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In Conversation with Terry Shepherd

Terry Shepherd

In Conversation with Terry Shepherd, award-winning broadcaster and author of the Jessica Ramirez Thrillers. A deep dive into the people and support systems behind the stories we love.

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  • Avg 26 min
  • English

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  • Thursday · 25 min

    Julie Fisher - A Pearl Is Just an Accident

    In this episode of "In Conversation," host Terry Shepherd sits down with London-born author Julie Esther Fisher to explore her new book, A Pearl Is Just an Accident. Set across 15 interconnected stories, the book follows Eliza James, a paintings conservator dedicated to carefully repairing damaged artwork by penetrating layers of surface grime and old overpaintings. As Eliza peels back these obscured layers professionally, she embarks on a parallel, non-linear journey back to London to uncover her own buried origins and grapple with intergenerational trauma, discovering that human damage is far more difficult to restore than art. During their conversation, Fisher and Shepherd discuss: The Pearl Metaphor: How the slow, 5-to-20-year formation of a pearl—where an unwanted irritant is gradually covered by protective layers until something luminous emerges—mirrors the lifetime process of carrying and transforming inherited damage. The Creative Journey: Fisher's realization that her work naturally formed a "novel in stories" rather than a conventionally arced novel, and how extracting her interconnected James family stories from earlier, "failed" drafts ultimately saved the project. Writing as Healing: The therapeutic power of strict free writing to bypass a strong inner critic, and how transforming difficult childhood moments into creative acts provided an essential path to joy and self-trust. The Influence of Poetry: How shifting to writing poetry taught Fisher the importance of experimental structures, brevity, and allowing silences to speak just as loudly as language on the page. Finding Grace: The evolution of her fictional family members from classic abusers into nuanced individuals carrying their own agonies, a choice driven by Fisher's desire to leave readers with a profound sense of hope. To learn more about Julie Esther Fisher and her work, visit julieestherfisher.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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  • October 1 · 28 min

    Ronan O'Connell - Hidden In Plain Sight

    There is a moment every traveler knows: standing before an iconic landmark, camera in hand, convinced you understand exactly what you are seeing. But beneath the surface of the world's most photographed places are stories much stranger, darker, and more extraordinary than standard guidebooks reveal. In this episode, host Terry Shepherd sits down with journalist and author Ronan O'Connell. A contributor to National Geographic, CNN, and the BBC, Ronan has spent over two decades visiting more than 60 countries. They dive into his new book, Hidden in Plain Sight - The Untold Mysteries, Myths, and Marvels of the World's Most Popular Landmarks, to explore the revolutions, legends, and secrets hiding in plain view. Episode Highlights: From Crime to Culture: Ronan transitioned from covering murders and politics at The West Australian to freelance travel journalism. This major career shift happened after he took a risk to travel through Asia. The Problem with Modern Tourism: Search engine optimization and copy-pasted blogs often provide inaccurate or skin-deep history for famous locations. Ronan aimed to provide deep, accurate context that even locals might not know. A Grueling Creative Process: Ronan wrote and photographed the book entirely by himself. The timeline was intensely pressured, requiring travel to roughly 35 countries in under nine months. On one particular trip, he covered 14 countries in just 17 or 18 days. Chasing the Perfect Shot: To capture highly unique angles of famous buildings, Ronan intentionally avoided looking at other photographers' work on Instagram before his visits. A Brighter Worldview: His background as a crime reporter taught him that the news media relies heavily on fear and negativity. However, traveling the globe showed him that the actual state of the world is much better and more beautiful than our social feeds suggest. Ronan reminds us that travel isn't just about where we go, but how deeply we are willing to see. 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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  • September 30 · 30 min

    Chris Cheng - Proven in Blood

    Proving Loyalty in Blood: World War II's Nisei Soldiers with "Top Shot" Chris Cheng Join author and broadcaster Terry Shepherd for a compelling conversation with History Channel's "Top Shot" champion, Chris Cheng, exploring his debut historical novel, Proven in Blood. After the events of Pearl Harbor, protagonist Daniel Tanaka and his family are stripped of their constitutional rights and incarcerated behind barbed wire under Executive Order 9066. Despite this profound betrayal by his own government, Daniel volunteers for the U.S. Army to fight fascism in Europe. Inspired by the real-life heroes of the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team—the most decorated units in U.S. military history for their size and duration of service—Cheng’s novel examines the complex realities of war, brotherhood, and what it truly means to be an American. Episode Highlights: The Spark of Inspiration: How a surge of anti-Asian hate crimes during the pandemic and a Google search for "Guns of World War II Asian Americans" launched Cheng's six-year research journey. Boots on the Ground: The profound impact of touring the Italian and French battlefields with Nisei Legacy Tours and meeting the European townspeople who still commemorate their Japanese American liberators. Brotherhood and Division: The intense cultural friction and eventual bonding between the "Buddhaheads" (Hawaiian Japanese Americans) and the "Katonks" (mainland Japanese Americans) during basic training. The Burden of Honor: The deep moral dilemmas faced by the Nisei soldiers, who fought not only to defeat the Nazis and liberate Jewish prisoners at Dachau, but to ensure they did not bring shame to their families back home. A Foodie’s Confession: Cheng takes a break from history to share his passion for Japanese Wagyu beef and a recent birthday celebration at San Francisco's Niku Steakhouse. Mentioned in this Episode: Learn more about Chris Cheng's work, his advocacy, and grab your copy of Proven in Blood by visiting topshotchris.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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  • September 28 · 34 min

