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Two weeks ago, our paid subscribers got exclusive early access to one of our most compelling interviews yet.Today, it’s your turn.We’re proud to release our full conversation with Alex R. Johnson—a filmmaker whose debut novel is making serious waves. If you love gritty stories, complex characters, or the electric pulse of New York noir, this is the interview for you.🕵️‍♂️ Who is Alex R. Johnson?Alex made his mark in the film world with Two Step, a tense, critically acclaimed thriller that premiered at SXSW and landed a perfect 100% on Rotten Tomatoes. Since then, he’s written screenplays for major studios like Paramount and Sony, adapted legendary writer Ernest Tidyman’s Big Bucks, and earned a coveted spot on the Black List with his script Northeast Kingdom.But now, he’s taken his storytelling to a new frontier—fiction.His debut novel, Brooklyn Motto, is a literary noir soaked in the raw, changing streets of 1998 New York City. It’s got all the grit, mood, and edge of a classic detective tale, but it also brims with heart, humor, and emotional depth.“Stylish, propulsive, and deeply satisfying.” – Sam Lipsyte“Witty, brooding, and full of soul.” – Evan Handler“A love letter to detective fiction and 90s NYC.” – John Doe (X)💬 What We Talked AboutIn this interview, Alex pulls back the curtain on:* The making of Two Step and what it taught him about storytelling.* The shift from screenwriting to novel writing—and how he found his voice on the page.* Why 1998 New York was the perfect setting for Brooklyn Motto.* Creating Nico Kelly, a reluctant PI with one foot in the past and the other in chaos.* What noir means in a modern world—and why it still matters.It’s part writing masterclass, part personal journey, and part love letter to the city that shaped him.Whether you're a writer, reader, filmmaker, or fan of stories that don’t flinch, this one’s worth your time.📚 Want more like this?If you want to get early access to all our interviews, along with bonus content, behind-the-scenes updates, and more, become a paid subscriber today.Your support helps us keep building this platform, sharing these stories, and spotlighting the voices that matter. Paid subscribers are also helping us develop our new CIC business. That’s right. The Writing Community Chat Show is now a social enterprise. A non-profit business we are building to support authors and more. You can support us by becoming a paid subscriber or donate to our PayPal link here. Thanks for being part of this community. After 5 years hard work on this show, we are just getting the business started. 🎥 CJ & ChrisThe Writing Community Chat Show.WATCH THE INTERVIEW HERE! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.

She’s sold over a million books, written 80 titles, and quietly built one of the most impressive careers in modern historical romance. We were joined by the incredible Sarah M.Eden, and what a joy it was.To mark the release of her latest time-slip romance, The Tides of Time, Sarah opened up about the real story behind her success, and it’s one of resilience, quiet determination, and endless curiosity.Set against the backdrop of 1793 revolutionary France and 1873 England, The Tides of Time is a sweeping tale of survival, love, and time-bending connection. But what inspired it? What draws readers to time travel now more than ever? And how does someone juggle historical accuracy, deep emotional arcs, and consistent storytelling… across 80 books?Sarah shares all of that and more.We also talk about:* Her early days as a writer (and why she once thought she’d never make it)* How Seeking Persephone made the leap from page to screen.* The reality of writing romance with a PG rating, without losing the heart.* Her surprising take on imposter syndrome.* Why persistence matters more than popularity.Whether you're a die-hard fan or meeting Sarah for the first time, this interview will leave you feeling inspired, informed, and just a little bit in awe.👇 Watch the full interview below and don’t forget to hit reply and let us know your favourite takeaway.💬 Did you know? Our paid subscribers got access to this interview two weeks early! Support the show and unlock exclusive content like this by upgrading today. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.

