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When Doctors Say “Never”: What Every Parent Needs to Hear | Episode 148

 

 

 

 

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At birth, doctors gave Suzy Fischer a devastating prognosis: she would never walk, never talk, never live independently, and never form meaningful relationships.

Born with severe brain abnormalities and the rare condition Joubert Syndrome, Suzy’s life was expected to be defined by limitations.

But her mother, Jane Fischer, refused to accept a future built on “nevers.”

In this deeply moving episode, we explore Suzy’s extraordinary journey—one marked by unimaginable challenges, relentless perseverance, and a mother’s unwavering belief in what could be instead of what doctors said would never be.

Today, Suzy is the oldest living person with Joubert Syndrome, and her story continues to challenge medical assumptions and inspire families around the world.

Her journey is captured in the powerful memoir: If You Knew Suzy: Pushing Past the Boundaries of Never.

This episode is a testament to love, resilience, advocacy, and the extraordinary strength found in both caregivers and children.

Listen To This Podcast Before Your Next Relationship | Episode 147

Today's episode is brought to you by L'Oreal Magic Root Cover-up!  Cover gray in just three seconds.

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WARNING: This episode contains discussions of drug manufacturing, violence, and assault.

Brenda Coffee shares her extraordinary memoir "Maya Blue: A Memoir of Survival"—a story described as a Netflix series come to life. From falling in love with the genius who invented the first personal computer to surviving a cocaine lab, threats from Big Tobacco, and a harrowing escape from the Guatemalan army, Brenda's journey is one of resilience and transformation.

0:00 - Introduction & Sponsor
1:33 - Brenda's Childhood: Military Father & Role Reversal with Mother
5:29 - Meeting Philip Ray: The Genius Behind the First Personal Computer
8:58 - Living on the Edge: Racing Cars & Dangerous Adventures
9:24 - Philip Decides to Make Cocaine from Scratch
15:12 - The Cocaine Lab: Discovery & Addiction
21:30 - Inventing the Vape: Coining "Vaping" in the Late 1970s
24:31 - Threats from Big Tobacco & the Government
28:00 - Philip's Death & Financial Devastation (1987)
28:26 - Sponsor Break
30:00 - Journey to Find Herself: Trip to Guatemala
32:30 - Captured by Guatemalan Army
35:18 - The Escape: Fighting Back & Survival
38:16 - The Meaning of Maya Blue: Strength & Resilience
41:31 - Transformation: Finding Brenda Coffee
43:34 - Therapy & Reclaiming Personal Power
45:25 - Closing & Book Information

How I edit my podcast and videos - Descript

How I record my podcast and videos - Streamyard

Where I source music - Epidemic Sound

DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that I provide I may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you!

EX-CIA Agent Unveils Thrilling Secrets | Episode 146

In this episode of the Bookaholic Podcast, host Tracy Abramson discusses her latest book, Victim Number Eight. With over 45 bestselling novels to her name, Tracy shares insights into her writing process, how her background in the CIA influences her thrillers, and the intricate research behind her stories. She talks about her visits to Istanbul, the personal experiences that shape her characters, and her commitment to maintaining a clean, character-driven narrative. Tracy also reflects on the importance of emotional authenticity in thrillers and her unique experiences interacting with other well-known authors like Brad Thor. Tune in to hear more about Tracy's journey, her writing expertise, and what keeps her motivated to excel in her genre.

00:00 Welcome to the Bookaholic Podcast

00:39 Inspiration Behind Victim Number Eight

01:41 Real-Life Experiences in Fiction

04:42 Exploring Istanbul and Cultural Insights

06:40 Researching Serial Killers for Authenticity

08:42 Balancing Action and Emotional Depth

09:53 Meeting Brad Thor and Industry Insights

14:54 Writing Clean Thrillers for a Broad Audience

17:39 Advice for Aspiring Thriller Writers

19:14 Where to Find Victim Number Eight

How ADHD Became Her Superpower in Writing! | Episode 145

In this episode of the Bookaholic podcast, Deidre interviews EK Wise about her journey of managing ADHD while authoring the book 'Keepers of the Rock' EK Wise discusses her late diagnosis of ADHD, her writing process, and the methods she employs to stay focused. The conversation delves into her background, inspirations from life experiences like her love for geology, and the creation of her novel's unique fantasy world where characters draw powers from earth's elements. The podcast also touches on the importance of recognizing and addressing learning differences, both in children and adults, and ends with a discussion on the future direction of her book series.

