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In this episode of Imposter Hour, Liz and Greg dive into a thrilling conversation with New York Times bestselling author Ana Reyes about her debut novel, The House in the Pines. Ana opens up about the challenges of navigating genre conventions, revealing how her MFA program shaped her writing style and the creative freedom she found within storytelling constraints. She shares the deeply personal elements woven into her novel, including her Guatemalan heritage and her harrowing journey with Klonopin withdrawal.
The discussion delves into the art of crafting a twist ending, the power of sense memory, and how mental reconstruction plays a crucial role in her storytelling. Ana reflects on her experiences as a writer, from finding community and navigating vulnerability to the impact her book has had on readers. They explore themes of not being believed, mental illness, and the lingering effects of trauma. Ana also shares insights from her time teaching creative writing, offers advice for writers tackling their second novel, and gives a glimpse into her future writing goals. This episode is a must-listen for anyone intrigued by the intersection of personal experience and genre storytelling!
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In this episode of Imposter Hour, Liz and Greg chat with author Tessa Wegert about her experiences with imposter syndrome and the pressures of being a writer, especially during the pandemic. Tessa, the author of the Shana Merchant series (Death in the Family, The Dead Season, Dead Wind, and The Kind to Kill), reveals how she navigated the daunting expectations to publish more books and the vital role community and connection play in her storytelling. They dive into the atmospheric settings in Tessa's novels and how she channels imposter syndrome through her main character, Shana Merchant, creating a deeply relatable and complex protagonist.
The conversation explores the intriguing blend of subgenres Tessa weaves into her series, the response from her local community, and her journey from gaining confidence to transitioning between genres. As a former journalist, Tessa shares how her investigative skills bring authenticity to her police procedurals, and she emphasizes the importance of mastering craft and structure in writing mysteries and thrillers. With insights into her second series and the joys of collaborative writing, this episode offers a captivating look into the mind of a writer who’s unafraid to face her insecurities and emerge stronger.
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In this episode of Imposter Hour, Liz and Greg sit down with Brooklyn-based writer Nadia Owusu to explore the raw and riveting journey behind her memoir, *Aftershocks*. Nadia opens up about the themes of identity, belonging, and imposter syndrome that weave through her story, shedding light on the challenges of capturing multiple perspectives and truths in memoir writing. The conversation delves into the powerful impact of code-switching, the complexities of straddling multiple cultural identities, and the often-overlooked nuances of mental health experiences.
Nadia reflects on how her father’s Ashanti storytelling tradition shaped her as a writer and reveals how music plays an integral role in her creative process. She shares her journey from writing a novel to realizing that the memoir was the story she was meant to tell, and how the metaphor of earthquakes echoes through her narrative, capturing the seismic shifts in her life. Offering a candid glimpse into the aftermath of sharing her story, Nadia provides invaluable advice for aspiring memoir writers and discusses the importance of representation in mental illness narratives. This episode promises an unfiltered exploration of identity, resilience, and the courage to own one's truth.
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In this episode, hosts Liz and Greg are joined by Lauren Ling Brown, debut author of the instant USA Today bestseller and Reese’s Book Club pick, Society of Lies. Lauren opens up about her journey through imposter syndrome and how it has shaped her writing process. The conversation dives into the deep themes of her debut novel, including sisterhood, belonging, and societal expectations, while offering a candid look at the personal struggles behind the work.
Lauren shares insights on transitioning from screenwriting to novel writing, the influence of music on her creative process, and the power of writing women’s stories. She also reflects on overcoming creative blocks, the role of dialogue in literature, and the importance of having a supportive creative partner. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to explore the craft behind a modern bestseller and the emotional depth that drives unforgettable stories.
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In this episode of Imposter Hour, Liz and Greg sit down with digital creator and book influencer Sonica Mazursky, the force behind The Reading Beauty. They dig into the impact of imposter syndrome on Sonica's journey as a book reviewer and influencer, unraveling how it shapes her reading experience and online persona. The conversation dives into her love affair with thrillers, the adrenaline rush of plot twists, and how reading psychological suspense has influenced her real-life mindset.
Sonica opens up about her evolution as an interviewer, her approach to picking the perfect book to review, and how moderating a panel changed her perspective on engaging with authors. They also shine a light on underrated Canadian writers, including hidden gems like Hannah Mary McKinnon, Samantha Bailey, and medical thriller writer Daniel Callow. Sonica shares her excitement for upcoming releases and talks about building a supportive online community for readers and authors. If you're ready for a deep dive into the world of book influencing and the thrill of unexpected plot twists, this episode is a must-listen!
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In this episode, Liz and Greg dive deep with debut thriller author K.T. Nguyen about her gripping novel You Know What You Did. They unravel themes of imposter syndrome, cultural identity, and the complexities of mother-daughter relationships as they explore protagonist Annie's struggle with her dual identity as a first-generation Vietnamese American in small-town America. K.T. Nguyen opens up about how her own immigrant experiences shaped her writing and shares her journey from journalism to fiction, discussing the pressure to be perfect, the importance of humor, and the unexpected comfort found in hidden talents.