We’ve had some powerful conversations on this show… but this one? This one might top them all.Sara Banyan, Hollywood coach, mental health advocate, and author of Dating for Dudes, joined us for an unforgettable episode that had our live audience buzzing.Seriously. The chat was lighting up with words like "AMAZING," "deeply moving," and "one of the best episodes yet." And they weren’t wrong.Sara brings a unique blend of humor, heart, and hard-earned wisdom. From her early days working with stars like George Clooney and Ted Danson, to coaching some of the biggest names in sport and entertainment, she’s seen behind the curtain of confidence, and knows what it takes to build the real thing.In this conversation, we dive deep into:* 💬 The emotional weight men carry into dating (and what to do about it)* 🧠 Mental health, trauma, and the voices we inherit that hold us back.* ❤️ Why authenticity is sexier than strategy.* 🤝 Advice for women, too, because this isn’t just a “dude” problem.* 🎭 The Mornell Method: how to stop acting and start being.Sara doesn’t just coach performers. She helps people show up as their truest selves, in relationships, in their work, and in life.And yes, there’s plenty of name-dropping (the good kind), stories from inside the industry, and a few hilarious insights from her coaching files.But what makes this episode truly special?Sara’s ability to make you feel seen, even through a screen.https://www.sarabanyan.com/About Dating for DudesThis isn't your average “how to get a girlfriend” book. Dating for Dudes is a field guide to confidence, vulnerability, and connection, with a heavy dose of humor and tough love. Sara covers everything from rejection resilience to writing dating profiles that don’t make people cringe. She helps guys rediscover who they really are before they go looking for someone else.Because the truth is: most of us are acting, whether we’re on stage or swiping on Tinder. And Sara's mission is to help people stop performing and start being, in dating, in life, in everything.Buy it here.💙 If You’re Struggling with Mental HealthIf you’ve been affected by anything discussed in this episode, or if you’re struggling with your mental health, please know you are not alone. Support is available, and reaching out can be the first step toward healing.UK Support:* Samaritans – 24/7 free support for anyone in distress📞 Call 116 123 | 🌐 www.samaritans.org* Mind – Mental health resources, helplines, and support🌐 www.mind.org.ukUS Support:* 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Free, confidential 24/7 support📞 Call or text 988 | 🌐 988lifeline.org* NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) – Resources, support, and education📞 Helpline: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) | 🌐 www.nami.orgYou matter. Help is always here when you need it. 💬💙Watch it here or on our YouTube channel.Whether you’re dating, healing, or just want to better understand the people around you, this is one to sit with.Let us know what you think in the comments. We’d love to hear what hit home for you.— CJ & ChrisThe Writing Community Chat Show This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.

The full interview with Chad Boudreaux is now available to the public!If you’re a fan of gripping legal thrillers, government secrets, and high-stakes storytelling, you’re going to want to dive into this one.We had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Chad Boudreaux, a man whose real-life resume reads like a political thriller. From the U.S. Department of Justice to Deputy Chief of Staff at Homeland Security, Chad has lived through the chaos most writers only imagine. And now, he’s channeling those experiences into his powerhouse novels.🎙 In This Interview:* Chad shares how the events of 9/11 shaped his career and outlook.* We dig into his writing process and how he turns real-world terror and legal complexity into page-turning fiction.* He reveals the inspiration behind his latest book, “No One Leaves Miranda Twice.”* We explore themes of corruption, justice, survival, and the deep personal stakes that fuel his characters.* And yes, we talk hurricanes, secrets, and what makes a truly unforgettable thriller.🎧 Watch or Listen Now.💬 Join the Community Conversation:If you're a paid subscriber, you got early access to this episode two weeks ago, plus an invite to our exclusive post-show web chat with CJ & Chris. Thanks for your amazing support — you're keeping the lights on and the interviews flowing!If you’re not a paid subscriber yet, now’s your chance to unlock:✅ Early access to all future author interviews✅ Bonus content and behind-the-scenes commentary✅ Access to the after-show chats✅ And support two indie hosts doing this for the love of writers and readers🟢 Upgrade to Paid Membership here:🔥 About the Guest:Chad Boudreaux is a former U.S. government official turned legal thriller author. His fiction is packed with insider knowledge, intense action, and heart. His books include Scavenger Hunt and No One Leaves Miranda Twice — both available now.Thanks again to our amazing community. If you enjoy this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend or leaving a comment below. Let’s keep this writing community growing!✍️CJ & ChrisThe Writing Community Chat Show This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.

Our latest episode of The Writing Community Chat Show was the kind that makes you glance over your shoulder before switching off the hallway light. International bestseller J.D. Barker, fresh off the May 13 release of his ghost-thriller Something I Keep Upstairs (already #1 in Amazon’s Ghost Thrillers) joined us for a live, laughter-and-screams-filled conversation that our chat hailed as “Outstanding interview! 🎉🎉🎉”If you missed the stream, the replay is embedded below. Curl up with a cup of something comforting and hit play.▶️ Watch the replay:1. A Real Haunted House, a Real-World BestsellerWood Island, New Hampshire. Lighthouse keepers, unexplained footsteps, a trapdoor to nowhere. These were the tinder sticks that sparked Barker’s latest novel. JD spent time there for his new book launch, where they ferried press and fans over to the house! Plus, JD mentioned a mystery of two missing corpses that were discovered under the sand there. 2. Advice From Three TitansBarker’s phone holds contacts most writers would sell their kidneys for. He has regular conversations with them and has written with James Patterson on numerous occasions. He speaks about this in the show.* Stephen King.* James Patterson.* Dean Koontz.3. Live-Chat Love & Community EnergyOur Substack and YouTube chat exploded with theories about what lurks upstairs, personal ghost anecdotes, and craft questions. The standout comment “Outstanding interview! 🎉🎉🎉” was great to see. As was JDs comment about how great our show looks, and is produced, once the live had ended. 4. Something I Keep Upstairs!In the sleepy coastal town of New Castle, New Hampshire, seventeen-year-old Billy Hasler's life is about to take a terrifying turn. When his best friend David Spivey inherits a mysterious house on a nearby island, it seems like the perfect place to spend their final summer before heading off to college. No parents. No police. No responsibilities.As they dig into the island's dark past, they awaken an ancient evil that has influenced generations. What begins as an innocent summer adventure quickly descends into a nightmare."Something I Keep Upstairs" is a haunting exploration of friendship, sacrifice, and the darkness lurking just beyond our understanding.BUY IT HERE.What’s Upstairs for You?Have you visited a place that buzzed the way Wood Island did for JD? Drop your story in the comments, I’ll feature the creepiest three in next week’s newsletter.And if you value these deep, dive interviews, workshops, and writing-life confessions, consider upgrading to a paid subscription. You’ll get:* Two-week early access to every major guest.* Invitations to our private after-show hangs.* Downloadable resources and prompt packs.* The warm glow of supporting indie creators who occasionally chase ghosts.Thank you for reading, watching, and believing that stories, especially scary ones, matter.Stay brave,The Writing Community Chat Show This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.

