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What happens when war disrupts the creative minds of writers?

In this episode, I conversed with Franco-Moroccan-American writer Jordan Elgrably, editor-in-chief of The Markaz Review, where we delved into the intersection of literature and conflict. Here are some of the highlights of our conversation:

• Middle Eastern writers' anthology: We explore Jordan's latest anthology, Stories from the Center of the World, which showcases the diverse voices of Middle Eastern writers navigating the complexities of the current geopolitical landscape.
• Arab American Authors in Focus: We highlight the remarkable journey of Omar El-Akkad and other Arab American authors, examining how trauma and resilience shape their narratives.
• The Editorial Eye: Jordan shares insider tips for aspiring writers, revealing what it takes to make literary submissions stand out in an evolving publishing landscape that's increasingly embracing diverse voices.

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that celebrates the resilience of creativity in the face of adversity and the promise of more stories to come.

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➡️ P.S: If you find my content useful, you might want to check out my Substack newsletter, in which I talk and vent about the writing life:

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Ever wondered how artificial intelligence is shaking up jobs and our creative landscape?

Join us as we unpack these changes with bestselling author Matt Witten. In this episode, Matt dives into the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists in his latest novel, Killer Story.

He shares insights into the evolving challenges of journalism and how AI might just be the next big disruptor.

From securing an agent to seeing Leonardo DiCaprio's company adapt his book The Necklace into a movie, Matt takes us through the highs and lows of his publishing journey.

We explore his 20-year stint in television and how it influenced his transition back to writing novels.

Whether an AI enthusiast or a budding writer, this episode is packed with invaluable advice and compelling stories you won't want to miss.

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➡️ P.S: If you find my content useful, you might want to check out my Substack newsletter, in which I talk and vent about the writing life:

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In this episode, I sit down with Deborah Kevin, founder and chief inspiration officer of Highlander Press.

We uncover surprising statistics about book sales, discuss the financial intricacies of advances and royalties, and reveal why independent publishers are outpacing traditional ones in today's fast-paced market.

From self-publishing challenges to the nuances of hybrid models, Deborah and I explore the full spectrum of publishing options available to authors today.

Discover how professional editing and design can catapult self-published authors to success and learn about Highlander Press's unique approach to integrating the best of both traditional and independent publishing.

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➡️ P.S: If you find my content useful, you might want to check out my Substack newsletter, in which I talk and vent about the writing life:

Send us a Text Message.

Ever wondered how a book goes from a manuscript to a bestseller?

Join me in this episode as I sit down with Elizabeth Briggs, the editorial director at Saqi Books, who gives an exclusive look behind the scenes at one of Europe's most unique publishing houses.

Elizabeth shares the rich history of Saqi Books, which evolved from Europe's first Arabic language bookshop, and reveals how they continue to amplify bold and inspiring voices from the Arab and Muslim worlds.

Elizabeth also offers a glimpse into her daily routine as a publishing professional in London. From her invigorating cycle commute to the multitude of tasks she juggles, including coordinating with production teams, securing author endorsements, and pitching books to sales teams, she paints a vivid picture of her dynamic role.

We also decode the manuscript submission process and what it takes to get your book noticed. Elizabeth walks us through key industry events like the London Book Fair and Frankfurt, where agents and publishers pitch their next big ideas.

This episode is a must-listen for aspiring authors and anyone fascinated by the evolving landscape of global literature.

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➡️ P.S: If you find my content useful, you might want to check out my Substack newsletter, in which I talk and vent about the writing life:

Send us a Text Message.

Jordanian author and gender activist Fadi Zaghmout is passionate about the transformative landscape of Arabic science fiction.

His novel Heaven on Earth and its sequel portray the prospects of a world free from the clutches of aging and invites reflection on the societal ripples such a future might create.

In our conversation, we scrutinize how these boundary-pushing themes are received in the traditionally conservative Arab society and the growing appetite for narratives that dare to chart the unexplored territories of tomorrow.

We also tackle the shifts in publishing strategies and the promise of platforms like Amazon KDP for Arabic literature.

Don't miss this insightful episode of a rising star in the realm of Arabic literature.

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➡️ P.S: If you find my content useful, you might want to check out my Substack newsletter, in which I talk and vent about the writing life:

Send us a Text Message.

When Mark Ryall coached his daughter Stephanie in competitive running, he forged a bond far beyond the track.

Their story, Run Daughter, Run Father, is not just a training manual – it's a testament to their shared triumphs and a lifelong passion. Inspired by my own journey back into running and writing, this episode celebrates the limitless potential for reinvention.

If you're lacing up for the first time or starting your first draft, remember - age is just a number. Join us for a conversation about endurance and expression, where the starting line is always open.

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➡️ P.S: If you find my content useful, you might want to check out my Substack newsletter, in which I talk and vent about the writing life:

Send us a Text Message.

Can laughter be the best medicine for aging? Humorist Neil Offen thinks so!

He delivers a hilarious and insightful take on the trials and triumphs of boomer life in his book Building a Better Boomer.

Join us as Neil shares his satirical wit and offers a refreshingly honest look at aging. We'll discuss the power of laughter, the evolution of book publishing, and even how to navigate the ever-changing world of social media.

Neil's unique perspective resonates with readers of all ages.

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➡️ P.S: If you find my content useful, you might want to check out my Substack newsletter, in which I talk and vent about the writing life:

Send us a Text Message.

Toby Dorr, is a former prison librarian who made headlines in 2006 for assisting convicted murderer John Manard in a daring escape from the Lansing Correctional Facility in Kansas.

Toby, who faced legal consequences for her role in the escape, shares her side of the story, shedding light on the events that captivated the nation in her new memoir Living with Conviction.

Hear firsthand about the choices she made, the consequences she faced, and what life has been like since her involvement in this infamous prison break.

Don't miss this in-depth conversation with a central figure in one of recent history's most talked-about prison escapes.

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➡️ P.S: If you find my content useful, you might want to check out my Substack newsletter, in which I talk and vent about the writing life: