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

    E741 - Anne Beall - The Compassionate Writer - Find Your Voice, Enhance Your Story and Touch Lives

    EPISODE 741 - Anne Beall - The Compassionate Writer - Find Your Voice, Enhance Your Story and Touch Lives In this episode, author and social psychologist Anne Beall invites listeners into a life shaped by curiosity, compassion, and a deep belief that every person has a story worth telling. She shares how her path from research psychology into the business world and, eventually, into full time writing and literary editing grew out of a desire to understand people more fully and communicate with them more effectively. That journey includes founding and running a market research company for over two decades, selling it, and then dedicating herself to writing books and leading the Chicago Story Press Literary Journal, which focuses on meaningful, insight rich creative nonfiction. Anne describes how her lifelong love of animals led to exploring the emotional intelligence and depth of connection possible between humans and other species. From service llamas who intuitively comfort residents in assisted living to a pig that can identify English words on a soundboard, she recounts stories that challenge our assumptions about animal awareness and underline her conviction that many beings understand us in ways we barely recognize. Those experiences informed her book about heartfelt connections with animals and reinforced her broader commitment to writing about relationships, empathy, and unseen emotional bonds. At the heart of the conversation is Anne’s book about compassionate writing and her belief that good storytelling requires a nuanced view of human nature. Instead of dividing people into heroes and villains, she argues that powerful writing reveals everyone as flawed, complex, and deeply human. She explores the difference and overlap between empathy and compassion, suggesting that compassion is not just a feeling but an action: the deliberate effort to understand why people behave as they do, including ourselves. By looking at life’s painful or confusing events through a compassionate lens, writers can find meaning in their experiences and translate that understanding onto the page in ways that help readers see themselves more clearly and judge themselves less harshly. Drawing on her role as an editor, Anne talks about what makes a story a good fit for a literary journal, why certain themes become overrepresented, and how even strong work can be rejected for reasons beyond an author’s control. She emphasizes persistence, the value of revisiting and strengthening work after repeated rejections, and the reality that numbers and timing often shape publication outcomes as much as quality. Throughout, she returns to the idea that emotional resonance matters most: writers and readers are both seeking stories that illuminate life, particularly around loss, family, identity, and the moments that change us. Anne also speaks directly to listeners who may not see themselves as writers. She encourages anyone who journals or reflects on their life to view those pages as meaningful work that can bring healing and clarity, especially when approached with self compassion.  Key takeaway: You are worthy of your story. Approaching your life and your writing with compassion – for yourself, your characters, and your readers – can turn painful or confusing experiences into meaningful narratives that touch lives, including your own. https://annebeall.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. 4d ago

    E740 - Carter Vance - A story of living, loving and growing up on Canada's Parliament Hill

    EPISODE 740 - Carter Vance - A story of living, loving and growing up on Canada's Parliament Hill In this engaging episode, author Carter Vance shares his writing journey with host Dave, connecting as fellow Canadians. Originally from the small town of Cobourg, Ontario—famous for its literal Big Apple roadside sculpture and summer beach—Carter credits a high school teacher's encouragement for launching his creative path. She connected him with local cafe owners for poetry readings, sparking his early involvement in plays, school magazines, and submissions to prestigious outlets like Arc Poetry Magazine, which offered a mentorship that honed his skills in audience focus, form, and resilience against rejections. Reflecting on advice he'd give his younger self, Carter emphasizes demystifying publishing, treating writing like a disciplined job—as Stephen King advocates with daily hours—and clarifying one's unique "why" amid abundant content. Creative writing, for him, captures intangible life moments and fosters empathy by letting readers inhabit others' minds, unlike film or music. His diverse career, including policy work in Canada, the UK, Indonesia, and Parliament (as a House leader staffer from 2015-2019 and Senate role), humanized politicians as flawed individuals, revealing unexpected alliances, young staffers' influence, and information's power in decision-making. Carter's debut novel, Smaller Animals (released November), draws from these experiences, following young Canadian political staffers' relationships and growth amid power dynamics—"smaller animals" behind the spotlight. Comparable to Arthur Phillips' Prague, Hemingway's The Sun Also Rises, or Sally Rooney's works, it appeals to politics enthusiasts and character-driven readers alike, requiring no deep parliamentary knowledge. He discusses staff autonomy, grunt work evolving to info control, and hopes readers connect personally while gaining insights into unseen influencers. Amid recent Canadian tragedies, Carter finds hope in political maturity, rising public engagement, and openness to change. Upcoming: a short story in Plentitude magazine, more writing, and ideas like a Berlin Wall saga. Key Takeaway: Writing thrives on encouragement, discipline, and authentic voice—craft stories that build empathy and unique perspectives, turning personal experiences into shared connections. https://cartervance.ca/ 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. 6d ago

