Hey Joy Seekers!

I apologize it’s been a while…so much going on at home. Just…a lot. Which is why I have this show! So we can remember what joy is and that it’s never too far away (even when life’s got you curled in on yourself and just keeps on kicking.)

I’m thrilled to be back with another inspiring episode of Write for Joy, and this time, we've got a special treat for you – a heartfelt conversation with the amazingly creative Brandon J. Greer! 🌟

Here’s just 5 of the things you’ll learn in this episode:

1. Balancing Artistic Passions: Find out how Brandon's love for drawing, acting, and writing fuels his creative journey.

2. Redemption Arcs: Why Brandon believes in second chances and how he weaves them into his fantasy stories.

3. Finding Joy in the Process: Brandon shares how he experiences joy in every step of writing, from brainstorming to final edits. Yes, EDITS.

4. Plotting vs. Pantsing: Get insights on how even a strict outliner like Brandon allows for spontaneity in storytelling.

5. The Power of Queries: Learn why writing a killer query letter can improve not just your chances with agents but also your overall writing craft.

Fun Fact from the Episode:

Did you know Brandon wrote his first book in the 6th grade? It was cleverly titled "Around the World in About a Year." Talk about starting young and with flair! 🌍📖

Tune in now to catch all the wisdom and warmth Brandon brings to our Write for Joy conversation. And hey, if you’re struggling with writing that daunting query letter, Brandon’s got some fantastic tips for you!

👉 Subscribe to our channel So you never miss an awesome, joyful chat!

Now let's go grab some joy!🌟✨

Namaste!

💛Ali

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Want to be a Guest on the Show? Just fill out this form and your wish shall be granted! https://write4joy.captivate.fm/booking

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Brandon J Greer is second and third oldest in a family of ten. (He was second oldest until a new marriage brought a new child that bumped him to third.) To set himself apart from so many siblings, he discovered the arts. Drawing, acting, and writing pulled him in at a young age. His first book, Around the World in About a Year, was completed in the sixth grade and was complete garbage but it won him a place in an arts competition at the local university. Now living in northern Utah with his wife and daughter, he travels as much as he can.

Links:

https://authorbrandonjgreer.wixsite.com/books

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Ali Cross is a USA Today Bestselling author, happiness enthusiast and believer in hope in magic. Plus, she just really likes to talk to people.

She writes YA SciFi & Fantasy as Ali Archer and Christian Romance as Ali Noble.

Ali, aka the StoryNinja, also teaches character and story development.

Check out the links for All Things Ali!

www.alicross.com

📚Facebook Reader Group📚 https://www.facebook.com/groups/alicats

Hey Joy-Seekers!

Are you ready for an inspiring trip through the pages of an accomplished writer's story? Our latest episode features the incredibly talented Carolyn Campbell, an award-winning journalist who has spent over 40 years crafting captivating stories for a variety of outlets.

This conversation is full of insights, laughs, and wisdom that any writer will cherish.

🖋️ 5 Writing Gems You'll Unearth in This Episode:

1. Award-Winning Insight: Learn how Carolyn snagged the prestigious Society of Professional Journalists Award, a testament to her outstanding talent in a field brimming with skilled writers.
2. The Power of Passion & Authenticity: Discover Carolyn's secret to creating genuine connections through her writing and interviews by sharing her own life's struggles and victories.
3. Interview Intimidation No More: Get insider tips for overcoming the fear of interviewing, including how to turn a daunting Q&A into a comfortable chat with a "nice person."
4. Clutter to Clarity: Explore the quirky side of creativity as Carolyn shares how her battle with clutter sparked a writing journey that resonated with readers and led to real-life opportunities.
5. True Crime Tidbits: Gear up for some heart-pounding storytelling as Carolyn teases her upcoming true crime podcast "True Crime Soup" that she'll be stirring up with her son.

🌟 Fun Fact of The Episode:

Amid the powerful life lessons, did you know that Carolyn found a unique family connection to the Presleys? Yep, you heard that right! Tune in to discover how her search for her birth family led to this fascinating piece of personal history.

As always, thank you for being such an integral part of our Write4Joy community. Your enthusiasm for stories, writing tips, and the joys of creation truly make this channel what it is - a treasure trove of writerly wisdom.

Now, hit that subscribe button, then go out and grab yourself some joy!

Namaste!

