Idiosyncratic Fables

James R. Cheatham
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Leisure
  • Updated Semiweekly

Everyone has a story to tell. Everyone is worthy to be heard. Everyone is a little unique, unusual, and weird in their own way and I want this to be a space that is safe to be just that. I not only want to hear your story, but I want to give you an opportunity to share it. Whether it’s a story that’s personal to you, or if you have a story you want to read, I want you to have the freedom to share it. This is Idiosyncratic Fables.

  1. 3d ago

    Doug Lohse Returns: From Fighter Pilot to Dungeon Emperor + LitRPGCon 2026

    Author Doug Lohse is back on the show for an action-packed return episode! Since his last visit, Doug has finished writing Dungeon Emperor Ascendant (Elsewhere Book 6), and the brand-new Elsewhere Omnibus (Books 1-3) has just released — perfect for new readers wanting to dive into Duke’s epic journey in one go. In this conversation we discuss: The evolution of the Elsewhere series and what to expect in Book 6 The new Omnibus edition and why now is a great time to jump in Life as a LitRPG author while balancing a demanding day job Doug’s experience with audiobooks (as [Your Name] is currently narrating Book 6!) His excitement for LitRPGCon in Denver next week — panels, meetups, and more Whether you’re a longtime fan of Duke’s aerial battles and dungeon conquests or brand new to the series, this episode is packed with insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and LitRPG community talk. Grab the Elsewhere Omnibus and catch up before Book 6 drops! #LitRPG #ElsewhereSeries #DungeonEmperorAscendant #LitRPGCon2026 #WildernessFireProductions #IdiosyncraticFables #Audiobook #Narrator #Podcast   Join my Discord community here: https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc

    39 min

  2. Jun 25

    From Breaking Bad to the Booth: Mastering Voices with Steve Corona

    In this episode, we sit down with acclaimed audiobook narrator and actor Steve Corona to explore the fascinating craft of bringing stories to life through voice alone. Steve has narrated hundreds of titles across sci-fi, fantasy, LitRPG, thrillers, and nonfiction. A trained theater artist with an MA in Theatre Arts, he’s also appeared on screen in Breaking Bad, Army of the Dead, The Lone Ranger, and more. As a sought-after accent and dialect coach, he’s worked with Hollywood talent including Helen Mirren and Gerard Butler. We dive deep into: How Steve creates unforgettable character voices and maintains consistency across massive series The art and technique of mastering accents and dialects What it’s really like going from on-camera acting to the solitary (but powerful) world of the recording booth The rapid growth of the audiobook industry and tips for authors hiring narrators His personal journey, including reading entire Harry Potter series to his kids with distinct voices for every character Whether you’re an audiobook lover, aspiring narrator, writer, voice actor, or just fascinated by performance and storytelling, this conversation is packed with practical insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and plenty of vocal wisdom. Tune in for an inspiring look at one of the most important — yet often invisible — roles in modern storytelling. Steve Corona: Award-winning narrator, actor, and dialect coach. Available now on all major platforms. Find Steve and his work here: https://www.coronaproductions.org Join my Discord server here: https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc #AudiobookNarrator #VoiceActor #Audiobooks #VoiceActing #SteveCorona #BreakingBad #FantasyBooks #LitRPG #Accents #PodcastEpisode #WildernessFireProductions #IdiosyncraticFables

    48 min

  3. Jun 19

    Building the Audiobook Empire: Jess Herring on Indie Audio Success

    In this episode, I sit down with Jess Herring, founder of Audiobook Empire and former “Audiobookworm,” one of the most trusted names in indie audiobook production. Jess shares her journey from passionate audiobook blogger to building a full-service production company that helps indie authors create professional, high-quality audiobooks — from casting narrators and managing production to multilingual releases and strategic launches. We dive into: What indie authors need to know before investing in an audiobook How to find and work successfully with narrators The current state of AI narration vs. human performers Practical tips for turning your book into a profitable audio experience Behind-the-scenes stories from the Audiobook Empire Whether you’re an author, narrator, or audiobook lover, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and real-world advice you won’t find anywhere else. Tune in now and discover how to succeed in the booming world of audiobooks!   Be sure to join my Discord community too! https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc #AudiobookEmpire #Audiobooks #IndieAuthor #AudiobookProduction #IndiePublishing #AuthorLife #WritingCommunity #PodcastForAuthors #WildernessFireProductions #IdiosyncraticFables #podcast

