The Creative Nonfiction Podcast with Brendan O'Meara
The Creative Nonfiction Podcast with Brendan O'Meara is a weekly podcast that showcases leaders in narrative journalism, essay, memoir, documentary film, radio and podcasts about the art and craft of telling true stories. Follow the show @creativenonfictionpodcast on Instagram and Threads and visit patreon.com/cnfpod to support!
Fri, April 25, 2025
Episode 464: John Glionna is a Clown Who Makes Balloons That Kids Don't Like
"We're sadistic motherf*ckers," says John Glionna, @johnglionna on the Instagrams. John is a longtime journalist and author of No Friday Night Lights (Bison Books). He made a name for himself at the Los Angeles Times pursuing what would be called "Glionna stories," stories about invisible people who have rich lives all their own. In this episode we talk about The Glionna Story How John didn’t punch down in his writing Working with Glenn Stout on this book What he loves most about this kind of work And solving that thorny question of whether a story needs better writing or better reporting Podcast Specific Substack at creativenonfictionpodcast.substrack.com. Pre-order The Front Runner Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com
Fri, April 18, 2025
Episode 463: Leah Sottile on Building Scenes, Sagging Middles, and the Fever Dream of the American New Age
"It's kind of a mix of reporting to the very last minute to put off writing, and then when I have to write, having a panic attack, and then, like, booking a hotel room for a week and not leaving that room. This is the thing I have done until I figure it out," says Leah Sottile, in a live event at Gratitude Brewing. She is the author of Blazing Eye Sees All: Love Has Won, False Prophets, and the Fever Dream of the American New Age (Grand Central). She's also the author of When the Moon Turns to Blood, an Oregon Book Award Finalist. Leah is a freelance journalism whose work has appeared in The Atavist Magazine, the Washing Post, High Country News, and Outisde. She's the creator of the podcasts Hush, Burn Wild, and Bundyville. In this podcast we talk about: The work of John Vaillant (See Ep. 376( How writing this book made Leah crazy How New Ageism and Far Right Extremism overlap Sagging Middles And not re-victimizing sources And much more… Learn more about Leah at leahsottile.com and follower her on Instagram @leah.sottile. Podcast Specific Substack at creativenonfictionpodcast.substrack.com. Pre-order The Front Runner Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com
Fri, April 11, 2025
Episode 462: On Podcasting and Gardens with Debbie Millman
"I'm much more interested in how a person achieves something than in what they specifically achieved," says Debbie Millman, the "Pod Mother" and OG podcaster, twenty years in for Design Matters. She's also the author of the new book Love Letter to a Garden (Timber Press). In this episode, we talk about: The 20 year arc of Design Matters What people she’s most drawn to How she views the narrative arc of an interview The research As well as the evergreen themes of her new book on her quest for a garden You can find Debbie at debbiemillman.com and on Instagram @debbiemillman. Podcast Specific Substack at creativenonfictionpodcast.substrack.com. Pre-order The Front Runner Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com
Fri, April 04, 2025
Episode 461: For Nick Davidson, Stories Hunt the Storyteller
Nick Davidson, @nickgdavidson on IG, says, "We usually think of hunting stories and looking for ideas, but I feel like it's the other way around: stories hunt the storyteller, and I'm just prey." Nick's latest piece is for The Atavist Magazine titled "The Balloon That Fell From the Sky." His work has appeared in Outside, VICE Sports, Garden & Gun, and a million other places of note. Podcast Specific Substack at creativenonfictionpodcast.substrack.com. Pre-order The Front Runner Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com
Fri, March 28, 2025
Episode 460:Pulitzer Prize-Winning Biographer Megan Marshall Takes on Personal Essays in 'After Lives'
Megan Marshall is the author of After Lives: On Biography and the Mysteries of the Human Heart (Mariner Books), a new collection of essays. Megan won the Pulitzer Prize in 2014 for Margaret Fuller: A New American Life. Podcast Specific Substack at creativenonfictionpodcast.substrack.com. Pre-order The Front Runner Promotional Sponsor: The Power of Narrative Conference . Use CNF15 at checkout for a 15% discount. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com
Fri, March 21, 2025
Episode 459: Cassidy Randall Talks Forgotten Histories, Sticky Notes, and the Power of Listening
“I could suddenly see — and this is how I know when I'm supposed to start writing — is that words start putting themselves together in my head, and I just have to get them out, right? Which doesn't happen all the time, but it did for this," says Cassidy Randall, author of Thirty Below: The Harrowing and Heroic Story of the First All Women's Ascent of Denali (Abrams Books). Cassidy's work has appeared in National Geographic, the New York Times, Outside Magazine, The Atavist, and many, many others. In this episode we talk about: The beginning and ending Sticky notes The post-book funk Interviewing And so much more Podcast Specific Substack Pre-order The Front Runner Promotional Sponsor: The Power of Narrative Conference . Use CNF15 at checkout for a 15% discount. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, March 14, 2025
Episode 458: Jaydra Johnson Had to Get Weird
"And then this person said, 'Hey, you know, this needs to be, like, more weird or less weird, but it's in this kind of odd place that isn't working.' And I was like, she's so, right," says Jaydra Johnson, @jaydranicole, and author of Low: Notes on Art & Trash (Fonograf). Lots of good stuff in this episode. We talk about: Luck Growing up poor Dialing up the weirdness And binge-buying books on eBay Podcast Specific Substack Pre-order The Front Runner Promotional Sponsor: The Power of Narrative Conference . Use CNF15 at checkout for a 15% discount. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, March 14, 2025
Episode 457: Poynter's Neil Brown Says Editing Isn't Discussed Enough
"What I was fortunate enough to get exposed to very early in my career, and I really believe is now the way to go, which is the nature of editing as thinking," says Poynter Institute president Neil Brown. Neil has spent more than forty years as a reporter and editor, and he just wrapped up his tenure on the Pulitzer Prize Board. He's one of the more nimble minds in journalism and a champion of the editor/writer dynamic. In this conversation, Neil riffs on Editing as thinking The late writing coach Don Murray How the front end is everything Respecting reader detection And Interviewing as a skill, among lots more great stuff. Podcast Specific Substack Pre-order The Front Runner Promotional Sponsor: The Power of Narrative Conference . Use CNF15 at checkout for a 15% discount. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, March 07, 2025
Episode 456: Neko Case Wrote her Memoir in Bed
Neko Case is best known for her career as a musical performing artist and as a founding member of The New Pornographers, but her debut memoir The Harder I Fight the More I Love You (Grand Central) is all the evidence we need to see that she's got the chops for narrative. Podcast Specific Substack Pre-order The Front Runner Promotional Sponsor: The Power of Narrative Conference . Use CNF15 at checkout for a 15% discount. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, March 07, 2025
Episode 455: Will McGrath's Season on the Sidelines for The Believer
Will McGrath often thinks he's a phony, a fake writer, a fake journalist. But he isn't. He's very much real, and his piece for The Believer, "American Boys," chronicles the season and the lives of a group of young basketball players. It harkens back to Darcy Frey's brilliant book The Last Shot. Podcast Specific Substack: https://substack.com/@creativenonfictionpodcast Pre-order The Front Runner Promotional Sponsor: The Power of Narrative Conference . Use CNF15 at checkout for a 15% discount. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, February 28, 2025
Episode 454: Allegra Rosenberg's Tale of Love on Ice for The Atavist
Allegra Rosenberg became obsessed with polar exploration narratives during the pandemic. She soon came across the journals of Harry Pennell and learned of his love for Edward Atkinson. Set amongst the backdrop of the South Pole and the looming possibility of WWI, Allegra weaves a brilliant and tragic story. Pre-order The Front Runner Promotional Sponsor: The Power of Narrative Conference . Use CNF15 at checkout for a 15% discount. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, February 28, 2025
Episode 453: Chandlor Henderson, Live at Gratitude Brewing, Says 'Focus on the Skill'
Chandlor Henderson is the very definition of a multi-hypenate: a writer, editor, comic book writer, filmmaker, and podcaster. This conversation was recorded live at Gratitude Brewing as part of a quarterly series between the Oregon Writers Colony and The Creative Nonfiction Podcast. In this conversation we talk about his journey to Oregon from the East Coast, to focus on skills, and how graphic novels are a great vector for storytelling. Pre-order The Front Runner Promotional Sponsor: The Power of Narrative Conference . Use CNF15 at checkout for a 15% discount. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, February 21, 2025
Episode 452: lamb of god's Randy Blythe's Search for Perspective in 'Just Beyond the Light'
If Randy Blythe's first book, Dark Days, was about accountability, his second book, Just Beyond the Light, is about perspective. In essays ranging from the premature death of a young fan to surfing waves to revering his beloved grandmother, Randy talks about art and music and the messiness of being a creative person. Visit randyblythe.com to learn more and to see dates for his spoken-word tour in support of his latest book. Pre-order The Front Runner Sponsor: The Power of Narrative Conference . Use CNF15 at checkout for a 15% discount. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, February 14, 2025
Episode 451: When Beach Read Meets a System with Lindsay Jill Roth
Lindsay Jill Roth was told by a tutor at a young age that she'd become a writer one day. At the time she laughed, but it came to be. Lindsay is the author of the novel What Pretty Girls Are Made Of and her latest is Romances & Practicalities: A Love Story (Maybe Yours) in 250 Questions. Lindsay talks about the writing of the book, structuring it, and how working in television and radio informed the storytelling mechanics of the book. Pre-order The Front Runner Sponsor: The Power of Narrative Conference . Use CNF15 at checkout for a 15% discount. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, February 07, 2025
Episode 450: Ahead of Super Bowl LIX, John Eisenberg Chronicles the Long Journey of the Black Quarterback
John Eisenberg grew up surrounded by books. It was no surprise then that he wanted to write them one day. He has written eleven, his latest being Rocket Men: The Black Quarterbacks Who Revolutionized Pro Football. Pre-order The Front Runner Sponsor: The Power of Narrative Conference . Use CNF15 at checkout for a 15% discount. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, January 31, 2025
Episode 449: Drew Philp Wants to Make Spanakopita Out of Spinach News
Drew Philp went to Ethiopia to report on the front lines of what was likely a genocide that largely went ignored. His story, " There Will Be No Mercy ," is for The Atavist Magazine. Pre-order The Front Runner Sponsor: The Power of Narrative Conference . Use CNF15 at checkout for a 15% discount. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, January 24, 2025
Episode 448: Evan Ratliff Returns … Or Did He?
Evan Ratliff's work often overlaps with the tech industry whether he's disappearing himself as he did for Wired Magazine, or exploring the murky world of AI voice agents as he did with his blockbuster, smashing, DIY podcast Shell Game. Pre-order The Front Runner Sponsor: The Power of Narrative Conference . Use CNF15 at checkout for a 15% discount. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, January 17, 2025
Episode 447: Brooke Champagne Sits Back from the Suckitude
Brooke Champagne (@champagne_brooke) is a writer in the thick of it: the grind of it, the messiness of it, the working-out-of-it. One minute with Brooke and you know you're in for rollicking fun conversation about the essay, about writing, and about Nola Face: A Latina's Life in the Big Easy (University of Georgia Press). Pre-order The Front Runner Sponsor: The Power of Narrative Conference . Use CNF15 at checkout for a 15% discount. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, January 10, 2025
Episode 446: Harrison Scott Key and the Plight of Memoir
Harrison Scott Key knows how to write a funny book, and he did it again, this time with How to Stay Married: The Most Insane Love Story Ever Told (Avid Reader Press). Only this time, he found a way to find the funny as his marriage was under duress. Pre-order The Front Runner Sponsor: The Power of Narrative Conference . Use CNF15 at checkout for a 15% discount. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, January 03, 2025
Episode 445: For Andrew Dubbins, It's About the Love of the Story
For Andrew Dubbins, stories of this nature are resource intensive, so he’s always seeking the story engine, what drives the narrative forward. In this case, it’s a cops-and-robbers story with sibling discord at the center. It’s that Atavisitan time of the month and we have Andrew Dubbins, a journalist based out of L.A. who tells the tale about the After Dark Bandit: The Police couldn't’ figure out how the perpetrator ripped off two banks at the same time. Until they discovered there wasn't just one robber but a pair of them: identical twin brothers. Pre-order The Front Runner Sponsor: The Power of Narrative Conference . Use CNF15 at checkout for a 15% discount. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, December 27, 2024
Episode 444: Stephanie Gorton Embraces the Messiness
Stephanie Gorton once fretted over her not-neat process of writing books and soon came to embrace her messiness as a feature, not a bug, while she wrote The Icon & the Idealist: Margaret Sanger, Mary Ware Dennett, and the Rivalry That Brought Birth Control to America (Ecco). (Photo credit Sasha Israel) Pre-order The Front Runner Sponsor: The Power of Narrative Conference . Use CNF15 at checkout for a 15% discount. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, December 20, 2024
Episode 443: Jared Sullivan and the Subtle Art of the Cold Call
Jared Sullivan got his start primarily editing and admired the kinds of writers and reporters who do both well, like a David Remnick. Valley So Low is Jared's new book, and it is along the lines of Jonathan Harr’s A Civil Action and illustrates the toll that greed and negligence exert on the people exposed to toxins and the cost cases of this nature take on the legal team, both financial and physical. Jared’s work has appeared in The Atlantic, The New Yorker, Garden & Gun, Men’s Journal, and Field & Stream. Pre-order The Front Runner Sponsor: The Power of Narrative Conference . Use CNF15 at checkout for a 15% discount. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, December 13, 2024
Episode 442: Steven Hyden Revisits Springsteen's 'Born in the USA'
Steven Hyden (@steven_hydenwriter) is a music critic for Uproxx, producer of Break Stuff, the podcast about Woodstock 99, story producer for the the documentary Yacht Rock, and the author of Twilight of the Gods, This Isn’t Happening, Hard to Handle, and Long Road. His latest is There Was Nothing You Could Do: Bruce Springtseen’s ‘Born in the USA’ and the End of the Heartland (Hachette Books). For Steven, he keeps his critic brain and his fan brain fully intact. One needs the other. Gosh, we recorded this back in June, and I’m just about caught up with the really old recordings. In this episode we talk about connections and culture, how a critic has the power to ruin a band or album for you, and losing control of a generational narrative. Really great chat about Pearl Jam, Bruce, and writing a book that provides context to the current time and the era it was forged. Sponsor: The Power of Narrative Conference . Use CNF15 at checkout for a 15% discount. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, December 06, 2024
Episode 441: Seth Wickersham Gets Them Out of the Building
Seth Wickersham (@seth.wickersham on IG) didn't always want to be a sports writer, but he found his way to it by being a high school quarterback, covering the University of Missouri Tigers, and "crashing the party" at the Super Bowl with fellow writers Wright Thompson and Justin Heckert. This episode was a chance to revisit his amazing story on its ten-year anniversary, " Awakening the Giant ," about Y.A. Tittle. Seth also is the author of It's Better to be Feared about the New England Patriots dynasty, a book twenty years in the making. He's a senior writer for ESPN.com and often collaborates with the Pulitzer Prize-winning Don Van Natta Jr. on deeply reported pieces on the NFL. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, November 29, 2024
Episode 440: How to be a Truffle Pig with Kate McQueen
Kate McQueen is the editorial director for the Pollen Initiative and a literary journalist whose work is featured this month for The Atavist Magazine. The story chronicles the story of Carl von Ossietzky, a German journalist imprisoned for his dissent at the start of Hitler's rise to power. A cohort of fellow journalists sought a means to break him out. How did they do it? Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, November 22, 2024
Episode 439: Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz and Paul Peart-Smith Bring a Graphic Interpretation of "An Indigenous People's History of the United States" to Life
Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz and Paul Peart-Smith talk about how and why graphic interpretations are such a powerful vector for storytelling. Roxanne's An Indigenous People's History of the United States is a must-read and Paul's rendering is the perfect gateway in. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, November 15, 2024
Episode 438: How It's All Connected with Taiyon J. Coleman
Taiyon J. Coleman a professor and the author of Traveling without Moving: Essays from a Black Woman Trying to Survive in America (Univ. of Minnesota Press). Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, November 08, 2024
Episode 437: Much Ado About Fact-Checking with Wudan Yan
Wudan Yan (@wudanyan) is a freelancer writer and founder of Factual , a one-of-a-kind agency committed to fact-checking. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, November 01, 2024
Episode 436: Mira Ptacin and the Story of How One Town Drove Out a Nazi
Mira Ptacin (@miramptacin) is a writer and journalist who story, The Crash of the Hammer, ran in The Atavist Magazine. She's also the author of Poor Your Soul and The In-Betweens . Visit magazine.atavist.com to read her story about how a small town in Maine drove out a Neo-Nazi. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, October 25, 2024
Episode 435: Seth Godin Travels at the Speed of Trust in 'This is Strategy'
Seth Godin is the best-selling author of more than twenty books and his latest is This is Strategy: Make Better Plans. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, October 18, 2024
Episode 434: Mirin Fader on Notebooks, Finding the Breakthrough, Biography, and "Dream"
Mirin Fader is a staff writer for The Ringer and the author of Dream: The Life and Legacy of Hakeem Olajuwon. The book chronicles the personal and professional transformation of a transformational figure in wonderful, lucid detail. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, October 11, 2024
Episode 433: The Perils of Playing it Safe with Chase Jarvis
Chase Jarvis is the author of Never Play it Safe: A Practical Guide to Freedom, Creativity, and a Life You Love (Harper Business). Chase was writing a completely different book, was almost done with it, then scrapped it altogether to write what became Never Play it Safe in, oh, about two months. We talk about intuition, why volume/quantity matters, how success leaves clues, and the secret hero of the book. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, October 04, 2024
Episode 432: Betsy Golden Kellem, Scholar of the Unusual, Closet Historian, Atavist Writer
Betsy Golden Kellem (@bgkellem on IG) is a lawyer and historian whose "City on Fire" appears in The Atavist Magazine and chronicles a conspiracy in 1864 by northern Confederate sympathizers to burn Manhattan to the ground. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, September 27, 2024
Episode 431: Sean Enfield, Author of 'Holy American Burnout' Hates the Word Burnout
Sean Enfield (@seanseanclan on IG) is an essayist, education, gardener, bassist, and author of the collection Holy American Burnout (Split/Lip Press). Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, September 20, 2024
Episode 430: Louisa Thomas Knows How to End a Story
Louisa Thomas is a staff writer for The New Yorker and the author Louisa: The Extraordinary Life of Mrs. Adams and Mind and Matter . We talk about a profile she wrote on Nikola Jokic as well as her incredible knack for a great kicker. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, September 13, 2024
Episode 429: What Does It Mean to be a 'Hungry Author'?
Liz Morrow (@liz_morrow) and Ariel Curry (@arielkcurry) are the co-authors of Hungry Authors (@hungryauthors): The Indispensable Guide to Planning, Writing, and Publishing a Nonfiction Book (Rowman & Littlefield). They are a special team and — with their powers combined — created a wonderful guide that is tactical, practical, and informative about how to navigate the business to get your book published. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, September 06, 2024
Episode 428: Brin-Jonathan Butler Remembers Flacco the Owl
Brin-Jonathan Butler is a journalist and author of The Grandmaster and The Domino Diaries . Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, August 30, 2024
Episode 427: Kelsey Rexroat on Dealing with the Monstrosity
Kelsey Rexroat is a freelance journalist and copy editor who recently reported and wrote a brilliant love story for The Atavist Magazine. Visit magazine.atavist.com to read it. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, August 23, 2024
Episode 426: Asking for Blurbs, Unauthorized Biographies, and the Mystery of Aaron Rodgers with Ian O'Connor
Ian O'Connor (@Ian_OConnor) is the author of several best-selling books. His latest is Out of the Darkness: The Mystery of Aaron Rodgers (Mariner Books). Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, August 16, 2024
Episode 425: The Most Brazen of Genres with Madeleine Blais
Madeleine Blais is the author of several books, her latest being Queen of the Court: The Many Lives of Tennis Legend Alice Marble (Grove Press), now out in paperback. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod In the parting shot, I made an error in math referring to the number of hypothetical Mondays remaining in my life. The "correct" number is 1,872. The error has been scrubbed.
Fri, August 09, 2024
Episode 424: Tommy Tomlinson on Aiming for One-Word Summations, the Blurt, and 'Dogland'
Tommy Tomlinson is a journalist and author of Dogland: Passion, Glory, and Lots of Slobber at the Westminster Dog Show (Avid Reader Press). Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, August 02, 2024
Episode 423: Rhana Natour and Eman Mohammed Take You Up Close for The Atavist
Rhana Natour (@rnatourious) and Eman Mohammed (@emanit) collaborated for their Atavist story "Coming to America" about a teenage girl from Gaza who lost her legs in an Israeli airstrike and the journey she's on to walk again. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, July 26, 2024
Episode 422: Thirty Years of "The Last Shot," Lessons from Obstacles, and Old-School Note Taking with Darcy Frey
Darcy Frey is the author of The Last Shot: City Streets, Basketball Dreams , a masterpiece of a book celebrating its 30th anniversary. It's out with a new audio version performed and read by J.D. Jackson. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, July 19, 2024
Episode 421: Cole Heilborn says, "We're Gonna Find What We Find"
Cole Heilborn ( @portsideproductions ) is a filmmaker and found of Port Side Productions, a film company focusing on outdoor storytelling. His film, Inches to Miles , made in partnership with Athletic Brewing, follows three remarkable people as they train up to and compete in the Lake Placid Ironman. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, July 12, 2024
Episode 420: Rebecca Renner Makes the Pig
Rebecca Renner (@rebeccarennerfl) is freelance journalist and the author of Gator Country: Deception, Danger, And Alligators in the Everglades (Flatiron Books). "The reader is the one who creates the scenes. I just give them the ingredients." Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, July 05, 2024
Episode 419: Maggie Gigandet Red Paperclipped Her Way into Freelancing
Maggie Gigandet is a freelance writer whose piece "The Extra Mile" appears in the Atavist Magazine. In this episode we also hear from editor-in-chief Seyward Darby. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, June 28, 2024
Episode 418: Surrendering to the Subconscious with John Julius Reel
John Julius Reel ( @johnjuliusreel ) is a writer, memoirist, and language teacher who lives in Spain with his family. He's the author of My Half Orange: A Story of Love and Language in Seville (Tortoise Books). Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, June 21, 2024
Episode 417: 'Stories Can Save Us' and the Enduring Legacy of Matt Tullis
Justin Heckert (@justinheckert) is a freelance journalist whose work has appeared in countless publications from Esquire to The Ringer, from Garden & Gun to the New York Times Magazine. Justin wrote the afterward to the late Matt Tullis's post-humous book Stories Can Save Us (Univ. of George Press). Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, June 14, 2024
Episode 416: A Lifelong Search for Voice with Acamea Deadwiler
Acamea Deadwiler is an essayist and memoirist and the author of Daddy's Little Stranger. This is a really rich conversation about how her book was once a collection of essays, but she had to rewrite it as a more cohesive memoir, finding voice, breaking down a piece of writing like game tape, and what playing basketball and getting cut taught her about a career in writing. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, June 07, 2024
Episode 415: Sam Jefferies, Hammering Out Screed
Sam Jefferies is the author of Legacy on Ice: Blake Geoffrion and the Fastest Game on Earth (Univ. of Wisconsin Press). Sam talks about how he built scenes, folded in the book writing and reporting around his family and day job, listening to tape on commutes to get the material into his bloodstream, and maintaining a sense of individual style without exhausting the reader. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, May 31, 2024
Episode 414: John Rosengren on Cuts, Note Taking, and Darkness for The Atavist
John Rosengren is a journalist based out of Minnesota whose "Anatomy of a Murder" marks Issue 151 for The Atavist Magazine. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, May 24, 2024
Episode 413: Young Woman and the Sea, from Book to Movie
Glenn Stout is the author of Young Woman and the Sea: How Trudy Ederle Conquered the English Channel and Inspired the World. It's now out in movie theaters and re-issued as a movie tie-in paperback by Mariner Books. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, May 17, 2024
Episode 412: Leaving the Emotional Moments Unsaid with Lilly Dancyger
Lilly Dancyger (@lillydancyger) is a writer and editor whose latest book is First Love: Essays on Friendship (Dial Press). In this episode Lilly talks about her trepidation around writing a true-crime memoir, braided essays, book marketing, and when to let the emotion of the moment do the talking. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, May 10, 2024
Episode 411: The Heart Part and Big Dreams with Isa Adney
Isa Adney (@isaadney) is a writer and documentary producer and the author of The Little Book of Big Dreams: True Stories About People Who Followed a Spark (She Writes Press). Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, May 03, 2024
Episode 410: Brian Fairbanks and "The Last Shall be First"
Brian Fairbanks is an author and journalist whose piece for the 150th issue of the Atavist Magazine, The Last Shall be First, chronicles the actions of a corrupt New Orleans cop and his trail of victims still crying for justice. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, April 26, 2024
Episode 409: Chain Smoking Book Projects with Earl Swift
Earl Swift is the best-selling author of Hell Put to Shame: The 1921 Murder Farm Massacre and the Horror of America's Second Slavery (Mariner Books). In this episode we talk about how Earl strings together book projects and what this story from more than 100 years ago still says about today. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, April 19, 2024
Episode 408: North to Trees, South to Gold with Ruby McConnell
Ruby McConnell (@rubygonewild) is one of our great environmental writers and her latest book is Wilderness and the American Spirit. It's published by Overcup Press. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, April 12, 2024
Episode 407: Alex Squadron Respects the Grind
Alex Squadron is a sports writer for Slam Magazine and the author of Life in the G: Minor League Basketball and the Relentless Pursuit of the NBA. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, April 05, 2024
Episode 406: When to Share a WIP with Darrell Hartman
Darrell Hartman (@dwhartman) is the author of The Battle of Ink and Ice: A Sensational Story of News Barons, North Pole Explorers, and the Making of Modern Media. It is published by Viking. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, March 29, 2024
Episode 405: Hallie Lieberman and the Drawer of Dead Pitches
Hallie Lieberman (@hallielieberman) is a journalist, writer, and historian. She's the author of Buzz: A Stimulating History of the Sex Toy. Her latest piece for The Atavist is "The Handcuff Man." Visit magazine.atavist.com to read it. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, March 22, 2024
Episode 404: Hanif Abdurraqib's Nod to Witnessing in 'There's Always This Year'
Hanif Abdurraqib is poet, critic, and author of several books, including There's Always This Year: On Basketball and Ascension (Random House). In this episode we talk about his nod to witnessing, specificity, intentionality, making it, and LeBron James. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, March 15, 2024
Episode 403: Elizabeth Rush Moves Toward Exactitude
Elizabeth Rush is the author of The Quickening: Creation and Community at the Ends of the Earth (Milkweed). Liz talks about writing toward exactitude, lyricing her way through sticking points, being a character in her own work, and voice. For a couple weeks, visit combeyond.bu.edu , use the promo code NARRATIVE25 at checkout and get 25% your tuition for the two-day Power of Narrative Conference. And, no, I don’t get any dough. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, March 08, 2024
Episode 402: The Stentorian-Voiced Dudely Bro-ness of Rob Harvilla
Rob Harvilla (@harvilla on X) is a staff writer for The Ringer and the host and creator of the long-running 60 Songs that Explain the 90s. His first book is 60 Songs that Explain the 90s. We talk about the end of the podcast, the evolution of voice, and the maze he purposefully escapes each episode. For a couple weeks, visit combeyond.bu.edu , use the promo code NARRATIVE25 at checkout and get 25% your tuition for the two-day Power of Narrative Conference. And, no, I don’t get any dough. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, March 01, 2024
Episode 401: Jessica Camille Aguirre on Racking Up Rejections, Online Nothing Burgers, and The Atavist's "Watch It Burn"
Jessica Camille Aguirre (@jessicacaguirre) is a freelance journalist and wrote "Watch it Burn" for The Atavist Magazine. In this episode we talk about racking up rejections, voice, and what makes climate stories drag. For a couple weeks, visit combeyond.bu.edu , use the promo code NARRATIVE25 at checkout and get 25% your tuition for the two-day Power of Narrative Conference. And, no, I don’t get any dough. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, February 23, 2024
Episode 400: Richard Blanco on Fever Writing and Finding the Poem within the Poem
Richard Blanco was the Presidential Inaugural poet at Pres. Obama's second inauguration, a winner of the National Humanities Award medal, and the author of Homeland of My Body (Beacon Press). Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, February 16, 2024
Now in Paperback: 'Simple is the Way to Go' with Mirin Fader
This originally aired on December 10, 2021 as Episode 291. Mirin Fader is the author of Giannis: The Improbably Rise of an MVP and a staff writer writing features for The Ringer. She is @mirinfader on social media. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, February 09, 2024
Now in Paperback: Leslie Jamison — Make It Scream, Make It Burn, and the Bounded Infinity of Nonfiction
This originally aired on September 27, 2019 as Episode 170. Leslie Jamison is the best selling author of several books including Make it Scream, Make it Burn. She has a new book out (not talked about in this paperback edition) called Splinters: Another Kind of Love Story. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, February 02, 2024
Episode 399: William Ralston Recounts a Harrowing Rescue for The Atavist
William Ralston is a freelance journalist based out of the UK. In this episode, we talk about his Atavist piece "Mayday." Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, January 26, 2024
Episode 398: Emily Sohn Explores the Complicated Legacy of Virginia Kraft
Emily Sohn is a freelance journalist and wrote "The Catch," a gripping profile of pioneering sports writer Virginia Kraft for Long Lead. Emily talks about how she arrived at the story, writing through the research, and the dark night of the soul of a piece of writing. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, January 19, 2024
Now in Paperback: Howard Bryant says, 'Everybody Gets Forgotten'
This originally aired on June 10, 2022 as Episode 320. Howard Bryant is the bestselling author of several books, including Rickey: The Life and Legend of an American Original (Mariner Books). Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, January 12, 2024
Now in Paperback: Matt Bell Refuses to be Done, Dammit
This episode originally aired on March 4, 2022 as Episode 305 Matt Bell is the author of the craft book Refuse to be Done: How to Write and Rewrite a Novel in Three Drafts. It's published by Soho. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, January 05, 2024
Episode 397: Leah Sottile Riffs on Kurt Vonnegut's Rules on Writing
Leah Sottile is the author of When the Moon Turns to Blood, which is now out in paperback. She added a new chapter that concludes the Lori Vallow saga. Leah also talks about: Kurt Vonnegut's rules on writing Writing about overlooked people And putting a bow on her first book Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, December 29, 2023
Episode 396: Rae Nudson on Earning Trust, The Atavist, and the Pint-of-Ice-Cream Moment
Rae Nudson is a journalist and author and she's on the show to talk about her piece for The Atavist Magazine. We also hear from Atavist editor-in-chief Seyward Darby as we close out 2023. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, December 22, 2023
Now in Paperback: Jackie MacMullan on the Fear of Failure, Writing that Teaches You, and the Final Chapter of 'Best American Sports Writing'
This originally aired as Episode 244 on February 26, 2021. Jackie MacMullan is a long time sports writer for The Boston Globe, ESPN.com, and author of several best-selling books covering the NBA. She was the final guest editor of The Best American Sports Writing series. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, December 15, 2023
Episode 395: "The Six," Mini-Deadlines and the Twang with Loren Grush
Loren Grush is a space journalist for Bloomberg and the author of The Six: The Untold Story of America's First Women Astronauts . In this episode, Loren talks about: Centering women in space Mini-deadlines And what is the "twang"? Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, December 08, 2023
Episode 394: Athena Dixon is OK with the Plateau
Athena Dixon is the author of The Loneliness Files (Tin House) and The Incredible Shrinking Woman. Her work has appeared in Hippocampus Magazine, Lit Hub, and The Rumpus. In this episode, Athena talks about: Writing quietly Being OK with the plateau Throat clearing And how to find a damn residency Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, December 01, 2023
Episode 393: Katya Cengel and Finding Enough 'There' There for The Atavist
Katya Cengel (@kcengel) is a journalist and author who wrote "The Truth is Out There" for The Atavist Magazine. In this episode we also here from editor Jonah Ogles on: What sets pitches over the top Pitching multiple times And trust Katya takes over and talks about: Untidy endings Earning trust with sources And finding enough 'there' there Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @creativenonfiction podcast on IG and Threads Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, November 24, 2023
Now in Paperback: Susan Orlean on Writing for an Audience and the Entrepreneurial Nature of a Writing Career
This episode originally aired as Episode 61 on August 11, 2017. Susan Orlean is the best selling author of The Library Book, The Orchid Thief , and Rin Tin Tin . She's a longtime staff writer for The New Yorker and you can find her on Threads @susanorlean. In this episode, Susan talks about: always having an audience in mind having supreme focus and needing to see yourself as a business person if you plan on doing this type of work Subscribe to the podcast wherever and check out the show notes and the Rage Against the Algorithm newsletter at brendanomeara.com.
Fri, November 17, 2023
Episode 392: Damon Brown Goes from Zero to 18,000
Damon Brown is an author, entrepreneur, and coach and his latest book is The Complete Bring Your Worth Collection. In this episode, we talk about: How he grew is YouTube channel from 0 to 18K The BYW Collection as capstone And how obscurity is your friend ... to a point Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Social: @creativenonfictionpodcast on IG and Threads
Fri, November 10, 2023
Now in Paperback: Glenn Stout on Combining the Things You Love, Effort, and the Poem That 'Knocked Him on his Ass'
This episode originally aired on December 6, 2015. Glenn Stout is a brilliant editor and writer. He's the author of Young Woman and the Sea, The Selling of the Babe, and Tiger Girl and Candy Kid. Here, we revisit the first of his many times on the pod to talk about: Effort How none of this makes sense Why we continue to tell stories And a whole lot more! Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Social: @creativenonfictionpodcast on IG and Threads
Fri, November 03, 2023
Episode 391: For the Atavist Magazine, Lily Hyde Takes Us to Ukraine
In " Two Thousand Miles from Home ," journalist Lily Hyde chronicles the unbelievable true story of three pregnant women torn apart by war. Lily talks about how she hates every thing she writes, struggling with the invasiveness of journalism, and how she earned the truest of her central figures. Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Social: @creativenonfictionpodcast on IG and Threads
Fri, October 27, 2023
Episode 390: How Did the Pitcher Pedro Martinez Help Will Harrison's Writing?
