Uncorking a Story

Michael Carlon
Uncorking a Story

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

  1. 3D AGO

    Rewriting Life’s Story, with Sam Woodruff

    “You have to start walking the path before the path is revealed to you.” – Samantha Greene Woodruff In this lively episode of Uncorking a Story, Mike sits down with bestselling author Samantha Greene Woodruff to unpack her unexpected journey from Nickelodeon executive to acclaimed historical fiction writer. Sam shares how yoga teacher training led to her first novel, how a fascination with lobotomy inspired The Lobotomist’s Wife, and why flexibility and courage are crucial for any writer. Along the way, they chat about music, karaoke, parenting, and what it takes to thrive in publishing today. Key Takeaways: Paths Aren’t Always Straight – Sam never dreamed of being a novelist; she found writing through yoga and staying open to new experiences. History + Storytelling = Magic – Historical fiction lets Sam meld her love of research with creative freedom, breathing life into overlooked eras. Research Smart, Not Just Hard – Sam learned to avoid research rabbit holes by looking up details as needed instead of overwhelming herself upfront. Deadlines Build Discipline – Tight timelines taught Sam efficiency, even if they felt punishing at times. The Author’s Business – Success today means seeing writing as a small business, from branding to marketing, especially since most authors get little publisher support. The Power of Community – Sam finds the writing world uniquely supportive, with authors encouraging each other despite fierce competition. Music Fuels Creativity – From Grateful Dead shows to karaoke renditions of “Sweet Child o’ Mine,” Sam’s love of music has always inspired her creative life. Sam’s Novels Amazon: https://amzn.to/4kZtM5p Connect with Sam Website: https://www.samanthawoodruff.com/ Instagram: ​​https://www.instagram.com/samgwoodruffauthor/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samgwoodruffauthor X: https://x.com/SWoodruffAuthor Connect with Mike Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/ If you liked this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. #SamWoodruff #HistoricalFiction #WritingCommunity #UncorkingAStory #AuthorsLife #TheLobotomistsWife #TheTradeOff #Publishing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    51 min
  2. JUL 3

    Casey Stengel, the Mets, and the Fight for NYC

    “There’s never been a movie or TV series about Casey Stengel—and he’s the most animated, fun-loving, Robin Williams-type of character ever. And I intend to change that.” — Mark Galley In this very special episode of Uncorking a Story, I’m joined by Emmy-winning PA announcer for the NY Mets Colin Cosell—yes, that Cosell—as we welcome author, creative force, and lifelong storyteller Mark Galley. Mark takes us behind the scenes of his new book How the Worst Was Won, a comedic, heartfelt, and historically rich look at the birth of the New York Mets. From Casey Stengel’s quirks to the bizarre and beautiful chaos of the 1962 season, Mark makes the case for why this story belongs on the screen. And trust me—you’ll never think of “traded for yourself” the same way again. Key Takeaways: How the Worst Was Won started as a 900+ page screenplay before becoming a book. Casey Stengel was more than a manager—he was the quirky, reluctant savior of the Mets franchise. The 1962 Mets weren’t just bad—they were legendarily bad, in the most entertaining way possible. The economic ripple effect of losing the Giants and Dodgers devastated NYC—until the Mets brought civic pride (and fans) back. Mark built fictional characters based on real fans to represent the five archetypes of Mets fandom. Colin Cosell draws powerful connections between the early Mets, the Savannah Bananas, and modern sports entertainment. Buy How the Worst Was Won Amazon: https://amzn.to/4jGdU67 Connect with Mark Website: https://www.markgalley.com/amazin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mgalley/ Connect with Mike Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/ If you liked this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. #UncorkingAStory #MetsHistory #CaseyStengel #MarkGalley #ColinCosell #BaseballStories #UnderdogTales #SportsDocumentary #Storytelling #PodcastInterview Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    41 min
  3. JUL 1

