In Conversation with Terry Shepherd

R Scott West - Smoke Rings: A Scruffy City Novel

What happens when the people trying to save a dying downtown become the criminals in its story? In this captivating episode of The Conversation, Terry Shepherd sits down with author R. Scott West to discuss his new book, Smoke Rings: A Scruffy City Novel. Twenty years ago, Scott and his wife Bernadette helped breathe life back into Knoxville's nearly abandoned Market Square. However, this historic preservation was secretly funded by a massive marijuana operation, eventually leading to federal indictments, seized property, and prison time. Now, Scott shares how he transformed this extraordinary chapter of his life into a highly entertaining, fictionalized Appalachian family saga. In this episode, we explore: The Market Square Miracle: Discover how Scott and Bernadette saw potential in downtown Knoxville when 33 out of 36 addresses were completely boarded up. The Perfect Crime Gone Wrong: Hear the details behind a $2.1 million historic preservation project that was secretly bankrolled by a 25,000-pound marijuana smuggling ring. Making Time Count: Learn about Scott’s resilient mindset during his four and a half years in federal prison, where he wrote four books, lifted weights, and composed songs while listening to an AM radio with a homemade Doritos-wrapper antenna. Blurring Moral Lines: Explore the uncomfortable territory between committing a federal crime and firmly believing you are doing something fundamentally good for a community. A Built-in Soundtrack: Find out why Scott wove 29 original punk rock lyrics into the novel as an Easter egg to help convey the psychology and mood of his characters. Whether you are interested in Southern crime, urban renewal, or a story about getting back up after losing everything, this interview delivers. You can learn more about the book and the author by visiting rscottwest.com. We all inevitably become the brand. And that's why I wrote, "How to Become a Dynamic Podcast Guest and Sell Stuff." It's a sweet and short primer that teaches you about the gear, the appearance and the messaging that can grab and hold today's micro-attention spans and motivate your listeners to take action. It's Just a dollar ninety nine at Amazon. Grab your copy today and sell mo

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Rich Dunning - Silence Was My First Language

In this profound episode, host Terry Shepherd sits down with author Rich Dunning to discuss his new memoir, Silence Was My First Language. Rich shares his harrowing yet deeply inspiring journey from a childhood marked by severe poverty, domestic violence, and teenage homelessness in the Bronx to becoming a highly successful senior executive in the medical device industry. For years, Rich's outward professional achievements masked an agonizing inner reality. He reveals how the survival tactics he learned as a five-year-old boy—remaining invisible and silent to avoid physical abuse from his stepfather—followed him deep into adulthood. Driven to disprove those who dismissed him as a "dog," Rich overachieved at work while privately battling an alcoholism that was introduced to him at age seven. With immense candor, Rich details the terrifying vacation wake-up call that saved him from taking his own life, his grueling path to sobriety through rehab and AA, and how he finally replaced silence with accountability. In This Episode, We Explore: The Weight of Childhood Trauma: How growing up in a violent home where he didn't speak English for his first five years forced Rich to adopt silence as his primary survival skill. The Facade of Success: The stark contrast between Rich’s demanding, high-pressure professional life and his fractured internal state. Rock Bottom and Recovery: The pivotal moment with his youngest son that pulled him back from a hotel balcony ledge and forever changed his trajectory. The Reality of Addiction: A brutally honest look at the selfish nature of alcoholism and the immense, unacknowledged toll it takes on spouses and children. Giving Back: The launch of The First Language Foundation, a volunteer-driven organization aiding youth facing abuse, food insecurity, and homelessness. Resources and Links: The Book: Silence Was My First Language by Rich Dunning (Launching October 6th). Website: Visit richdunningbooks.com Philanthropy: Rich personally donates $1 from every book sold in perpetuity to The First Language Foundation, ensuring 100% of those funds directly support children in need. We all inevitably become the brand. And that's why I wrote, "How to Become a Dynamic Podcast Guest and Sell Stuff." It's a sweet and short primer that teaches you about the gear, the appearance and the messaging that can grab and hold today's micro-attention spans and motivate your listeners to take action. It's Just a dollar ninety nine at Amazon. Grab your copy today and sell mo

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Gabriella Saab - The Survivors Guild

Join Terry Shepherd as he sits down with author Gabriella Saab to explore the history and heart behind her new novel, The Survivors Guild. The conversation dives into the little-known experiences of Lebanese immigrants aboard the Titanic and the unique challenges faced by survivors in the disaster's aftermath. Episode Highlights Saab reveals how attending a Southern Federation of Syrian Lebanese Americans convention introduced her to the forgotten history of Lebanese passengers on the Titanic. The discussion unpacks the stark contrast between Bea Nora, a resilient Lebanese woman seeking work to support her family, and Marguerite Ashby, a naive American heiress trapped by an impending arranged marriage. Saab shares the bizarre, true historical account of an upper-class woman taking in two unclaimed toddler boys after the sinking, which inspired the novel's emotional core. The episode explores the unique dynamic of Bea and Marguerite forming a charitable committee to find their rescued baby's next of kin and assist third-class survivors. Saab explains her authorial approach to balancing historical accuracy with narrative pacing, such as altering cabin placements to heighten the immediacy of the disaster. Saab reflects on her time co-hosting HF Chit Chat, a supportive online community for historical fiction writers and readers. About The Survivors Guild Instead of focusing solely on the famous shipwreck, the novel examines the complicated aftermath of survival. It highlights the heavy emotional and economic burdens of immigration, the rigid class rules of the Gilded Age, and the profound, isolating realities women faced across different socioeconomic backgrounds. Through their shared trauma and dedication to an orphaned boy, Bea and Marguerite forge an unlikely alliance that ultimately transforms their lives. Connect with Gabriella Saab Discover more about her writing at gabriellasaab.com. Follow her updates and historical insights on Instagram and Substack. Pick up a copy of The Survivors Guild and The Last Checkmate to support human authors and uncover hidden historical narratives. We all inevitably become the brand. And that's why I wrote, "How to Become a Dynamic Podcast Guest and Sell Stuff." It's a sweet and short primer that teaches you about the gear, the appearance and the messaging that can grab and hold today's micro-attention spans and motivate your listeners to take action. It's Just a dollar ninety nine at Amazon. Grab your copy today and sell mo