Will Harrison is an instructor at the School for Visual Arts in New York City as well the author of several essays including "My Unlikely Writing Teacher: Pedro Martinez" for the New York Times Magazine. Will talks about: How slow of a writer he is How voice just emerges over time And how "pitch selection" is akin to how you vary your sentences Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Sponsor: Liquid IV, promo code cnf Social: @creativenonfictionpodcast on IG and Threads
Fri, October 20, 2023
Now in Paperback: Dinty W. Moore on the Gift of Feedback, Reading Like a Mechanic, and Patience
This originally aired as Episode 49 on May 19, 2017. “The people I know who fail as writers … lack patience, stubbornness.” Dinty W. Moore is the founder of Brevity Magazine and the author of several books including The Story Cure: A Book Doctor's Pain-Free Guide to Finishing Your Novel or Memoir . In this episode we talk about: Patience Voice Getting inspired instead of dejected by feedback And the power of dozens of drafts Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Sponsor: Liquid IV, promo code cnf Social: @creativenonfictionpodcast on IG and Threads
Fri, October 13, 2023
Episode 388: Agency, Empathy, and the Ethics of Writing True Crime with Kim H. Cross
"I try to minimize harm and maximize truth," says Kim H. Cross, author of In Light of All Darkness: Inside the Polly Klaas Kidnapping and the Search for America's Child (Grand Central Publishing). In this episode we touch on: Giving people agency The ethics of writing true crime Being a human first and a journalist second, And the importance of setting up writing retreats for yourself Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Sponsor: Liquid IV, promo code cnf Social: @creativenonfictionpodcast on IG and Threads
Fri, October 06, 2023
Now in Paperback: Andre Dubus III
This originally aired as Episode 54 on June 23, 2017. Andre Dubus III is the author of the memoir Townie and the novels The House of Sand and Fog and Such Kindness. Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Sponsor: Liquid IV, promo code cnf Social: @creativenonfictionpodcast on IG and Threads
Fri, September 29, 2023
Episode 387: Tom Donaghy
Tom Donaghy explored the murder of the "Fudge King" of Ocean City for The Atavist Magazine. Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Sponsor: Liquid IV, promo code cnf
Fri, September 22, 2023
Now in Paperback: Jericho Brown
“A poet is a special kind of nerd.” —Jericho Brown This episode originally ran as Ep. 148 Jericho Brown is the Pulitzer Prize—winning poet behind The Tradition. Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Sponsor: Liquid IV, promo code cnf
Fri, September 15, 2023
Episode 386: Lana Hall
Lana Hall is a journalist and essayist based out of Toronto, Canada. Her essay "We Are All Animals at Night" ran in Hazlitt. Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Sponsor: Liquid IV, promo code cnf
Fri, September 08, 2023
Now in Paperback: Mary Karr
This is a rerun and originally published as Ep. 100. Mary Karr is the author of the poetry collection Tropic of Squalor and the memoirs Lit, Cherry, and The Liar's Club. Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Sponsor: Liquid IV, promo code cnf
Fri, September 01, 2023
Episode 385: Robert Kolker
Robert Kolker is the best selling author of Hidden Valley Road and Lost Girls . He's on the show to talk about his Atavist piece "Dead Reckoning." Newsletter: ragegainstthealgorithm.beehiiv.com/subscribe Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @CNFPod and @creativenonfictionpodcast Sponsor: Liquid IV, promo code cnf Suds: Athletic Brewing, promo BRENDANO20
Fri, August 25, 2023
Episode 384: Nicholas Dighiera
Nicholas Dighiera is a writer whose work has appeared in Short Reads, River Teeth, Catamaran, and Under the Gum Tree, among many others. Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com Social: @CNFPod and @creativenonfictionpodcast
Fri, August 18, 2023
I Hate Author Readings (And How to Fix Them)
Author readings ... they mostly suck. Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Social: @ CNFPod or @ creativenonfictionpodcast
Fri, August 11, 2023
Episode 383: Pete Croatto
Pete Croatto is a freelance writer and author of From Hang Time to Prime Time. He's back to talk about that strange post-book period. Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm on Beehiiv Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @CNFPod and @creativenonfictionpodcast
Fri, August 04, 2023
Episode 382: Lucy Sexton and Joe Sexton
Lucy Sexton and Joe Sexton, father and daughter, team up for this braided piece for The Atavist titled " Held Together ." Newsletter: Rage Against the Algorithm Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Suds: Athletic Brewing.com, promo code BRENDANO20
Fri, July 28, 2023
Episode 381: Michael Finkel
Michael Finkel is the author of The Art Thief: A True Story of Passion, Obsession, and a Monumental Crime Spree . Substack: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod
Fri, July 21, 2023
Episode 380: Wudan Yan
Wudan Yan is a freelancer writer, journalist, coach, podcaster, fact checker, hiker. She wrote about food contamination for Undark. Substack: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Suds: Athleticbrewing.com , promo code BRENDANO20
Fri, July 14, 2023
Episode 379: Alison Mariella Desir
Alison Mariella Desir (@alisonmdesir) is an activist, marathoner, and author of Running While Black: Finding Freedom in a Sport That Wasn't Built for Us . Substack: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Sponsor: Liquid IV, promo code cnf Suds: Athletic Brewing.com, promo code BRENDANO20
Fri, July 07, 2023
Episode 378: Steven Moore
Steven Moore is the author of The Distance from Slaughter County: Lessons from Flyover Country (UNC Press). Show notes: brendanomeara.com Substack: Rage Against the Algorithm Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Sponsor: Liquid IV, code cnf Suds: Athletic Brewing, code BRENDANO20
Fri, June 30, 2023
Episode 377: Carlos Barragan
Carlos Barragan is a journalist and MFA student at the Columbia School of Journalism and his piece for The Atavist is " The Romance Scammer on My Sofa. " Substack: Rage Against the Algorithm Sponsor: Liquid IV, promo code cnf Show notes: brendanomeara.com Suds: Athletic Brewing, promo code BRENDANO20
Fri, June 23, 2023
Episode 376: John Vaillant
John Vaillant (@johnvaillant) is the author four books including Fire Weather: A True Story from a Hotter World (Knopf). Show notes: brendanomeara.com Substack: Rage Against the Algorithm Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Sponsor: Liquid IV, code: cnf Suds: Athletic Brewing, code: BRENDANO20
Fri, June 16, 2023
Episode 375: Hattie Fletcher and Stephen Knezovich
Hattie Fletcher and Stephen Knezovich are part of a team that started Short Reads, short-reads.org a weekly email dispatch of flash nonfiction. Substack: Rage Against the Algorithm Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Sponsor: Liquid IV , promo code cnf Suds: Athletic Brewing , promo code BRENDANO20
Fri, June 09, 2023
Episode 374: Christine Yu
Christine Yu is the author of Up to Speed: The Groundbreaking Science of Women Athletes (Riverhead Books). Substack: Rage Against the Algorithm Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Sponsor: Liquid IV, promo code CNF Suds: Athletic Brewing, promo code BRENDANO20
Fri, June 02, 2023
Episode 373: Seth Godin
Seth Godin is the author of more than 20 books, including his latest The Song of Significance: A New Manifesto for Teams. Sponsor: Liquid IV, and use promo code CNF Substack: Rage Against the Algorithm Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Suds: Athletic Brewing , promo code BRENDANO20
Wed, May 31, 2023
Episode 372: Anna Altman
Anna Altman is a freelance journalist. This is her second time writing for The Atavist. Substack: Rage Against the Algorithm Social: @CNFPod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Suds: Athletic Brewing, use BRENDANO20 at checkout
Sat, May 27, 2023
Episode 371: Jen A. Miller
Jen A. Miller (@ByJenAMiller) is a freelance writer and author o f Freelance Writing for Laid-Off Journalists (and Those Who Want to Quit) . Substack: rageagainstthealgorithm.substack.com Social: @CNFPod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, May 26, 2023
Episode 371: Jen A. Miller
Jen A. Miller (@ByJenAMiller) is a freelance writer and author o f Freelance Writing for Laid-Off Journalists (and Those Who Want to Quit) . Substack: rageagainstthealgorithm.substack.com Social: @CNFPod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, May 19, 2023
Discovery and Writing Before You're Ready
A couple crafty-type essays this week. Substack: Rage Against the Algorithm Social: @CNFPod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, May 12, 2023
Episode 370: Christopher McDougall
Christopher McDougall ( @ChrisMcDougall ) is the author of Born to Run and Born to Run 2: The Ultimate Training Guide. Show notes: brendanomeara.com Substack: rageagainstthealgorithm.substack.com Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, May 05, 2023
Episode 369: Akeem S. Roberts
Akeem S. Roberts (@akeemteam) is an illustrator, animator, and cartoonist who regularly draws for The New Yorker. Substack: rageagainstthealgorithm.substack.com Social: @CNFPod Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com
Mon, May 01, 2023
Episode 368: Tyler Hooper
Tyler Hooper ( @thooper8 ) is the writer behind The Atavist Magazine piece " Titanic of the Pacific ." Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Substack: rageagainstthealgorithm.substack.com Show notes: brendanomeara.com
Fri, April 28, 2023
Episode 367: Reid Mitenbuler
Reid Mitenbuler (@reidmitenbuler) is the author of Wanderlust: An Eccentric Explorer, an Epic Journey, a Lost Age (Mariner Books). Substack: rageagainstthealgorithm.substack.com Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com
Fri, April 21, 2023
Episode 366: David Grann
David Grann is the best-selling author behind The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder . He's also the author Killers of the Flower Moon, The Lost City of Z, and The Devil & Sherlock Holmes . Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Substack: rageagainstthealgorithm.substack.com Show notes: brendanomeara.com
Fri, April 14, 2023
Episode 365: Maggie Smith
Maggie Smith is a poet and the author of You Could Make This Place Beautiful. Substack: rageagainstthealgorithm.substack.com Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, April 07, 2023
Episode 364: Mitchell S. Jackson
Mitchell S. Jackson is the Pulitzer Prize-winning writer of "Twelve Minutes and a Life" for his piece on Ahmaud Arbery for Runners World. He's also the author of Survival Math: Notes from an All-American Family and the novel The Residue Years. Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Substack: rageagainstthealgorithm.substack.com
Fri, March 31, 2023
Episode 363: Eric Pape
Eric Pape ( @ericpape ) is a freelance journalist and journalism instructor. In this conversation, Eric talks about his piece for The Atavist Magazine . We also hear from editor-in-chief of The Atavist Seyward Darby. Social: @CNFPod Substack: rageagainstthealgorithm.substack.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com
Fri, March 24, 2023
Episode 362: Svati Kirsten Narula
Svati Kirsten Narula ( @svatikirsten ) is an editor and journalist whose " A Mountain Called Her Home " is a wonderful feature that ran in Outside Magazine about the life and death of Nanda Devi Unsoeld. Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod Substack: rageagainstthealgorithm.substack.com
Fri, March 17, 2023
Episode 361: Ari Shapiro
Ari Shapiro ( @arishapiro ) is the host of NPR's All Things Considered and the author of the memoir The Best Strangers in the World: Stories from a Life Spent Listening (HarperCollins). Social: @CNFPod Substack: rageagainstthealgorithm.substack.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com N/A Beer Discount: athleticbrewing.com , use BRENDANO20 at checkout
Fri, March 10, 2023
Episode 360: Elizabeth Gonzalez James
Elizabeth Gonzalez James is a novelist and essayist whose chapbook Five Conversations About Peter Sellers (Texas Review Press) puts the creative in creative nonfiction. Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show Notes: Brendanomeara.com Substack: rageagainstthealgorithm.substack.com
Tue, February 28, 2023
Episode 359: Shannon McCaffrey
Shannon McCaffrey (@shannonajc1) is the author and reporter behind "Sanctuary," a love story of sorts, for this month's issue of The Atavist . We also hear from Atavist editor-in-chief Seyward Darby (@seywarddarby). Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Substack: rageagainstthealgorithm.substack.com Beer discount: athleticbrewing.com, enter code BRENDANO20 at checkout.
Fri, February 24, 2023
Episode 358: Erica J. Berry
Erica J. Berry ( @ericajberry ) is back, this time to talk about her book Wolfish: Wolf, Self, and the Stories We Tell About Fear (Flatiron Books). Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com Beer discount: athleticbrewing.com , enter BRENDANO20 at checkout for a discount.
Fri, February 17, 2023
Episode 357: Adam Popescu
Adam Popescu ( @adampopescu ) is a Los Angeles-based journalist and writer and he recently wrote about his trip to Congo and the first national park to mine for Bitcoin . Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com Athletic Brewing discount, enter BRENDANO20 at checkout .
Fri, February 10, 2023
Episode 356: Siku Allooloo
Siku Allooloo ( @discobou on IG) is a writer, poet, and filmmaker and we talk about her essays "Caribou People" and "Living Death." Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Newsletter/show notes: brendanomeara.com
Fri, February 03, 2023
Episode 355: Flinder Boyd
Flinder Boyd (@FlinderBoyd) is a freelance journalist whose piece "20 Minutes in Rucker Park" turns ten this year. He's also a filmmaker and a former professional basketball player. Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Tue, January 31, 2023
Episode 354: Nile Cappello
Nile Cappello (@liketheriver_) returns to talk about her Atavist piece for Feb. 2023. Social: @CNFPod Show notes/Newsletter: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, January 27, 2023
Episode 353: Isaac Fitzgerald
Isaac Fitzgerald is the author of Dirtbag, Massachusetts: A Confession (Bloomsbury) and a frequent contributor to The Today Show. Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, January 20, 2023
Episode 352: Lauren Fleshman
Lauren Fleshman is the author of Good for a Girl: A Woman Running in a Man's World (Penguin Press). Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, January 13, 2023
Episode 351: Leah Sottile
Leah Sottile (@LeahSottile) is a freelance journalist and her latest project is Burn Wild, a podcast about eco-terrorism and the lengths people will go to save the planet. Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, January 06, 2023
Episode 350: Damon Brown
Damon Brown is the author of many books including Career Remix and Build from Now, and a content creator at youtube.com/@browndamon and career coach. Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, December 30, 2022
Episode 349: Madeline Bodin
Madeline Bodin is the writer behind " The Curious Case of Nebraska Man " for the Atavist Magazine. Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/Newsletter: brendanomeara.com N/A Beer Discount: Visit athleticbrewing.com , enter BRENDANO20 at checkout
Fri, December 30, 2022
Audio Magazine Issue 3: Heroes
Michael Cuglietta, Andrew Sottile, Lori Sebastianutti, and Shawna Kenney bring you essays on the theme "Heroes." Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod or @creativenonfictionpodcast Show notes/newsletters: brendanomeara.com
Fri, December 23, 2022
Episode 348: Carl Hoffman
Carl Hoffman (@lunaticcarl on Twitter, @carlhoffmanstories on IG) is the author of five books, inclucing Liar's Circus: A Strange and Terrifying Journey into the Upside-Down World of Trump's MAGA Rallies (Custom House). Social: @CNFPod Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, December 16, 2022
Episode 347: Emily Fox Kaplan
Emily Fox Kaplan is a freelance journalist and she's featured in Issue 8 of Pipewrench Magazine for her piece "Searching for Zarahemla." Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, December 09, 2022
Episode 346: Lyndsie Bourgon
Lyndsie Bourgon (@lbourgon) is a freelance writer, journalist, and oral historian and author of Tree Thieves: Crime and Survival in North America's Woods. Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com Social: @CNFPod and @creativenonfictionpodcast
Wed, November 30, 2022
Episode 345: Sarah Souli
Sarah Souli is a freelance journalist whose piece " A Matter of Honor " was this month's Atavist Magazine feature. Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, November 25, 2022
Episode 344: Rachel Dickinson
Rachel Dickinson is the author The Loneliest Places: Loss, Grief, and the Long Journey Home (Three Hills Press). Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, November 18, 2022
Episode 343: Kristina R. Gaddy
Kristina R. Gaddy is the author of Well of Souls: Uncovering the Banjo's Hidden History. Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, November 11, 2022
Episode 342: Remembering Philip Gerard
Philip Gerard was a beloved writer and instructor. He was the author of several books including The Art of Creative Research, The Last Battleground, and Cape Fear Rising. Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, November 04, 2022
Episode 341: Isidra Mencos
Isidra Menco (@isidramencos) is the author of Promenade of Desire. It is published by She Writes Press. Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod Show notes: brendanomeara.com
Mon, October 31, 2022
Episode 340: J.B. MacKinnon
J.B. MacKinnon is a freelance writer based out of Vancouver, BC. His piece, "True Grit," appears in the November issue of the Atavist Magazine. Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, October 28, 2022
Episode 339: Jeff Pearlman
Jeff Pearlman is the New York Times bestselling author of The Last Folk Hero: The Life and Myth of Bo Jackson (Mariner Books). Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, October 21, 2022
Episode 338: Remembering Matt Tullis
Matt Tullis was a professor, author, journalist, and podcaster. Tullis Go Fund Me page: https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-tullis-family Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, October 07, 2022
Episode 337: Ander Monson
Ander Monson (@angermonsoon) is the author of Predator: A Memoir, A Movie, An Obsession. Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @CNFPod Beer Discount: athleticbrewing.com , promo code BRENDANO20
Fri, September 30, 2022
Episode 336: Cassidy Randall
Cassidy Randall ( @cassidyjrandall ) is a freelance writer based out of Montana and she is October's featured Atavist writer. Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com Beer Discount!: athleticbrewing.com , promo code BRENDANO20
Fri, September 23, 2022
Episode 335: Steve Brusatte
Steve Brusatte (@SteveBrusatte) is the author of "The Rise and Reign of the Mammals" and a professor/research/paleontologist at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Beer Discount: athleticbrewing.com , code BRENDANO20
Fri, September 16, 2022
Episode 334: Katrina Miller
Katrina Miller (@__katrinarenee) is a physicist and writer who recently had a wonderful essay about trailblazing Black women in the physical sciences for Wired Magazine. Social: @CNFPod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Beer discount: athleticbrewing.com , promo code BRENDANO20
Fri, September 09, 2022
Episode 333: Malaka Gharib
Malaka Gharib (@malakagharib on IG) is a cartoonist and author of the graphic memoir It Won't Always Be Like This (Ten Speed Press). Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com N/A Beer discount: athleticbrewing.com , promo code BRENDANO20
Fri, September 02, 2022
Episode 332: David Maraniss
David Maraniss is the winner of the Pulitzer Prize and the author of several biographies, his latest being Path Lit by Lightning: The Life of Jim Thorpe. Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com Beer Discount: athleticbrewing.com , code BRENDANO20
Wed, August 31, 2022
Episode 331: Seyward Darby
Seyward Darby is the editor-in-chief for The Atavist Magazine and the author of Sisters in Hate. Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Beer discount: athleticbrewing.com , use BRENDANO20 for discount. Newsletter: brendanomeara.com Social: @CNFPod
Fri, August 26, 2022
Episode 330: Kim H. Cross
Kim H. Cross is a freelance writer, an instructor, a mountain bike head coach and author of The Stahl House. Social: @CNFPod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, August 19, 2022
Episode 329: Alexandra Lytton Regalado
Alexandra Lytton Regalado (@alexlregalado) is the author of Relinquenda, a collection of poems published by Beacon Press. Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com Social: @CNFPod
Fri, August 12, 2022
Episode 328 [RERUN]: My #HippoCamp21 Talk — In Their Words: Lessons Learned from the Best of The Creative Nonfiction Podcast
In honor of HippoCamp22, I'm re-upping my HippoCamp21 talk. Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, August 05, 2022
Episode 327: Donna Talarico, HippoCamper
Donna Talarico is here to talk about HippoCamp22, the seventh iteration of the writer's conference focusing solely on creative nonfiction. If you use the promo code CNFPOD22 at checkout, you get $89 off your registration fee. Go to hippocampusmagazine.com/conference. Sponsor: Libsyn Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com Social: @CNFPod
Fri, July 29, 2022
Episode 326: Jana Meisenholder
Jana Meisenholder (@addsodium on Twitter) is a journalist whose latest piece appears in The Atavist Magazine. Sponsor: Libsyn Social: @CNFPod Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Shownotes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, July 22, 2022
Episode 325: Kerri Sullivan
Kerri Sullivan is the editor behind New Jersey Fan Club: Artists and Writers Celebrate the Garden State (Rutgers University Press). Sponsor: Libsyn.com promo code FRIEND Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod Show notes and newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, July 08, 2022
Episode 324: Chris Solomon
Chris Solomon is a contributing editor to Outside Magazine. We talk about his work for GQ, Outside, and freelancing in general. Sponsor: Athletic Greens Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, July 01, 2022
Episode 323: Leigh Baldwin and Sean Williams
Leigh Baldwin and Sean Williams co-wrote and co-reported "Follow the Leader" for the July issue of The Atavist Magazine. We also hear from lead editor Jonah Ogles. Social: @CNFPod Sponsor: Athletic Greens Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, June 24, 2022
Episode 322: Leah Sottile
Leah Sottile (@leahsottile) is the author of When the Moon Turns to Blood (12 Books) and the producer behind the podcast Bundyville. Sponsor: Athletic Greens Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, June 17, 2022
Episode 321: Ruby McConnell
Ruby McConnell (@rubygonewild) is the author of Ground Truth and A Woman's Guide to the Wild. Sponsor: Athletic Greens Social: @CNFPod Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, June 10, 2022
Episode 320: Howard Bryant
Howard Bryant (@hbryant42) is a senior writer for ESPN and the author of several books, including Rickey: The Life and Legend of an American Original (Mariner Books). Sponsor: Athleticgreens.com/emerging Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, June 03, 2022
Episode 319: Neal Bascomb
Neal Bascomb is the author of several book and these days he's most excited about his newsletter Work/Craft/Life (workcraftlife.substack.com). Sponsor: Athletic Greens Support: Patreon Social: @CNFPod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Tue, May 31, 2022
Episode 318: Greg Donahue
Greg Donahue (@GregJDonahue) is a freelance journalist and the author and reporter behind the Atavist original " The Fugitive Next Door ." Social: @CNFPod Sponsor: Athletic Greens Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/newsletters: brendanomeara.com
Fri, May 27, 2022
Episode 317: Brad Listi
Brad Listi is the author of Be Brief and Tell Them Everything. He's also the host the wildly popular Otherppl podcast (@otterppl). Sponsor: Athletic Greens Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, May 20, 2022
Episode 316: Chip Scanlan
Chip Scanlan returns to talk about his new book 33 Ways to Not Screw Up Your Journalism. Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Sponsor: Athletic Greens Social: @CNFPod Newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, May 13, 2022
Episode 315: Tad Friend
Tad Friend is a staff writer for The New Yorker and the author of the memoir In the Early Times: A Life Reframed (Crown). Social: @CNFPod Sponsor: Athletic Greens Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Show Notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, May 06, 2022
Episode 314: How 'Top Chef' Can Help Your Writing
No interview this week. Instead a short craft essay on how chefs can help us be better writers. Sponsor: Athletic Greens, athleticgreens.com/EMERGING Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @CNFPod
Fri, April 29, 2022
Episode 313: Katia Savchuk
Katia Savchuk (@katiasav) is a freelancer journalist and wrote an incredible piece for The Atavist Magazine. We talk to her as well as editor-in-chief Seyward Darby. Social: @CNFPod Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, April 22, 2022
Episode 312: Meredith May
Meredith May returns to talk about her new book Loving Edie: How a Dog Afraid of Everything Taught Me to be Brave (Park Row Books). Social: @CNFPod Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes and the Rage Against the Algorithm newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, April 15, 2022
Episode 311: Jane Friedman
Jane Friedman returns! We talk about her smattering of webinars, building author platform, and finding ways to "surprise" your readers. Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod Show notes: brendanomeara.com
Fri, April 08, 2022
Episode 310: Leah Flickinger
Leah Flickinger is a features editor for Bicycling Magazine, Runner's World, and more. She edited Mitchell S. Jackson's "Twelve Minutes and a Life," which won the Pulitzer Prize in feature writing. Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Thu, March 31, 2022
Episode 309: Kelly Loudenberg
Kelly Loudenberg is a filmmaker and journalist and she's here to talk about her piece for The Atavist. In this episode, we also hear from editor-in-chief Seyward Darby. Show notes and newsletter: brendanomeara.com Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod
Fri, March 25, 2022
Episode 308: The Year the Mountain of Manure Was Hit By a Flood
In a departure from your normally scheduled programming, we bring you a new spin on an old favorite. This is a reimagining of the conversation with the unbreakable Laura Hillenbrand. Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, March 18, 2022
Episode 307: Greg Brennecka
Greg Brennecka is a cosmochemist and studies meteors. He is the auhthor of Impact: How Rocks from Space Led to Life, Culture, and Donkey Kong (William Morrow, 2022). Social: @CNFPod Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com
Fri, March 11, 2022
Episode 306: Dan Schwartz
Dan Schwartz (@danjschwartz) is a freelance investigative journalist based out of Colorado. He's got a new piece in the Atlantic about climate change and how local weathermen are the most trusted people to sound the alarm about it. Social: @CNFPod Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes and newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, March 04, 2022
Episode 305: Matt Bell
Matt Bell is the author of the craft book Refuse to be Done: How to Write and Rewrite a Novel in Three Drafts. It's published by Soho. Social: @CNFPod Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Mon, February 28, 2022
Episode 304: Bill Donahue
Bill Donahue is the writer behind "The Voyagers," a production of The Atavist Magazine. We also speak to lead editor Jonah Ogles about editing this piece and what makes for a great profile and getting a piece of writing to "that good place." Social: @CNFPod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, February 25, 2022
Episode 303: Damon Brown
Get the gig you want with the skills you've got, that's the subtitle of Damon Brown's new book, Career Remix. It's published by Sterling. Social: CNFPod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, February 18, 2022
Episode 302: Neda Toloui-Semnani
Neda Toloui-Semnani (@Neda_Semnani) is a journalist and author of They Said They Wanted Revolution: A Memoir of My Parents (Little a, 2022). Social: @CNFPod Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, February 11, 2022
Episode 301: Debbie Millman
Debbie Millman (@debbiemillman) is the host of the incredible Design Matters podcast and the author of Why Design Matters: Conversations with the World's Most Creative People (Porchlight Books, 2022). Social: @CNFPod Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Sponsor: West Virginia Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing Show notes/Newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, February 04, 2022
Episode 300: Gloria Liu
Come find the meaning of life with Gloria Liu (@thats_my_line) as we dig into her work for Outside Magazine about burnout, among other topics. Social: @CNFPod Sponsor: West Virg. Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Mon, January 31, 2022
Episode 299: Christine Grimaldi and "The Shadow and the Ghost"
Christine Grimaldi blends memoir and journalism in her piece for the February 2022 issue of The Atavist Magazine. Social: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Sponsor: West Virg. Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, January 28, 2022
Episode 298: Rachel Krantz is 'Open'
Rachel Krantz (@RachelKrantz) is the author of Open: An Uncensored Memoir of Love, Liberation, and Non-Monogamy (Harmony, 2022). Social: @CNFPod Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Sponsor: West Virg. Wesley College's MFA in Creative Writing Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, January 21, 2022
Episode 297: Sonia Weiser is Looking for a Hobby
Sonia Weiser (@weischoice) is a freelancer and the founder of the Opportunities of the Week newsletter. Sponsor: West Virginia Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing Social Media: @CNFPod Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, January 14, 2022
Episode 296: Bradford Pearson on Reporting, Ambition, and 'The Eagles of Heart Mountain'
Bradford Pearson (@bradfordpearson) is a journalist, editor, and author of The Eagles of Heart Mountain: A True Story Of Football, Incarceration, and Resistance in World War II America . Sponsor: West Virginia Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing Social Media @CNFPod Show notes and newsletter: brendanomeara.com Support?: patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, January 07, 2022
Episode 295: Wil Haygood Talks 'Colorization,' Black Films in a White World, and Meeting James Baldwin
Wil Haygood is the author of nine books. His latest is Colorization: 100 Years of Black Films in a White World (Knopf, 2021). This conversation was part of a live series for Goucher College's MFA in Creative Nonfiction. Sponsor: West Virginia Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing. Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Social Media: @CNFPod Show notes and newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, December 31, 2021
Episode 294: 'We Wish to be Able to Sing', Mike Damiano Talks About His Atavist Story
Mike Damiano stops by to close out 2021 to talk about his Atavist story " We Wish to be Able to Sing ." Social Media: @CNFPod Show notes and newsletter: brendanomeara.com Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Sponsor love: West Virg. Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing
Fri, December 24, 2021
Episode 293: The 'Supremely Tiny Acts' of Sonya Huber
Sonya Huber (@sonyahuber) is the author of the memoir Supremely Tiny Acts: A Memoir of a Day (Mad Creek Books). Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Social Media: @CNFPod Sponsor: West Virginia Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing
Fri, December 17, 2021
Episode 292: Chip Scanlan says, 'A Writer is Someone Who Writes. Period.'
Chip Scanlan ( @chipscanlan ) is the author of Writers on Writing . He's a teacher, writer, journalist, novelist, etc. A great dude, too. Patreon: patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod Newsletter: brendanomeara.com Sponsor: West Virg. Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing
Fri, December 10, 2021
Episode 291: 'Simple is the Way to Go' with Mirin Fader
Mirin Fader ( @mirinfader ) is a senior staff writer for The Ringer and the author of Giannis: The Improbable Rise of an MVP. She was twice featured as a notable selection in the Year's Best Sports Writing for her piece on Tyler Skaggs and Gigi Bryant. This episode is dedicated to Kim H. Cross. Sponsor: West Virginia Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing Support: Patreon.com/cnf Social Media: @CNFPod Show notes: brendanomeara.com
Fri, December 03, 2021
Episode 290: 'Only in Oregon': How Drawing Political Cartoons is All About the Writing with Jesse Springer
Jesse Springer (@springertoons) is a graphic designer and Oregon-based political cartoonist. His latest book, "Only in Oregon," is a greatest hits collection of his cartoons over the span of 26 years. You can buy the book at springerdesign.biz/books . Patreon: patreon.com/cnfpod Social Media: @CNFPod Show notes and newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Tue, November 30, 2021
Episode 289: The Atavist's 'Feast for Lost Souls' with Annelise Jolley and Zahara Gomez
For this month's Atavist bonus episode, I speak with Annelise Jolley and Zahara Gomez about their collaboration titled " A Feast for Lost Souls ." Show notes: brendanomeara.com Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Social media: @CNFPod
Fri, November 26, 2021
Summer
Issue 2 of the audio magazine "Summer" is now available on the public feed! Essays from Jake Gronsky, Matthew Denis, Carrie Hagen, and Krystina Wales, as well as three original poems by Jorah LaFleur.
Fri, November 19, 2021
Episode 288: And the Category Is ... Ricky Tucker
Ricky Tucker is a writer, teacher, and voguer. He's the author of And the Category Is ... New York's Vogue, House, and Ballroom Community (Beacon Press). Sponsor love: West Virginia Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing Social Media: @CNFPod Newsletter: brendanomeara.com Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, November 12, 2021
Episode 287: Boomerang with Achy Obejas
Achy Obejas is an author and poet whose latest collection is Boomerang/Bumeran, poems in English and Spanish that aim to be gender-free (tough in Spanish) while addressing immigration, displacment, love, and activism. Social media: @CNFPod , @creativenonfictionpodcast Up to 11 Newsletter: brendanomeara.com Patreon: patreon.com/cnfpod Sponsor love: West Virg. Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing
Fri, November 05, 2021
Episode 286: Jen Winston on Essay Collection as Memoir
Jen Winston is the author behind Greedy: Notes from a Bisexual Who Wants Too Much (Atria). She's @jenerous on the socials, and you can keep the conversation going @creativenonfictionpodcast on IG and @CNFPod on Twitter. Sponsor love: West Virg. Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing Patreon love: patreon.com/cnfpod Up-to-11 Newsletter and show notes: brendanomeara.com
Mon, November 01, 2021
Episode 285: Tony Perrottet and 'The Butcher of Havana'
Tony Perrottet is a journalist and historian whose latest piece is "The Butcher of Havana" for The Atavist Magazine. patreon.com/cnfpod @CNFPod Up to 11 Newsletter
Fri, October 29, 2021
Episode 284: Kim H. Cross on Scenes, Structure, and The Stahl House
Kim H. Cross (@kimhcross) is the author of The Stahl House: Case Study House #22: The Making of a Modernist Icon (Chronicle Chroma). She is a best selling author and her work has been featured in The Years' Best Sports Writing and Best American Sports Writing, among many other places. Sponsor: West Virginia Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing Patreon: patreon.com/cnfpod Social Media: @CNFPod (twitter) and @ creativenonfictionpodcast (IG) Up to 11 Newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, October 22, 2021
Episode 283: Freelancing, Abundant Mindsets, and Writing from a Place of Anger with Jen A. Miller
Jen A. Miller returns after a near-five-year absence from the show to talk about her new e-book about supercharging your freelance career. She's @byJenAMiller on Twitter. Sponsor love: West Virginia Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing and Casualty of Words , a writing podcast for people in a hurry. Social: @CNFPod Patreon: patreon.com/cnfpod Newsletter and show notes: brendanomeara.com
Fri, October 15, 2021
Episode 282: Jeannine Ouellette on Wanting to be Devastated, Self-Scrutiny, and Her Memoir 'The Part That Burns'
Jeannine Ouellette is the author of the memoir The Part That Burns (Split/Lip Press). She can be reached @msjeannineouellette on Instagram and @_elephantrock on Twitter. Show notes and the monthly newsletter are at brendanomeara.com. Social media: @CNFPod on Twitter, @creativenonfictionpodcast on IG Patreon: patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, October 08, 2021
Episode 281: Susan Orlean Tackles Ledes, Generating Story Ideas, and 'On Animals'
Susan Orlean is the best selling author of The Library Book, Rin Tin Tin, and The Orchid Thief. She's a staff writer for The New Yorker and her latest collection is On Animals. Show notes and newsletter at brendanomeara.com Social Media: @CNFPod on Twitter and @creativenonfictionpodcast on Instagram.
Fri, October 01, 2021
Episode 280: Laura Todd Carns and 'Searching for Mr. X,' an Atavist Original
Laura Todd Carns (@LauraToddCarns) comes by the show to talk about her Atavist feature "Searching for Mr. X." We also hear from the lead editor of the piece Seyward Darby. Visit magazine.atavist.com to read the piece and subscribe to The Atavist. Keep the conversation going @creativenonfictionpodcast on IG and @CNFPod on Twitter. Show notes and to sign up for the Up to 11 Newsletter, visit brendanomeara.com.
