Sharing the Heart of the Matter

In this episode of Sharing the Heart of the Matter, hosts Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson talk with novelist Deborah Brasket about her new book, This Sea Within, a sweeping historical novel that blends political intrigue, love,coming-of-age, and spiritual longing. Deborah shares how her world travels, deep research, and personal reflections shaped a story rich with danger, beauty, and purpose.

Together, they explore the connection between the sensualand the spiritual, the power of story to illuminate history, and what it means to be called by something greater than yourself. If you love thoughtful conversations about books, creativity, courage, and the deeper currents that move our lives, this episode is for you.

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Looking for a compelling author interview and a great newpsychological thriller to add to your reading list? In this episode of Sharing the Heart of the Matter, P. J. Gudka joins us to discuss her debut novel, Perfect, a psychological domestic thriller centered on family secrets, generationaltrauma, perfectionism, and moral complexity.

We talk about her transition from poetry to fiction, how she built layered and relatable characters, and why empathy matters so much in storytelling. P. J. also shares insights into the writing process, self-publishing, the power of the writing community, and what she’s working on next.

If you enjoy book podcasts, author interviews, psychological thrillers, and conversations about creativity, this episode isone you won’t want to miss.

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In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon talk with Wayne Runde. Wayne is an author, physician and veteran US Navy Commander.

Wayne tells us about his book, Shadow of the Deceiver, the third installment in The Genesis Trust series. We hear about why he was called to start writing even with his busy schedule and a fascinating set of hobbies.

We ask about the intersection of science, morality and humanity that is a cornerstone for his writing and stories. Wayne tell us where he finds inspirations for characters from his professional life and his personal interactions within his church community.

This is a great episode with an author that has re-imagined a sci-fi classic through a meaningful lens. We know you’ll love it.

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In this episode, hosts Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson engage with author Gloria Golec about her memoir, South Side Memories.

The conversation explores themes of family, immigrant experiences, and the power of storytelling. Gloria shares insights on how her Polish heritage and family dynamics shaped her identity and writing journey.

The discussion emphasizes the importance of preserving personal narratives, the emotional connections that come from sharing stories, and provides the inspiration for writing our own stories.

Takeaways

• The book is a reflection of the American dream and immigrant experiences.
• Storytelling helps maintain connections to roots and loved ones.
• Writing can be a therapeutic process for personal growth.
• Family dynamics, especially gender roles, play a significant role in shaping identity.
• Cherished memories can provide clarity and understanding of past relationships.
• Cultural heritage is often intertwined with food traditions and family gatherings.
• Teaching experiences can influence one's writing and storytelling approach.
• Writing a memoir can be an emotional journey that brings past relationships closer.
• Encouragement to start writing by focusing on one story at a time.
• Sharing stories can inspire others and create a sense of community.

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In this episode of 'How to Share', hosts Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson engage with author Marc Ross about his latest geopolitical thriller, 'Attacking the Dragon'. The conversation delves into the book's plot, which revolves around China's Belt and Road Initiative, and how Ross's background as a lawyer influenced his writing. They explore the complexities of Chinese politics, character development, and the nuances of storytelling, as well as Ross's personal journey from law to fiction writing.

Takeaways:

• Marc Ross's book 'Attacking the Dragon' explores China's geopolitical landscape.
• The Belt and Road Initiative is a significant yet under-discussed topic.
• Ross aims to portray China as a victim rather than an aggressor in his narrative.
• His legal background provides a unique perspective on the thriller genre.
• Character names in Chinese culture are complex but manageable for storytelling.
• Ross's writing journey reflects a long-held dream to become an author.
• He emphasizes the importance of creating unique protagonists in thrillers.
• The art of storytelling involves engaging readers through vivid descriptions.
• Ross enjoys the process of writing and values reader feedback. His experiences as a lawyer enrich his fictional narratives.

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In this episode of the podcast, Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson engage with novelist Doug E. Jones about Take Me Back to Chicago. Our conversation delves into the rich tapestry of 1974 Chicago, exploring the characters, music, and personal connections that shape the narrative.

Doug also shares insights into his transition from TV writing as a writer for the tv show Charmed (and more) to novel writing. We also talk about the thematic elements of his work, and the humor that permeates his storytelling. The episode highlights the importance of character dynamics and the personal experiences that inform Doug's writing, making it a delightful exploration of both the book and the author's journey.

Takeaways

• Doug E. Jones’s novel is set in 1974 Chicago, rich with cultural references.
• The protagonist, Rick, faces a significant debt left by his father.
• The book features strong female characters, including Rick’s daughter Elena.
• Doug’s writing process involves integrating real Chicago characters and events.
• The transition from TV writing to novel writing was liberating for Doug.
• Music plays a crucial role in setting the tone of the story.
• The character dynamics between Rick and his friend Javi add humor and depth.
• Historical context is woven into the narrative, enhancing the story’s richness.
• Doug’s personal experiences influence the characters and settings in his novels.
• The book is described as a ‘beach read’—entertaining and engaging.

Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson talk with author Ilsa Rey about her book, Wish I Was Here that will be released on December 23, 2025. The conversation delves into the thrilling narrative where Anna's best friend Isaac invents an invisibility pill and is kidnapped for it. In a desperate attempt to save him, Anna takes the pill herself, leading to a race against time to find him and secure the antidote before she remains invisible forever.

Ilsa tells us about her 10 year journey of writing the book as well as all the ways she used rejection and feedback to grow. We talk about writing in the zone as well as the research that goes into great books like Wish I Was Here.

Takeaways

Anna's best friend Isaac invents an invisibility pill.Isaac is kidnapped for his invention.

Anna takes the invisibility pill to save herself.

She has one week to find Isaac and the antidote.