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K.B. Brodsky - Beyond Honor

Host Terry Shepherd steps into the shadowy world of international espionage and political betrayal with Bill and Karen Brodsky. Writing under the pen name K.B. Brodsky, this dynamic husband-and-wife duo joins the show to discuss their debut thriller, Beyond Honor. Beyond Honor launches a gripping new series that transports readers from the war-torn streets of Damascus to the frozen reaches of Siberia, and from Alaska's Kenai Peninsula to the halls of power in Washington. The story follows Kevin Rhodes, a grieving paramilitary operative tasked with a dangerous solo extraction in Russia, while CIA analyst Whitney Schuyler tracks a Russian-backed bank conspiracy that reaches all the way to the Oval Office. In this episode, Bill and Karen pull back the curtain on how two mild-mannered civilians crafted a high-stakes intelligence thriller and learned to navigate the delicate process of co-writing a novel after 30 years of marriage. In This Episode, We Cover: The Spark of Creation: How Bill secretly wrote the first 70 pages of the manuscript and surprised Karen with it. The Co-Writing Process: The couple's daily routine, their use of Google Docs, and their strict rule to never make edits without mutual approval. Building the Characters: How the authors balanced action and emotion to craft deeply human characters, from old-school Cold War spy Cynthia King to Russian operative Anya Pestova. A Grounded World: Why the authors prioritized believable, real-world inspirations over superhero tropes to create a mosaic of interconnected global stories. Looking Ahead: The exciting news of K.B. Brodsky's two-book deal with Simon & Schuster. Dream Casting: The couple's humorous Hollywood aspirations, including pitching Meryl Streep for the role of CIA head Summers. Connect with K.B. Brodsky: To learn more about Bill and Karen, or to pick up your copy of Beyond Honor, visit their official website at kbbrodsky.com. We all inevitably become the brand. And that's why I wrote, "How to Become a Dynamic Podcast Guest and Sell Stuff." It's a sweet and short primer that teaches you about the gear, the appearance and the messaging that can grab and hold today's micro-attention spans and motivate your listeners to take action. It's Just a dollar ninety nine at Amazon. Grab your copy today and sell mo

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Korey Rowe - The Soldier That Left: The Untold Story of Loose Change

In this episode, Terry Shepherd sits down with Korey Rowe—Army veteran, filmmaker, and entrepreneur—to discuss his raw new memoir, The Soldier That Left: The Untold Story of Loose Change. The conversation explores Rowe's extraordinary journey from the battlefields of the Middle East to producing one of the internet's first viral blockbusters, offering an unfiltered look at dissent, survival, and the search for identity. From the Front Lines to Dissent Rowe originally enlisted in the US Army to find direction as a high school dropout from a poor area of upstate New York. His very first day of basic training coincided with the September 11 attacks, rapidly pulling him into deployments across Afghanistan and Iraq. Deeply disillusioned by the loss of his fellow soldiers and innocent Iraqi lives, Rowe made the difficult choice to go AWOL rather than accept a forced third deployment. He spent six years navigating the fallout before finally presenting his case to an officer and receiving an honorable discharge. The "Loose Change" Phenomenon Teaming up with his childhood friend Dylan, Rowe pivoted a poorly acted fictional project into the controversial 9/11 documentary Loose Change. The film captured the cultural zeitgeist, dominating early streaming platforms like Google Video and sparking extreme reactions from both loyal grassroots supporters and fierce media critics. This viral explosion launched Rowe from a struggling veteran into Hollywood contract negotiations with major figures like Charlie Sheen and Mark Cuban. Mental Health and Rewiring the Mind Rowe candidly discusses living as a 100% PTSD-disabled veteran with Bipolar II disorder. He credits a combination of therapy, journaling, and cannabis (leading to his current role as a dispensary owner) for his survival during his darkest years. Today, he relies on a mental "operating system" built from stoicism, Adlerian psychology, and books like The Courage to Be Disliked to maintain a healthy perspective. We all inevitably become the brand. And that's why I wrote, "How to Become a Dynamic Podcast Guest and Sell Stuff." It's a sweet and short primer that teaches you about the gear, the appearance and the messaging that can grab and hold today's micro-attention spans and motivate your listeners to take action. It's Just a dollar ninety nine at Amazon. Grab your copy today and sell mo

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Michael Gier - The Heroism and Resiliency of 9-11: From Tragedy to Triumph.