Fri, September 24, 2021
Episode 279: Athena Dixon on Opening Doors, Day Jobs, and the Personal Essay
Athena Dixon (@AthenaDDixon) is the author of the essay collection "The Incredible Shrinking Woman." We talk about day jobs, finding the time to write, and stringing together essays for a collection. Sponsors: West Virginia Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing and the Empathy Prize. Social Media: @creativenonfictionpodcast on IG and @CNFPod on Twitter. Patreon: patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, September 17, 2021
Episode 278: Having a 'Blast' with Volcanologist Jess Phoenix
Jess Phoenix (@JessPhoenix2018) is a volcanologist and the author of Ms. Adventure: My Wild Explorations in Science, Lava, and Life (Timber Press, 2021). Lots of great stuff here. Social Media: @creativenonfictionpodcast on IG and @CNFPod on Twitter. Patreon: patreon.com/cnfpod Sponsor help: mfa.wvwc.edu and thefacingprojectpress.submittable.com
Fri, September 10, 2021
Episode 277: Allison K. Williams Talks Planned Practice, Living a Writer's Life, and Her New Craft Book 'Seven Drafts'
Allison K. Williams returns to talk about her new book Seven Drafts: Self-Edit Like a Pro from Blank Page to Book (Woodhall Press, 2021). She's @GuerillaMemoir on social media. Thanks to West Virginia Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing for the support. Social Media: @CNFPod Patreon: patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, September 03, 2021
Episode 276: Earl Swift Takes Us to the Moon
Earl Swift, author of Across the Airless Wilds: The Lunar Rover and the Triumph of the Final Moon Landings, returns to talk about his latest book. Sponsor help: West Virginia Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing Membership: patreon.com/cnfpod Social Media: @CNFPod
Tue, August 31, 2021
Episode 275: Nile Cappello and Her Atavist Story 'The Girl in the Picture'
Nile Capello (@liketheriver) is the writer and reporter behind The Atavist Magazine story 'The Girl in the Picture.' We talk about true crime as self-preservation and how she vets out her stories. We also talk to editor-in-chief Seyward Darby. To read the piece, visit magazine.atavist.com.
Fri, August 27, 2021
Episode 274: Ruby McConnell on Stalling Out and Finding Hope Through Writing
Ruby McConnell is the author of Ground Truth: A Geological Survey of a Life and A Woman's Guide to the Wild. She is @rubygonewild on Twitter and Instagram. Show notes are at brendanomeara.com and you can support the show by heading to patreon.com/cnfpod. Thanks to West Virginia Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing for the support.
Fri, August 20, 2021
Episode 273: My #Hippocamp21 Talk — In Their Words: Lessons Learned from the Best of The Creative Nonfiction Podcast
Behold! My #Hippocamp21 talk: In Their Words — Lessons from the Best of the Creative Nonfiction Podcast. Sponsor: West Virginia Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Social: @CNFPod
Fri, August 13, 2021
Episode 272: The Arc of a Goal with Shanna B. Tiayon
Shanna B. Tiayon comes by to talk about her Pipe Wrench Magazine piece "If We Can Soar," as well as her work in Longreads, and is she training for a Half Ironman? You can her @shannbtiayon on Twitter and @black_suburban_homestead on Instagram. Support: West Virginia Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing and Hippocamp 2021. Show notes: brendanomeara.com Social: @CNFPod Be a member: patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, August 06, 2021
Episode 271: Brin-Jonathan Butler, 'The Passenger,' and 'Giving Up the Ghost'
Brin-Jonathan Butler's "Giving Up the Ghost" for Hazlitt is part memoir, part criticism, part mediation on suicide, part travelogue, but it's all Brin. An incredible piece of writing. Settle in, CNFers. @CNFPod patreon.com/cnfpod brendanomeara.com
Sat, July 31, 2021
Episode 270: How did Daniel Kolitz Pull Off His Atavist Story?
Daniel Kolitz is a freelance writer whose latest piece for The Atavist Magazine is about Enthusiastic Sobriety and its founder Bob Meehan.
Fri, July 30, 2021
Episode 269: The Visionary Life of Cecilia Brown, Making Pictures, and This American Life
Cecilia Brown (@cecilbrownn on IG) is a filmmaker based out of Portland, Oregon. She produced a beautiful piece for This American Life, so we talk about that and her life making pictures. Social media: @CNFPod Patreon: patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com
Fri, July 23, 2021
Episode 268: Overcoming Bad Viewing Hygiene with The Ringer's Alison Herman
Alison Herman ( @aherman2006 ) is a critic for The Ringer. Her piece on David Gelb, Jiro Dreams of Sushi, and the Chef's Table industrial complex prompted this great conversation. Social media: @CNFPod Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes/links: brendanomeara.com
Fri, July 16, 2021
Episode 267: Suzanne Roberts on Big Wins, Rejection Clubs, and 'Bad Tourist'
Suzanne Roberts (@suzanneroberts28) is the author of Bad Tourist: Misadventures in Love and Travel (University of Nebraska Press, 2020). Suzanne talks about: Big wins Writing in community The Wordy Girls Rejection clubs And how not to sound like a douchebag when talking about travel Support for the show: West Virginia Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing HippoCamp21 Patreon: patreon.com/cnfpod Social Media: @CNFPod Show notes: brendanomeara.com
Fri, July 09, 2021
Episode 266: The Expansive Nothing You Have to Fill with Kristen Radtke
Kristen Radtke (@kristenradtke on Twitter, @kristenradtke_ on IG) is the author of Seek You: A Journey Through American Loneliness . Social media: @CNFPod on Twitter. Support: Patreon.com/cnfpod Thanks to sponsors West Virginia Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing and HippoCamp 2021 . Show notes: brendanomeara.com
Fri, July 02, 2021
Episode 265: 'No Place Like Home' with Ariel Ramchandani and Seyward Darby
Ariel Ramchandani (@arielramch) and Seyward Darby (@seywarddarby) stop by the show to talk about "No Place Like Home," the podcast they're producing with The Atavist Magazine and Cadence 13. It tells the story of the stolen ruby slippers. Social Media:@CNFPod Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com
Fri, June 25, 2021
Episode 264: Rachel Monroe Talks About the Things Writers Don't Tweet About
Rachel Monroe (@rachmonroe) is a freelance journalist whose work appears in The New Yorker, The Atlantic, and The Oxford American. Keep the conversation going @CNFPod and consider supporting the show by visiting the Patreon page: patreon.com/cnfpod. Show notes at brendanomeara.com.
Fri, June 18, 2021
Episode 263: Michelle Weber and Catherine Cusick Break Out the Pipe Wrench
Michelle Weber (@michelleinchief) and Catherine Cusick (@cusickcatherine) come by to talk about their exciting venture Pipe Wrench Magazine. Social: @CNFPod Patreon: patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes: brendanomeara.com
Fri, June 11, 2021
Episode 262: Passion + Desperation = Bob Welch
"I. Will. Write. This. Book. There's no turning back," says Bob Welch, author of Saving My Enemy, and two dozen other books. We dig into the writing process and the passion and desperation that drives him. Support for The Creative Nonfiction Podcast is provided by: West Virginia Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing and HippoCamp21 (CNFPod21 to save $50!). Patreon.com/cnfpod Social media: @CNFPod Show notes: brendanomeara.com
Fri, June 04, 2021
Episode 261: Wudan Yan and Jenni Gritters Talk All Things Coaching, Freelancing, and Mindset Monsters
"Everything we do as freelance business owners is a leap of faith," says Wudan Yan (@wudanyan), co-host of The Writers' Co-op Podcast with Jenni Gritters (@jenni_gritters). They talk about: Business proposals The most common questions they get as coaches Jenni "leaving" journalism And so much more! Sponsors: West Virginia Wesleyan College's MFA in Creative Writing and HippoCamp 2021
Mon, May 31, 2021
Episode 260: Jordan Michael Smith Spins a True-Crime Yarn for The Atavist
Jordan Michael Smith (@WriterJMS) came by CNFPod HQ to talk about his piece for The Atavist Magazine, a true-crime zinger. We talk about: Structure and pacing Obsession and singular focus How he's a better reporter than a writer And depth of commitment Social media: @CNFPod Support the show: patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, May 28, 2021
Episode 259: Lilly Dancyger on Building Community and Finding Her Father in 'Negative Space'
Lilly Dancyger (@lillydancyger) came by CNF Pod HQ to talk all things memoir and her new book Negative Space. She talks about how: It took her 10 years to write it Sticking to her creative guns Community over networking And taking the slime off of branding Patreon: patreon.com/cnfpod Social media: @cnfpod and @BrendanOMeara
Fri, May 21, 2021
Episode 258: The Saturation of Not Doing It with Brian Broome
Brian Broome (@bbromb) is the author of the memoir Punch Me Up to the Gods (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt). In this episode we talk about: Shame Black masculinity Writing Memoir And Writing on the Bus Patreon: patreon.com/cnfpod Social Media: @CNFPod
Fri, May 14, 2021
Episode 257: From the Backside to the Vatican with Joe Drape
Joe Drape is a sports writer for The New York Times and the author of The Saint Makers, among other books. He's @joedrape on Twitter and you can keep the conversation going @CNFPod. Head over to patreon.com/cnfpod to support the show and get access to the audio magazine!
Fri, May 07, 2021
Episode 256: G'Ra Asim and His Mixtape to His Brother 'Boyz in the Void'
G'Ra Asim, author of Boyz in the Void: A Mixtape to My Brother (Beacon Press), stopped by CNF Pod HQ to talk about this incredible book, punk rock, and straight edge culture. Great talk. Social media: @notjadedpunk, @CNFPod Patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, April 30, 2021
Episode 255: Maddy Crowell and the 'Invisible Kid,' Plus The Atavist Gets a New Look
Maddy Crowell comes by the show to talk about "Invisible Kid," her piece for The Atavist Magazine. Lead editor Jonah Ogles teases the piece and Ed Johnson talks about the brand new design. Keep the conversation going @CNFPod and consider becoming a CNFin' member at patreon.com/cnfpod.
Fri, April 23, 2021
Episode 254: Elena Passarello on Weird Freelance Work, Podcasting, and Oatmeal Brain
Elena Passarello is the author of Animals Strike Curious Poses, Let Me Clear My Throat, and the co-host of I'll Find Myself When I'm Dead. Keep the conversation going on social media @CNFPod and consider being a member in the Patreon group, patreon.com/cnfpod. Stay cool, CNFers, stay cool forever!
Fri, April 16, 2021
Episode 253: Julie DiCaro Won't Be 'Sidelined'
Sports writer, podcast host, radio host, Julie DiCaro comes by to talk about her book Sidelined , a book about being a woman in America. Keep the conversation going on Twitter @CNFPod and find show notes to this and other episodes at brendanomeara.com. Check out patreon.com/cnfpod for ways to support the show and get some cool swag!
Fri, April 09, 2021
Episode 252: 60 Songs that Explain the 90s ... and The Ringer's Rob Harvilla
There's a stealth memoir quality to The Ringer's Rob Harvilla on his incredible podcast "60 Songs that Explain the 90s." Yes, they are songs that define the decade, but they are also songs that define him. Keep the conversation going on social media @CNFPod and subscribe wherever you podcast. Consider becoming a member at patreon.com/cnfpod to get exclusive access to the audio magazine and other goodies. Shop around!
Fri, April 02, 2021
Episode 251: Glenn Stout Brings to Life The Tiger Girl and the Candy Kid: America's First Gangster Couple
Glenn Stout returns to talk about his thrilling book The Tiger Girl and the Candy Kid: America's First Gangster Couple .
Wed, March 31, 2021
Episode 250: Lindsay Jones and Her Atavist Story 'The Lives of Others'
Canadian writer and journalist Lindsay Jones stops by HQ to talk about her Atavist story The Milk Box Babies about the cottage hospital industry of rural Canada and the secret that upended two families. I also speak with editor-in-chief Seyward Darby. Subscribe to The Atavist and the podcast. Keep the conversation going @CNFPod on Twitter and IG and consider supporting the show at patreon.com/cnfpod.
Fri, March 26, 2021
Episode 249: Ximena Vengoechea on Life Audits, Listener Drain, and Reclaiming the Lost Art of True Connection
Ximena Vengochea is the author of Listen Like You Mean It: Reclaiming the Lost Art of True Connection (Portfolio). We talk about: Life audits Listening (duh) Interviewing And listener drain Follow the show on social media @CNFPod and consider being a member at patreon.com/cnfpod.
Fri, March 19, 2021
Episode 248: Humble and Important Gifts with Bronwen Dickey
"My mind is a very bad neighborhood and I should not go there alone," says Bronwen Dickey. She is the author of Pit Bull: The Battle Over an American Icon, a Best American Sports Writing notable pick, and the journalist behind many pieces that have appeared in Esquire and Outside Magazine. She's my best friend and I'm so happy to have her back for her fourth trip to the podcast. In this episode we riff about: The arrow going out Humble and important gifts Journalism as an act of service Social media Index card systems If you dig the show, pass it around the circle. If you want to support the magazine, head over to patreon.com/cnfpod and if you want the best newsletter in the country as rated by me, head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and the monthly newsletter.
Fri, March 12, 2021
Episode 247: Jason Naylor, In Living Color
"How do you find your style? How do you find your voice? And the truth is, I think that you don't find it until you stop trying to find it, you just make work," says Jason Naylor, @jasonnaylor , author and illustrator of Live Life Colorfully: 99 Ideas to Add Joy, Positivity, and Creativity to Your Life. It is published by Chronicle Prism. Newsletter: brendanomeara.com Patreon for audio mag and other goodies: patreon.com/cnfpod
Fri, March 05, 2021
Episode 246: Jenni Gritters on the Freelance Life, Not Waiting for Perfect, and Sh*t Sandwiches
Jenni Gritters, @jenni_gritters, a freelance writer and co-host of The Writers' Co-op Podcast with her friend and colleague Wudan Yan, comes by CNF Pod HQ to talk about all things freelance writing. Support the show by becoming a member at patreon.com/cnfpod. Newsletter: brendanomeara.com Twitter and Instagram @CNFPod.
Mon, March 01, 2021
Episode 245: Phil Hoad and his Atavist Story 'Cat and Mouse'
The journalist Phil Hoad comes by to talk about this Atavist story "Cat and Mouse" about a rash of pet murders in London. We're also joined by lead editor Jonah Ogles, who unpacks Phil's pitch and what made the story irresistible. Keep the conversation going on social media @CNFPod and sign up for the monthly CNFin' newsletter at brendanomeara.com .
Fri, February 26, 2021
Episode 244: Jackie MacMullan on the Fear of Failure, Writing that Teaches You, and the Final Chapter of 'Best American Sports Writing'
Jackie MacMullan, columnist for ESPN and a long-time writer for The Boston Globe, stops by the show to talk about being the final guest editor for The Best American Sports Writing. Show notes are at brendanomeara.com . Care to support the show a little more? Become a member at patreon.com/cnfpod where you'll get exclusive access to the audio magazine, transcripts, and more!
Fri, February 19, 2021
Episode 243: Claire McNear of The Ringer Talks All Things Writing, Jeopardy!, and the Late Great Alex Trebek
Claire McNear is a staff writer for The Ringer and the author of Answers in the Form of Questions: A Definitive History and Insider's Guide to Jeopardy! (Twelve, 2020). We jam about her rise in longform journalism and how she came to write this great book. Social media: @CNFPod Patreon: patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes and newsletter: brendanomeara.com
Fri, February 12, 2021
Episode 242: 'How Are You Going to Change the World?' asks Damon Brown
Damon Brown ( @browndamon ) returns to talk about his new book Build From Now: Know Your Power, Know Your Abundance and Nourish the World. Social media: @CNFPod Patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes and newsletter at brendanomeara.com This show is brought to you by Vol. III of Casualty of Words , a writing podcast for people in a hurry.
Fri, February 05, 2021
Episode 241: Carolyn Holbrook and the Indispensable Nature of Writing and Teaching
Carolyn Holbrook is the author of T ell Me Your Names and I Will Testify: Essays (University of Minnesota Press). We talk about how teaching and writing keeps her sane, not giving a rip about winning awards (and winning one anyway!), and how she arrived at linked essays as a way to write what is, in effect, a memoir. Show notes are at brendanomeara.com and if you want to break out some cash, we've got some amazing goodies at patreon.com/cnfpod. Keep the conversation going on social media @CNFPod.
Sun, January 31, 2021
Episode 240: Scott Eden Pans for, Finds Gold in his Atavist Story 'The Gilded Age'
Investigative journalist Scott Eden returns to the podcast to talk about his Atavist story " The Gilded Age ." This is a new and exciting partnership with The Atavist Magazine where we at CNF Pod HQ will feature The Atavist's featured writer and featured story for that month. Check out this story and others at magazine.atavist.com and subscribe to read blockbuster journalism, beautifully told, beautifully designed. Follow @atavist , @CNFPod and @BrendanOMeara . Show notes are at brendanomeara.com . Patreon is here . Check it out!
Fri, January 29, 2021
Episode 239: Alexandra DiPalma Leads the Podcast Workshop
Alexandra DiPalma, the boss behind Domino Sound and the leader of the Podcast Workshop, is back to talk all things podcasting! Check out akimbo.com/thepodcastworkshop to learn more and if you use the link in the show notes at brendanomeara.com , you could take advantage of a killer discount on the seventh iteration of the workshop. We talk about her winning the golden ticket by working with Seth Godin, launching her own company, and much, much more. Keep the conversation going on social media @CNFPod and consider being a member at patreon.com/cnfpod.
Fri, January 22, 2021
Episode 238: Ashkan Soltani Stone and Natale Zappia Rock Out with 'Rez Metal'
Ashkan Soltani Stone and Natale Zappia co-write the book Rez Metal: Inside the Navajo Nation Heavy Metal Scene (University of Nebraska Press). They riff about getting out of the way of the story and the collaborative process. Show notes are at brendanomeara.com and consider becoming a CNFin' member over at Patreon, patreon.com/cnfpod . Keep the conversation going @ CNFPod and let us know what's on your mind.
Fri, January 15, 2021
Episode 237: A Fiction/Non/Fiction Festival with V.V. Ganeshananthan and Whitney Terrell
Podcasters and writers V.V. Ganeshananthan and Whitney Terrell come by CNF Pod HQ to talk about their writing nonfiction, writing novels, and producing their wonderful podcast Fiction/Non/Fiction. It is part of the Lithub Radio Network. Follow the show @CNFPod and if you dig this CNFin' enterprise, consider the killer options at Patreon page, patreon.com/cnfpod.
Fri, January 08, 2021
Episode 236: Michael Leviton on Quantity Over Quality, Play and His New Book 'To Be Honest'
"Writing a book could potentially be very tedious, but I'm writing to make myself laugh or cry. If I'm not crying or laughing, I'm like, so bored," says Michael Leviton (@michaelleviton). He's the author of the memoir To Be Honest. It is published by Abrams Press. Keep the conversation going on social media @CNFPod and consider being a member of the Patreon community, patreon.com/cnfpod .
Fri, January 01, 2021
Episode 235: Athletic Brewing's Mason Gravely says 'Make It Easy to Say Yes'
Athletic Brewing's Mason Gravely (@alive_adventures on IG) is here to talk about his experience on the Without Compromise podcast he produces for Athletic, as well as the Adventure Sports Podcast, biking across the country, nearly DYING, and lots more. Keep the conversation going on social media @CNFPod and consider joining our Patreon community to support the audio magazine and the continued production of this here show. Patreon.com/cnfpod.
Fri, December 25, 2020
Episode 234: Lamorna Ash Goes Out to Sea in 'Dark, Salt, Clear'
Lamorna Ash (@LamornaAsh) is the author of Dark, Salt, Clear: The Life of a Fishing Town (Bloombury). Her background in anthropology served her well as she immersed herself in the fishing town of Newlyn. Keep the conversation going on social media @CNFPod and consider being a CNFin' member on patreon.com/cnfpod . Support for this show goes to Wudan Yan and Jenni Gritters of The Writers' Co-op Podcast . Show notes can be found at brendanomeara.com .
Fri, December 18, 2020
Episode 233: Lee Gutkind on Magical Moments, the Rope Test, and 'My Last Eight Thousand Days'
Lee Gutkind, author of several books and, most recently, the memoir My Last Eight Thousand Days: An American Male in His Seventies (University of Georgia Press), returns to the show to talk about voice, starting his day, the eternal "rope test," magical moments, and the optimistic days ahead. Promotional support is provided by The Writers' Co-op Podcast . Consider becoming a member over at patreon.com/cnfpod for exclusive access to the magazine, transcripts, and much, much more. Show notes to this and other shows at brendanomeara.com .
Fri, December 11, 2020
Episode 232: Change is the Only Constant with Glenn Stout
Glenn Stout returns to the podcast to talk about the 30th and final edition of Best American Sports writing. His new book, Tiger Girl and the Candy Kid, is available for pre-order. Promotional support for the podcast is shared with The Writers' Co-op , a business podcast for writers. It is hosted by Wudan Yan and Jenni Gritters. Consider supporting the podcast by becoming a member at patreon.com/cnfpod .
Fri, December 04, 2020
Episode 231: Pete Croatto on Listening, Showing His Work, 'From Hang Time to Prime Time,' and Adding that Ding
So thrilled to have Pete Croatto (@petecroatto) back on the podcast after a 202-episode drought. His new book, From Hang Time to Prime Time (Atria Books), is out now. In more than 300 interviews, Pete tells the story of how NBA became the behemoth it is today. But it all started in the late 1970s to the late 1980s. You can now become a CNFin' Member by hitting up patreon.com/cnfpod and keep the conversation going on social media, @CNFPod . Show notes, get your show notes! at brendanomeara.com. Promotional support for this episode is brought to you by The Writers' Co-op Podcast .
Tue, December 01, 2020
Isolation
The first Creative Nonfiction Podcast Audio Magazine is on the theme of ISOLATION: Essays about feeling alone . We bring you essays from Damon Brown, Magin LaSov Gregg, Gina Cardarelli, Kristina Gaddy, and April Nance. You'll want to share this with your fellow CNFers because we're going to want to showcase the beautiful work done by these five authors, and we want to open up the possibilities to others. This issue will be free and available for all time on the CNF Pod feed, but in order to access subsequent issues, you'll have to be a member at Patreon.com/CNFPod . The introductory tier, and all the other ones, will give you access to the magazine (among other things). You'll want to follow the show @CNFPod on social media and plug into what these courageous writers are doing as well. I hope you enjoy this very first audio magazine and I hope you'll consider submitting your work to the next one (HINT: the new theme and submission guidelines are at the end of this episode!). From all of us here at CNF Pod HQ: Riff!
Fri, November 27, 2020
Episode 230: Meichi Ng, the Barely Functional Adult behind 'Barely Functional Adult'
Meichi Ng (@barelyfunctionaladult) came by the show to talk about her incredible illustrated memoir Barely Functional Adult: It'll All Make Sense Eventually (Harper Perennial). To support the show, you can now become a member at patreon.com/cnfpod . Keep the conversation going on social media @CNFPod and check out the show notes at brendanomeara.com . In this episode, we talk about the scary nature of publishing, how she developed her character for the comic, quitting, and holding onto positive messages in a negative world.
Fri, November 20, 2020
Episode 229: A License to be Curious with 'Fossil Men' author Kermit Pattison
Being a journalist gave Kermit Pattison the license to be curious. He is the author of Fossil Men: The Quest for the Oldest Skeleton and the Origins of Humankind. It is published by William Morrow. Keep the conversation going on social media @CNFPod and be sure to head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and to sign up for the monthly newsletter.
Fri, November 13, 2020
Episode 228: Annie Duke Tells You How to Decide
Annie Duke is the author of How to Decide: Simple Tools for Making Better Choices. You can follow her @annieduke on Twitter and visit her website annieduke.com. Keep the conversation going by linking up to @CNFPod on social media and sign up for the monthly newsletters at brendanomeara.com. Reading recommendations, podcast news, and a CNFin' Happy Hour for subscribers only!
Fri, November 06, 2020
Episode 227: The Futility of Reassurance and Being on the Hook with Seth Godin
"That's what the practice is. It's for people who have read enough blog posts or books to know the method, but for whatever reason look straight at the method and blink," says Seth Godin. His 20th book is The Practice: Shipping Creative Work and it's a book for our troubled times. Keep the conversation going on social media @CNFPod and head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and to sign up for my monthly newsletter.
Fri, October 30, 2020
Episode 226: Edward Parnell's In Search of a Haunted Country in 'Ghostland'
Edward Parnell (@edward_parnell) comes by the show to talk Kurt Vonnegut, birds, grief, and his book "Ghostland: In Search of a Haunted Country." It is published by William Collins. Keep the conversation going on social media @CNFPod across the Big 3. Be sure you head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and to sign up for my monthly newsletter. First of the month. No spam. Can't beat it.
Fri, October 23, 2020
Episode 225: Amalia Andrade Dances with Her Fears
"When you are being controlled by a fear, then you are not being yourself," says Amalia Andrade, @amaliaandrade_ on Twitter. Amalia is the author and illustrator behind What You Think About When You Bite Your Nails: A Fear and Anxiety Workbook (Penguin Life, 2020). Subscribe to the podcast wherever you download them and keep the conversation going on social media @CNFPod. Consider leaving a kind review on Apple Podcasts and if you do, I'll read it on the air!
Fri, October 16, 2020
Episode 224: Patrick Radden Keefe's Atypical Path to Narrative Journalism, Writing Books and Making 'Wind of Change'
"What can I leave out? And that point where I can start leaving things out becomes very liberating because then, in a way, the reporting continues, but it's narrowing," says Patrick Radden Keefe, a staff writer at The New Yorker, best selling author of Say Nothing, and host of Wind of Change. Follow him @praddenkeefe and follow the podcast @CNFPod.
Fri, October 09, 2020
Episode 223: 'Why Are You Making it, and Who is it for?' with Kristen Meinzer
"I spend a lot of time thinking about promotion," says Kristen Meinzer, author of So You Want to Start a Podcast and How to be Fine , "because this is not Field of Dreams ." Follow Kristen on Twitter @kristenmeinzer and while you're at it, follow the show @CNFPod. In this episode we talk about the nuts and bolts of why you should make a podcast and who should you make it for, structure, pet peeves, and the rigor of promoting your show. Stay tuned to the end for my parting shot and Kristen's Bookshelf for the Apocalypse!
Fri, October 02, 2020
Episode 222: Catherine Grace Katz on One-Word Distillations, the Thrill of Research and 'The Daughters of Yalta'
"It's when you get stuck and you start to realize something's not right. It's usually because you're wrong," says Catherine Grace Katz, @Catherine_Katz on Twitter. She is the author The Daughters of Yalta: The Churchills, Roosevelts, and Harrimans: A Story of Love and War. It's published by Houghton, Mifflin, Harcourt. Follow the show @CNFPod. This show is sponsored by my editing services! Head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and to email me to start a dialogue.
Fri, September 25, 2020
Episode 221: Power Couple Ashley Molesso and Chess Needham Bring You 'The Gay Agenda'
Ashley Molesso and Chess Needham ( @ashandchess ) are here to talk about their incredible and beautiful book The Gay Agenda: A Modern Queer History and Handbook (Morrow Gift, 2020) as well their stationery business that pushes art into the political realm. This show is sponsored by Scrivener, creative by writers for writers. Use the coupon code NONFICTION at checkout to receive 20% off your purchase of Scrivener. Keep the conversation going on social media @CNFPod and @BrendanOMeara across the big three. And if you're feeling kind share this with a friend and considering leaving a nice review on Apple Podcasts. Oh, yeah, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!
Fri, September 18, 2020
Episode 220: The Unreality of Elisa Gabbert
Elisa Gabbert (@egabbert) returns to talk about her new book The Unreality of Memory (FSG, 2020), as well has her poetry and how it ties into her prose. You'll also hear the five books for her Bookshelf for the Apocalypse and much, much more. This episode is supported by Scrivener, made by writers, for writers. Enter the promo code NONFICTION at checkout to receive 20% off your purchase. Keep the conversation going on social media @CNFPod across the big three. Consider rating the show. I just might read it on air!
Fri, September 11, 2020
Episode 219: Matt Hongoltz-Hetling — $30 Stories, Brute-Force Freelancing (And Some Bears)
Matt Hongoltz-Hetling is a freelance writer and author of A Libertarian Walks into a Bear: The Utopian Plot to Liberate an American Town (And Some Bears) . It is published by Public Affairs. Support the show by supporting our flagship sponsor! Scrivener was made by writers for writers. Enter NONFICTION at checkout to receive a 20% discount. Follow the show on social media @CNFPod in the right places. And be sure to subscribe to my monthly newsletter by heading over to brendanomeara.com .
Fri, September 04, 2020
Episode 218: Mary Pilon, Louisa Thomas, Seasoned Losers
Mary Pilon (@marypilon) and Louisa Thomas (@louisathomas) are here to talk about the book they edited together called Losers: Dispatches from the Other Side of the Scoreboard (Penguin). This show was possible by Scrivener. Enter the code NONFICTION at checkout to receive 20% off.
Fri, August 28, 2020
Episode 217: Lidia Yuknavitch on Usefulness, Riding the Wave, and Being a Word Creature
Lidia Yuknavitch is the author of the Scribd original "Letter to My Rage," as well as the memoir The Chronology of Water, the novels The Book of Joan and The Small Backs of Children, and the collection Verge. This episode was made possible by Scrivener . Enter the coupon code NONFICTION at checkout for 20% of the regular package for macOS and Windows. Keep the conversation going on Twitter, IG, and Facebook @CNFPod. Head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and to sign up for the monthly newsletter.
Fri, August 21, 2020
Episode 216: All-Star Break and a Work-in-Progress
In this all-star break edition, the top ten downloaded interviews of the year and I read from a work-in-progress titled "Raph, the Space Cadet." This episode was made possible by Scrivener , by writers, for writers. And if you enter the coupon code NONFICTION at checkout, you'll get 20% the regular versions of Scrivener for macOS and Windows.
Fri, August 14, 2020
Episode 215: Jean Guerrero on Community, Journalism in the Age of Trump, and Her Stephen Miller Biography 'Hatemonger'
"It's a whole new world. I remember I was reporting for the Stephen Miller book, I went to Trump's first reelection rally in Orlando. And it was the first time that I had ever been in a place where I felt reluctant and kind of scared to tell people that I was a journalist. I wasn't there undercover. I was there to interview people. It made me nervous to be walking around with my notebook out because there were so many chants against journalists," says Jean Guerrero, author of Hatemonger: Stephen Miller, Donald Trump, and the White Nationalist Agenda . This podcast is sponsored by my editing and coaching. Email Brendan O'Meara for details! Keep the conversation going on social media @CNFPod.
Fri, August 07, 2020
Episode 214: Seyward Darby's Deep Dive into the 'Sisters of Hate'
Seyward Darby is the editor in chief of The Atavist Magazine and the author of Sisters in Hate: American Women on the Front Lines of White Nationalism.
Fri, July 31, 2020
Episode 213: Tornados, BDSM Potlucks? Welcome to Tomboyland with Melissa Faliveno
Melissa Faliveno, author of Tomboyland: Essays (Topple Books, 2020) joins me on the show to talk about softball, vegetarianism, tornados, and why she wrote essays instead of a memoir. Keep the conversation going on social media @CNFPod.
Fri, July 24, 2020
Episode 212: Kevin Guilfoile on Uncovering the Chaos and 'A Drive into the Gap'
Kevin Guilfoile is the author of the memoir A Drive into the Gap. It is published by Field Notes. This podcast is sponsored by my writing coaching services as well as Casualty of Words, a writing podcast for people in a hurry .
Fri, July 17, 2020
Episode 211: What to Do When You Hate the Work with Rose Andersen
"Great, so you're at the point in the writing process where you hate all your work. We all do that," says Rose Andersen, @roseandersen. This episode is sponsored by Scrivener, by writers for writers and Casualty of Words , a writing podcast for people in a hurry. Keep the conversation going on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, @CNFPod. See you there for office hours!
Fri, July 10, 2020
Episode 210: Stephanie Gorton Looks to the Past with 'Citizen Reporters'
Stephanie Gorton, author of Citizen Reporters: S.S. McClure, Ida Tarbell, and the Magazine that Rewrote America, talks about the sacrifice of writing a book, reading fiction and nonfiction, and what it was like midwifing other people's books into the world before writing her own. This episode is sponsored by Scrivener, made by writers for writers , and Casualty of Words, a near-daily writing podcast for people in a hurry. Be sure to follow the show on social media @CNFPod.
Fri, July 03, 2020
Episode 209: The Evolution of Beth Roars
Beth Roars is a vocal coach, performer, podcaster, and YouTube superstar and it's her take on creativity and evolution that inspired this conversation. Keep the conversation going on social media @CNFPod across them all.
Fri, June 26, 2020
Episode 208: From Floundering to Freelance Superstar with Wudan Yan
"That was always my understanding that if you want to be a freelance journalist, you're probably going to have to do a lot of things that you don't want to do. So it creates time space, resources for you to dig into the things that you want to do," says Wudan Yan, @wudanyan on Twitter. This episode is sponsored by Scrivener , created by writers, for writers. Be sure you're subscribed wherever you get your podcasts and keep the conversation going on social media @CNFPod.
Fri, June 19, 2020
Episode 207: Every Story is a Workshop with Roy Peter Clark
"I wrote a column on my 30th birthday saying things I'd like ,by the time I was 40, was write one good book," says Roy Peter Clark. I'd say he did. Try about a dozen with Writing Tools and Murder Your Darlings being two that you know and love. He's @roypeterclark on Twitter. Follow the show @CNFPod. Let's give a big CNFin' welcome to Scrivener for sponsoring this episode of the podcast. Be sure to check them out to level up your writing game.
Fri, June 12, 2020
Episode 206: Neal Bascomb on Deep Research, Failed Novels, and Locking into Nonfiction
Neal Bascomb, the best-selling author, joins us to talk about Faster: How a Jewish Driver, an American Heiress, and a Legendary Car Beat Hitler's Best (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2020), joins us to talk about the book, the essay he wrote as a kid that sent him on this path, and the myriad failed novels that put him on the nonfiction track. Keep the conversation going on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, @CNPod . I'd love to hear from you.
