Podcast
True Fiction Project
Hosted by Reenita Hora · EN
The True Fiction Project is an unscripted-to-scripted podcast series that explores the journey of a story from non-fiction to fiction. It showcases the art of audio storytelling to explore how scripted fiction is inspired by our daily life, and it explores how audio storytelling can spark interesting IP that can be further developed for other media. Join our host Reenita Hora, as she conducts audio interviews with guests from all walks of life that have interesting stories. A fiction writer then listens to the interview, defines a main character inspired by it, and creates a piece of short audio fiction based on it. The episode pieces together the interview (non-fiction), the audio story + the print version (both fiction). Learn more at https://reenita.com/podcasts/true-fiction-project/
45episodes
Episodes
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S6 Ep 12 - Dissonance
Aug 5, 202500:19:03Summary readyAre you ready to dive into a thrilling sci-fi world? Want to uncover the chilling secrets of an alien invasion? I’m excited to welcome Aaron Ryan, a passionate author and self-proclaimed Lord of the Rings geek, to today’s episode. Aaron’s vivid storytelling, inspired by cinematic masterpieces like Aliens, brings a unique musicality to his gripping narratives. We’ll explore his Dissonance series, a four-book series that began as a trilogy and expanded with a prequel, set in a post-apocalyptic 2042. Aaron shares insights into his creative process and the thematic depth of human conflict in his work. He reads an excerpt from his novel, Dissonance, where Cameron Shipley recalls the day the world was ravaged by telepathic gorgons during their devastating 2026 invasion. IN THIS EPISODE: (01:51) Explanation of tetralogy versus quadrilogy, with tetralogy being the correct term for four books, distinct from quadrilogy for movies (02:56) Inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien and Aliens, crafts Sci-Fi thriller narratives driven by speculative, scientifically creative concepts (04:22) Discussion on authors crossing genres, explanation of Dissonance as a theme (08:40) Ryan describes incorporating musicality in writing, inspired by the Alien's soundtrack (13:53) Ryan reads an excerpt from Dissonance describing Cameron Shipley recalling the 2026 Alien invasion by Gorgons KEY TAKEAWAYS: Aaron Ryan's Dissonance series, a gripping sci-fi thriller tetralogy, explores a post-apocalyptic world after a 2026 alien invasion by telepathic Gorgons, blending intense action with themes of human dissonance and survival. Inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien and films like Aliens, Ryan crafts a vivid world-building narrative, using weaponized frequencies and a musicality in writing to enhance thrilling scenes, such as those in Dissonance. Dissonance is being adapted into a Screenplay for platforms like Netflix, with its telepathic paralytic Gorgons and weaponized frequencies, highlighting its pulse-pounding storytelling and terrifying alien encounters. Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free/ You will also be eligible for other extras, such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction, and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora FICTION CREDITS: Written and read by Aaron Ryan GUEST RESOURCES: Aaron Ryan Author - Website Dissonance Alien Invasion Saga - Website Aaron Ryan - LinkedIn Author & Speaker Aaron Ryan - Facebook Business Page Author Aaron Ryan - Twitter Author Aaron Ryan (@authoraaronryan) • Instagram photos and videos Author Aaron Ryan - Pinterest HOST RESOURCES Website LinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIO: Aaron Ryan, a Washington-based author, lives with his wife, two sons, a dog, a cat, and finches, and writes the Dissonance series, Forecast, The Superhero Anomaly, and business books. Inspired by a second-grade novella, his diverse experiences as a voiceover artist, musician, and more fuel his unique storytelling. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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S6 Ep 11 - Checkout Time