    Moving Forward and Counting Backwards, with Jacqueline Friedland

    “I don’t want to tell anyone what to think—I want to expose things and say, here’s what’s going on. What do you think about it?” — Jacqueline Friedland In this episode of Uncorking a Story, Mike Carlon sits down with bestselling author and former attorney Jacqueline Friedland to talk about her latest novel, Counting Backwards, and her inspiring journey from the world of law to the world of fiction. Jacqueline shares how a Supreme Court case she discovered at 17 sparked a lifelong interest in social justice—one that now informs her writing. We discuss the power of empathy in fiction, the challenges of writing from diverse perspectives, and how a legal background unexpectedly sharpens storytelling skills. Tune in for an engaging conversation about using fiction to raise awareness and connect hearts. Key Takeaways: Jacqueline’s unique path from commercial litigator to novelist How her latest novel Counting Backwards draws from real headlines and social justice issues The role of empathy in fiction writing Balancing legal expertise with storytelling Why writing is like running a small business today Navigating the pressures of writing a second book The importance of stepping into perspectives different from your own Buy Counting Backwards Amazon: https://amzn.to/45Ix1ZW Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9798888246931 Connect with Jackie Website: https://www.jacquelinefriedland.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JacquelineFriedlandAuthor/ X: https://x.com/jbfriedland Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackiefriedland/ Connect with Mike Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/ If you liked this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. #UncorkingAStory #JacquelineFriedland #CountingBackwards #FictionWithPurpose #EmpathyInWriting #WomenWriters #LegalThriller #SocialJusticeFiction #WritersLife #BookLoversPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    34 min
  4. JUN 26

    Navigating Life’s Next Period, with Lauren Tetenbaum

    “I want women to feel seen, supported, and connected—this chapter of life isn’t the end, it’s the beginning of something new.” — Lauren Tetenbaum Lauren Tetenbaum is an author, therapist, and advocate who helps millennial and younger women navigate the big transitions of life—from perinatal shifts to perimenopause and beyond. In this warm and insightful conversation, Lauren joins Uncorking a Story to talk about her new book, Millennial Menopause: Preparing for Perimenopause, Menopause, and Life’s Next Period. We explore why menopause is misunderstood, how storytelling and community can be powerful tools for healing, and why empathy should guide not just writing, but life. Whether you’re approaching midlife yourself or supporting someone who is, this is a must-listen. Key Takeaways: Menopause Misconceptions: Most people think of menopause as “the end,” when in reality it’s a transition and an opportunity for growth and empowerment. Perimenopause Education Gap: Many women (and providers) lack awareness of perimenopause symptoms and the mental health impacts that come with hormonal changes. Empathy in Writing & Therapy: Empathy is key to telling stories that resonate and supporting clients through life’s emotional roller coasters. Community Matters: Sharing experiences—whether through group chats, friend circles, or therapy—creates connection and reduces loneliness during transitional periods. COVID Reflections: The pandemic catalyzed career pivots, deepened community bonds, and gave Lauren space to pursue writing her first book. Reframing the Narrative: Rather than resisting or fearing menopause, women can embrace it as a new chapter filled with empowerment and self-discovery. Storytelling as Healing: Whether through journaling or creative writing, storytelling can be a powerful way to process grief, anxiety, and life transitions. Buy Millennial Menopause: Preparing for Perimenopause, Menopause, and Life's Next Period  Amazon: https://amzn.to/45x0m9C Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781646048106 Connect with Lauren Website: https://thecounselaur.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecounselaur/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenatetenbaum/ Connect with Mike Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/ If you liked this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. #MillennialMenopause #WomensHealth #Perimenopause #EmpathyInAction #StorytellingHealing #WomensMentalHealth #LifeTransitions #MidlifeEmpowerment #UncorkingAStory #PodcastInterview Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    33 min
  5. JUN 24