Fri, June 05, 2020
Episode 205: The Art of Biography with Larry Tye
Larry Tye is here to talk about his new book Demagogue: The Life and Long Shadow of Senator Joe McCarthy (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt). Keep the conversation going on social media @CNFPod. And if you dig the show, consider sharing it and posting an honest review on Apple Podcasts.
Fri, May 29, 2020
Episode 204: Peter Brown Hoffmeister on Self-Control, Internal Drive and Regret in Memoir
Peter Brown Hoffmeister makes his return to the podcast. He talks about role models, internal drive, self-control, regret in memoir, and he even reads a poem at the end. Keep the conversation going on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, all @CNFPod.
Fri, May 22, 2020
Episode 203: Emma Copley Eisenberg — A Window into Journalism World
"I tried to write fiction and other things and it just kept being there and wanting to be written about," says Emma Copley Eisenberg about her nonfiction book, The Third Rainbow Girl. In this show we talk about her soiree into journalism world, the many false starts her book took, and pushing the boundaries in creative nonfiction. Follow her on Twitter @frumpenberg . Follow the show @CNFPod on IG, Twitter, and FB. Keep the conversation going, man.
Fri, May 15, 2020
Episode 202: Ruby McConnell — ... And Nothing but The 'Ground Truth'
Ruby McConnell (@rubygonewild) is the author of Ground Truth: A Geological Survey of a Life (Overcup Press). We talk about the rigor and discipline of dance and how that prepared her for writing, why geology is a great "writer's science," and so much more. Follow the show @CNFPod across all the socials and head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and to subscribe to the monthly newsletter.
Fri, May 08, 2020
Episode 201: Walter Thompson-Hernandez on Journalism as Ethnography in 'The Compton Cowboys'
"I think I can do both: I'm a participant and an observer," says Walter Thompson-Hernandez. Follow him @mychivas on Instagram. Keep the conversation going on Twitter , Instagram and Facebook @CNFPod.
Fri, May 01, 2020
Episode 200: Nick Flynn as Bewilderment
Nick Flynn is the author of Another Bullshit Night in Suck City, The Ticking is the Bomb, The Reenactments , and, most recently, Stay: Threads, Conversations, and Collaborations (Ze Books, 2020). Follow the show on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @CNFPod.
Fri, April 24, 2020
Episode 199: Keith Law's 'Inside Game'
Keith Law (@keithlaw) is a writer for The Athletic and the author of Inside Game (William Morrow). Be sure to follow the show @CNFPod on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and to sign up for the monthly newsletter. Once a month. No spam. Can't beat it.
Fri, April 17, 2020
Episode 198: Rani Shah — Blue High Heels, Dude Hats, and Wisdom from a Humble Jellyfish
Rani Shah is the author of Wisdom from a Humble Jellyfish: And Other Self-Care Rituals from Nature (Dey St.) In this episode we dig into the sacrifices you need to create, balancing day jobs and art, imposter syndrome, growth mindsets, blue high heels, and dude hats. Be sure you're subscribed wherever you get your podcast. Get show notes and the monthly newsletter at brendanomeara.com . Follow the show on social media @CNFPod on Twitter , Instagram , and Facebook.
Fri, April 10, 2020
Episode 197: Eva Holland — Coping by Going into Reporter Mode
"I knew right away I would be writing about my mom's death. I knew that immediately," says Eva Holland, author of Nerve: Adventures in the Science of Fear (The Experiment, 2020). Eva Holland is a freelancer features writer whose work has appeared Outside , Wired and Best American Science and Nature Writing , to name a few. You can follow her @evaholland on Twitter. In this episode we talk about: Next-level freelance advice Dealing with imposter syndrome Blending memoir and reportage And much more Follow the show @CNFPod on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and to subscribe to my monthly newsletter. Email the show creativenonfictionpodcast@gmail.com with questions. And, if you're feeling kind, consider leaving a kind review on Apple Podcasts.
Fri, April 03, 2020
Episode 196: How to Be Fine with Jolenta Greenberg and Kristen Meinzer
Jolenta Greenberg and Kristen Meinzer are the people behind the By the Book podcast and the authors of How to Be Fine: What We Learned from Living By the Rules of 50 Self-Help Books (Willam Morrow).
Fri, March 27, 2020
Episode 195: Ben Cohen and 'The Hot Hand'
Ben Cohen, the NBA writer for The Wall Street Journal, stopped by the show to talk about The Hot Hand: The Mystery and Science of Streaks (Custom House, 2020).
Fri, March 20, 2020
Episode 194: Michael Schulman — Driven by Joy, New Yorker Profiles, and the 'Secret Word'
"Selection is as creative as generation," says Michael Schulman, a staff writer for The New Yorker. CNF Pod is brought to you by Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing and my monthly newsletter!
Fri, March 13, 2020
Episode 193: Allison Fallon — Find Your Voice
Allison Fallon (@missallyfallon) is the author of twelve books. Her most recent is Indestructible. Support for this show comes from Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing , HippoCamp 2020, and my monthly newsletter .
Fri, March 06, 2020
Episode 192: Paul Lisicky — The Book Teaches You What It Wants to Be
Paul Lisicky, author of Later: My Life at the Edge of the World (Graywolf Press, 2020), talks about his latest book. Big thanks to Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing and to HippoCamp 2020 for the support. Head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and to sign up for the monthly newsletter.
Fri, February 28, 2020
Episode 191: Alexander Norman on the Journey of Finding Voice, Ghostwriting, and the Dalai Lama
Alexander Norman, author of The Dalai Lama: An Extraordinary Life (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2020), joins me to talk about his new book and how he has struggled to find his voice as a writer. Thanks to Bay Path University, HippoCamp2020, and my monthly newsletter for the support.
Fri, February 21, 2020
Episode 190: Adrienne Brodeur on Taking Your Story Head On, Loosening the Grip on Your Narrative, and Her Memoir 'Wild Game'
The author Adrienne Brodeur is here to talk about her memoir Wild Game: My Mother, Her Lover, and Me (HMH, 2019) Thanks to our sponsors in Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing . Thanks also to HippoCamp 2020. Use the promo code CNFPOD2020 to receive $40 off your registration! And, of course, my monthly newsletter .
Fri, February 14, 2020
Episode 189: Damon Brown on 'Bring Your Worth' and the Secret Power of Cocktail Napkins
Damon Brown is the author of Bring Your Worth and he joins me to talk about that, creativity, and a whole lot more. Thanks to Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing for the support. Be sure to sign up for the my monthly newsletter .
Fri, February 07, 2020
Episode 188: Katherine Keith — Say Yes to Life
Katherine Keith, author of Epic Solitude, talks about resilience in the face of unspeakable tragedy. Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing made this show possible. As did my monthly newsletter .
Fri, January 31, 2020
Episode 187: Ander Monson — It's Electric
The writer Ander Monson, whose True Story essay "My Monument" came out in December, is here to talk about the essay and his approach to writing essays. Podcast made possible by Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing.
Fri, January 24, 2020
Episode 186: Brin-Jonathan Butler — Misfits, Status, and 'Tourist Information'
Brin-Jonathan Butler has a new podcast called Tourist Information. Thanks to Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing for the support.
Fri, January 17, 2020
Episode 185: Tim O'Brien on Memory, Failure and his 'Maybe Book'
Tim O'Brien, author of Dad's Maybe Book , talks all things writing, reading and turning a maybe something into an actual something. Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing made this show possible. As did my monthly newsletter. Go get it.
Fri, January 10, 2020
Episode 184: Kristina Gaddy — 'Flowers in the Gutter' and the Loving What's Underneath It All
Hey, CNFers! It's Kristina Gaddy, author of Flowers in the Gutter. This episode is sponsored by Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing . It's also sponsored by my monthly newsletters . Reading recommendations, riffs, and what you might have missed from the world of the podcast. First of the month. No spam. Can't beat it.
Fri, January 03, 2020
Happy 2020, CNFers
Um, what? No interview this week?
Fri, December 27, 2019
Episode 183: Sonia Hamer — Crock-Pot Prose
Sonia Hamer talks about her story Pig: An Essay. This show is sponsored by Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction. It's also sponsored by my monthly newsletter. O nce a month. No spam. Can't beat it.
Fri, December 20, 2019
Episode 182: Jake Gronsky — Discipline, Sticking Up for Your Work, and Always Having an Apprentice Mindset
Jake Gronsky, author of A Short Season and a Best American Sports Writing 2019 Notable Selection joins me to talk about writing and always having that apprentice mindset. This episode is sponsored by Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing . It's also sponsored by my monthly newsletter. Sign up at brendanomeara.com.
Fri, December 13, 2019
Episode 181: Amy Fish — Starting Late, Dealing with Rejections, and How to Get Someone to Clean Up After Their Dog
Amy Fish, author of I Wanted Fries With That, joins me to talk about her writing and coming to the genre later in life. Thanks to Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing for the support. This podcast is also brought to you by my monthly newsletter. Head to brendanomeara.com to sign up. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, man.
Fri, December 06, 2019
Episode 180: Lindsay McCrae — A Year Among Penguins
Lindsay McCrae jumps on the podcast to talk about his book My Penguin Year: Life Among the Emperors. Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing helped make this show possible.
Fri, November 29, 2019
Episode 179: John O'Connor — Finding Your Donkey
John O'Connor talks about his "True Story" piece "Everything Gets Worse" and how every story needs a donkey. Thanks to Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing for the support. Keep the conversation going on Twitter and Instagram @CNFPod and find show notes at brendanomeara.com
Fri, November 22, 2019
Episode 178: Elisa Gabbert — Tweet-Size Ideas and Letting Time Do the Work
"Time is doing so much work," says Elisa Gabbert, the essayist and poet. This episode's patron is Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction writing . Follow the show on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook @CNFPod.
Fri, November 15, 2019
Episode 177: Steven Moore — Essays About to Break, Keeping Track of the Positive, and 'The Longer We Were There'
Steven Moore is here to talk about his memoir The Longer We Were There: A Memoir of a Part-Time Soldier (University of George Press, 2019). Thanks to Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction for the support. Link up to the show on Twitter and Instagram @cnfpod.
Fri, November 08, 2019
Episode 176: Kevin Robbins — Limitations vs. Ambitions, Chasing the Greats, and 'The Last Stand of Payne Stewart'
"I'm still trying to figure out why the greats are great," says Kevin Robbins, @kdrobbins on Twitter. Kevin Robbins returns to the show to talk about The Last Stand of Payne Stewart. Thanks to Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction for the support.
Mon, November 04, 2019
In Order to Keep Going, You Must Start
Thanks to Austin Kleon sharing a Stephen Harrigan quote to inspire this pod.
Fri, November 01, 2019
Episode 175: Cassandra King Conroy — Mid-life Resurgence and Her Time with Pat Conroy in 'Tell Me a Story'
"Writing is not a competitive sport," says Cassandra King Conroy, author of Tell Me a Story, her memoir of her time with Pat Conroy. This show is made possible by Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing . Follow the show on Twitter @CNFPod. I hope you dig it. Party on, CNFers!
Mon, October 28, 2019
My Favorite Book on Writing
My favorite book on writing might be a bit unexpected and certainly not 100% in the genre of nonfiction.
Fri, October 25, 2019
Episode 174: Bob Batchelor — Humble Beginnings, Breaking Free from Google, and 'The Bourbon King'
"I worked to write this as the longest screenplay possible," says Bob Batchelor, author of The Bourbon King. Thanks to Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction and to Riverteeth for the support. Follow the show at @CNFPod .
Mon, October 21, 2019
A Riff on Success featuring AC Shilton
A riff on success with the freelance writing AC Shilton.
Fri, October 18, 2019
Episode 173: Sonja Livingston — Expeditions in Devotion, Trust, and The Virgin of Prince Street
Sonja Livingston returns to talk about The Virgin of Prince Street: Expeditions into Devotion (University of Nebraska Press, 2019). Thanks to Bay Path's MFA in Creative Nonfiction for the support and to Riverteeth for the promotional support. Keep the conversation going on Twitter and Instagram @cnfpod.
Mon, October 14, 2019
What's the Thing That Makes It Fun?
A CNF Snack (tapas?) on the nature of fun featuring Christopher McDougall.
Fri, October 11, 2019
Episode 172: Christopher McDougall — 'Running with Sherman,' 'Born to Run,' and Finding Your Stride
"All writing is re-writing, all reporting is re-reporting," says Christopher McDougall, author of Born to Run, Natural Born Heroes, and Running with Sherman. Thanks to Bay Path University and Riverteeth for the support. Keep the conversation going on Twitter @CNFPod !
Mon, October 07, 2019
Be a Fan First
Some wisdom from Henry Rollins.
Fri, October 04, 2019
Episode 171: AC Shilton — Arrival Fallacy, 'The Innocent Man,' and Chickens
"Somebody else's success doesn't limit your own," says AC Shilton, a freelance journalist and farmer. Thanks to Bay Path University for the support and Riverteeth for the promotional support. Keep the conversation going on Twitter @CNFPod .
Mon, September 30, 2019
Creating without Judgement with Chase Jarvis
A CNFin' snack. Creating without Judgement with Chase Jarvis, author of Creative Calling.
Fri, September 27, 2019
Episode 170: Leslie Jamison — Make It Scream, Make It Burn, and the Bounded Infinity of Nonfiction
"Essays took on this energy for me in part because they're unofficial and in part because they brought me in contact with the world that felt really generative," says Leslie Jamison. Make It Scream, Make It Burn by Leslie Jamison is the occasion. It is published by Little, Brown. Leslie is the bestselling author of The Empathy Exams and The Recovering. We dig into a lot of great stuff about her process and how she came to nonfiction from a background in fiction. Keep the conversation going on Twitter @CNFPod and Instagram @cnfpod and Facebook @cnfpodcast. Thanks to Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction , Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction and River Teeth for the support. I hope you enjoy what we made for you.
Fri, September 20, 2019
Episode 169: Chase Jarvis — Discover Your Creative Calling
Chase Jarvis is here to talk about his incredible book Creative Calling. Chase is a world-class photographer, CEO and founder of Creative Live, and a riser of tides. I hope you enjoy this conversation. Keep the conversation going on Twitter @CNFPod and Instagram @cnfpod . If you dig the show, share it with a friend. Thanks to our sponsors in Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction and Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction . Also a shoutout to River Teeth.
Fri, September 13, 2019
Episode 168: Rachel Dougherty — Nonfiction for Kids, Day Jobs, and Finding Confidence
"My writing life is being surrounded by 15 half-empty coffee cups which I keep dipping my paint brush into accidentally," says Rachel Dougherty. Rachel Dougherty is a Philadelphia-based illustrator, children's author, and lifelong knowledge-hunter. She works in acrylic paint, ink, and pencil smudges, using humor and color to inspire curious young minds. Rachel is passionate about US history, scruffy little dogs, and board games. This episode is brought to you by Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction , Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction , River Teeth and my kick-ass editing services . Keep the conversation going on Twitter @CNFPod and Instagram @cnfpod . Also Facebook .
Fri, September 06, 2019
Episode 167: Steven Hyden—Woodstock '99, 'Break Stuff,' and Books as Roadtrips
"You tend to agree more with the people who don't like what you do more than the people who do like what you do," says Steven Hyden, rock critic for Uproxx and the host and producer of Break Stuff. We talk about him always wanting to be a rock critic, how he still has passion for music, and his incredible podcast on Woodstock '99 titled Break Stuff. Support for this podcast comes from Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction , Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction and River Teeth, a journal of nonfiction. Keep the conversation going on Twitter @CNFPod , Instagram @cnfpod , and Facebook @CNFPodcast . There's a sandbox for everybody!
Fri, August 30, 2019
Episode 166: Kate Hopper—Slap the Bass
Kate Hopper, author of the essay "Stumbling into Joy," stopped by the show to talk about this essay and how she approaches the work. Keep the conversation going on Twitter @CNFPod and Instagram @cnfpod. I hope you find what I made for you is worth sharing. Thanks to Goucher's MFA in Nonfiction , Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction , and River Teeth for the support. Head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and to sign up for the newsletter!
Fri, August 23, 2019
Episode 165: Steven Kurutz—The Power of the Library, Getting to New York, and 'Fruitland'
Steven Kurutz, features writer for The New York Times and author of Like a Rolling Stone , stopped by CNFPod HQ to talk about libraries, getting to New York, and his incredible True Story essay "Fruitland." Subscribe to the show wherever you listen to you podcasts and keep the conversation going on Twitter @CNFPod and on Instagram @cnfpod. Thanks to Goucher's MFA in Nonfiction , Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction and River Teeth for the support.
Fri, August 16, 2019
Episode 164: Donna Talarico—Literary Citizenship and Hippocamp 2019
"I like to joke that this is my investment in literary citizenship," says Donna Talarico ( @donnatalarico ). Hey, CNFers, Donna Talarico makes her return to the show after two years to promote this year's Hippocamp, a creative nonfiction conference. This is a shorter-than-normal interview, but it's got the goods nevertheless. Subscribe to the show if you haven't already and consider leaving a kind review on Apple Podcasts. Share with a friend. That's how this spreads. Keep the conversation going on Twitter @CNFPod and Instagram @cnfpod . Thanks also to Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction , Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction , and Riverteeth for supporting this show.
Fri, August 02, 2019
Episode 163: Fred Waitzkin — How Writing a Book is Like a Love Affair
"A great story for me is one that engages me emotionally. It's like a love affair," says Fred Waitzkin, author of several books, including his latest Deep Water Blues. Fred Waitzkin comes by the show to talk about his love of writing, how he developed his knack for story, how his parents influenced him, and how breaking into other disciplines cracked the code of his latest book. Support for this episode comes from Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction and Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction . Keep the conversation going on Twitter by tagging the show @CNFPod , on Instagram @cnfpod and Facebook. Party on, CNFers!
Fri, July 26, 2019
Episode 162: Seyward Darby—Editing as Collaboration at The Atavist
"Let me be your sounding board for how the piece should come together," says Seyward Darby. Seyward Darby is the executive editor of The Atavist Magazine. She's also a writer and a brilliant mind. Thanks to Goucher College's MFA in Nonficiton and Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction for supporting the show. Twitter: @CNFPod. Instagram: @cnfpod Subscribe and share widely, CNFers!
Fri, July 19, 2019
Episode 161: Mark Kram Jr.—Letting the Dust Clear, Being a Late Bloomer, and Smokin' Joe
"This is not something that comes over night. It's a long, arduous road," says Mark Kram Jr. Mark Kram Jr. is on the show to talk about his incredible career and his latest book Smokin' Joe. We talk about how he was a late bloomer and through hard work, long work, he grew into his own skin as a writer. This show is brought to you by Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction and Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction . Keep the CNFin' conversation going on Twitter @CNFPod.
Fri, July 12, 2019
Episode 160: Chuck Klosterman—'Raised in Captivity,' Being Straightforward, and How Nonfiction is Closer to Bowling
"I spend the most time on making my writing more clear and straightforward," says Chuck Klosterman (@CKlosterman). Hey, CNFers, Chuck Klosterman, author of eleven books, including his latest Raised in Captivity: Fictional Nonfiction , joined me for a nice conversation about how books can be anything you want them to be and how he structures his day so he can get the work done. Keep the conversation going on Twitter by pinging the show @CNFPod and @BrendanOMeara . Thanks to Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction and B ay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction for the support.
Fri, July 05, 2019
Episode 159: Allie Rowbottom—The Page as Safe Place
"Talent is not enough. You have to have luck. You have to have drive," says Allie Rowbottom ( @allierowbottom ) Allie Rowbottom, author of Jell-O Girls: A Family History is on the show to talk shop. She grew with an artist mother who empowered her to pursue her own art. Keep the conversation alive on Twitter @CNFPod or Instagram @cnfpod . Subscribe to the show and consider leaving a kind review on Apple Podcasts. Thanks to Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction and Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction for the support.
Fri, June 28, 2019
Episode 158: Naomi Gordon-Loebl—F*ck-Yeah! Essays
"There's always gonna be people who are better than you and there's also people who're gonna be worse than you. That really can't be the reason you write or don't write," says Naomi Gordon-Loebl. Naomi Gordon-Loebl, a journalist and essayist comes on the show to talk about her work. Find her on Twitter @naomigordonloebl and visit her website at naomigordonloebl.com . Keep the conversation going on Twitter by tagging the show @CNFPod and on Instagram @cnfpod. Thanks to our sponsors Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction and Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction .
Fri, June 21, 2019
Episode 157: Eric Ducker—'I Want This Weirder'
"I want to hear more of you in this. I want this weirder. Let loose," says Eric Ducker ( @ericducker ). Eric Ducker, freelance writer for The Ringer, among others, came on the show to talk about music, his time at Fader, and his Ringer piece on Jenny Odell (check out Ep. 151 for her). Thanks to Goucher's MFA in Nonfiction and Bay Path's MFA in Creative Nonfiction for the support. Keep the conversation going on Twitter @CNFPod and on Instagram @cnfpod .
Fri, June 14, 2019
Episode 156: Sonya Huber—Creative Infidelities
"I think that's why people stop writing. It's the not knowing what you're doing that feels so terrible." —Sonya Huber (@ sonyahuber ). Sonya Huber, author of five books and countless essays, joins me on the pod. Shoutout to our patrons in Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction and Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction . Keep the conversation going on Twitter @ CNFPod or on Instagram @ cnfpod .
Fri, June 07, 2019
Episode 155: T.D. Thornton—Horses, Cons, Boxers, Oh, My!
"You can persevere and you can grind, but you have to get lucky at times," says T.D. Thornton, @thorntontd. T.D. Thornton, author of Not By a Long Shot and My Adventures with Your Money came by the show. Thanks to Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction and Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction for sponsoring the show. Twitter: @CNFPod. Instagram: @cnfpod Subscribe where you get your pods!
Fri, May 31, 2019
Episode 154: Julian Smith—Pitch Clubs, Falling in Love with the Work, and Aloha Rodeo
"You gotta fall in love with your subject, and sometimes people have to pull you out," says Julian Smith (@juliansmith on Twitter). Julian is the co-author of Aloha Rodeo: Three Hawaiian Cowboys, the World's Greatest Rodeo, and a Hidden History of the American West. It is published by William Morrow. Thanks to Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction and Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction for the support. Keep the conversation going on Twitter @CNFPod .
Fri, May 24, 2019
Episode 153: Amanda Petrusich—Clinging to Tiny Victories, Letting the Process Sustain You, and Wet Jeans
"It's like wet jeans, that's the feeling of generating a bunch of crappy writing," says Amanda Petrusich, a staff writer for The New Yorker. Amanda can be found @amandapetrusich on Twitter. She's the author of Don't Sell at Any Price and she came by the show to talk about her career and early struggles. Thanks to Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction and Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction for the support. You can join me on Twitter @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod . Instagram is @cnfpod . Subscribe to the show and share with your fellow CNFers!
Fri, May 17, 2019
Episode 152: Philip Gerard—Fiction, Nonfiction, and the Writer's Magical Combination
"For a writer, ignorance and curiosity are a magical combination," says Philip Gerard. Philp Gerard, author of The Last Battleground: The Civil War Comes to North Carolina and the novel Cape Fear Rising , returns to CNF to talk about his latest book. Philip is a professor at the University of North Carolina Wilmington and has written several books. Visit philipgerard.com for more information. Keep the conversation going on Twitter @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod , and Instagram @cnfpod . Facebook @CNFPodcast . Thanks to Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction and Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction for the support. Be sure to subscribe to the show wherever you get your pods!
Fri, May 10, 2019
Episode 151: Jenny Odell—How to Do Nothing
"Find something else that is so absorbing to you. That is a place you can go to get away from [social media]," says Jenny Odell. Jenny Odell , author of How to Do Nothing , came by the show. Thanks to Goucher's MFA in Nonfiction and Bay Path's MFA in Creative Nonfiction for the support. Be sure keep the conversation going on Twitter @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod . Head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and to sign up for the newsletter.
Fri, May 03, 2019
Episode 150: Ian Frisch—Good Ideas Know No Age
"A good idea knows no experience level or age," says Ian Frisch, @IanFrisch on Twitter . Ian Frisch, author of Magic is Dead: My Journey into the World's Most Secretive Society of Magicians. We dig deep into the book, as well his approach to freelancing. Thanks to our show's patrons in Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction and Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction .
Fri, April 26, 2019
Episode 149: Anika Fajardo—Writing is About Communicating
"Part of me thinks nobody should write a memoir," says Anika Fajardo, @anikawrites . Anika Fajardo, author of Magical Realism for Nonbelievers , joined me for a nice conversation about her late-blooming journey through writing. She thinks writing is about community and connection and writers need to be submitting work. Be sure to keep the conversation going on Twitter @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod . Thanks to Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction and Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction .
Fri, April 19, 2019
Episode 148—Jericho Brown on Discipline, Burpees, and How Poets Are a Special Kind of Nerd
"I don't have destinations in mind. I always have experiences in mind," says the poet Jericho Brown. ( @jerichobrown ) Today I welcome the award-winning poet Jericho Brown to the show, whose latest collection of poems The Tradition just released. It is published by Copper Canyon Press. We talk about his committment to phsyical fitness, experiences over destinations, his new collection of poems, that time he almost died of the flu, and how he invented the poetic structure known as the duplex. Support for this show comes from Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction and Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction .
Fri, April 12, 2019
Episode 147—Meredith May on What Cracked Open Her Memoir, Nature as Parent, and Bees, Lots of Bees
"The pleasure of reading a book is that it's reciprocal," says Meredith May ( @meredithmaysf) . Meredith May, author of The Honey Bus: A Memoir of Loss, Courage, and a Girl Saved by Bees, stopped by the show. The show is made possible by Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction , Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction and my monthly newsletter ! Keep the conversation going on Twitter @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod . Instagram is @cnfpod . Subscribe to the show and thanks for listening!
Fri, April 05, 2019
Episode 146—Austin Kleon: Steal, Show, and Keep Going!
"Maybe the world will aways be crazy, and creative work will always be hard. Then the question becomes: How do you keep going?" says Austin Kleon. This is The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to badass writers, filmmakers, producers, and podcasters about the art and craft of telling true stories. Austin Kleon is the author of Newspaper Blackout, Steal Like an Artist, Show Your Work, The Steal Like an Artist Journal, and his latest book is Keep Going: 10 Ways to Stay Creative in Good Times and Bad. Keep the conversation going on Twitter @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod . Thanks to our sponsors in Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction and Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction for helping make today's show possible.
Fri, March 29, 2019
Episode 145—Investigative Reporter Scott Eden Talks Structure, Sprawl, and Picking Up the Phone
"At what point are you taxing the reader?" asks Scott Eden, "knowing when the reader has had enough." That’s Scott Eden , investigative reporter for ESPN the Magazine and THIS is The Creative Nonfiction Podcast. Subscribe at iTunes, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Stitcher to get this delivered to your feed on every Friday. Follow me on Twitter @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod and follow the show on Instagram @cnfpod . So Scott Eden is here. He’s an intrepid reporter and we got to dig deep into his process and deconstructed how he wrote his piece on the former NBA referee Tim Donaghy, who gambled on the games he reffed and essentially fixed games. Thanks to Goucher College’s MFA in Nonfiction and Bay Path Unviersity’s MFA in Creative Nonfiction for making this show possible. Be sure to head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and to subscribe to my monthly newsletter. Sign up and get the next one on the first of the month. Once a month. No spam. Can’t beat it.
Fri, March 22, 2019
Episode 144—Vlad Yudin and the Independent Mindset
"If I fail, I want to fail because of me. If we succeed, I want to succeed because of us," says Vlad Yudin. Vlad Yudin, director and filmmaker, stopped by the show to talk about his bodybuilding documentaries and why he left Russia to come to the United States. This episode is brought to you by Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction , Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction , and my monthly newsletter. Keep the conversation going on Twitter @CNFPod and @BrendanOMeara .
Fri, March 15, 2019
Episode 143—Blake J. Harris Talks Virtual Reality, Facebook, and His Unlikely Path to Nonfiction Writing
"I want to do right by these people. I want to tell a story that honors the stuff they did," says Blake J. Harris. Blake J. Harris, author of The History of the Future and Console Wars came by the show to talk about his latest book on virtual reality, Oculus, and Facebook. Thanks to Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction and Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction for sponsoring today's show. Keep the conversation going by joining me @BrendanOMeara and the show @CNFPod on Twitter. Visit brendanomeara.com for show notes to this and many, many more shows!
Fri, March 08, 2019
Episode 142—Jeff Goins on Amateurism, Clarity, and the Myth of the Starving Artist
"You've gotta find new ways to have fun in old things," says Jeff Goins. It’s The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I talk to badass writers, producers, and filmmakers about the art and craft of telling true stories, how they got to where they are, how the cope with crippling self-doubt, and the routines they enlist to get the work done. I’m your host Brendan O’Meara and today’s episode is a tight 30, man. When you get somebody like Jeff Goins (@JeffGoins) on the show, author of a quintillion blog posts and several books, including Real Artists Don’t Starve, you adhere to the time allotment. So this was a tight window, but I think it’s packed with great stuff. Amazing what you can get done in a tight window if you focus and don’t dither. This episode was made possible by Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction and Bay Path University's MFA in Creative Nonfiction.
Fri, March 01, 2019
Episode 141—Evan Ratliff on Garbage-ing, Legwork in Pitching, and 'The Mastermind'
"My system is, it's okay not to have a system," says Evan Ratliff, @ev_rat on Twitter. This week I spoke to Evan Ratliff, who puts the bad in badass. Yes, that means I put the ass in badass. Neither here nor there. Evan came on the show to talk about his career as a freelance journalist and, most recently, his epic new book titled The Mastermind: Drugs. Empire. Murder. Betrayal. It’s a book that combines all the tools of the trade a master reporter needs to tell the globetrotting story That’s right, this is The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show were I talk to badass writers, filmmakers, and producers about the art and craft of telling true stories. I try and unpack their origins and how they go about the work so you can apply those tools of mastery to your own work. I’m your host, Brendan O’Meara. So before we get to Evan, you’ll want to find a way to subscribe to this show. I make it easy, man. Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. I think that’s enough. If you find the show entertaining or informative, share it across your platform with your pals. You are the social network. Rage against the algorithm, rrrrage. If you’re feeling generous of course you can leave a review on iTunes, but I’m jsut as happy with you sharing it or even emailing the show creative nonfiction podcast at gmail dot com. Head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and to sign up for my monthly newsletter. The latest one went out today. You’ll find book recommendations and maybe a link to a story written about me in the Register-Guard here in Eugene, OR. I always wanted to be a writer worth writing about. But I guess, for the time, I’m a podcaster worth writing about. It’s pretty cool. Check it out. Newsletter, once a month. No spam. Can’t beat it. Okay, so Evan Ratliff, @ev_rat on Twitter, came by the show. His latest book The Mastermind is a masterpiece of true crime writing. Evan is also the founder of The Atavist Magazine, a co-host of the Longform Podcast, and a long-time freelance writer. This was fun. He came to play ball, which not every guest does so I’m thrilled that he took the time to jam with me. Here’s my conversation with Evan Ratliff. Let’s kick it! What else? Oh, yes, keep the conversation going on Twitter by pinging me @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod . Wanna barf? The show has an Instagram page now: @cnfpod. And, as always, you can like the show on Facebook. You have no excuse for not seeing the show out there in the world. Thanks to Goucher College's Masters in Nonfiction for sponsoring the show !
Fri, February 22, 2019
Episode 140—James Carl Nelson on What It Takes to be a Writer, Jumping into the Action, and 'The Polar Bear Expedition'
“If you’re gonna be a writer, you gotta sweat,” says James Carl Nelson. James Carl Nelson, author of The Polar Bear Expedition: The Heroes of America’s Forgotten Invasion of Russia, 1918-1919, came by the show. The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I talk to badass writers, filmmakers, and producers about the art and craft of telling true stories. It’s here we learn how they became the artists they are, the struggles they deal with, and the routines that allow them to get the work done, so you can apply those tools of mastery to your own work. Let’s keep the conversation going on Twitter. Tag me and the show @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod to let me know what you liked. And head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes to this show and the previous 139 shows and to subscribe to my monthly newsletter. I share my book recommendations and what you might have missed from the world of the podcast. You don’t want to miss out. Once a month. No spam. Can’t beat it.
Fri, February 15, 2019
Episode 139—Dane Huckelbridge and the Deadliest Tiger the World Has Ever Known
"The freak-of-nature-tiger was actually a man-made disaster," says Dane Huckelbridge, @huckelbridge. You’re here because you love listening to badass writers, filmmakers, and producers talk about the art and craft of true stories. I try and unpack their journey and how they go about the work, so you can apply those tools of mastery to your own work. Be sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and hand this episode over to a friend you think would benefit from it. If you want to leave a written review please do. Feel free to email me with kind words or questions. I might just read them on the air. And keep the conversation going on Twitter @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod. You are the social network. Subvert the algorithm, man. Rage against the algorithm (great podcast name by the way). If you need any more evidence of Dane’s cool, check out his Twitter handle is simply @huckelbridge. Dane has written for the Wall Street Journal, the Daily Beast, Tin House, The New Republic, and New Delta Review. He is the author of Bourbon: A History of the American Spirit; The United States of Beer: The True Tale of How Beer Conquered America, From B.C. to Budweiser and Beyond; and a novel, Castle of Water, which has been optioned for a film. He grew up in Cleveland. Went to Princeton. And he lives in Paris with his French wife. Happy Valentine’s Day, holy shit. Dane’s book was originally going to be a chapter in a book of man-eating animals, but this story got bigger and bigger and bigger. It’s a brilliant exploration of the tiger as well as British colonialism and how the this tiger was a man-made disaster. Let’s get it on, here’s @huckelbridge, the coolest dude living in Europe.