Jul 22, 202500:21:31Summary readyEver wonder how a medical thriller is born? Or what happens when a real-life experience sparks a pulse-pounding fiction excerpt? Today, I’m joined by Dr. John Bukowski, former veterinarian, epidemiologist, and now full-time novelist. John brings a fascinating journey from medicine to fiction, with a knack for turning scientific curiosity into gripping narratives. In this episode, we discuss how his background shaped his storytelling, how real moments become powerful “what if” plot points, and how an ordinary hotel stay inspired a high-stakes, suspenseful scene. John reads an excerpt from his latest novel, Checkout Time—a page-turner about a mysterious arsonist targeting hotels and the unlikely duo racing to stop him.IN THIS EPISODE:(02:10) Bukowski’s path from veterinarian and epidemiologist to fiction writer(05:06) Summary of Project Suicide, a thriller based on an Alzheimer’s drug turned weapon(06:49) Value of short fiction for building credibility before novel publishing, and how they differ(11:38) How a real hotel stay sparked the plot for the thriller Checkout Time(14:30) Paid subscribers will hear an excerpt from The Wheel of Fortune(15:50) Excerpt from Checkout Time, where an unassuming hotel room trap door erupts into an explosion KEY TAKEAWAYS:Bukowski turned a science and medical background into a foundation for writing medical thrillers like Project Suicide.Publishing short fiction helped Bukowski refine his skills and establish himself as a novelist.A hotel trapdoor inspired Checkout Time, showing how everyday moments can lead to compelling fiction.Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free! https://substack.com/@reenitahora GUEST RESOURCES:thrillerjohnb.netwww.projectsuicidenovel.comwww.checkouttimenovel.comJohn Bukowski - Facebookhttps://X@jabukow2021HOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIO:Dr. John Bukowski is a former veterinary practitioner, health researcher, and medical writer who now writes short fiction and fast-paced novels, including Project Suicide (www.projectsuicidenovel.com) and the recently published Checkout Time (www.checkouttimenovel.com). He has authored fourteen published short stories and a variety of consumer materials, including handbooks, website content, and radio scripts. He has extensive experience in public speaking, having appeared on the theatrical stage, radio, television, and podcasts, as well as in workshops and seminars. He’s a Detroit native who currently resides in Eastern Tennessee.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Summary
S6 Ep 10 - THE OLD TOWN HORROR: Murder and Theft in America’s Most Historic Locale
Jul 8, 202500:17:14Summary readyHave you ever wondered how history’s dark secrets inspire modern fiction? Ready to uncover the violent past of America’s most iconic locales? I’m Reenita Hora, your host of the True Fiction Project, and today I’m thrilled to welcome Ed Moser—a former writer for Jay Leno’s Tonight Show, presidential speechwriter, history tour guide, and author with a knack for unearthing gripping tales. In this episode, Ed takes us through the scandal-filled history of Washington, D.C.’s Lafayette Square, as detailed in his nonfiction book, The White House’s Unruly Neighborhood, which exposes 230 years of crime. Ed reads an excerpt from his novel, The Old Town Horror: Murder and Theft in America’s Most Historic Locale, which transports us to a bloody investigation taking place at The Carlisle Mansion, in Alexandria Virginia.IN THIS EPISODE:(01:32) Ed reflects on his professional journey and working on The Tonight Show(04:25) Ed shares that there have been violent events over 230 years around the White House(06:47) How the events of the past become fiction in the present day at the Carlisle Mansion(08:52) Paid subscribers will hear an excerpt from The White House’s Unruly Neighborhood(11:44) Excerpt from The Old Town Horror, set in modern Alexandria, Virginia, where a bloody investigation taking placeKEY TAKEAWAYS:Moser’s novel The Old Town Horror draws from real historical events in Alexandria, blending past and present for a thrilling narrative.Moser’s research reveals a surprising history of violence, including murders and espionage, in iconic Washington, DC locales like Lafayette Square.Moser compares writing for The Tonight Show and the White House to making sausage, as both involve blending material from multiple writers.Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free, or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode. You will also be eligible for other extras, such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction, and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora GUEST RESOURCES:THE OLD TOWN HORROR: Murder and Theft in America’s Most Historic LocaleLafayette Sq. Tours of Scandal, Assassination & Spies MeetupTHE OLD TOWN HORROR: Murder and Theft in America's Most Historic Locale - AmazonLafayette Square Tour of Scandal, Assassination & IntrigueEd Moser - LinkedInHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIO:Ed Moser is a former writer for Jay Leno's "Tonight Show"; operator of a history tours group; speechwriter for the President of the United States; a former editor for Time-Life Books; tech/science writer/editor/manager; and biotech writer.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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S6 Ep 9 - Shake Down: First Coast Thriller Series
