-book series and genre blending The role of feminine rage and emotional expression in storytelling The impact of AI on modern writing and creativity Managing ADHD and mental health as a writer The importance of persistence and finishing projects Casting characters and imagining adaptations The cultural significance of retelling and rewriting stories The influence of childhood interests on adult creativity Advice for aspiring writers and creators Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 00:50 Does Mara's Story Mimic Her Life? 01:55 Finding Her Voice Via Writing 03:18 Why Mara Started Writing At 12 Yrs Old 05:06 What A 7 Year Project Taught Mara In Regards To Writing Novels 07:08 Is Mara A Perfectionist 08:02 How Does She Bring Herself To Edit If It Feels Torturous 09:09 How The World Looks At "The Little Guy" Discussion 11:42 Why Is Feminine Rage Necessary IRL 13:14 How Closely Does Ina Mirror Mara 15:24 Mara's Advice To Finding Potential In Oneself 16:55 What IS The "Court System" In Mara's Story 19:24 The Evolution Of A 5-Book Series Genre Wise 23:49 How Mara Eventually Planned Out Her 5-Book Series 26:50 The Appeal Of Turning Old Time Stories Into New Adult-Like Ones 29:16 Delving Into The Mind Of A Romatasy Author 31:55 Breaking Stereotypes: Why People Shy Away From Romantasy 34:25 AI In Book Writing: Romantasy Style 38:02 Did Mara Use AI When Writing Her Book 38:09 Was Mara A Natural Born Creative 41:50 The Movie Dream Cast For Barley Corn Girl Adaption 44:05 Why People Enjoy These Kinds Of Stories So Much 46:15 How Mara Feels About Scenarios Linked With Her Books Message 48:40 What's The Major Takeaways From The Barley Corn Girl 50:22 Has Mara Dealt With Lust & Love Like Her Book Describes 51:24 AUDIOBOOK Discussion 59:11 Closing Thoughts About The Podcast: Authors By Us is a podcast focused on bridging the gap between readers and authors - going beyond the book to explore the real stories, experiences, and perspectives behind the pages. Each episode is designed to help you understand the author on a deeper level so by the end, it feels like you’ve just had a conversation with them yourself. Call To Action: If you enjoy conversations like this, make sure to subscribe for weekly episodes with authors sharing the real story behind their work. #authorinterview #authorpodcast #bookpodcast #writingpodcast #podcast #storytelling #behindthebook #authorsbyus #writerlife #authorlife #amwriting #booklovers #readersofyoutube #bookcommunity #writingcommunity #readers #writers #books #authorsofyoutube #podcastshow author interview podcast, book podcast for readers, storytelling podcast, behind the book podcast, author conversation podcast, writing podcast for authors meet the author podcast, how authors write books, author journey stories, writing process explained, books and authors discussion, reader and author connection deep dive author interview, podcast for book lovers, understanding authors, story behind the book, author insights podcast, writing and storytelling insights

    1h 9m
  2. Jun 17

    Inside the Fantasy Book That Hits Closer Than It Should. Silver Steps – Stephen Ray

