Idiosyncratic Fables

James R. Cheatham

Everyone has a story to tell. Everyone is worthy to be heard. Everyone is a little unique, unusual, and weird in their own way and I want this to be a space that is safe to be just that. I not only want to hear your story, but I want to give you an opportunity to share it. Whether it’s a story that’s personal to you, or if you have a story you want to read, I want you to have the freedom to share it. This is Idiosyncratic Fables.

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23 episodes
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S3 · E40
Tuesday · 43 min
Elizabeth Clayton on Dragons, Banter & the Shadows and Secrets Series
In this episode, I’m joined by romantasy author Elizabeth Clayton, the creative mind behind the Shadows and Secrets series. We dive into her epic world of dragons, rebellion, slow-burn romance, sharp banter, and just the right amount of steam. Elizabeth shares the inspiration behind Shadow and Jewel, Broken and Bound, and Secrets of the Bone Dagger, how she crafts unforgettable characters like a betrayed princess and a haunted bounty hunter, and what it’s like building an indie romantasy career in today’s BookTok-driven landscape. From world-building and character arcs to the joys (and challenges) of self-publishing and connecting with readers, this conversation is packed with insight for fantasy romance fans and aspiring authors alike. Tune in for dragons, chemistry, and plenty of behind-the-scenes storytelling magic. #Romantasy #FantasyRomance #ElizabethClayton #ShadowsAndSecrets #ShadowAndJewel #IndieAuthor #BookTok #DragonBooks #SlowBurnRomance #FantasyBooks #BookPodcast #AuthorInterview #RomantasyBooks #EpicFantasy #BookLovers Join my Discord server! https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc
S3 · E39
September 8 · 43 min
Duty, Faith & Adventure: A Conversation with Author Dan E. Hendrickson
In this episode, we sit down with award-winning author Dan E. Hendrickson. Born and raised in Sheridan, Wyoming, Dan has lived an extraordinary life as a journalist, Christian minister, martial arts instructor, EMT, firefighter, and longtime auto detailing business owner with his wife Cheryl. In recent years he returned to his passion for storytelling and has since published multiple action-packed novels spanning Westerns, military thrillers, pirate adventures, and historical fiction. Listeners will hear about the multi-generational Edwards family saga in the Last Enemy series, the swashbuckling Pirate Princess books, the deeply researched biblical historical novel Magi Apprentice, and newer works like Railroad Man, Legacies Son. Dan shares how his real-world experiences shape his heroes, the intensive research behind his historical stories, the role of faith and redemption in his writing, and what keeps him creating across so many genres. A rich conversation about duty, trauma, adventure, and the power of story. My Discord server - https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc Follow me on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@narratorjames #DanEHendrickson #AuthorInterview #HistoricalFiction #ActionThriller #WesternFiction #PirateAdventure #ChristianFiction #WritingLife #BookPodcast #LastEnemySeries #MagiApprentice #IndieAuthor
S3 · E38
September 8 · 44 min
Looks Like Edward Norton, Works Like a Teamster: Craig Michael Beck
In this episode, we sit down with Craig Michael Beck — a SAG-AFTRA actor based in Savannah, Georgia, who also works regularly in the transportation and art departments on film and television productions across the Atlanta area. Craig shares how he made the leap into acting at 35 after years in direct sales, what it’s really like balancing performance work with crew gigs, and some memorable stories from sets including Peacemaker, The Suicide Squad, and more. They also talk about his unique skill set (Class A CDL, instrument-rated pilot, DiveMaster), life with his production-designer wife, the booming Georgia film industry, and how they first crossed paths on the Audiobooks at Sea cruise in 2024. A candid, behind-the-scenes conversation about late starts, dual careers, and the real day-to-day of making movies in the South. My Discord server - https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc Follow me on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@narratorjames #CraigMichaelBeck #FilmPodcast #GeorgiaFilm #AtlantaFilm #BehindTheScenes #ActingLife #SAGAFTRA #Teamsters #IndieFilm #AudiobooksAtSea #PodcastInterview