Jun 24, 202500:29:26Summary readyWhat makes a gripping thriller impossible to put down? Is it the twisty plot, the flawed hero, or the chilling consequences of one wrong move?Welcome! Today, I'm thrilled to introduce a guest whose stories leap off the page with intensity and imagination—Armand Rosamilia. A prolific writer with an impressive body of work spanning crime novels, thrillers, supernatural horror, zombies, contemporary fiction, and nonfiction, Armand is the kind of storyteller who begins with one intriguing question: What if? And from there, a gripping tale unfolds. In today’s conversation, we’ll be diving into his novel Shake Down, and you’ll also hear a powerful excerpt capturing the chilling moment when Walt, a low-level crew member, realizes his final mistake may have cost him everything—including his life.IN THIS EPISODE:(02:39) Armand discusses the different genres he writes, with crime/thrillers being the most profitable(03:40) The “business” of writing—how Armand turned his passion into a full-time profession(09:33) Armand explains character development and the role of Patreon in his creative process(17:04) The evolution of Clayton Conway, a central figure in his fiction(22:41) A gripping read-aloud from Shake Down that describes the fatal price of a botched jobKEY TAKEAWAYS:Armand Rosamilia has been a full-time writer for 13 years, which he attributes to a strategic blend of writing in high-performing genres like crime thrillers (which earn him significantly more than horror) and maintaining a business mindset. He writes what sells while still occasionally indulging in passion projects.Armand uses short stories as marketing tools, “reader magnets,” and experiments in character development. These stories—often published in anthologies or released to his Patreon and newsletter—introduce readers to characters from his longer works, helping build engagement and anticipation for his full-length novels.Armand follows a hybrid publishing model—self-publishing under his imprint (Rimfire Books) while also working with small and large presses. This approach broadens his audience, shares production costs, and provides him with access to the built-in fan bases of other publishers, thereby increasing discoverability and long-term earnings.Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free, or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode. You will also be eligible for other extras, such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction, and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora FICTION CREDITS:Excerpt written and ready by: Armand RosamiliaGUEST RESOURCES:Armand Rosamilia - WebsiteArmand Rosamilia - Horror Author - LinkedInArmand Rosamilia - FacebookAuthor Armand Rosamilia - Facebook BusinessArmand Rosamilia (@ArmandAuthor) - XArmand Rosamilia (@armand_rosamilia) • Instagram Photos and VideosShake Down (First Coast Thriller Series): 9798401775757: Rosamilia, Amazon Armand: BooksHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIO:Armand Rosamilia is a New Jersey boy currently living in sunny Florida, where he writes when he's not sleeping. He's happily married to a woman who helps his career and is supportive, which is all he ever wanted in life. He has written over 200 stories that are currently available, including crime thrillers, supernatural thrillers, horror, zombie fiction, contemporary fiction, nonfiction, and more. His goal is to write a good story and not worry about genre labels. He also loves to talk in third person… because he's really that cool. Maybe.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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S6 Ep 8 - Crossroads
Jun 3, 202500:20:06Summary readyI’m excited to sit down with a very talented writer, entrepreneur, and academic researcher, Rhonda Parker Taylor. Her debut novel, Crossroads, is rooted in personal tragedy—the loss of her adopted son—and shaped by her journey through professional setbacks. We explore how fiction can be a spiritual mirror, and how her story caught the attention of Mariel Hemingway, granddaughter of Ernest Hemingway. You’ll also hear a gripping excerpt from Crossroads, capturing the haunting aftermath of a life-altering choice that will change a young man's life. Tune in for a robust conversation about how storytelling can heal, reveal, and predict real life. IN THIS EPISODE: (03:35) Rhonda shares how entrepreneurship and academics came together to write crime fiction (07:27) Discussion of writing a novel and how life can mirror fiction (09:12) How Mariel Hemingway, granddaughter of Ernest Hemingway, came to endorse Crossroads (12:56) Rhonda shares a moment from the book where a young man makes the wrong choice (15:01) Rhonda reads a passage from Crossroads describing the aftermath of a murder the night before, and Billy did not know what to do KEY TAKEAWAYS: Professional setbacks and personal tragedy