Join Ami and best-selling author Ruta Sepetys as they discuss moving across media, the Paris of the Midwest, and her new book, Fortune of Sand. Sepetys is an international best-selling author who has received the of the Carnegie Medal, and has been honored by the American Academy of Arts and Letters. She has spoken in front of European Parliament and has received the Knight's Cross of the Order of the Cross of Vytis for her efforts to share the history of totalitarianism in the Baltics.She is a kind guest and a dear friend, and speaks highly of her time at writing conferences. Enjoy!

In this episode, host Amy welcomes two incredible best-selling authors, Colleen Coble and Denise Hunter. Together, they explore their unique writing journeys, the power of collaboration, and the secrets behind their enduring critique partnership of 25 years. Learn about their latest books—Colleen’s I Think I Was Murdered and Denise’s Before We Were Us—and get inspired by their insights on storytelling, character development, and finding your voice as a writer. Plus, discover why writer conferences are transformative for creative growth. Don’t miss this heartwarming and insightful conversation with two literary powerhouses! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your fellow creatives. Your support helps us continue bringing you the best in storytelling inspiration! We're doing a giveaway! Send us a DM on Instagram that you want to win a copy of Colleen Coble's I Think I Was Murdered or Denise Hunter's Before We Were Us and you'll be entered to win! Learn more about WriterFest Nashville: www.writerfestnashville.com

In this episode, we sit down with bestselling thriller author Kiersten Modglin to uncover the secrets behind her prolific writing career and her journey as an independent author. From the relentless drive that keeps her writing every day to the unique mental hacks she uses to immerse herself in her story worlds, Kiersten shares her insights on what it takes to succeed in publishing. She talks candidly about her DIY approach to everything from book covers to marketing, her inspirations in the thriller genre, and how she draws motivation from authors like Colleen Hoover and Glennon Doyle. As we look forward to Kiersten’s appearance at WriterFest, she offers invaluable advice for writers aiming to make a living from their art, touching on her influences, her favorite books and podcasts, and her go-to playlist that keeps her focused. Whether you're an aspiring writer or a fan of psychological thrillers, this episode offers inspiration, practical tips, and a glimpse into the mindset of an author committed to both her craft and her readers. Contagious Enthusiasm: Authors Colleen Hoover Candy Steiner Megan Brandy Emerald O'Brien Glennon Doyle Adele Parks Mark Edwards Taylor Jenkins Reid Jodi Picoult V.E. Schwab Podcasts Nate Land Podcast We Can Do Hard Things Call Her Daddy with Alex Cooper Books Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes Untamed by Glennon Doyle The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab Learn more about WriterFest Nashville, happening Novemeber 22-23, 2024 at www.writerfestnashville.com

We want to see you at WriterFest Nashville! In this FUN episode, Ami, Sara, and Risha chat about ALL THINGS WriterFest Nashville, happening November 22-23 at Belmont University. Listen as we discuss panels, workshops, and A Dolly Good Time, our fundraising event happening on November 21 at Acme Feed & Seed on Broadway. Whether you're a writer of books, songs, or screenplays, Writer Fest has something for everyone. Get $50 off your ticket at checkout with the code: PODCAST Buy tickets to WriterFest Nashville Buy tickets to A Dolly Good Time Learn more about WriterFest Nashville: www.writerfestnashville.com

In this episode of the Writerfest Podcast, we welcome Marjorie Wentworth, poet, educator, and former poet laureate of South Carolina. Marjorie joins us to discuss her latest book, One River, One Boat, a captivating blend of poetry and memoir that reflects on her personal journey and pivotal events in her communities. From her recent move to Springfield, Ohio, and advocacy with the local Haitian immigrant community to her reflections on the joys and challenges of being a poet laureate, Marjorie shares insights on the power of poetry to capture collective experience. We delve into the art of occasional poetry—poems crafted for specific public events—and hear how Marjorie has navigated emotional readings in challenging settings, such as her poem for the Mother Emanuel Church tragedy and a controversial inauguration piece. Marjorie also previews her Journey Storytelling Project, which fosters empathy through immigrant stories, and shares her current literary inspirations. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on writing, resilience, and the transformative role of poetry in connecting communities. Marjory will be at WriterFest Nashville! Join us there: www.writerfestnashville.com Also, join her at The Porch's Literary Conversations Happy Hour on November 22. Contagious Enthusiasm: Writer: Colm Tóibín Writer: Edwidge Danticat Poet: Mary Oliver Learn more about Writerfest Nashville here!