S3 · E37
August 31 · 51 min
From Conductor to Character: Michael Norman Johnson
In this episode, we sit down with professional audiobook narrator and voice actor Michael Norman Johnson. Once a passenger train conductor, Michael discovered the power of audiobooks and made the leap into full-time narration. Today he records from a broadcast-quality home studio, delivering immersive, character-driven performances across romance, LitRPG, fantasy, science fiction, and mystery. We talk about his unexpected career shift, how martial arts training and live performance shape his work in the booth, the craft of creating distinct character voices, the challenges of dual narration and spicy scenes, and what it’s like balancing performance with his role as Lead Engineer and Executive Producer for Pink Flamingo Productions. Join us for an engaging conversation about storytelling, the business of audiobooks, and the journey from the rails to the recording booth. Be sure to join my Discord server! https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc #MichaelNormanJohnson #AudiobookNarrator #Narration #RomanceAudiobooks #LitRPG #FantasyAudiobooks #DualNarration #BoothLife #NewEpisode #PodcastInterview
S3 · E36
August 28 · 55 min
Mistress of the Revolution: TJ London on Spies, Loyalty & the Rebels and Redcoats Saga
In this episode, we sit down with author TJ London — the self-described rebel, liberal, lover, fighter, and mohawk-rocking Mistress of the Revolution. A pharmacist-turned-storyteller, TJ takes us deep into her gritty, steamy historical fiction series The Rebels and Redcoats Saga, set against the backdrop of the American Revolutionary War. From the conflicted Redcoat Captain John Carlisle to the fierce Oneida connections and the Carlisle-McKesson families, she shares how she fills in the forgotten gaps of history while weaving in romance, espionage, loyalty, and conscience. We talk about her intensive research process, the indie path after countless rejections, her award-winning multi-cast audiobook productions, and how her own mental-health journey shapes the metaphors woven throughout the books. Plus, what’s next for the saga and why she believes everyone should rock their own revolution. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about history, passion, resilience, and storytelling that refuses to play it safe. #TJLondon #RebelsAndRedcoats #HistoricalFiction #HistoricalRomance #AmericanRevolution #RevolutionaryWar #IndieAuthor #Audiobooks #BookPodcast #AuthorInterview #MistressOfTheRevolution #SpyRomance #Oneida #WritingJourney #MentalHealthAndWriting Come join me in Discord! https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc
S3 · E35
August 28 · 42 min
Shipmate Stories: Life Aboard the USS Kitty Hawk with Billy Lee Masten
In this episode, host James R. Cheatham sits down with his former shipmate Billy Lee Masten — a Ships Serviceman (SH) who served aboard the legendary USS Kitty Hawk. Together they revisit the steel decks, the long deployments, and the high-stakes world of keeping an aircraft carrier running and ready. Billy shares what it was like growing up in Axtell, Texas, joining the Navy, and spending years as a SH. He opens up about life at sea, the unexpected moments that stay with you, and the powerful homecoming that brought him back to his family after years away. From the grind of shipboard life to the quieter challenges of transitioning to the civilian world, Billy’s story is one of service, resilience, and finding home again. This is a conversation about what the Navy takes, what it gives, and the life that continues after the uniform comes off. Tune in for sea stories, honest reflections, and one of those rare journeys that feels both deeply personal and universally human. #IdiosyncraticFables #BillyLeeMasten #USSKittyHawk #NavyVeteran #MilitaryStories #VeteransStories #ShipmateStories #NavyLife #DamageControlman #VeteranPodcast #TrueStories #PersonalJourney #TexasVeteran
S3 · E34
August 20 · 43 min
Bacon, Battles & Big Magic: Interview with Fantasy Author Frank Morin
