034 Josh Langley Interview

Finding Elara

#Lifestyle #Audio Drama #DL Nix #Worldbuilding #Writing

28:16

Gene Baur is the founder of Farm Sanctuary, a place of rescue, refuge, and adoption for hundreds of farm animals each year. Farm Sanctuary shelters enable visitors to connect with farm animals as emotional, intelligent individuals. Gene has also led campaigns to change laws about animal treatment and taken undercover photographs of farms, stockyards, and slaughterhouses, documenting deplorable conditions. His pictures and videos exposing factory farming cruelties have aired nationally and internationally, educating millions about the plight of modern farm animals, and his rescue work inspired an international farm sanctuary movement. Once called “the conscience of the food movement” by Time magazine, Gene walks the walk and talks the talk when it comes to food and animal rights. Jay and Gene discuss the political and cultural steps that will bring about the end of factory farming and a healthier approach to animals and food. Today's episode was produced by Tani Levitt and Mijon Zulu. To check out more episodes or to learn more about the show, you can visit our website Allaboutchangepodcast.com. If you like our show, spread the word, tell a friend or family member, or leave us a review on your favorite podcasting app. We really appreciate it. All About Change is produced by the Ruderman Family Foundation. Episode Chapters 0:00 Intro 1:05 The state of veganism 6:18 Cultural shifts around factory farming and veganism 14:58 Gene’s three paths of activism 17:44 Gene’s legislative successes 22:25 Accepting people where they are in their journeys 25:36 Thank you and goodbye For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/ Looking for more insights into the world of activism? Be sure to check out Jay’s brand new book, Find Your Fight , in which Jay teaches the next generation of activists and advocates how to step up and bring about lasting change. You can find Find Your Fight wherever you buy your books, and you can learn more about it at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.jayruderman.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ .…

6 years ago 38:29

MP3•Episode home

In this episode of the Finding Elara Episode Dianna interviews Josh Langley about his writing journey and mindful techniques that have pushed him along the way. With several awards and multiple books under his belt Josh has over ten years experience in the industry to share.

63 episodes

034 Josh Langley Interview

Finding Elara

published 6 years ago

MP3•Episode home

63 episodes

#Lifestyle #Audio Drama #DL Nix #Worldbuilding #Writing

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1
S02E25-063 The way to it is through it with Elizabeth Chaffin 33:57

3 days ago33:57

33:57

Guest Bio Elizabeth Chaffin is the creator of Bearded Rat Mysteries, through which she has written over 14 digital-download murder mystery games that have been sold around the world. She is also the author of two novels, Dead Man's Swamp and Newfangled Madness , published under the name E. M. Chaffin. Both books feature homeschooled protagonists and explore themes of friendship, courage, and the pursuit of truth. She lives in Oklahoma, USA with her own personal creatures Paisley and Tricki Woo. She enjoys eating mashed potatoes, adventuring to beautiful places, and taking vitamins. There was this one time she floated on the Yellow River on a raft made of inflated sheepskin, but that doesn’t have anything to do with this podcast. Links Contact Elizabeth Website: https://www.emchaffin.com/ Instagram for EM: https://www.instagram.com/emchaffinwrites/ Instagram for BRM: https://www.instagram.com/beardedratmysteries/ Facebook for EM: https://www.facebook.com/emchaffinwrites Facebook for BRM: https://www.facebook.com/beardedratmysteries Etsy: https://beardedratmysteries.etsy.com Things you can enter TREASURE CHEST GIVEAWAY From Poppy: 1 e-copy of Woken Kingdom and d1 e-copy of How to edit your own novel. From Elizabeth: Winners Choice of any 1 thing from her etsy store/a copy of her book. From BCP: A copy of one of the BSP Low/Medium Content Journal range Treasure chest Give-away 3: (open 30/07/2025 closes 8/10/2025) https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/treasure-chest Contact the Team Finding Elara Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/FindingElara Discord: https://discord.gg/Ap8EWpPn BCP Website: www.bcpcreative.com.au BCP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcp.creative/ BCP facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577758720164 Contact Dianna Website: www.dlnix.com Facebook: (DL Nix) https://www.facebook.com/Faepatriantales Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/findingelara/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@findingelarapodcast Sponsor Info Shadow Lair: https://ko-fi.com/findingelara Selva:s Ality: https://www.facebook.com/awakinningality Selina Shapland: https://empoweredwords.com.au/ Show Notes Her creatures are Dogs Talked about writing Bio challenges. Wrote first Murder Mystery when she was overseas Next one was for family. She found it rewarding and put it on her Etsy page. Had a rat for her 7th birthday and used to joke about having a beard. That’s what lead to the name Bearded rat mysteries. Has 4 brother, all are creatives and creative endeavours where encouraged. Being the 4th child she didn’t have to make any rules as a kid, she always found a way to adapt. She focuses on the reality of homeschooling in her books Celebrate every win along the way. It doesn’t have to be wild or fantastic. Using lists that she can mark off has been rewarding > Trello Good to have some sort of writing ritual – she always makes sure she has a drink and a candle. She plans on learning the Guitar – will have to check back in a couple of years. Favourite game she has created is murder at the masquerade You get what you put in to these games. When writing a series – write them all first. Quotes By Elizabeth Motivation: The way to it is through it. When it comes to writing focus on the Joy Fast Fire Questions Would you rather be a table or a chair? Table Are you a Dog or Cat person? Dog Who is your favourite Superhero? Spiderman If you were to have a magical power what would it be? Talking to animals The first thing you would do with a huge lotto win? Build or buy a castle Buffy Night Lord of the rings Her dad read it to her when she grew up but it really impacted and inspired her when she saw the first movie.…

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S02E24-062 Pink, Sun and Sleeping Beauty with Poppy Solomon 37:38