00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome

00:18 Discussing ADHD and Writing Process

01:07 ADHD Journey and Coping Strategies

04:35 Importance of Evaluation and Support

07:56 Introduction to 'Keepers of the Rock'

08:46 Geology Passion and Book Influence

10:22 Book Cover Design and Elements

12:01 Plot and Setting of 'Keepers of the Rock'

17:51 Author's Writing Journey and Inspirations

23:11 Series Continuation and Future Plans

25:33 Conclusion and Farewell

Listeners, give this episode a review on your favorite podcast platform!  You can also leave a review at my website or leave me a voicemail.  Subscribe to my newsletter Behind The Book.

CONNECT WITH BOOKAHOLIC // INSTAGRAM: @truebookaholic // FACEBOOK: @truebookaholic // PINTEREST: @truebookaholic // TIKTOK: @truebookaholic //

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EMAIL: support@book-a-holic.com

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Vietnam War & Past Lives: Inside Ellen Birkett Morris’s Gripping Tale! | Episode 144

Purchase Beware The Tall Grass here.

Exploring 'Beware the Tall Grass' with Ellen Birkett Morris: The Bookaholic Podcast In this episode of the Bookaholic Podcast, celebrated author Ellen Birkett Morris discusses her latest novel, 'Beware the Tall Grass.' Ellen delves into the book's intriguing dual narrative that intertwines a mother's love with a soldier's courage. Inspired by a real-life program that investigates children's past life memories, Ellen transformed a short story into a novel over an eight-year journey. She shares her process, from overcoming the challenge of expanding her writing from short stories to novels, to the crucial role a developmental editor played. Ellen also discusses the book's compelling themes, including the impact of the Vietnam War and intergenerational trauma, as well as her own evolving thoughts on reincarnation. The episode highlights the novel's accolades, including winning the Donald L. Jordan Prize and concludes with a glimpse into Ellen's future writing plans.

00:00 Welcome to the Bookaholic Podcast

00:27 Introducing 'Beware The Tall Grass'

02:04 The Inspiration Behind the Story

03:07 The Eight-Year Journey of Writing

05:57 Exploring Themes and Characters

08:03 Vietnam War and Personal Connections

11:29 Beliefs and Skepticism in the Story

17:45 Accolades and Recognition

20:22 Future Projects and Final Thoughts

Listeners, give this episode a review on your favorite podcast platform!  You can also leave a review at my website or leave me a voicemail. 

Subscribe to my newsletter Behind The Book.

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Political Followership: A Blueprint for Breaking Toxic Leadership with Ira Chaleff | Episode 143

In this episode of the Bookaholic Podcast, Deirdre welcomes Ira Chaleff, the author of 'To Stop A Tyrant: The Power of Political Followers to Make or Brake a Toxic Leader.' Ira discusses his inspiration for writing the book, which stems from personal family history and professional experiences. They delve into the critical role followers play in supporting or curbing leaders' power, emphasizing non-partisan approaches to maintaining an effective democracy. Highlights include discussions on the different circles of influence around political leaders, types of followers, and strategies for ordinary citizens to combat political tyranny. Ira also emphasizes the importance of understanding and engaging with opposing political views to foster a healthier political discourse.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

02:03 The Inspiration Behind the Book

02:34 Ira's Background and Early Influences

03:34 Insights from Washington, DC

05:35 The Role of Followers

07:24 The Five Circles of Influence

08:07 Circle One: The Confidants

13:50 Circle Two: The Elites

17:56 Circle Three: The Bureaucrats

22:24 Circle Four: The Activists

27:55 The Distortion of Power

29:03 Behaviors of Followers

29:51 Examples of Followers

33:07 The Courageous Follower

36:46 The Populace and Hopelessness

39:14 Historical Context and Political Dynamics

43:47 The Window of Political Action

54:38 Thanksgiving and Political Conversations

57:38 Conclusion and Book Promotion

Listeners, give this episode a review on your favorite podcast platform!  You can also leave a review at my website or leave me a voicemail.  Subscribe to my newsletter Behind The Book.

CONNECT WITH BOOKAHOLIC // INSTAGRAM: @truebookaholic // FACEBOOK: @truebookaholic // PINTEREST: @truebookaholic // TIKTOK: @truebookaholic //

LINKEDIN: Deirdre Pippins/deirdre-pippins-38338a214 /

EMAIL: support@book-a-holic.com

 

Why Wonder Matters: Bestselling Author Laura Munson Talks Creativity, Healing & Purpose | Episode 142

Children naturally ask big, beautiful questions about life—but somewhere along the journey to adulthood, many of us stop. In today’s episode, bestselling author Laura Munson joins us to talk about why that happens and how reclaiming our sense of wonder can transform our lives.