Join me for a fun and action-packed conversation with fantasy author Frank Morin! Best known for his epic teen fantasy series The Petralist — full of explosive magic, high-stakes adventure, and brilliant humor — Frank also delights readers with quirky, fast-paced tales like Bacon Master of the Apocalypse and the gods of the Pantryon. In this episode, we explore his creative journey, the inspiration behind his wildly imaginative worlds, how he blends humor with heart-pounding action, his love of outdoor adventures and research trips, and what’s coming next for fans. Whether you’re a longtime Petralist fan or new to his stories, this interview is packed with laughs, storytelling insights, and plenty of book recommendations. Grab your favorite snack (bacon encouraged), settle in, and get ready for a fantastic ride through magic, mayhem, and memorable characters! https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc #FantasyBooks #AuthorInterview #ThePetralist #BaconMasterOfTheApocalypse #FantasyAuthor #EpicFantasy #BookPodcast #IndieAuthor #WritingJourney #QuirkyFantasy
S3 · E33
August 20 · 30 min
From Dragons to Conspiracies: Jack Adkins on Fantasy, Thrillers & Appalachian Secrets
From Dragons to Conspiracies: Jack Adkins on Fantasy, Thrillers & Appalachian Secrets In this episode, I’m joined by author Jack Adkins — an Eastern Kentucky IT professional, lifelong Dungeon Master, and the creative force behind the humorous epic fantasy series The Dragons of Dorwine. Jack’s trilogy follows Anuka Sandbar, a charming half-goblin con artist on a high-stakes search for his missing father in a world where dragons rule as gods and hoard all magic. The books blend sharp humor with deeper themes of faith, power, mercy, and the lasting consequences of hard choices. We also dig into Jack’s shift into grounded Appalachian thrillers with his new Nolan Keller series, starting with The Devil on Klack Mountain — a story that weaves small-town secrets, modern espionage, folklore, and buried science beneath the mountains. Along the way, Jack shares how three decades of tabletop role-playing shaped his storytelling, what it was like landing legendary narrator Michael Kramer as a self-published author, how he balances writing with a full-time hospital job and raising four sons, and the creative leap from dragons to conspiracies. Whether you love epic fantasy, intelligent thrillers, or stories rooted in Appalachian soil, this conversation offers a fascinating look at a writer who refuses easy answers. https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc #JackAdkins #DragonsOfDorwine #EpicFantasy #IndieFantasy #HalfGoblin #FantasyBooks #AuthorInterview
S3 · E32
August 10 · 40 min
Attacking the Dragon: A. Marc Ross on China, Power, and the Thriller
Attacking the Dragon: A. Marc Ross on China, Power, and the Thriller In this episode, we’re joined by A. Marc Ross — Stanford Law graduate, corporate lawyer, and author of the gripping political thrillers The Conscripted Extremist and Attacking the Dragon. After decades working on high-stakes international deals and spending significant time in China, Marc turned to fiction, crafting stories that blend real-world geopolitics, political extremism, and pulse-pounding suspense. His latest novel, Attacking the Dragon, explores terrorist attacks aimed at undermining China’s global ambitions and has already earned multiple literary festival honors. We discuss his journey from the boardroom to the page, how his professional experience in China and international business shapes his writing, the challenges of tackling charged political themes, and what’s next — including a potential limited series adaptation of The Conscripted Extremist. A fascinating conversation about power, hidden agendas, and the art of the modern thriller. Follow him at his website: https://www.amarcross.com Join my Discord server here: https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc #AMarcRoss #AttackingTheDragon #TheConscriptedExtremist #ThrillerAuthor #PoliticalThriller #Geopolitics #China #AuthorInterview #BookPodcast #WritingCommunity #IndieAuthor #StanfordLaw #PodcastInterview
S3 · E31
July 30 · 37 min
From Father to Daughter: Reviving Bob Liter’s Nick Bancroft Mystery Legacy