Remaining invisible could lead to insanity and death.

Anna must follow clues left by Isaac.

The story explores themes of friendship and urgency.

The narrative is filled with adventure and suspense.

The invisibility pill serves as a catalyst for the plot.

The stakes are high as Anna races against time.

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In this episode, hosts Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson engage with licensed nutritionist Meg Bowman, discussing her book 'This Is Your Body on Trauma.' They explore the intricate relationship between nutrition, trauma, and emotional well-being, emphasizing the importance of safety as a nutrient and how the way we eat can impact our health.

The conversation delves into the significance of understanding our nervous system's state, the role of food in family dynamics, and practical strategies for creating a safe eating environment. Meg shares her insights on the FIGS protocol and the personal journey of writing her book, encouraging listeners to approach their relationship with food with kindness and curiosity.

Takeaways

• Safety is the most important nutrient for the nervous system.
• How you eat is as important as what you eat.
• Understanding your nervous system state can influence food choices.
• Food is often a reflection of deeper needs for safety and stability.
• Nutrition requires a personal and nuanced approach.
• Creating a safe eating environment can enhance well-being.
• The FIGS protocol helps assess individual nutritional needs.
• Storytelling and emotional state impact our relationship with food.
• Removing shame from food choices is crucial for healing.
• Self-care should focus on centering individual needs.

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In this heartfelt episode, Lauren Scott talks with Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson about her journey of grief and healing after the loss of her beloved dog, Copper. Through poetry, she found a way to express her emotions and honor Copper's memory, culminating in her book 'King Copper.' The conversation explores the deep bond between pets and their owners, the process of creating a tribute, and the importance of allowing oneself to grieve. Lauren also discusses her future projects, including a children's book about camping experiences, highlighting the ongoing journey of love and remembrance. 

Takeaways 

• Lauren Scott wrote poetry to cope with the loss of her dog Copper. 
• The book 'King Copper' is a tribute to the joy and grief of pet ownership. 
• Writing poetry provided Lauren with a cathartic outlet for her emotions. 
• The process of creating the book helped Lauren feel connected to Copper. 
• Grief has no timeline, and it's okay to take time to heal. 
• The book includes joyful poems as well as those reflecting grief. 
• Lauren's experience resonates with many pet owners who face similar losses. 
• The importance of honoring the memory of beloved pets through storytelling. 
• Lauren's next project is a children's book about camping experiences. 
• The love for pets is unconditional and deeply impactful. 

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In this episode, Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson engage with author Michael Atman, who shares the journey of his book Cherry Whip, which has been republished 20 years after its initial release.

The conversation delves into themes of self-awareness, the significance of personal experiences, and the cultural insights gained from living in Japan. Michael discusses the importance of humor in storytelling and the lessons learned throughout his writing journey.

Takeaways

• Michael Atman's journey with Cherry Whip spans over two decades.
• Self-awareness is a recurring theme in all of Michael's works.
• The protagonist Hiroshi's struggles reflect the complexities of the human condition.
• Michael's experiences in Japan greatly influenced his writing.
• The humor in Cherry Whip serves to highlight serious themes.
• Writing can take time, and patience is essential for authors.
• Transformation is a key element in both literature and life.
• Cultural perspectives can enrich storytelling.
• Michael's writing process emphasizes the importance of self-knowledge.
• Future projects continue to explore themes of personal growth and identity.

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In this episode , hosts Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson engage with author Michele Lee Sefton, discussing her new book 'Jade's Broken Bridge'.

The conversation delves into Michele's personal journey of courage and healing following the loss of her father, herexperiences in writing as a therapeutic tool, and her future creative projects.

The episode highlights the importance of storytelling in overcoming personal struggles and the transformative power of writing.

Takeaways

• Michele's book 'Jade's Broken Bridge' is inspired by her personal experiences.
• Writing can serve as a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery.
• Facing fears can lead to personal growth and new opportunities.
• The loss of her father motivated Michele to pursue her writing dreams.
• Michele emphasizes the importance of taking small steps towards overcoming fear.
• Fictionalizing her story allowed Michele to express herself creatively.
• The natural world plays a significant role in Michele's writing.
• Michele's future projects include republishing her novellas and a poetry collection.
• The act of writing can provide clarity and perspective on past experiences.
• Michele aims to help others through her storytelling.

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In this episode, hosts Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinsonengage with author Deborah Brasket about her debut novel, 'When Things Go Missing.' The conversation delves into the themes of motherhood, identity, and the complexities of family dynamics, as well as Brasket's personal experiences, including her adventurous sailing journey around the world. The discussion also touches on her creative process and future writing projects, providing insights into the life of a dedicated author. 

Takeaways

Deborah's novel explores the impact of a mother's disappearance on her family.

The story highlights themes of loyalty, loss, and dysfunction.

Brasket's personal experiences influenced her writing.

The characters' journeys reflect real-life struggles with identity.

The novel's title encapsulates the essence of loss.

Brasket's sailing adventure inspired her storytelling.

The creative process can be long and challenging.

Brasket emphasizes the importance of prioritizing writing time.

The next book will explore themes of love and rebellion.

Readers can relate to the emotional depth of the characters.

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In this episode of Sharing the Heart of the Matter, hosts Wynne Leon Vicki Atkinson engage with author Chris Thelen, discussing his latest political thriller, Race for Redemption, and the challenges of writing a sequel to his previous work, Islands of Deception.