    In this insightful interview, author Stephen Ray shares his journey of overcoming ADHD and Tourette's, the creative process behind his fantasy series, and the importance of authentic representation of mental health in fiction. Discover how personal struggles can fuel compelling storytelling and learn practical tips for aspiring writers. What You’ll Learn: Personal journey with ADHD and Tourette's World building in fantasy series Authentic representation of mental health Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:58 What Is Stephen's Mission Regarding His Book 03:35 What It Was Like Growing Up With Multiple Disorders 06:59 How Art Became an Outlet for Expression 12:31 What Stephen Learned From His Previous Book 14:45 The Sources Stephen Used To Understand His Characters 17:35 Are Characters The Most Important Aspect Of Books 18:48 How AutoBiographical Is Silver Steps 22:18 Fiction vs Self-Help: A Gateway To Understanding 24:23 Does Silver Steps Have World Building 25:30 How Stephen Built A Whole World Around Disorders 29:01 Addressing Misrepresentation of Disorders in Literature 33:40 How Stephen's Kickstarter Went 38:27 Stephen's Unique Creature Concept In Silver Steps 43:54 The Value Of Fantasy Literature 47:25 Does Stephen's Disorders Affect His Children 50:21 Stephen's Transition Into Ministry & Christianity 53:46 Is Stephen A Better Writer Because Of ADHD & Tourettes 56:06 Stephen's New Series Heretic Cycle 01:03:39 Closing Thoughts About The Podcast: Authors By Us is a podcast focused on bridging the gap between readers and authors - going beyond the book to explore the real stories, experiences, and perspectives behind the pages. Each episode is designed to help you understand the author on a deeper level so by the end, it feels like you’ve just had a conversation with them yourself. Call To Action: If you enjoy conversations like this, make sure to subscribe for weekly episodes with authors sharing the real story behind their work. #authorinterview #authorpodcast #bookpodcast #writingpodcast #podcast #storytelling #behindthebook #authorsbyus #writerlife #authorlife #amwriting #booklovers #readersofyoutube #bookcommunity #writingcommunity #readers #writers #books #authorsofyoutube #podcastshow author interview podcast, book podcast for readers, storytelling podcast, behind the book podcast, author conversation podcast, writing podcast for authors meet the author podcast, how authors write books, author journey stories, writing process explained, books and authors discussion, reader and author connection deep dive author interview, podcast for book lovers, understanding authors, story behind the book, author insights podcast, writing and storytelling insights

    1h 14m
  3. Jun 10

    Trauma Survivor Reveals the One Thing That Healed Her... And Almost Destroyed Her

    Summary: In this heartfelt interview, Morgan Jackson shares her journey of surviving childhood trauma, writing her impactful book 'Survivor's Grief,' and her path to healing through poetry and storytelling. Discover insights on the seven stages of grief, the importance of hope, and how to find safe spaces for healing. What You’ll Learn: Seven stages of grief Healing through poetry Survivor's journey and hope Trauma and mental health awareness Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:59 The Mission Behind Survivor's Grief 02:36 How Morgan Would Describe Herself Outside Of Her Book 03:30 Why She Enjoys The Quieter Side Of Life 04:47 The Journey From Silence To Sharing 06:31 Is It Easier To Discuss Trauma With Others Opposed To Friends & Family 08:57 What Allowed Morgan To Heal From Her Trauma 10:20 Did She Believe Her Counselor 12:13 When Did It Make Sense For Morgan To Write Survivors Grief 13:38 Why Poetry Of All Things? 14:57 The Power of Poetry 16:52 Was There A Poem In Survivors Grief That Hit Morgan The Hardest 18:30 Understanding the Seven Stages of Grief 21:39 Which Stage Of Grief Hit Morgan The Hardest 23:04 Which Stage Do People Not Spend Enough Time In? 25:22 When To Read Survivors Grief 27:24 Why Do People Going Through Trauma Feel Alone? 29:18 Why Our Society Still Doesn't Spread Much Awareness On Trauma 30:32 How Do We Spread Awareness On Trauma 33:31 The Writing Process & Emotional Toll It Had On Morgan 35:17 Did Morgan Have An Outlet While Writing Her Book 37:02 Who Is The Specific Reader For This Book? 37:27 Did Survivors Grief Teach Morgan Anything About Herself 38:38 Morgan's Goals Moving Forward As An Author 41:33 Did Morgan Affect Anyone's Life With Survivors Grief 42:55 How Can Someone Close The Gap On Functioning vs Feeling Safe 46:43 Morgan On Parenting Through Trauma 51:04 One Takeaway From Survivors Grief 52:03 What Helped Morgan To Break Out Of Her Shell 53:52 Was Morgan Very Self-Conscious At Some Point 55:02 Is Morgan's New Duology Implementing Things From Her Life 57:00 When To Expect Her New Duology, Kinda 58:03 Morgan's Goals Beyond Just Author Things 58:59 What Would Old Morgan Think Of Today's Morgan 59:47 Where You Can Find Morgan 01:02:11 Closing Thoughts About The Podcast: Authors By Us is a podcast focused on bridging the gap between readers and authors - going beyond the book to explore the real stories, experiences, and perspectives behind the pages. Each episode is designed to help you understand the author on a deeper level so by the end, it feels like you’ve just had a conversation with them yourself. Call To Action: If you enjoy conversations like this, make sure to subscribe for weekly episodes with authors sharing the real story behind their work. #authorinterview #authorpodcast #bookpodcast #writingpodcast #podcast #storytelling #behindthebook #authorsbyus #writerlife #authorlife #amwriting #booklovers #readersofyoutube #bookcommunity #writingcommunity #readers #writers #books #authorsofyoutube #podcastshow author interview podcast, book podcast for readers, storytelling podcast, behind the book podcast, author conversation podcast, writing podcast for authors meet the author podcast, how authors write books, author journey stories, writing process explained, books and authors discussion, reader and author connection deep dive author interview, podcast for book lovers, understanding authors, story behind the book, author insights podcast, writing and storytelling insights

    1h 15m
  4. Jun 3

    He Builds The Future At Google. His Book Asks Whether That Future Is Worth Living In

    Summary: In this episode, Blaski shares his unique perspective on how technology, art, and philosophy intertwine, particularly through his debut novel United Worlds. We dive into the nature of human consciousness, the potential of virtual reality, and the philosophical implications of living in a simulated or virtual universe. What You’ll Learn: Blaski’s personal journey from Argentina to Silicon Valley, driven by passions for art and technologyThe influence of cultural background and travel experiences on his worldviewHow obsession and passion drive creativity in art and techThe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on his writing process and worldviewThe concept of expanding human capabilities through technologyThe philosophical debate around consciousness, artificial intelligence, and virtual realityThe creation of the Screenplay Novel, blending cinematic and literary storytellingThe potential for and ethical implications of living in virtual worlds or simulationsThe debate over AI’s role in creative industries like publishingFuture projects and the possibility of film adaptations of his work Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 01:05 Blaski The Man Behind United Worlds 03:17 Where Does Blaski's Obsessive Personality Come From 05:41 What Was Growing Up in Argentina Like? 10:31 Journey to the U.S.: Education and Career Aspirations 12:01 What's It Like Working At Google 14:26 Where Did This Passion For Tech Come From? 16:13 The Impact of the Pandemic On Blaski's Life 20:16 Virtual Reality Stories And Why It Had An Impact During The Pandemic 22:15 Why United Worlds Became A Book Instead Of Something Else? 25:22 What Are People Getting With United Worlds 28:21 Did Blaski Have Beliefs That Were Challenged When He Came To The States 32:18 Why Was Self-Publishing A Big Deal For Blaski 36:27 Is The World Ready To Question Digital Consciousness IRL 40:38 Would Blaski Jump At The Opportunity To Become Digital? 42:53 Blaski's POV On What Is Technology 45:29 Does Blaski Believe We Live In A Simulation 47:19 Blaski's Thoughts On The Fast Paced Tech Landscape 50:29 The Good & The Bad; The Dual Nature Of VR? 54:13 Does Blaski Have Future Projects Planned? 55:40 How Did Blaski Find Time To Write United Worlds 58:02 Did Blaski Ever Feel Burnout? 01:00:03 Blaski's Personal Stance On AI In Book Writing 01:04:08 What Are Screenplay Novels? 01:06:43 What If United Worlds Got A Film Adaption? 01:10:26 What's The One Thing People Should Know About Blaski 01:14:20 Closing Thoughts About The Podcast: Authors By Us is a podcast focused on bridging the gap between readers and authors - going beyond the book to explore the real stories, experiences, and perspectives behind the pages. Each episode is designed to help you understand the author on a deeper level so by the end, it feels like you’ve just had a conversation with them yourself. Call To Action: If you enjoy conversations like this, make sure to subscribe for weekly episodes with authors sharing the real story behind their work. #authorinterview #authorpodcast #bookpodcast #writingpodcast #podcast #storytelling #behindthebook #authorsbyus #writerlife #authorlife #amwriting #booklovers #readersofyoutube #bookcommunity #writingcommunity #readers #writers #books #authorsofyoutube #podcastshow author interview podcast, book podcast for readers, storytelling podcast, behind the book podcast, author conversation podcast, writing podcast for authors meet the author podcast

    1h 22m
  5. May 27

    He Quit Every Project He's Ever Started... Except One

    Summary: In this insightful interview, Carson Hawkes shares his journey through creativity, problem-solving, and writing. Discover how his diverse experiences in industrial design, travel, and media influence his storytelling and personal growth. What You’ll Learn: Carson Hawkes' background in industrial design and mediaThe influence of travel and life experiences on creativityStrategies for balancing multiple creative pursuits Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 01:13 What Defines Carson Hawkes As A Person 03:40 The Journey Of Creativity & Problem Solving 05:58 Was Carson Just Naturally Gifted As A Creative 06:56 Carson On Creating Games When He Was Younger 09:44 How Carson Obtained So Many Creative Outlets 11:10 Does He Really Have Scatterbrain Or? 15:37 Carson Is A Religious Man 17:11 What Did Russia Teach Carson About Himself 19:38 Finding Balance and Perspective 21:26 What Is "The Shadow Spark" About? 24:00 Do Moments From Carson's Life Show Up In The Shadow Spark 28:44 How Carson Planned Out His Book 30:33 Should People Look At Their Lives More For Inspiration 33:49 Genre Blending & Readers Expectations 37:49 The Gamble of Going Against the Grain 40:17 Carson On Navigating Self-Doubt and the Writing Process 42:28 How Carson Balanced Full-Time Work & Writing 46:48 Carson's New Trilogy, Explained 48:40 Can We Add Reading To Carson's Interests 52:45 How Can People Go From Being A Consumer To A Doer 58:09 Carson's Thoughts On Conflict Being The Catalyst For Growth 01:01:39 The Human Side Of Carson As An Author 01:05:43 Does Carson Have Any Regrets 01:08:30 Carsons Future Goals & Aspirations 01:14:21 Closing Thoughts About The Podcast: Authors By Us is a podcast focused on bridging the gap between readers and authors - going beyond the book to explore the real stories, experiences, and perspectives behind the pages. Each episode is designed to help you understand the author on a deeper level so by the end, it feels like you’ve just had a conversation with them yourself. Call To Action: If you enjoy conversations like this, make sure to subscribe for weekly episodes with authors sharing the real story behind their work. #authorinterview #authorpodcast #bookpodcast #writingpodcast #podcast #storytelling #behindthebook #authorsbyus #writerlife #authorlife #amwriting #booklovers #readersofyoutube #bookcommunity #writingcommunity #readers #writers #books #authorsofyoutube #podcastshow author interview podcast, book podcast for readers, storytelling podcast, behind the book podcast, author conversation podcast, writing podcast for authors meet the author podcast, how authors write books, author journey stories, writing process explained, books and authors discussion, reader and author connection deep dive author interview, podcast for book lovers, understanding authors, story behind the book, author insights podcast, writing and storytelling insights

    1h 28m
  6. May 20

    Writing Was Tearing Her Body Apart. She Wrote 2 Books Anyway.

