Living The Next Chapter: Candid Conversations with Authors and Writers for Readers Searching for a New Read

Dave Campbell,
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Living The Next Chapter: Inspiring Conversations with Amazing Authors and Writers - Better Questions, Better Conversations, Better Connections Are you an avid reader or an aspiring writer seeking inspiration to embark on your own literary journey? Look no further! Welcome to "Living The Next Chapter," the podcast that celebrates the world of books and writing. Join us as we connect you with captivating authors who have mastered the art of storytelling. Living The Next Chapter is more than just a podcast. It is a platform built for meaningful conversations, authentic storytelling, and real connection within the literary world. Each episode highlights inspiring authors who openly share their journeys, including the struggles they have overcome, the triumphs they have achieved, and the lessons they have learned along the way. This is a space where better questions lead to better conversations, and ultimately, stronger connections. Whether you are an experienced author or continuing to grow your voice, this platform offers a unique opportunity to expand your reach, elevate your message, and connect with a global audience that is passionate about books and writing. This show is always ad free, if you love what you hear, please refill our coffee cup here!   https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediacahttps://livingthenextchapter.com/ Author Podcast, Podcast for Authors, Book Podcast, Authors, Writing, Books, Literature, Storytelling, Creative Writing, Bestselling Authors, Interviews with Authors, Writing Tips, Publishing Insights, Book Recommendations, Author Experiences, Literary Discussions, Writing Process, Inspiring Conversations with Authors, How to Write a Book, Tips for Aspiring Writers, Behind the Scenes of Writing, Exploring Author Journeys

  1. 1d ago

    E767 - Karen E Osborne - Justice For Emerson - Dual time-line murder mystery

    EPISODE 767 - Karen E Osborne - Justice For Emerson - Dual time-line murder mystery In this episode, author Karen E. Osborne reflects on her writing life, her craft, and the community that surrounds it. A former New York‑based professional in philanthropy and leadership, Karen now lives in Port Saint Lucie, Florida, and has built a rich second chapter as a published novelist and podcaster. She shares that she began writing fiction late in life, publishing her first novel at age sixty‑nine, and has since produced a steady string of books while remaining deeply committed to both her creative process and the people who support it. Karen emphasizes three core principles for aspiring writers: write consistently, study your craft, and find your tribe. She explains that “writers write” is not just a slogan—it means showing up regularly, even if it’s just fifteen minutes a day, and letting that small commitment accumulate into completed stories. She also underscores the importance of reading widely in and beyond one’s genre, attending workshops, and joining writers’ groups so that the learning never stops. For her, a strong writing community—whether local coffee‑shop friends or international writer pals met online—has been essential fuel for resilience and growth. The conversation then turns to her own body of work, which centers on strong, flawed, relatable women confronting social issues amid suspense‑driven plots. Karen talks about novels such as Tangled Lies, a murder mystery featuring two unlikely sleuths across generations and races, and Reckonings, a family drama about a middle‑child protagonist struggling to find her footing. She also discusses Getting It Right, soon to be re‑released as a psychological thriller, and the upcoming reimagined version she’s written to align with a new sequel that took her by surprise. Her latest novel, Justice for Emerson, centers on Aria, a fifty‑year‑old Black widow running a nonprofit for the unhoused who discovers a beloved Vietnam‑vet volunteer murdered in her workplace. As Aria investigates, the story unfolds across timelines, weaving in issues of race, class, addiction, and how the past shadows the present. Throughout the discussion, Karen reveals that her fiction is character‑driven, shaped by people who feel real to her as she writes. She describes how characters often correct or reshape her assumptions—changing their age, class, or decisions—forcing her to revise her outline and deepen their humanity. Even her “bad guys” are layered and complex, reflecting her belief that most people are neither all good nor all bad. This approach means readers often feel deeply invested in her characters, sometimes reaching out to her mid‑read to express concern or attachment, which she cherishes as proof that her stories have come alive. Karen also shares candidly about the long road to publication, including the seventy‑eight rejections Tangled Lies received before finding a publisher and going on to become part of an ongoing yearly publishing rhythm. Her journey is a steady reminder that persistence matters more than perfection or timing, and that it is never too late—or too early—to start telling stories. She invites listeners to explore her podcast What Are You Reading? What Are You Writing?, where she interviews authors and other creatives about their work and reading lives, and to visit her website for details on her books, events, and her monthly newsletter focused on books and creative life rather than self‑promotion. Key takeaway for listeners: Writing is a journey of regular practice, continuous learning, and meaningful connection. Whether you are just starting out or far along the path, showing up for your writing, deepening your craft, and building a supportive community can make the difference between a story that stays in your head and one that reaches readers’ hands. Book: Justice for Emerson by award-winning author Karen E. Osborne is a gripping dual-timeline murder mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat. In March 2024, Aria Wright, a driven CEO of a nonprofit, makes a chilling discovery—the body of Vietnam veteran Cal Emerson in her building’s basement. Meanwhile, menacing figures shadow her every move. Across the decades, in 1968, young Emerson is thrust into the horrors of Vietnam on the very day Martin Luther King Jr. is assassinated. As the story alternates between two dangerous weeks in the present and Emerson’s turbulent journey from soldier to addict to selfless volunteer, deep connections emerge. How do two murders, separated by more than 50 years, intertwine? Why are Aria and her enigmatic ally Jax in danger? And can Jax break through Aria’s walls to prove love is worth the risk? https://www.kareneosborne.com/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