10 days ago37:38

37:38

Guest Bio Poppy Rose Solomon's novels are inspired by both her coastal childhood in Queensland and her love of escaping into magical worlds. Her debut series is four-book YA fantasy saga Woken Kingdom. She's also a professional editor and loves to help other authors cultivate their voice and tell their story. You'll often find her posting rosy-filtered pictures or yapping about publishing on social media. Find her at Poppy's Pages Editing .com or @PoppysVintageBooks. Links Contact Poppy Website: http://www.poppyspagesediting.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poppysvintagebooks/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@poppysvintagebooks Things you can enter TREASURE CHEST GIVEAWAY From Poppy: 1 e-copy of Woken Kingdom and d1 e-copy of How to edit your own novel. Treasure chest Give-away 3: (open 30/07/2025 closes 8/10/2025) https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/treasure-chest Contact the Team Finding Elara Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/FindingElara Discord: https://discord.gg/Ap8EWpPn BCP Website: www.bcpcreative.com.au BCP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcp.creative/ BCP facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577758720164 Contact Dianna Website: www.dlnix.com Facebook: (DL Nix) https://www.facebook.com/Faepatriantales Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/findingelara/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@findingelarapodcast Sponsor Info Shadow Lair: https://ko-fi.com/findingelara Empowered Words: https://empoweredwords.com.au/ Link for 70s Novella series: https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/living-in-the-70s Show Notes Worldbuilding early in the story. Take a long time Hand draw maps and gets artist friend Haylee Buswell to digitise. (@h.bpencil) Props to contemporary writers. Chose not to name Woken Kingdom world. 6 territories in WK world. Would bring love interest from book 2 into our world. Quotes By Poppy Practice, Love your craft Fast Fire Questions What’s you favourite Colour? Pink Would you rather draw a Sun or a Moon? Sun Would you prefer to live near the beach or a river? Beach Dream Holiday Destination? New York Favourite Fairy Tale? Sleeping Beauty Linking to Elara DL: Can you tell me Self-Editing milestones to implement rewards and increase motivation? Trust Future you. Julz: How do you treat religion? Do you go monotheistic or multiple? Doesn’t touch religion in the woken kingdom series but recommends you do solid research and approach it respectfully. Izzy: How do you find something unique when everything has already been done before? How do you draw inspirations instead of copying an idea because there is a fine line between drawing inspirations and copying. It is hard! Develop your voice and confidence. Focus on your craft, Practice. Love your thing and the doubt will not be there because it will be uniquely you.…

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S02E23-061 Table, Cat and Scarlet Witch with Poppy Solomon 41:17

17 days ago41:17

41:17

Guest Bio Poppy Rose Solomon's novels are inspired by both her coastal childhood in Queensland and her love of escaping into magical worlds. Her debut series is four-book YA fantasy saga Woken Kingdom. She's also a professional editor and loves to help other authors cultivate their voice and tell their story. You'll often find her posting rosy-filtered pictures or yapping about publishing on social media. Find her at Poppy's Pages Editing .com or @PoppysVintageBooks. Links Contact Poppy Website: http://www.poppyspagesediting.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poppysvintagebooks/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@poppysvintagebooks Things you can enter TREASURE CHEST GIVEAWAY From Poppy: 1 e-copy of Woken Kingdom and d1 e-copy of How to edit your own novel. Treasure chest Give-away 3: (open 30/07/2025 closes 8/10/2025) https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/treasure-chest Contact the Team Finding Elara Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/FindingElara Discord: https://discord.gg/Ap8EWpPn BCP Website: www.bcpcreative.com.au BCP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcp.creative/ BCP facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577758720164 Contact Dianna Website: www.dlnix.com Facebook: (DL Nix) https://www.facebook.com/Faepatriantales Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/findingelara/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@findingelarapodcast Sponsor Info Shadow Lair: https://ko-fi.com/findingelara Show Notes ADHD and Perfectionist – found out through coping strategies Sees things from a different perspective. Part of who she is as a creative. Not good with Bosses – Great in charge. Mixed background NZ, AU, UK. English countryside provided a rich foundation for worldbuilding. Mindfulness: Grounding in your body. Japan Trip – Temples unreal. Zen = garden or beach. Self pubbed and also queried. Different series had different expectations. As authors you have to start on the next one. Tip: Need willingness to accept feedback. Motivation is hard: be kind to yourself. Don’t force motivation. Big plans for the future. Quotes By Poppy Mindfulness: Aiming for a sense of peace amongst the Chaos. Put your ego aside and make sure you’re in a space where you can grow You think there are a 100 things to do and there are 1000 Fast Fire Questions Would you rather be a table or a chair? Table Are you a Dog or Cat person? Cat Who is your favourite Superhero? Scarlet Witch If you were to have a magical Power what would it be? Super Speed The first thing you would do with a huge lotto win? Really big house overlooking the ocean Buffy Night Sleeping Beauty Ballet Started with the love of Classic Barbie movies that came out in the 2000’s Love the ballet and sleeping beauty inspired her woken kingdom series. Loves the dance and the aesthetics. The romance and magic blew her mind!…

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S02E22-060 Looting the Treasure Chest 20:59