The conversation gets real about mental health, as they tackle how OCD and hoarding are woven into the narrative to reveal a character’s life story. They also touch on trauma, the art of balancing showing versus telling in storytelling, and the allure of psychological thrillers. With sharp insights into the power of social commentary in literature, this episode offers a rich, thought-provoking look into the craft and courage behind K.T. Nguyen's storytelling journey. Don’t miss it!
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In this episode of Imposter Hour, Vanessa Lillie, author of Blood Sisters, dives deep into the complexities of writing diverse characters and battling imposter syndrome. She unpacks the challenges of crafting a character like Sid—a white-passing Cherokee two-spirit working for the Bureau of Indian Affairs—and the delicate balance between storytelling and educating readers. Vanessa sheds light on the significance of authentic representation, the importance of uplifting Indigenous voices, and her journey of infusing vital themes into her narrative without sacrificing readability.
Vanessa also opens up about her own experience as a writer, from navigating shifts in agents and editors to overcoming self-doubt, and shares how trusting oneself is key to finding joy in the writing process. We delve into the themes of colonialism, disconnection, and the path to healing that flow through her work, offering a profound exploration of returning to Indigenous beliefs. With a wealth of insight on marketing, connecting with readers through social media, and maintaining authenticity, this episode is a must-listen for creatives seeking inspiration and guidance.
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In this episode, Liz and Greg chat with author John Fram about the duality of the polished "author self" vs. the vulnerable "writer self." They dive into the challenges of book tours, writing with authenticity, and navigating imposter syndrome. John shares his approach to blending supernatural elements with rich character development, including queer representation and the tension between religious faith and hypocrisy.
John explores the struggles of being labeled a horror novelist, the craft of writing locked-door mysteries, and how empathy and history shape compelling narratives. John’s insights on finding one's voice, balancing plot and character, and embracing the creative process offer listeners a fresh perspective on storytelling. Plus, he teases upcoming projects!
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In this episode of Imposter Hour with Liz and Greg, we sit down with the dynamic duo Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke, best friends, and co-authors who have been navigating the ups and downs of the publishing world together for over 30 years. They’ve written eight novels, including the bestseller The Good Widow, and recently released Forever Hold Your Peace. Liz and Lisa also host their own podcast, We Fight So You Don’t Have To: Lessons from a 30-Year Friendship.
Join us as Liz and Lisa share the story of how their creative partnership began in high school and evolved over the years, including their journey from writing a one-act play in college to becoming successful authors. They dive into the challenges and joys of co-writing, the importance of having a creative counterpart, and how they’ve navigated the complexities of the publishing industry.
We discuss the impact of social media on writers’ mental health, the ever-present imposter syndrome, and how they’ve learned to balance the demands of their writing careers with their personal lives. Liz and Lisa offer candid advice for both new and seasoned authors, emphasizing the importance of stepping back when needed and focusing on the joy of writing.
The conversation is filled with humor, insight, and the warmth that comes from decades of friendship and collaboration. Whether you’re a writer, a reader, or just someone who loves a good story, this episode is sure to resonate.
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In this episode, Liz and Greg chat with Gare Billings, a bookstagrammer, content creator, and avid reader, about imposter syndrome and his journey into reviewing books. We delve into Gare's unique virtual casting for books, his love for thrillers and horror, and his recent exploration of romance novels. Gare talks about the importance of representation in literature and the supportive nature of the online community. Gare shares his favorite imposter characters and his preferences for realistic and bleak endings in thrillers. Don't miss this engaging episode filled with insights into the world of Bookstagram, the allure of imposter characters, and the power of diverse representation in literature.
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In this captivating episode, we are joined by the brilliant Wanda M. Morris, acclaimed author of All Her Little Secrets, Anywhere You Run, and What You Leave Behind. Wanda shares her journey from a corporate lawyer to an award-winning thriller writer, revealing the challenges and triumphs she faced along the way.
We dive into the themes that resonate deeply in Wanda’s work, including imposter syndrome, racial and social inequalities, and the complexities of grief. Wanda opens up about her experience with imposter syndrome, both personally and as it relates to her characters. She also discusses the importance of authenticity in writing and how she channels her personal experiences and observations into her compelling narratives.
Wanda offers a behind-the-scenes look at how she crafts her settings as vivid characters, particularly her deep connection to the South and its influence on her storytelling. From the lush landscapes of low country Georgia to the historical backdrop of Mississippi, Wanda paints a rich and immersive picture that transports readers into her world.
This episode also touches on Wanda’s experience writing about generational trauma, family secrets, and the intricate dance between justice and morality. Plus, we explore the lighter side of her writing, including her attempts at weaving humor and romance into her thrillers.
Don’t miss this insightful and inspiring conversation.
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In this episode, Halley Sutton, acclaimed author of The Lady Upstairs and The Hurricane Blonde, shares her journey with imposter syndrome and the themes in her novels. She discusses the challenges of embracing the writer's identity and how imposter syndrome appears in her characters. Explore Hollywood's dark side, tabloid culture, and the power of narrative in shaping perceptions. Halley examines the complexities of separating art from the artist and the industry's enabling of abusive behavior. Halley also talks about her transition from publishing to full-time writing, the value of an MFA, and the importance of reading widely across genres. Don't miss this insightful conversation with one of today's most thought-provoking authors!
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In this captivating episode, we sit down with Susan Ouellette, a former CIA intelligence analyst and the author of the Wayward Spy trilogy. Susan opens up about her fascinating career in intelligence, her struggle with imposter syndrome, and her love for mystery and thriller novels. She delves into her deep-rooted fascination with the Soviet Union and shares how she transitioned from a high-stakes career in intelligence to the world of fiction writing. Susan reveals her meticulous process for crafting complex characters and the unique challenges of writing fiction when reality often outstrips the imagination. Susan also debunks common spy culture tropes in media, offering a more authentic look at the world of espionage. Tune in for an episode brimming with intrigue, real-world insights, and the art of storytelling from a true intelligence expert turned novelist.
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In this episode, we dive deep with Lee Matthew Goldberg, author of 14 novels, as he reveals his unique writing process and inspiration from Central Park. Discover his serene writing spot and how nature fuels his creativity. Lee discusses navigating imposter syndrome, especially as one of two authors with the same name. We unpack how the backdrop of the 1980s post-stock market crash inspired his latest book, which blends whimsical elements with themes of family and capitalism. This episode is a must-listen for insights into the creative process, the challenges of writing, and the power of storytelling.
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This week, Liz Scheier, author of the memoir 'Never Simple,' discusses her experience writing about her mother's lies and the impact they had on her. She also talks about the process of writing a novel that didn't get published and how it has influenced her creative journey. Liz reflects on the importance of storytelling and making connections through writing. She shares her insights on imposter syndrome and the challenges of creating fiction. The conversation ranges from motherhood and personal relationships to the impact of childhood experiences. "When you are fooled so completely by the person who is closest to you, what you learn is that your own judgment can't be trusted."
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In this episode, "Head Trash," Liz and Greg sit down with writer Kate Hergott, the creative force behind the Bookwild Collective, producer of Imposter Hour. They dive into the impact of imposter syndrome on artists and writers, exploring how self-doubt shapes the creative process. Kate shares her journey into book podcasting, her passion for thrillers, and the importance of finding a writing routine that works. She opens up about crafting snarky, humorous content while also delving into more emotional and vulnerable themes. Kate discusses her battles with imposter syndrome and the challenges of completing a story. The conversation also explores the allure of the thriller genre and morally gray characters. Tune in for an inspiring discussion filled with valuable insights, book recommendations, and candid experiences from a creative navigating self-doubt.
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This week, we dive deep into the tangled web of self-doubt with none other than Patricia Park, the brilliant author behind Re Jane (a Korean American retelling of Brontë’s Jane Eyre) and the YA novels Imposter Syndrome & Other Confessions of Alejandra Kim (an NPR Best Book of 2023 and a Gotham Book Prize finalist) and What’s Eating Jackie Oh?. Patricia, "having literally written the book on imposter syndrome”, shares her journey in capturing the teenage voice in YA fiction and how texting isn't just for teens—it can be a powerful storytelling tool. Patricia talks about the importance of focusing on the craft and writing for oneself, genre-jumping, and setting high stakes in the creative process, giving us our new favorite phrase, “emotional t-bones”.
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In this episode, Liz and Greg sit down with bestselling author Fiona Davis.
Fiona shares insights into her writing process, balancing historical accuracy with storytelling, and the research involved in bringing historic New York City to life. They also explore themes of ambition, creativity, and overcoming imposter syndrome in acting, journalism, and being a New York Times bestseller vs. being subway famous. And don’t miss their in-depth look at literary polyamory and writing throuples, #litthrup. Tune in for an engaging conversation with one of today’s most captivating historical fiction authors.
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In this episode, Liz and Greg welcome Scott Leeds, author of "Schrader's Chord" and composer of the show's theme music. Scott shares his journey as a writer and musician, discussing his writing process and insights on battling imposter syndrome. They dive into how creativity and observation shape artistic endeavors and explore artists' unique challenges. Scott's passion for storytelling, music, and his thoughts on navigating self-doubt, plumbers vs. writers, lit bros, Monster Squad, and Nicholas Cage are also unpacked. All this and more make for an engaging and inspiring conversation—oh, also, McFlurrys vs. McRibs.
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Welcome to the debut episode of "Imposter Hour with Liz and Greg"! This week, we're turning the spotlight on ourselves. Join us as we chat about how the nagging doubt of imposter syndrome sneaks into our own lives and creative processes and sets the stage for future episodes where we'll interview those brave souls who dare to create despite it all. Expect laughs, deep thoughts, and probably a few overshares as we navigate the wonderful, weird world of creativity and self-doubt. Tune in and laugh at (or with) us as we figure out how to host a podcast, and maybe discover we're not the only imposters in the room.