JD Kirk is Back – and He's Shaking Things Up!Two weeks ago, our paid subscribers got early access to a very special episode. Now, it’s time to share it with everyone. And trust us, you’re going to love this one.We welcomed back JD Kirk, the multi-million copy bestselling author of the beloved DCI Logan crime series… but this time, he’s bringing something new to the table.JD (aka Barry Hutchison) joins us to talk about his bold new direction, a psychological thriller titled My Daughter Is Missing, publishing with Bookouture on April 16, 2025. But don’t expect a genre checklist. JD’s shift isn’t about following trends. It’s about writing what he loves, and telling the kind of deeply personal, tension-filled stories that keep readers (and writers) up at night.My Daughter Is Missing: A totally addictive psychological thriller with a jaw-dropping twist.My little girl has vanished. And I can't tell anyone...My nine-year-old daughter Hollie should be leaving school smiling and laughing with all the other children but she's not here. I run frantically, checking everywhere, but I can't see her. Pure panic washes over me. This is my worst nightmare.Her teacher asks if she should call the police. My heart stops. I shake my head and pretend I've made a mistake. The police can't know. No one can.My hands shake as I know in my gut my daughter hasn't just wandered off. She's been taken. Someone must know the truth about my past...I've spent so long protecting Hollie, but I always knew this day might come. And I'll stop at nothing to get my little girl.BUY IT HERE!🔍 In this episode:* How JD wrote his first draft in just 16 days — and why messy is magical.* The thrill of having David Tennant narrate his new book.* Why he writes on a walking treadmill — and walks faster during intense scenes.* What’s next for the DCI Logan universe — including upcoming spin-offs.* His leap into film writing, with one movie premiering in New York and another script underway.* Plus: genuine, practical writing advice and loads of laughter.💬 Whether you’re an aspiring author, a seasoned pro, or just a fan of great storytelling, this one is packed with gold.🎥 Watch the full episode now:🎙️ Or listen to our Spreaker Prime Show: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493 [Or check it out on Spotify/Apple/Your Podcast Platform]🟨 Want to be part of the live shows?Paid members get exclusive early access, the chance to ask their own questions live, and join us in the aftershow chat with CJ and Chris Hooley. Support the show and unlock the full experience:Let us know what you think in the comments. And if you’re as excited as we are for JD’s new thriller, hit that share button. 🖤See you next week,CJ & Chris#WritingCommunity #JDKirk #Podcast #DCILogan #ThrillerWriters This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.