Chris shares insights into his writing process, the importance of character development, and the balance of managing multiple writing projects. The conversation also touches on the significance of research in creating authentic narratives and the creative growth that comes from switching genres. Chris offers valuable advice for aspiring writers, emphasizing the importance of networking and putting one's work out into the world.

takeaways

• Writing a sequel presents unique challenges, including maintaining character consistency.
• Chris balances multiple writing projects, including a light science fiction book.
• Research plays a crucial role in Chris's writing, enhancing authenticity.
• Feedback from readers can significantly influence character development in sequels.
• Switching genres can help authors grow creatively and expand their readership.
• Blogging is a valuable tool for writers to share their work and receive feedback.
• Networking within the writing community can open doors for aspiring authors.
• The creative process often involves vulnerability and the courage to seek help.

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In this episode, Bob Conlon talks with Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon about his book 'Celtic Knot,' which tells the story of his grandfather, Tim Conlon, an Irish immigrant who faced numerous challenges in 19th-century Chicago.

The conversation explores themes of resilience, family, community, and the importance of storytelling in preserving history.

Bob shares insights into his research process, the historical events intertwined with Tim's life, and the significance of the Celtic knot as a symbol of connection and continuity.

Takeaways

• Bob Conlon's book 'Celtic Knot' is inspired by his grandfather's life.
• Tim Conlon was orphaned at a young age and faced many challenges.
• The importance of family gatherings in storytelling.
• Historical events like the Chicago fire shaped Tim's life.
• Resilience and ingenuity are central themes in Tim's story.
• Community played a vital role in immigrant lives in Chicago.
• The Celtic knot symbolizes connection and continuity.
• Bob's legal background influenced his research and writing process.
• The Eastland disaster is a significant yet overlooked tragedy.
• Storytelling is essential for preserving family history and heritage.

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In this episode hosts Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson engage with writer Michael Frutig, who shares insights into his diverse creative projects, the collaborative writing process, and the importance of exploring different genres to maintain creativity. Michael discusses his journey as a co-author, the challenges of writing humor, and the personal connections he weaves into his characters. The conversation also touches on his writing discipline and future projects, including an audiobook adaptation of his epic poem.

Takeaways

• Writing is a powerful tool for personal expression.
• Co-writing requires trust and collaboration.
• Exploring different genres can enhance creativity.
• Daily writing discipline can lead to significant progress.
• Characters often reflect aspects of the writer's self.
• Humor in writing is challenging but rewarding.
• Feedback from readers can be invaluable.
• Writing can be a cathartic process.
• Inspiration can come from everyday experiences.
• The journey of writing is as important as the final product.

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In this episode, hosts Wynne  Leon and VickiAtkinson engage with authors Amy Goober and Gwen Borden, discussing their book 'My Mother Always Says: 25 Lessons for Finding the Silver Lining.' The conversation explores the wisdom passed down through generations, theimportance of reframing experiences, and the power of optimism in overcoming life's challenges. Amy and Gwen share personal stories that highlight resilience, the significance of mother-daughter relationships, and the lessons learned from both good and bad experiences. The episode emphasizes the value of vulnerability, the journey of self-discovery, and the legacy of love and adventure that shapes our lives.

takeaways

• The book combines memoir and self-help, sharing life lessons.
• Gwen's experiences during historical events provide a unique perspective.
• Mother-daughter relationships are timeless and impactful.
• Modeling behavior is crucial in parenting and teaching.
• Vulnerability is essential for personal growth and connection.
• Optimism can be a powerful tool in facing adversity.
• Learning from experiences, both good and bad, is vital.
• Intergenerational wisdom enriches our lives and understanding.
• It's important to embrace change and reinvent oneself.
• The journey of life is filled with opportunities for growth.

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In this episode, Linda Broenniman talks with Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson about her journey of uncovering her family's Jewish heritage, which began with a surprising revelation about her father's identity.

Through extensive research, she explores eight generations of her family history, revealing secrets, trauma, and the impact of historical events on her identity. The conversation delves into the emotional aspects of writing her book, 'The Pulitzer Saga,' and how it has facilitated healing and connection with her ancestry.

Takeaways

• Linda discovered her father's Jewish heritage at 27.
• The honor awarded to her mother sparked her research.
• Researching her family history helped her find forgiveness.
• Understanding her father's trauma changed her perspective.
• The importance of asking the right questions about family history.
• The emotional weight of family secrets can be profound.
• Visual elements in her book enhance the storytelling.
• Collaboration with historians was crucial for accuracy.
• The journey of discovery can lead to unexpected connections.
• Writing the book was a form of intergenerational healing.

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In this episode of Sharing the Heart of the Matter, hosts Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson engage with author RitishSharma, who, along with co-author Deepak Joshi, has created a series of books titled 'Unfold the Stories of Unsung Heroes.' The conversation explores the inspiration behind the series, the process of finding and vetting stories of global heroes, and the emotional impact these narratives have on readers. Ritish shares insights into the power of storytelling and the importance of highlighting acts of kindness in a world that often focuses on negativity. The episode emphasizes the need for positivity and the celebration of individuals making a difference without seeking recognition.

Takeaways

Ritish and Deepak started the series to highlight unsung heroes.• The stories aim to inspire and give recognition to those who care.• Readers contribute by suggesting heroes from their communities.• Research is crucial to ensure the authenticity of the stories.• The emotional depth of the stories resonates with readers.• Storytelling can create a ripple effect of kindness.• Every detail in a hero's story matters for emotional connection.• The series showcases a global community of heroes.• Acts of kindness can change lives and inspire others.• Celebrating good in the world is essential, especially today.
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In this episode of the Heart of the Matter podcast, host Wynne Leon and co-host Vicki Atkinson engage in a deepconversation with mentalist and author Alexander Beresford. They explore themes of human connection, the interplay between magic and writing, and the insights derived from Beresford's works, including 'Mr. Fenwick and the Door That Stayed Closed (Until It Didn't)' and 'The Inward Stage'. The discussion highlights the importance of vulnerability, presence, and the subtle nuances of human interaction, both in performance and in life.