Fri, February 08, 2019
Episode 138—Connor Ratliff on Falling Backward into Show Biz and How Improv Made Him a Better Listener
"You build good habits but the terrain going forward should be unknown to you," says Connor Ratliff. Hey, What’s up there CNFers, today’s guest is none other than Connor Ratliff, actor, comedian, writer, and performer for the Upright Citizen’s Brigade: Hey, it’s The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to badass writers, filmmakers, and producers about the art and craft of telling true stories. I trace their origin stories and get to the heart about how they go about the work. Go on and subscribe to the show wherever you get your podcasts and head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes to this show and every other episode. There you can also subscribe to my CNFin’ monthly reading list newsletter. Book recommendations and what you might have missed from the world of the podcast. Once a month. No spam. Can’t beat it. Like I said, Connor Ratliff is on the show and you might wonder why the hell I invited an improv performer who works with the likes of Chris Gethard, Amy Poehler, Jason Mantzoukas, Zach Woods, and countless others. Thanks also to our sponsor in Goucher College’s MFA in nonfiction and thanks to you, kind listener.
Fri, February 01, 2019
Episode 137—Bozos on the Same Bus with Bronwen and Brendan
"Clarity is a goal I want to be working toward. The more clear a piece of writing is, the more honest it feels," says three-time guest Bronwen Dickey (@BronwenDickey). Bronwen is the author of "Pit Bull: The Battle Over an American Icon" and a kick-ass journalist, writer, and teacher. Little change of pace with this episode as it is just us talking shop for an hour. Keep the conversation going on Twitter @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod. Head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and to subscribe to my monthly newsletter. Once a month. No spam. Can't beat it! Thanks to Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction for the support!
Fri, January 25, 2019
Episode 136—J. Hope Stein on Being a Not-So-Secret Secret Poet, the Sheer Love of Writing, and 'Little Astronaut'
J. Hope Stein, author of the book of poems "Little Astronaut", stopped by the show to talk about her wonderful writing and how she draws power from the sheer act of doing. Follow her on Twitter @poetrycrush and follow me and the show @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod!
Fri, January 18, 2019
Episode 135—Leanna James Blackwell Talks About Fallow Periods, Running with Ideas, and 90s Grunge
"Don't worry if you go through a fallow period. It doesn't mean there's something wrong with you," says Leanna James Blackwell. Leanna James Blackwell (@baypathmfaCNF) stopped by the show to talk about her True Story essay "Lethe," as well grabbing hold of ideas, dealing with fallow times, and finding community. This episode is brought to you by Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction. Join me on Twitter @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod to keep the conversation going! Subscribe to the show and consider leaving a review on iTunes/Apple Podcasts.
Fri, January 11, 2019
Episode 134—Harrison Scott Key on Finding the Nature of His Talent, Humor, and the Pull to Create
"I always felt this indescribable pull to create something I'm proud of. 'Look. I made this,'" says Harrison Scott Key. Harrison Scott Key came back to the show to talk about his amazing work. Since that day way back in 2013, Harrison has published his first memoir The World’s Largest Man about his father, which also won the Thurber Prize for the funniest book in the country. And his latest book, Congratulations, Who Are You Again? Was my single favorite book from 2018. Do you subscribe this here podcast? You can find it just about anywhere and if you dig this show and others, link up to it on your social media platforms. You are the social network, CNFers. Rage Against the Algorithm. And if you have a minute or two, please give the show a rating over on Apple Podcasts. Follow the show @CNFPod on Twitter and @BrendanOMeara on Twitter. It also has a Facebook page. This is where we continue the conversation and I’d love to hear from you.
Fri, January 04, 2019
Episode 133—Vanya Erickson Speaks Fluent 'Boot Language'
"We all need little successes," says today's guest Vanya Erickson. Vanya Erickson, author of the memoir Boot Language. You can find her at vanyaerickson.com, that’s Erickson with a CK, and follow her on Facebook @vanyaerickson.author. In this episode we talk a lot about how she survived her often brutal upbringing. It was one of emotional and physical abuse from two parents who couldn’t be more different. Subscribe to the show wherever you get your podcasts. Follow the show on Twitter @CNFPod and me @BrendanOMeara. It has a Facebook page too. Go check it out. I’ve curtailed my social media use by a LOT. I check Twitter only on my computer and only once a day to connect with you. If you’ve taken the time to say something nice or engage, I’ll do my best to reply or retweet or otherwise give you a high five. And if you dig the show, share it with your circle. That’s how this thing grows. Trust and passing it hand to hand. I’ll play the long game. Like it or not, I’m not going anywhere. Sucka. Thanks to Goucher College's MFA in nonfiction and the noun despair for their support.
Fri, December 28, 2018
Episode 132—Laura Hillenbrand on Research Workarounds, Reading Aloud, and Campfire Storytelling
"When I experience something interesting that happens I need to compose it in words," says Laura Hillenbrand. In many ways this is the logical conclusion of The Creative Nonfiction Podcast. This is the Tony Soprano cut-to-black moment, Walter White dying beside his precious meth lab, or Gollum plummeting into the fires of Mt. Doom with the Ring of Power clutched in his hand. This interview with the one and only Laura Hillenbrand was about two years in the making and through unshakable endurance on both sides we were able to get this done and I don’t think you’ll be disappointed by this in the least. For those who don’t know, Laura is the best-selling author of Seabiscuit: An American Legend and Unbroken: A WWII Story of Survival, Resilience, and Rddemption. I think best-selling is an understatement. Unbroken spent a staggering 42 weeks at No. 1 on the New York Times Best seller list. Both books were made into Oscar-nominated movies with Gary Ross directing Seabiscuit and Angelina Jolie directing Unbroken. Laura won the National Magazine Award in 2004 for her New Yorker article “A Sudden Illness,” which describes the acute onset of chronic fatigue syndrome, or CFS, that has been with her since the 1980s. If you haven’t subscribed to the show, be sure to do that wherever you get your podcasts. If you dig the show, please consider leaving an honest review over on iTunes. You can follow me and the show on Twitter @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod. Like the Facebook page, it’s just The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, and feel free to follow me on Instagram where I post cool audiograms of the shows as well as stupid drawings I do when I need to decompress. Always compressin’ over here. Head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and to subscribe to my monthly newsletters where I share my reading recommendations for the month, articles, and what you might have missed from the world of the podcast. It’s a little bite of goodness to start your month. Once a month. No spam. Can’t beat it. Thanks again to our sponsors in Goucher College’s MFA in Nonfiction and Creative Nonfiction Magazine. And, hey, happy New Year, friend. And thanks for being on this CNFin’ journey with me. Here’s to 2019.
Fri, December 21, 2018
Episode 131—Debbie Millman on Illustrated Essays, the Poem That Defines Her Life, and her Podcast 'Design Matters'
Welcome my CNFin’ buddy, how are YOU, doing? I’m @BrendanOMeara, Brendan O’Meara in real life and this is @CNFPod, or The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to badass writers, filmmakers, and producers about the art and craft of telling true stories. If you want to get better at the form, you’ve come to the right place. This is our little corner of the Internet. If you’re here for the first time, welcome, welcome, crack open a notebook, pour yourself a cup of coffee and settle in, CNFers. Where to start, where to start? My guest is Debbie Millman. Yes, you heard that correctly. Your ears did not deceive you. I didn’t bother digging too deep into Debbie’s origin story because there are several podcasts where she dives into that and I wanted to spare her from repeating herself. Maybe I was too timid in that regard, but I figured I’d steer the ship toward other things. At this point in the introduction is usually where I riff …. on what’s going on, maybe offer some insights into how you can improve your work by sharing something I find helpful. But...sometimes the most helpful thing is getting the cuss out of the way. In 17 words Debbie Millman is a writer, designer, educator, artist, brand consultant, and host of the podcast Design Matters. But in a single word? Debbie is an inspiration. She made a name for herself as a graphic designer and branding guru after years and years of rejections, failures, and false starts. She’s persistent sometimes, she admits, to a fault. Her writing is tight and playful. It’s deep, meaningful, resonant, and beautiful to look at as most of her essays are illustrated in her whimsical way of inking and penciling. As for her career in branding, If you’ve seen the Burger King logo, various Pepsi products, Tropicana, Haagen Daas, and Twizzlers (totally twisted) then you’ve seen her work. If it makes the supermarket look prettier, odds are Debbie had a hand in that. She was the president of Sterling Brands for 20 years, and under her stewardship grew the company from 15 employees to 150. But after a decade of being a titan in her field, from 1995 to 2005, often at the expense of her own creative projects, her writing, her drawing, her painting, she was granted the opportunity to host an internet radio program that, I must add, she had to pay to produce, called Design Matters. This was in 2005. 14 years later and she’s still doing it and for my money she, along with Joe Donahue of WAMC Northeast Public Radio, are the best interviews around. I have a reason for this and I talk about this with Debbie. She has interviewed Milton Glaser, Malcolm Gladwell, Anne Lamott, Seth Godin, Shepard Fairey, and hundreds more. Design Matters is a testament to her endurance and generosity. It wasn’t until she had done the show for several years that it really began to gain traction, win awards, and become the behemoth that it is today. I could go on and on and I must apologize for my titanic nerves in this episode. I mean I
Fri, December 14, 2018
Episode 130—Alexandra DiPalma and the Podcasting Revolution
Today's guest is Alexandra DiPalma, freelance podcast producer to the max! Man, you're gonna love hearing all about her. @LSDiPalma on Twitter. Be sure to subscribe on iTunes and wherever you get your podcasts. Visit brendanomeara.com to subscribe to my monthly newsletter. Once a month. No spam. Can’t beat that. So… I’ve done 130 of these podcasts starting incredibly raw with the most primitive ways of recording till now where I even have a boom arm to hold up the microphone. Yet, yet...I ponied up some $200 to buy a podcasting class package from Creative Live (no affiliation) and in that bundle was a class by Alexandra DiPalma, the brilliant freelance audio producer whose list of credits includes Food For Thot and Seth Godin’s Akimbo. She also is the foreman of Seth Godin’s Podcasting Fellowship so you could say Alexandra knows her shit. Be sure to follow her and her shows on Twitter. Hit her up on the internets and hit up the show @CNFPod and @BrendanOMeara. Facebooky is The Creative Nonfiction Podcast. Give us a follow, like the page, join our little community of badass true story tellers. Rising tides float all boats. Thanks, moon. Thanks to our sponsors in Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction and Creative Nonfiction Magazine.
Fri, December 07, 2018
Episode 129—Lisa D'Apolito Talks 'Love, Gilda', Her Connection to Gilda Radner, and Documentary Film as Discovery
"You're whole life adds up to who you are," says filmmaker Lisa D'Apolito. This is of course The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I talk to bad-ass writers, filmmakers, and producers about the art and craft of telling true stories whereby I unpack their artist journey and tap into their routines and habits about doing the work. This week for Ep. 129 is Lisa D’Apolito, the mastermind behind the brilliant documentary Love, Gilda about the legendary comedian and comedic actor Gilda Radner. We talk about her early life growing in Greenwich Village, her transition from acting to filmmaking, and what really drew her to Gilda Radner. Thanks to Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction and Creative Nonfiction Magazine for making this show possible. Of course you can follow the show in myriad places. It’s on Twitter @CNFPod and @BrendanOMeara. If you have any questions or things you’re struggling with in your work, shoot me a note. Be sure to share the show across your platforms to help grow our little community and go subscribe to my newsletter at brendanomeara.com.
Fri, November 30, 2018
Episode 128—David Lee Morgan on Positivity, Trust, and Telling the Story Straight
If you’re anything like me, and one assumes you are because you find some value in this humble little podcast, you need constant prodding in a sense. That can either be to get your work done or to get your brain in check. I’m one of those dudes who gets pretty down pretty easily, so it helps to have guests on who inspire me. Enter David Lee Morgan, @davidleemorgan on Twitter. David was a long time sports writer for the Akron Beacon Journal and most recently he turned his attention to teaching high school English, a move he doesn’t regret in the slightest. For the people who say “If you can’t do teach,” one of the more insulting things you can say to any artist who teaches or teachers who don’t, I give you David, who not only is a brilliant writer, but by the very nature of his attitude and approach, makes him that rare teacher that inspires with every lesson. To be frank, I haven’t been in David’s classroom, but if my 90 minutes with him is any indication of what it’s like to sit at a desk in his class, well, sign me up. Oh, hey, this is The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to the best writers, filmmakers, podcasters, and producers about the art and craft of telling true stories. Here I try and unpack their personal history and also drill down on their routines and habits around getting the work done so you can apply those tools of mastery to your own work. If you haven’t subscribed, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts, Google Play Music, Spotify, or Stitcher and hit that button. Share this episode with just one friend, or across your social platforms, and if you’ve got the time, please leave an honest review over on Apple Podcasts. Okay, so David is the author of six books, including LeBron James: The Rise of a Star, which was the book on LeBron before he became King James. We talk about garnering trust among sources, being positive, and using slights as fuel. I think you’re going to love this episode, now, it’s time for the main event. Thanks to our sponsors in Goucher College’s MFA in NOnfiction as well as Creative Nonfiction Magazine. What else? Oh, yes, be sure to subscribe to the show and be sure to head over to brendanomeara.com to sign up for my monthly newsletter. New one goes on the first of the month. It’s an inventory of great reading material as well as what you might have missed from the world of the podcast. I hope it gives you as much value as it gives me by putting it together. I’m @BrendanOMeara on Twitter and IG. The podcast is @CNFPodHost on Facebook, so connect with me or the show wherever you like. The show is in service of you, so if you have questions of me or my guests, please don’t be shy to email or ping me on social.
Fri, November 23, 2018
Episode 127—Sam Chiarelli 'Digs' Deep with Dino Memoir
Did you know it’s Di-November. Not die as in death, but dino as in dinosaurs, which is how and why today’s guest is Sam Chiarelli (@DinophileSam on Twitter), author of the memoir Dig: A Personal Prehistoric Journey, published by Hippocampus Books. What is up? It’s the Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to bad-ass writers, filmmakers, producers, and podcasters about the art and craft of telling true stories. I try and unpack their artist journey as well as habits and routines so you can apply those tools of mastery to your own work. I’m @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod on Twitter. I’m Brendan O’Meara in real life. Sam’s book is about chasing your curiosity and following your deepest passions, or re-finding them again as if they got lost in the rock years and years ago. Maybe consider excavating what excited you as a child, that time when you did what you wanted for no other reason than you thought it was fun and cool. Oh, by the way, Happy Thanksgiving. Thank you for coming along this CNFin’ journey. I’d be deeply grateful to you if you shared the podcast with your immediate circle and, if you’re feeling extra generous and maybe a bit doped up on food, writing a review over on iTunes. Thanks to our sponsors in Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction as well as Creative Nonfiction Magazine.
Fri, November 16, 2018
Episode 126—Glenn Stout on Shotgunning Ledes, Creative Chain Smoking, and 'The Pats'
"I never try to write a valentine. I always try to tell the story straight," says Glenn Stout, who makes his third visit to the podcast. Buckle up, CNFers, I’m Brendan O’Meara and this is my podcast, the show where I speak to the best writers and filmmakers, producers and podcasters about the art and craft of telling true stories. I try and extract habits and routines around the work so you can apply those tools of mastery to your own work. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, steam on Spotify, find the show and do it up. If you dig the show, if there’s a tasty nugget you know will help a fellow CNFer, pass it along to one person. Share it with you dozen Twitter followers, or your 300 Twitter followers and if you have a moment, consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts. Head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and to sign up for my monthly newsletter where I give out reading recommendations, writing tips, and what you might have missed from the world of the podcast. Once a month. No spam. Can’t beat it. So it’s Glenn Stout this week author, at last count, of 3,000 books, go look it up. His latests is the most comprehensive history of the New England Patriots to date titled The Pats: An Illustrated History of the New England Patriots. He put this book together with his long time collaborator Richard Johnson, who handled much of the curating of the art you’ll find in this gorgeous book. So Glenn came back for his third trip to the show. We talk about shotgunning ledes, chain smoking book projects, rationing out energy and, of course the Patriots, my home team, being a New England boy. Thanks to out sponsors in Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction and Creative Nonfiction Magazine. Glenn is @glennstout on Twitter. Go buy the book for the Pats fan in your life. I’m @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod on Twitter. You can follow along on Facebook @CNFPodHost/The Creative Nonfiction Podcast. I’m also @brendanomeara on Instagram if you like rando pics, drawings, and audiograms. Is that it? I think that’s it. Happy Thanksgiving, gobble gobble mofos. And remember, if you can’t do, interview, see ya!
Fri, November 09, 2018
Episode 125—Episode 125—Brin-Jonathan Butler Talks "The Grandmaster," Obsession, Madness, and the Power of Being an Outsider
Brin-Jonathan Butler has the world record for appearances on The Creative Nonfiction Podcast at four times.His new book The Grandmaster: Magnus Carlsen and the Match that Made Chess Great Again is a masterpiece. Be sure to visit Brendan O’Meara.com for show notes and to sign up for my monthly newsletter. If you want to connect on social, I”m @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod on twitter. On Facebook you can search for the podcast by name and the hanlde @CNFPodHost. If you’re an Instagrammer, I post drawings I do and audiograms from the show. Got any questions or concerns? Ping me on social or email me creativenonfictionpodcast@gmail.com. Maybe I’ll answer the question on the show. Thanks to our sponsors in Goucher College’s MFA in Nonfiction as well as Creative Nonfiction Magazine. Go check them out.
Fri, November 02, 2018
Episode 124—Natalie Singer on Finding the Time to Write and Living a Creative Life Around Day Jobs
Natalie Singer, author of California Calling: A Self Interrogation comes by the show this week. So here we are again. Happy to say last week’s episode was featured in Creative Nonfiction Magazine’s November newsletter as a “distraction,” meant only as flattery, of course. Jane Friedman, THAT Jane Friedman, also gave us a great shoutout in a blog post a few weeks ago. That’s riff worthy… Oh, you didn’t think I was gonna drop that hammer did you, sucka? Hey, this is The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to the best artists about the craft of telling true stories. I’m Brendan O’Meara (hey, hey) and this is what we do. Today I welcome Natalie Singer, author of California Calling: A Self Interrogation to the show. We talk about confidence, or the lack thereof, books as mentors, and day jobs and feeling shame for day jobs. I hope to change that perception over the next six million episodes, but shame is real, man, it is real. Well, are you subscribed to the show? You can find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and just about anywhere else you get your pods. If you like this episode, tell one friend. Hand the show off like a baton and let them run with it. I’d love to see the show grow. It’s getting there. We march on. Got a newsletter you should consider subscribing to. I give out reading recommendations, but I’m also thinking of sprinkling in some other cool stuff I’ve stumbled on over the past month in the vein of Austin Kleon’s newsletter. I love his newsletter. I’m gonna Steal Like an Artist. See what I did there? Thanks to our sponsors in Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction as well as Creative Nonfiction Magazine. So, the show is @CNFPod on Twitter and I’m @BrendanOMeara on Twitter. I don’t know. Following either of those two would be pretty rad. The show is on Facebook too if you’re into that.
Fri, October 26, 2018
Episode 123—Elena Passarello on Listening to the Book, Polaroids, and Self-Doubt
"I wanted to dig deeper into the essay collection AS they essay," says Elena Passarello. Welcome wayward CNFers, it’s the Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to bad ass writers, filmmakers, movers and shakers about the art and craft of telling true stories. Here you’ll learn the story, tips, and tactics that will inspire you to greater heights in your own own work. I’m your host Brendan O’Meara, hey, hey. Yeah, it’s Elena Passarello, not only is she wicked smaht, but we had a super fun, loose, entertaining conversation about her essays from Animals Strike Curious Poses, as well as the writing process, Metallica, and a host of wide-ranging topics. This was one of the rare in-person interviews so we had a ton of fun riffing (hey, hey) with each other. I probably talk a little too much about myself in this show, but that was the nature of the conversation, so do with that what you will. You can follow Elena on twitter @elenavox. Feel free to follow me as well @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod. FWIW, I always respond to tweets. Since you’re here, why don’t you consider A)Subscribing to the podcast wherever you jam and B) Subscribe to my newsletter over at brendanomeara.com (hey, hey). It’s once a month, no spam, can’t beat that. Hey, if you dig the show, consider sharing it with a CNFin’ buddy. Why? Because I don’t want to rely on social networks to do the work. We are the social network and if we email and share with friends we are tethered by something more than algorithms. Right? Don’t forget about my newsletter. It’s a fun bit of monthly goodness. Head over to brendanomeara.com (hey, hey) and subscribe. You can unsubscribe at any time, but know that I take it wicked personally if you do. No pressure. Remembah! If you can’t do….interview! See ya! Thanks to today's sponsors Goucher College's MFA in Nonfiction and Creative Nonfiction Magazine for the support!
Fri, October 19, 2018
Episode 122—Tracy Kidder on Writing Badly and Looking for People Over Subjects
"The possibilities of doing something similar [to fiction] in nonfiction really did appeal to me," says Tracy Kidder, winner of the Pulitzer Prize. Are you riffin’ kiddin’ me!? By virtue of today’s guest I’m assuming there might be a new CNFer or two to our little marauding gang of turbulent souls in this corner of the Internet. Welcome. We play heavy metal music, we kick maximum ass, and we will, we will rock you. This is the Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to bad ass tellers of true stories about where they came from, what and who inspires them, and how they approach the work, so that you can apply those tools of mastery to your own work. I’m your mutha-riffin’ host Brendan O’Meara, hey, hey. Today’s guest is none other than Pulitzer Prize—winning author Tracy Kidder, author of take a deep breath Brendan… Soul of a New Machine, Among Schoolchildren, Old Friends, Home Town, My Detachment, Good Prose, Mountains Beyond Mountains, Strength in What Remains, A Truck Full of Money, and House. That, CNFers, is a body of work. And who tells them better than Tracy Kidder, friends? He’s been a literary hero of mine every since I got into this mess. If you’re as big a headcase as I am, I’d go ahead and read Good Prose, the book he wrote with his long time editor and former mentor of mine Dick Todd. It lets you know that you’re not alone and these increasingly digital times, it’s easier and easier to feel, what’s the word??? Shitty... Tracy’s an apex CNFer in a long line of them that have appeared on this show. Please enjoy this conversation with the one, the only, Tracy Kidder. Cross that one off the Bucket List...How’d you like it? I hope you dug it. I tried my bestest for y’all. Thanks very much to this show’s sponsors Goucher College’s MFA program in nonfiction and Creative Nonfiction Magazine. You can visit Tracy Kidder.com for more information about Tracy and his work and events and the like. I believe he has an author Facebook page. While I’ve got your attention, I’d ask that if you dig the show, share it with a friend, subscribe, and leave an honest review over on Apple Podcasts. They’re a big, big help and I’m deeply appreciative of whatever you can do to help out the show. Visit brendanomeara.com to sign up for my monthly reading list newsletter. Great books and great podcasts. Once a month. No spam. Can’t beat that. I think that’s a wrap. Remember, if you can’t do interview! See ya! Thanks to Goucher College's MFA in Creative Nonfiction and Creative Nonfiction Magazine for sponsoring this podcast.
Fri, October 12, 2018
Episode 121—Susan Orlean on Pacing, Structure, and 'The Library Book'
Oh, hey, welcome to the show, CNFers, and, my, my, my are you in for a treat. Susan Orlean, @susanorlean on Twitter, a New Yorker staff writer and the best selling author of The Orchid Thief, Rin Tin Tin, and now her latest book, The Library Book, is out now. And it’s everything you’d expect from her work. But before we get to that, maybe you’re new to the show. Let me tell you what me and the voices in my head are up to here. This is The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to great artists about the craft of telling true stories: Leaders in narrative journalism, memoir, documentary film, essay, radio, and podcasting stop by so we can talk about their creative path and how they go about the work so you can apply those tips, tricks, and routines to your own work. Susan Orlean, susanorlean.com, came back to the show. I recommend listening to both her shows. Episode 61 talks a lot about her origin story as a writer and running your show like a business. This time around for Episode 121, she dives into her methods of structure and what her latest book—a book she never thought she’d write—is all about. Thanks to our sponsors, Goucher College’s MFA in Nonfiction and Creative Nonfiction magazine for the support. Be sure to give me a fist bump over on Twitter @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod. You can like the Facebook page too if that’s where you spend your time. And if you have questions, feel free to reach out. Also, if you dig the show, consider sharing it with a friend or even write a short review over on iTunes/Apple Podcasts. If you head over to brendanomeara.com, not only will you find show notes for the podcast, but you will also be able to sign up for my monthly newsletter where I send out reading recommendations and other CNFin’ goodies. You’d enjoy getting something tasty in your inbox from me on the first of the month, head over to the site. Once a month. No spam. Can’t beat it.
Fri, October 05, 2018
Episode 120—Eli Saslow, the Pulitzer Prize Winner on Empathy, Muscling Through Drafts, and His Book 'Rising Out of Hatred'
Eli Saslow is a Pulitzer Prize—winning journalist for The Washington Post and author of the book "Rising Out of Hatred." Thanks to our sponsors Goucher College's MFA for Nonfiction and Creative Nonfiction Magazine. Lots to love in the episode. I hope you dig it, and if you do, please share with a friend and even consider leaving an honest review over on Apple Podcasts.
Fri, September 28, 2018
Episode 119—The Multi-Hyphenated Allison K. Williams
"Every project I do has made me more fit and better to do my next project," says Allison K. Williams. It’s The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to the very best in the genre of telling true stories, how they got to where they are and the tools, tips, and tricks that make them so good at what they do. I’m your host Brendan O’Meara. Today’s guest is none other than Allison K. Williams. She’s @GuerillaMemoir on Twitter and you can visit her website at idowords.com. Allison is a performer, an editor, and a writer. She also hosts the Brevity Podcast so I recommend subscribing to that wherever you get your podcasts. I mean, while you’re doing that, why don’t you consider subscribing to this show if you don’t already. Share it with your pals if you think they’ll get some value. This is our tiny corner of the Internet and we’re making it bigger each and every week. That’s on you, brah. Oh, and you gotta sign up for my monthly newsletter. I send out my monthly reading recommendations and some other tasty goodies straight to your inbox on the first of the month. Once a month. No spam. Can’t beat it? Be sure to give your buddy Brendan a follow on the socials: @BrendanOMeara on Twitter and @CNFPod on Twitter. I post cool audiograms and quote cards on Instagram @brendanomeara. One more, there’s a Facebook page for the podcast if you do most of your hanging out over there. Remember, kids, if you can’t Do, Interview! See ya!
Fri, September 21, 2018
Episode 118—Earl Swift on Routines, Proportionality, and the Secret to Being a Fly on the Wall
Earl Swift, author of Chesapeake Requiem, stopped by CNFPod HQ to talk about his reporting and writing life.
Fri, September 14, 2018
Episode 117—Steve Brusatte and The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs
Today I present to you Steve Brusatte, author of The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs: A New History of the Lost World. The entirety of the book is brilliant but the way Steve talks about T-rexes and the Asteroid are some of the most compelling reading you’ll come across. What’s so great about this show is Steve’s passion for his work and the story behind the book, which is part serendipity, but more just how doing your THING, whatever that is over and over and over again SHOWING UP and what good things can come if that happens. It’s what I like to say is BEING IN THE GAME. You can’t be noticed, you can’t be recognized unless you’re putting it out there. I love Steve’s passion and energy and I hope you do too. Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play Music, and Stitcher!
Fri, September 07, 2018
Episode 116—Adventures in Drawing with Scott Campbell
"I find it inspiring to see people have successes. It makes me want to do better stuff," says Scott C. Scott is an author and illustrator and his latest wonderful creation is Adventures in Drawing: A Guided Sketchbook. This thing is tons of fun. I love drawing as a way unplugging my brain from my daily nonsense. His Instagram feed is chock full of his amazing and playful sketches and water colors. His great showdowns are hilarious and cute and fun. I won’t do them justice by talking about them so you should visit Scottc.com or look him up on Insta at Scottlava. We talk a lot of creative insecurities, comparing yourself to others, and the importance of community in any artistic pursuit. I wish I had two hours to talk to Scott, but we’ll have to made due with one. One other thing...are you subscribed this pod? Go find it on Apple Podcasts, Sticher, Google Play, and Spotify. And if you’re feeling kind, leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Please share this with a buddy. Go find Scott at scottc.com and follow him everywhere. Buy his book. Buy his merch. Buy a great showdown print. I deserpately want the Infinifty War print and the Spiderman Homecoming print, and the Wonder Woman print. I was thinking of suggesting a Titanic and Iceberg Great Showdown, but that seemed in bad taste. Thanks for listening CNFers. Much love from your humble host. If you can’t DO, Interview! SEE YA!
Fri, August 31, 2018
Episode 115—Candice Hare and Wide World of Horse Racing
Candice Hare, on-air talent for TVG, joins me on the show this week.
Fri, August 24, 2018
Episode 114—Matthew Polly on Bruce Lee, Shaolin Temples, and Video Games
"The great thing is if you find the right story it often is more interesting than fiction because it's weird and quirky," says author Matthew Polly. Today’s guest is Matthew Polly. You can find him on Twitter @MatthewEPolly or visit his website mattpolly.com. He’s the author of three books of nonfiction, most recently Bruce Lee: A Life. He’s a graduate of Princeton and a Rhode’s Scholar, so you can say my 1050 SAT score didn’t exactly level me up any in this conversation. You think you know Bruce Lee, but you have NO idea. None. But after 500 pages about the Kung Fu master you come away knowing the whole story. In this episode you’ll learn about Matt’s approach to writing biography, taking risks, how comedy writing helped Matt find his voice as well as who was the most influential writer to Matt as he developed as a writer himself.
Fri, August 17, 2018
Episode 113—Jennifer Goforth Gregory: Your Ticket to Earning Six Figures
"We're not each other's competition; we're each other's colleagues," says Jennifer Gregory. Content marketing superstar Jennifer Gregory came by the show this week. Her book, the Freelance Content Marketing Writer, could be a life changer for you. @ByJenGregory on Twitter, @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod on Twitter.
Fri, August 10, 2018
Episode 112—Paul Willetts Slays 'King Con'
"Revision as you go along can be tremendously destructive of what you're doing," says author Paul Willetts. I’ve had quite a run of late of guests from the other side of the pond as it were. Today is no different as I welcome Paul Willetts to the show. Paul is very smart and he loves the work. He is the author of several books of nonfiction, most recently King Con: the Bizarre Adventures of the Jazz Age’s Greatest Imposter.” Yes, that’s right. Hey, there CNFers, I’m Brendan O’Meara and this is my show... it’s the Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to the best artists about the art and craft of how they approach telling true stories: doc filmmakers like Emer Reynolds, narrative journalists like Susan Orlean and David Gran, memoirists like Mary Karr and Andre Dubus III, and essayists like Hope Wabuke, to tease out origins, routines, and habits, so you can improve your own work and maybe realize you’re not alone out there. Cuz it can be a lonely, desolate, hell scape and sometimes we need some reassurance that someone who has quote-unquote made it feels the same way. Hey, you know the drill. Reviews and ratings on Apple Podcasts, the app most of your are listening to this show on are gold. Would you consider taking a few moments out of your day to leave a review? And while you’re at it, visit brendanomeara.com for show notes and to sign up for monthly newsletters. I’ve been doing that for a few years. Once a month. No spam. Can’t beat it. Well...Paul Willetts, everybody for Episode 112, we talk about how he struggles with beginnings, walking as writing, revision, building scenes. I hope you like it. I know I I did. Here’s me and Paul.
Fri, August 03, 2018
Episode 111—The Empowering and Exciting Nature of Film with Emer Reynolds
"You're really finding the film in editing the documentary," says Emer Reynolds. The brilliant filmmaker Emer Reynolds' documentary The Farthest chronicles the incredible story behind the Voyager Mission and the desire to seek out the unknowable while also seeking to be known. The Golden Record, Carl Sagan, the personification of this little spacecraft carrying with it everything that makes us human. My guest today is based in Ireland and talks about the craft of making doc film, her obsessiveness with research, and how exciting and empowering making a film is. If you love film and true stories, as well as the vast reaches of space, then you’re going to love this. If you don’t already subscribe to the podcast, please head over to Apple Podcasts and do so. And consider leaving a rating or a review to help with the show’s visibility. Also, head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and to subscribe to my monthly newsletter where I send out my book picks and other goodies from the podcast. Please share this episode across your platforms if you dig it. Thanks to Hippocamp for the support. You only have this week to use that promo code CNFPOD, so get on it to save $50. Be sure to head over to brendanomeara.com to sign up for the monthly email newsletter. Once a month. No spam. Can’t beat it.
Fri, July 27, 2018
Episode 110—Scott Neumyer on Podcasting, Writing, and Anxiety
"I want to make something happen and I just work really hard to do it," says today's guest Scott Neumyer, a writer and host of the Anxiety Diaries Podcast. Today’s guest has a voice as smooth as velvet. It’s a voice you want to listen to over and over again and you know what? You can! Today I welcome Scott Neumyer to the show. Scott Neumyer is a writer who has been published by The New York Times, Rolling Stone, Wall Street Journal, Sports Illustrated, ESPN, GQ, Esquire, Wired, Men's Fitness, and many more publications. He is a contributor to the anthology Life Inside My Mind: 31 Authors Share Their Personal Struggles, which Simon Pulse published in 2018. He is also the creator and host of the popular Anxiety Diaries Podcast. He lives in central New Jersey with his wife, two daughters, and two cats. You can find his work at scottwrites.com This is the show where I speak to the best creators about telling true stories, how they’re told, and why it matters so you can apply those tools of mastery to your own work. I’m Brendan O’Meara, and this is The Creative Nonfiction Podcast. Scott has been working hard on his new podcast, Anxiety Diaries, and it’s raw, it’s honest, and it showcases interesting people across the mental health-sphere. In this episode we dig into his origin as a writer, influential writers, lots about the craft of interviewing, and how to launch a successful podcast. If you dig the show, please subscribe and leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Joe Rogan doesn’t need anymore. I need them. Me. Okay, CNFers, thanks for listening, let’s get right into it.