In this episode of the WriterFest Podcast, host Amy McConnell welcomes Cheryl Davis, General Counsel of the Authors Guild, for a fascinating conversation about the legal landscape for writers. With over 30 years of experience in intellectual property and advocacy, Cheryl shares her insights on topics such as book contracts, copyright protection, and the Authors Guild’s ongoing fight to defend authors’ rights. They delve into timely issues like book banning, ghostwriting, and the ever-evolving challenges of artificial intelligence in the creative space. Writers and creatives won’t want to miss this episode packed with valuable resources and advocacy tips. Highlights: Cheryl explains how the Authors Guild supports writers with everything from legal advice to publishing contracts. Discussions on how book banning impacts authors and Cheryl’s favorite banned book, Beloved by Toni Morrison. Insight into AI’s impact on the writing industry and the Guild’s lawsuit to protect authors' work from being exploited. Tips for emerging writers, including information on hybrid and self-publishing resources available through the Guild. A deep dive into intellectual property issues for creatives, especially in film and TV. Resources: Learn more about the Authors Guild and their resources for writers at AuthorsGuild.org. Interested in Cheryl’s favorite podcast-inspired show, Fight Night? Check out the original podcast it’s based on. Get your tickets for WriterFest Nashville, happening on November 22-23 at Belmont University. Visit WriterFestNashville.com for details.

Buy tickets to Writerfest Nashville Buy tickets to A Dolly Good Time Find more information at www.writerfestnashville.com --- We're joined by Mimi McCarley, owner of Collab Music Network, on this episode of the podcast! Her story will inspire to write more and to collaborate with others! Listen as she shares her journey in the music industry, how relationships have made her a better writer and business owner, and how she stays creative. If you're needing some inspiration, this episode is for you! Contagious Enthusiasm: Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist Connect with Mimi on Instagram

In this exciting episode, we chat with the multi-talented Meredith Rae Lyons, author of Ghost Tamer. Join us as she takes us on a journey through her creative process, sharing how a terrifying nightmare inspired her latest paranormal thriller about a comedian-turned-ghost whisperer. We dive into themes of loss, grief, and resilience, exploring how Meredith brings humor and heart to dark, supernatural tales. With an exclusive sneak peek at her upcoming book, A Dagger of Lightning, we discuss the magic of blending genres, the evolution of her writing career, and the lessons learned from life-changing injuries to powerful artistic transformations. Whether you're a writer, reader, or simply love a good ghost story, this episode has something for everyone! Buy Ghost Tamer: https://www.meredithraelyons.com/ghosttamer Preorder A Dagger of Lightning: https://www.meredithraelyons.com/a-dagger-of-lightning Attend the Ghost Tamer Paperback Release in Chicago: https://www.meredithraelyons.com/events/2024/10/8/paperback-release-in-chicago Contagious Enthusiasm Libby: https://libbyapp.com/ Literature Map: https://www.literature-map.com/

In this episode, we preview what’s in store for the Writerfest Nashville, taking place on November 22-23 at Belmont University. Join our program director Sara Wigal and Ami McConnell as they discuss the exciting updates for this year’s conference, including new keynote speakers and must-attend panels. Keynote Speakers: William Paul Young - William Paul Young is a Canadian author. He wrote the novels The Shack (A New York Times bestseller), Cross Roads, Eve, and the religious book Lies We Believe About God. His Christian-fiction novel The Shack was adapted to film in 2017. Anne Bogel - Anne Bogel is the creator of the literary podcasts What Should I Read Next? and One Great Book, as well as the long-running blog Modern Mrs Darcy and its associated bookclub. She is also the author of several nonfiction books. Aaron Covington - Aaron Covington co-wrote the Rocky sequel blockbuster, Creed, directed by Ryan Coogler. He is a writer on NBC's Grand Crew, the writer and director of the short film The Last Real Magical Negro, and creator/co-host of the podcasts Black Guys on White Movies and The 40, Black, and Dad Show.  Save $50 on your two-day ticket using the code PODCAST at checkout!  One day tickets are also available. Full schedule and tickets available at writerfestnashville.com Tickets to A Dolly Good Time - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-dolly-good-time-a-benefit-for-dolly-partons-imagination-library-tickets-949891329537?aff=oddtdtcreator

In this episode of the Writerfest Podcast, Ami McConnell brings you an inspiring conversation with Jason Goldman, the director of the powerful documentary Rowdy Girl, and Renee King-Sonnen, the remarkable woman at the heart of the film. Rowdy Girl tells the transformative story of a former Texas cattle rancher who, after a profound spiritual awakening, decided to leave behind the cycle of animal agriculture and turn her husband’s beef operation into a sanctuary for animals. Renee’s journey from rancher to vegan activist highlights the possibility of finding common ground between farmers and vegans, all united by a shared mission of compassion and sustainability. Jason Goldman’s verité filmmaking style beautifully captures the deep connections between Renee, her husband Tommy, and the animals that now inhabit Rowdy Girl Sanctuary. If you’re in Nashville, don’t miss the chance to watch Rowdy Girl on the big screen! There will be a special screening at the Belcourt Theater on August 27th at 8 PM, followed by a post-screening discussion with Jason and Renee! More details about the film and screening can be found at rowdygirlfilm.com. Learn more about Writerfest Nashville and buy your tickets for our two-day conference, happening November 22-23, 2024: ⁠⁠www.writerfestnashville.com⁠⁠.