True Fiction Project

• S7 Ep 1 - Not Quite

  A queer South Asian woman’s story takes center stage at the start of season 7 of the True Fiction Project! I'm Reenita Hora, your host, diving into the groundbreaking world of queer storytelling with writer, comedian, and filmmaker Aneri Shah. We'll explore her journey from pre-med student to documentary filmmaking, her Eyebrow Queens podcast, and her television comedy pilot she’s written called, Not Quite, which is about queer reinvention. Aneri discusses creating LGBTQ+ content that challenges cultural norms and the absence of South Asian women filmmakers creating authentic bisexual coming-out stories. This episode features a concept teaser called Not Quite, demonstrating emotional authenticity in creating authentic LGBTQ+ content about cultural identity and women's friendship dynamics.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How queer South Asian representation is breaking new ground in television through comedy writing and independent film production that centers around South Asian women filmmakersThe creative journey from documentary filmmaking about ER physicians during the pandemic to developing LGBTQ+ television pilots that explore bisexual coming-out stories and cultural identity explorationThe power of podcast creation as a tool for discovering your voice and building community around queer South Asian representation and non-conformist life pathsHow creative reinvention happens gradually through embracing uncertainty, shedding labels, and creating LGBTQ+ content that explores women's friendship dynamics and self-actualizationSubscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free at https://substack.com/@reenitahora and to her YouTube channel to watch the video version of this episode! https://www.youtube.com/@reenymalCheck out her website to stay up-to-date on events, book releases and more! https://reenita.com/TIMESTAMPS:  00:00 Aneri Shah, a South Asian woman filmmaker creating LGBTQ+ content about flawed, funny women and her creative reinvention journey from pre-med student to documentary filmmaking 03:52 Creating I'm Doing My Job documentary about ER physicians during the COVID-19 lockdown09:07 Discussion of Not Quite, LGBTQ+ comedy pilot exploring bisexual coming out stories, cultural identity exploration, and shedding labels in your thirties18:30 The importance of emotional authenticity in queer storytelling and representing South Asian American experience beyond parental relationships22:45 Listen to Aneri Shah's concept teaser called Not Quite.KEY TAKEAWAYS: Queer South Asian representation in media is virtually nonexistent for women—while there are examples with men like A Nice Indian Boy, there are no fully realized queer South Asian women characters on screen, making LGBTQ+ television shows. Emotional authenticity is the true superpower in queer storytelling—it's not just about putting a South Asian woman on screen, but making audiences feel her emotions deeplyCreative reinvention and coming out isn't just about sexuality—it's about questioning all the labels and assumptions you've made about yourself, from career paths to life goals, and recognizing that South Asian Women filmmakers can tell stories beyond the lens of parental approvalWomen's friendship dynamics shift dramatically when one friend stops performing and the other continues—exploring how South Asian American experience friendships evolve when someone begins self-actualizing is a universal theme that resonates across all women's relationshipsABOUT THE GUESTS: Aneri Shah is a writer, comedian, and filmmaker obsessed with telling stories about flawed, funny women - because perfect is boring. She hosts Eyebrow Kweenz, a salon-style podcast where guests blurt out their truths, is developing Not Quite, a comedy pilot about her queer reinvention, and directed I’m Doing My Job, a feature documentary about women of color ER physicians during the pandemic. She's adept at transforming her trauma into comedy with heart.Aneri Shah - Instagramtiktok.com/@kweenaneriInstagram.com/eyebrowkweenzEyebrow Kweenz - TikTokEyebrow Kweenz | Podcast on SpotifySupport 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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• Season 6 - Female Indian Artists Mashup