Ali

P.S.: Have you had a run-in with clutter, or masterfully managed an intimidating interview recently? Share your story with us—we'd love to hear it! 📚✨

Want to be a Guest on the Show? Just fill out this form and your wish shall be granted! https://write4joy.captivate.fm/booking

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Carolyn Campbell is the author of three books and 900 magazine articles. She's been writing for 40 years.

^^That's the bio that Carolyn gave me, but she's SO MUCH MORE than just this. You'll have to tune into the show to discover for yourself!

Links:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolyn.campbell2

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolyncampbell5150

LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-campbell-3791062/

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Ali Cross is a USA Today Bestselling author, happiness enthusiast and believer in hope in magic. Plus, she just really likes to talk to people.

She writes YA SciFi & Fantasy as Ali Archer and Christian Romance as Ali Noble.

Ali, aka the StoryNinja, also teaches character and story development.

Check out the links for All Things Ali!

www.alicross.com

📚Facebook Reader Group📚 https://www.facebook.com/groups/alicats

🥷🏻StoryNinja🥷🏻

Hey Joy-Seekers!

Prepare to have your imagination whisked away to a realm where dark fantasy thrives, and familiar tales are woven anew. Our latest episode features the delightful and incredibly imaginative Abigail O'Bryan who joined me for a heartwarming conversation full of creative insights and a dash of gardening banter. Trust me, this cozy chat is the perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee or tea!

🔑 5 Keys You'll Unlock in This Episode:

1. The Birth of a Dark Fantasy: Discover the inspiration behind Abigail's upcoming book, "Iron Rose," and how her twist on the classic "Beauty and the Beast" gives it a fierce new life.
2. The Journey of a Storyteller: Abigail shares her evolution from a high school writer to a stay-at-home mom who crafts stories about deep characters and fascinating worlds.
3. The Symphony of Creative Passion: Ali and Abigail talk about shifting their musical talents to writing and the parallel between the dedication to develop musical talent with the unseen grind behind creating magical prose.
4. Finding Your Creative Cheerleader: Learn about the importance of having someone who has unwavering faith in your work. Shoutout to Nova, who Abigail gives credit to keeping her going.
5. Joy in the Craft: Both Ali and Abigail dive into what brings them joy in their respective passions, shining light on the small wonders that fuel their creative fires.

🌷 Fun Fact: In another life, Abigail might have been a gardener. Abigail describes her literary world as one where her characters and stories blossom with the same care and affection one would give to a rose garden in bloom.

As we wrap up this exciting episode, I’m not just inspired by Abigail's passion for writing and the arts, but I’m also chomping at the bit to hold "Iron Rose" in our eager hands. If you're as enchanted by the idea of fierce sword fights, wild escapes, and intoxicating love as we are, Abigail's new book is not to be missed!

🌟 Call to Action:

Don't forget to hit like, subscribe, and ring that notification bell to join us on every literary adventure. Once you’ve done that, head over to Abigail's Instagram for a daily sprinkle of fantasy, and sign up for her newsletter so you don’t miss the release of “Iron Rose”! Let's support our new voice in dark fantasy and show her the same love that she pours into her spellbinding tales!

Now go and grab yourself some joy

Namaste!

Ali

Want to be a Guest on the Show? Just fill out this form and your wish shall be granted! https://write4joy.captivate.fm/booking

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Abigail O'Bryan writes dark fantasy retellings of humanity & happily ever afters. When not writing, she's raising two kids and seeing just how many flowers she can fit in her arms.

Links:

IG: @abigail_obryan_author

Website: www.authorabigailobryan.com

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Ali Cross is a USA Today Bestselling author, happiness enthusiast and believer in hope in magic. Plus, she just really likes to talk to people.

She writes YA SciFi & Fantasy as Ali Archer and Christian Romance as Ali Noble.

Ali, aka the StoryNinja, also teaches character and story development.

Check out the links for All Things Ali!

www.alicross.com

📚Facebook Reader Group📚

Hey Joy-Seekers!

