Authors Read: Recent Episodes
Dan
In a January 2026 podcast interview, author Dave Bouche discussed his latest book, "Cliffs of Palos Verdes," with host he the Podcast Authors Read, Dan McLaughlin. Bouche explained that this work differs from his previous writings, as he adopted a distinct persona to narrate the story, inspired by the style of Raymond Chandler. He emphasized the importance of conflict in storytelling, recalling advice from mentor Rob Fulks, which encouraged him to let action drive the narrative. Bouche described the book as a quest filled with intense events, where each chapter functions as a self-contained scene with its own arc and punchline. He also shared insights into the setting of his next book, particularly the San Fernando Valley, highlighting its unique energy and diverse history. The conversation included a reading from his current book, illustrating its dramatic elements and character interactions. This discussion is significant as it sheds light on Bouche's creative process and the thematic depth of his writing, offering listeners a glimpse into the complexities of storytelling and character development.
Along with Denese Cooper, Dan and Mark give silent thanks to the historical accident that the Papacy is centered in Rome, rather than say, Venice or Padua. A lot of words rhyme with Rome. It makes for a better song.
Although come to think of it, Venice is not so bad...
Back in the last century Dan and Mark mimiced the vocal harmonies of the 50's and the social concerns of the 60's with the layered manicured sounds of the 70's and the gritty realism of the 80's. The result? The definitive folk louge act to send the millinum off with a bang. Two Guys from the 70's congeal together the music, the memories and the magic of the decade that never was. Through cover, medleys and orignal material, and audience sharing, Two Guts recapturesan era many thought lost forever.
"I honestly feel that the Band has a Message," says Guy member Mark, "I Really Do."
But more than just a history lesson or a trip down Memory Lane, Two Guys are totally committed to recepturing the emotional honesty of the 1970"s. Their shows are a jotful celebration. They are about you and me. They are about America.
Check them out. You'll hear what you remember.
The Industrial Revloution as told in a different with the language of yesterday.
Dive into Tales of Trials and Magic with Craig Williams!
Hello, literary enthusiasts!
Get ready to embark on a captivating journey as we delve into the latest episode of Authors Read! This time, we are thrilled to feature J. Craig Williams, an accomplished author and trial lawyer, who shares fascinating insights from his book 10 Famous Trials and a heartwarming excerpt from his enchanting children’s book, The Sled.
Curious about the lessons learned from historical events like the Salem Witch Trials? Craig dives deep into the eerie circumstances that surrounded these infamous trials and discusses how religious leaders and a misled populace shaped the drama of the time. You’ll find yourself not just listening, but also reflecting on the implications these events still hold today.
But that’s not all! Craig’s children’s book brings warmth and joy as he recounts the adventures of Naomi, a whimsical character who showcases the power of belief and bravery. With the help of an adorable cast of animal friends, Naomi proves that even the smallest among us can save the day. This delightful story is not only for children; it’s a reminder for all of us about courage and the magic of Christmas.
What’s in it for you? Tune in to discover:
- How Craig transitioned from trial lawyer to author and the delightful stories that inspired his books.
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- Fascinating details about the historical trials that changed the course of history.
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- A sneak peek into the imaginative world of children’s literature where lessons about love and legacy come alive.
This episode promises to be both educational and entertaining, wrapping you in a cozy embrace of nostalgia and newfound knowledge.
Ready to spark your imagination and dive into the trials and tales?
Thank you for being part of our community, and we can’t wait to hear what you think of this episode. Don’t forget to share your thoughts or questions with us right after listening!
Happy listening!
Best regards,
Dan
Author Eli Greenbaum conducted and collected more than100 interviews that detail a side of the war that consumed many, then and to this day in his book "Hell, No, We Didn't Go : Firsthand Accounts of Vietnam War Protest and Resistance." His additional research provides context to the interviews and gives the reader a full sense of what it was like to be part of the last generation of Americans to face the draft.
Dave and Dan banter and discuss Dave's most recent work, a short story collection entitled 9 1/2 Stories (on Amazon) . The story read here is called "Speed Date" which is entirely fictional and in no way reflects any dates encountered by Dave as he courted his lovely wife and mother of his child.
While interviewing Billy about the Faire and Agoura, Billy Scudder felt the urge to share two of his poems. The first was written the day the Faire was torn down and entitled "Pleasure: A Cosmic Current of Spirit by the Green Man. The other is his current work, as yet entitled, which starts,
"We think with vision,
before we can talk with reason."
Dave shares what he learned from Jess Winifeld, Stephen King and the US Border Patrol in this memoir about travelling to Canada with a couple of buddies in a van. With powdered incense purchased from the Renaissance Faire (there is a story there).
Steve Aultman, singing with the iteration of Dogwatch consisting of Shay Black, Jeni Beilharz, Roger Bramble, and Gary Keep, sings the classic shanty "Blow the Man Down", and then reads his own original essay "Apples are Folkloric".
This poem evolved out of an essay Jeffrey wrote about his Bowie-loving best friend, Kent, who in 1974, at age 15 left the stage of life too soon. This poem is harvested from it.
James reads his poem that is what his poetry means to him, and discuses a favorite word that he and his mother shared. The poem can also be found on the back page of his book, It Could Be Verse.
In Chapter 1, we learned it was a dark and stormy night. In Chapter 2, Brian wakes up and finds he was not where he went to sleep the night before.
Having gone to sleep during a dark and stormy night (chapter 1), brother and sister Brian and Alice Latimer awake in 1810 England. Brian is informed that he must marry a local lady to get back home, and there is no insulin (Chapter 2, forthcoming). Alice is determined to find someone responsible and get some. (Chapter 3).