Laura’s new book, THE WILD WHY, blends memoir, insight, travel, and creative guidance to help readers reconnect with awe—and with themselves. Through travels from Montana to Morocco, Mexico to Tuscany, and Ireland to an ancient stone circle, Laura reveals the gifts of surrender, kindness, creativity, and curiosity.

What We Discuss:

• Why children ask deep questions—and why adults often silence them

• Laura’s personal evolution as a writer, seeker, and “wonderer”

• How wonder builds empathy and strengthens our connection to others

• What travel can teach us about surrendering to life’s mystery

• Why creativity belongs to ALL of us

• How to begin finding your own “wild why”

Listeners, give this episode a review on your favorite podcast platform!  You can also leave a review at my website or leave me a voicemail.  Subscribe to my newsletter Behind The Book.

CONNECT WITH BOOKAHOLIC // INSTAGRAM: @truebookaholic // FACEBOOK: @truebookaholic // PINTEREST: @truebookaholic // TIKTOK: @truebookaholic //

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EMAIL: support@book-a-holic.com

Laura Munson is the New York Times, USA Today, and international bestselling author of Willa’s Grove and This Is Not The Story You Think It Is. She’s the founder of Haven Writing Retreats and has been featured in Vanity Fair, Time, Newsweek, Elle, O Magazine, and more. She has appeared on Good Morning America, NPR, and global media outlets.
Learn more: https://lauramunson.com

Connect on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/lauramunsonauthor/

https://www.instagram.com/lauramunsonauthor/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-munson-91768026/

From Heart Surgery to Literary Success: Megan Michelle on Her Debut Novel 'Skylark' | Episode 141

PURCHASE Skylark here.

In this episode of the Bookaholic podcast, host welcomes debut author Megan Michelle to discuss her first novel, 'Skylark.' Megan shares her deeply personal journey of how a life-changing open heart surgery inspired the story of Rachel Riker, the first female Navy SEAL on a mission to dismantle the patriarchy and liberate women. The conversation delves into Megan's creative process, her challenges in balancing writing with her day job as a pharmaceutical project manager, and her experience moving from Sweden to Virginia after her surgery and divorce. Megan also provides insights into the ongoing series development and where listeners can find and support her work.

00:00 Welcome to the Bookaholic Podcast

00:26 The Origin of Skylark

01:00 A Life-Changing Surgery

01:45 The Birth of a Story

03:10 World-Building and Character Development

05:14 About the Skylark Series

08:04 Balancing Writing with a Day Job

08:58 A New Beginning

10:06 Where to Find Skylark

10:47 Closing Remarks

 

Podcaster may receive a small commission on any affiliate links which are no additional cost to you.

✨ Sisterhood, Witchcraft & Breaking Generational Curses with Liz Parker ✨| Episode 140

In this hauntingly heartfelt episode, Deirdre sits down with author Liz Parker to discuss her spellbinding new novel, The Witches of Honeysuckle House — a cozy, witchy tale of sisterhood, trauma, and transformation. Parker opens up about how her personal journey with witchcraft, herbalism, and healing from complex PTSD inspired her writing.

Together, they explore:

• The inspiration behind The Witches of Honeysuckle House

• How trauma and generational curses shape families and fiction

• What it means to be a practicing witch and herbalist today

• The power of found family, queer representation, and cozy magic

• Why books still open hearts and minds in divided times

Whether you love witchy fiction, cozy fantasies, or stories that speak truth through magic, this conversation will leave you spellbound — and deeply moved.

📚 Get your copy of The Witches of Honeysuckle House here.
🎥 Watch the full interview on YouTube @truebookaholic
💬 Continue the conversation on TikTok and Instagram @truebookaholic. 

#BookaholicPodcast #LizParker #TheWitchesOfHoneysuckleHouse #CozyFantasy #WitchyFiction #AuthorInterview #BookPodcast #TraumaHealing #QueerBooks #FoundFamily #GenerationalTrauma #WitchLit #HalloweenReads #PTSD

Writer of the Dark with Chris Kazularich | Episode 139

Join Deirdre Pippins as she talks to Chris Kazularich.  Chris is the author of the short story collection, Menagerie in the Dark, and the suspense horror novella, LAZARUS. He is also a member of The Authors Guild, AWP, and the Chicago Writers Association. In addition to writing and reading extensively, he enjoys hiking, playing video games, binge-watching a good show with his husband and daughter, and simply being a dad. He graduated from Purdue University and lives between Chicago, IL, and Naples, FL, or on the open road in their RV.

https://www.chriskauzlarich.com/

Pick up your copy of Menagerie in the Dark here.  

Pick up your copy of Lazarus here.

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