In this engaging conversation, the speakers explorethe intricate relationship between performance and audience engagement, emphasizing the importance of emotional connection in magic and mentalism. Theydiscuss the terminology used in the field, the impact of live performances, and the significance of intuition in connecting with audiences. The conversation also delves into personal reflections on writing and growth, as well as the future of live entertainment in an increasingly digital world.

Takeaways

• Human connection is central to both magic and writing.

• Vulnerability is more impactful than cleverness in performance.

• Silence can enhance connection and understanding.

• Magic and literature both evoke wonder and presence.

• The act of writing can be a form of magic.

• Presence in storytelling can transform the reader's experience.

• Connection with the audience is essential for performers.

• Subtlety in storytelling can convey deep truths.

• The crossover between magic and writing enriches both art forms.

• Creativity is sparked by curiosity and exploration. There's a constant connection with the audience during performances.

• The language of magic is important; 'effects' are preferred over 'tricks'.

• Live experiments can create memorable moments for both performer and audience.

• The energy of a live audience enhances the performance experience.

• Performers often connect with the emotions of their audience.

• Writing can be a reflection of personal growth and experiences.

• Intuition plays a crucial role in performance and audience connection.

• Live entertainment is becoming more valuable in a digital age.

• Personal stories can resonate deeply with audiences during performances.Links for this episode:

In this inspiring episode, Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson are talking with filmmaker, philanthropist and author, Peter Samuelson.

Peter produced films such as Return of Pink Panther, and Revenge of the Nerds. He’s worked with Steve McQueen, Peter Sellers, and started four philanthropies, including one with Steven Spielberg.

And now he’s written this incredible book that combines the amazing and entertaining episodes from all those adventures with reflective lessons and learning.

He tells us how he came to write this book, writing at 5am each morning to alternate between lessons learned on some days and anecdotes on others.

He tells us the story that sparked the first charity he founded, Starlight, granting wishes to sick kids and their families.

Peter teaches a course called Random Acts of Kindness and Pay It Forwards. He explains the crossover between underprivileged kids and acts of service and tells some heart-grabbing stories.

We talk about Peter’s delightful father, Sir Sydney Samuelson and his infectious ability to talk to everyone. Peter relates a wonderful story about how his dad made a great connection to benefit his First Star foundation and how the ripple effect of Sir Sydney’s life continues on.

Peter tells us how he fell in love with his now wife of 40 years and gives some really solid advice about how to meet like-minded others.

Vicki and I were transfixed by Peter’s incredible energy and enthusiasm. His application of the 2nd law of thermodynamics will move you into wanting to make a difference. His stories will leave you smiling and charmed.

Finding Happy is a great book that launches on Tuesday, June 10th. It’s such a fun read for all, but especially young adults, and a perfect gift idea for dads and grads.

Join us for this inspiring episode with the delightful Peter Samuelson. We know you'll love it!

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In episode 115, Vicki and Wynne engage with author Danny Miller, who shares insights from his book, 'The Way of the Wave.' The conversation explores themes of surrendering control, embracing creativity, navigating life's challenges, and the importance of self-care. Danny recounts his personal journey of transformation, emphasizing the significance of trusting the flow of life and the lessons learned through various experiences. The episode concludes with Danny reading his poignant poem, 'Life's Lantern.'

Here are some key takeaways from our discussion:

• Danny Miller discusses his journey of surrendering control.
• He emphasizes the importance of creativity and flow in life.
• Self-care is essential for maintaining balance and well-being.
• Danny shares personal anecdotes to illustrate his lessons.
• The concept of 'wave obstructors' and 'wave enhancers' is introduced.
• He highlights the significance of attentive listening in parenting.
• Danny reflects on the importance of navigating life's lulls.
• The conversation touches on the power of vulnerability in storytelling.
• Danny's poem, 'Life's Lantern,' encapsulates his philosophy.
• The episode encourages embracing life's unpredictability.

This is a fantastic episode with a whole-hearted author sharing valuable and vulnerable lessons. We know you'll love it!

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In this fascinating episode, Vicki and Wynne talk with author, Mark Wukas. Mark has just released his debut novel, The Kiss of the Night.

It’s a book more than 40 years in the making. Mark talks about how he cultivated the book that lived inside him for so long.

We also get to hear about his careers as a journalist and teacher. He tells us what it was like to work a 5pm – 2pm shift as a City News reporter in Chicago.

Vicki and Wynne get the details of the interplay of journalists and police and the gritty feeling of the denizens of the night.

Mark and Vicki talk about some of the notable Chicago landmarks featured in the story. Wynne can attest that even for non-Chicagoans, the incredible details of place and time provide a richly textured backdrop for this gripping story.

Mark turns the tables on us to find out our favorite parts of the book – the diner scenes, the difference between facts and the truth, and the coming of age shift that happens as we face the real world.

This is a fantastic episode with a fascinating author about a riveting book. We know you'll love it!

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In this thrilling episode, Vicki Atkinson and I have the pleasure of chatting with the captivating thriller author, Carl Vonderau.

Carl left the world of international banking to become a writer, and he masterfully weaves his banking knowledge and upbringing as a Christian Scientist into his novels.

Carl takes us on a journey as he shares his meticulous research process for the locations in his books. His dedication to capturing the essence of each place is truly fascinating.

We admire and chuckle at Carl's language skills. He shares the wisdom that to speak a foreign language, you must be willing to embrace embarrassment.

Get an exclusive preview of Carl's upcoming book, "Past Due." Discover why one of his core themes is the necessity for families to grow and evolve.

This is a must-listen episode featuring an intriguing author, adventurer, and family man, Carl Vonderau. We know you'll love it!