    Crime and Creativity, with Lina Chern

    “The essence of art is taking life’s randomness and shaping it into something meaningful.” — Lina Chern Lina Chern’s debut mystery Play the Fool earned major acclaim, winning the 2024 Mary Higgins Clark Award. Now she’s back with Tricks of Fortune, a darker, more nuanced follow-up inspired by a real-life incident in her community. In this candid conversation, Lina and Mike talk about the writer’s true superpower (curiosity), the difference between myth and reality, and how life experience shapes better storytelling. If you’re a fan of crime fiction, writing craft, or simply love hearing about the creative process, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways: Writing is a skill, not a lightning strike: Lina shares how persistence and practice mattered far more than innate talent in becoming a successful author. The author’s true superpower: It’s not stringing pretty sentences together — it’s following deep curiosity wherever it leads. Turning fact into fiction: Tricks of Fortune draws emotional truth from a real crime, but is highly fictionalized to respect the complexity of the story. Myth vs. Reality: The story explores how public figures (especially law enforcement) often cultivate myths that later unravel — rich territory for fiction. Writing with life experience: Lina feels her later-in-life writing career has benefited from deeper insight into people and the world. The pressure of book two: Success brings new expectations — from balancing new and returning readers to writing on deadline. The joy of writing community: Conventions, author events, and connecting with fellow writers has become a huge source of inspiration and camaraderie. Buy Tricks of Fortune Amazon: https://amzn.to/4meh2Zx Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9780593500682 Connect with Lina Website: https://www.linachern.com/ Twitter: https://x.com/ChernLina Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/linachernwrites/ Connect with Mike Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/ If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. #CrimeFiction #MysteryNovels #TricksOfFortune #WritingProcess #TurningFactIntoFiction #CreativityAndCuriosity #AuthorsLife #UncorkingAStory #PodcastInterview #LinaChern Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    27 min
  6. JUN 19

    Reverse Aging, Reclaim Life, with Dr. Grazyna Pajunen

    “You have to believe before you see—if you believe your body can rebuild itself, it will surprise you.” — Dr. Grazyna Pajunen Dr. Grazyna Pajunen never set out to be an author—but after 14 years of helping clients in the anti-aging space, she realized there was a need to put the basics in writing. In this inspiring episode of Uncorking a Story, we explore the world of biohacking through the lens of her latest book, Biohacking: A Way to a Better You—Look and Feel Better Than You Did 10 Years Ago.  From optimizing biological function to reversing the misconceptions around aging, Dr. Pajunen shares practical wisdom on how to take control of your health, reduce stress, and live with greater joy and vitality. If you’ve ever wondered how to truly age backward—or simply live your best life—this conversation is for you. Key Takeaways: Biohacking Defined: It’s the art and science of optimizing your body and mind through simple, systematic self-experimentation—often by removing obstacles rather than adding complexity. Aging Is Optional: Aging, as we traditionally define it, is a disease that can be slowed or reversed with the right mindset, habits, and understanding of how the body truly works. Your Body is a Masterpiece: Given the right materials and care, the body is capable of remarkable self-repair—starting with collagen, hydration, stress reduction, and intentional movement. Mindset Matters: You must believe change is possible before you see results. Intention, emotional state, and gratitude are critical to biohacking success. Small Steps Win: Don’t overhaul everything overnight. Start with simple changes—improving diet, adding movement, or adopting intermittent fasting—and build momentum gradually. Watch What You Put In: Be cautious of supplements—quality, bioavailability, and sourcing matter. Not all “health products” on the market are safe or effective. Perspective is Power: What you focus on grows—choosing gratitude and joy over stress and comparison leads to better health outcomes and a happier life. Buy Biohacking a Way to a Better You: Look and Feel Better than you did 10 years ago Amazon: https://amzn.to/4jQZgd7 Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9798888246931 Connect with Dr. Grazyna Pajunen YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GrazynaPajunen Website: www.agereversingsecret.com Connect with Mike Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/ If you liked this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. #Biohacking #HealthyAging #ReverseAging #WellnessJourney #MindBodyHealth #GratitudeMatters #UncorkingAStory #PodcastInterview #OptimizeYourLife #Longevity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    44 min
  7. JUN 18