23 days ago20:59

20:59

Dianna and Julz meet up again to reflect on the last 5 guests, favourite episodes in the last set and talk about the treasure chest. Discuss why the schedule is changing to weekly. Dianna continues on with the winners draw and close. Massive thank you to all of our sponsors Book reality and the supporters in the shadow lair Sponsor Info Book Reality https://bookreality.com/ Shadow Lair: https://ko-fi.com/findingelara Contact the Team Finding Elara Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/FindingElara Discord : https://discord.gg/Ap8EWpPn BCP Website: www.bcpcreative.com.au BCP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcp.creative/ BCP facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577758720164 Contact JA Duxbury Facebook Author Page www.facebook.com/jaduxbury1 Facebook Group J A Duxbury's Weird Words: www.facebook.com/groups/3357069671029525 LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/julie-duxbury-0462153b/ Website: www.jaduxbury.com/ Grow Write: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2561860470756578 Contact Dianna Website: www.dlnix.com Facebook: (DL Nix) https://www.facebook.com/Faepatriantales Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/findingelara/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@findingelarapodcast…

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S02E21-059 There are no set rules with Ryan Null 34:21

4 weeks ago34:21

34:21

Guest Bio I was born and raised in Indiana. I have three boys. My wife and I have been married for 15 years in August. I love grilling, writing, and working outside. I have six brothers and sisters. I love exploring the country and finding new spots. I have been to a few places. I have a trip planned to London this year in October. I will be in Canada multiple times next year and in India for two weeks. I am part of the prestigious program Author Allstar, for which I will be on live T.V. at the ceremony dinner in December. I am the Vice President of the Midwest Writers Guild Evansville, Indiana. I have over 300 books planned for my immersive series and will dive back into it once the map is complete for my spicy romantasy series. I have also won the International Impact Award in Teen Fantasy. Links Contact Ryan Null Website: www.authorryannull.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ryannullofficial ; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanjohnnull/ ; YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RyanJohnNull TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theflarechronicles Things you can enter TREASURE CHEST GIVEAWAY From Ryan Null: A copy of his books. From Sue-Ellen: Readers choice from her extensive list of books. From Selina: Tarot reading for character development on zoom. From Angela: 2x Ebooks for 2 winners (both books each) Elanor and the Song of the Bard and The golden dragon awakens. From Jessie: Access to her Book Blurb Magic Course. From BCP:2 x $25 Voucher From BCP: 1 BCP journal of your choice Treasure chest Give-away 2: (open 17/06/2025 closes 19/07/2025) https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/treasure-chest Otherworldly emergence Novella: (Open 05/07/2025 Closes 27/07/2025) https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/emergence Contact the Team Finding Elara Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/FindingElara Discord : https://discord.gg/Ap8EWpPn BCP Website: www.bcpcreative.com.au BCP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcp.creative/ BCP facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577758720164 Contact Dianna Website: www.dlnix.com Facebook: (DL Nix) https://www.facebook.com/Faepatriantales Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/findingelara/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@findingelarapodcast Sponsor Info Book Reality https://bookreality.com/ Shadow Lair: https://ko-fi.com/findingelara Show Notes Worldbuilding is to make some thing unique and original You should be able to look at a map and see different aspects that make it more immersive. Worldbuilding and Map building are similar Ryan makes the Map after draft 1 Azerin means Powerful He loves a good cliffhanger Lets the story flow with itself so that it fits the story. There are a lot of real life experiences in the flare chronicles. Would like to bring his dragon race into the real world Want to find opportunities to bring a deeper meaning into the maps and worlds Quotes By Ryan Plotting: I do Kind of have a rough vision of what I want in the series but that doesn’t mean when I write that rough vision on the outline that it will follow that Story Flow: There are no set rules saying you have to put anything in a certain location Fast Fire Questions What is your favourite Colour? Red What is your favourite thing to draw Sun or Moon? Moon Would you prefer to live near a Beach or River? Beach What is your dream Holiday destination? Scotland or Ireland What is your favourite Fairytale? Beauty and The Beast Linking to Elara Izzy - Q: What made you switch to romantasy instead of continuing with Fantasy? A:Reader engagement poll. Was the highest votes. Selva - Q: What inspires you to create your fantasy? Do you meditate to help visualise it? A: Doesn’t Meditate but does close his eyes while he is thinking in his head. Always loves Fantasy. Howhe see’s how the world can be Steph - Q: How do you decide what kind of character/races he includes and why? Is there reasoning behind those chosen and those left out? A: It is on the character flow. Not set names or races in the beginning. Just writes it how it flows. Sometimes has a rough vision. Shaun - Q: Can you put a crazy ginger that likes to bang in his next book? A: Never been asked that before so sure. Garry - Q: So what is your next step in world domination? A: Continue to go to festivals pitch to movie producers and game designers and international tours. Translate the book into different languages and continue to publish more books. Joel - Q: I hear Ryan you are entering a different genre with your writing. Some say it is about the chase, how soon and how often do you think you should bring the sauce? A: It really depends on how the story flows. There are no rules. There needs to be a purpose and a reason to move the story forward. Dianna - Q: How do you find a balance between your hectic schedule and writing. A: No good with Balance but have the support of a loving family and an amazing wife.…

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S02E20-058 Humbling opportunities with Ryan Null 42:24