Join Terry Shepherd for a deeply inspiring conversation with award-winning filmmaker Michael Gier about his latest documentary, The Heroism and Resiliency of 9/11: From Tragedy to Triumph. As America approaches the 25th anniversary of the attacks, Gier explains why his film shifts the focus away from the tragedy to shine a light on untold stories of extraordinary human courage and unity. In This Episode A New Perspective on 9/11: Why Gier and executive producer Chris Meek chose to highlight positive stories of resilience and humanity rather than the devastation. The Lieutenant Dan Connection: How acclaimed actor Gary Sinise became the film's narrator and how 9/11 inspired his lifelong dedication to first responders and veterans. Behind the Lens: Gier details his four-and-a-half-year production journey, distilling 35 hours of interview and archival footage into a powerful two-hour feature. Recreating History: A look at the highly accurate sets and reenactments, from a rented jet for Flight 93 to a 30-foot deep rubble set built for Will Jimeno's rescue. From Broadway to the Director's Chair: Gier discusses his career pivot from starring in Broadway musicals and running a real estate business to founding his own production company after the 2008 market crash. Healing Our Heroes: A look at Gier's previous films, Wounded Heroes and Healing the Heroes of 9/11, which explore life-changing alternative PTSD treatments. Mentioned in this Episode Stream the Film: Available now on Amazon Prime Video, Google TV, Apple TV, and YouTube Movies. Official Film Website: the911film.com Michael Gier’s Website: michaelgier.com If you were moved by today’s conversation, please share this episode with a friend and consider leaving us a rating and review on your favorite podcast app. We all inevitably become the brand. And that's why I wrote, "How to Become a Dynamic Podcast Guest and Sell Stuff." It's a sweet and short primer that teaches you about the gear, the appearance and the messaging that can grab and hold today's micro-attention spans and motivate your listeners to take action. It's Just a dollar ninety nine at Amazon. Grab your copy today and sell mo

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David Kibbe - David Kibbe's Power of Style

For more than four decades, David Kibbe has challenged the fashion world to see beauty not as a rigid set of rules or flaws to be corrected, but as a powerful expression of identity. In this episode, Terry Shepherd sits down with the creator of the celebrated Image Identity System to discuss his joyful new book, David Kibbe's Power of Style. David introduces listeners to his revolutionary program of "love-based beauty," built on the liberating idea that true beauty comes directly from individuality. He argues that personal style is simply how we physicalize our unique energy, and he pushes back against a multi-billion dollar industry that profits by selling imperfections and planned obsolescence. In This Episode, We Cover: Redefining Style: Why your appearance is an energy transference rather than a binary set of fashion rules. The Myth of Perfection: How to escape the trap of external ideals and move from self-acceptance to self-celebration. David’s Origin Story: Tracing his journey from a child piano prodigy in California, Missouri, to a globally recognized style innovator. The "Dream Board" Process: Why connecting with your soul's deepest, unlimited aspirations is the key to unlocking your physical style. Sharing the Sidewalk: How elevating your wardrobe—and dressing a little better than the room—acts as a superpower that spreads joy and community awareness. Through a blend of art, beauty, and metaphysics, David explains how to silence the internal critic and view yourself through kinder eyes. Resources Mentioned: Explore more of David's work and pick up the new book at davidkibbe.co. We all inevitably become the brand. And that's why I wrote, "How to Become a Dynamic Podcast Guest and Sell Stuff." It's a sweet and short primer that teaches you about the gear, the appearance and the messaging that can grab and hold today's micro-attention spans and motivate your listeners to take action. It's Just a dollar ninety nine at Amazon. Grab your copy today and sell mo

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Denise Perez - Alchemic Healings: The Art of Remembering

What if healing isn't about repairing what is broken, but remembering that we were never truly broken in the first place? In this episode of "In Conversation," host Terry Shepherd sits down with Denise Perez, the author of Alchemic Healings: The Art of Remembering and the founder of Alchemic Healings in Alachua County, Florida. Denise shares her deeply personal and mystical journey of stepping off the corporate "hamster wheel" as a six-figure commercial insurance producer to rediscover her authentic self. Catalyzed by the emotional heartbreak of her mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis and a chance encounter with an NLP practitioner, Denise shifted from being a 15-year atheist to exploring energetic modalities and past life regressions. She also openly discusses her profound experiences with plant medicines like ayahuasca and mushrooms. During a 2024 ayahuasca ceremony in the Peruvian Andes, Denise connected with her deceased mother, who encouraged her to write her book and simplify the concepts of spiritual alchemy for others. In this episode, you will learn: How healing is a process of reclamation, moving away from fear and toward freedom. Why plant medicines and psychedelics can act as "permission slips" to help our subconscious let down its guard. The importance of befriending your ego instead of seeking "ego death". How our everyday human existence, including our relationships and finances, acts as the perfect laboratory for spiritual alchemy. Why finding your own inner joy and learning to surrender can lead to profound life transformations. Through her writing and her practice, which includes Reiki, access bars, and Akashic records readings, Denise aims to empower people to become conscious participants in their own transformation. Connect with Denise Perez: To learn more about her book and her spiritual practices, visit her website at alchemichealings.com. We all inevitably become the brand. And that's why I wrote, "How to Become a Dynamic Podcast Guest and Sell Stuff." It's a sweet and short primer that teaches you about the gear, the appearance and the messaging that can grab and hold today's micro-attention spans and motivate your listeners to take action. It's Just a dollar ninety nine at Amazon. Grab your copy today and sell mo

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Judith Starkston - Achilles Wife