Fri, July 20, 2018
Episode 109—Jean Guerrero Tries to Solve the Mystery of Her Father
"I could leave my father as a mystery, because he was the mystery I was trying to solve," says Jean Guerrero. Today I’m joined by a special guest. You may have heard of her, maybe not, but nevertheless her name is Jean Guerrero. She is a television reporter for KPBS in San Diego covering immigration. Too bad that’s not a topical subject. She is the winner of the PEN/FUSION Emerging Writers Prize and has worked for the Wall Street Journal and has won several reporting awards. Most recently she is the author of Crux: A Cross-Border Memoir, a story about discovering her father by crossing borders both physical and spiritual. This is the show where I speak to the world’s best artists about telling true stories, how those stories are told, and why it matters to them. I’m your host Brendan O’Meara and this is The Creative Nonfiction Podcast! Hey, did you enjoy the show? Be sure to tweet us some love, I’m @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod and Jean is @jeanguerre. If you have a moment and you made it this far, please consider leaving an honest review on Apple Podcasts and if you want more goodies, head over to brendanomeara.com to sign up for my monthly reading list newsletter. Once a month. No Spam. Can’t beat it. The Creative Nonfiction Podcast is sponsored by Hippocamp 2018. Now in its fourth year, Hippocamp is a three-day Pennsylvania writing conference that features 50+ speakers, engaging sessions in four tracks, interactive all-conference panels, author and attendee readings, social activities, networking opps, and optional, intimate pre-conference workshops. The conference takes place in lovely Lancaster, from Aug. 24 through the 26th. Past keynotes have been Lee Gutkind, Mary Karr, Dinty W. Moore, and Jane Friedman (all have been past guests on the podcast. Whaaaat?) This year Abigail Thomas will be the featured speaker. Visit hippocampusmagazine.com and click the “Conference” tab in the toolbar and if you enter the keyword CNFPOD at checkout you will receive a $50 discount. This offer is only good until Aug. 10 or until all those tickets are sold. There are a limited number so act now! Like RIGHT NOW. Hippocamp 2018: Create. Share. Live.
Fri, July 13, 2018
Episode 108—Katie Baker on Working Outside of Journalism and Cultivating Enthusiasms
“Working outside of journalism before working in journalism can be a useful thing in terms of seeing how the world works,” says Katie Baker. Hey there, CNFers, it’s The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to the best artists about telling true stories, whether that’s narrative journalists, documentary filmmakers, essay and memoir writers and radio producers, I try unpack their lives and their work so you can apply those tools of mastery to your own work. I’ve been a fan of today’s guest for quite some time. Today for Ep. 108 I welcome Katie Baker to the show. She’s a staff writer for The Ringer. Prior to that she worked for Grantland, so there’s a Bill Simmons continuity thing going on there. Her work often focuses on a singular subject and she’s one of those writers that when you see her byline you know you’re in for some fun. Naturally I’ve linked to some of her work in the show notes. She’s @katiebakes on Twitter. Hey, if you enjoyed the show, let me know. I’m @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod on Twitter. You can also email me. I’d ask that if you like this episode and others that you kindly subscribe to the podcast and share it across your social platforms. Also, please consider leaving an honest rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and to subscribe to my monthly reading list newsletter. Once a month. No Spam. Can’t beat it.
Tue, July 03, 2018
Episode 107—Matt Pentz on Collaboration, Hard Work, and U.S. Soccer
“The work that you put in is what comes out,” says freelance Seattle-based sports writer Matt Pentz. Well, well, well, what’s going on CNFers, my CNF Buddies, it’s The Creative Nonfiction Podcast whereby I interview purveyors of the almighty true story. Today is no different as I welcome Matt Pentz, @mattpentz on Twitter, for Episode 107 of the podcast. Matt is a freelance sports writer based out of Seattle. In this episode we dig into his co-written expose on the U.S. Men’s Soccer Team that he wrote with Andrew Helms for The Ringer. We get real granular on how he collaborated on that piece. We also talk about how he handles his days as a freelancer and other influential writers. Share the episode if you dig it and tag me on social @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod on Twitter. You guys are the social network so when you share it, I know you’re digging it. Thanks for listening everybody. If you dig the show, consider leaving an honest review on Apple Podcasts and sharing with a friend. Reach out on the socials if you have questions, concerns, or feedback. Also, if you head over to brendanomeara.com, not only will you find show notes for every episode, but you can sign up for the ever-growing monthly reading list newsletter where I share my book recommendations for the month, as well as what you might have missed from the world of the podcast. Once a month. No spam. Can’t beat it.
Fri, June 29, 2018
Episode 106—Rebecca Fish Ewan and 'The Forces of Gravity'
“I couldn’t, as an adult, get past the story of how her life ended. And I wanted to tell the story of she lived,” says Rebecca Fish Ewan. And away we go, it’s The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to the best artists about telling true stories. For Episode 106, I welcome Rebecca Fish Ewan, author of By the Forces of Gravity (Books by Hippocampus 2018), a love story between friends that ends in tragedy told through free-verse poetry and cartoons. It’s a great reading experience and a wonderfully told story of adolescence in the 1970s Berkley. You can buy the book by visiting books.hippocampusmagazine.com or via Amazon. In this episode we dig into how Rebecca chose to write the story in the way she did The power of community Writing from the POV of her 12-year-old-self And dealing with self doubt Rebecca is @rfishewan on Instagram, her preferred social network and is @rfishewan on Facebook. Go check her out. If you’re not subscribed, be sure to hit up Apple Podcasts, Google Play Music, and Stitcher so you get a fresh delivery every Friday. Share this with people you think will dig it. Ad let me know what you think of it, what you got out of it. I’m @BrendanOMeara and @CNFPod on Twitter and @CNFPodcast on Facebook. Pick a network, any network and let’s connect. If you dig the show and you have a minute, please leave a review over on Apple Podcasts. If you show me evidence of your review, I will edit a piece of your writing of up to 2,000 word. Also, show notes and the like are at brendanomeara.com. While there you can sign up for my monthly reading list newsletter. Four books and what you might have missed from the world of the podcast. Once a month. No spam. You can’t beat that.
Fri, June 22, 2018
Episode 105—From Factories to the Front Pages with Jonathan Green
"It was always the story behind the headlines I found more intriguing," says Jonathan Green (@jonathanjagreen on Twitter). This is the Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to the best artists about telling true stories where we dig into origins, work habits and process so you can be a better a better storyteller. For Episode 105 I welcome Jonathan Green, author of “Sex Money Murder: A Story of Crack, Blood, and Betrayal” to the show. Jonathan’s story of how he became a journalist is inspiring in that he didn’t have the traditional route. We talk about his origin Using Tape Recorders Making the extra call Forming relationships among sources and much, much more. If you’re not already subscribed to the show, please head over to Apple Podcasts, Google Play Music, or Stitcher and subscribe so you can get this into your feed every Friday. Thanks to you, thanks to Jonathan for his time. Before you go on about your day, would you be so kind as to consider leaving a review of the podcast on Apple Podcasts? I’d love to see us get to 100 ratings or reviews and we’re almost halfway. It takes just a few moments, but those few moments help immeasurably. Also, if you head over to brendanomeara.com, not only will you find show notes for the episodes, but you’ll also be able to sign up for my monthly reading list newsletter. In it I share my reading recommendations for the month and what you might have missed from the world of the podcast. Once a month. No spam. Can’t beat it. Follow me on Twitter and Instagram @BrendanOMeara and followed the podcast @CNFPod on Twitter and @CNFPodcast on Facebook. You can also email me if you have any questions or concerns. If you’re struggling with your work, I’d love to help you out. So, you know, it’s been a while since I tried to get my wife to subscribe to the podcast and you know what she said: Okay, see you right here next Friday. Have a great CNFin’ week, friends. Promotional support is provided by Hippocampus Magazine. Its 2018 Remember in November Contest for Creative Nonfiction is open for submissions until July 15th! This annual contest has a grand prize of $1,000 and publication for all finalists. That’s awesome. Visit hippocampusmagazine.com for details. Hippocampus Magazine: Memorable Creative Nonfiction.
Fri, June 15, 2018
Episode 104—Elizabeth Rush on "Rising" and What It Means to Be a Woman in the Field
Here we are again, welcome to The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to the best artists about telling true stories. I’m Brendan O’Meara. I gotta say right up top that there’s been some serious issues with my hosting, Podomatic for those in the know, with the RSS Feeds. Shows are coming up unavailable in Apple Podcasts and it disappeared from Google Play and Stitcher. They say they’re on it, but it’s been three days with no improvement. You can still stream the episodes from the embedded player on my website, brendanomeara.com, but in the meantime, downloading through the most popular and widely used platform—Apple Podcasts—is impossible until Podomatic gets it fixed. You might say I’ve been shopping around for other options. Episode 104 brings back Elizabeth Rush to the podcast. Her new book Rising: Dispataches from the New American Shore (Milkweed Editions) is out. She could be coming to a city near you so check the show notes for the Rising Tour. I think that’s what Bruce Springsteen called his tour when his Rising came out. In this episode we talk about: Rising sea levels How to turn bleak material into something beautiful How Elizabeth finds teaching energizing And sexual harassment while doing fieldwork, something she’s never been asked about and was happy to get to talk about. So that’s where we’re at. Please bear with me on the RSS nonsense. If you follow the social feeds, that links you up to my website so go find @CNFPod and @BrendanOMeara on Twitter and @CNFPodcast on Facebook. Follow Elizabeth @ElizabethaRush on Twitter for all things Rising. If you made it this far I suspect you might like the show and want to help it out. Would you mind leaving an honest review on Apple Podcasts? That helps with validation and visibility. Let’s try and get to 100. We’re 57 ratings away at the moment. If a small fraction of you take out your phones, click on the star you deem appropriate, hit submit, that’s all you gotta do and you will have helped out the show in a major way. That takes like 10 seconds, if you want to leave a review, I will still edit a piece of writing up to 2,000 words for your kindness and time. Just send me a screenshot of the review with the date and we’ll get started. I also have a great monthly reading list newsletter where I send out four book recommendations and what you might have missed from the world of the podcast. I don’t get any kickbacks or anything, so it’s just things I dig and endorse for your pleasure. First of the month. No Spam. Can’t beat that.
Fri, June 08, 2018
Episode 103—Persistent, Constant, Careful Work with Dennis Overbye
“What interests me are questions that don’t have answers,” says Dennis Overbye. Promotional support is provided by Hippocampus Magazine. Its 2018 Remember in November Contest for Creative Nonfiction is open for submissions until July 15th! This annual contest has a grand prize of $1,000 and publication for all finalists. That’s awesome. Visit hippocampusmagazine.com for details. Hippocampus Magazine: Memorable Creative Nonfiction. So what is this show? It’s the Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to artists about telling true stories. Today’s guest for episode 103 is Dennis Overbye, @overbye on Twitter, a science writer for the New York Times. He’s a Pulitzer Prize-finalist and author of two books: Lonely Hearts of the Cosmos: The Story of the Scientific Quest for the Secret of the Universe and Einstein in Love: A Scientific Romance. I’d love it you subscribed to the show wherever you get your podcasts and share episodes across your social streams with people you think might get some value from the interview. You are the social network.
Fri, May 25, 2018
Episode 102—Jane Friedman on The Business of Being a Writer
"You have to decide how you want to live in this ecosystem that is morphing around you," says Jane Friedman Hey, CNFers, guess what? Promotional support is provided by Hippocampus Magazine. Its 2018 Remember in November Contest for Creative Nonfiction is open for submissions until July 15th! This annual contest has a grand prize of $1,000 and publication for all finalists. That’s awesome. Visit hippocampusmagazine.com for details. Hippocampus Magazine: Memorable Creative Nonfiction. It’s the Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to the best artists about telling true stories so you can apply those tools of mastery to your own work. For Episode 102 of CNF Pod, I welcome Jane Friedman, the titan (though not like Thanos) of the publishing industry, whose book The Business of Being a Writer, published by the University of Chicago Press, is the best and most frank book on earning a living with words. It debunks a lot of myths and, quite honestly, could save a bunch of people from getting into the biz on false delusions and might even save more people from pursuing an MFA, a degree, IMO, that leads to more debt than fulfillment, controversial as that may be. And I have one, earned on the false pretenses of career advancement, but that’s not why we’re here. Jane talks about her upbringing in a small mid-western town, I wish it was Pawnee, but it wasn’t. How a writing career is very much individualistic Dealing with shame Playing the long game Embracing Change instead of fighting it And getting beyond the idea that the book is the be all, end all Jane can be found on Twitter @janefriedman and you can find me @BrendanOMeara on Twitter and Instagram. The Podcast is @CNFPod on Twitter and @CNFPodcast on Facebook. If you have a minute or two, please consider leaving a review on iTunes/Apple Podcasts. That would mean the world to me and will help this podcast reach more people looking to tell their best true story. Head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and to subscribe to my monthly reading list newsletter. Once a month. No spam. Can’t beat it.
Fri, May 18, 2018
Episode 101—Creative Writer's Toolbelt Host Andrew Chamberlain Brings the Hammer
"You can’t be passive and just sit back and wait for things to happen," says Andrew J. Chamberlain. I’m Brendan O’Meara and this is the Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to the best artists about telling true stories: leaders in narrative journalism, podcasting, radio, doc film, essay, and memoir and tease out origins, habits, routines, tactics, so you can improve your own work. For Episode 101, I welcome fellow podcaster Andrew Chamberlain. He hosts The Creative Writers Toolbelt, a podcast that gets real granular on the writing process. He has a fiction slant, but his experience interviewing and with ghost writing opened the door for him to come on my show. As an FYI, I went on his show not too long ago, so you should go and check that out. I’ll include it in the show notes. Andy breaks it down for you in this episode. Many of the tools apply to fiction, but if you’re anything like me, you want your nonfiction to read like fiction so I think you’ll get a lot of tasty nuggets from this one. Hey, if you haven’t subscribed, go and do that on iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play Music, and soon Spotify, still waiting for approval on Spotify, but it’s coming, I promise. Today’s podcast is brought to you by the 2018 Creative Nonfiction Writers’ Conference. Now in its 6th year, the CNF Writers’ Conference is three days celebrating the art, craft, and business of writing true stories. May 24th through 26th in downtown Pittsburgh. Details at creative nonfiction.org/conference. Listeners of this podcast receive 20% off the registration price by entering coupon code CNFPODCAST during checkout. Promotional support is provided by Hippocampus Magazine. Its 2018 Remember in November Contest for Creative Nonfiction is open for submissions until July 15th! This annual contest has a grand prize of $1,000 and publication for all finalists. That’s awesome. Visit hippocampusmagazine.com for details. Hippocampus Magazine: Memorable Creative Nonfiction. Head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes for this and 100 other episodes. Follow me on Twitter @BrendanOMeara or @CNFPod. The podcast is on Facebook @CNFPodcast. Sign up for my monthly reading list newsletter. It comes out on the first of the month and gives you a sampling of good books and what you might have missed from the world of the podcast. Once a month. No spam. Can’t beat it.
Fri, May 11, 2018
Episode 100—Mary Karr Talks 'Tropic of Squalor,' Grinding Through Early Drafts, and Cellos
"If I can get through the horribleness of the first draft, I have a chance," says Mary Karr. Today’s podcast is brought to you by the 2018 Creative Nonfiction Writers’ Conference. Now in its 6th year, the CNF Writers’ Conference is three days celebrating the art, craft, and business of writing true stories. May 24th through 26th in downtown Pittsburgh. Details at creative nonfiction.org/conference. Listeners of this podcast receive 20% off the registration price by entering coupon code CNFPODCAST during checkout Promotional support is provided by Hippocampus Magazine. Its 2018 Remember in November Contest for Creative Nonfiction is open for submissions until July 15th! This annual contest has a grand prize of $1,000 and publication for all finalists. That’s awesome. Visit hippocampusmag.com for details. Hippocampus Magazine: Memorable Creative Nonfiction. Whoa, boy, CNFers, it’s Episode 100 of The Creative Nonfiction Podcast. 100? Here for the first time? This is my jam, the show where I speak to the best artists about telling true stories: leaders in narrative journalism, memoir, doc film, radio, and personal essay to tease out tactics, habits, origins, and routines so you can improve your own work. I’m your host Brendan O’Meara. Be sure to subscribe wherever you get your pods and share with a fellow CNF Buddy. Man…Are you serious? 100 episodes and for this special occasion we here at CNF Pod HQ bring you Mary Karr. I’m sure 99.9% of you know who she is, but if you don’t here’s the rundown: She’s the best-selling author of The Liar’s Club, Cherry, Lit, The Art of Memoir, and five books of poetry, including her latest, Tropic of Squalor published by Harper. Mary is a professor at Syracuse University and is best known and most responsible for the boom in memoir when The Liar’s Club kicked all our asses and showed us what a personal story could be. We talked a lot about the importance of patience, working through dozens of drafts, the nature of talent, and cellos, yes, cellos. She’s @marykarrlit on Twitter and Facebook and her website is marykarr.com. Be sure to stick through the end of the show where Mary reads two amazing poems from Tropic of Squalor. You don’t want to miss out on that tasty goodness. If you head over to brendanomeara.com you’ll find show notes as well as a chance to subscribe to my monthly reading list newsletter. And, no, if you click through and buy books I don’t get any kickbacks so you can rest assured that I’m selecting books that I enjoyed and get no compensation for. Once a month. No spam. Can’t beat that. You can also support the podcast by leaving a review on iTunes as that helps our little corner of the internet get a little bit bigger. If you leave an honest review and send me a screenshot, I’ll coach up a piece of your work of up to 2,000 words. No diggity. That’s gonna do it, CNFers. Here’s to the next 100 CNFin’ shows up in your ears.
Fri, May 04, 2018
Episode 99—David Grann on 'The Killers of the Flower Moon' and Why Every Story is a Struggle
"I'd rather find the story and excavate it than make it up," says bestselling author and New Yorker staff writer David Grann. The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I talk to the best artists about telling true stories and tease out origins, tactics, and habits so you can apply those tools of mastery to your own work. Welcome, CNFers, my CNFbuddies, oh, I’m feelin’ good today and boy do I have a treat for you. But first, if you don’t subscribe to the show, go and get it on Apple Podcasts, Google Play Music, Stitcher, and soon Spotify and join our little tribe in this true story corner of the Internet. For Episode 99 I welcome David Grann, a New Yorker staff writer and the best-selling author of The Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI. This is the best book I’ve read all year and with good reason. We dig into his approach to writing this book as well as key literary influences and why he ultimately landed on telling true stories. Killers of the Flower Moon, a National Book Award finalist, is now available in paperback. You can find more about David at his website davidgrann.netlify.com and follow him on Twitter @DavidGrann. Big thanks as always to you the listener and to David for taking the time. Hey, wanna help the show? Share this episode with a friend and think about giving it a review on iTunes. If you leave an honest review, send me a screenshot of it and I’ll coach up a piece of your work of up to 2,000 words. Head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and to subscribe to my monthly reading list newsletter. I give out my reading recommendations and what you might have missed from the world of the podcast. Once a month. No spam. Can’t beat it. Is that it? I think it is. Thanks for listening, CNFers. I’m out.
Fri, April 27, 2018
Episode 98—Lisa Romeo on Her Memoir "Starting with Goodbye" and the Power of Paper Habits
"I think it's important to get perspectives from people who don't write exactly what you write," says Lisa Romeo. You know the drill…It’s the Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak with leaders in the field of nonfiction about telling true stories, narrative journalists, doc film makers, essayists, memoirists, and radio producers to tease out tactics, habits, and routines, so you can apply those tools to your own work. If you don’t already subscribe to the show, do it on Apple Podcasts. Google Play Music, Stitcher, and very soon, Spotify. If the episode or episodes strike a chord, share it with your friends. You are the social network, not those other goons. Episode 98 feature Lisa Romeo (@lisaromeo on twitter), whose memoir Starting with Goodby: A Daughter’s Memoir of Love after Loss” tells the story of her late father and the continued relationship Lisa has with him in memory. It’s not a downer. Lisa writes it with such great tact that you never feel weighed down. Quite the opposite, really. She talks about: Brain dumps Writing right away as a form of note taking even while close to the trauma Getting perspectives from people outside your genre And the Power of Paper Habits Head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes and to sign up for my monthly reading list newsletter. Operative word monthly. I send out my reading recs along with what you might have missed ffrom the world of the podcast. You can even ask for my new CNF Pod Zine! Issue No. 1 is out. Also, if you leave an honest review on iTunes and send me a screeshot of it, I’ll coach up a piece of your writing of up to 10 pages or about 2,000 words. That’s not reserved for five-star reviewers. You can leave a two-star review and I’ll still honor the deal, though if you made it this far you likely think the show has more than two stars worth of value, but whatever. These are things that move the meter in the podcastosphere, so those are deeply appreciated.
Wed, April 25, 2018
Episode 97—Jeff Geiger on Oral Storytelling, Failure, and Fear as Feul
"If you're not doing something that scares you, at least a little bit, then you're wasting your time artistically," says Jeff Geiger. So, imagine a candle and it has two wicks, one on the top and one on the bottom. Now picture me lighting the candle at both ends. Do you see this fresh imagery? It’s almost as if this candle will burn out before its time. I only wish this represented something. What’s this? It’s not Friday! What is the meaning of these CNFin’ shenanigans? Well CNFers, I’m going to try and kill myself and do two episodes a week. Is this sustainable? The short answer is, of course, no, but if it can be managed that’s twice as many CNF buddies, twice the reach, twice the insights and double the insanity. This Taco Tuesday I bring you the one and only Jeff Geiger, jcgeiger.com, j.c.geiger on Instagram. Jeff recently won a Moth Grand Slam event, a five-minute oral true story. Unfortunately you won’t hear that story, but his winning that event is what opened the door to have him—a novelist by trade—on the Creative Nonfiction Podcast. What is this podcast wayward listener? It’s the show where I speak to the world’s best artists about creating works of nonfiction or tellers of true tales: leaders in narrative journalism, documentary film, essay, memoir, and radio where I tease out origins, habits, routines, and debilitating self-doubt so you can apply those tools of mastery to your own work. Jeff’s book “Wildman,” was named a 2017 YA book of the year by Amazon and is one of those great coming of age books that is fun and illuminating to read. This episode is chock full of good and tasty nuggets. Jeff talks about his: Failures Transformation Oral story telling Not getting sucked down into the sunk costs of writing years in a different genre. Bonus: Jeff is one of those amazingly energetic and energizing people, so I think you’ll get done with this episode and want to do your best work. So go ahead and subscribe to the show wherever you get your podcasts. It’ll be on Spotify soon as well the normal places (iTunes, Google Play, and Stitcher). Share this with a friend if you think they’ll dig it. Share it across you social platforms to spread the word. CNFers, this is what we do. Enjoy episode 97 with Jeff Geiger! So, we hit the 40 rating/review mark and I wanna thank all of you for taking the time, but let’s not stop there. Let’s get to the 50s, because reviews and ratings will help this little corner of the internet gain a bit of traction so we can reach and empower more tellers of true tales. Head over to brendanomeara.com for show notes, but also to subscribe to my monthly newsletter where I hand out my nonfiction (and sometimes fiction) recommendations for the month as well as tidbits from the podcast. Once a month. No spam. Can’t beat that. Got a question or concern? Ping me on Twitter @BrendanOMeara or @CNFPod. Like the Facebook page @CNFPodcast or send me an electronic mail gram. As always, thanks for listening. Good bye till next tim
Fri, April 20, 2018
Episode 96—Emily Poole Illustrated
"When you need stuff done in conservation, you've gotta connect with the heart," says Emily Poole, illustrator for "Birdnote." Hey, it’s the Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show were I speak to the world’s best artists about creating works of nonfiction, leaders in narrative journalism, doc film, memoir, essay, and radio and tease out habits, origins, routines and punishing self doubt so that you can apply those tools of mastery to your own work. I’m your host, Brendan O’Meara, hey, hey… Today’s episode is a little different for a couple reasons. One, it’s the first IN-PERSON interview in the history of the podcast. Two, it’s with an illustrator, whose book, "Birdnote: Chirps, Quirks, and Stories of 100 Birds from the Popular Public Radio Show" (published by Sasquatch), is out now. Said illustrator is Emily Poole (epooleart on Instagram). Emily banged out 100 original illustrations and the cover for 101 paintings in about three months time. How’d she do it? Bird by bird, buddy #AnneLamott. In this episode you’ll learn about: How Emily set up her days to accomplish this incredible feat of work. How she’s able to process useful criticism vs. criticism that’s more hurtful than helpful. And why art is important in the world of conservation. Anyway, this was a fun conversation and I hope you dig it. Be sure to pick up a copy of Birdnote for the bird lover in your life. It won’t disappoint, and neither will Episode 96 with Emily Poole! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you get your pods and consider leaving an honest review on iTunes to help bolster our little corner of the CNFin' Internet.
Sat, April 14, 2018
Episode 95—Mike Sager on the Magical Nature of Creating, Suspending Disbelief, and Preaching Beyond the Choir
"I have a body of work that's based on work ," says Mike Sager. Hey, today I bring you the incomparable Mike Sager, @therealsager on Twitter. He of The Sager Group. He of the National Magazine Award. He of he talks you listen. In Episode 95 of the creative nonfiction podcast he talks about his humble start in journalism, suspending disbelief, the power of creating something, and journalism as sport. His collections of journalism include: The Lonely Hedonist , which includes all new material, Wounded Warriors , The Someone You’re Not, Stoned Again, The Devil and John Holmes, and Revenge of the Donut Boys, which features the iconic profile of Rosanne Barr, a feature that feels timely with the reboot of the show. All of these books you can find at thesagergroup.net where you can buy them and learn a thing or two. His collections are an education. You wanna be good? You wanna be great? You gotta read Mike’s work, after you listen to this episode of course.
Sat, April 07, 2018
Episode 94—Finding Clarity with Kevin Wilson
"In order to go fast, you've gotta go slow," says Kevin Wilson on Episode 94 of the podcast. Oh, the intro is back. The oral surgery disaster is ongoing, but I’m powering through. Might lose my bone graft because my stupid body won’t pump blood to it. It’s friggin’ bullshit, but all I can do is keep my fingers crossed that the surgery wasn’t for nothing. There are some podcasts that make me want to go out and be a better man and Kevin Wilson, back for his second at-bat for The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, is one of those guys. He’s president and founder of KWBaseball. He’s a hitting coach to developing players and several pros. His second book, Finding Clarity: A Mindful Look into the Art of Hitting, sounds like a baseball book. I know what you’re thinking, “Brendan, I don’t like sports. I don’t care about baseball. WTF, man.” Like Kevin’s #Goodbatting book we spoke about on Episode 32, “Finding Clarity” has so much value to anyone in any discipline. You can overlay your own experience onto the wisdom Kevin shares. You can read the book over a cup of coffee, but spend several hours journaling over the quick-hit questions at the end of the chapters. I’m telling you, give this one a chance. He talks about finding his “Why” Intentionality Sharing Failure Listening And slowing down to go faster If you don’t already subscribe, consider subscribing on iTunes, Stitcher, or Google Play Music. I’d deeply appreciate a rating or a review on iTunes if you can spare the time. Show notes are available at brendanomeara.com. There you can sign up for my montly reading list newsletter. It’s a fun bit of goodness that hits on the first of the month. Once a month. No spam. You can’t beat that. This show is produced, hosted, booked, and edited by me, Brendan O’Meara. I’m on Twitter and Instagram @BrendanOMeara. The podcast is @CNFPod on Twitter and @CNFPodcast on Facebook.
Fri, March 30, 2018
Episode 93—The Hidden Life of Life with Elizabeth Marshall Thomas
"What I wanted to do was show the commonality of all life on earth...it seemed important to me that we're related," says Elizabeth Marshall Thomas. You'll excuse that there's not traditional intro and outro to this show. You might even prefer it. I've had what I can only hope is a MINOR complication with recent oral surgery and don't want to talk and thus compound the problem at hand. I won't bore you. EMT returns to the show to talk about her new book "The Hidden Life of Life: A Walk Through the Reaches of Time (Penn State University Press, 2018). Carl Safina, author of "Beyond Words," writes, "We are lucky to have shared some time on Earth with Elizabeth Marshall Thomas...Reading her is like looking through a telescope and realizing that the brightness you see actually happened long, long ago and has taken all this time to reach your own eyes." Dig the show? Consider leaving an honest review on iTunes and I will coach up a piece of your writing up to 2,000 words. Reviews are the currency that drives the podcast economy and I'd be thrilled if you added your two cents. Maybe I'll be able to talk next week. In the meantime, enjoy Episode 93.
Fri, March 23, 2018
Episode 92—Ellen Stokken Dahl and "The Wonder Down Under"
"Lack of information can ruin people's lives in a profound way," says Norwegian medical student and co-author of "The Wonder Down Under," Ellen Stokken Dahl. So I had oral surgery this week so my capacity to speak with my face mouth is greatly hampered. Welcome to the Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to the best artists about telling true stories, teasing out their origins, habits, and routines, so that you can apply some of those tools of mastery to your own work. What’s goin’ on CNFers! CNFbuddies! I recorded this interview with Ellen prior to the surgery so I sound like a human person through the interview. She along with Nina Brochmann wrote "The Wonder Down Under: The Insider’s Guide to the Anatomy, Biology, and Reality of the Vagina." It’s quite a fun read. Both Ellen and Nina are touring the U.S. as we speak since the book caught fire after their TEDxOslo talk about “The Virginity Fraud," breaking myths about the hymen and such got over 2 million views. It's up near 3 million now. Go take a look in the show notes. I spoke only with Ellen for this episode because Nina got sick at the last minute. Only one brilliant Scandanavian for you this week... Ellen hits on: How her curiosity led her to women’s health Co-authoring a book and co-writing a TED Talk How the lack of information can ruin lives And processing a new sense of global visability Yeah, a little house keeping, I’d love for you subscribe to the show so you can get one of these nifty little podcasts every Friday. Also, if you leave an honest review on iTunes I’ll edit/coach up a piece of your work up to 2,000 words. You give me one minute of your review time, I’ll give you a couple hours of mine. Not a bad deal for you. Okay, now it’s time to hear the brilliant … for episode 92, wow.
Fri, March 16, 2018
Episode 91—Mary Pilon's Freelance Rumspringa and the Best Advice She Got from David Carr
"Anybody who gets into journalism for fame for fortune or awards right off the bat I write off as an idiot," says Mary Pilon. So what’s the meaning of this? Mary Pilon again? For one I could listen to 52 episodes of Mary, but when we recorded I spliced the interview in two parts to shorten it and I’m glad I did at this point because my guest this week cancelled. What’s the lesson kids? Get interviews in the can. When I can it’s brilliant. Can’t always happen. Mary Pilon’s second book, The Kevin Show, is out now. She’s also the author of the bestseller The Monopolists. Her work appears in the New Yorker, NBC, the New York Times, Grantland. She’s been featured in Best American Sports Writing. She’s a boss. So for episode 91 of The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to the worlds best artists about creating works of nonfiction, leaders in narrative journalism, doc film, radio, essay, and memoir, and tease out origins, routines, habits, key influences, favorite books and movies so that you can browse those tips and see what works for you, I’m sharing a bit of Mary’s origin story: How did she become one of those Best 30 Journalists Under 30? How did she get to the Wall Street Journal and How did she survive her New York Times layoff? How did she ignite her freelance career? What’s an anchor gig? And the best advice she received from the late journalist David Carr. We dig into all that fun stuff. Pair this episode with Ep. 18 and Ep. 90 and you’ll have the perfect Mary Pilon trilogy. Little bit of housekeeping: I’m still doing edits for reviews. Give an honest review of the podcast on iTunes—one to five stars, your choice—show me proof, and I’ll coach up a piece of your work of up to 2,000 words. You can also leave an honest rating, which takes quite literally less than 10 seconds to do once you’re in iTunes.
Fri, March 09, 2018
Episode 90—Mary Pilon Brings You "The Kevin Show"
"I can't think about writing a big project. It's too overwhelming for me but I can think about a thousand words a day and then this magical thing happens which is you end up with 90,000 words," says Mary Pilon (@marypilon). Hey, there CNFers, my CNFbuddies, I’m Brendan O’Meara and this is my podcast. The Creative Nonfiction Podcast is the show where I speak to the world’s best artists about creating works of nonfiction: leaders in narrative journalism, essay, memoir, radio, and documentary film to tease out origins, habits, routines, key influences, mentors, self-doubt, so you can ‘Oh, that’s pretty cool, I’m not alone. I’m not a loser.’ And apply those tools of mastery to your own work. I welcome back Mary Pilon who hasn’t been on the show since Episode 18, now we’re on Episode 90. Mary comes back because she has a new book out: The Kevin Show: An Olympic Athlete’s Battle with Mental Illness.” Feel free to say hi to me on Twitter, @BrendanOMeara or @CNFPod, Instagram @BrendanOMeara where I’m showing how I’m making the first issue of CNF Pod Zine. What? A zine? Oh, yeah. And Facebook, @CNFPodcast. Say hi, my friends say I’m a pretty cool guy. That’s it CNFers, have a CNFin’ great week.
Fri, February 23, 2018
Episode 89—Sarah Minor Isn't Your Typical Writer
"I have to remind myself that I have to be a little nuts to do this. I think all writers have to be a little crazy," says Sarah Minor. This week I bring you Episode 89 with Sarah Minor, @sarahceniaminor on Twitter and @sarahcenia on Instagram). She is a professor and a writer and her essay "Threaded Forms: Decentered Approaches to Nonfiction," looks to knitters, stitchers, and quilting bees to discover new and subversive models for writing memoir. In this episode we talk about: Visual Essays How boredom dictates her direction Losing voice and finding it And the ever-present battle of dealing with social media Let's do this. Okay, if you go over to brendanomeara.com you'll be able to sign up for my monthly reading list newsletter that has book recommendations and what you might have missed from the world of the podcast. Once a month. No spam. Can't beat it. You can say hi to me on Twitter and Instagram @BrendanOMeara. @CNFPod is the podcast Twitter page and @CNFPodcast is the Facebook page. You'll find me hawking over those territories all the time.
Fri, February 16, 2018
Episode 88—Rachel Corbett says "Stop Trying So Hard."