  2. 3d ago

    E766 - Nicolette Halladay - Inspired Hearts Publishing, The Golden Thread & The Lineage of the Light

    EPISODE 766 - Nicolette Halladay - Inspired Hearts Publishing, The Golden Thread & The Lineage of the Light In this heartfelt conversation, Nicolette Halladay, founder of Inspired Hearts Publishing and author of The Golden Thread & The Lineage of the Light, shares a deeply personal look into her writing journey and the transformative power of storytelling. Speaking from her home near the Colorado and Utah border, Nicolette reflects on the importance of trusting yourself as both a writer and a human being navigating life’s challenges. At the core of her message is a call for authors to release perfectionism and write from the heart. She emphasizes that doubt is a natural part of the creative process, especially in the early stages, but growth comes from leaning into authenticity and allowing your voice to expand. Surrounding yourself with supportive communities, mentors, and fellow creators can make the journey less isolating and far more meaningful. Nicolette also highlights her work in publishing, where she supports both new and experienced authors through writing, production, and marketing. She shares how different authors require different types of guidance, from foundational support for beginners to platform-building strategies for seasoned writers. Her passion lies in helping individuals who have experienced transformation or adversity turn their stories into powerful connections for others. A significant portion of the conversation centers on the origin of her book. Following a difficult relationship that left her feeling disconnected and searching for clarity, Nicolette experienced a vivid vision of a “golden thread.” This symbol became a guiding force in her healing and creative process, representing protection, truth, joy, and connection. What followed was an intense period of writing, where much of the book flowed through her in a short time, capturing both her emotional journey and spiritual insights. The setting of Silverton, Colorado, where she reconnected with family and spent time writing in a historic home, played a powerful role in grounding and inspiring her work. She describes the environment as both awakening and deeply supportive, reinforcing her belief in unseen guidance and ancestral connection. Throughout the episode, Nicolette encourages listeners and aspiring authors to document their experiences, especially during times of upheaval. Whether through writing, art, or other creative outlets, capturing these moments can lead to clarity, healing, and meaningful storytelling. Her book is not positioned as a story of having it all figured out, but rather as an honest exploration of moving through pain, rebuilding self-trust, and finding meaning in the process. It invites readers to see themselves within the journey and recognize their own capacity for growth and healing. Key takeaway: Trust yourself through the creative process and through life’s most difficult moments. Your story, even in its messiness, holds the power to heal, connect, and inspire both you and others. https://nicolettehalladay.com/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

  3. 5d ago

    E765 - Barb Rebon - A journey through trauma, faith, and ultimately self-acceptance