This episode is going to resonate with all the dreamers, doers, and joy-seekers out there. I had the chance to sit down with the multi-talented engineer and wordsmith Daniel Sayre for a heart-to-heart that's as inspiring as it is insightful. Grab your favorite brew, settle in, and prepare yourself for a conversation that's all about finding joy in the pursuit of passion, purpose, and the art of writing. 📚☕️

🔑 5 Keys to Discovering Joy and Purpose:

1. The Intersection of Interests: Learn how Daniel Sayre balances his love for engineering with the creative world of writing, and find out how to align your career with your passions.
2. Defining Joy: Dive into what joy means to both Daniel and I—spoiler alert, it's all about taking risks and accepting challenges.
3. Facing Challenges Beyond the Page: Explore the bravery of embracing both the writer's journey and life's adventures, like Spartan races, white water rafting, and even mountain climbing!
4. Writing with Impact: Understand the ripple effect your writing can have on readers and how simple stories can carry profound meaning.
5. Risk-taking and No Regrets: Be encouraged to take risks in life that promise growth, excitement, and the satisfaction of living without regrets.

🤓 Fun Fact:

Did you know Daniel Sayre not only eats up words on the page but also gobbles up miles in obstacle course races? That's right, he takes on the gritty Spartan Race and Tough Mudder like a champ! For Daniel, it's all about the joy of crossing the finish line.

It was an absolute pleasure to have Daniel brighten up our Write4Joy community with his experiences and insights. This episode is a treasure trove of golden nuggets for anyone looking to find that sweet spot where joy meets purpose. So make sure you tune in and treat your soul to this wonderful conversation!

📣 Call to Action:

As always, we'd love for you to be part of the conversation. After you've listened to the episode, hit us up in the comments with your own definitions of joy, risks you're thinking of taking, or just how you're pursuing your passions! And if you've been stirred by the words shared, let's show some love and support for our indie authors like Daniel—visit his website, check out "Becoming Glitch," and look out for the sequel sometime this year!

Spread joy, be fearless in your pursuits, and keep writing your own adventure, my friends!

Namaste!

Ali

PS. If you haven't yet, smash that subscribe button to join our community of joyful writers and storytelling enthusiasts. Let's bring some joy to that inbox and life of yours!

Want to be a Guest on the Show? Just fill out this form and your wish shall be granted! https://write4joy.captivate.fm/booking

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Daniel Sayre holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering as well as a double minor in math and creative writing from San Jose State University. In spite of this, he tries to remain only a part-time nerd. He is a sucker for a good superhero story and loves the great outdoors, whether hiking, backpacking, obstacle course races, or just getting to see new places. He also likes pizza, spending time with friends, and playing around on his 3D printer. Cooking and spelling bees… not so much. He lives in California.

Links:

Check out Daniel's website at https://danielsayreauthor.com/.

He's also on Facebook at

Hey Joy-Seekers!

This episode of Write for Joy, is a real treat. In this episode I sat down with Susan Phelan, an author and actress, to discuss her book "Miss Classified" and the joy of writing. Here's a sneak peek of what you'll discover in this engaging conversation:

1. Understanding Joy: Susan and Ali delve into the concept of joy and its significance in writing, shedding light on how joy can manifest as a secondary emotion tied to discovery and love.
2. Writing as Discovery: A fascinating discussion on how Susan's background in acting has influenced her as a writer, and the joy she finds in becoming one with her characters during the writing process.
3. Impact of Authentic Work: Discover how Susan's work, "Miss Classified," has brought joy to readers and provided insights into understanding ADHD from a new perspective.
4. The Circle of Joy: Uncover the beautiful cycle of joy as Susan shares her experiences of joy as an author and actress, and the joy she feels when her work brings joy to others.
5. A Fun Fact: Check out Susan's acting credits, including the teen comedy romance "You're So Cupid" and the Lifetime Christmas movie "Hot Chocolate Holiday"!

This episode is packed with insightful and heartfelt moments—and lots of laughter. So, if you're ready to infuse your writing journey with joy and inspiration, this episode is a must-listen!

Here's an extra fun fact that just proves Susan’s awesomeness. Susan held a backyard carnival at the age of 10 to raise money for Jerry Lewis' kids. What a joyful childhood memory to cherish!

If you're as inspired as I am, it's time to take action. Head over to my website to listen to the full episode and explore the show notes where you’ll find links to Susan's work and projects. Let Susan's journey and insights spark joy and creativity in your writing endeavors!

I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did.

‘Till next time, go out and grab your joy!

Namaste!

Ali

Want to be a Guest on the Show? Just fill out this form and your wish shall be granted! https://write4joy.captivate.fm/booking

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Susan Phelan is an actress and author. Her middle grade contemporary novel, Miss Classified, was inspired by her own children, three of whom struggled with ADHD—just like Miss Classified’s main character. The book is fun and humorous and worth a read! See if you can spot her in the teen comedy “You’re So Cupid”, and the Lifetime Christmas movie, “Hot Chocolate Holiday.”