    E739 - J. Bellante Ward - The Wyrd of Skulda Discover Norns, the three legendary females who control time

    EPISODE 739 - J. Bellante Ward - The Wyrd of Skulda Discover Norns, the three legendary females who control time In this engaging episode of Living The Next Chapter, host Dave welcomes debut fantasy author J. Bellante Ward, a dental hygienist from Virginia originally from Maryland, who stumbled into writing after a coworker praised her knack for words in a simple professional email. Nervous but thrilled for her first podcast appearance, J. shares how she penned her Norse mythology-inspired series in just two months, embracing her "pantser" style where the plot unfolded organically through character journeys rather than rigid outlines. She discusses battling impatience for instant gratification, learning not to chase perfection—since human imperfections make stories relatable and distinct from AI-generated content—and finding her authentic voice about a quarter into the manuscript, shifting to a more confident tone. J. dives into her series' core: three Norns controlling past, present, and future, reimagined in a world without cell phones or modern tech to emphasize raw human connections and epic quests. Book one follows Bren, the Norn of the future from a dark kingdom, on a self-discovery path amid romance, "smut," and battles against an evil king seeking to dominate the realms via the tree of life. Unplanned characters like Bren's sarcastic best friend stole her heart, earning future books, while part one builds the world lightly and part two accelerates into non-stop action. She credits advice from patients and fellow authors, like writing the ending at 80% to race smoothly to the finish, and cut filler for a lean, approachable read even for fantasy newcomers. ​ Marketing challenges surface too: J. finds social media inauthentic and mentally draining, preferring genuine conversations like this interview over forced videos, and pitches her elf-and-mythology tale proudly despite adult awkwardness. A vivid reading from chapter three paints a terrifying swamp creature encounter, drawing from head-to-toe details inspired by quirky YouTube like Salad Fingers. Her real "moment" came from a stranger's glowing review, not pre-sales from supporters. Looking ahead, book two launches soon, with Instagram and Facebook as key follows. ​ Key Takeaway: Embrace your creative flow without perfectionism—human flaws and organic storytelling connect deepest with readers, proving anyone can birth a world from a spark. https://www.instagram.com/j.bella.ward.writes/ 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. Jul 13

    E738 - Lalitha Ramanathan - Parenting Unplugged and Kanmani and Co - Five Friends and a Cat Tackle the World

    EPISODE 738 - Lalitha Ramanathan -  Parenting Unplugged and Kanmani and Co - Five Friends and a Cat Tackle the World In a different lifetime, I worked in Finance, burying myself in MS Excel sheets. One day, I rekindled my passion for writing, and Excel paved way for Word, and my life has never been the same again. Writing is my oxygen, and I write every single day. Over time, I have amassed millions of words, through stories that encapsulate bits of my soul. My favourite topics include parenting, fiction, children’s stories, and any place where there is scope to insert a pinch of humour. Now that you are here, wondering what to read? My stories have found a place in some anthologies. Here, you can find the collections in which my works feature, as well as a sneak peek into my upcoming publications. https://lalitharamanathan.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

  5. Jul 13

    E592 - Joe McClean - Screenwriter, Author and Director - Putting Yourself Out There and Into Your Story, That is Where the Opportunity Lies

    Episode 592 - Joe McClean - Screenwriter, Author and Director - Putting Yourself Out There and Into Your Story, That is Where the Opportunity Lies Joe made a bunch of short films and one feature length movie with friends and no money. To this day, I enjoy watching those early attempts to craft a story, but essentially this era of on-the-job-training was my film school. Now it was time to take my first big swing.  I wrote a script I felt I could raise enough money to shoot myself, a found-footage film, and I spent a year begging for cash and favors. The star of a hit TV show, who had gone to the same high school as me, graciously agreed to act in it. An NBA player made a small investment. Actor, comedian, and Late Show with David Letterman regular, Jay Thomas agreed to make a cameo. The snowball was growing and eventually I scraped together enough cash to direct Life Tracker. The movie played over 20 science fiction conventions and got a digital distribution deal with Charter Communications (now Spectrum) and streamed into millions of American homes. Life Tracker  Great! Now I needed a follow up to prove that my work ethic couldn't be mistaken for beginner's luck.​ Taking advantage of a group of talented actor friends and another who owned property outside of Fresno, I wrote and directed a super-low-budget homage to The Big Chill called The Drama Club which can currently be seen on Tubi. The Drama Club  Looking back from that point, I could see the years of work I'd put in. Meeting people. Working with casts and crews. Going on adventures together. taking risks and building trust. Jobs started to fall into place. I signed my first manager. I joined the Writers Guild of America. I pitched big shot producers at legacy studios and powerhouse production companies. Always searching for that next opportunity. That's when I met Blair Underwood. A business lunch turned into an attachment (and a friendship), and soon I was hitting up everyone I'd ever done business with to see who wanted to join the team. Viral was written and produced by me, it's directed by and stars Blair, and he shares the screen with Sarah Silverman, Jeanine Mason, and the incomparable Alfre Woodard! The movie is finished and we're actively working with our sales team to bring it to audiences. In the mean time, I’m working with Amistad (an imprint of HarperCollins Publishing) on a two-book deal titled Sins of Survivors about the plight of a family who lived in the once vital African American neighborhood of Black Bottom in 1930s and 40s Detroit. The first book is currently available everywhere books are sold, and the second hits shelves in the summer of 2026... So, go to your local bookstore's website get your copy! Why "Ginger Beard," you ask? My wife's maiden name is "Beard," and when our son was born he had a reddish tint to his hair. So, my company is named after my son, my "Ginger Beard"... It's only a bonus that I have red facial hair. https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-mcclean-6668b018 https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0565697/ https://www.gingerbeardfilms.com/ Wednesday, September 17, 2025 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. Jul 13

    E494 - Donny Young - The 4MIDABLES, Inspector Gadget, The Cannonball Run Movie and Putting Yourself Out There

    EPISODE 494 - Donny Young - The 4MIDABLES, Inspector Gadget, The Cannonball Run Movie and Putting Yourself Out There Author and screenwriter Donny Young shares an inspiring journey through a creative career built on persistence, curiosity, and a willingness to embrace opportunity. From writing episodes of Inspector Gadget on a Smith Corona typewriter to developing his newest young adult adventure series, The 4MIDABLES, Donny reflects on the experiences that shaped both his storytelling and his outlook on success. Listeners are taken behind the scenes of the entertainment industry as Donny recounts how one opportunity naturally led to another. He shares stories from writing for one of television's most beloved animated series, appearing alongside legendary Hollywood stars in The Cannonball Run, and learning valuable career lessons through unexpected encounters with industry icons. Throughout the conversation, a common theme emerges. Creative careers are rarely built through a single breakthrough, but through consistently showing up, saying yes to new experiences, and remaining open to where those experiences may lead. Donny also introduces The 4MIDABLES, a project that has evolved over many years from an animated television concept into an ambitious young adult novel series. Designed around teamwork, empathy, problem solving, and family friendly storytelling, the series reflects his belief that exciting adventures can inspire young readers without relying on violence or sensationalism. For aspiring writers, Donny offers thoughtful advice drawn from decades of experience. He discusses the value of studying acting to better understand character, reading widely within your chosen genre, embracing rejection as part of the creative process, and continually improving your craft. Above all, he encourages writers to remain patient with themselves and to remember that every experience adds depth to the stories they will eventually tell. This conversation is both a celebration of storytelling and a reminder that success often comes from perseverance, preparation, and the courage to keep creating, even when the next opportunity is still out of sight. Key Takeaway Creative success is rarely the result of one defining moment. By continuing to learn, putting yourself in places where opportunity can find you, and refusing to let setbacks define your journey, you give your work the best chance to reach the audience it was meant for. Writer for the iconic “INSPECTOR GADGET” cartoon series. Inspector Gadget: Volcano Island (Gadget Goes Hawaiian) Season 1, Episode 15 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rlb-BKVhS3g Extra in Cannonball Run The Cannonball Run Final Scene and End Credits https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mUOaxwA5Wic Excited to introduce 4 amazing Teens who solve major crimes anonymously! https://www.instagram.com/the4midables/ Original Publish date: Friday, January 31, 2025 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. Jul 13