In this episode of "In Conversation," host Terry Shepherd sits down with historical fantasy author Judith Starkston to explore the captivating intersection of history, archaeology, and myth. Judith discusses her latest novel, Achilles' s Wife, and her passion for placing women at the center of ancient Bronze Age narratives. They also dive into a thoughtful review of Christopher Nolan's contemporary film adaptation of The Odyssey, unpacking its modern themes, character portrayals, and departures from Homer's original epic. Key Highlights Reimagining Achilles: Judith explains how Achilles' sWife explores a hidden chapter of the hero's life on the island of Scyros, giving voice to the often-overlooked princess Deidameia. Nolan's The Odyssey: A lively critique of Christopher Nolan's action-packed thriller adaptation, including thoughts on Anne Hathaway's performance, the removal of the original myth's sexual elements (like the Calypso storyline), and the film's focus on modern themes such as migration and the ancient concept of xenia (guest-host relationship). Women in Antiquity: A discussion on how ancient women often held more rights and ruling power than typically assumed, and how legendary writers like Homer subtly highlighted their intelligence despite the patriarchal norm. Translating Homer: Judith shares her favorite translations of The Iliad and The Odyssey, specifically praising the oral quality of Lombardo's work and the less repressive, more accurate language of Emily Wilson's modern translation. What's Next: A sneak peek into Judith's current work-in-progress—a humorous, contemporary novel following a modern classicist who experiences mythological visions featuring the goddess Athena. About the Guest Judith Starkston is a classicist and author who writes historical fantasy and mythic retellings set in the worlds of the Greeks and Hittites. Her storytelling is grounded in serious scholarship, holding classics degrees from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and Cornell. Prior to writing full-time, she taught high school students and shared her deep love for ancient history and mythology. Her published works include Hand of Fire, the four-book Tesha series, and her latest release, Achilles' Wife. Links & Resources Visit Judith's Website: judithstarkston.com Books Mentioned: Achilles' s Wife and Hand of Fire (available wherever cool books are sold) We all inevitably become the brand. And that's why I wrote, "How to Become a Dynamic Podcast Guest and Sell Stuff." It's a sweet and short primer that teaches you about the gear, the appearance and the messaging that can grab and hold today's micro-attention spans and motivate your listeners to take action. It's Just a dollar ninety nine at Amazon. Grab your copy today and sell mo

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Elliot Blake - Into the Great

Dive into the limitless universe of storytelling with executive producer, director, and author Elliot Blake. From directing A-list talent in Audible's hit Moriarty trilogy to crafting Emmy-winning animation, Elliot is now exploring the written word with his debut sci-fi novella, Into The Great. Join host Terry Shepherd as they discuss the transition from screen to page, the power of personal choice, and what happens when an alien invasion simply stares back at you. In This Episode, We Discuss 👽 A New Kind of Invasion: Discover how Into The Great uses silent, observing aliens as a profound metaphor for real-world instability and rapid societal change. ✍️ Script to Prose: Hear about Elliot's creative transition from the present-tense world of television and audio dramas to mastering the intimate, past-tense interiority of prose fiction. 🌌 Love in the Void: Explore how the novella balances a sprawling space backdrop with an intimate, character-driven romance about personal freedom and taking control of your destiny. 🎙️ Directing Legends: Get behind-the-scenes insights on collaborating with voiceover powerhouses like Sir Ben Kingsley and Dominic Monaghan on the Moriarty audio series. About the Guest Elliot Blake is an Emmy-winning storyteller whose dynamic career spans animation, comic books, and audio dramas. He serves as the executive producer and director of Audible’s acclaimed Moriarty trilogy and as an executive producer for Apple TV’s The Sisters Grimm. His new sci-fi novella, Into The Great, marks his highly anticipated return to prose fiction. About Terry Shepherd Terry Shepherd is an award-winning broadcaster, narrator, and author dedicated to exploring the creative process. Through "In Conversation," Terry brings listeners deep into the writer's craft, shining a spotlight on the artists and support systems that bring our favorite stories to life. Links & Resources 📖 Get your limited edition copy of Into The Great at Little Factory: lilfac.com/shop 🌐 Visit Elliot Blake's official website: elliottblake.com 🎙️ Listen to Moriarty: The Great Chaos on Audible 🎧 Terry Shepherd Official Website: TerryShepherd.com We all inevitably become the brand. And that's why I wrote, "How to Become a Dynamic Podcast Guest and Sell Stuff." It's a sweet and short primer that teaches you about the gear, the appearance and the messaging that can grab and hold today's micro-attention spans and motivate your listeners to take action. It's Just a dollar ninety nine at Amazon. Grab your copy today and sell mo

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Laura Jensen Walker - The Postmistress of Puddlington

"A single letter can carry a declaration of love, the promise of a new beginning, or news that changes a family forever." Join host Terry Shepherd for an inspiring episode of "In Conversation" featuring Agatha and Lefty Award-nominated author Laura Jensen Walker. In this episode, Laura discusses her heart-warming historical novel, The Postmistress of Puddlington, set in a quiet Dorset village during the tumultuous years of World War II. Laura shares the deeply personal journey of writing the novel, explaining how the story served as a safe haven from pandemic-induced PTSD, and how her early days as a young Air Force clerk typist stationed in England planted the seeds for the book nearly 50 years ago. Episode Highlights The Power of Letters: The emotional weight wartime postal workers carried when delivering devastating telegrams from the war department to their own neighbors. Unforgettable Characters: An exploration of the novel's fierce women, from Hester Smith, a timid spinster who comes into her own, to Lady Minerva Winterbottom, a bohemian former suffragette. Suffrajitsu: A fascinating look into the real history of suffragettes learning jujitsu to defend themselves, and how this martial art makes its way into the novel. The "Genre Butterfly": How Laura successfully transitions between nonfiction humor, cozy mysteries, and historical fiction by remaining strictly character-driven. Neurodivergence & New Beginnings: Laura opens up about discovering she is neurodivergent later in life, and how this freeing revelation inspired her forthcoming novel, The Pilgrimage of Primrose Honeychurch. Books Mentioned in This Episode The Postmistress of Puddlington: A gentle, atmospheric read perfect for fans of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. The Pilgrimage of Primrose Honeychurch: Follow a 70-year-old woman with a love for words and sensory challenges on a transformative journey to Hay-on-Wye, the Welsh town of books. This title is available for pre-order now wherever cool books are sold. Learn more about Laura and her work by visiting her website at laurajensenwalker.com. We all inevitably become the brand. And that's why I wrote, "How to Become a Dynamic Podcast Guest and Sell Stuff." It's a sweet and short primer that teaches you about the gear, the appearance and the messaging that can grab and hold today's micro-attention spans and motivate your listeners to take action. It's Just a dollar ninety nine at Amazon. Grab your copy today and sell mo

