“Every Serious Writer Needs to be Reading Craft of Writing Books Every Day!”... Renowned Southern Author Rhonda Browning Puts All Writers on Notice

Get comfy for this jam-packed, fun episode with award-winning author Rhonda Browning White as she spills the inside scoop on her debut novel, Filling the Big Empty. Inspired by her earlier short stories, this story follows a young couple navigating life’s highs and lows, from the coal mines and vineyards of West Virginia to the North Carolina Piedmont. Rhonda and the hosts dive into the magic of storytelling—from Hemingway’s famous flash fiction to the art of giving readers just enough to set their imagination loose.

This episode is packed with references! We've done the work for you with shoutouts to fantastic authors—check out Lee Smith, Bonnie Jo Campbell, Robert Olmstead, Stewart O’Nan, Russell Banks, and North Carolina’s own Ron Rash. Rhonda also shares her admiration for legacy writers like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Flannery O’Connor.

Robert chimes in with an example of six-word storytelling, like Hemingway's famous short story Baby Shoes: “For Sale. Baby shoes. Never worn.” Rhonda drops some wisdom on authentic writing (hint: when adding research, think a sprinkle of salt, not a pound!). They explore the quirks of the craft, like the art of flash fiction and the intimacy of first-person narration.

Rhonda’s take on good writing? Make sure to include redemption, conflict, authenticity, suspense, and setting that lets readers discover new places. Keep growing your craft, put in the work, and who knows, you might just follow in Rhonda’s footsteps. That’s an admirable goal, folks!

BOOK LAUNCH PARTY: If you’re listening before mid-November, catch Rhonda’s big Book Launch Party (free and open to the public!) on Nov. 16th at 3 p.m. at Olde Hickory Station in Hickory, North Carolina. She’s also planning additional readings at vineyards and bookstores across WV, NC, SC, and FL. Keep an eye on her website for event details!

Find Rhonda’s website here

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Hickory’s favorite coffee spot sponsors REDPUBPOD, Taste Full Beans. Look for Rhonda (and often Patty!) on Saturday mornings, coffee & bagel in hand. Swing by and say hi—they’re always up for a chat!

Taste Full Beans Coffee, Tea & Café 29 2nd Street NW, Hickory, North Carolina. (828) 325-0108

Your RedPubPod hosts in this episode are:

Robert Canipe, Publisher, RedHawk Publications

Patty Thompson, Acquisitions Editor, RedHawk Publications

Buy all your Redhawk Publications books here!

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Dr. Hinshaw Gets to the Root of Redhawk Publications...Its Humble Beginnings and Its Continued Mission that’s Growing Exponentially

Go ahead, laugh it up. Redhawk Publications might be the Isle of Misfit Toys, but guess what? We wear that title like a badge of honor—and we deliver! As we close in on our ninth anniversary (yeah, nine years!) and nearly 200 books published, our little pirate ship is crushing it, taking names, and making waves in the literary world.

In this episode, Catawba Valley Community College President Dr. Garrett Hinshaw takes the lead and tackles the big questions with the college’s Redhawk Publications staff that everyone’s been dying to ask. Whether you've been a champion of Redhawk Publications since Day One or just stumbled onto this crazy ride, this episode will fill in the gaps of how we started, what we do, and how we do it.

Here’s the deal: We collaborate, brainstorm, and add a solid dose of creativity and humor while respecting each other (mostly). That’s how this dream team keeps moving forward. Every year, we’re picking up more fans and readers—not just locally but all over the state, the country, and, yep, around the world.

This episode's a bit longer than usual, but hey, it’s packed with a killer story about how we blend intrapreneurship, literature, collaboration, creativity, and good ol’ return on investment. Tune in—you’ll be glad you listened!

REDHAWK PUBLICATIONS HOST:

Garrett Hinshaw, PhD - President, Catawba Valley Community College

GUESTS:

Richard Eller, Executive Director RedHawk Publications

Robert Canipe, Publisher, RedHawk Publications

Patty Thompson, Acquisitions Editor, RedHawk Publications

And buy all your Redhawk Publications books here!

HEY, Y’ALL (Once again!) ….RP has a sponsor!

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Great coffee, food, and Redhawk Publications books, too! Be sure to tell the fine folks at TFB that you heard about them from RedPubPod!

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David Dickson’s short story collection, “Down to the Root", is an homage to a life richly lived. It makes sense: the author has spent a lifetime collecting people and developing stories. And the folks he meets along the way are incorporated into vibrant characters you can’t forget. The RedPubPod crew had a great time interviewing this clever North Carolina author in July to discuss the impetus of his writing as well as his writing process.