    E142 - Laura Cayouette - Actor, Writer, Producer, Blogger - Character Development and Author Tools

    E142 - Laura Cayouette - Actor, Writer, Producer, Blogger - Character Development and Author Tools A professional actor for over 25 years; Django Unchained, Now You See Me, Kill Bill, Enemy of the State, True Detective, Friends & more. Endorsements from actor/filmmakers Richard Dreyfuss, Kevin Costner, Lou Diamond Phillips, Reginald Hudlin, Adam Rifkin & more. Private coach available through Zoom, Skype and FaceTime for actors/writers/filmmakers, UNO Adjunct teaching directors how to work with actors​​. Guest teacher. Speaker. LEARN HOW LAURA WENT FROM WRITING 1 BOOK IN 20 YEARS TO 5 BOOKS IN 4 YEARS! Go from an idea to a completed book – no matter your writing skill level. Avoid writer's block. Feel stimulated and creative – while moving at a pace you never thought possible.   Let Laura help you tell your stories in less time and with less stress. https://lauracayouette.com/ Original Publish Date: Feb. 23, 2023 @ 6AM 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. Jul 10

    E737 - Ben Schenkman - Challenging readers’ conventional thinking and the complexities of moral dilemmas

    EPISODE 737 - Ben Schenkman - Challenging readers’ conventional thinking and the complexities of moral dilemmas In this engaging conversation, author and voice actor Ben Schenkman returns to chat about his creative journey, his latest release My Brother’s Keeper, and the many realities of being an independent author in today’s publishing landscape. Ben opens with a personal story about his family’s love of vintage guitars—a nod to his musical roots and his identical twin brother’s collection connected to their Woodstock‐era mother. From there, the conversation evolves into one of the most honest explorations of indie author marketing you’ll hear. Ben breaks down what really works when promoting your books and what doesn’t, drawing from firsthand experience running Facebook, Amazon, and BookBub ads. His message is simple and refreshing: books sell books, and advertising a single title rarely pays off until an author has multiple works available. Ben shares practical, field‑tested advice inspired by David Gaughran’s “Demystifying Facebook Ads” series, explaining why Facebook remains one of the few ad platforms that can still produce results—if authors learn to take control and target the right readers. He then contrasts ads with BookBub Featured Deals, describing how well-timed offers can create lasting exposure, especially for multi‑book series. But long before any ads go live, he emphasizes, authors must focus on collecting authentic reviews, not just from friends and family but from real readers whose balanced feedback adds legitimacy. The heart of the episode revolves around My Brother’s Keeper, the darkly magical first installment in The Cycle of Ash. Set in an alternate New Haven, Connecticut, the story blends Jewish mysticism, urban fantasy, and noir detective grit. Private investigator Max Asher returns home to bury his twin brother—and quickly discovers the death may not be what it seems. The novel’s emotional depth, grounded world‑building, and spiritual underpinnings reflect Ben’s personal connection to his Jewish heritage and his lived experiences as a twin. Ben also pulls back the curtain on his creative process—how he uses beat sheets from Save the Cat Writes a Novel to manage pacing, why reader feedback matters more than formulas, and why no story can satisfy every audience. For aspiring writers, his candor is invaluable: embrace imperfection, learn your genre, and write with emotional truth. As the episode wraps, Ben looks ahead to the March 30 release of My Brother’s Keeper and a virtual launch celebration with the Fantasy & Sci‑Fi Fanatics podcast in early April. He also reminds fellow creators to celebrate every milestone—whether it’s finishing a first draft or earning that first genuine review—and to recognize that publishing any book is an extraordinary achievement. Key Takeaway: Success as an indie author isn’t about chasing algorithms or outsmarting ad platforms; it’s about writing honest stories, connecting with real readers, and valuing progress at every stage of the creative journey. https://benschenkman.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

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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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