    53 min

  4. Jun 18

    Chaos, Slugs & Progression: Reck Well on LitRPG and Cozy Mayhem

    Join us on Idiosyncratic Fables for a delightfully chaotic conversation with Reck Well, the LitRPG and cozy fantasy author behind the Potions and Perils series and the wildly entertaining Stumbling Up: A Loser’s Guide to Progression. In this episode, Reck dives into their journey from private writer to published author, the joys of writing deeply flawed characters who somehow keep leveling up, and why “loser protagonists” make for such compelling stories. We explore the cozy swamp vibes and found-family warmth of Potions and Perils, the banana slug shenanigans and questionable life choices in Stumbling Up, and how humor, heart, and humanity shine through both progression fantasy and low-stakes fantasy. Reck also shares insights on the evolving LitRPG genre, their writing process, building community as an indie author, and what it’s like balancing cozy comfort with genuine character growth and chaos. Expect laughs, honest craft talk, and plenty of idiosyncratic wisdom. Whether you’re a fan of cozy fantasy, LitRPG, underdog stories, or just enjoy watching characters make gloriously bad decisions on their way to victory, this episode is packed with warmth, wit, and inspiration. Reck Well — bringing the slugs, the stats, and the heart. Available now on all major platforms. Grab a potion (or a banana slug), hit play, and get ready to stumble up with us!   Be sure to join my Discord server too! https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc #IdiosyncraticFables #ReckWell #LitRPG #CozyFantasy #StumblingUp #PotionsAndPerils #BananaSlug #ProgressionFantasy #FantasyBooks #LitRPGPodcast #CozyFantasyBooks #IndieAuthor #FoundFamily #FantasyPodcast #BookTok #LitRPGCommunity

    44 min

  5. Jun 16

    Bilingual Narrator, PhD Scholar, Voice Actor: The Christopher Brown Story

    Join us for an engaging conversation with acclaimed audiobook narrator Christopher P. Brown (who also records romance and rom-com as Patrick Brawn). An English/Spanish bilingual narrator based in Rochester, NY, Christopher brings warmth, depth, and versatility to every project. AudioFile Magazine has praised his “immersive” narration and conversational tone. With training in scripted theater and improvisation — plus advanced degrees in Spanish Literature and Leadership Studies — he excels at bringing complex characters and stories to life across genres. In this episode, Christopher shares: How his theater, academic, and bilingual background shape his narration style The craft of creating distinct character voices, accents, and immersive performances Switching between epic fantasy, sci-fi, literary fiction, and steamy romance His home studio process, favorite projects, and the joys (and challenges) of the booth Valuable advice for aspiring narrators Whether you’re a dedicated audiobook listener, a aspiring voice actor, or just love great storytelling, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration.   Go check out his website here: https://christopherbrownaudio.com   Be sure to join my Discord server here: https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc #Audiobooks #AudiobookNarrator #ChristopherBrown #PatrickBrawn #VoiceActor #FantasyAudiobooks #RomanceAudiobooks #Audiobookstagram #BehindTheMic

    50 min

  6. Jun 11

    From US Marine to LitRPG Powerhouse: Sean Oswald’s Multiverse Journey

    Join us for an inspiring and high-energy conversation with one of LitRPG’s most prolific and multifaceted authors — Sean Oswald! From serving as a US Marine straight out of high school to earning a degree in ancient languages, doing missionary work in India, practicing law, and raising nine children, Sean brings a wealth of real-life experience to his storytelling. He’s the bestselling author of the hit series Welcome to the Multiverse, Life in Exile, Dragon Sorcerer, Draconic Core, and dozens more — with over 50 books written or co-written. In this episode, Sean opens up about his incredible journey, how his diverse background shapes his worldbuilding, and what it really takes to maintain that kind of creative output while balancing family and a legal career. We dive into LitRPG systems, power progression, writing massive interconnected universes, fatherhood, and the themes that drive his stories. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Welcome to the Multiverse or just discovering LitRPG, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and plenty of behind-the-scenes stories from one of the genre’s hardest-working authors. Find all of Sean's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B082P3914C Be sure to join my Discord here: https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc #LitRPG #SeanOswald #WelcomeToTheMultiverse #GameLit #LitRPGAuthor #ProgressionFantasy #WildernessFireProductions #IdiosyncraticFables