    From Ghosts to Grace: How Kirsten Mickelwait Found Healing Through Storytelling

    This episode is brought to you by Mike Carlon's latest novel, the Waiting Room. Check out that #1 New Release in Inspirational Spiritual Fiction Here We all have resources inside ourselves. We can get through just about anything. — Kirsten Mickelwait In this moving and insightful episode of Uncorking a Story, Mike welcomes Kirsten Mickelwait—copywriter by day, author by night—whose memoir The Ghost Marriage explores her journey through profound loss, forgiveness, and unexpected spiritual awakenings. Kirsten opens up about how writing became a healing force in her life, why resilience matters, and the soulful inspiration behind her debut novel The Ashtrays Are Full and the Glasses Are Empty. From exploring the parallels between the roaring 1920s and today, to discussing empathy’s role in both fiction and marketing, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss. Key Takeaways: Writing as Healing — How Kirsten used memoir writing to process grief, anger, and forgiveness after a painful divorce and the death of her ex-husband. Unexpected Spiritual Journeys — The role of mediums and spiritual life coaching in shifting her perspective and healing old wounds. Resilience in Action — How persistence and inner strength helped her navigate financial hardship and life as a single mom. Parallels Across Time — Insights on the surprising similarities between the post-pandemic world and the 1920s Lost Generation. Empathy in Fiction — Why walking in your characters’ shoes is everything when writing compelling, emotionally honest stories. Marketing with Heart — The subtle but vital role of empathy when writing for audiences in marketing and PR. Pandemic Silver Linings — How a writers’ group during COVID reignited her creativity and led to the completion of her novel. Buy The Ashtrays Are Full and the Glasses Are Empty Amazon: https://amzn.to/42UYDJJ Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9798888246931 Connect with Kirsten Website: https://www.kirstenmickelwait.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kirsten.mickelwait Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kmickelwait54/ Connect with Mike Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/ If you liked this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. #UncorkingAStory #KirstenMickelwait #MemoirWriting #AuthorInterview #WritingAsHealing #GhostMarriage #HistoricalFiction #LostGeneration #EmpathyInWriting #Resilience #SpiritualAwakening #WomenWriters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    35 min
  8. JUN 17

    Facing the Jaguar: Babs Walters on Breaking the Chain of Generational Trauma

    “Each time I speak, someone comes up crying, saying they finally feel seen. That’s how I know the healing matters.” —Babs Walters Babs Walters has spent her life helping others find their voice—first through corporate training, and now through the courageous act of telling her own story. In this heartfelt episode of Uncorking a Story, Babs joins me to discuss her raw and inspiring memoir Facing the Jaguar, a story decades in the making. As a survivor of domestic violence and sexual abuse, Babs unpacks the long journey from disassociation to healing, how generational trauma shaped her family history, and how facing her own metaphorical jaguar allowed her to break a painful cycle. With grace, wisdom, and just the right amount of humor, Babs proves it’s never too late to speak your truth—or publish your first memoir at 80. Key Takeaways: The Healing Power of Storytelling – Writing Facing the Jaguar was not only cathartic for Babs but also a gift to others walking through their own trauma. Finding the Through Thread – The image of a jaguar chasing her in dreams as a child became a powerful metaphor for her survival and title of her memoir. Memoir Writing is Collaborative – From courses to accountability partners, Babs emphasizes that memoir isn’t a solitary act—it takes a village. Generational Trauma is Real – Babs’ parents were both survivors of their own unresolved pain. Understanding their stories helped her find grace for theirs. Secrets Hurt – Whether it’s incest, adoption, or addiction, families often avoid discussing difficult truths—and that silence causes lasting damage. It’s Never Too Late – Babs published her first memoir at 80, reminding us all that the right time to share your truth is when you’re ready. Encouragement is Courage Given – Through public speaking and advocacy, Babs continues to give others permission—and courage—to share their secrets. Buy Facing the Jaguar Amazon: https://amzn.to/4l1n7He Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781647429201 Connect with Babs Website:  https://www.babswalters.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557585332531 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/walters.babs/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FacingtheJaguar Connect with Mike Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/ If you liked this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. #MemoirWriting #TraumaSurvivor #GenerationalHealing #FacingTheJaguar #BabsWalters #AuthorInterview #WomensVoices #HealingThroughStory #UncorkingAStory #SpeakYourTruth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    40 min
4.9
out of 5
61 Ratings

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

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