Links:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susan.m.phelan/

Twitter: @suepeaZQ

Instagram: suepea5

thesusanphelan.com (still under construction)

IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3525157/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0susanmphelan@gmail.com

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Ali Cross is a USA Today Bestselling author, happiness enthusiast and believer in hope in magic. Plus, she just really likes to talk to people.

She writes YA SciFi &

Hey Joy-Seekers!

Our latest episode was a true joy to create. Laurie Lewis’s passion for storytelling and zest for life is totally infectious. Get ready to be dazzled by her insights and heartfelt anecdotes as she and I enjoyed a stirring conversation on the wonders of writing and the pursuit of joy.

✨💎 5 Joyful Gems 💎✨

1. Learn how authors like Laurie infuse their love for family, faith, and personal interests into their writing, creating rich narratives that resonate with readers—and maybe even make a difference in their lives.
2. Discover Laurie's approach to character-driven storytelling, which has sprouted from her real-life interactions, such as her touching experience with a French woman in a nursing home.
3. Gain a fresh perspective on how writing can be a means to work with the Divine Creator and produce truth in fiction—whether through first-hand encounters or sheer empathy and imagination.
4. Find out how specific life events can transform into award-winning novels like “The Letter Carrier," proving that sometimes the best stories choose us.
5. Get a heartfelt reminder of the impact that books can have on readers and the community, as Laurie's work not only tells enthralling stories but also brings families and estranged relatives together.

🤓 Fun Fact from the Episode 🤓

Did you know that “The Letter Carrier” evolved from an 8-year labor of love to help a woman share her wartime story, eventually becoming a celebrated piece of historical fiction that garnered a Whitney Award? Talk about a novel that wrote its own destiny!

This heart-to-heart with Laurie Lewis is more than just a peek behind the curtain of an author's life; it's a reminder of the profound joy we can all find in our creative pursuits.

🙌 Call to Action 🙌

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the full episode, and let Laurie’s journey inspire your next writing adventure! Hit the subscribe button and never miss out on stories that spark your passion. If Laurie’s tales tug at your heartstrings, check out her books to experience the magic first-hand.

Keep spreading joy, my friends! One word at a time!

Namaste!

Ali

P.S. I’d love to hear about the joy you've found in writing or reading. Drop us a comment or share your story with us on social media!

Write on! ✍️💖

Want to be a Guest on the Show? Just fill out this form and your wish shall be granted! https://write4joy.captivate.fm/booking

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Laurie (L.C.) Lewis is a weather-whining lover of family, God, twinkle lights, and the sea. Realizing that she was craft-challenged and particularly lethal with a glue gun, she set her creative juices on writing, which was less likely to burn her fingers. Having won several awards for her work, she feels writing is her niche.

Born in Baltimore, Laurie spent many years within the exciting and history-rich corridor between Philadelphia, Baltimore, and D.C., which made her a politics

and history junkie. She’s the author of fifteen novels published in multiple genres.

Her women’s fiction, romance novels, and suspense novels are written under her own name—Laurie Lewis—and her historical fiction novels are penned as L.C. Lewis.

Her WWII novel, “The Letter Carrier,” won two Whitney Awards —Best General/Historical Fiction 2023 and Novel of the Year, 2023. She’s a RONE Award Winner (The Dragons of Alsace Farm) and was twice named a New Apple Literary Award winner in 2017 (The Dragons of Alsace Farm) and in 2018, winning

Best New Fiction (Love on a Limb). She is also a BRAGG Medallion honoree, and she was twice named a Whitney Awards and USA Best Books Awards...

Hey Joy-Seekers!

I hope you're all doing great. We have a new episode up on the channel, and I can't wait to share all the joy-filled wisdom from our guest, Kara Leigh Miller. In this episode, Kara dives into where she finds joy in writing and life, and it's truly inspiring. Here's some highlights of what you can expect from this episode:

1. Keys to Finding Joy: Kara shares her insights on finding joy in writing and life. She talks about the importance of personal permission to step away, embracing discovery writing, and the joy in the storytelling process.
2. Fun Fact: Did you know that Kara has written Christian romance and a paranormal romance series that has been compared to the next generation of Twilight? It's so fascinating to hear about her diverse writing journey!
3. We discuss the challenges of balancing personal and professional life and the importance of giving oneself the space to find joy in writing.