    Summary: In this insightful interview, author E.L. Lyons shares her journey through creativity, mental health, and the challenges of writing with dysgraphia. Discover how her passion for stories and nature shaped her unique path to becoming an author, despite physical and psychological hurdles. E.L. Lyons shares their journey from writing and editing to publishing her epic fantasy novel, highlighting the importance of worldbuilding, dealing with criticism, and overcoming personal challenges. Discover insights on creative process, worldbuilding, and the resilience needed to succeed as an author. What You’ll Learn: E.L. Lyons' childhood and love for natureImpact of dysgraphia and ADHD on her writingThe role of her father in inspiring her love for sci-fi and fantasyHer journey through college and overcoming writing painThe influence of her family and personal experiences on her stories Worldbuilding in fantasy using science and animal neurologyThe importance of editing and rewriting in writing processOvercoming personal challenges and self-doubt as an author Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 01:05 Is E.L. Lyons The Same Person In & Out Of Her Book 02:58 What Does Scatterbrain Mean? 05:27 Where Does Her Desire To Learn Come From? 08:49 The Balance Of Scatterbrain vs Focused Learning 11:57 Lyons Thoughts On Authors Lives Being Reflected In Their Books 15:39 How Her Dad Influenced Her With Scary Stories 17:28 Is Lyons A Thrill Seeker? 21:24 Was Her Dad The Reason For Her Love Of Fantasy 24:41 Lyons Mother Was The Responsible One 26:15 Is Starlight Jewel A Homage To Her Dad? 30:22 What Is Dysgraphia? 32:56 Lyons Need To Write Despite Her Disorder 42:05 When Did Writing Start Feeling Like An Instinct Rather Than A Habit 44:56 It's Never About Having Natural Talent 47:38 E.L. Lyons On Joining A Writers Group & Her Path To Publishing 53:15 E.L's Thoughts On What People Would Think Of Her Book 55:59 What Do We Get With Starlight Jewel? 01:02:57 How Did This Idea Of Animal Neurology Come Into Starlight Jewel 01:10:53 Talk About Making Someone Interested In A Book 01:12:50 How E.L's Obsession With Editing Built This Story From The Ground Up 01:18:55 How She Overcame Self-Doubt With Writing 01:27:08 Does Lyons Still Struggle With Acknowledgement + Her Advice To You 01:37:55 A Personal Insight About Lyons You Won't Learn Elsewhere  01:42:54 Closing Thoughts About The Podcast: Authors By Us is a podcast focused on bridging the gap between readers and authors - going beyond the book to explore the real stories, experiences, and perspectives behind the pages. Each episode is designed to help you understand the author on a deeper level so by the end, it feels like you’ve just had a conversation with them yourself. If you enjoy conversations like this, make sure to subscribe for weekly episodes with authors sharing the real story behind their work. #authorinterview #authorpodcast #bookpodcast #writingpodcast #podcast #storytelling #behindthebook #authorsbyus #writerlife #authorlife #amwriting #booklovers #readersofyoutube #bookcommunity #writingcommunity #readers #writers #books #authorsofyoutube #podcastshow author interview podcast, book podcast for readers, storytelling podcast, behind the book podcast, author conversation podcast, meet the author podcast, how authors write books, author journey stories, writing process explained, books and authors discussion, reader and author connection, deep dive author interview, podcast for book lovers, understanding authors, story behind the book,