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Elizabeth Crowens - Round Up the Unusual Suspects

In this episode, host Terry Shepherd welcomes award-winning author Elizabeth Crowens to discuss her latest novel, Round Up the Unusual Suspects. This exciting release is the third book in her classic Hollywood mystery series. The story transports readers back to 1942, where a stagehand is murdered on a Warner Brothers soundstage during the filming of the iconic movie Casablanca. Studio chief Jack L. Warner enlists the help of private investigators Babs Norman and Guy Brandt to solve the case and keep the cameras rolling. What to Expect in This Episode Elizabeth dives deep into the fascinating blend of fiction and real-life history that shapes her books. Here are some of the highlights from their conversation: The Origins of the Detectives: Crowens explains the backstory of her fictional private investigators, Babs Norman and Guy Brandt. A Unique Meet-Cute: The sleuthing duo originally met as out-of-work actors. They bonded while eating stolen, discarded food during a picnic in a Hollywood cemetery. Wartime Hollywood History: The interview explores the very real underground Nazi movements that threatened studio heads in Los Angeles. Real-Life Heroes: Listeners will learn about Leon Lewis. He was a real-life attorney who built an underground spy network to fight fascist organizations. Movie Magic Secrets: Listeners will discover how wartime rationing led to recycled movie sets. Crowens also explains why the famous foggy airplane scene used a cheap balsa wood plane, little people as mechanics, and forced perspective. The Writing Process: Elizabeth shares her unique "plotzing" method. She reveals how she chose the novel's killer by tossing character index cards into the air. Relevant Social Themes: The episode touches on how the book addresses the 1942 Japanese internment mandate. Crowens notes the parallels between this historical event and modern social issues regarding immigration. About the Guest Elizabeth Crowens boasts a career spanning over twenty-five years in the New York and Los Angeles entertainment industries. In addition to her Hollywood mysteries, she is also highly regarded for her Time Travel Professor sci-fi series. To learn more about Elizabeth and her books, visit her website at elizabethcrowens.com. We all inevitably become the brand. And that's why I wrote, "How to Become a Dynamic Podcast Guest and Sell Stuff." It's a sweet and short primer that teaches you about the gear, the appearance and the messaging that can grab and hold today's micro-attention spans and motivate your listeners to take action. It's Just a dollar ninety nine at Amazon. Grab your copy today and sell mo

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Nathan Jorgenson - Otto's Portal

If the soul leaves the body when we die, what holds it here while we live? Host and fellow fiction author Terry Shepherd sits down with award-winning novelist Nathan Jorgenson to explore this profound question, which sits at the very center of his new book, Otto's Portal. In this episode of In-Conversation, Jorgenson shares his fascinating and unexpected journey from a career in dentistry to becoming an acclaimed storyteller. He reveals how his writing began as a deeply personal way to find closure while reading to his dying father, eventually leading to a self-published debut that won a National Book Award and a Ben Franklin Award for Best New Voice in Fiction. From the mysteries at the edge of science to the rural landscapes of the Midwest, this interview delves into the mechanics of writing a sweeping tale that blends fact, faith, myth, and conjecture. In This Episode, We Discuss: The premise of Otto's Portal and its protagonist, a 91-year-old theoretical physicist who is confronting his own mortality. How the novel's timeline sweeps across history, moving seamlessly from 1946 post-war London to Lyndon Johnson's ranch in 1964 and a quiet Catholic church in northern Minnesota. The fascinating integration of string physics, Albert Einstein, and Isaac Newton into a fictional narrative. True historical oddities from World War II, including mysterious yellow orbs and German "wonder weapons," that inspired the plot. The deep influence of the rural Northwoods landscape on Jorgenson's life and the atmosphere of his fiction. The universal human search for redemption and why every character must be flawed to embark on the hero's journey. The practical realities of the writing process, including the invaluable editorial feedback Jorgenson receives from his wife and first reader, Terry. Guest Links & Resources Discover more about Nathan's literary work and grab your copy of Otto's Portal at his official website: nathanjorgenson.com. We all inevitably become the brand. And that's why I wrote, "How to Become a Dynamic Podcast Guest and Sell Stuff." It's a sweet and short primer that teaches you about the gear, the appearance and the messaging that can grab and hold today's micro-attention spans and motivate your listeners to take action. It's Just a dollar ninety nine at Amazon. Grab your copy today and sell mo