Soak up all the positivity and wisdom from Kara Leigh Miller. I guarantee you'll walk away with a brighter perspective and some new tools to find joy in your own writing journey.

Happy listening, and as always, keep seeking joy in every corner of your life!

Cheers!

Ali

🌟P.S. Don't forget to hit the like button and share your key takeaways in the comments🌟

Want to be a Guest on the Show? Just fill out this form and your wish shall be granted! https://write4joy.captivate.fm/booking

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Kara Leigh Miller is a multi-genre published author and an avid reader with eclectic tastes that range from the tame to the taboo. She currently lives in Michigan with her husband, kids, a spoiled rotten pit bull, and five needy cats. When she's not busy writing romance novels that leave readers swooning, she's spending time with her family, working out, or binge watching Netflix. And sometimes, she'll even play golf with her husband, even though she totally sucks at it.

Links:

Website: www.karaleighmillerauthor.com

Newsletter sign-up (and get a FREE book): https://BookHip.com/GANWAJF

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Ali Cross is a USA Today Bestselling author, happiness enthusiast and believer in hope in magic. Plus, she just really likes to talk to people.

Check out the links for All Things Ali!

⭐For ALL Things Ali

This is where I hang out the most!

Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & TikTok: @thealicross

www.alicross.com

🥷🏻STORYNINJA DOJO🥷🏻

www.storyninjadojo.com

All about writers! It's a bit under construction at the moment, but you can...

Subscribe to NinjaNews, my short, weekly email that includes a brief lesson and a kata (practice) you can do right away. https://www.subscribepage.com/ninjanews

Watch STORYNINJA LIVE!👀

Ann Hunter joins me as we discuss writing, the life and the craft, and offer a weekly kata. We're live Tuesdays 5-6 p.m. MT on YouTube and Twitch!

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@alicross

Twitch:

Hey Joy Seekers!

I hope you're all doing amazing! I'm thrilled to finally be back with season 2 of the Write4Joy show where we dive into the world of joy, happiness, and, of course, writing. In this episode, I caught up with one of my besties, Ann Hunter, for a heartwarming and inspiring conversation. So, grab a cozy spot and get ready to be uplifted!

Here are 5 keys that you'll take away from our chat with Ann Hunter:

1. The power of gratitude: Ann shares how being grateful for the small things in life brings her joy, and how her family and friends play a significant role in that.

2. Overcoming challenges: Ann opens up about her personal battles with mental health and how she's found solace through writing and creating safe spaces for representation in her work.

3. The joy of writing community: We explore the importance of finding a supportive community and how it can be a driving force in reaching your writing goals.

4. Embracing authenticity: Ann's work champions tough teen issues and demonstrates how true Christians should behave, making it a safe space for youth to see themselves represented.

5. Transforming work into play: Ann's infectious energy reminds us all to infuse our work with joy and look at it as a form of play, making it easier and more enjoyable to do.

Shameless Begging: We love Sodalicious! If any of you know any Sodalicious bosses, please consider sponsoring the show! :)

I'd love for you to share your thoughts and takeaways from the episode. What resonated with you the most? Leave me a comment and let's keep the conversation going!

Wishing you all a joy-filled day ahead. And remember, joy is all around you—so grab some for yourself, today!

Big joy-filled hugs,

💛Ali

Namaste!

Want to be a Guest on the Show? Just fill out this form and your wish shall be granted! https://write4joy.captivate.fm/booking

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Multi-award winning author Ann Hunter is awesome. And hilarious. She is often told it must be a blast living in her brain. She argues that the voices in her head never shut up. The only way to get relief is to let them out on to the page. She lives in the shadow of the Wasatch mountains with an overly tolerant husband and two feral daughters.

Links:

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/author/annhunterhttp://www.northoakseries.com

IG: @annhunter82 & @northoakseries

FB: www.facebook.com/northoakseries or /authorannhunter

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Ali Cross is a USA Today Bestselling author, happiness enthusiast and believer in hope in magic. Plus, she just really likes to talk to people.

Check out the links for All Things Ali!

Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & TikTok: @thealicross

www.alicross.com

📚Facebook Fan Group📚:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/alicats

For Writers:

https://www.storyninjadojo.com