5 weeks ago42:24

42:24

Guest Bio I was born and raised in Indiana. I have three boys. My wife and I have been married for 15 years in August. I love grilling, writing, and working outside. I have six brothers and sisters. I love exploring the country and finding new spots. I have been to a few places. I have a trip planned to London this year in October. I will be in Canada multiple times next year and in India for two weeks. I am part of the prestigious program Author Allstar, for which I will be on live T.V. at the ceremony dinner in December. I am the Vice President of the Midwest Writers Guild Evansville, Indiana. I have over 300 books planned for my immersive series and will dive back into it once the map is complete for my spicy romantasy series. I have also won the International Impact Award in Teen Fantasy. Links Contact Ryan Null Website: www.authorryannull.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ryannullofficial ; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanjohnnull/ ; YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RyanJohnNull TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theflarechronicles Things you can enter TREASURE CHEST GIVEAWAY From Ryan Null: A copy of his books. From Sue-Ellen: Readers choice from her extensive list of books. From Selina: Tarot reading for character development on zoom. From Angela: 2x Ebooks for 2 winners (both books each) Elanor and the Song of the Bard and The golden dragon awakens. From Jessie: Access to her Book Blurb Magic Course. From BCP:2 x $25 Voucher From BCP: 1 BCP journal of your choice Treasure chest Give-away 2: (open 17/06/2025 closes 19/07/2025) https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/treasure-chest Otherworldly emergence Novella: (Open 05/07/2025 Closes 27/07/2025) https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/emergence Contact the Team Finding Elara Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/FindingElara Discord : https://discord.gg/Ap8EWpPn BCP Website: www.bcpcreative.com.au BCP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcp.creative/ BCP facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577758720164 Contact Dianna Website: www.dlnix.com Facebook: (DL Nix) https://www.facebook.com/Faepatriantales Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/findingelara/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@findingelarapodcast Sponsor Info Book Reality https://bookreality.com/ Shadow Lair: https://ko-fi.com/findingelara Show Notes Works best at night Inspired by 8th Grade teacher. Continued from there Published last year and republishing this year through a publisher Created merch to compliments the books through local lady Created all the maps himself. NORTIS Loves hearing the history Diversity and culture isn’t a one shoe fits all Colour coded to add extra layers on the maps Devoted himself to his books and the series. Wants to remain humble while gaining celebrity. Pay it forward and give back Been known to work until he drops. Feels like his purpose is like a fire burning inside of him. Feels like he can’t stop until it’s done. Going on an international tour next year. Writing Tip: Connect with other authors and build a community. Until you know the ropes it is hard! Good to have each others back. Sometimes people need to go through fire to learn. You have to be able to grow so you can get better. Did a social media reader engagement poll and his followers wanted an adult fiction so he went for it. The new Spicy romantasy had no restrictions. Possibilities are endless Being an author really is a small business. Writing is only 25% Quotes By Ryan Writing: It’s not really work because I enjoy it. You’ll learn different aspects of writing sometimes just by talking to other writers. Fast Fire Questions Would you rather be a table or a chair? Chair Are you a dog person or cat person? Dog Who is your favourite superhero? Spiderman If you were to have a magical power what would it be? Time Teleportation What is the first think you would do with a huge lotto win? Set Family up and Donate. Buffy Night Underworld Movie Series Loves the Worldbuilding and the fantasy vibes. Interactions between the Lycans and the vampires. He loves the history and how it played out in the series. The build upon eachother but they are all unique in their own right.…

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S02E19-057 Feeling comfortable in the space with Sue-Ellen Pashley 30:13

5 weeks ago30:13

30:13

A writer of a copious amount of words (because if they didn’t come out, she’s sure her head would explode), Sue-Ellen writes everything from picture books to young adult and adult fantasies. A best-selling, internationally published author, she gets a real thrill out of not being able to read a story she’s written when it’s translated to another language. Sue-Ellen was writing stories before she could actually write, reading the scribbles out to her parents, but has definitely progressed from this early start! An eternal optimist, she enjoys making things difficult for her protagonists, but loves a satisfying ending. She enjoys running workshops on writing and all things authory at schools and conferences and sometimes surprises herself with how much she now enjoys public speaking. In her other life, she lives in Central Queensland with her family, a bordoodle called Bella and a snake called Slide. She loves quirky shoes, dark chocolate and a good tea. Links Contact Sue-Ellen Website: www.sueellenpashley.com.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sueellenpashleyauthor/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sueellenpashleyauthor Things you can enter WHATS IN THE CHEST From Sue-Ellen: Readers choice from her extensive list of books. From Selina: Tarot reading for character development on zoom. From Angela: 2x Ebooks for 2 winners (both books each) Elanor and the Song of the Bard and The golden dragon awakens. From Jessie: Access to her Book Blurb Magic Course. From BCP:2 x $25 Voucher From BCP: 1 BCP journal of your choice Treasure chest Give-away 2: (open 17/06/2025 closes 19/07/2025) https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/treasure-chest Otherworldly emergence Novella: (Open 05/07/2025 Closes 27/07/2025) https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/emergence Contact the Team Finding Elara Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/FindingElara Discord : https://discord.gg/Ap8EWpPn BCP Website: www.bcpcreative.com.au BCP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcp.creative/ BCP facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577758720164 Contact Dianna Website: www.dlnix.com Facebook: (DL Nix) https://www.facebook.com/Faepatriantales Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/findingelara/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@findingelarapodcast Sponsor Info Book Reality https://bookreality.com/ Shadow Lair: https://ko-fi.com/findingelara Show Notes Worldbuilding is pivotal in every story. The World is a character in itself. She still teaches the worldbuilding course but has many more Starts with Characters then layers in the world and other aspects Shocking at side quests. Developing lore depends on the story. Some stories need more than others. There is some reality in the way we see the world in stories. Play: Adaline black entering her office. Horror Story, Contemporaty romance (Aged up), Sci-fi Space, 10 years later. Readers will always pick up if you got the rules wrong. Quotes By Sue-Ellen If we are going to be true to ourselves I think there is always parts of ourselves that we put into out characters sometimes. It’s important that there are aspects of the world that mean to make it harder for your characters; If everything about the world makes it easier for them then you’ve lost some really important plot points that you can bring into it. Fast Fire Questions What is your favourite Colour? Green What is your favourite thing to draw Sun or Moon? Moon Would you prefer to live near a Beach or River? Beech What is your dream Holiday destination? Antartica What is your favourite Fairytale? Cinderella Linking to Elara Garry Q: Which genre do they enjoy writing in or do they enjoy every one of them? A: All of them. Ryan How old is the bordoodle? 6 What was her favourite book she has read or written? All of them. Depending on circumstances. Always recommends Anne Maccaffrey. Bride by Alli Hazelwood for last year. Selina Q: What tips or advice do you have for writers you have an idea for a children’s picture book, but don’t know where to start creating it? For example they may have ideas and have written a rough draft, but don’t know how to turn it into a picture book. A: Read other children’s picture books to understand the rhythm. Understand that the illustrator will be doing half. Start to go to conferences and get feedback. Q: What do kids love most about your stories when it comes to world building? A: Depends on the age of the kids. Young kids like being creative and older kids connect with the connections with their own world. Kids need to see themselves in it to be relatable. Q I love that you have a snake as a companion, does the snake inspire any of your stories or characters? And what kind of snake is it? A: Spotted python. Have their own personality.…