In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, we sit down with Marty Ogborn, daughter of the late author Bob Liter. After her father’s passing in 2008, Marty took on the mission of preserving and expanding his literary legacy — reissuing his beloved Nick Bancroft mystery series and writing new sequels that continue the story for a new generation. Bob Liter, a U.S. Navy veteran, longtime journalist, and copy editor at the Peoria Journal Star, created the Nick Bancroft Mysteries — a fun, witty, and suspenseful soft-boiled series set in the fictional Central City, Illinois (a town that feels remarkably like Peoria). Nick, a wisecracking freelance reporter and private investigator, was modeled after Bob himself, while his on-again, off-again love interest Maggie Atley was inspired by Marty’s mother, Lillian. Marty shares touching family stories, reveals how rereading her dad’s books gave her new insight into the man behind the stories, and discusses the joys and challenges of stepping into the author role herself. Whether you love classic mysteries, family legacies, or stories about keeping creativity alive across generations, this conversation is full of warmth, wisdom, and Midwestern charm. Discover the Nick Bancroft Mysteries in ebook, paperback, and audiobook formats, and get ready for fresh adventures from the next generation of Bancroft writers. Tune in now and be inspired to protect your own family stories. Join the Discord server here: https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc #NickBancroftMysteries #BobLiter #MartyOgborn #LiteraryLegacy #FamilyLegacy #MysteryBooks #IndiePublishing #WritingLegacy #MidwestAuthors #PodcastInterview #BookLovers #CozyMysteries #CarryTheLegacy
S3 · E30
July 29 · 39 min
From IT Manager to LitRPG Hero: Steve Harthun on Ashes of Vaeltharion
In this episode, we sit down with debut author Steve Harthun to discuss his gritty LitRPG progression fantasy series, Ashes of Vaeltharion. Steve introduces us to Burden of Fate, where a washed-up Army Ranger from Kentucky is ripped into a brutal world with nothing but guilt, addiction, and survival instincts. No chosen-one tropes here — just hard-earned power, tactical combat, dark fantasy, and a world where magic has strict rules and weakness gets you killed. We dive into Steve’s journey from IT manager and father of eight to published author, his time on Royal Road, building ruthless progression systems, writing flawed and broken heroes, and the heavy themes of trauma, redemption, and resilience that fuel the series. Whether you’re a fan of Dungeon Crawler Carl, grimdark fantasy, or stories where every level comes at a real cost, this conversation is packed with insight, inspiration, and plenty of world-building details. Tune in for a raw, honest look at what it takes to create a compelling new voice in LitRPG and progression fantasy. Available now on Amazon Kindle Unlimited and Audible. Join my Discord server here: https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc #LitRPG #ProgressionFantasy #AshesOfVaeltharion #BurdenOfFate #DarkFantasy #Isekai #Grimdark #LitRPGAuthor #FantasyBooks #IndieAuthor #RoyalRoad #KindleUnlimited #NewFantasy #BookPodcast #FantasyLiterature
S3 · E29
July 20 · 36 min
Walking a Thousand Li: A Conversation with Tao Wong
Join us for an inspiring deep dive with Tao Wong, the acclaimed author of the A Thousand Li progression fantasy series and the groundbreaking System Apocalypse LitRPG universe. From his roots in Malaysia to building a full-time writing career in Canada, Tao shares his journey from self-publishing his first book in 2017 to landing major traditional hardcover deals with Ace Books in 2026. We explore the inspiration behind his grounded cultivation stories, the authenticity he brings to martial arts and sect life, his writing process, the business of publishing, and what it takes to succeed in the competitive world of genre fiction. Whether you’re a fan of xianxia, LitRPG, progression fantasy, or an aspiring author looking for insights, this conversation is packed with wisdom, stories, and actionable advice. Listen now as we walk the path together — one step at a time. Join my Discord server here: https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc #AThousandLi #ProgressionFantasy #LitRPG #TaoWong #Xianxia #FantasyBooks #idiosyncraticfables #wildernessfireproductions #podcast