    EPISODE 765 - Barb Rebon - A journey through trauma, faith, and ultimately self-acceptance In this episode, guest Barb Rebon shares her deeply personal journey from a childhood dream of becoming a nun to embracing her true self after decades of inner conflict. Originally from Tampa, Florida, Barb entered the convent at 16 with the Disciples of Jesus and Mary in Boston, drawn by a longing for the family and safety she lacked at home amid abuse, dysfunction, and her mother's witchcraft practices. Despite rigid rules—no close friendships, daily prayers from 5 a.m., studies, and media work like printing presses—she formed a taboo bond with an older nun, sparking confusion over her emerging feelings toward women while grappling with trauma. Barb left after 18 months but persisted, later joining her dream order, the Sisters of Saint Francis of Sales, in 1989 after a rare exception from the Mother General in Rome waived their parental marriage requirement. In New Jersey, familiar surroundings brought temporary peace, yet doubts resurfaced—questioning attractions to men, clashing with superiors, leading to her exit at 20. She remained close to the sisters for eight years, burying a haunting secret experience that intensified her shame. Moving to Irwin, Pennsylvania, in 1999 for a secret relationship with a woman marked further turmoil; even family queries were denied amid guilt rooted in faith. At 45, Barb finally voiced "I am gay" to a supportive friend, breaking years of silence on sexuality, self-harm, and pain. Now 56 and a school teacher, she refuses the closet, hoping her memoir—releasing by late May for Pride Month—fosters understanding. Key Takeaway: Silence amplifies torment, but voicing your truth to a trusted ally can liberate you—embrace who you are without shame. Barbara Rebon has spent more than three decades shaping young lives as a passionate and compassionate educator. Known for her creativity and quiet strength, she has built classrooms where students feel safe, valued, and understood during some of the most important years of their development. Her work has always centered on lifting others, even while carrying a story of her own that remained largely unseen. Behind that steady presence was a silence rooted in a childhood marked by abuse, neglect, and betrayal. That silence followed her into adulthood, influencing her sense of identity, her faith, and the way she navigated the world. In environments where truth felt unsafe, she learned to protect herself by holding it in, convincing herself that silence was safer than being fully known. Now living in Pennsylvania after growing up in Florida, Barbara continues her work as an educator while stepping into a new purpose as a voice for those still navigating their own silence. Through her story, she offers more than reflection. She offers hope, showing that even after years of being unheard, your voice still matters and your story is never finished. https://www.motivationchamps.com/authors/barb-rebon/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

  4. Sep 11

    E764 - Gary Wise - Certified PGA of Australia member - No Junk Reps, the Adaptive Performance State,

    EPISODE 764 - Gary Wise - Certified PGA of Australia member - No Junk Reps, the Adaptive Performance State This episode features Gary Wise, an Australian-born performance coach whose journey spans elite surf lifesaving, professional golf, and decades of coaching athletes at the highest levels. Now based in Florida, Gary reflects on a life shaped by sport, discipline, and ultimately a deeper understanding of how the mind influences performance. Gary’s early years were defined by movement and competition, from ocean rowing and surf lifesaving in Australia to rugby, water polo, and eventually golf. What began as a casual introduction to golf through caddying evolved into a professional career, taking him from competitive play into coaching. Along the way, he developed a unique perspective that blends physical performance with mental awareness. At the heart of this conversation is Gary’s concept of adaptive performance, a framework built on five key actions: recognize, identify, align, transfer, and accept. Rather than focusing solely on outcomes, he emphasizes decision making in the present moment. Whether it’s a young golfer facing pressure on the final hole or a lifeguard responding to an emergency, the goal is the same: match actions to intent while staying grounded in what matters right now. Gary challenges the widespread misinformation that surrounds performance, particularly in youth sports. He highlights how unrealistic expectations, often fueled by social media and misunderstanding of professional statistics, create unnecessary pressure and anxiety. A seven-foot putt on the PGA Tour, for example, is only made about half the time, yet young athletes are often made to feel like failure is not an option. This disconnect, he explains, can shape confidence and identity in harmful ways. The conversation also explores the role of parents and coaches, urging a shift away from control and toward support. Gary stresses the importance of allowing young athletes to make decisions, learn from mistakes, and develop ownership over their performance. Interference, even when well intentioned, can create doubt and disrupt focus in critical moments. Gary’s book, No Junk Reps, grew out of a thesis on performance and evolved into a deeply personal project that challenged him in unexpected ways. Writing forced him to confront gaps in memory, vulnerability, and identity, ultimately reinforcing his belief that everyone has a story worth telling. His advice to aspiring writers is simple: start, let go of control, and allow the process to unfold. Throughout the episode, Gary returns to a central idea: we often see things not as they are, but as we are. By learning to manage attention, filter information, and stay present, both athletes and individuals can make better decisions and perform with greater clarity. Key takeaway: True performance is not about perfection or outcome, but about mastering the ability to stay present, make clear decisions, and align your actions with what matters most in the moment. https://ijga.com/coaches/gary-wise/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

  5. Sep 9

    E763 - Mark Hummel - A fast-paced dark comedy, Man, Underground

    Episode 763 - Mark Hummel - A fast-paced dark comedy, Man, Underground Mark Hummel’s most recent work is the award-winning dark, comic novel Man, Underground. He is also the author of the novel In the Chameleon’s Shadow and the short story collection Lost and Found. He has been publishing fiction, essays, and poetry in literary magazines and anthologies since 1991. His work has appeared, among many other places, in the pages of The Arlington Literary Journal, The Bloomsbury Review, Dogwood, Fugue, Per Contra, Talking River Review, The Wrath-Bearing Tree, Weber: the Contemporary West, and Zone 3. Writing as Mark Leichliter, he is the author of the crime novel The Other Side. Writing Is a Lifelong Practice Mark Hummel Leichliter has spent his life around writing as a writer, editor, teacher, coach, and mentor. He believes writers improve through practice and remain students of their craft throughout their careers. The page can teach you, especially when you approach the work with curiosity and an openness to learning. Good readers play a major role in that process. Mark relies on trusted readers who care enough to identify problems and help him see possibilities within a manuscript. Their feedback can reveal paths that remain hidden while a writer stays too close to the work. Follow the Book Mark writes across genres and deliberately embraces experimentation. He follows the needs of each book rather than forcing every project into the same approach. A new manuscript can demand a different voice, structure, perspective, or narrative strategy. That philosophy also shapes his view of publishing. Writers can waste valuable energy chasing trends, studying the market, or trying to predict what publishers want. Mark encourages writers to focus on creating the best book they can and to write the book they want to read. Man, Underground Mark's 2023 novel, Man, Underground, grew from an idea he began exploring more than a decade earlier. The dark comedy follows a middle-aged man who withdraws from society and builds an underground home. His unconventional life attracts scrutiny and labels him as someone who does not fit accepted expectations. A seventeen-year-old named Monica changes everything. Her determination to help him creates an unexpected friendship and gives the story a path toward connection, hope, and change. The novel explores the human tendency to label people as different and push them outside the community. Mark uses comedy to examine serious social questions while allowing the story to move toward empathy and connection. Mark's approach to writing centers on curiosity, experimentation, trusted readers, and a willingness to follow where the story leads. Man, Underground reflects that philosophy through a story about isolation, unexpected friendship, and the possibility of finding connection across perceived differences. https://markhummelwriter.com/man-underground/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

  6. Sep 8

    E536 - Julie Riga - Stay on Course The Life and Legacy of Ennio Riga, Chef to the Stars

    Episode 536 - Julie Riga - Stay on Course The Life and Legacy of Ennio Riga, Chef to the Stars When Ennio Riga passed away in February 2016, he left behind an incredible legacy. To his many admirers who enjoyed his delicious culinary creations, he was a world-renowned chef.  To Julie Riga, he was a loving father who taught her the importance of leadership, perseverance, and determination. About the Author Julie Riga, Ennio’s daughter, continues his legacy as a leadership coach, trainer, speaker, and author. In compiling the stories for the book, Julie carries on Ennio’s tradition by helping others reflect, and then decisively act on, their own calls to greatness. https://www.stayoncourse.io/ ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

  7. Sep 8

    E280 - Kyle Jetsel - The Loss of A Spouse, Raising Kids With Autism and Measuring the COST