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S02E18-056 Staying true to your voice with Sue-Ellen Pashley 44:45

6 weeks ago44:45

44:45

A writer of a copious amount of words (because if they didn’t come out, she’s sure her head would explode), Sue-Ellen writes everything from picture books to young adult and adult fantasies. A best-selling, internationally published author, she gets a real thrill out of not being able to read a story she’s written when it’s translated to another language. Sue-Ellen was writing stories before she could actually write, reading the scribbles out to her parents, but has definitely progressed from this early start! An eternal optimist, she enjoys making things difficult for her protagonists, but loves a satisfying ending. She enjoys running workshops on writing and all things authory at schools and conferences and sometimes surprises herself with how much she now enjoys public speaking. In her other life, she lives in Central Queensland with her family, a bordoodle called Bella and a snake called Slide. She loves quirky shoes, dark chocolate and a good tea. Links Contact Sue-Ellen Website: www.sueellenpashley.com.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sueellenpashleyauthor/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sueellenpashleyauthor Things you can enter WHATS IN THE CHEST From Sue-Ellen: Readers choice from her extensive list of books. From Selina: Tarot reading for character development on zoom. From Angela: 2x Ebooks for 2 winners (both books each) Elanor and the Song of the Bard and The golden dragon awakens. From Jessie: Access to her Book Blurb Magic Course. From BCP:2 x $25 Voucher From BCP: 1 BCP journal of your choice Treasure chest Give-away 2: (open 17/06/2025 closes 19/07/2025) https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/treasure-chest Otherworldly emergence Novella: (Open 05/07/2025 Closes 27/07/2025) https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/emergence Contact the Team Finding Elara Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/FindingElara Discord : https://discord.gg/Ap8EWpPn BCP Website: www.bcpcreative.com.au BCP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcp.creative/ BCP facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577758720164 Contact Dianna Website: www.dlnix.com Facebook: (DL Nix) https://www.facebook.com/Faepatriantales Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/findingelara/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@findingelarapodcast Sponsor Info Book Reality https://bookreality.com/ Shadow Lair: https://ko-fi.com/findingelara Show Notes Only had 2 books last meeting in episode 27 Still enjoying being in the writing scene Working as a Judge for the CYA in QLD Always written even before it was legible. Made the mindset shift around 10 years ago to take writing seriously Used to fit in between the kids when they were young but now mostly dedicated the weekends to her writing. Likes writing in both the make and female character point of view Mindfulness falls into 2 parts Recognising feelings and putting a name to them. Knowing what that mean Also being in the moment when you are there. Use the senses Most stories are character driven. Mix between pantser and plotter Marketing is not her forte. Prefer to be writing Positive comparisons about trad and self pub journey Benefit in understanding the cycles of stories with publishers. Strong connections in the author world always helpful Need to have realistic expectations about what the book will be. Know where your strengths are and work to them Needs her writing so be flexible. Stay true to your writing voice and listen to the characters. Your book with resonate with different people differently Her self branding is just one more chapter. Stay motivated through milestones. Edits the stories sometimes up to 8 times before sending to an editor. Relaxation at the end of the day normally involves water. The Science of AWE – seeing the greater scope of the world. Really important to share with people you trust at first. Quotes By Sue-Ellen I have come to the conclusion that it is really important that you write in a way that suits you. That we can’t compare ourselves to other writers because if we are doing that we’re gonna feel like we are not doing well enough and yet that strategy may not be a fit for us. Avoid the comparison as much as possible Fast Fire Questions Would you rather be a table or a chair? Chair Are you a dog person or cat person? Dog Who is your favourite superhero? Ironman If you were to have a magical power what would it be? Flight What is the first think you would do with a huge lotto win? Share with Close Friends Buffy Night Ann Mccaffrey Dragon Riders Series Highly recommend because of masterful worldbuilding, complex and interesting character. Should start with Dragon Riders of Pern.…

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S02E17-055 Building in Layers with Selina Shapland 33:16