    1h 56m
  7. May 13

    She Wrote Her Own Trauma Into a Mafia Trilogy

    Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of S.J. Taylor, author of the Danger by Association trilogy, and her insights on writing, healing through storytelling, and the cultural richness of New Orleans. Keywords: Writing journey, Healing through stories, New Orleans culture, Mafia romance, Character development, Author interview, Mental health, Creative process, Series analysis, Literary inspiration Key  Topics Author's journey from childhood to writing career Healing and processing trauma through storytelling Cultural influences of New Orleans on her books Deep character development and vulnerability The concept of opposing forces and complex characters Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:06 S.J's Journey Before Danger By Association 03:51 The Cause That Made 12 Yr Old S.J Fall In Love With Writing 05:31 What's It Like Growing Up With 9 Other Children 06:41 How Writing Helped S.J Find Herself 09:56 The Affect Being Able To Help People With Words Has On S.J's Life 13:14 How S.J Incorporated Realness & Raw Feelings Into Her Book 15:39 What Do We Get With The Danger By Association Trilogy 18:04 How Deep Does This Opposing Forces Go In This Series 20:28 What Makes An Amazing Villain In S.J's Opinion 22:27 The Role of Perspective in Storytelling 24:51 The Essence of New Orleans in Writing 26:25 How New Orleans Affected S.J's Life Outside Of Writing 28:10 Her Favorite Part About New Orleans 29:11 Are We Able To Feel New Orleans Within Her Series 30:15 The Unique French Mafia Setting 34:04 Building Her Characters From The Middle Ground, Why? 36:57 The Price of Innocence, Protection, and Loyalty 40:04 Exploring Book Two: A Unique Take on Beauty and the Beast 43:08 Author's Reflection: Would She Make The Same Decisions As Her Characters 45:52 Books That've Affected S.J's Life 49:53 What Interests S.J Beyond Books 51:17 The Importance of Art in Society 55:25 The Takeaways From Danger By Association 57:22 What Is S.J's New Project Coming Soon 01:00:37 Balancing Life As A Mother & Author 01:03:58 The Benefits of Homeschooling 01:07:13 Something About S.J You Won't Learn From Her Books 01:09:46 Closing Thoughts Section

    1h 20m
  8. May 6

    What Kind of 13-Year-Old Decides to Build an Entire Fantasy Universe and Actually Follows Through?

    In this engaging interview, young author J.A. Watson shares her inspiring journey from childhood reading obsession to publishing her own fantasy series at a remarkably young age. Discover how her passions for dragons, archaeology, and engineering intertwine to shape her creative process and future ambitions. Keywords Young author, fantasy series, world building, creativity, engineering, archaeology, writing process, female characters, inspiration, self-development Key topics Journey from childhood to published author Influence of fantasy and archaeology on writing Balancing engineering studies with creative pursuits World building and series planning in fantasy Representation of female characters and femininity Guest Name J.A. Watson Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:05 The Journey Of A 20 Year Old Author 05:36 What Caused This Deep Seated Creative Itch From Such A Young Age 10:41 Some Of The Series J.A Couldn't Put Down 12:49 The Writing Process and Challenges 14:59 Does Understanding Engineering Help With Creativity 20:33 How J.A Incorporated Her Essence Into A Race Against Shadows 24:57 The Average Age For A Published Book vs J.A 27:12 How She Was Capable Of  Infusing Her Story With Feminine Rage 32:01 World Building & Organization 35:58 J.A's Self Discovery Between Reading & Writing 37:44 J.A's Love For Archaeology & Paleontology 42:41 Rediscovering Curiosity in a Fast-Paced World 47:24 The Impact of Community and Book Events 50:57 Future Aspirations & Goals For J.A 55:28 Where J.A's Deep Seated Love For Nature Comes From 57:23 How 4th Grade J.A Would Feel About Current J.A 58:10 One Thing People Can Takeaway From This Conversation About J.A 01:00:08 How J.A Tapped Into The Feelings Of Her Characters 01:02:32 Has A Race Against Shadows Cost Her Emotionally 01:07:04 What People Should Feel After They Close J.A's Book For The Last Time 01:10:25 Closing Thoughts Section

    1h 22m

About

Authors By Us is a podcast dedicated to bridging the gap between readers and authors. In other words bringing readers and authors closer together. Too often, we put our favorite ones on a pedestal and only know them through their pages. This show asks: What if we closed that gap? Each episode features a slow, meaningful conversation with an author, emerging voices, and familiar favorites alike. We talk about their books and writing process, but we additionally do more than that. We explore their lives, their thoughts, their experiences, and the stories behind the stories. By the end of each conversation, you won’t feel like you just listened to an interview. You’ll feel like you’ve made a new friend in the author’s chair.