  Female Indian artists shine in this powerful mash-up episode from Season Six of the True Fiction Project! I’m Reenita Hora, your host, honoring the voices of female Indian artists who use writing to explore identity, culture, and creativity. From the sacred symbolism of the Narmada River to the reflections of Indian mixed-media artists like Laila Khan Furniturewalla, these stories reveal how words become art. We’ll explore themes of Indian cultural identity, resilience in art, and the historical depth of the Vermilion Harvest novel, shaped by the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy. This collection of conversations of fiction and historical fiction highlights the brilliance of female Indian artists who write to empower and inspire.  What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How female Indian artists use storytelling to share culture, resilience, and creativityThe spiritual inspiration behind Narmada River rituals and its influence on artistic writingInsights from Indian mixed media artists like Laila Khan Furniturewalla and her creative journeyHow the Vermilion Harvest novel explores history through fiction, including the Jallianwala Bagh tragedyWhy celebrating Indian cultural identity through literature empowers communities and future generationsSubscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free at https://substack.com/@reenitahora and to her YouTube channel to watch the video version of this episode! https://www.youtube.com/@reenymalCheck out her website to stay up-to-date on events, book releases and more! https://reenita.com/TIMESTAMPS:  00:00 Introduction to the True Fiction Project, focusing on female Indian artists from Season Six02:15 Rachana Devidayal explains the creativity that flowed from the sacred Narmada River and other elements of her heritage06:45 Laila Khan Furniturewalla, daughter of Pharaoh Khan, is an Indian mixed media artist who focuses on heritage and art. Hear Laila O Laila  14:23 Traci DeForge interviews Reenita’s publisher about her novel Vermillion Harvest Playtime at the Bagh, discussing how real life can inspire historical fiction 17:00 Excerpt from Vermillion Harvest Playtime at the Bagh about forbidden love and the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy, read by Reenita HoraKEY TAKEAWAYS: The introduction to the True Fiction Project highlights female Indian artists, storytelling, and Indian cultural identityRachana Devidayal shares her journey as a female Indian artist, inspired by the sacred Narmada River, rituals and resilience in art💎 Laila Khan Furniturewalla, an Indian mixed media artist, reflects on heritage, creativity, and the legacy of female Indian artists💎 Exploration of the Vermilion Harvest novel, its connection to the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy, and the power of female Indian artists in historical fictionABOUT THE GUESTS: Rachana Devidayal - Website  Laila Khan Furniturewalla - WebsiteVermilion Harvest: Playtime at the BaghRESOURCES MENTIONED: Reenita Malhotra Hora - WebsiteSupport 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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• Season 6 - Inspiring Stories of Hope and Love Mashup

  Hope, loyalty, and love shine in this heartwarming mash-up from season six of the True Fiction Project! I’m Reenita Hora, your host, sharing uplifting stories that remind us of resilience, family bonds, and the power of kindness. We’ll hear from Mark Steven Porro and his touching memoir, A Cup of Tea on the Commode, capturing the humor and love in caregiving for his mother. Then, Brian Gotta brings us Him, a moving tale of a dog’s devotion and search for his best friend. Each story blends real-life inspiration with fiction that stirs the heart. Tune in today for interview highlights and unforgettable storytelling. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How inspirational stories of hope, loyalty, and love can strengthen family bonds and inspire resilience in everyday lifeWhy caregiving stories like Mark Steven Porro’s memoir highlight the humor, challenges, and rewards of showing kindness to loved onesBrian Gotta captures themes of devotion, trust, and emotional storytelling in his dog fiction story, Him.The way the True Fiction Project transforms real-life inspiration into fiction inspired by real life, creating uplifting and unforgettable narrativesSubscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free at https://substack.com/@reenitahora and to her YouTube channel to watch the video version of this episode! https://www.youtube.com/@reenymalCheck out her website to stay up-to-date on events, book releases and more! https://reenita.com/TIMESTAMPS:  00:00 Introduction to the True Fiction Project and how inspirational stories are born from real-life inspiration02:00 Mark shares his journey on how he began to be the caregiver for his mom in his memoir, filled with love, humor, and family bonds, in A Cup of Tea on the Commode03:17 A touching emotional storytelling scene highlights hope and resilience through children, bringing joy to Genevieve05:02 Brian discusses his self-publishing journey and writing dog lover fiction rooted in loyalty and devotion11:52 Reenita invites listeners to share great stories they would like to see featured on the True Fiction ProjectKEY TAKEAWAYS: The opening of the True Fiction Project highlights how inspirational stories, real-life inspiration, and emotional storytelling connect to human experiences.Mark Steven Porro’s memoir showcases caregiving stories, family bonds, and the power of love in difficult times.Brian Gotta shares his self-publishing journey, creating dog lover fiction that blends loyalty, hope, and devotion.Excerpt from Him delivers an uplifting story, trust, and kindness through the heartfelt eyes of a dog.ABOUT THE GUESTS: Mark Steven Porro - LinkedInBrian Gotta - LinkedInRESOURCES MENTIONED: A Cup of Tea on the Commode - WebsiteHim - BookSupport 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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• Season 6 - Crime Thriller Mashup