"It's usually when you stop trying so hard that something happens," says Rachel Corbett, a New York-based writer and author. Hey, there CNF-buddys, I’m comin’ at you live from my shiny new digs. New house up in Eugene and I’ve got a nice little office I can call my own. There’s no foam on the walls yet, so please pardon the audio, but we’re making strides to be the best. Part of that is me shutting the front door and getting the hell out of the way. I still haven’t quite figured out a way to completely edit myself out of these interviews. But I’m working on it. Don’t worry… Rachel Corbett joins me this week for Episode 88 of The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak with the best artists about creating works of nonfiction, leaders in the world of narrative journalism, essay, memoir, radio, and documentary film where I try and tease out origins, habits, routines, mentors, key influences, so you can apply some of their tools of mastery to your own work. Rachel is a freelance journalist whose work appears in a few rags you might have heard of: The New Yorker, the New York Times, etc. She’s also the author of You Must Change Your Life, The Story of Rainer Maria Rilke and Auguste Rodin. She is @rachelncorbett on Twitter. Rachel hits on some key points about carving out your own niche How things come easier when you stop trying so hard Listening vs. talking Getting away from the work so you can come back refreshed. And the power of being dumb and defeated (some of us were born this way). Stay tuned to the end of the show for some incentivized calls to action. In the meantime, here’s my conversation with the brilliant Rachel Corbett.
Fri, February 09, 2018
Episode 87—Hope Wabuke on Empowering the Marginalized, Starting from the Present, and Finding Her Experience
"I like to start from the present," says Hope Wabuke. "It's vibrant and visceral and has these questions that are lingering throughout time but we can access them." Let’s talk to Hope Wabuke this week for episode 87… She’s @hopewabuke on Twitter and at hopewabuke.com. Hope is a poet, though she knows it, and her essay “The Animal in the Yard” is one of six 2018 Pushcart nominations for Creative Nonfiction Magazine, no we’re not a couple, but our friends tells us we like each other. I had a real hard time cutting this interview down, something I do to all of them, because she is so wise and illuminating throughout, that I left it largely untouched.
Fri, February 02, 2018
Episode 86—Noah Strycker on his Big Year in Birding, Community, and What to Leave Out
"My best advice to people who want to write in any capacity is just do it. Get started. It doesn't matter where you publish," says Noah Strycker, author of Birding Without Borders. My guest today for Episode 86 of the Creative Nonfiction Podcast is Noah Strycker, author of Birding without Borders: An Obsession, A Quest, and the Biggest Year in the World.
Fri, January 26, 2018
Episode 85—Jamie Zvirsdin on Sincerity, Permission, and Hard Work
“To be sincere is to be powerful and creative nonfiction allows me to do that, to be sincere," says Jamie Zvirzdin. Hey CNFers, hope you’re having a CNFin’ good week. It’s The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to the world’s best artists about creating works of nonfiction: leaders in the world of personal essay, memoir, narrative journalism, documentary film, and radio and try to tease out origins, habits, and craft so you can experiment with any cool nuggets you hear. Today’s guest was the runner up in Creative Nonfiction’s “Science and Religion” contest from Issue 65. It’s Jamie Zvirzdin and her essay “Shuddering Before the Beautiful”: Trains of Thought Across the Mormon Cosmos details Jamie’s conflict with the Mormon church and her ultimate break from it, but doing it in a very empathetic way. There’s no vindictiveness in the story. She just lays it all out there. So we dig into that a bit. In this episode you’ll also learn: Her Fragment Heaven and Graveyard Hell How she’s really analog when it comes to scheduling Her addiction to learning And lots of influential books and writers I think Tom Petty said, “Don’t bore us, get to the chorus!” So here’s my conversation with the great Jamie Zvirzdin.
Fri, January 19, 2018
Episode 84—Adam Valen Levinson: Young and Restless
Hey there CNF buddies, hope you’re havin’ a CNFin’ great week. What fuels you? What gets your engine revved up? What makes you redlined? For me it’s an interview and, dare I say, a riff… It’s the Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to the world’s best artists about creating works of nonfiction, leaders in the world of narrative journalism, memoir, documentary film, radio, and essay and try tease out the origins and habits so that you can apply those tools of mastery to your own work. For Episode 84, I welcome Adam Valen Levinson. Adam’s a smart guy, a real smart guy, and he’s written the wonderful book “The Abu Dhabi Bar Mitzvah: Fear and Love in the Modern Middle East.” Flip the book over and here’s a blurb from Buzz Bissinger, “Adam Valen Levinson is too young to have written a book this good: eloquent, analytical, funny, sad.” Still not impressed? Peter Theroux said, “A fabulously written primer on the darkest countries in the world—or not so dark, as Valen Levinson shows with his toolkit of sharp sociology and brilliant humor.” Well, I feel inadequate. Here’s a little more about Adam from his dust jacket bio: He is a journalist and travel writer whose work focuses on human stories in conflict areas. His work has appeared in numbers outlets, including VICE, the Paris Review, Al Jazeera, and Haaretz. He is an affiliate of the Middle East Institute in Washington DC and a Fellow at the Center for Cultural Sociology at Yale University, studying humor as a key to cultural understanding. Damn. I make donuts and talk to people. Okay, so here’s that part where I ask you that if you dig the show, consider subscribing and sharing it with a fellow CNFer. Leave an honest rating on iTunes, which takes a few seconds, or leave a rating and a review and in exchange, I’ll coach up a piece of your work, up to 2,000 words. That’s the deal. That’s like a $100 value once I’m all done because I read things three times and mark things up like it’s my job.
Fri, January 12, 2018
Episode 83—Victoria Stopp on Battling Chronic Pain, Being Disorganized, and Writing in a Camper
"Going toward solitude and away from excuses has really helped me," says Victoria Stopp. Hey there, CNFers, my CNF buddies, hope you’re having a CNFin’ great start to the new year. Jan 1 is just a day like any other, but we as a culture have assigned supreme import to that day. If you’re coming here for the first time because your resolution is to listen more podcasts or you want to kickstart projects in the genre of creative nonfiction, then let me tell you the deal: This is The Creative Nonfiction Podcast—hello—the show where I speak with the world’s best artists about creating works of nonfiction: leaders in the worlds of narrative journalism, documentary film, radio, essay, and memoir and try to tease out habits, routines, and origins so that you can use their tools of mastery in your own work. I’m Brendan O’Meara. For Episode 83 of the podcast, I had the distinct pleasure of speaking with Victoria Stopp. You can find her on Twitter @victoriastopp or at her website victoriastopp.com. Her book Hurting Like Hell, Living with Gusto: My Battle with Chronic Pain, published by McFarland, tells the story of how she became mired in chronic pain after a traumatic neck injury. The book goes into great detail about her journey and how low and powerless it made her feel. Spoiler alert: she’s here to talk about it. In this episode we also talk about being super disorganized, finding solitude, how writing keeps pulling Victoria back even after she tried giving it up. Dig the show? Share this with a friend and consider subscribing. I ask that you leave an honest rating or a review on iTunes. Ratings take five seconds; reviews about a minute. 2018 is all about growth and having ratings and reviews helps with visibility. Did you know that I have a monthly newsletter? It’s true. I send it out on the first of the month and it contains my book recommendations for the month as well as what you might have missed from the world of the podcast. Once a month. No Spam. Can’t beat it. Also consider leaving an honest review over on iTunes. You’re already doing a lot by listening, but if you can spare a minute or two I’d deeply appreciate it. You can follow me on Twitter @BrendanOMeara and the podcast now has its own Twitter account @CNFPod. It also has a Facebook page, so if you want the full immersive Creative Nonfiction Podcast experience, be sure to Like or Follow all the channels.
Fri, January 05, 2018
Episode 82—The Language of the Gods
Hey, there CNFers, Happy New Year. It’s 2018 and we’re gettin’ rollin’ here for the biggest, baddest year for The Creative Nonfiction Podcast. And what is the Creative Nonfiction Podcast? It’s the show where I speak to the world’s best artists about creating works of nonfiction: leaders in the worlds of narrative journalism, documentary film, radio, essay and memoir, and tease out the habits and routines so that you can apply their tools of mastery to your own work. I’m Brendan O’Meara. And to kick off the New Year, I’m actually not interviewing anyone because I’ve been traveling around creation at significant personal cost to see family and friends on the East Coast. So Episode 82 is me reading “The Language of the Gods,” my essay for Chris Arvidson’s and Diana Nelson Jones’ collection of baseball essays in “The Love of Baseball: Essays by Lifelong Fans.” The essay does have some footnotes, something I used to love, but am starting to have mixed feelings about, so when the footnotes appear, you’ll hear me say FOOTNOTE and I’ll read it followed by END FOOTNOTE. They’re not too disruptive. This is gonna be a big year, so if you dig the show, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, share it with a friend, and leave an honest review on iTunes. I’m extending my offer to edit a piece of your work up to 2,000 words and an hour of my time just for leaving a candid review. Just send me a screenshot of the review when it posts and I’ll reach out.
Fri, December 22, 2017
Episode 81—Google as Religious Experience and Trusting Self-Doubt with Rachel Wilkinson
"Research is this vehicle that allows you to follow your interests however long you want to follow it," says Rachel Wilkinson. For Episode 80 of The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak with the world's best artists about creating works of nonfiction, I spoke with Rachel Wilkinson, a writer and research based out of Pittsburgh, PA. Her essay, "Search History," won Best Essay for Creative Nonfiction Magazine's Science and Religion contest for Issue 65. It's Google as religious experience, how the very act of asking questions is very faith-based, and, if we're getting grim and dystopian, how this technology, which is getting increasingly sentient, might supplant us some day. #spitoutthebone (Metallica reference for all y'all.) In our conversation we talk a lot how she crafted this essay and how it hangs on a big idea rather than sheer character drive, David Foster Wallace, The War of Art, the fun of research, embracing failure, and trusting—yes, trusting—self-doubt. Self-doubt is my spirit animal. Hey, are you digging the show? I'd love it if you subscribed to the show, shared it with a fellow CNFer. Leave an honest review on iTunes and I'll give you an editorial consult on the house. Just send me a screenshot of your review and I'll reach out. Thanks for listening!
Fri, December 15, 2017
Episode 80—The Wild Life of Elizabeth Marshall Thomas
Elizabeth Marshall Thomas, author of several books including "Tamed and Untamed," says, "I don't think I followed a very traditional pathway. I did what I felt like doing." What shenanigans are we up to here? It’s the Creative Nonfiction Podcast where I speak with the world’s best artists about creating works of nonfiction. Leaders in the worlds of narrative journalism, personal essay, memoir, radio, and documentary film come here to talk about their origins, inspirations, and work habits so that you can apply their tools of mastery to your own work. For episode 80, I had the privilege of speaking to Elizabeth Marshall Thomas, who co-authored “Tamed and Untamed” with Sy Montgomery (of episode 79 fame). Elizabeth’s career is wide, vast, and prolific as you’ll soon hear. We talk about: Lessons she learned from reading Hemingway The Power of Ignorance Walking off with wolves How circumstances organize the work And the clear feeling of the early hours While we continue to party on here in the intro I cordially ask you for HONEST reviews over on the iTunes. It’s what drives visibility and credibility to CNFers like yourself. Send me a screenshot of your review and I will give you a free hour of my time to edit a piece of your work. You give you get. T’is the season. Make sure that review is time stamped in December 2017 and you’re golden. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the podcast. Thanks for listening.
Fri, December 08, 2017
Episode 79—From Potholes in Parking Lots to the Jungles of Borneo with Sy Montgomery
"I have never picked the safe option and I have never regretted choosing what I've chosen ever," says Sy Montgomery. Hey there, CNFers, hope you're having a CNFin' good week. My, oh, my, where do we start? Maybe if you're new to the podcast I should let you know what it's about. This is the show where I speak to the world's best artists about creating works of nonfiction: leaders in narrative journalism (like Susan Orlean), personal essay (like Matthew Mercier), memoir (like Pulitzer Prize-winner Madeleine Blais), radio (Joe Donahue), and documentary film like (Jeff Krulik and Penny Lane). As of now it's mainly writers, but I'm scurrying like heck to get more filmmakers and radio producers on the show. It's my job to tease out origins, habits, routines, and points of craft so that you can apply those tools of mastery to your own work. I also hope that in having these conversations you might also not feel as lonely or alone in your artistic pursuits. You'll notice every single guest has the same set of anxieties you have and they manage to get the work done. I deal with my own self-hatred and lack of worth from the moment my alarm goes off at 4 a.m. so there you have it. Today's guest is Sy Montgomery and you probably know her from her gargantuan bestseller The Soul of an Octopus: A Surprising Exploration into the World of Consciousness. It was a National Book Award Finalist and just one of the literally dozens of books Sy has written about animals. In this episode we talk about: Sy getting her start as a business writer in Buffalo, NY Belief in projects even when you don't believe in yourself Being open to your expectations of a story changing as you go And much, much more Frankly, I came away from this conversation feeling good, just good, and the people who make you feel that way are the people you want to surround yourself with. I know I ended that sentence with a preposition, but whatever. Before I send you off into the Animal Kingdom with Sy, here's that part where I ask you to leave an honest review on the iTunes. Any review posted from now through the end of 2017 gets an hour-long editorial consult from me, which is a $50 value if you like putting dollars and cents on things. Simply send me a screenshot of your review and I'll reach out. My pile of editorial is growing thanks to you. Reviews are the currency we play with to reach more people and empower them to do the kind of work they find most inspiring.
Sat, December 02, 2017
Episode 78—Louisa Thomas on Problematic Writers, Mercenary Work, and Picking Up the Phone
"For me, I'm thinking about the writing from the very first second I get an assignment," says Louisa Thomas, who made the 2017 volume for Best American Sports Writing. "I'm thinking about tone, and texture, and influences." I’m here to showcase the world’s best artists and how they create work of nonfiction so you can use their tools of master to improve your own work. Louisa Thomas joins me this week. She’s @louisahthomas on Twitter. She recently made the big book for The Best American Sports Writing for her piece Serena Williams, Andy Murray, and a Political Wimbledon. In this episode we talk about: Her biography Louisa: The Extraordinary Life of Mrs. Adams. Working with Problematic Writers and How Not to be One Mercenary Writing And what she learned working with New Yorker editor David Remnick How she organizes her titanic feats of research and much more People are taking advantage of my free hour of editorial work and coaching, about a $50 value. Want in? All you have to do is leave an honest review on iTunes and have it postmarked by the end of December. Send me a screenshot of your review and you’ll be on your way. Reviews validate the podcast and increase its visibility so we can reach more CNFin’ people. I’m not even asking for a 5-star review, merely an honest one because that comes from a more authentic place. All right, enough of my stupid face, time to hear from Louisa Thomas, thanks for listening.
Fri, November 24, 2017
Episode 77—Blaire Briody says Good Reporting is Good Writing
For episode 77, I welcome Blaire Briody, that’s @blairebriody on Twitter. She is a freelance journalist who has written for The New York Times, Popular Science, Popular Mechanics, Fast Company, Glamour, among others. Her first nonfiction book, The New Wild West: Black Gold, Fracking, and Life in a North Dakota Boomtown. The book was the 2016 finalist for the Lukas Work-in-Progress Award from Columbia Journalism School and Harvard University, and she received the Richard J. Margolis Award for social justice journalism in 2014. Blaire won Proximity Magazine’s second annual narrative journalism prize for her piece “It Takes a Boom,” which chronicles Cindy Marchello, the lone woman in the vast fracking sites in North Dakota. Ted Conover, author of several books and immersion journalist of the highest order, judged the contest, you can also hear him back on Ep. 50 of The Creative Nonfictoin Podcast, and here’s what he had to say about Blaire’s gold-medal piece: "This vivid portrait of a woman trying to work oil fields during the fracking boom rings totally true—we seldom meet people like Cindy Marchello in narrative journalism, but I don’t doubt for a second they’re here. I love the frankness and the matter-of-factness. Both Blaire Briody and her subject won my heart, and admiration." Nice… Speaking of being thankful, reviews and ratings have been flowing in and I want to extend a big, big thanks to those who are doing that and taking advantage of my editing offer as a result. What’s this? In exchange for an HONEST—it doesn’t have to be a good one, just an honest one—review on iTunes, I’m offering an hour of my time to work with you on a piece of writing. All you have to do is leave your review and when it posts, email me a screenshot of it. As long it’s postmarked any time between Nov. 2017 and the end of Dec. 2017, the offer stands. Reviews are the new currency and your help will go a long way toward building the community this podcast sets out to make, to empower others to pick up the pen or the camera or the microphone and do work that scratches that creative itch. Okay…now what? The first half of this interview had to be completely cut out. Why? There were some nasty internet gremlins wreaking all kinds of havoc with our connection. It sounded like an old, old Apple computer chugging in the background with some heavy thumps thrown in, maybe an aquarium’s aerator. I mean, it was weird, but more than that it was extremely distracting, so instead of putting you through that, fair listener, I’m going to sum up that first part of the interview in a few hundred words, then we’ll get to the second half that I recorded through a different connection and that sounds just fine.
Fri, November 17, 2017
Episode 76—Erica Berry on Binge Writing, Writing as Learning, and Werewolves
“Joan Didion said ‘Writers are always selling people out’ and I have chafed against that because I don’t feel like I want to be," says Episode 76 guest Erica Berry. In a week where Creative Nonfiction reached its Kickstarter goal to support its monthly offshoot True Story, what better than to have the latest True Story author on the show? I’m your host Brendan O’Meara, and this is the Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak with leaders in narrative journalism, essay, memoir, radio, and documentary film and try to extract the stories, habits, and routines, so that you can apply their tools of mastery to your own work. For Episode 76, I welcome Erica Berry. She’s an essayist, journalist, and eavesdropper. She’s a liberal arts fellow and MFA candidate in creative nonfiction at the University of Minnesota. She spent nine months at the Anna Tasca Lanza Cooking School in rural Sicily co-producing a documentary about endangered culinary traditions. Now she’s working on a book of essays about fear and that’s what brought her here today. Not fear of the podcast. This is a safe place after all, but the fear she courted in Beasts Among Us, her True Story story, about the myth of the werewolf. It’s a chilling tale that feeds off of local lore and Erica’s own visit to the town where people swear they saw the man-wolf. And to start off the podcast, I have a treat, but first a little housekeeping. I’m still offering a free hour of editing/coaching for a piece of you writing. All you have to do is leave an honest review—notice I didn’t even say a nice review—of the podcast on iTunes, take a screenshot that also shows the date of your review, and email that to me. Anything postmarked from November 2017 to the end of 2017 is eligible. It’s my way of saying thank you. One friendly Canadian has already redeemed the gift and I hope dozens, if not more, of you will as well. So Erica was gracious enough to read from the first section of her story Beasts Among Us, so we’re going to ease into that. As a warning, the hairs on your arms might just stand up.
Fri, November 10, 2017
Episode 75—Chris Arvidson on "The Love of Baseball," Deadlines, Pacing, and Curiosity
Chris Arvidson says, "There’s so much great real stuff happening that it seemed dumb to make up anything." What’s going on, CNFers? Before we get started I want to tease something. I have something I’d like to offer you loyal listeners and the thing is I could say it now, but I think I’m going to hold off until the very end of the show. Is that mean? That’s kinda mean isn’t it? Sorry about that…no I’m not… This week I welcome Chris Arvidson for Episode 75 of The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak with the world’s best artists about creating works of nonfiction, leaders in narrative journalism, radio, essay, memoir, and documentary film and try to tease out their stories, habits and routines so you can improve your own creative practice. Chris co-edited along with Diana Nelson Jones The Love of Baseball: Essays by Lifelong Fans published by McFarland. It’s a beautiful book and we talk about its genesis, what makes for good baseball writing vs. horrible baseball writing, what’s the most important thing for Chris when developing a story, the organic nature of building a network, favorite books on writing, and much more. Chris also edited the anthologies Reflections on the New River and Mountain Memoirs. You can find more about her and her work at chrisarvidson.com. You feel good? You read to go? Let’s get to episode 75 with Chris Arvidson. Dig the show? Leave a nice review on iTunes. Thanks, CNFers!
Fri, November 03, 2017
Episode 74—Madeleine Blais says Reality is Compelling Enough
Welcome back to another episode of The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak with the world’s best artists about creating works of nonfiction to try and tease out the origins, habits, and routines so that you can apply their skills of mastery to your own work: narrative journalists, New York Times bestselling authors, award-winning filmmakers and, yes, even a Pulitzer Prize winner. Today’s guest is an extra special one: Madeleine Blais, winner of the Pulitzer Prize for feature writing while at the Miami Herald for her story Zepp’s Last Stand. I took her memoir class back in 2003 at UMass Amherst and we always managed to stay in touch over the years. She’s a friend and a treasured mentor to me, so I’m delighted to speak with her about her career and her latest book To the New Owners: A Martha’s Vineyard Memoir. Maddy is also the author of Uphill Walkers: Portrait of a Family, In These Girls Hope is a Muscle, which was named one of Sports Illustrated’s 100 best sports books of the 20th century, The Heart is an Instrument: Portraits in Journalism. And her piece that would eventually become the book for In These Girls, is the lead piece in “The Stories We Tell,” an anthology showcasing the best women journalists. We talk about her early career and a pivotal moment that pointed her toward feature writing vs. hard news, how she likes to cut against the grain when vetting stories, judging for the Pulitzer Prize, and many of the influential books that helped form her self-guided apprenticeship. Why wait any longer? Here’s the brilliant Madeleine Blais. Like the show? Please leave a nice review on iTunes! Thanks for listening.
Fri, October 27, 2017
Episode 73—Patsy Sims on Book Research as Mini-education, Not Giving Up, and "The Stories We Tell"
Patsy Sims says, "The novel I always wanted to write didn't have to be fiction." No it didn't. Hey, CNFers, it's The Creative Nonfiction Podcast the show where I speak with the world's best artists about creating works of nonfiction. I try and tease out the origins and tactics from leaders in narrative journalism (like Susan Orlean), personal essay (like Elizabeth Rush), memoir (like Andre Dubus III), radio (like Joe Donahue), and documentary film (like Penny Lane), so you can apply their tools of mastery to your own work. Pasty Sims is the author of The Klan, Can I get an Amen!: Inside the Tents and Tabernacles of American Rivivalists, and, most recently, she's the editor of The Stories We Tell: True Tales by America's Greatest Women Journalists (The Sager Group, 2017). Patsy has been such a champion of creative nonfiction that it's easy to forget that she was one of the pioneers in the 60s and 70s. She was the Dumbledorian headmaster of Goucher College's Creative Nonfiction MFA program and few people—myself included—ever asked her about her origins and her writing. But that's sort of the myopic nature of MFA students. Again, myself included. This is my way of atoning. That's neither here nor there. In this episode we talk about: Book projects as mini-educations. Paying attention to people who aren't paid attention to Building relationships Persistence Her fascinating approach to digesting notes and a lot, lot more As you know, it's about this time I kindly ask for reviews as they are the currency that validates this enterprise. It takes less than 60 seconds and it helps out a ton. There are 19 ratings and reviews and none of them are from family members. Scouts honor. Also, I have a pretty slick monthly newsletter where I share my monthly reading recommendations and what you might have missed from the world of the podcast. I'd love for you to join this growing list. Once a month. No spam. Can't beat it. Dig the show? Share it with a fellow CNF-buddy.
Fri, October 20, 2017
Episode 72—Creative Nonfiction's Hattie Fletcher Kickstarts Year 2 of 'True Story'
Hattie Fletcher says, "[True Story] is a snack in between the main meal." The main meal being the quarterly magazine "Creative Nonfiction." You could say we have something in common. It’s the Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak with the world’s best artists about creating works of nonfiction, leaders in the world of narrative journalism, documentary film, essay, memoir and radio and try to deconstruct how these masters go about the work so that you can improve your own. This week I welcome back Hattie Fletcher, who is the managing editor for Creative Nonfiction magazine. What prompted a second trip? Hattie, along with Lee Gutkind and the team over at Creative Nonfiction, started a $27,000 Kickstarter campaign to support the second year of True Story, their monthly offshoot to the quarterly magazine. True Story is a 5-10,000-word stand-alone piece in chapbook or digital form. It’s pretty rad. In this episode we talk about what makes the green-lit pieces pop and what the rejected pieces have in common, and also some of the goodies you can expect with a pledge. I hope after listening to this you’ll head over to the Kickstarter campaign and pledge some hard-earned dough so they can keep doing the work they’re doing on True Story. Full disclosure, I don’t get any kickbacks of any kind. What a guy. Though, it would be nice if you shared the episode and even left a nice review over on iTunes to help validate the podcast so I can keep doing this thing. I’d hate for the business office to come down and slam the door shut on this enterprise. Keep the reviews coming so I can keep the doors open at CNFHQ. Links and show notes are available at brendanomeara.com.
Fri, October 13, 2017
Episode 71—Working Backward with Elizabeth Rush
Elizabeth Rush told me, “I’m just a mule. I just show up every day and climb very, very slowly up that mountain.” What’s up, CNFers?! Hope you’re having a CNFin’ good week. It’s the Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak with the world’s best artists about creating works of nonfiction: leaders from narrative journalism, memoir, essay, radio, and documentary film and try to tease out their stories, habits, and routines so that you can apply their tools of mastery in your own work. This week I welcome Elizabeth Rush to the CNFHQ. Elizabeth’s latest essay “Something Like Vertigo” appeared in Issue 64 of Creative Nonfiction and I wanted to talk to her about it. In this episode you’ll hear about: Her working in pie shops The importance of planning and deconstructing the end goal by working backward Pitching Poetry Her “aha!” moment And how telling true stories got her out of her own head And of course before we get to that I want to say thanks. Thanks for listening. Thanks for leaving reviews. Sometimes when I listen to other podcasts I get the impression that the hosts feel like it’s we the listener who is lucky to hear them. I want to flip that around and say what a privilege it is to make this podcast for you. It’s my great pleasure to bring this to you every week. But for now, if you get any value from this, anything at all, please share it with a friend and leave a nice review on iTunes. They keep adding up and they mean greater visibility and greater reach. Let’s keep building them up and get to triple digits. It starts with you and it takes under a minute to leave a short one, a little longer if you put some elbow grease into it. Entirely up to you, friends. Want show notes? Visit brendanomeara.com.
Fri, October 06, 2017
Episode 70—Erica Westly on Softball and Structure
Erica Westly, this week's guest, says, “I try to picture myself telling the story to someone at the bus stop." It's the Creative Nonfiction Podcast where I speak to the world’s best artists about creating works of nonfiction. Leaders in the world of narrative journalism, memoir, essay, radio, and documentary film share their tools and tricks with you so you can improve your own work. Today I’m happy to introduce you to Erica Westly, @westlyer on Twitter, a freelance journalist based out of Chicago. She’s also the author of Fastpitch: The Untold History of Softball and the Women Who Made the Game. It is published by Touchstone. We talk a lot about Erica’s career moves and pivots, how she worked through the titanic research effort she did on the book, and also how the book was kind of her last-ditch try at writing true stories. But before we get to that I want to thank the 19 folks who have left five-star ratings and reviews of the podcast. That’s incredibly generous and kind. Just last night, in a span of five minutes, I left reviews for Tim Ferriss, Chase Jarvis, Brian Koppelman, three of my favorite interviewers, on iTunes. They don’t need my help, but if I’m going to ask y’all for reviews, I better be leaving reviews too. Let’s keep adding to the total because the more we get, the more visible the podcast will be, and the more people we can reach so that we’re empowering a community of people eager to do this type of creative work, to tell true stories that connect us. Erica grew up in North Carolina, studied dance, but pivoted to sciences, and ultimate journalism, something that finally clicked for her. We pick up the conversation where she feels most engaged in the creative process.
Fri, September 29, 2017
Episode 69—Matthew Mercier: From Edgar Allan Poe's Basement to The Moth Stage
“You have to live a life in order to tell stories," says Matthew Mercier on this week's episode of The Creative Nonfiction Podcast. Hello, CNFers, I’m Brendan O’Meara and this is The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak to the world’s best artists about creating works of nonfiction, leaders in the worlds of narrative journalism, memoir, essay, radio, and documentary film to tease out tactics and routines to inspire you and your work. I love it, baby, today we’ve got Matthew Mercier for Episode 69, who wrote a great essay in Creative Nonfiction about HIP, high-intensity practice, and we dig into that. We also talk a great deal about the power of spoken word performances as he has performed stories for The Moth. There’s a lot of great stuff we unpack, so I hope you’ll hang out with us. The reviews and ratings keep coming in and I just want to extend a heart-felt thank you. Please keep them coming. I’ve been leaving more and more on podcasts I love, even ones that quote-unquote don’t need the reviews because you can’t ask for them if you’re not willing to dole them out. What kind of monster do you think I am? Please share this episode with a friend, leave a review if you have 60 seconds, and head on over to brendanomeara.com for a toe-tappin’ good time. There’s a monthly newsletter there worth your time, I promise. Promotional support for The Creative Nonfiction Podcast is provided by Hippocampus Magazine. Now in its fifth year, Hippocampus publishes creative nonfiction essays and just completed its third annual conference, Hippocamp in lovely Lancaster, PA. Be sure to check out the website, hippocampusmagazine.com, for submission guidelines, but also to read the wonderful work being done. Hippocampus Magazine, memorable creative nonfiction. Feel good? Let’s do the show!
Fri, September 22, 2017
Episode 68—Peter Brown Hoffmeister on Failure as Fuel, Staying Hungry, and Wolf Naps
"After you're in it for a while and you actually become better, you realize how bad you are," says Peter Brown Hoffmeister. It's The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak with the world’s best artists about creating works of nonfiction, leaders in the worlds of narrative journalism, memoir, essay, radio, and documentary film, where I tease out their stories and habits in the hopes that you can apply some of their tools and tricks to your own work. Episode 68 is with author Peter Brown Hoffmeister, be sure to give him a follow on all the socials: @pbhoffmeister on Twitter and at Peter Brown Hoffmeister on Facebook. He’s the author of the memoir The End of Boys, and his latest novel, Too Shattered for Mending, published by Random House, just published. In this episode we talk about the power of failure, being able to compartmentalize various tasks to get the work done, the regenerative nature of getting outdoors, the toxicity of competing with other artists, and some key tricks that Pete uses to sharpen his writing. Things are hoppin’ over here at CNF HQ, so I ask that you please leave a nice review over on iTunes and share this episode with a buddy, someone you think can benefit from it. We’re all a relay team. Pass the baton. Show notes at the website, brendanomeara.com, as well as an easy sign up sheet for my monthly newsletter that gives you my monthly book recommendations as well as what you may have missed in the world of The Creative Nonfiction Podcast. Once a month. No spam. Can’t beat it.
Fri, September 15, 2017
Episode 67—Carol Marine on Daily Painting, Flow States and Overcoming Burnout
This episode of The Creative Nonfiction Podcast is supported by Hippocampus Magazine, whose founder Donna Talarico, just completed her third annual conference HippoCamp. Visit the website hippocampusmagazine.com to read the great work being done and to submit your own work. Hippocampus Magazine: memorable creative nonfiction. It’s the Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak with the world’s best artists about creative works of nonfiction: leaders in the world of narrative journalism, memoir, documentary film, essay, and radio, and tease out their stories and habits so that you can provide their skills to your own work. Thanks for listening, CNFers. This week’s guest is Carol Marine, an Oregon-based expressionistic painter, whom I met at a killer hard cider event on Friendly St. Some of the best hard cider I’ve ever had While Carol might not identify as a writer, she has written a book that I think you should pay attention to. It’s called Daily Painting: Paint Small and Often to Become a More Creative, Productive, and Successful Artist. Maybe you’re a writer looking to get into flow states. Maybe you’re a memoirist and don’t know how to get your work in front of people. Maybe you’re super introverted and have no clue how to be part of a community and network. We hit all of those topic in Carol’s life and how she exited art school super jaded by her teachers, struggled doing big, serious paintings, then dialed it down to appetizer paintings and a movement that built a brand and a career. She’s on Facebook @CarolMarineArt and is carolmarine on Instagram. Be sure to give her a follow. Her daily painting gets posted everywhere, but you should check out Carole’s Painting a Day at carolemarine.blogspot.com. I hope you get a nice hour chock full of inspiration to tackle whatever creative project you have on front and/or back burners. Lastly, if you’ve gotten anything out of this episode or any of the previous 66, I ask that you take a few seconds to leave a nice review over on iTunes. Oh, I forgot to mention! At significant personal cost, I bought more storage, so all the retired episodes are coming out of retirement a la Brett Favre. Yes, the audio sucks, but that’s sorta the point: to show the evolution and maybe the lower the bar of expectations for others looking to do something similar. So, yes, reviews are the currency of the day and add that extra bit of legitimacy to the podcast. That’s it, enjoy episode 67 with Carol Marine!
Fri, September 08, 2017
Episode 66—Brin-Jonathan Butler on the Risk of Chess, Obsession with Obsessives, and the Blessing of Struggle
Brin-Jonathan Butler (@brinicio on Twitter), a freelance writer and author, returns! “Obsession has always fascinated me, whether it’s more a dance with your virtues or your demons,” Butler says. Hey, hey, it’s The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak with the world’s best artists—leaders in narrative journalism, essay, memoir, radio, and documentary film—and tease our their stories, tips, and tricks and how you can apply those tools to your own work. I’m your host @BrendanOMeara, Brendan O’Meara in real life. IMO, this show is at its best when you, the listener, get to hang out and feel like your listening to a couple of CNFers talk shop over coffee or beer or absinthe, though that could take a turn for the weird. That’s what happens when you’ve got someone like Brin-Jonathan Butler back on the podcast. This is his third rodeo at CNF HQ. He sent me a DM on Twitter and said, “We should another show, no?” And I said, “Um…two words, hell yes!” And then he said, “Awesome.” So we got it done. Brin’s got a new book coming out in a year titled “Heavy Lies the Crown” and it’s about chess. We talk about how this book came to pass, how he went about navigating a world that was quite foreign to him, and hammering out a book from start to finish, oh, in about six months. For other insights into writing a book like your ass is on fire, go listen to episode 52 New York Times writer Joe Drape. Brin also talks about how he ensures high profile people have a good interview, the importance of moving around and taking walks, the mental ballet of conning yourself into finishing art. If you can, leave a nice review on iTunes. They help so much, and, simply put, they're validating and let me know that I should keep going with the show. Thanks!