    Molly Guptill Manning - A Librarian's War

    Wars are typically fought with bullets and bombs, but one unsung hero believed a good book was just as essential. In this episode, Terry Shepherd sits down with author and law professor Molly Guptill Manning to uncover the extraordinary, largely forgotten story of Ray Trautman. As the chief librarian of the United States Army during World War II, Trautman built the largest military library system in history and ultimately placed nearly half a billion pieces of reading material into the hands of American troops. Manning discusses her new book, A Librarian's War: The Man Who Fought World War II with Books and Brought the Joy of Reading to Millions, detailing how a kid from a book-starved town in rural Ohio fundamentally changed the American publishing landscape. From battling skeptical generals and fighting censorship to a near-death encounter at the Battle of the Bulge, Trautman's mission was singular: give people the books they want to read. In this episode, we cover: The Birth of the Pocket Paperback: Discover how Trautman convinced reluctant publishers to print 123 million wallet-sized "Armed Services Editions" for soldiers who couldn't carry heavy hardcovers. Fighting Book Bans: Hear the incredible story of how Trautman defied a general's order to destroy copies of Ernest Hemingway's short stories in the European Theater. The Battle of the Bulge: Learn how this unarmed librarian drove directly into a secret German counteroffensive, took command of stranded soldiers, and fought tanks with improvised weaponry. A Post-War Reading Boom: Find out how returning veterans fueled a massive expansion in the paperback industry and civilian library usage. Pioneering Audiobooks: Explore Trautman’s later crusade to improve braille books and his push to hire professional voice actors to record high-quality audiobooks for the visually impaired. To learn more about Ray Trautman's legacy, pick up a copy of A Librarian's War and visit Molly Guptill Manning's website at mollymanning.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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  • September 22 · 34 min

    Patricia Leavy - Sugar Sand Land

    In this episode, host Terry Shepherd sits down with Dr. Patricia Leavy—a sociologist, pioneer of arts-based research, and author of over fifty books—to discuss her 25th work of fiction, Sugar Sand Land. The novel is a contemporary romance that follows the unlikely connection between Emerson Blue, a 28-year-old wildly famous social media influencer, and Ren Walker, a 48-year-old Grammy-winning country star living in exile after allegations of sexual misconduct. Beyond the engaging, escapist surface of a beach read, Leavy uses the story to ask difficult questions about modern society. The conversation explores the dangerous illusion of intimacy on social media, the harsh realities and lack of nuance in cancel culture, and the lifelong project of finding the courage to live authentically. Episode Highlights: The Illusion of Connection: Leavy unpacks how curating our lives on social media creates a gap between appearance and reality, which can actually leave people feeling more isolated and lonely. Cancel Culture and Nuance: A candid discussion on the dangers of reputational harm by rumor, the importance of due process, and the uncomfortable challenge of separating the art from the artist. Arts-Based Research: Leavy explains her groundbreaking work merging the arts with social sciences to make dense academic research accessible to the public, highlighting resources like the London Arts-Based Research Centre (LABRC). From Sociology to Fiction: Discover how Leavy's academic career studying women's lives paved the way for her transition into fiction, a medium she says builds deeper compassion for flawed, in-progress human beings. Resources & Links: Learn more about Patricia Leavy and her work at https://patricialeavy.com/. Grab a copy of her newest novel, Sugar Sand Land. 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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  • September 20 · 25 min

    Laurel Woods - Strip Club Heiress

    Imagine trying to hide your father’s multi-million-dollar strip club empire from your Catholic school teachers and ballet carpool. For Laurel Woods, that was just the beginning. In this gripping episode, host Terry Shepherd sits down with Laurel Woods to discuss her explosive new memoir, Strip Club Heiress. Laurel shares her incredible true story of growing up in the glittering, chaotic world of adult entertainment, which came crashing down when her father's business partner, Horace "Big Mac" McKenna Jr., was gunned down in 1989. When her father was arrested for the murder over a decade later, Laurel was unexpectedly thrust into the role of managing his seedy, cash-heavy empire to fund his defense. From navigating private investigators and employees with criminal priors to ultimately forging a wildly successful career path outside the clubs (including stints at Playboy, MTV, and Lucasfilm), Laurel's story is one of resilience, survival, and reinvention. In this episode, we cover: The Double Life: What it was like doing homework in a strip club back-office while attending Catholic school. The Murder & Arrest: The terrifying aftermath of Mac McKenna's assassination and the shock of her father's arrest 11 years later. Taking Charge: How a young woman stepped up to run a dangerous, underground cash business out of sheer necessity. Hollywood Highs: Wild behind-the-scenes stories from working at Playboy in the '90s, visual effects for Star Wars, and MTV. The Power of Forgiveness: Laurel’s profound journey to forgiving her narcissistic father and the unspoken trauma of having an incarcerated family member. Whether you are fascinated by true crime, stories of family dysfunction, or tales of ultimate personal reinvention (Laurel recently pivoted to emergency nursing!), this is an interview you won't want to miss. Connect with Laurel Woods: Read the book: Strip Club Heiress (Available everywhere) Website: laurel-woods.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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  • September 14 · 24 min

    L. Mark Weeks - Poontown: A Novel of Chasing Tarpon and Glory

    What happens when a high-powered international lawyer trades his Tokyo firm for the unforgiving saltwater flats of the Florida Keys? In this episode, Terry Shepherd sits down with L. Mark Weeks to discuss his transition from the legal world to becoming a three-time Tarpon Tournament grand champion and the author of Poontown: A Novel of Chasing Tarpon and Glory. We dive into the psychological pressure, technical precision, and raw obsession required to pursue the ultimate catch. In This Episode, We Discuss 🎣 The Allure of the Silver King: Why tarpon are considered the perfect game fish and how they can turn a casual saltwater fishing trip into a lifelong obsession. 🤝 The Angler-Guide Dynamic: The delicate, high-pressure relationship between tournament competitors and why mutual support is the ultimate secret to winning. 📖 Fact vs. Fiction: Why Mark chose the freedom of a novel over a memoir to capture the intense, secretive world of elite tarpon fishing without exposing real-life locations or revealing private secrets shared on the skiff. 🧠 Mental Endurance: How the grueling discipline of an international law career translated into tournament strategy and helped him handle the psychological weight of elite competition. About the Guest L. Mark Weeks walked away from his position as managing partner of a major Tokyo law firm at age 56 with two distinct goals: win an elite invitational Tarpon Tournament and write a novel about the experience before turning 60. He successfully accomplished both, becoming a multi-fly rod world record holder, a three-time grand champion, and the best-selling author of Bottled Lightning and Poontown. About Terry Shepherd Terry Shepherd is the host of "In Conversation," bringing listeners deep into the minds of today's most fascinating authors and storytellers. Links & Resources Get your copy of Poontown: A Novel of Chasing Tarpon and Glory: https://geni.us/Poontown Visit L. Mark Weeks' official website: https://lmweeks.com Connect with Terry Shepherd: https://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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  • September 10 · 23 min

    Judy Foreman - The Scallop Plot

    What happens when cutting-edge science, climate politics, corporate greed, and murder collide off the coast of Cape Cod? In this episode of In Conversation, Terry Shepherd sits down with award-winning journalist and author Judy Foreman to discuss her new thriller, The Scallop Plot. Judy shares how she transitioned from a career rooted in hard journalistic facts to crafting suspenseful fiction, all while keeping the science in her novels 100% accurate. The story follows Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter Samantha Fuller and a fiercely determined Cape Cod fisherwoman as they uncover a deadly scheme involving offshore wind power, genetically altered scallops, and CRISPR gene editing. Beyond the thriller, Terry and Judy dive deep into the real-world issues that inspired the book, the current state of the media landscape, and Judy's profound personal journey. Key Topics Discussed: How Judy's real-life Cape Cod handywoman—a former crane operator and scallop fisherwoman—inspired one of the book's main characters. The fascinating and terrifying realities of CRISPR gene editing, including its medical promise and ethical boundaries. The nuanced debate surrounding offshore wind farms and how right-wing fossil fuel "dark money" frequently funds what appear to be local protests. The dangerous polarization of modern media, the rise of disinformation, and why consumers must "consider the source and follow the buck." Judy's powerful memoir, Let the More Loving One Be Me: My Journey from Trauma to Freedom, which chronicles her lifelong journey of healing from childhood sexual abuse through therapy and love. Why exercise is crucial for brain health and how it produces BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), a topic from Judy's non-fiction book Exercise Is Medicine. About Our Guest: Judy Foreman is a former health columnist for The Boston Globe who has earned more than 50 journalism awards, including the George Foster Peabody Award. Throughout her distinguished career, she has held positions at Harvard Medical School, MIT, and Brandeis University. Connect with Judy Foreman: Visit her official website to learn more about her fiction, memoirs, and non-fiction work at judyforeman.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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  • September 9 · 31 min

    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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  • September 8 · 21 min

    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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  • September 1 · 23 min

    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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  • August 31 · 19 min

    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

    • Transcript
  • August 31 · 30 min

    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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  • August 30 · 27 min

    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

    • Transcript
  • August 19 · 35 min

    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

    • Transcript
  • August 15 · 32 min

    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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  • August 14 · 24 min

    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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  • August 11 · 24 min

    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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  • August 10 · 22 min

    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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  • August 7 · 29 min

    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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