S1 · E28
July 3 · 39 min
Doug Lohse Returns: From Fighter Pilot to Dungeon Emperor + LitRPGCon 2026
Author Doug Lohse is back on the show for an action-packed return episode! Since his last visit, Doug has finished writing Dungeon Emperor Ascendant (Elsewhere Book 6), and the brand-new Elsewhere Omnibus (Books 1-3) has just released — perfect for new readers wanting to dive into Duke’s epic journey in one go. In this conversation we discuss: The evolution of the Elsewhere series and what to expect in Book 6 The new Omnibus edition and why now is a great time to jump in Life as a LitRPG author while balancing a demanding day job Doug’s experience with audiobooks (as [Your Name] is currently narrating Book 6!) His excitement for LitRPGCon in Denver next week — panels, meetups, and more Whether you’re a longtime fan of Duke’s aerial battles and dungeon conquests or brand new to the series, this episode is packed with insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and LitRPG community talk. Grab the Elsewhere Omnibus and catch up before Book 6 drops! #LitRPG #ElsewhereSeries #DungeonEmperorAscendant #LitRPGCon2026 #WildernessFireProductions #IdiosyncraticFables #Audiobook #Narrator #Podcast Join my Discord community here: https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc
S1 · E27
June 25 · 48 min
From Breaking Bad to the Booth: Mastering Voices with Steve Corona
In this episode, we sit down with acclaimed audiobook narrator and actor Steve Corona to explore the fascinating craft of bringing stories to life through voice alone. Steve has narrated hundreds of titles across sci-fi, fantasy, LitRPG, thrillers, and nonfiction. A trained theater artist with an MA in Theatre Arts, he’s also appeared on screen in Breaking Bad, Army of the Dead, The Lone Ranger, and more. As a sought-after accent and dialect coach, he’s worked with Hollywood talent including Helen Mirren and Gerard Butler. We dive deep into: How Steve creates unforgettable character voices and maintains consistency across massive series The art and technique of mastering accents and dialects What it’s really like going from on-camera acting to the solitary (but powerful) world of the recording booth The rapid growth of the audiobook industry and tips for authors hiring narrators His personal journey, including reading entire Harry Potter series to his kids with distinct voices for every character Whether you’re an audiobook lover, aspiring narrator, writer, voice actor, or just fascinated by performance and storytelling, this conversation is packed with practical insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and plenty of vocal wisdom. Tune in for an inspiring look at one of the most important — yet often invisible — roles in modern storytelling. Steve Corona: Award-winning narrator, actor, and dialect coach. Available now on all major platforms. Find Steve and his work here: https://www.coronaproductions.org Join my Discord server here: https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc #AudiobookNarrator #VoiceActor #Audiobooks #VoiceActing #SteveCorona #BreakingBad #FantasyBooks #LitRPG #Accents #PodcastEpisode #WildernessFireProductions #IdiosyncraticFables
S3 · E26
June 19 · 52 min
Building the Audiobook Empire: Jess Herring on Indie Audio Success
In this episode, I sit down with Jess Herring, founder of Audiobook Empire and former “Audiobookworm,” one of the most trusted names in indie audiobook production. Jess shares her journey from passionate audiobook blogger to building a full-service production company that helps indie authors create professional, high-quality audiobooks — from casting narrators and managing production to multilingual releases and strategic launches. We dive into: What indie authors need to know before investing in an audiobook How to find and work successfully with narrators The current state of AI narration vs. human performers Practical tips for turning your book into a profitable audio experience Behind-the-scenes stories from the Audiobook Empire Whether you’re an author, narrator, or audiobook lover, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and real-world advice you won’t find anywhere else. Tune in now and discover how to succeed in the booming world of audiobooks! Be sure to join my Discord community too! https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc #AudiobookEmpire #Audiobooks #IndieAuthor #AudiobookProduction #IndiePublishing #AuthorLife #WritingCommunity #PodcastForAuthors #WildernessFireProductions #IdiosyncraticFables #podcast
S1 · E25
June 18 · 44 min
Chaos, Slugs & Progression: Reck Well on LitRPG and Cozy Mayhem
Join us on Idiosyncratic Fables for a delightfully chaotic conversation with Reck Well, the LitRPG and cozy fantasy author behind the Potions and Perils series and the wildly entertaining Stumbling Up: A Loser’s Guide to Progression. In this episode, Reck dives into their journey from private writer to published author, the joys of writing deeply flawed characters who somehow keep leveling up, and why “loser protagonists” make for such compelling stories. We explore the cozy swamp vibes and found-family warmth of Potions and Perils, the banana slug shenanigans and questionable life choices in Stumbling Up, and how humor, heart, and humanity shine through both progression fantasy and low-stakes fantasy. Reck also shares insights on the evolving LitRPG genre, their writing process, building community as an indie author, and what it’s like balancing cozy comfort with genuine character growth and chaos. Expect laughs, honest craft talk, and plenty of idiosyncratic wisdom. Whether you’re a fan of cozy fantasy, LitRPG, underdog stories, or just enjoy watching characters make gloriously bad decisions on their way to victory, this episode is packed with warmth, wit, and inspiration. Reck Well — bringing the slugs, the stats, and the heart. Available now on all major platforms. Grab a potion (or a banana slug), hit play, and get ready to stumble up with us! Be sure to join my Discord server too! https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc #IdiosyncraticFables #ReckWell #LitRPG #CozyFantasy #StumblingUp #PotionsAndPerils #BananaSlug #ProgressionFantasy #FantasyBooks #LitRPGPodcast #CozyFantasyBooks #IndieAuthor #FoundFamily #FantasyPodcast #BookTok #LitRPGCommunity
S3 · E24
June 16 · 50 min
Bilingual Narrator, PhD Scholar, Voice Actor: The Christopher Brown Story
Join us for an engaging conversation with acclaimed audiobook narrator Christopher P. Brown (who also records romance and rom-com as Patrick Brawn). An English/Spanish bilingual narrator based in Rochester, NY, Christopher brings warmth, depth, and versatility to every project. AudioFile Magazine has praised his “immersive” narration and conversational tone. With training in scripted theater and improvisation — plus advanced degrees in Spanish Literature and Leadership Studies — he excels at bringing complex characters and stories to life across genres. In this episode, Christopher shares: How his theater, academic, and bilingual background shape his narration style The craft of creating distinct character voices, accents, and immersive performances Switching between epic fantasy, sci-fi, literary fiction, and steamy romance His home studio process, favorite projects, and the joys (and challenges) of the booth Valuable advice for aspiring narrators Whether you’re a dedicated audiobook listener, a aspiring voice actor, or just love great storytelling, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration. Go check out his website here: https://christopherbrownaudio.com Be sure to join my Discord server here: https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc #Audiobooks #AudiobookNarrator #ChristopherBrown #PatrickBrawn #VoiceActor #FantasyAudiobooks #RomanceAudiobooks #Audiobookstagram #BehindTheMic
S1 · E23
June 11 · 44 min
From US Marine to LitRPG Powerhouse: Sean Oswald’s Multiverse Journey