David's childhood in North Carolina and summers in Texas all come into play. His stories are universal but have a unique Southern and Appalachian vibe.

We know you will enjoy this collection, so just go and get “Down to the Root” here!

And buy all your Redhawk Publications books at: https://redhawkpublications.com

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Hosts:

Robert Canipe, Publisher, RedHawk Publications

Patty Thompson, Acquisitions Editor, RedHawk Publications

Tim Peeler, Chief Editor, Redhawk Publications

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Grab your favorite artisanal coffee, hit play, and settle in for an inspiring chat with Western Pennsylvania's poetic gem, Jay Orlando! Hailing from a small Appalachian town east of Pittsburgh, Jay's journey is as rich and complex as the rolling hills he grew up in. This episode is a deep dive into the life of a trans man who turned his trials into triumphs—and penned it all down in his stunning poetry collection, “A Tangled Lineage.”

From being outed in high school to navigating family dynamics and transitioning in his late 20s, Jay's story is a rollercoaster of resilience and a whole lot of heart. You'll hear how he found acceptance from his early 60s father and 94-year-old grandma, tied the knot with the love of his life, and now shares his wisdom in a small town he has zero intentions of leaving. That's right! It DOES get better but on your own terms. Jay's not going anywhere, and Indiana, PA will be better for it!

This is not just a podcast—it's a lesson in the power of acceptance, love, and the beautiful mess of being human in a complicated world.

So, get ready to be schooled in the best way possible!

Your hosts for this episode are, Robert Canipe, Publisher, RedHawk Publications, and Patty Thompson, Acquisitions Editor, RedHawk Publications

Check out Jay’s book, “A Tangled Lineage,” here!

Reside in Indiana, PA? Mark your calendars for a not-to-be-missed event: Jay Orlando's book release on Tuesday, June 18th, from 5 pm to 8 pm at Spaghetti Benders, 563 Philadelphia St, Indiana, PA. Be there to celebrate the culmination of his poetic journey and show your support for this local talent.

And buy all your Redhawk Publications books here:

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What a fun episode we have in store for you today! We're thrilled to welcome Redhawk Publications director, Richard Eller, and his wife, co-author, Claudia Ward as our special guests! Tim Peeler, the chief editor at Redhawk Publications, moderates the conversation as we delve into the captivating world of their latest book, "Tell Us, Marcellus."

Set against the backdrop of Western Piedmont North Carolina History, this book is the second installment in a series focused on the Harper House nestled in Downton Hickory. Richard Eller takes us on a journey through time, recounting the lives of the families who once called this historic residence home.

But what sets this episode apart is Claudia's meticulous research, bringing to life the voice of a Victorian woman like never before. Through her dedication, we uncover the remarkable story of Elizabeth Camp Denison Rutherford, a woman of privilege and intellect who fearlessly navigated the conventions of her time. Who knew she'd even dare to secure a prenuptial agreement, a rarity in those days, let alone initiated by a woman?

Meanwhile, Richard paints a vivid portrait of Marcellus Thornton, a man of many talents and quirks, whose colorful life and marriage to Elizabeth provide endless intrigue. From his journalistic endeavors to his knack for spending Elizabeth's fortune, Marcellus's tale is nothing short of a fun engaging read.

It's clear that Claudia and Richard poured their hearts and souls into crafting this compelling narrative, and we're fortunate to witness their boundless enthusiasm firsthand. "Tell Us, Marcellus" is more than just a book; it's a treasure trove of insights into a bygone era, shedding light on the complexities of love, ambition, and history. So sit back, relax, and join us as we embark on this remarkable journey through time.

Get your copy of the book here

Buy all your Redhawk Publications books here

REDHAWK PUBLICATIONS HOSTS:

Richard Eller, Executive Director -- Redhawk Publications

Tim Peeler, Chief Editor -- Redhawk Publications

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If it is April, it is National Poetry Month! Welcome to this auspicious April episode of RedPubPod as we have a chat with guest and poet, Ms. Beth Copeland. "Shibori Blue - Thirty-six Views of The Peak" is Beth's fourth published collection.

It was great having Beth in our studio today as we discussed many things, including her travels as a youth with her missionary parents. Born in Japan, Beth also traveled to India and spent most of her adult life in the Midwest and in the Carolinas.

As Beth says herself, the mountains are in her DNA, and so it is no surprise that she sees comparisons between "The Peak" which is the tallest mountain located in North Carolina's Ashe County, and Japan's Mt. Fuji. Her most recent collection is an ode to The Peak and Mt Fuji and is written in "Tanka" format. Listeners will learn the definition of Tanka as well as her inspiration, early 19th century artist, Katsushika Hokusai. The photos that accompany each poem are of The Peak in all four seasons.