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In this exciting episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon have the pleasure of chatting with the phenomenal best-selling author, Andrew Mayne.

Join us as Andrew Mayne takes us on an incredible journey through his captivating career – from mesmerizing audiences as an illusionist on cruise ships, starring in A&E’s hit show “Don’t Trust Andrew Mayne,” designing a groundbreaking stealth suit for diving with Great White sharks on Discovery Channel’s Shark Week, being a Prompt Whisperer and Science Communicator for Open AI, and now a celebrated best-selling author.

In his latest thrilling novel, Mr. Whisper, Andrew masterfully unites his four iconic characters from his previous series. He shares the intriguing challenges he faced in writing from multiple perspectives and how the theory of mind played a crucial role in his storytelling. And he reveals how he uses virtual reality technology to go “on location” as he scouts locales for his books.

Discover the secrets behind Andrew’s path to success and how his magician’s skills have influenced his writing style, particularly the art of “showing, not telling” in crafting edge-of-your-seat thrillers.

Andrew reveals the powerful feedback loop he employed while writing his first books and how his dedication led him to write an astonishing ten books in one year as a practice.

Andrew delves into the concept of survivorship bias and its impact on the success stories of those who have “made it.” We explore why this might not hold true for future generations as the world continues to evolve.

This podcast is packed with insights that we have pondered long after recording. Andrew’s critical thinking skills, honed through designing his “shock magic” illusions, offer valuable perspectives for various other pursuits.

As a bonus, Andrew shares a fantastic tip on teaching critical thinking to young kids, which we found equally applicable to adults.

In this captivating interview, Andrew shares one of our new favorite quotes: “When you are okay with being fooled, you unlock a new kind of wonder.” Embrace the mystery, not just in thrillers, but in life itself.

Get ready to be enthralled by the fascinating and thought-provoking discussions on magic and writing with the brilliant Andrew Mayne.

We know you’ll love it.

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Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are delighted to talk with author and publisher, Rick Kaempfer about his book EveryCubEver.

This is the second game in our baseball double-header as we talk with the hilarious and engaging Rick about his labor of love, EveryCubEver. He swears this seventh edition of the book is the last time he’s going to update it until the Chicago Cubs win the World Series.

There are 2600 Cubs in this book – 2296 players and the rest are managers and back office. Rick provides the storytelling in each entry so it’s a great read for history buffs as well as baseball fans. He tells who became a dentist and who ended up in jail, who was on the beaches of Normandy, and who went on to become a governor.  

As an example of the engaging storytelling, he tells us why manager Frank Chance traded for pitcher Jack Harper just to ruin his career.

He gives us the background on the 200 photographs that are included in this edition of the book and where he found them.

Rick tells us the touching story of how he got invited to go to the Baseball Hall of Fame induction ceremony this year. Such a fantastic way to round out a year that included publishing this seventh edition of EveryCubEver.

Join us as we explore the scenic and beautiful places we go when we tell baseball stories. You won't want to miss this great conversation with the amazing and entertaining, Rick Kaempfer!

We know you’ll love it!

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In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are delighted to be with Wynne's five-year-old son, Mr. D.

Mr. D is so excited about starting on a Little League team that he asked to podcast about it. Which is saying something because he’s not as naturally voluble as his older sister.

We're clearly biased about our guest. But in our opinion listening to the enthusiasm of a kid excited about a team, a sport, and the crack of the ball against a bat stirs the well of our own passions.  

Mr. D shows us all the equipment necessary for Little League – including our favorite, the bubble gum.

We talk about the magic that often happens when we go to MLB games. Vicki tells us about the ball parks and teams in Chicago.

This podcast meanders a bit as we ride along with a young and curious guest. But he brings it all together with an incredible answer when Vicki asks him what he likes best a little before minute 17 in the recording.

We also included a little easter egg at the end at minute 19. Mr. D shows you don’t have to know how to spell in order to capture hearts.

Join us as we explore the scenic and beautiful places we go when we tell baseball stories. You won't want to miss this heart-warming and refreshing perspective of five-year-old Mr. D!

We know you’ll love it!

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In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are thrilled to be with the talented artist and author, Danny Gregory.

Danny shares his incredible journey from being an ad agency creative director for 30 years to becoming a renowned author and artist. His books and newsletters are notjust inspiring; they are a daily call to create and live with purpose. They read like good philosophy, urging us to embrace creativity every day.

Our conversation with Danny was nothing short of inspiring. We delved into morning routines, where I meditate and Danny creates art before breakfast. Why? Because, as Danny delightfully quips, our inner critic tends to get up later.

Vicki and I discovered the magic of illustrative journaling with Danny. Art, as he explains, helps us adapt to life’s changes, builds our confidence, and gives us control over our perspective. It keeps us from being stuck in the mundane.

Danny’s enormously popular YouTube channel is less about teaching how to draw and more about understanding the chemical process of creativity. He reminds us that our inner critic is no more correct than we are. Talking with Danny is like having a good coach who not only teaches us skills but also provides the mindset to be most productive.

Join us as we explore the scenic and beautiful places we go as creators. You won't want to miss this insightful and inspiring conversation with Danny Gregory!

We know you’ll love it!

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Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are with best-selling author, Barbara Nickless.

Barbara's fascinating resume includes roles as a technical writer, instructional designer, raptor rehabilitator, piano teacher, performer, sword fighter, and Director of Education for the country’s largest public astronomical observatory.

She shares her journey to becoming a best-selling author of thrillers and how devastating losses have led to new opportunities.

Barbara also discusses how writing helps process experiences and how she has taught writingto combat veterans.