drove Rhonda’s journey from business professional to academic researcher and fiction writer. A humiliating experience with a business proposal motivated her to improve her writing, eventually leading her to publish Crossroads. The tragic loss of her adopted son profoundly influenced her emotional perspective, paralleling elements of her novel’s plot and reinforcing her belief in the transformative power of storytelling. Writing can reflect or even predict real life, making storytelling a powerful form of personal and spiritual expression. This perspective underscores storytelling as more than mere entertainment; it's portrayed as a deeply personal and sometimes prophetic expression of the inner self. The endorsement of Crossroads by Mariel Hemingway—actress and granddaughter of Ernest Hemingway—was not just a stroke of luck, but a meaningful alignment. Hemingway resonated with the novel’s central character and themes of emotional struggle and personal reinvention. Her support underscores how powerful fiction can reflect universal life experiences and invite deeper introspection. Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free, or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode. You will also be eligible for other extras, such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction, and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora FICTION CREDITS: Written and read by: Rhonda Parker Taylor GUEST RESOURCES: Rhonda Parker Taylor - Facebook Rhonda Parker Taylor - Instagram Rhonda Parker Taylor - Twitter Rhonda Parker Taylor - LinkedIn Rhonda Parker Taylor - TikTok Suspense Thriller Crossroads by Rhonda Parker Taylor - Website Crossroads - Amazon Crossroads - Barnes and Noble HOST RESOURCES Website LinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIO: Rhonda Parker Taylor is an American writer, entrepreneur, and academic researcher. Rhonda’s diverse writing spans from educational works to fiction, and she is well-known for her research on emotional intelligence. Her academic achievements extend to being a prominent leader, having presented at the United Nations Global Compact Committee. Her debut novel, “Crossroads,” a suspenseful masterpiece, was released in February 2023. Endorsed by bestselling author J.J. Hebert and Golden Globe-nominated actress Mariel Hemingway, the novel has been hailed as a captivating crime thriller that keeps readers intrigued from start to finish. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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S6 Ep 7 - The Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact: Tales From the Clinic
May 20, 202500:16:26Summary readyHi everyone! I am so excited to bring you Vicky McGrath on this week’s episode of the True Fiction Project to discuss her graphic novel The Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact - Tails from the Clinic. Victoria was inspired by her daughter’s desire to become a veterinarian, and she uses her childhood hometown to bring the setting of The Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact: Tails from the Clinic to life. Listen in as Victoria reads an excerpt from her book about two excited middle-grade friends on their way to the veterinary clinic after school.IN THIS EPISODE:(02:10) Vicky shares how she developed the foundation for the series of novels (06:59) Vicky tells why she chose to write a graphic novel for middle grade(08:41) How did Victoria find an illustrator(13:36) Vicky reads a passage from The Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact describing how her characters met due to their moms owning a veterinary clinic togetherKEY TAKEAWAYS:Vicky's journey into writing her middle-grade fantasy graphic novel series, Tails from the Clinic, began during the COVID-19 lockdowns. As an in-person, service-based business owner in Ontario, she had to pivot her work life drastically. Writing became a source of stress relief and a way to combat isolation and anxiety—what started as a creative outlet eventually blossomed into a full-fledged book series.The inspiration behind the series stems from her daughter’s lifelong dream of becoming a veterinarian. The main characters’ mothers are vets who co-own a clinic, and the story is rooted in Vicky's childhood hometown. Vicky gravitated toward the graphic novel format because of her childhood love for comics like Tintin. Though she isn’t an illustrator, she collaborated closely with her publisher and artist to bring her detailed vision to life, making her books accessible and appealing—especially to reluctant readers and those who thrive on visual storytelling.Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free, or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode. You will also be eligible for other extras, such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction, and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora FICTION CREDITS:Written by Vicky McGrathRead by Vicky McGrathGUEST RESOURCES:Vicky McGrath - FacebookThe Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact - AmazonThe Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact - Barnes and NobleThe Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact - Indigo ChaptersVicky McGrath - WebsiteVicky McGrath - InstagramHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIO:Vicky McGrath is the author of a middle-grade children’s graphic novel series, Tails From the Clinic. Vicky began writing the novel series during the COVID-19 lockdown as a creative outlet, inspired by her daughter's desire to become a veterinarian and their shared love for Harry Potter. Before becoming an author, Vicky owned and ran a senior care business for eight years. Vicky enjoys writing fantasy and incorporating fun, humor and adventure with the main themes of friendship, love and bravery.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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S6 Ep 6 - A Cup of Tea on the Commode
Apr 28, 202500:24:46Summary readyHello, everyone! I am thrilled to visit with Mark Steven Porro, who has led a fascinating life, taking him from Hollywood to caring for his mother, the inspiration that led him to write A Cup of Tea on the Commode. This heartfelt memoir captures the raw, authentic, and humorous moments of caring for a loved one. Stay tuned as Mark reads an excerpt from his book, detailing an unusual conversation between mother and son during their seemingly normal morning routine. Tune in to hear more!IN THIS EPISODE:(02:10) Mark speaks about his current home in France and his childhood(04:54) Mark began his acting career with stars like Chuck Norris and Tom Hanks(08:26) An award-winning short film called SUV: Sport Utility Vehicle (12:08) Mark moves from Hollywood back to his childhood home to care for his mother(16:32) Mark reads a conversation he and his mother had that inspired A Cup of Tea on the Commode(20:46) Mark reads an excerpt from A Cup of Tea on the Commode KEY TAKEAWAYS:Mark’s journey showcases his strong entrepreneurial drive, from launching multiple businesses to creating a unique snack food company in honor of his father. His ability to balance creative pursuits with business ventures serves as an inspiration to all of us.Mark has explored various artistic avenues, including acting, directing, writing, and industrial design. His work in Hollywood includes roles in Hill Street Blues and Castaway, along with his award-winning short film. Now residing in a historic village in southwest France, Mark immerses himself in a creative environment rich in theater, history, and artistic inspiration. His move emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with a stimulating atmosphere to fuel creativity.Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free, or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode. You will also be eligible for other extras, such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction, and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora FICTION CREDITS:Written by Mark Steven PorroRead by Mark Steven PorroGUEST RESOURCES:A Cup of Tea on the Commode - WebsiteA Cup of Tea on the Commode - FacebookA Cup of Tea on the Commode - YouTubeA Cup of Tea on the Commond - Twitter (X)A Cup of Tea on the Commode - InstagramMark Steven Porro - LinkedInA Cup of Tea on the Commode - PinterestA Cup of Tea on the Commode - TikTokSUV Sport Utility Vehicle - YouTubeHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIO:Mark Steven Porro, a New Jersey native (Exit 163), earned an Industrial Design degree from Ohio State University. After years in agency work, his passion for acting took him to Hollywood, where he appeared in numerous TV, film, and stage productions. Along the way, Mark launched five non-profit companies, none of which were planned for applause. Now living in the South of France, he enjoys life in wine country, where the locals assure him his French isn’t so bad—at least, that’s what he believes they’re saying. An award-winning designer, writer, director, and best-selling author, Mark's debut memoir, A Cup of Tea on the Commode, chronicles the bittersweet and humorous journey of caring for his mother in her final years. Though his efforts weren't always perfect, he came pretty close.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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S6 Ep 5 - Laila O Laila