  Crime thrillers, suspense, and twists await in this gripping crime thriller mash-up review of season six of the True Fiction Project! I’m Reenita Hora, your host, diving into the thrilling world of crime thrillers with excerpts from talented fiction authors. We’ll explore Crossroads by Rhonda Parker Taylor, a novel about a young man’s haunting choices after a life-altering tragedy. Then, Shakedown by Armand Rosamilia, where a crew member’s mistake risks everything. Finally, The Old Town Horror by Ed Moser uncovers a bloody investigation in historic Virginia. Each story weaves fiction inspired by real-life drama. Tune in today for interview snippets and stories.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:            How crime thrillers blend suspense and real-life inspirationThe power of twists in shaping gripping narrativesHow authors use fiction to reflect personal and historical dramaInsights into the creative process behind storytellingSubscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free at https://substack.com/@reenitahora and to her YouTube channel to watch the video version of this episode! https://www.youtube.com/@reenymalCheck out her website to stay up-to-date on events, book releases and more! https://reenita.com/TIMESTAMPS:  00:00: Reenita Hora introduces a blend of crime thriller, non-fiction interviews, and fiction stories that explore life experiences.01:45: Rhonda shares how crime thrillers like Crossroads use suspense to highlight the impact of choices and drama in shaping lives.07:15: Armand discusses the market for crime thrillers and their appeal to readers craving twists and thrillers.15:15: Ed Moser reveals the scandalous history of Lafayette Square, tying crime thrillers to real secrets and drama.20:39  Reenita invites listeners to share great stories they would like to see featured on True Fiction ProjectKEY TAKEAWAYS: Crossroads by Rhonda Parker Taylor: Choices lead to irreversible drama and trauma, urging readers to reflect on life's pivotal decisions before they spiral into suspense and tragedy.Shakedown by Armand Rosamilia: In the gritty world of crime thrillers, a single oversight can seal your fate, highlighting the deadly consequences of mistakes in high-stakes criminal operations.The Old Town Horror by Ed Moser: Historic locales hide layers of secrets and violence, where investigating murder unearths the eerie persistence of the past in modern thrillers.ABOUT THE GUESTS: Rhonda Parker Taylor (@rhondaparkertaylor) • Instagram photos and videosArmand Rosamilia (@armand_rosamilia) • Instagram photos and videosEd Moser - LinkedInRESOURCES MENTIONED: THE OLD TOWN HORROR: Murder and Theft in America’s Most Historic LocaleSuspense Thriller Crossroads by Rhonda Parker Taylor ShakeDown (First Coast Thriller Series): 9798401775757: Rosamilia, Armand: BooksSupport 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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• Season 6 - Children's Book Authors Mashup

  Welcome to this week’s True Fiction Project Podcast. We are in between seasons and in this special episode, we are mashing up three talented children’s book authors from Season 6, each bringing unique stories inspired by personal experiences. These episodes include Your Heart’s Voice, Leave Your Mark On The World, and The Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact: Tales from the Clinic. All three stories touch on different heartstrings: handling grief, boosting self-esteem, and following your dreams. Tune in today for interview snippets and stories, and find the link to the full episodes in the notes below. Let’s jump right in!Also, Reenita is giving away free copies of her children’s book, Sundri and Mundri’s Lohri Adventure! Email her at [email protected] or reach out on Instagram at @reenita_storyteller.IN THIS EPISODE:(00:30) Reenita shares information about her children’s book, titled Sundri and Mundri’s Lohri Adventure, and she is offering free copies! Email her at [email protected] or reach out on Instagram at @reenita_storyteller(01:32) Interview snippet with Renee Green Murphy. She shares how grief from her brother’s 2022 loss inspired Your Heart’s Voice(03:30) Excerpt from Your Heart’s Voice by Renee Green Murphy(08:53) Interview snippet with Erica Silverman discussing her daughter’s self-esteem issues, inspiring Leave Your Mark On The World(09:40) Excerpt from Leave Your Mark On The World (12:38) Interview snippet with Vicky McGrath. She shares how her daughter’s veterinary dreams inspired The Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact: Tales from the Clinic(15:06) Excerpt from The Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact: Tales from the Clinic KEY TAKEAWAYS:Renee Green Murphy's Your Heart's Voice uses grief and intuition to craft a children's book that promotes self-awareness, helping young readers navigate emotions through a heartfelt story inspired by personal loss.Erica Silverman's Leave Your Mark On The World inspires self-esteem and perseverance in children's literature, showing a marker's journey to become permanent through kindness, resonating with young readers.Vicky McGrath's The Dragon And The Mysterious Artifact: Tales from the Clinic brings a veterinary clinic to life in a middle-grade graphic novel, using a hometown setting to engage readers with themes of friendship and aspiration.Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free! https://substack.com/@reenitahora FICTION CREDITS:Your Heart's Voice A short story written and read by Renee Green MurphyYour Heart's Voice - Website Renee Greene Murphy - WebsiteRenee Greene Murphy - LinkedInLeave Your Mark on the WorldA short story written and read by Erica SilvermanErica Silverman - WebsiteErica Silverman - LinkedInThe Dragon And The Mysterious Artifact: Tales from the Clinic A short story written and read by Vicky McGrathVicky McGrath - WebsiteVicky McGrath - LinkedInThe Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact: Tails from the Clinic: Book 1RESOURCES:S6 Ep 2 - Your Heart's Voice–True Fiction Project S6 Ep 3 - Leave Your Mark on the World - True Fiction Project S6 Ep 7 - The Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact: Tales from the Clinic - True Fiction ProjectHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree 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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