    45 min

  7. Jun 9

    From Danish Dad to Dragon Master: Lars Machmüller on LitRPG Success

    In this episode, we sit down with Lars Machmüller — Danish author, family man, and one of LitRPG’s most creative voices. From writing quirky bards who solve problems with music and wits to reincarnated dragons conquering the world and high-stakes card-deck battles, Lars has carved out a unique space in the genre with humor, heart, and smart game systems. We dive into his journey from part-time writer to full-time author, the challenges and joys of the World of Chains series (The Wayward Bard), the epic conclusion of the Dragon Core Chronicles, and his newest series Theft of Decks. Lars shares what it takes to build memorable characters, fresh mechanics, and stories that stand out in a crowded genre, plus practical advice for aspiring writers and plenty of behind-the-scenes stories. Whether you’re a longtime LitRPG fan or new to the genre, this conversation is packed with insight, laughs, and inspiration. Go check out his website here: https://larsm-writes.com His Patreon is here: https://www.patreon.com/Moulder666 Also join his Discord server here: https://discord.gg/z6S8RbKmT You can also join my Discord server here: https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc #LitRPG #GameLit #LarsMachmuller #DragonCore #TheWaywardBard #TheftOfDecks #LitRPGAuthor #FantasyBooks #Isekai #ProgressionFantasy #Audiobooks #IndieAuthor #podcast #idiosyncraticfables #wildernessfireproductions

    45 min

  8. Jun 5

    From Circuit Boards to Character Voices: Gary Bennett

    What happens when a successful electrical engineer walks away from circuit boards and business ownership to chase a passion for storytelling? You get one of the most versatile and compelling voices in audiobooks today. In this episode, I sit down with award-winning, SOVAS-nominated SAG-AFTRA narrator Gary Bennett. With over 270 audiobooks narrated for major publishers including Blackstone, Macmillan, Penguin Random House, and more, Gary has brought to life spies, wizards, vampires, trolls, conflicted heroes, and villains across thrillers, fantasy, sci-fi, mysteries, and historical fiction. Gary shares his remarkable career pivot, the meticulous craft of professional narration — from prepping a book and building distinct character voices (including British, Scottish, Italian, and Eastern European accents) to protecting vocal health during marathon recording sessions. We also explore the booming audiobook industry, the impact of AI, advice for aspiring narrators, and what it really takes to succeed behind the mic. Whether you’re an audiobook lover, aspiring voice actor, or someone who appreciates inspiring second-act stories, this conversation is packed with insight, warmth, and plenty of “how does he do that?” moments. Tune in to discover how Gary Bennett went from engineering to voicing entire worlds — one character at a time. Check out his website here: https://www.garybennettreads.com Are you an aspiring narrator? Click here: https://www.narratorsroadmap.com Join my Discord community here: https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc   #GaryBennett #AudiobookNarrator #VoiceActor #Audiobooks #BehindTheMic #NarrationCraft #SecondAct #CareerPivot #SOVAS #SAGAFTRA #AudiobookLovers #VoiceActing #Bookstagram #FantasyNarrator #ThrillerNarrator #PodcastInterview #Storytelling #AccentsAndVoices #AudiobookCommunity #ListenNow

    44 min
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About

Everyone has a story to tell. Everyone is worthy to be heard. Everyone is a little unique, unusual, and weird in their own way and I want this to be a space that is safe to be just that. I not only want to hear your story, but I want to give you an opportunity to share it. Whether it’s a story that’s personal to you, or if you have a story you want to read, I want you to have the freedom to share it. This is Idiosyncratic Fables.

Information

  • Creator
    James R. Cheatham
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    47
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright {2024} All Rights Reserved
  • Show Website
    Idiosyncratic Fables