R. John Dingle - Before the Devil Knows

Join host Terry Shepherd for a thrilling conversation with author R. John Dingle as they delve into the dark, isolated world of his newest mystery, Before the Devil Knows. This third installment in the critically acclaimed Gus Wheeler FBI thriller series takes readers deep into the off-the-grid communities of northern Maine, where dark secrets and archaic religious practices collide. When the disfigured bodies of missing teenagers begin appearing in unmarked graves—each bearing the disturbing signature of a lead cross laid across the chest—FBI agent Gus Wheeler must connect the ancient scriptural breadcrumbs to catch a killer. Episode Highlights The Unlikely Protagonist: Discover how Dingle modeled his protagonist, Gus Wheeler, after his own son, Sam. Wheeler is a severely dyslexic, professional jazz musician whose unique way of connecting disparate dots makes him a naturally brilliant FBI profiler. Setting the Scene: Learn why the isolated, foggy, and rugged landscape of Aroostook County, Maine, serves as the perfect, eerie backdrop for a secretive church governed by rigid Old Testament views. The Writing Process: Dingle reveals his intensive outlining strategy and explains why he almost always knows the ending of his books before he starts writing. He also shares why he actually changed the ending of Before the Devil Knows at the eleventh hour based on a suggestion from his son. The Publishing Slog: Aspiring authors will find inspiration in Dingle’s grueling path to publication, which included sending out 283 queries over a year and a half to land his agent, Kathy Greene. After another year and a half of searching, he finally secured a three-book deal that has since expanded to a six-book series. Advice for Writers: Dingle shares his ultimate, hard-earned advice for aspiring authors: "Sit your butt in the chair and write." Discover more about R. John Dingle and his work: To learn more about the Gus Wheeler series and pick up your copy of Before the Devil Knows, visit the author's official website at rjohndingle.com. We all inevitably become the brand. And that's why I wrote, "How to Become a Dynamic Podcast Guest and Sell Stuff." It's a sweet and short primer that teaches you about the gear, the appearance and the messaging that can grab and hold today's micro-attention spans and motivate your listeners to take action. It's Just a dollar ninety nine at Amazon. Grab your copy today and sell mo

Steven L. Conley - False Flag

What happens when an FBI insider turns his real-world counterintelligence experience into gripping espionage fiction? In this episode of In Conversation, Terry Shepherd sits down with former attorney and investigator Steven L. Conley to explore his thrilling new novel, False Flag. Inspired by the actual twenty-year hunt for a Chinese mole inside the Bureau, this discussion pulls back the curtain on the grueling psychological and bureaucratic realities of national security work. In This Episode, We Discuss: 🕵️‍♂️ The Anatomy of a Mole Hunt: How a real-world double-agent operation inspired a fictional narrative about institutional trust fossilizing into catastrophic betrayal. ⚖️ The Labyrinth of Process: The frustrating gap between what an investigator knows and what the law permits them to prove, including the legal hurdles of FISA warrants and the threat of "graymail". 👀 The Cost of High Alertness: How counterintelligence training fundamentally alters an agent's perception, transforming everyday encounters into potential threats and making ordinary life feel staged. ✍️ The Operative as Storyteller: The cathartic process of deconstructing plot and motive to write a book that examines the heavy toll of keeping secrets from spouses, children, and friends. About the Guest Steven L. Conley entered the FBI by way of law school, international law, and a formative internship handling ship registries in Malta. Having lived inside the deep bureaucracy of secrecy, he brings unmatched institutional memory to his writing. False Flag is his gripping debut in espionage fiction, balancing the mechanics of classic spy thrillers with profound psychological depth. About Terry Shepherd Terry Shepherd is an author and the host of the In Conversation podcast series. Through deep-dive interviews with leading creators, Terry explores the shared commonalities of craft, motive, and storytelling that connect authors with their readers. Links & Resources Buy the Book: [Insert Purchase Link for False Flag] Author Website: [Insert Steven L. Conley's Website Link] Connect with the Host: [Insert Terry Shepherd's Official Website Link] Listen & Subscribe: [Insert Podcast Platform/Buzzsprout Links] We all inevitably become the brand. And that's why I wrote, "How to Become a Dynamic Podcast Guest and Sell Stuff." It's a sweet and short primer that teaches you about the gear, the appearance and the messaging that can grab and hold today's micro-attention spans and motivate your listeners to take action. It's Just a dollar ninety nine at Amazon. Grab your copy today and sell mo