Join us for an inspiring and high-energy conversation with one of LitRPG’s most prolific and multifaceted authors — Sean Oswald! From serving as a US Marine straight out of high school to earning a degree in ancient languages, doing missionary work in India, practicing law, and raising nine children, Sean brings a wealth of real-life experience to his storytelling. He’s the bestselling author of the hit series Welcome to the Multiverse, Life in Exile, Dragon Sorcerer, Draconic Core, and dozens more — with over 50 books written or co-written. In this episode, Sean opens up about his incredible journey, how his diverse background shapes his worldbuilding, and what it really takes to maintain that kind of creative output while balancing family and a legal career. We dive into LitRPG systems, power progression, writing massive interconnected universes, fatherhood, and the themes that drive his stories. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Welcome to the Multiverse or just discovering LitRPG, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and plenty of behind-the-scenes stories from one of the genre’s hardest-working authors. Find all of Sean's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B082P3914C Be sure to join my Discord here: https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc #LitRPG #SeanOswald #WelcomeToTheMultiverse #GameLit #LitRPGAuthor #ProgressionFantasy #WildernessFireProductions #IdiosyncraticFables
S3 · E22
June 9 · 44 min
From Danish Dad to Dragon Master: Lars Machmüller on LitRPG Success
In this episode, we sit down with Lars Machmüller — Danish author, family man, and one of LitRPG’s most creative voices. From writing quirky bards who solve problems with music and wits to reincarnated dragons conquering the world and high-stakes card-deck battles, Lars has carved out a unique space in the genre with humor, heart, and smart game systems. We dive into his journey from part-time writer to full-time author, the challenges and joys of the World of Chains series (The Wayward Bard), the epic conclusion of the Dragon Core Chronicles, and his newest series Theft of Decks. Lars shares what it takes to build memorable characters, fresh mechanics, and stories that stand out in a crowded genre, plus practical advice for aspiring writers and plenty of behind-the-scenes stories. Whether you’re a longtime LitRPG fan or new to the genre, this conversation is packed with insight, laughs, and inspiration. Go check out his website here: https://larsm-writes.com His Patreon is here: https://www.patreon.com/Moulder666 Also join his Discord server here: https://discord.gg/z6S8RbKmT You can also join my Discord server here: https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc #LitRPG #GameLit #LarsMachmuller #DragonCore #TheWaywardBard #TheftOfDecks #LitRPGAuthor #FantasyBooks #Isekai #ProgressionFantasy #Audiobooks #IndieAuthor #podcast #idiosyncraticfables #wildernessfireproductions
S3 · E21
June 5 · 43 min
From Circuit Boards to Character Voices: Gary Bennett
What happens when a successful electrical engineer walks away from circuit boards and business ownership to chase a passion for storytelling? You get one of the most versatile and compelling voices in audiobooks today. In this episode, I sit down with award-winning, SOVAS-nominated SAG-AFTRA narrator Gary Bennett. With over 270 audiobooks narrated for major publishers including Blackstone, Macmillan, Penguin Random House, and more, Gary has brought to life spies, wizards, vampires, trolls, conflicted heroes, and villains across thrillers, fantasy, sci-fi, mysteries, and historical fiction. Gary shares his remarkable career pivot, the meticulous craft of professional narration — from prepping a book and building distinct character voices (including British, Scottish, Italian, and Eastern European accents) to protecting vocal health during marathon recording sessions. We also explore the booming audiobook industry, the impact of AI, advice for aspiring narrators, and what it really takes to succeed behind the mic. Whether you’re an audiobook lover, aspiring voice actor, or someone who appreciates inspiring second-act stories, this conversation is packed with insight, warmth, and plenty of “how does he do that?” moments. Tune in to discover how Gary Bennett went from engineering to voicing entire worlds — one character at a time. Check out his website here: https://www.garybennettreads.com Are you an aspiring narrator? Click here: https://www.narratorsroadmap.com Join my Discord community here: https://discord.gg/6JKxwNQQJc #GaryBennett #AudiobookNarrator #VoiceActor #Audiobooks #BehindTheMic #NarrationCraft #SecondAct #CareerPivot #SOVAS #SAGAFTRA #AudiobookLovers #VoiceActing #Bookstagram #FantasyNarrator #ThrillerNarrator #PodcastInterview #Storytelling #AccentsAndVoices #AudiobookCommunity #ListenNow

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