You’ll hear Beth read some of her poems, too. You'll hear some discussion on poetry and spoken word and what is the future of poetry. Fascinating discussion from a unique woman.

Get your copy of the book here

Buy all your Redhawk Publications books here

Please FOLLOW, SHARE, LIKE & SUBSCRIBE to RedPubPod to show your commitment to literacy because we live in a world that seems to be indifferent to reading.

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REDHAWK PUBLICATIONS HOSTS:

Richard Eller, Executive Director -- Redhawk Publications

Robert Canipe, Publisher -- Redhawk Publications

Patricia Thompson, Acquisition Editor -- Redhawk Publications

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Welcome to our March 2024 edition of RedPubPod! Just when you think, ‘can they keep doing these podcasts?’ Redhawk Publications is here to say… “YUP!”

Today our guest is Marion, NC poet, Julia Nunnally Duncan. Having written 11 books, Redhawk Publications is proud to publish her newest poetry collection, “When Time Was Suspended".

Not unlike many of our Appalachian-based authors, Julia’s poetry has the ‘Western NC Mountain’ stamp on it. What makes this collection truly unique, however, is that not only covers her family’s lore in poetic form, but it always unapologetically displays the grittier side of mountain life. An entire section of the book contains ekphrastic poetry that reflects on photographs of injured soldiers during the US Civil War. You have to admit, that’s a step beyond! And, yet Julia pulls it off! Reading her historical-based poetry you are transported to another time. You have empathy for the injured and oftentimes time physically disfigured young men. You’ll hear Julia read some of her poems, too.

Julia is a delightful guest and we look forward to hearing the rest of her stories in the years to come.

Get your copy of “When Time Was Suspended" here:

Robert Canipe, Publisher -- Redhawk Publications

Richard Eller, Executive Director -- Redhawk Publications

Patricia Thompson, Acquisition Editor -- Redhawk Publications

Buy all your Redhawk Publications books here!

Please FOLLOW, SHARE, LIKE & SUBSCRIBE to RedPubPod to show your commitment to literacy because we live in a world that seems to be indifferent to reading.

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Hey folks, it's that time again – new month, new author, and you guessed it, another episode of RedPubPod! We're hanging out at Redhawk Publications in the Foothills of Western North Carolina. On a clear day, you can catch a glimpse of the Appalachian Mountains right in our backyard. Many of our authors are all about those mountain vibes, putting pen to paper to spill the beans on their hometown love.

Today, we have a writer who turned his upbringing into a down-to-earth memoir. Author Cecil Willis boasts an illustrious academic background, but his book puts a spotlight on his deep Appalachian roots. In his book published by Redhawk Publications, titled "Hillbilly Odyssey," Cecil shares what it was like to grow up in a less complex time in a Small Mountain Mill Town – which just happens to be the subtitle of his book. Initially written to provide an alternative view of Appalachian life following the fanfare J.D. Vance received for his book, "Hillbilly Elegy," Dr. Willis goes on to share how you can go home again; it’s just different.

Listen to the author as he discusses what it’s like to have a mountain upbringing and how the values and ethics instilled in him have served him well on his journey through life. For those with sociology backgrounds, Dr. Willis offers a perspective on living, working, and raising a family in a true old-time company town, and he explores how these towns are faring in the 21st century

His writing process, particularly with Redhawk Publications, is explored. Dr. Willis received a 'kind reject,' which means, 'We like what you have written, but you need a little more work to connect with readers.' Redhawk Publications issues this kind of rejection for manuscripts they are on the fence about. Undeterred and unphased, Dr. Willis delved deeper and enlisted the services of an exceptional editor, Tom Rash. He resubmitted his manuscript, and it was accepted for publication the second time. Ever resilient, these mountain folks!

Cecil lives in Madison County in the town of Alexander in Madison County, North Carolina. The book might say Alexander County. Our bad! Just strike that out, would you? (Where is our PROOFREADER!?!) 

Dr. Willis proved to be a delightful guest that we hope gets to tell his engaging, as well as educational, life story to many!

RedPubPod #029 hosts are:

Robert Canipe, Publisher -- Redhawk Publications

Richard Eller, Executive Director -- Redhawk Publications

Patricia Thompson, Acquisition Editor -- Redhawk Publications

Get your copy of "Hillbilly Odyssey" here!

Buy all your Redhawk Publications books here!

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