There are moments in life, and in podcasting, when something shifts.This was one of those moments.In our latest episode, Tough Guys Are an Endangered Species, we opened a door that many still keep firmly shut:What happens when men feel broken, lost, and alone, and why don’t we talk about it?This wasn’t just another chat.It was an honest, emotional, and transformative conversation between three men who know the weight of silence all too well.👊 Meet Skip – A Man Who’s Walked Through FireOur guest, Dr. “Skip” Mondragon, is a retired Army Colonel, physician, national wrestling champion, and author of Wrestling Depression Is Not for Wimps.But more than anything, Skip is a man who’s faced the dark and chose to speak up so others might find their way out.💬 “This isn’t weakness. This is bravery in its purest form.”What unfolded in this episode was raw, powerful, and healing.Together, Chris Aggett, Chris Hooley, and Skip shared real stories and serious truths:* Growing up believing tears were failure.* The silent weight of loneliness.* Facing the edge, and choosing to step back.* The vital need for a “Battle Buddy” — someone who truly sees you.* The impossible choice between addiction, faith, or suicide.* Why talking could be the difference between life and loss.🧠 Real Talk, Real ToolsThis episode offers more than just awareness—it gives practical support.You’ll come away with:* Steps to take today if you’re struggling* How to help someone else who might be* Why asking for help is true strength* How to find, or be someone’s Battle Buddy* A new definition of masculinity that leaves no one behind🚨 You Are Not Alone: Support ResourcesIf you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t wait to ask for help.UK Support* 📞 Samaritans – 116 123 (free, 24/7)* 📱 SHOUT Crisis Text Line – Text SHOUT to 85258* 🌐 samaritans.orgUS Support* 📞 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Dial 988 (free, 24/7)* 📱 Crisis Text Line – Text HELLO to 741741* 🌐 988lifeline.orgWherever you are in the world, you can find support. You matter.And you’re never as alone as you think.📘 Wrestling Depression Is Not for WimpsLessons Learned from an Amateur Wrestler’s Fight to Triumph Over DepressionAuthor: Dr. Skip Mondragón - Wrestling Depression Is Not For Wimps.In Wrestling Depression Is Not for Wimps, Dr. Skip Mondragón—a retired U.S. Army Medical Corps Colonel, Iraqi War veteran, and National Veterans Wrestling Champion, shares his personal journey through depression. Drawing parallels between the discipline of wrestling and the battle against mental illness, he offers practical strategies to overcome depression. The book emphasizes the importance of seeking help, the power of community, and the role of faith in recovery. Written in accessible language with short, actionable chapters, it's a valuable resource for anyone grappling with depression or supporting someone who is.​Purchase the book:Amazon – Wrestling Depression Is Not for Wimps🖤 To Every Listener: You Are Not BrokenWe all wear masks.We all carry things we don’t talk about.Sometimes, just hearing someone say “me too” is enough to make it through another day.Let this episode be that voice.Whether you’re battling dark thoughts or just feeling low and invisible, this is your reminder: there’s no shame in hurting, and no shame in healing.We’re so grateful to Skip for his honesty and to all of you for being here.Together, we can end the silence.Together, we can be better.THE WCCS - TOGETHER AS ONE WE GET IT DONE.🖤~ CJ Aggett & Chris Hooley.WATCH THE INTERVIEW HERE: This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.

We’ve interviewed hundreds of writers on The Writing Community Chat Show, but this one stands out, because our latest guest brings not only writing chops but serious filmmaking cred to the table.In this brand-new public episode, we sat down with Josh Mendoza, the award-winning filmmaker of What Still Remains and now the debut author of the sci-fi noir novel Shadow of the Eternal Watcher.You can now watch the full interview right here on YouTube:Trust us, this one’s worth your time.🎥 Who Is Josh Mendoza?Josh is a Stanford-educated storyteller with an MFA in Film and TV Production from USC’s School of Cinematic Arts. He’s best known for his post-apocalyptic feature film What Still Remains, which earned critical acclaim for its intimate, emotional take on survival and society.But now? He’s taken everything he learned in film and poured it into the written word.His new book, Shadow of the Eternal Watcher, blends noir detective fiction with mind-bending science fiction, delivering a story full of psychological depth, action, and philosophical intrigue.📖 About the BookDuster Raines has demons. Some haunt his dreams. Others? They show him a life he’s never lived, one of wealth, fame, and power. But when a missing person case leads to him being framed and hunted, Raines discovers he has the power to bend spacetime… and that his alternate self may be the one standing in his way.“It’s gritty, it’s smart, it’s cinematic.”💬 What We Talked About in the Interview:Our chat with Josh is split into three powerful rounds:🛣️ Round One: The Road to WritingHow Josh went from screenwriting to directing films, and ultimately to novel writing. The challenges, the crossovers, and why writing a book felt like returning home.📚 Round Two: Shadow of the Eternal WatcherA deep dive into the themes of identity, trauma, and alternate realities. Josh explains how the character of Duster Raines came to life and why the story feels so personal.🧠 Round Three: Community QuestionsWe hit Josh with our signature questions, plus a few wildcards from our amazing live audience.✨ Why You Should WatchThis is more than just an interview, it’s a rare peek behind the curtain of two worlds: independent film and modern publishing.Whether you’re:* A writer curious about storytelling from a director’s POV* A sci-fi reader looking for your next mind-bending book* Or just someone who loves listening to creative minds break down their craft…This episode delivers.❤️ Help Us Grow This ShowIf you loved this conversation, please:* Leave a comment on the video* Share the YouTube link with a fellow reader or writer* Become a free or paid subscriber here on Substack to support the show!Your support allows us to keep bringing on incredible guests like Josh, uncovering the stories behind the storytellers.Thanks for being here. And don’t forget, subscribe, share, and stay creative.👇 Drop your thoughts or questions in the comments, we read every one. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.