Margaret Mizushima - Dying Cry

Join host Terry Shepherd for an engaging conversation with award-winning mystery author Margaret Mizushima. In this episode, they dive deep into Dying Cry, the thrilling 10th installment of the internationally published Timber Creek Canine Mysteries. Margaret shares her creative process, the real-world research behind her authentic K-9 characters, and what is next for Deputy Maddie Walker and her canine partner, Robo. What You'll Hear in This Episode The World of Dying Cry: Discover how a snowy family snowshoe outing for newlyweds Maddie and Cole Walker turns deadly. A scream cuts through the canyon, leading Maddie and Robo to witness a shadowy figure vanish beneath a deadly rockslide. Real-World Inspiration: Margaret explains how her retired veterinarian husband helps her brainstorm plotlines. Together, they developed a storyline centered around a veterinary drug known as "tranq," which is abused by addicts and drug experimenters. Building Robo: Learn how Margaret's lifelong observation of dogs and her shadowing of a retired K-9 handler helped bring her beloved German shepherd character to life. Robo was purchased by the Timber Creek community to detect drugs and serve as a well-socialized partner in local schools. Hands-On Research: Hear about Margaret's fascinating trip to a Las Vegas police dog trial to observe K-9 behaviors, such as how officers command their dogs to release a bite sleeve. Future Projects: Get a sneak peek into her upcoming fall release, Fighting Edge, which tackles the serious issue of teenage labor trafficking. Margaret also shares that she is currently writing book 12, which focuses on vulnerable elderly people. About the Guest Margaret Mizushima is a retired speech therapist who grew up on a Colorado cattle ranch. She spent 15 years working toward publication, writing five manuscripts before her debut novel, Killing Trail, was finally picked up by Crooked Lane Books. Today, her work has earned honors from the Colorado Authors League, the Independent Book Publishers Association, and Women Writing the West. Fans love her series because of the lovable K-9 Robo, the fairly clean language, and her depiction of a supportive, competent police department. Books Discussed Book Title | Release Info | Plot HighlightsDying Cry | Book 10, released October 2025 | A deadly rockslide, greed, and the abuse of a veterinary drug called "tranq" Fighting Edge | Upcoming fall release | Focuses on the domestic and international labor trafficking of vulnerable teenagers Killing Trail | Book 1, released 2015 | The debut novel that launched the Timber Creek series Connect with Margaret: Visit her official website at margaretmizushima.com to explore her work. We all inevitably become the brand. And that's why I wrote, "How to Become a Dynamic Podcast Guest and Sell Stuff." It's a sweet and short primer that teaches you about the gear, the appearance and the messaging that can grab and hold today's micro-attention spans and motivate your listeners to take action. It's Just a dollar ninety nine at Amazon. Grab your copy today and sell mo

Dara Levan - Shaken to the Core

When the stable foundation of your life suddenly shifts, what do you do with the time you have left? Join host Terry Shepherd on In Conversation as he sits down with Dara Levan, the award-winning author, podcaster, and speech-language pathologist, to discuss her beautifully poignant new novel, Shaken to the Core. Together, they dive into a deeply moving story about grief, transformation, and the profound ways love and "framily" can reshape our worldview when we least expect it. In This Episode, We Discuss: 📸 Finding a Voice Behind the Lens: How the protagonist, Joy, uses photography as a protective comfort zone until life’s sudden detours force her to step out from behind the camera and reclaim her voice. 📖 The Legacy of a Camp Diary: The evocative role of a 1980s sleepaway camp journal as a portal to understanding a mother's youth, sparking an unexpected professional metamorphosis. 🌈 Choosing Joy Through Grief: Dara shares her personal experiences with otherworldly "visits," symbols like rainbows and ladybugs, and the conscious decision to choose hope in the wake of profound loss. 🎙️ The Art of Listening: How hosting her own podcast, Every Soul Has a Story, and her background in speech pathology have deepened her empathy and expanded her worldview. About the Guest Dara Levan is an author, speaker, speech-language pathologist, and the founder of Every Soul Has a Story, a global platform dedicated to sharing the experiences that shape us. She is the author of It Could Be Worse, a contributor to the USA Today best-selling anthology On Being Jewish Now, and her latest novel, Shaken to the Core, has been recognized as a Zibby’s Summer Read and recommended in People Magazine. About Terry Shepherd Terry Shepherd is the author of the Jessica Ramirez thriller series and the host of In Conversation, where he welcomes world-class authors, creatives, and cultural figures for deep, insightful discussions about their craft and life journeys. Links & Resources Visit the Author’s Website: DaraLevan.com Buy the Book: [Shaken to the Core on Amazon/Bookshop] Listen to Dara's Podcast: [Every Soul Has a Story] Connect with the Host: [TerryShepherd.com] We all inevitably become the brand. And that's why I wrote, "How to Become a Dynamic Podcast Guest and Sell Stuff." It's a sweet and short primer that teaches you about the gear, the appearance and the messaging that can grab and hold today's micro-attention spans and motivate your listeners to take action. It's Just a dollar ninety nine at Amazon. Grab your copy today and sell mo

Steven Rubin - The Unraveling of Michael Galler

What happens when healthy self-discipline morphs into a consuming, unseen obsession? Today, host Terry Shepherd sits down with author Steven M. Rubin to explore his gripping new novel, The Unraveling of Michael Galler, a slow-build psychological family drama that walks the fragile line between protection and psychological unraveling. Together, they dive into how personal trauma can redefine our deepest fears, and how the grueling 26.2-mile journey of a marathon serves as the ultimate crucible for the human spirit. In This Episode, We Discuss: 🧠 The Mechanics of Obsession: How childhood loss can cause a young mind to completely redefine the concept of illness and malevolent forces. 🏃‍♂️ The Marathon as a Crucible: Steven shares his harrowing real-life experience of surviving a heart attack during the Marine Corps Marathon—and why he chose to retrain and finish it five years later. 🎭 Twist vs. Reveal: A look behind the curtain at the craft of writing a psychological drama, and why the book’s shocking ending is a natural resolution rather than a traditional thriller twist. ✍️ The Writer’s Marathon: Creative advice for aspiring authors on finding your voice, entering short fiction contests, and committing to the long-haul journey of writing a book. About the Guest Steven M. Rubin is a former collegiate football player, marathon runner, and corporate employee benefits strategist who brings a uniquely analytical and deeply personal perspective to his fiction. Raised outside of Boston, his own experiences with family loss and endurance running heavily inspired the framework of his celebrated debut novel, which earned him a "Best in Show" award for short fiction at the Marblehead Festival of Arts. About Terry Shepherd Terry Shepherd is the host of the In Conversation podcast series, where he interviews leading and emerging authors, diving deep into the craft of writing, character development, and the human stories behind the pages. Links & Resources Visit the Author’s Website: Steven M. Rubin Official Website Get the Book: Buy The Unraveling of Michael Galler on Amazon (Placeholder) Connect with the Host: Terry Shepherd Official Website (Placeholder) Follow the Podcast: In Conversation on Buzzsprout (Placeholder) We all inevitably become the brand. And that's why I wrote, "How to Become a Dynamic Podcast Guest and Sell Stuff." It's a sweet and short primer that teaches you about the gear, the appearance and the messaging that can grab and hold today's micro-attention spans and motivate your listeners to take action. It's Just a dollar ninety nine at Amazon. Grab your copy today and sell mo