We delve into her creative fuel that has led to nine novels in ten years, and her wholehearted investment in research and writing, which shines through in her characters' internal growth.

Join us as we explore the scenic and beautiful places that inspire Barbara's best-selling novels. You won't want to miss this insightful and inspiring conversation!

We know you’ll love it!

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In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are with the delightful author and blogger, Darlene Foster.

Darlene shares how she started writing her young adult series featuring Amanda Ross. It’s such a great story that captures so well the struggle for tone and perspective.And how once that key is unlocked we can keep on building!

She brings us the magic, the mystery, and discovery that come with travel and tweens. The delight of being unencumbered enough to not be afraid to see where things lead.

Darlene does such a beautiful job of writing about travel and adventure because she lives a life of travel and adventure. She tells us what it’s like to be bi-continental and why money should not be the limiting factor.

She is so inspirational. I know you’ll agree as you listen to how she reminds us to make our dreams come true. Darlene’s story is so inspiring. She beautifully shows us how to attach to goals and just keep moving.

We’re confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we talk about dreams, travel and adventure!

We know you’ll love it!

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In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are with Wynne's nine-year-old daughter, Miss O.

Miss O was given a fourth grade class assignment to write about a perspective change. When she came home with this short essay about Wynne's dad, she was stunned.

She reads the essay to us and tells us what inspired her. Clearly we have a personal interest in this but at a bigger level, it’s fascinating to see what kids take away from family stories.

Vicki asks about how Miss O finds her voice and is so good at teasing out why it’s so meaningful to hear it from her perspective.

When we dig in to what Miss O knows about her grandfather who she never met, it’s both interesting and endearing to see the impression she’s gleaned of my dad. It’s also really funny to see the many ways they are alike.

Miss O talks about what she is doing next. Namely, making a slime channel on YouTube kids. As Miss O says, she is passionate about slime and she wants to share hercreations. Fortunately, for all us we have boundaries – the slime has to stay in the rec room and she’s only showing her hands.

We’re confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we talk about family stories!

We know you’ll love it!

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Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are talking with writer, poet, artist, and blogger, Dave Williams.

Joy is…having Dave Williams come on the podcast to tell us what inspired his recent project to collect and publish what sparks joy in the blogging community.

He tells us how he was inspired by the spirit of his Aunt Diane. Celebrating her infectious personality after she passed away last summer was one of the motivations behind this project.

Another was the idea to strengthen the delight muscle. A suggestion in the book Daily Delight by Ross Gay prompted Dave to want to cultivate the same upward spiral.

And Dave was also inspired by Teri Polen’s Bad Moon Rising blogging project that brings the WordPress community together.

In the end, Dave found and shared so much joy in this community project. He’s compiled a Joy Is _____ table of contents that we know will inspire you.

We’re confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we talk about what joy is and how to celebrate that as a community!

We know you’ll love it!

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In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are with friend and author, Christina Dudley talking about Christina’s book Pride and Preston Lin.

We love this book. Christina has created a fantastic adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved book Pride and Prejudice. And it is so much more than a contemporary retelling of the story. Christina’s dialogue and clever plot devices make it a compelling and devourable book. Trust me, Wynne can attest because she hid from her kids for an hour so she could finish it.

Christina tells us about being an avid reader growing up and never realizing that none of the characters resembled her. So she shares with us her a-ha moment when she read her first Chinese American author. We also talk about how she found her path to writing.

Her inspiration and lessons learned are so interesting and powerful. From notes about the romance genre overall to the marketing tactics she has discovered, Christina generously shares a lot of great info, some of which she had to divine by trial and error.

In this episode, we not only talk about writing but also about the beautiful arc of characters. It’s a great takeaway of kindness and thoughtfulness that is sure to leave you inspired.

We’re confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we share the storytelling about a great book and more!

We know you’ll love it!

Links for this episode

In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon have turned the hosting duties over our Sharing the Heart of the Matter partner, Brian Hannon.

Brian's roots as a journalist are on full display in this episode. He is such a fantastic interviewer. He coaxes out the lessons Vicki and I have learned in 100 episodes.

And he challenges us to think big to answer who would be on our celebrity guest list.

In some very delightful and prescient chit chat, we get to cheer on the Eagles in advance of their Super Bowl LIX performance.

Most of all, we have a great time celebrating the milestone of 100 episodes and taking a moment to appreciate what goes into starting, envisioning and maintaining a collaborative effort like a podcast.

We’re confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we tell stories about making a podcast!

We know you’ll love it!

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In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are back with author and blogger, Melanie McGauran and we are talking about writer lessons.

Melanie always inspires us with her curiosity and willingness to learn. She is so generous to be willing to share her lessons with us.

She tells us the story behind her essay Growing Up Fast in 1978. We love the essay for its revealing look at her family dynamics and the complicated path she had to walk to get to go to college.

And then she shares some of the lessons she learned from a class she took with author Marin Sardy. She tells us about the chronological canyon and other pitfalls we can fall into.

Melanie shares some of the back and forth she had with Marin as she absorbed the feedback Marin gave her. We laugh that sometimes it’s hard to listen even if the source is an acclaimed author.

And then she extends the lessons with some wise and practical tidbits she picked up from a writing book by Steven Pressfield.

Melanie reveals his advice that hones in on the reader experience. And she shares some questions he provides to make sure content is relatable:

Is it fun?

Is it challenging?

Is it inventive?

Am I giving the reader enough?

Are they bored?

Are they taking me where I want to lead them?

 We’re confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we share the writer lessons learned that help us improve and extend our storytelling!

We know you’ll love it!

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In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are back with author and blogger Mark Petruska and we are out of our comfort zone.