6 weeks ago33:16

33:16

Guest Bio Selina Shapland is a certified fiction book coach who uses her developmental editing knowledge and skills to guide aspiring authors through the shadows of storytelling. She has studied fiction since 2008, and she writes paranormal mysteries, romance and horror too. Angels, demons, ghosts, psychics, spirits, vampires, witches, werewolves and monsters populate her stories. Gods and Goddesses grace her fiction pages and she loves sprinkling magic throughout her fictional worlds. The worlds Selina creates often intersect with our world, but there's always something lurking on the other side of the veil to be discovered by her lead characters. In Selina’s writing world, the paranormal is normal, mysteries plague her latest work in progress, and sweet to medium heat romance connects enemies to lovers, friends to lovers, and old crushes with new levels of love with a dash of spice. She lives in Holbrook NSW with her leading man. She’s a poodle mumma, a cat servant and an art dabbler. Links Contact Selina Website: https://empoweredwords.com.au Email: selina@empoweredwords.com.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/selinashapland_dev_editor Substack: https://empoweredwordsfictioncoach.substack.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/selina.shapland.empowered.words Things you can enter WHATS IN THE CHEST From Selina: Tarot reading for character development on zoom. From Angela: 2x Ebooks for 2 winners (both books each) Elanor and the Song of the Bard and The golden dragon awakens. From Jessie: Access to her Book Blurb Magic Course. From BCP:2 x $25 Voucher Treasure chest Give-away 2: (open 17/06/2025 closes 19/07/2025) https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/treasure-chest Otherworldly emergence Novella: (Open 05/07/2025 Closes 27/07/2025) https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/emergence Contact the Team Finding Elara Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/FindingElara Discord : https://discord.gg/Ap8EWpPn BCP Website: www.bcpcreative.com.au BCP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcp.creative/ BCP Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bcpcreative Contact Dianna Website: www.dlnix.com Facebook: (DL Nix) https://www.facebook.com/Faepatriantales Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/findingelara/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@findingelarapodcast Sponsor Info Book Reality https://bookreality.com/ Shadow Lair: https://ko-fi.com/findingelara Show Notes World Building: What is the universe the character is in. Starts with the character first and their history. Writing contemporary – still need to worldbuild. Worldbuilding is layered Play: Sookie entering her office Talked about the trauma you need to give your characters. Has a soft spot for parallel world stories. Pre-Plots her stories Explores different genres depending on her mood. Likes to have pictures of settings for inspiration. Quotes By Selina Every Character I write starts out with a little bit of me The world needs to serve the story Fast Fire Questions What is your favourite Colour? Red What is your favourite thing to draw Sun or Moon? Moon Would you prefer to live near a Beach or River? Beach What is your dream Holiday destination? Scotland What is your favourite Fairytale? The ugly Duckling Linking to Elara Garry: Can a zombie and a ghost come from the same person? Yes, she thinks they could. Because if the person at the time of passing the soul separated from their physical form, so you would be able to have the ghost and then body is reanimated then it could definitely be a zombie. Ari : What’s you’re go to advice when people are stuck in the shadows? Depends on the scenario. Recommends reaching out to a coach and having that conversation. Check you haven’t written yourself into a corner by writing a tangent. Tangents are often where you end up in the shadows. Ari: What’s your favourite monster and Why? Vampires. Because they are romantic and dangerous. Complex characters. Joel: How much of your storyline is dictated by the lore of the creatures? Depends on the character position in the story. If it is a main character it is super important. DL: What is your favourite otherworldly emergence storyline? Fan of Harry Potter. Loving the Dark Gothic at the moment, but enjoys a mix of different Genres.…

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S02E16-054 Getting in the flow with Selina Shapland 34:54

7 weeks ago34:54

34:54

Guest Bio Selina Shapland is a certified fiction book coach who uses her developmental editing knowledge and skills to guide aspiring authors through the shadows of storytelling. She has studied fiction since 2008, and she writes paranormal mysteries, romance and horror too. Angels, demons, ghosts, psychics, spirits, vampires, witches, werewolves and monsters populate her stories. Gods and Goddesses grace her fiction pages and she loves sprinkling magic throughout her fictional worlds. The worlds Selina creates often intersect with our world, but there's always something lurking on the other side of the veil to be discovered by her lead characters. In Selina’s writing world, the paranormal is normal, mysteries plague her latest work in progress, and sweet to medium heat romance connects enemies to lovers, friends to lovers, and old crushes with new levels of love with a dash of spice. She lives in Holbrook NSW with her leading man. She’s a poodle mumma, a cat servant and an art dabbler. Links Contact Selina Website: https://empoweredwords.com.au Email: selina@empoweredwords.com.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/selinashapland_dev_editor Substack: https://empoweredwordsfictioncoach.substack.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/selina.shapland.empowered.words Things you can enter WHATS IN THE CHEST From Selina: Tarot reading for character development on zoom. From Angela: 2x Ebooks for 2 winners (both books each) Elanor and the Song of the Bard and The golden dragon awakens. From Jessie: Access to her Book Blurb Magic Course. From BCP:2 x $25 Voucher Treasure chest Give-away 2: (open 17/06/2025 closes 19/07/2025) https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/treasure-chest Otherworldly emergence Novella: (Open 05/07/2025 Closes 07/07/2025) https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/emergence Contact the Team Finding Elara Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/FindingElara Discord : https://discord.gg/Ap8EWpPn BCP Website: www.bcpcreative.com.au BCP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcp.creative/ BCP Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bcpcreative Contact Dianna Website: www.dlnix.com Facebook: (DL Nix) https://www.facebook.com/Faepatriantales Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/findingelara/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@findingelarapodcast Sponsor Info Book Reality https://bookreality.com/ Shadow Lair: https://ko-fi.com/findingelara Show Notes\ 20 years of experience writing fiction Studied how to write and how to coach others. Developmental Editor and book coach for empowered words Romance Writers Australia inspires romantic elements Loves the research Mindfulness: Getting in the moment Connecting with the earth, drawing on the elements. Overwhelm: Has notebook with checklist. Writes problems on paper and puts it a rock salt jar. Tip: be kind to yourself. Have a structure that works for you. Writing sprints with Buddies Look at the structure before you look at the polishing of the words. To stay Motivated: Hire Book coaches. Drawing you need to be fully present in the moment. Helps with Mindfulness She is still finding herself as a writer. Quotes By Selina Writers need to know themselves There’s nothing wasted in the writing journey as far as stories are concerned Fast Fire Questions Would you rather be a table or a chair? Chair Are you a dog person or cat person? Dog Who is your favourite superhero? Wonderwoman If you were to have a magical power what would it be? Telepathy What is the first think you would do with a huge lotto win? Stop working and write full time then travel to New Zealand Buffy Night Tru Blood – Books and TV Series Selina was inspired about the parallel world and how they made vampires mainstream. Supernatural beings with real life problems.…

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S02E15-053 Retelling old Myths With Angela Hughes 39:05

7 weeks ago39:05

39:05

Guest Bio Historical & Paranormal fantasy author Angela R. Hughes believes in the power of storytelling. Her ambition to write stories that grip and inspire readers has led her to study Celtic Mythology and live for a time in Ireland, where she fell in love with the history and landscapes of the ‘Emerald Isle,’ Wales, Scotland and England. When she isn’t traveling or researching Arthurian legend, she is chatting with fellow fantasy nerds over coffee or spending time with her family at home in Waco, Texas. Links Contact Angela Website: https://angelarhughes.com Instagram: @angela.r.hughes TikTok: @Angela.r.hughes Things you can enter WHATS IN THE CHEST From Angela: 2x Ebooks for 2 winners (both books each) Elanor and the Song of the Bard and The golden dragon awakens. From Jessie: Access to her Book Blurb Magic Course. From BCP: $25 Voucher Treasure chest Give-away 2: (open 17/06/2025 closes 19/07/2025) https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/treasure-chest Otherworldly emergence Novella: (Open 05/07/2025 Closes 07/07/2025) https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/emergence Contact the Team Finding Elara Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/FindingElara Discord : https://discord.gg/Ap8EWpPn BCP Website: www.bcpcreative.com.au BCP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcp.creative/ BCP Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bcpcreative Contact Dianna Website: www.dlnix.com Facebook: (DL Nix) https://www.facebook.com/Faepatriantales Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/findingelara/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@findingelarapodcast Sponsor Info Book Reality https://bookreality.com/ Shadow Lair: https://ko-fi.com/findingelara Show Notes Arthurian Legend is far older than the Sword in the stone. Worldbuilding in a historical setting. Loves retelling old myths. Inspired by Merlin and his magic. Sees Arthur as a noble person you would aspire to be real. Character play: Chose Merlin. He visited her office played around in a contemporary romance and an action scenario. Decided on location for new story after her visit to Ireland. Solid plotter when writing. Likes to have all the knowledge in advance where possible. 100% of self in characters. They are all a part of her yet none are her. Writing tip: make sure you are healed before you plunder the darker feelings. Quotes By Angela On the other side of Hopelesness there is hope. You need to be healed to plunder the darkness Every story that I write changes me. You can’t go back to who you were when the process began. If my books are changing me then they might have the opportunity to change other people. Fast Fire Questions What is your favourite Colour? Blue What is your favourite thing to draw Sun or Moon? Sun Would you prefer to live near a Beach or River? River What is your dream Holiday destination? Always Ireland but South of france What is your favourite Fairytale? Beauty and the Beast. Finding Elara From Selina: What is it about the Arthurian legend that inspires your world building and fiction? Morgan Le Fae is often portrayed as manipulative and evil but what do you think about her part in Arthurian legend? There was The BBC TV show Merlin that has aspect of Honour, Knights, Valour, Sacrifice, Brotherhood … The Arthurian legends have these sort of things in spades. The long history and and mystique was inspiring but she didn’t like the ending. In her stories she wanted to fix it. Wanted to know what happened next. The Morgana Le Fae Character in her stories is also a manipulative character and plays an interesting role in her new book. Garry: Do you research your creatures or are they all free style or do you then to flavour your creatures to a certain land of mythology? LOTS OF RESEARCH. Celtic Monsters, Mythological Creatures, Superstitions, real monsters and then give them a little twist. Steph: What was the pivotal point that lead her down the path of Celtic Mythology? Was it always an interest, or did it crop up after an event/ experience or the like? Got a book about ald Celtic saints and within the stories there were supernatural and magical elements that made her think, what if they were real. She loved other mythologies but staying ing Ireland and seeing the celtic landscape and walking through mythical places cemented it in her mind. Donna: Have you thought about Nessy and the stories that surround the Myth. Some from superstitions. Sightings. Paranormal and supernatural stories. What if they do exist. There are so many mysteries, maybe only the select few can see? Lynn: Has she written much about unicorns? Surely as the national animal of Scotland she would have come across a few. Favourite Movie was last unicorn while growing up. Was going to have unicorn in the title of her book! DL: Do you think the population in such a small landmass hs been a good breeding ground for all the myths and legends? There have been many conquorers over history and now there are many races. The ownership of different tales has long been contested, but there a similarities that flow through all mythologies, the floods the giants… makes one wonder. The Celtic ones in particular are rich and raw.…

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S02E14-052 Create Time to Write with Angela Hughes 40:02

8 weeks ago40:02

40:02

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S02E13-051 Crazy Plant Lady Writes Blurbs with Jessie Cunniffe 35:32