    EPISODE 280 - Kyle Jetsel - The Loss of A Spouse, Raising Kids With Autism and Measuring the COST In the heart of adversity, our guest today, Kyle Jetsel, discovered that life's most formidable challenges could be transformed into profound opportunities for growth. Growing up in a tough neighborhood Kyle found himself in a world where the line between safety and chaos was razor-thin. In this episode, Kyle takes us on a deeply personal journey, sharing how he navigated the turbulent seas of his youth. Kyle faced yet another colossal test of faith when his beloved wife of 30 years, a source of love and strength, suddenly passed away. The impact of this loss was felt not only in his own life but also within the lives of their six children, one of whom has a severely aggressive form of autism. It was in these darkest hours that Kyle leaned into God's strength like never before. He turned to a simple yet powerful strategy that helped him find his way back to hope and healing, all while knowing that God's grace was the cornerstone of his journey. Get ready to be deeply moved by Kyle's remarkable journey of faith and resilience, proving that we are never alone when we lean on God's strength and embrace His mysterious, undeserved grace. This episode is a testament to the human spirit's ability to rise above adversity. To download your free copy of his book "Facing My Biggest Fear. 180 Days of Surviving and Thriving After the Death of My Beloved Shelly" and the worksheet he shares, check the comments for the link. You may reach Kyle at https://www.youtube.com/@drivenautismdad187 Published: Nov. 17, 2023 ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

  8. Sep 7

    E762 - J.M. Werlein - Professional Horse Trainer Takes the Reins as Author of The Adventures Of The Last Wives Club

    EPISODE 762 - J.M. Werlein - Professional Horse Trainer Takes the Reins as Author of The Adventures Of The Last Wives Club In this episode, the conversation moves between a life built around horses and the deeper meaning found in caregiving, writing, and community. The guest shares how she grew up in White Bear Lake, Minnesota, began writing at age five, and later built a career training hunters and jumpers, working with everything from off-the-track thoroughbreds to warmbloods. She explains how horses are intuitive, social, and highly responsive to the emotions people bring into the barn, which makes training both a physical and mental discipline. That same sensitivity carries into the personal story behind her writing. When her father developed Alzheimer’s, she began keeping notes about her parents and their experience, which eventually became the foundation for her first book, The Adventures of the Last Wives Club. The book grew out of her mother’s friendship with other women caring for husbands with Alzheimer’s, and it reflects how people keep moving forward through grief, responsibility, and change. She talks honestly about the emotional difficulty of caregiving, the need for patience, and the strange but necessary adjustments families make to protect peace and dignity. The conversation also explores how writing became a second calling. She describes learning by trial and error, leaning on supportive friends who helped edit her work, researching details online, and writing in a way that follows the energy of the moment rather than forcing a perfect process. She hopes to keep writing more as she eventually steps back from horses, and she is already working on a horse-centered book that also touches on bullying, class tension, and the social world around barns and horse shows. Across the episode, a strong theme emerges: both horses and people respond to consistency, honesty, and calm leadership. Whether she is training a horse, helping a student, or writing about family life, the lesson is the same: meaningful progress comes from patience, clear boundaries, and staying present for the relationships that matter most. Key takeaway: The episode is a reminder that the best stories often come from lived experience, and that caregiving, training, and writing all ask for the same things: patience, empathy, and the willingness to keep showing up. https://www.facebook.com/Werlein60 Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

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Living The Next Chapter: Inspiring Conversations with Amazing Authors and Writers - Better Questions, Better Conversations, Better Connections Are you an avid reader or an aspiring writer seeking inspiration to embark on your own literary journey? Look no further! Welcome to "Living The Next Chapter," the podcast that celebrates the world of books and writing. Join us as we connect you with captivating authors who have mastered the art of storytelling. Living The Next Chapter is more than just a podcast. It is a platform built for meaningful conversations, authentic storytelling, and real connection within the literary world. Each episode highlights inspiring authors who openly share their journeys, including the struggles they have overcome, the triumphs they have achieved, and the lessons they have learned along the way. This is a space where better questions lead to better conversations, and ultimately, stronger connections. Whether you are an experienced author or continuing to grow your voice, this platform offers a unique opportunity to expand your reach, elevate your message, and connect with a global audience that is passionate about books and writing. This show is always ad free, if you love what you hear, please refill our coffee cup here!   https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediacahttps://livingthenextchapter.com/ Author Podcast, Podcast for Authors, Book Podcast, Authors, Writing, Books, Literature, Storytelling, Creative Writing, Bestselling Authors, Interviews with Authors, Writing Tips, Publishing Insights, Book Recommendations, Author Experiences, Literary Discussions, Writing Process, Inspiring Conversations with Authors, How to Write a Book, Tips for Aspiring Writers, Behind the Scenes of Writing, Exploring Author Journeys

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