This format was Mark’s idea - to do a podcast without any prompts. To be fair, it’s not that different than our standard format. Usually we go into an episode with three or so prompts of things to talk about. But as all you listeners know, we clearly go down any side roads and questions that occur as we talk.

But in this episode, we each came up with a question for the others to answer. No predetermined topic or heads up.

And you know what? It was fun. Kinda like a great dinner party conversation. It opened the forum up for off-the-cuff storytelling.

We're confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we share the power of going out of our comfort zones to do unscripted storytelling!

We know you’ll love it!

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In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon celebrate our 100th episode.

We sit down to mark the moment and answer four questions:

What were our favorite stories?

Do we have a biggest a-ha moment?

What have we learned as hosts?

Goals for the Sharing the Heart of the Matter podcast in 2025?

Vicki shares that she actually went back and listened to the very first episode. She says that instead of the cringe-worthy moment she expected, it was worth listening to our goals of being authentic and vulnerable.

We also spend some time laughing about the technical difficulties we’ve encountered along the way. In spite of those, we’ve forged through and added features like captions and transcripts to make the podcast more accessible.

In this celebratory moment, we honor all the incredible and inspiring guests we’ve had on and applaud our wonderful listeners and subscribers. We couldn’t be more grateful for all of you who’ve accompanied us on this journey.

I’m confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we share the power of storytelling and pause to celebrate before we move on to the next 100 episodes!

We know you’ll love it!

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Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are with blogger and teacher, Beth Kennedy, over a big pot of soup.

Metaphorically speaking of course because we’re separated by three different times zones. But otherwise, we can really stretch the goodness of soup.

Beth tells us why she likes soup so much to inspire more than 20 posts over the years. We discuss the multicultural as well as the community aspect of it.

Vicki and Wynne ask about how she finds the terrific quotes to go with the hearty content. Beth shares some of the unusual sources that you wouldn’t expect in a quote about soup.

We laugh about the different concoctions we’ve made and share the recipes – not only for a wonderful meal but also for community and connection.

We also talk about the Himalayan stew that inspired Beth’s post and how it’s like the melting pot of Everest Base Camp.

This is a great episode that will feed you on many levels. With an accompanying recipe, it’s great inspiration on the literal level. But also on the story-telling, creativity, and collaboration levels as well.

We're confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we share the power of storytelling over a cup of good soup.

We know you’ll love it!

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In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are talking with author, public speaker, and parental advocate, Vickie Rubin.

Vickie gives us the elevator pitch for her book, Raising Jess. She jokes that it's long enough to require an elevator in the tallest building in Manhattan. Fitting, because there is so much goodness in her book about raising her child with a chromosome deletion: mother’s intuition, decisions about whether to have more children, the grandparent’s point of view, and more.

Vickie’s openness and support of others are so inspiring. In her work supporting other families trying to navigate the systems to get resources for their children to Facebook communities, Vickie is a powerful parental resource and advocate. By telling her story, she continues to help others navigate their own challenges.

Vicki and Wynne ask about what’s next for Vickie. She’s recently published an article in Newsweek and she tells us about the writing classes she taking.

This is a great episode that not only focuses on the resilience, love, and thriving of one family but also inspires the same in everyone who listens. When we share our stories, we empower others and Vickie illustrates that so well.

I’m confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we share the power of storytelling – in our books, our podcasts, and our lives.

We know you’ll love it!

On a programming note, this is the last episode of 2024. We'll drop the next one on Jan 10, 2025. See you then!

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In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne are talking with author, blogger, and WordPress pro, Mark Petruska.

This year is Mark’s 15th year blogging on WordPress. And he blogged on a different platform before that. Clearly, he’s a pro.

So he walks us through the many things that he’s done to keep things fresh over the years. Switching themes, changing site names, even combining two blogs and changing URLs.

His advice as a veteran? Know the purpose of your blog and keep it in mind as you redesign.

Mark tells us about December snow and for us relatively new people to WordPress, it’s some cool history.

One of the takeaways that I love from this conversation is that Mark talks about site design as a creative act in and of itself. So if we are ever stuck in a writing rut, it’s one idea to get us out!

This is a really encouraging episode that on the surface is about  the considerations behind designing a good site and all that goes in to a WordPress blog. But really it’s also about knowing your purpose and embracing change in any area. Mark’s long experience is both illuminating and emboldening.

I’m confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we share the power of storytelling – not only in our words but also in our site designs.

We know you’ll love it!

Links for this episode

In this episode, Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson are with blogger, parent and social justice advocate, Ab.

Ab tells us the great story of a chance encounter he had with a woman standing next to him and his family in an hour-long line. She led with a query and Ab answered with his trademark humor and openness.

Vicki and Wynne delve into how these encounters can be very different from what we imagine when we genuinely lean into them.

Ab talks about the loneliness epidemic and how the antidote to negative feelings and isolation is connection. While finding your people isn’t always easy, it’s facilitated by having an open-heart.

We explore how sometimes we're in the prison of our own thoughts and how human connection breaks us out of that loop and facilitates kindness.  

This is such a fascinating episode. We love the kinship we with have with Ab. And he’s so good at illustrating how community is where kindness and empathy happens. It’s where we have the opportunity to support each other and create deep relationships.

I’m confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we share the power of storytelling about finding our people.

We know you’ll love it!

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In this episode Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon are talking with author, blogger, and former newspaper writer, Melanie McGauran about decoding our dreams.

This is such a fascinating episode. The interior of our minds is an interesting, and sometimes scary, place. But it is so fun how Melanie brings her love of mysteries to this practice of sifting through the clues.

Melanie talks about her fascination with dreams and how she both remembers hers and extends them. It’s a wonderful practice to not only appreciate the dreamscape but also focus the mind in the middle of the night.