Tue, September 05, 2017
Episode 65—How to Start Your Own Conference with Hippocamp Founder Donna Talarico
Support for this podcast is brought to you by Hippocamp 2017, a conference for creative nonfiction writers. It’s this weekend, as in September 8 through the 10th. So here’s the deal, good ol’ Hippocamp sponsored the Creative Nonfiction Podcast again, but I didn’t run that snazzy new ad because this week’s bonus episode is with Hippocampus Magazine and Hippocamp founder, Donna Talarico, @DonnaTalarico on Twitter, give her a follow. Maybe I should mention that this is the podcast where I speak with the world’s best artists about creating works of nonfiction, leaders from the world of journalism, essay, memoir, radio, and documentary film, and try to tease out their stories and tricks of the trade, so that you can apply those skills to your own work. Donna brings such a great entrepreneurial sensibility to this episode so if you want to organize your independent nonfiction career, or start a magazine, or start a CONFERENCE, this is your episode, your time to let your freak flag fly. I’m on my second cup of cold brew and I’m pretty fired up, so I’m just going to come out and ask that you kindly leave a review on iTunes, like this nice five-star gainer from HannahinLA, “Great interviews that provide useful nuggets and inspiration for writers and other creatives.” If you leave one, maybe you, too, will get a similar shout out. The biggest endorsement the show can get is these reviews, but also sharing it amongst your friends who like to dabble in this kind of work. Let’s do the show!
Fri, September 01, 2017
Episode 64—Matt Tullis on "Running with Ghosts," Aging Out of Jealousy, and Bringing a Reporter's Mind to Memoir
"To be a great writer, you just have LOVE writing," says Matt Tullis, author of the new memoir "Running with Ghosts. "You have to be passionate about it, so you're going to do it a lot." It’s The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak with the world’s best artists—journalists, documentary filmmakers, essayists, memoirists, and radio producers—about creating works of nonfiction, I’m your host, Brendan O’Meara. Thanks for listening. Have we got a good one for you today. Episode 64 with journalist Matt Tullis (@matttullis) on Twitter. His first book, “Running With Ghosts: A Memoir of Surviving Childhood Cancer” published by The Sager Group, tells the story of how Matt got slammed with a form of leukemia at age fifteen, and subsequently what he did what that survival as many of his friends, who had previously been in remission, started passing away as the cancer came back. A couple of Matt’s caretakers, people who spent hours, and weeks, and months ensuring his survival, also died of cancer leaving Matt to wonder why he was spared. There were several times in this book that burned your host’s eyes, not gonna lie, but Matt honors his life and his friends by turning his reporter’s eye inward, and outward, telling the story of his life and his friends. Matt is a professor at Fairfield Univeristy and host of Gangrey the Podcast. His work has appeared in SB Nation Longform among many other places. You’re gonna dig this episode as we talk about what it takes to be a great writer, letting events unfold in the face of preconceived expectations, competition, jealousy, and self promotion. It’s the first of the month. Did you know that I have a monthly newsletter that I send out at the beginning of the month sharing my reading list as well as what you may have missed the Creative Nonfiction Podcast realm? Well, I do. Head over to brendanomeara.com.
Fri, August 25, 2017
Episode 63—Bronwynn Dean Talks Marijuana, Gonzo Journalism, and the Power of Performance
"You have to see the value in the end product enough to make yourself suffer," says Bronwynn Dean. This episode is brought to you by Hippocamp 2017, a conference for creative nonfiction writers. It takes place in lovely Lancaster, PA, and runs from September 8 through September 10. Spots are still available for the third annual conference, so if you want to check out speakers like Tobias Wolfe and Dinty W. Moore, you better sign up! Hippocamp: Create. Share. Live. Bronwynn Dean stopped by the podcast to talk about the power of performance and her work-in-progress about the world of marijuana. It's titled Potted. Her work has appeared in Pitkin Review and Soundings Review. She cites Hunter S. Thompson and Tom Wolfe as major influences, and I think you'll dig how she was able to be the only one of about forty writers at a recent conference to land an agent. What went right? What was wrong about the other 39? Good stuff. Okay, friends, you know the drill: Please leave a nice review over at iTunes and sign up for my monthly newsletter where I give out my book recommendations. It's short, to the point, no spam. Share this with a friend and sit back and enjoy Bronwynn Dean.
Fri, August 18, 2017
Episode 62—Penny Lane is Her Real Name
Documentary filmmaker Penny Lane joins me to talk about her films "Our Nixon," "Nuts!", and "The Voyagers." We explore how she decided to start leveling up her ambition and the craft of making doc films. Please share the episode with a pal and leave a kind review on iTunes. Thanks for listening!
Fri, August 11, 2017
Episode 61—Susan Orlean on Writing for an Audience and the Entrepreneurial Nature of a Writing Career
Hello, CNF-buddies, it’s The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak with the world’s best artists about creating works of nonfiction—journalists, essayists, memoirists, radio producers, and documentary film makers—and how you can use their tools of mastery and apply it to your own work. That’s right, you are in for a treat. Well, let’s face it, you’ve always been in for a treat, but this week you’re in for an Easter basket and Halloween sack all rolled into one verifiably true candy locker. New York Times bestselling author of Rin Tin Tin, The Orchid Thief, (which was made into the movie Adaptation), Saturday Night, My Kind of Place, The Bullfighter Checks Her Makeup, and the children’s book Lazy Little Loafers. She’s a staff writer for The New Yorker (full archive here) and she came by the podcast to share her wisdom and experiences from a career writing deeply reported features. You can find Susan online @susanorlean on Twitter and visit her website susanorlean.com. What are some takeaways? Susan talks about always having an audience in mind, having supreme focus, and needing to see yourself as a business person if you plan on doing this type of work and that it's actually freeing, not stifling, in order to do the kind of work that excites you and feeds your ambitions. Before we get to that, I ask that you please subscribe to the podcast, share it with a friend, and leave a rating or, ideally, a nice review on iTunes, like this one from Meredith May. She said, “Real conversations among professional writers about the essence of craft. A behind the scenes look at the way stories come together, from inception to publication, that doesn’t shy away from the truth about the difficulties and triumphs of making a living from words. One of the hardest concepts for my podcasting students to grasp is how differentiate between a story and a topic—this podcast helps them find that X-factor that makes a story sing.” Wow. Shoutout to that five-star review. If you leave one, I might just read it on the air! It’s time for the show, episode 61 with Susan Orlean!
Fri, August 04, 2017
Episode 60—The Godfather of Creative Nonfiction: Lee Gutkind
"In many ways the biggest challenge to figure out if you're gonna be a writer of nonfiction is to figure out what stories you can tell that no one else has told before," says Lee Gutkind. Hey, hey, it’s The Creative Nonfiction Podcast! This is the show where I interview the world’s best artists about creating works of nonfiction: documentary film, personal essay, memoir, narrative journalism, killer profiles, and reportage and dive into the origin story, what makes them great, and how you can apply their strategies of mastery to your own work. Today’s guest for Episode 60 (!) of The Creative Nonfiction Podcast is none other than the Godfather, Lee Gutkind. His tagline on his website is Writer. Speaker. Innovator. He’s written or edited 49 books like Almost Human, The Best Seat in the House But You Have to Stand: The Game as Umpires See It, Truckin’ With Sam. He also founded the lit journal/now magazine Creative Nonfiction, which is an incredible well of great writing. What are you gonna learn from this episode? Lee tells you that you need to figure out what stories and YOU can tell that no one else has done before. How to find the people who want their stories told, and how to perservere in the face of untold failure. That’s a some good, good stuff. Before we dive into the interview, I ask that you leave a review on iTunes or even just a rating. Reviews are icing on the cake, but the more ratings, the more cred, the more people we can reach. Also, I have an email newsletter that I send out once a month. It’ gives my reading list for the month and what you may have missed from the podcast. Share this with a friend because I know you’re gonna dig it!
Fri, July 28, 2017
Episode 59—Jessica Lahey Reads "I've Taught Monsters"
Hello, friends, fellow CNFers, it’s the Creative Nonfiction Podcast, the show where I speak with the world’s best artists about creating works of nonfiction. Today I welcome back Jessica Lahey of Episode 51 fame, author of the NYT bestseller “The Gift of Failure” and, most recently, the author of the essay “I’ve Taught Monsters,” which appeared in Issue 63 of the literary magazine Creative Nonfiction. For this episode, Jess reads the essay in its entirety and she gives a knockout performance. I noodled around with music for a bit, but I couldn’t find the perfect tracks for it, so I just let it stand: Jess simply reading her wonderful essay. Before we get to her reading I want to ask you something: What are you struggling with? Is there something in your work that’s giving you trouble or are you hitting road blocks? I want to know. Ping me on Twitter or email me. Maybe I can help. Also, be sure to share this with a friend, leave a review on iTunes if you got any value out of this, and let me know if you dig these author readings. Also, it’s Saratoga horse racing season and some of you might not even know that I write words too. My first book, Six Weeks in Saratoga, came out in 2011 courtesy of SUNY Press. It’s a timeless story about the track and the 2009 season. Want to support me and the podcast? Buy a book! It’s in paperback.
Fri, July 21, 2017
Episode 58—Get 1% Better with Joe Ferraro
It's The Creative Nonfiction Podcast where I speak with the world’s best writers, freelancers, interviewers, authors, and documentary filmmakers about WHY and HOW they go about creating works of nonfiction and how YOU can apply what they do to your work. Today’s guest is Joe Ferraro, the fourth Joe I’ve had on the podcast (Joe DePaulo, Joe Drape, Joe Donahue, and now Joe Ferraro). Need a Josephine…anyway… So who’s Joe Ferraro? He’s a teacher and a learner, but above all he’s a leader. He just started a podcast: The 1% Better Podcast. His tagline is Conversations designed to help you get 1% Better. It’s aimed at gradual, continual, rigorous—though not overwhelming—personal improvement. “If we’re talking about hard work, it’s about squeezing out more of the day,” says Joe. “Nothing upsets me more than when someone says ‘I’m too busy.’” Joe talks about his allergy for negative people, finding ways to challenge himself, and how after teaching for 20 years, he feels like his best years are still ahead of him. He’s the type of guy that inspires you to take action. Be sure to follow Joe on Twitter @FerraroOnAir, reach out to him, and subscribe to his podcast right away. Whether it’s listening to world class leader Ryan Hawk or how to make the best cold brew coffee, the art of thinking and redefining a restaurant, The 1% Better Podcast will open your eyes to where you can add value to you life and those around you. And you want to know something else? He’s got a voice made for broadcasting, so sit back and enjoy Episode 58 with Joe Ferraro.
Fri, July 14, 2017
Episode 57—Joe Donahue on the Art of the Interview
Joe Donahue hosts The Book Show and The Roundtable for WAMC Northeast Public Radio out of Albany, New York. He's the best interviewer you've likely never heard of, and it was a distinct pleasure to speak with him again. "My job really is to present a person and get to the bottom of them, if you will," he says, "and ask questions that hopefully people want answered." He learned from Larry King, Fred Rogers, and honed his craft over a lifetime of radio. Seriously. A lifetime. He wanted to be a broadcaster since the age of four. Please leave a review wherever you get your podcasts and share this with a friend. Thanks for listening!
Fri, July 07, 2017
Episode 56—Sonja Livingston Serves Up 'Ghostbread'
Sonja Livingston stopped by The Creative Nonfiction Podcast to talk about her award-winning memoir “Ghostbread.” She was also gracious enough to read from three short chapters. It’s about family and growing up in poverty. “[My family] hasn’t tried to kill me, but they haven’t thrown me a party either,” Sonja says. This episode is layered and a bit experimental. I hope it adds a little extra somethin’-somethin’ to the usual interview. If you dig it, let me know on Twitter @BrendanOMeara and I’ll invite others to try something similar. Sonja talks a lot about her routine and how getting outside helps her write. Also she adds that writing personal essay can feel like a miracle, but can also be very painful. Maybe it’s that in order to write great art, there must be a little bit of blood on the page. I’d love for you to leave a review of the podcast and to share with folks you think will enjoy it. That’s all I can ask for. Thanks for listening!
Fri, June 30, 2017
Episode 55—Do Funny Things Always Happen to Nikki Schulak?
"What writer at my age gets to have parents be dead? I don't have to worry about what they think!" says Nikki Schulak. I suggest visiting Nikki's website and then perusing her extensive archive of essays. In this episode we talk about how stories come to her, how she stays attuned to the world, naked bike rides, and the power of performing for an audience and the validation that ushers. This is the last episode before my 37th birthday. Wanna give something to me? Leave a review on iTunes. You don’t even have to wrap it. The best part? It’s free and takes less than a minute. Can’t beat that right? Thanks for listening!
Fri, June 23, 2017
Episode 54—Andre Dubus III on his Accidental Memoir, the Love of Revision, and Getting the F*ck Off Social Media
Andre Dubus III, author the memoir Townie and the novels House of Sand and Fog and Dirty Love, stopped by the podcast to talk about memoir, the essay, and writing in general. "The truth is, if you want to write or create anything worth a damn, you better embrace failure or you're not going to get to the good stuff. You gotta learn to love how hard it is," he says. This episode is so packed with great, actionable, and inspiring material from a "made" writer, meaning he built himself into the writer he wanted to be. If you think you don't have time to write, just wait until you hear him talk about how he found the time to write his breakout novel House of Sand and Fog. Talk about rigor. Please review the podcast and pass it along to a friend! Thanks for listening!
Fri, June 16, 2017
Episode 53—Jessica Abel and the Power of Creative Focus
Jessica Abel is a cartoonist, a teacher, a writer, and a podcaster and her latest book, Growing Gills: How to Find Creative Focus When You're Drowning in Your Daily Life, is her latest project. I came across her kick-ass, 200-page, black-and-white graphic book Out on the Wire: The Storytelling Secrets of the New Masters of Radio and reached out to her. So in this episode we talk a lot about what makes for great radio/podcasting, how to obtain creative focus, the power of reviewing your projects and processes, and much, much more. If you dig the show, share it with a friend and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you found this. The five-star ratings keep coming in and I'd love to have more that way I can reach more people just like you, people who dig what the best artists are doing in the genre of creative nonfiction. Thanks for listening!
Fri, June 09, 2017
Episode 52—How to Write an 80,000-Word Book in 42 Days with Joe Drape
I'm not sure where to begin if I'm being perfectly honest. Joe Drape (@joedrape on Twitter) is a New York Times sports writer and the New York Times bestselling author of Our Boys and American Pharoah: The Untold Story of the Triple Crown Winner's Legendary Rise. He wrote the 80,000-word manuscript in six weeks without a book leave. How are you feeling about your productivity? "When you say, 'Ok, I've got six weeks to write 80,000 words,' it freaks you out," says Joe. "Sometimes 1,500 words goes to 3,000 or 6,000. Sometimes 1,500 becomes 300, and you shut your computer and go to a movie." I love it, baby. Joe is the author of these six books: American Pharoah Black Maestro Our Boys The Race for the Triple Crown In the Hornets Nest To the Swift In this episode he talks about how to write a book under tight deadline pressure, the power of reporting, and the power of listening. And thank you for listening! And if you have a moment, please leave a review on iTunes. Nine (and counting) five-star reviews! Thanks so much!
Fri, June 02, 2017
Episode 51—Jessica Lahey on Hidden Monsters, the Gift of Failure, and Keeping Your Butt in the Chair
Jessica Lahey, author of the essay "I've Taught Monsters" and the NYT best seller "The Gift of Failure," came by the show to talk about teaching and getting the work done. "The work of being a writer means you get words on the page. It's as simple as that. I means you read, you write, and get words on the page." We talk about her approach to teaching and language, and also how Stephen King's "On Writing" influenced her style. We also talk about what it means to work hard as a writer. Dig the show? Give the podcast a nice review. You won't be alone. Several people have done it, so join them! Thanks for listening!
Fri, May 26, 2017
Episode 50—Ted Conover's Deep Dive into Immersion
For the 50th episode of The Creative Nonfiction Podcast, we had to go big and that's what we did. Ted Conover, author of so many books (Rolling Nowhere, Coyotes, Newjack) including his latest "Immersion: A Writer's Guide to Going Deep," joined me to talk about why he wrote the book and how he has employed those tactics for the past 40 years. "The research you do is determinative, right?" Conover says. "It defines what you're going to be able to write in many ways." Thanks for listening. Please share, subscribe, and leave a review on iTunes.
Fri, May 19, 2017
Episode 49—Dinty W. Moore on the Gift of Feedback, Reading Like a Mechanic, and Patience
DInty W. Moore is the founder of Brevity Magazine and the author of The Story Cure.
Fri, May 05, 2017
Episode 48—Roy Peter Clark Redux
This week on The Creative Nonfiction Podcast decided to revisit my episode with Roy Peter Clark (@RoyPeterClark on Twitter), this time condensing that two-hour interview and pulling out the best moments. In it we hear Roy talk about how he learned to swim in the language, the moment he learned the true meaning of literacy, and when research can become crippling. I'm experimenting with the form and making it more like a mini one-source profile. Let me know what you think. I think it makes for a better overall listen. Ping me on Twitter @BrendanOMeara with thoughts, or to say hi. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast on the Apple podcast app and on Google Play Music. Leave a rating if you're feeling extra kind. Those help. Thanks for listening!
Fri, April 28, 2017
Episode 47—Shawna Kenney on 'Zines, Advice, and Finding Your Tribe
Shawna Kenney, author, writer, teacher, coach, editor, joins me on The Creative Nonfiction Podcast to talk about her origin story as a teenage fanzine founder, punk rock, and her delightful short essay “Never Call Yourself a Writer, and Other Rules for Writing,” a brilliant piece of satire. She grew up in a conservative family in small-town Maryland, so the nearby punk scene in Washington D.C. held tremendous appeal. “I always wanted to be Hunter S. Thompson without the drugs,” Shawna tells me. Her work has such an edge that I was surprised that she didn’t have that edge in conversation. “I’m much better on the page than I am verbally,” she says, which isn’t true at all. She’s great on the page, and she’s a great conversationalist. Her work has appeared in Creative Nonfiction, the New York Times, Vice, and Playboy, just to name a few. Be sure to follow Shawna on Twitter @ShawnaJKenney and go to her website to read more about her and her work. Thanks for listening!
Fri, April 21, 2017
Episode 46—Editor Hattie Fletcher on Seeing Rhythms and the Power of Reading Slush
Creative Nonfiction's managing editor Hattie Fletcher sat down to talk about the art of editing.
Fri, April 14, 2017
Episode 45—Bronwen Dickey Returns to Talk about the Paperback Release of Pit Bull, Troll Culture, and How Perfectionism Kills
My good friend (can I say that? I think so) Bronwen Dickey returns to talk about the paperback release of "Pit Bull: Battle Over an American Icon," Troll Culture, and how Perfectionism Kills You.
Sat, April 08, 2017
Episode 44—Philip Gerard and the 'Thrill' of Creative Research
Experimental podcast! A micro essay about a book I've read. Ping me on Twitter or email me if you dig it!
Fri, March 31, 2017
Episode 43—Mary Heather Noble on Emotional Charges, Emotional Distance, and Not Discarding Work
Environmental writer Mary Heather Noble talks about her award-winning essay "Eulogy for an Owl."
Fri, March 24, 2017
Episode 42—Roy Peter Clark, America's Writing Coach on Living a Life of Language, Lowering Standards, and the Meaning of Literacy
Roy Peter Clark, author of Writing Tools and The Art of X-Ray Reading, joined me on #CNF.
Fri, March 17, 2017
Episode 41—Jennifer Niesslein, the Full Grown Person behind Full Grown People
Jennifer Niesslein, formerly a co-editor and co-founder of Brain, Child, and currently editor and founder of Full Grown People, joined me on Episode 41 to talk about the art of editing.
Fri, March 10, 2017
Episode 40—How to Be Like Mike (Copperman)
Michael Copperman, author of Teacher: Two Years in the Mississippi Delta (University Press of Mississippi), talks about his memoir and trusting the process.
Fri, March 03, 2017
Episode 39—The Gentleman's Guide to Arousal-Free Slow Dancing
I read my essay "The Gentleman's Guide to Arousal-Free Slow Dancing," which was published in Creative Nonfiction's "Joy" issue.
Fri, February 24, 2017
Episode 38—Philip Gerard Helps You Get Out of Your Head
Philip Gerard, author of "The Art of Creative Research" stopped by #CNF HQ to talk about the serious research behind all great works of writing.
Fri, February 17, 2017
Episode 37—Author Angela Palm is a Cartographer? Well, sort of
Angela Palm, author of "Riverine" (Graywolf Press) and the essay "Hierarchy of Needs" talks about the perils of the submission game, the power of leveling up, and to be on the lookout for organizing principles.
Fri, February 10, 2017
Episode 36—The Joyful Kim Kankiewicz Writes with Her Ears
Kim Kankiewicz won Creative Nonfiction's essay prize for Issue No. 32, an issue themed "Joy". Lots of cool insights from a brilliant voice in personal essay.
Fri, February 03, 2017
Episode 35—Sybil Baker on Discovery and the Art of Being Different
Sybil Baker talks about her book Immigration Essays, published by C&R Press.
Fri, January 27, 2017
Episode 34—Tom McAllister Talks Podcasting, Plowing Through First Drafts, and the Writer's Need for Urgency
I say in the intro this is Episode 35. It's 34. With Tom McAllister, author of the memoir "Bury Me in My Jersey" and the novel "The Young Widower's Handbook."
Fri, January 20, 2017
Episode 33—Melissa Chadburn Shares All Her Secrets!
Author Melissa Chadburn talks writing and her incredible piece of work "The Readiness Assessment."
Fri, January 13, 2017
Episode 32—Kevin Wilson on the Comfort of the Uncomfortable, the Power of No Backup Plan, and the Five Minutes That Changed His Life Forever
Kevin Wilson, president of Kevin Wilson Baseball, LLC and a former professional baseball player, tells us what #Goodbatting is all about.
Fri, December 02, 2016
Episode 31—Jen Miller on Freelancing, Tenacity, Running, and Swinging Her "Where's My Money Bat" (It's a Thing)
Jen Miller is a freelance writer and wouldn't have it any other way. She talks about that and her most recent book "Running: A Love Story."
Fri, November 25, 2016
Episode 30—I read my Pushcart Prize-Nominated Essay "That Pickoff Play"
Chautauqua Americana published my essay, "That Pickoff Play", earlier this year. The editors nominated it for a Pushcart Prize. I read that essay for this milestone episode of #CNF.
Fri, November 18, 2016
Episode 29—Pete Croatto, 10 Years a Freelancer (and counting)
Pete Croatto celebrates 10 years of freelancing by sharing what he's learned over that time.
Wed, October 26, 2016
Episode 28—Sarah Shotland Takes Us to Prison
Sarah Shotland, essayist and novelist, won Proximity Magazine's personal essay contest for her "On Visiting Prison Again" essay. We talk about that and much, much more.
Thu, October 06, 2016
Episode 27—Author Paul Lisicky on Writing in Unlikely Times, Simultaneous Projects, and Preserving Play
Paul Lisicky stops by the podcast to talk about his memoir "The Narrow Door."
Wed, September 21, 2016
Episode 26—Kevin Robbins Talks Harvey Penick and the Sacrifices of Writing a Book
Meet Kevin Robbins, author of "Harvey Penick: The Life and Wisdom from the Man Who Wrote the Book on Golf."
Thu, August 04, 2016
Episode 25—Elane Johnson on her Winning Essay, Accepting Your Work as Good, and Writers Block
Elane Johnson won "Creative Nonfiction's" marriage essay contest. The title of the essay is "The Math of Marriage." It's distinctive and hilarious. Elane also teaches online courses in creative nonfiction. "Teaching for me is writing," she says. Go on with your bad selves and listen to Episode 25 of the #CNF Podcast!
Fri, July 22, 2016
Episode 24—Brin-Jonathan Butler Takes Us to Cuba
Brin-Jonathan Butler's memoir "The Domino Diaries" is now out in paperback (go buy it). It's about his time in Cuba boxing with world champions, chasing Hemingway's ghost, and spending 10 years of his life in Castro's Cuba. Sound good? That's because it is. Enjoy!
Mon, July 11, 2016
Episode 23—Tom Stanton on Key Moments, the Use of Timelines, and Starting His Own Newspaper
Author Tom Stanton talks about his latest book "Terror in the City of Champions."
Thu, June 23, 2016
Episode 22—Jeff Krulik on "Heavy Metal Parking Lot," "Led Zeppelin Played Here," and His Kinship with Oddities
Jeff Krulik is a documentary film maker—the first on #CNF!—and he stops by the show to talk about his approach to work, the history behind "Heavy Metal Parking Lot," and being a freelancer for 20 years.
Fri, May 06, 2016
Episode 21—Bronwen Dickey on the Tao of Henry Rollins, Binaural Beats, and Her Three Rules for Any Writer
Author and journalist Bronwen Dickey stops by the podcast to talk about her new book "Pit Bull: The Battle Over an American Icon."
Mon, March 07, 2016
Episode 20—Glenn Stout Returns!
Glenn Stout, author of the newly released "The Selling of the Babe: The Deal That Changed Baseball and Created a Legend," returns to the podcast to talk about the book, writing, and the transcendent nature of hitting a home run.
Thu, March 03, 2016
Episode 19—We Go Back in Time with Brian Mockenhaupt!
This episode was originally a three-parter from back in the day. It features Brian Mockenhaupt, author of the critically acclaimed By-Liner Original "The Living in the Dead." Enjoy the hell out of this throwback all mushed together into one episode.
Thu, February 25, 2016
Episode 18—Mary Pilon
Mary Pilon is the New York Times best-selling author of "The Monopolists" and a freelance "story person".
Wed, January 27, 2016
Episode 17—Brin-Jonathan Butler
Brin-Jonathan Butler, a freelancer writer whose much-acclaimed work has appeared in SB Nation Longform, Esquire, ESPN the Magazine, and Harpers, stops by the podcast to talk about his approach to his beautiful writing.
Mon, January 11, 2016
Episode No. 16: Charles Bethea on Late-Night Pitching, the Anxiety of Reporting, and the Magnitude of Breakfast
Charles Bethea is an Atlanta-based writer-at-large whose work has appeared in Outside Magazine, Grantland, and The New Yorker. He has even hiked the Appalachian Trail. That should give you an idea of the intense focus this guy has. Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, subscribe to brendanomeara.com, and share this with a friend! Thanks for listening!
Mon, December 28, 2015
Episode No. 15: Eva Holland on the Nature of her Hustle, Being Super Analog, and liking Faramir
Eva Holland is a freelance journalist who writes gripping narratives about the outdoors. Her piece "Unclimbable", written for SB Nation Longform, is getting a lot of attention and so too is she. Eva offers terrific insights into the life of a freelancer and how she got her start in this crazy biz.
Sun, December 06, 2015
Episode No. 14—Glenn Stout on Combining the Things You Love, Effort, and the Poem That 'Knocked Him on his Ass'
My guest is Glenn Stout, series editor for the Best American Sports Writing anthology, longform editor at SB Nation, and author of several books including Young Woman and the Sea and Fenway 1912: The Birth of a Ballpark, A Championship Season and Fenway’s Remarkable First year. He talks about reading poetry in a baseball uniform outside Fenway Park while taking swigs from a two-liter bottle of bloody Marys. Yeah…it’s good. He also talks about his first writing assignment and also the ONE thing a writer can control. Hear about all that… and more …. on the next episode of #CNF.
Sat, October 31, 2015
Episode 13—Greg Hanlon on the Audacity of Voice and the Value of Struggle
Greg Hanlon is a crime editor at People Magazine and also a freelance sports writer. His piece "Sins of the Preacher" was anthologized in the Best American Sports Writing 2015 edition. His "The Many Crimes of Mel Hall" was a notable selection. That's called a hell of a run! In this conversation we hit up a lot nuts and bolts and also what Greg looks for in a story before he goes all in.
Thu, September 10, 2015
Episode 12—Sarah Einstein on writing an other-person-centric memoir, Jane Eyre, and Count Chocula
Sarah Einstein joins me to talk about her wonderful new book "Mot: a Memoir." Be sure to subscribe to the podcast and leave a nice five-star review on iTunes!
Fri, June 19, 2015
Episode 11—Carrie Hagen on Finding the Essence of Story
Carrie Hagen is the author of "We is Got Him," a gripping narrative of the first ransom kidnapping in the United States. This book, her first, reads like a seasoned pro, like a writer in total command. I hope you enjoy this conversation and if the audio is a bit off, I apologize. It's always a challenge with my primitive equipment to make it sound like your other favorite podcasts. Bear with me, brighter skies are ahead. That said, Carrie's insights into her book a fascinating and helpful to anyone embarking on this kind of writing. Enjoy!
Mon, April 20, 2015
Episode 10—Joe DePaulo on Talese, Kramer, and What It Means to be Edited
Joe DePaulo is a freelance features writer whose work has appeared in the New York Times, SB Nation Longform and The Boston Globe Magazine, just to name a few. In this conversation we talk about some of the work that we turn to for inspiration and guidance. We also delve into Joe’s life as a freelancer, how he balances the harsh realities of making a living and doing the work he loves. That’s should whet your appetite enough for the time being. If you have the time, give the podcast a download/subscription, maybe give it a review. If these things add up I may be able to afford better equipment and produce an increasingly better listening product. Give a visit to brendanomeara.com and slam down your email so you stay up to date on the podcast and other musings. It’s a weekly email that goes out on Tuesdays. That’s it. Listen to Joe speak words!
Thu, April 09, 2015
Episode 9—Inside the Reporting Mind of John Scheinman
John Scheinman won the Eclipse Award for feature writing in horse racing for his piece "Memories of a Masters" about the late Dickie Small. There's a bit of horse racing talk here so if you want to know John's sleeper pick for the Kentucky Derby this year stay tuned. About halfway through we really get into the weeds about reporting and some of the anxiety that comes with having to interview people. I think it's helpful to those who may suffer the same kind of performance anxiety I feel when I need to pitch or interview an intimidating figure. Thanks for listening. If you get a chance, sign up for the email updates at www.brendanomeara.com and subscribe to the podcast on iTunes.
Tue, March 31, 2015
Episode 8—Maggie Messitt on Shi#y First Drafts and Making Documentaries on Paper
Maggie Messitt is the author of The Rainy Season: Three Lives in the New South Africa. Messitt is a writer, reporter, author, teacher, student, dog owner, and super kayaker and we delve into her writing process, how she handles her notes, and her Bookshelf for the Apocalypse (a new segment to the Hashtag #CNF podcast). There's so much great stuff here (and more I want to revisit in a Part 2). You'll get plenty of wisdom from Messitt here. I hope you enjoy this re-re-birth of the podcast. I have a new microphone so hopefully this means better quality and more consistency as I speak with more practitioners of narrative nonfiction. For more show notes be sure to visit www.brendanomeara.com and subscribe to the podcast. It all starts with you. Thank you so much! Love, Brendan
Thu, August 28, 2014
Episode 7: Richard Gilbert
Author Richard Gilbert talks about his wonderful memoir "Shepherd." We talk about the process he went through creating the book and how the best artists simply produce more work. Apologies to listeners: The audio is a bit messy in places. My goal is to get better equipment only if people are listening. So, if you listen, bear with me, better times are coming ... maybe ... I'm putting up a donations button on the website. If you think the show is worth $1, give a $1. The more I raise, the better the listening experience will be.
Wed, July 03, 2013
Hashtag #CNF Episode 6—Brian Mockenhaupt
Brian Mockenhaupt, an intrepid and elite reporter of the living, turns his eye to those long gone. And as we near the 150th anniversary of that bloodiest battle at Gettysburg, Mockenhaupt, through his deft skill as an information gatherer, writes a compelling story about friendship, love, and loss in the most famous battle of the Civil War and its putrid wake for those left behind. It culminates with President Lincoln presiding over a newly created memorial to the felled Union soldiers, a speech where he turns the volume down so we may hear the ghosts of Gettysburg.
Fri, June 21, 2013
Hashtag #CNF Episode 5—Sheri Booker
Sheri Booker’s memoir Nine Years Under: Coming of Age in an Inner City Funeral Home chronicles her near-decade long experience immersed the culture of death. Everything from picking up bodies to preserving them in the inner sanctum of Wylie Funeral Home. In it Booker learns that death knows no age and that a funeral home is every bit a part of a community as a church. She also addresses the age-old question of whether or not bodies move on the embalming table.
Sat, June 08, 2013
Hashtag #CNF Episode 4—Harrison Scott Key
In Episode 4, I welcome Harrison Scott Key, winner of Creative Nonfictin's "Southern Sin" essay contest. The essay, titled "The Wishbone", is a hilarious account of Key's father suiting up his too-old son to win a pee-wee football game. In this conversation, we talk about "The Wishbone", where Key found his comedic sensibility, his forays into improv and stand up, and the mechanics of humor writing.
Fri, April 12, 2013
Hashtag #CNF Episode 2—Author/Nonfiction Editor Tom McAllister
Well, what didn't we hit on? It was a pop culture kind of podcast. Let's face it, it had to be since author and Barrelhouse nonfiction editor Tom McAllister joined me to talk about "Bring the Noise: The Best Pop Culture Essays from Barrelhouse Magazine". McAllister is the author of "Bury Me in My Jersey: A Memoir of My Father, Football, and Philly." He is also a professor of creative writing at Temple University and, most recently, is the editor of "Bring the Noise". As McAllister riffs in his hilarious introduction, BTN is a treatise "on the the stupid things we love". Yes, there's the stupid things we love, but BTN shows how beautiful these stupid things are when in the hands of seventeen artful storytellers whose personal stories elevate popular culture to the adult table. In it you'll find professional wrestling, roller derby, Barry Bonds, stalking Aaron Grenier, and the "never-ending reality of The Hills" and, in true Barrelhouse style, the Patrick Swayze question.
Wed, March 20, 2013
Hashtag CNF Episode 1—Author Susan Kushner Resnick
Susan Kushner Resnick is the author of "Goodbye Wifes and Daughters," which won a gold medal for nonfiction from the Independent Publisher’s Book Awards. Her first book, "Sleepless Days: One Woman’s Journey Through Postpartum Depression," was the first PPD memoir by an American author. In her latest book, "You Saved Me Too: What a Holocaust Survivor Taught Me About Living, Dying, Fighting, Loving, and Swearing in Yiddish," Susan writes of the chance encounter she had with Aron Lieb, a survivor of the Nazi concentration camps, and the blossoming love and friendship that came from that meeting.
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