8 weeks ago35:32

35:32

Guest Bio Jessie Cunniffe* is a professional blurb writer and book blurb coach from Sydney, Australia. A passionate advocate of the indie author community, Jessie has dedicated herself to taking the pain out of blurb-writing with her custom blurb services and two signature courses: Book Blurb Magic and The Spicy Blurb Playbook. When she’s not writing or dreaming up the next BBM product, Jessie can be found journaling, exploring new ocean pools, and playing her guitar. On the occasion that Jessie manages to snatch some reading time, she’s probably buried in P. G. Wodehouse or Agatha Christie. Links Contact Jessie FREE blurb cheatsheet: anatomyofabookblurb.com Website: www.bookblurbmagic.com Email: jessie@bookblurbmagic.com Instagram: @bookblurbmagic Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bookblurbmagic Things you can enter WHATS IN THE CHEST From Jessie: Access to her Book Blurb Magic Course. From BCP: $25 Voucher Treasure chest Give-away 2: (open 17/06/2025 closes 19/07/2025) https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/treasure-chest Otherworldly emergence Novella: (Open 05/07/2025 Closes 07/07/2025) https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/emergence Contact the Team Finding Elara Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/FindingElara Discord : https://discord.gg/Ap8EWpPn BCP Website: www.bcpcreative.com.au BCP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcp.creative/ BCP Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bcpcreative Contact Dianna Website: www.dlnix.com Facebook: (DL Nix) https://www.facebook.com/Faepatriantales Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/findingelara/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@findingelarapodcast Sponsor Info Book Reality https://bookreality.com/ Shadow Lair: https://ko-fi.com/findingelara Show Notes · Worldbuilding is her Brand – daily emails to subscribers. · Emails Sent 5 days a week. · Met Readers overseas and had cuppa, easy and welcoming. · Conscious about ROI for time writing · Side quests can pay off. · Hubby = Hype Coach Around all the Time. · Storytelling is the best way to teach information · Daily Emails are good as commitment · Very personal business so aligns with goals easily Quotes By Jessie I love my emails because I get to hang out with my subscribers Sometimes these side quests really pay off Fast Fire Questions 1. What is your favourite Colour? Blue 2. What is your favourite thing to draw Sun or Moon? Sun 3. Would you prefer to live near a Beach or River? Beach 4. What is your dream Holiday destination? Anywhere with a Beach 5. What is your favourite Fairytale? Sleeping Beauty Linking to Elara 1. There is an argument in some writing circles that you should write a blurb as a milestone for your story, as what point do you think you can write a blurb? Dianna a. Can write different versions of the blurb and is you have one at the start then you will have to revisit it. To go to here for the final blurb the story needs to be done. Final stages of Line editing. Can’t rais stakes if you don’t know what they are. 2. What Key aspects do you want in a basic Blurb. a. Inciting Incident. The whole reason to read. The Moment of no return. A couple of plot points and rais the stakes. Hint about choice at the end. 3. How to get people interested without spoilers – Garry a. Make the Inciting incident the Star, it isn’t spoilers. Plot points that make readers ask questions. so they are excited and curious. 4. What’s the best hook to put in a book blurb? That would its features include? – Julz a. No best hook. Just one that gets readers excited about reading the rest of the blurb. Like a headline. No names or characters. Just want to set the atmosphere. Us an element of contrast, juxtaposition. Element of Surprise. Hooks are creative and varied, there is no word count but a loose guideline of 15 words. There are several ways to go about it.…

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S02E12-050 Intentional Creative Rest with Jessie Cunniffe 40:11

9 weeks ago40:11

40:11

Guest Bio Jessie Cunniffe* is a professional blurb writer and book blurb coach from Sydney, Australia. A passionate advocate of the indie author community, Jessie has dedicated herself to taking the pain out of blurb-writing with her custom blurb services and two signature courses: Book Blurb Magic and The Spicy Blurb Playbook. When she’s not writing or dreaming up the next BBM product, Jessie can be found journaling, exploring new ocean pools, and playing her guitar. On the occasion that Jessie manages to snatch some reading time, she’s probably buried in P. G. Wodehouse or Agatha Christie. Links Contact Jessie FREE blurb cheatsheet: anatomyofabookblurb.com Website: www.bookblurbmagic.com Email: jessie@bookblurbmagic.com Instagram: @bookblurbmagic Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bookblurbmagic Things you can enter WHATS IN THE CHEST From Jessie: Access to her Book Blurb Magic Course. From BCP: $25 Voucher Treasure chest Give-away 2: (open 17/06/2025 closes 19/07/2025) https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/treasure-chest Otherworldly emergence Novella: (Open 05/07/2025 Closes 07/07/2025) https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/emergence Contact the Team Finding Elara Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/FindingElara Discord : https://discord.gg/Ap8EWpPn BCP Website: www.bcpcreative.com.au BCP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcp.creative/ BCP Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bcpcreative Contact Dianna Website: www.dlnix.com Facebook: (DL Nix) https://www.facebook.com/Faepatriantales Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/findingelara/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@findingelarapodcast Sponsor Info Book Reality https://bookreality.com/ Shadow Lair: https://ko-fi.com/findingelara Show Notes Inspired by Becoming a writer Dorothe Brande Regular Consistent writing built trust in self to become a secure creative Grew up in the Blue Mountains – surrounded by tourist atmosphere To beat overwhelm, got an assistant and built a team. Rostered a 4 day work week to ensure intentional creative rest. Reward self with Spare time. Walks around the city to clear head. Dealing with rejection – remember it is collaborative and you have to be creatively vulnerable. Writing habit tip = Consistency Other creative endeavours, hand crafts. (knit, cross-stitch, beading) Playing it safe never works, you have to be creatively brave. Quotes By Jessie Overwhelm comes for feeling like we should be doing something in a particular way … becoming aware of the ebs and flows and being ok with the need to rest so you can come back better than before is the secret. I know that when ideas slow down it’s not that I am running out of ideas, It’s that I haven’t had enough creative rest. Consistency is the buzz word; it’s the important thing. Learning to be creatively brave Look at expectations Are they Realistic? Are they Serving you? Are they helping you get more done? Fast fire questions Would you rather be a table or a chair? Table Are you a dog person or cat person? Dog Who is your favourite superhero? Not a superhero person If you were to have a magical power what would it be? There were 2 – Flying or Invisibility What is the first think you would do with a huge lotto win? Buy a Waterfront Apartment Buffy Night Graham Green Book Club https://www.amazon.com.au/stores/author/B000APVBKI She loves how Meta the stories are and what they inspire in her about writing every day.…

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S02E11049 Treasure Chest Summary and winners 23:08

10 weeks ago23:08