John Winn Miller - Miriam in the Shadows

Can you preserve your humanity while fighting inhuman evil? In this episode of In Conversation, host Terry Shepherd sits down with award-winning investigative reporter and Pulitzer finalist John Winn Miller to discuss his gripping new World War II thriller, Miriam in the Shadows. Together, they explore the high-stakes world of espionage, the moral dilemmas of the Allied resistance, and how a seasoned journalist's eye for detail shapes historical suspense. In This Episode, We Discuss: 🕵️‍♂️ The Weight of Espionage: How real-life historical figures like Ian Fleming and the controversial MI6 agent Claude Dansey inspired a web of tactical deception and betrayal. ⚖️ The Ultimate Moral Dilemma: The internal struggle of a Jewish Special Operations Executive (SOE) agent forced to choose between completing a vital war mission and saving the man she loves. 📝 From Fact-Chasing to Fiction: How forty years in journalism and a background in screenwriting taught Miller to write with all five senses, letting historical fiction uncover truths that nonfiction cannot reach. 🐀 What’s Next in the Saga: A sneak peek into volume four of the series, The Wilderness of Rats, which dives into the dark post-war history of Nazi escape "ratlines". About the Guest John Winn Miller is a true Renaissance man whose career spans decades as an investigative reporter, foreign correspondent, editor, filmmaker, and screenwriter. After retired journalism stints and a venture into screenwriting, he turned his decades of storytelling expertise to historical fiction during the COVID-19 pandemic. Miriam in the Shadows is the third installment in his acclaimed Peggy Seeg saga. About Terry Shepherd Terry Shepherd is the host of In Conversation, a podcast dedicated to deep-dive dialogues with prolific authors, creatives, and standard-bearers of exceptional storytelling. Links & Resources Visit the Author’s Website: johnwinnmiller.com Buy the Book: Available on Amazon and all major e-edition platforms (Hardcover releasing June 2nd). Connect with Host Terry Shepherd: TerryShepherd.com We all inevitably become the brand. And that's why I wrote, "How to Become a Dynamic Podcast Guest and Sell Stuff." It's a sweet and short primer that teaches you about the gear, the appearance and the messaging that can grab and hold today's micro-attention spans and motivate your listeners to take action. It's Just a dollar ninety nine at Amazon. Grab your copy today and sell mo

Lena Fein - Shattering the Mirror

For decades, UC Berkeley-trained engineer and high-tech executive Lena Fein lived as a master of survival disguised as success, using academic achievement and corporate ambition as armor to mask the deep trauma of a violent, controlling childhood. But at age fifty-one, standing at the deathbed of her abusive mother, a profound moment of connection sparked an unexpected journey toward reckoning, release, and midlife reclamation. In this episode, Terry Shepherd sits down with Lena to discuss her deeply moving and redemptive new memoir, Shattering the Mirror, exploring how healing doesn't follow anyone else's timetable—and why it is never too late to reclaim your true voice. In This Episode, We Discuss: 🪞 The Metaphor of the Distorted Mirror: How a childhood amusement park memory and a harrowing, glass-shattering window accident became symbols for living with a distorted self-image and a fear of "falling" into love. 🚪 Ambition as Armor: How academic perfection and a corporate career in high-tech served as a refuge and a survival mechanism to bypass emotional pain. 🌾 Generational Trauma & Cruelty: Understanding the hidden history of her parents' generation—marred by the Depression and the Holocaust—and how Lena and her sisters eventually compared notes in midlife to discover they were not alone in their abuse. 💃 Reclaiming the Heart in Midlife: Lena’s evolution after quitting her high-tech job, from working as a hospice caregiver to embracing freeform dance, singing, and finding genuine presence with her grandchildren. About the Guest Lena Fein is a UC Berkeley-trained engineer, former high-tech executive, and past hospice worker. After decades of navigating life out of her head, the passing of her mother catalyzed a profound emotional awakening, leading her to trade corporate metrics for creative and somatic healing. She is the author of the redemptive new memoir, Shattering the Mirror. About Terry Shepherd Terry Shepherd is the host of In Conversation, a podcast dedicated to deep, insightful dialogues with authors, creators, and thinkers who share powerful personal narratives and life-changing truths. Links & Resources Visit Lena Fein’s Official Website: shatteringthemirror.com Buy the Book: Shattering the Mirror Connect with Host Terry Shepherd: [Terry Shepherd's Official Website] Listen to More Episodes: [In Conversation Podcast Archive] We all inevitably become the brand. And that's why I wrote, "How to Become a Dynamic Podcast Guest and Sell Stuff." It's a sweet and short primer that teaches you about the gear, the appearance and the messaging that can grab and hold today's micro-attention spans and motivate your listeners to take action. It's Just a dollar ninety nine at Amazon. Grab your copy today and sell mo