Apr 15, 202500:26:21Summary readyHello, everyone! I'm thrilled to welcome the incredibly talented Laila Khan Furniturewalla to the show. Laila comes from a renowned and multitalented family, led by her father, the legendary Indian filmmaker, actor, and writer, Feroz Khan. While her roots are in film, Laila has carved her path in mixed media art, drawing inspiration from Ganesha—the beloved elephant god honored across and revered amongst various cultures. Listen as Laila recounts fond memories of her father and his dedication to perfecting his craft. As a special treat at the end of the episode, we’ll hear a song dedicated to Laila by her father, Feroz Khan from the film Qurbani. See below for more information on Laila's upcoming art show!IN THIS EPISODE:(02:24) Laila shares the type of art she creates (05:32) Laila discusses her father and his contributions to the film industry in India(10:16) Why wasn’t Laila encouraged to pursue acting(12:09) Laila explains how the song Laila O Laila was inspired (16:11) Discussion of the actresses' careers launched because of the film Qurbani(21:00) Listen to the song Laila O Laila from the film QurbaniKEY TAKEAWAYS:Laila Furniturewalla’s artwork is deeply inspired by spirituality and Indian culture, especially the elephant-headed deity Ganesh. She explores themes of divinity, abstraction, and formlessness, using mixed media and textures to create almost sculptural canvases that invite the viewer to complete the interpretation.Laila is the daughter of legendary Indian filmmaker and artist Feroz Khan. Growing up in a creative, intellectual household filled with art, sculpture, and film, she was influenced by her father’s aesthetic sensibilities. She chose to follow her artistic path, embracing the self-expression of visual art.The beloved Hindi film song Laila O Laila was named after and inspired by Laila Furniturewalla herself. The song became a generation's anthem. She pridefully recalls how her father predicted its success and how the original version remains unmatched in its emotional impact and artistry.ART SHOW“UNTAMED HEART “ is a celebration of raw emotion.”Born in the quiet storm of the COVID-19 crisis, these works respond to the fragility of life — interweaving survival, loss, and resilience.Ganesh appears not as an idol, but as an evolving force , a symbol of Shakti through Gauri, the feminine energy within.This exhibition marks a breaking free — from boundaries, from expectations and expresses how I feel about life, and the soul of things.We look forward to having you with us at Gallery Art & Soul - Worli, Mumbai from 16th -22nd April.Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free, or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode. You will also be eligible for other extras, such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction, and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora MUSICAL CREDITS:Inspired by Laila Furniturewalla and written by Feroz KhanGUEST RESOURCES:Laila Khan - WebsiteLaila Khan Art - InstagramHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIO:An Artist since childhood, Laila Khan Furniturewalla has trained in fine art from the Slade School of Fine Art & the Central Saint Martins School of Fine Art in London, UK. She has held numerous shows & her artworks are held in many esteemed private collections. Her work has been included in auctions and fundraisers & she has donated her work to many charitable causes in India & Internationally. She is also the creative head of Furniturewalla, one of India’s largest & most renowned furniture & decor brands.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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S6 Ep 4 - Him
Mar 31, 202500:19:59Summary readyWelcome everyone! Today, I am joined by guest Brian Gotta, a talented author and entrepreneur based in San Diego. Brian has written four youth sports novels and has recently ventured into adult fiction with his touching new book, Him, a story about a dog that will capture the hearts of all dog lovers. In this episode, we’ll dive into Brian’s journey as an author, the inspiration behind Him, and what it’s like to navigate the world of self-publishing and marketing. At the conclusion of the episode, you'll hear an excerpt from Him, following a dog who is determined to reunite with his former owner but is faced with an obstacle they didn’t expect.IN THIS EPISODE:(00:00) Teaser and opening(01:50) Brian shares his writing journey and talks about his first book, Congratulations, You're a Millionaire(04:20) How Brian began writing the non-fiction genre and then moved into writing fiction inspired by sports books he read in his youth (06:40) Brian discusses self-publishing and the rebranding opportunities on Amazon(10:31) Brian shares the inspiration behind Him[14:23 Brian reads an excerpt from his newest book, HimKEY TAKEAWAYS:Brian Gotta started his writing career with nonfiction, documenting sales techniques, which led to his first published book, Congratulations, You’re a Millionaire. His transition to fiction began with middle-grade sports novels, inspired by his children’s interests and the need for updated, modern storytelling.Whether traditionally published or self-published, authors must actively market their books. Brian learned that even with a publisher, the responsibility of promotion largely falls on the author. This realization led him to self-publish his youth sports novels and rebrand and re-release them for new audiences.As a natural entrepreneur, Brian approaches writing as a business, leveraging his sales and marketing background to promote his books. His experience highlights the importance of perseverance in the publishing world, from rebranding older works to embracing new platforms like Amazon KDP.Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode. You will also be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora Fiction Credits:Written by Brian GottaRead by Brian Gotta GUEST RESOURCES:Brian Gotta - LinkedInBrian Gotta - Facebook BusinessBrian Gotta - XBrian Gotta - InstagramBrian Gotta - WebsiteBrian Gotta Author Page - AmazonCongratulations, You're a Millionaire - BookHim - BookHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIO:Brian Gotta is an author and entrepreneur who lives in San Diego, CA. After graduating from Indiana University with a B.A. in English Literature, he began a sales and sales management career, which inspired his first book, Congratulations! You're a Millionaire! Raising his four children and coaching them in sports inspired him to write a book on coaching baseball, Winning Secrets, and four youth sports novels. His recently-published novel, Him, is his first work of adult fiction.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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S6 Ep 3 - Leave Your Mark on The World
Mar 18, 202500:18:26Summary readyI’m thrilled to introduce the imaginative world of children's author and illustrator Erika Silverman. Through engaging storytelling, Erika explores meaningful themes like self-esteem, perseverance, and inclusivity, helping young readers navigate bullying and self-doubt. We discuss how writing serves as both a creative escape and a powerful mission for her, leading to recognition from The New York Times and a Pulitzer Prize nomination. In this episode, Erika shares her inspiration, the impact of her work, and the heartfelt message behind Leave Your Mark on the World—a charming story about a washable marker determined to become permanent by making a difference. IN THIS EPISODE:(00:00) Teaser(02:04) Erika shares why she writes children's fiction, her recognition by The New York Times, and a Pulitzer Prize nomination.(04:25) Erika writes about a range of topics kids may be struggling with(07:10) Writing is an escape for Erika from her day job(08:57) Erika explains where she gets her inspiration and tells about the book she will read(12:06) Erika’s books are at Amazon, Walmart, Barnes and Noble and online stores (12:43) Erika shares the premise of her work Leave Your Mark on The World KEY TAKEAWAYS:Inspired by a deep desire to uplift young minds, these stories explore self-esteem, perseverance, and overcoming obstacles. They address real-world issues like bullying, self-doubt, and inclusivity in a way that resonates with children, transforming personal passion into a meaningful creative outlet.These books cover various inspirational topics, including overcoming self-doubt, turning challenges into opportunities, and navigating issues like bullying, discrimination, and self-esteem.Encouraging Young Readers – Inspired by the struggles of young readers who find books challenging, these stories are designed to engage children while reinforcing positive messages and a love for reading.Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode. You will also be eligible to receive other extras, such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora Fiction Credits:Written by Erika SilvermanRead by Erika SilvermanGUEST RESOURCES:Erika Silverman - WebsiteErika Silverman - FacebookHow To Be Human - BookHow To Become a Super Hero -BookLemonade - BookRaining Lemons - BookEnzos Treasure Hunt - BookHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIO:I’m a wife, mother, estate planning attorney, author, and illustrator who wears many hats. With 12—soon to be 14—published children's books, I combine my love for writing, art, and design to inspire young minds. My greatest inspiration comes from my two children, and I also design empowering clothes and accessories for kids. Resting for me is working because I love what I do. I believe in making a difference—otherwise, why are we here? I was honored when The New York Times featured my first book, How to Become a Superhero: Unlock Your Superpowers, and I haven’t stopped writing since!Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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