She introduces us to the work of Matthew Walker, author of Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams and his insight that in dreaming, we access our memory tree but without the guardrails of logic.

Melanie combines that memory mixology with her unstoppable creativity, joy and problem-solving to decode dreams.

This episode is such a fun take on dreaming, writing and creativity. We love Melanie’s passion and interest and get to see that in action as she helps us make stories from our dreams.

I’m confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we share the power of storytelling – in podcasts, in conversation, and in dreams.

We know you’ll love it!

Links for this episode:

Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon talk with author, blogger, life coach, and health and wellness professional, Cindy Georgakas.

In this vibrant conversation we get such a wonderful taste of Cindy’s energized and connected presence. She tells us how Covid was the impetus of starting to share wellness information in a different format.

That led to her book released last year in the Happiness Category, Re-Create and Celebrate: 7 Steps to Live the Life of Your Dreams.” In the process of releasing that book, she planned a second release of the book of the poetry she wasn’t able to include in Re-Create & Celebrate. Celebrating Poetry is due out mid-November.

Hearing Cindy tell these stories underscores the rich lessons of learning to adjust when what we’ve planned turns out to be different timing and format.

Vicki and Wynne ask Cindy about what else she has planned on her creative radar.

This is a great episode because all of Cindy’s answers are so full of heart. She is an inspiring author to listen to – because she’s so interested in creating a-ha moments for others. Cindy is a well-spring of wisdom that speaks to the essence of who we are.

I’m confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we share the power of storytelling – in podcasts, in poetry, and in conversation.

We know you’ll love it!

Links for this Episode:

Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon talk with author, and blogger, Lauren Scott.

Lauren tell us the beautiful story about how she started a poetry blog 14 years ago. In the process, she cultivated the roots she’d planted as a young girl for poetry as a destination for her emotions.

Vicki and Wynne ask how she took the step from her blog to publishing books. Lauren tells us the themes of each of her FOUR published books. She weaves the theme of love through all of them, even the most serious, just the way love carries us through life.

And she gives us a sneak peek into the children’s book that is about to hit the press. She authored it with her nephew as illustrator.

The morning we recorded this podcast, Lauren’s piece Treats Only, Please was announced as best publication of the month on Spillwords Press

This podcast is like a master class on the growth mindset. Those are our words, not Lauren’s because she is wonderfully humble and real. Which makes it even more powerful and inspiring to hear Lauren tell about her writer’s journey – all the things she’s overcome and been willing to try – and how that feeds into fantastic ideas for new projects.

We're confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we share the power of storytelling – in podcasts, in posts, and in novels.

We know you’ll love it!

Links for this podcast:

Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon talk with author, blogger, and corporate communications specialist, Brian Hannon about National Novel Writing Month.

Brian tells us why he values the encouragement and accountability piece of NaNoWriMo.

He spills a little bit about the project he has in mind and the goals he’s setting for the month.

Brian is such a great writer, with roots as a newspaper writer and corporate communications specialist. We get to see into the dichotomy of the flexibility in writing Brian has so beautifully explored in posts this week contrasted with the structure necessary to produce a novel.

So it’s fun to hear how he makes time to write, especially as he gears up for NaNoWriMo.

Brian also turns the tables on Vicki and me and gets us to reveal a bit of the bigger projects we are working on. We get to collectively talk about the wonderful goal of producing “wholehearted writing” in whatever medium we choose.

I’m confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we share the power of storytelling – in podcasts, in posts, and in novels.

We know you’ll love it!

Links for this episode:

In this episode, Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson talk about site design and WordPress themes.

We know - we can hear you groaning from here. In fact, Wynne is groaning right along with you even though this is a large part of what she's done professionally for 30 years.

But if you are thinking about changing up your site or even just wondering if you should, there are some good tactics to help make this manageable.

We talk through some of the design considerations to be mindful of like navigation and search. And then we look at the sections to consider when picking a theme like the header, footer, and sidebar.

We address some of the problems we’ve heard people have encountered when switching themes in WordPress like content disappearing and inability to revert back. Wynne offers some strategies for avoiding that flavor of disappointment and disaster.

There is a presentation that gives these elements and examples to download as a companion piece to this podcast. Here’s the thing – tackling site design isn’t always fun, but it’s better when we do it together with some good approaches and tactics.

We're confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we share the power of storytelling as told through well-designed sites.

We know you’ll love it!

In this episode, Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson share a cup of tea. They bring in one of Wynne's favorite quotes about tea from Mark Nepo. He likens tea to the way we make sense of our lives. From gathering the leaves, to pouring water over it, to drinking it slowly, we cultivate the aromatic blend that helps us and heals us. Both Vicki and Wynne like the ritual because it slows us down. Having a cup of tea is like an invitation to bring forward what we already know. Wynne shares her secret for how long I let it steep. And Vicki brings forward the treasures from her family that hold so much more than tea. Vicki shares a delightful book about making tea that has been a gift and a reminder to let the swirls of tea help settle our thoughts down. We're confident you’ll love the scenic and beautiful places we explore as we share the power of storytelling over a cup of tea. We know you’ll love it!

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Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson talk about meditative moments.

We think it’s fair to say that we all have times where life feels frenzied. And it isn’t only because our to-do lists get too long. It’s also because of the pace of the world around us, and our exposure to the news, in whatever way we consume it.

Both Vicki and Wynne start the day with sacred time for meditation. It’s non-negotiable for Wynne so that she can at least start the day with a measure of faith and perspective.

But we know that doesn’t work for everyone. So we talk about our tricks to instill some calm. Vicki tells us about how she sets aside multi-tasking to focus on one thing at a time. And more than that, how to slow tasks to reap the full benefit.