True Fiction Project

• S6 Ep 4 - Him

  Welcome 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

  I’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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  18:26
• S6 Ep 2 - Your Heart's Voice

  Hi everyone! I’m thrilled to welcome multi-award-winning children’s book author Renée Greene Murphy to the show this week. Renée is the author of Your Heart's Voice,  one of the first children’s picture books on intuition, which she lovingly dedicated to her younger brother, who tragically passed away in 2022. In this heartfelt episode, Renée shares the inspiration behind her book, how grief shaped its development and the spiritual symbolism woven throughout its pages. We’ll also hear an excerpt from this beautifully written story designed to help children embrace self-awareness and intuition. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation! IN THIS EPISODE:[1:48] Renée shares why she wrote the book[4:23] There were no accessible resources for children on the topic of intuition[7:01] How the book was restructured after the death of her brother[10:13] Where you can get your copy of Your Heart's Voice, [11:54] We hear an excerpt from Your Heart's Voice KEY TAKEAWAYS:In 2018, a New York State-certified school counselor and mother of two noticed a lack of children's picture books on intuition, a vital life tool. With three master’s degrees and 10 years of experience, she was inspired to fill this gap.The tragic loss of Renée’s younger brother in 2022 deeply impacted her, with writing serving as a therapeutic outlet to cope with the shock, anger, and depression of grief.The book incorporates numerous spiritual elements, including angel numbers, symbolic animals like a cardinal, dragonfly, and turtle, and settings like the beach, where the author feels most connected to her intuition—all reflecting themes of guidance, resilience, and celebrating her brother.Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora Reenita is also on Patreon! Check out her link here:https://www.patreon.com/ReenitaFiction Credits:Written by: Renée Greene Murphy Read by: Renée Greene MurphyGUEST RESOURCES:Renée Greene Murphy - WebsiteRenée Greene Murphy - LinkedInRenée Greene Murphy - Business FacebookRenée Greene Murphy - InstagramRenée Greene Murphy - FacebookYour Heart's Voice - AudioYour Heart's Voice - Barnes and NobleHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIOGRAPHY: Renée Greene MurphyMulti-award-winning children’s book, author of Your Heart's Voice, one of the first children’s picture books on intuition. Your Heart's Voice is dedicated to my little brother, who tragically passed in a car accident in 2022. Writing was therapeutic for me during the initial stages of grief, so I ended up dedicating my book to him and adding him as a main character. Jade learns three life lessons throughout the story, and by listening to our heart's voice, she makes the right choice and feels good about herself. Robert, my brother in the story, teaches her that her heart voice is indeed her intuition. Your heart voice is an excellent supplemental tool in any classroom for students ages five and up to help increase self-awareness, self-esteem, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.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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  17:30
• S6 Ep 1 - In Conversation With Artist, Rachana Devidayal

  Welcome to season 6 of the True Fiction Project Podcast! I’m thrilled to start this season off with my dear friend Rachana Devidayal. Rachana is a graphic design artist with a profound connection to her craft and the stories she tells through her work. In this episode, she opens up about her journey—why she chose a path different from her mother’s, how her struggles are reflected in her art and the barriers she’s had to overcome along the way. We also dive into the deep inspiration she draws from the sacred Narmada River, the rituals of Maheshwar, and her ongoing artistic projects. Join us for an insightful conversation about creativity, resilience, and the interplay between art and spirituality.IN THIS EPISODE:[2:01] Rachana shares her background as a graphic design artist and why she felt she needed to follow a different path than her mother[6:49] How her struggles are reflected in her work[13:08] Rachana describes the dams she erects in her heart[15:43] Rachana describes this huge puja, this huge religious ceremony[17:13] Rachana describes a ritual in the town called Maheshwar and her last project, which is still a work in progress[19:28] The inspiration behind Rachana’s focus on the riverKEY TAKEAWAYS:Flowing uniquely east to west, the Narmada River is revered as one of India’s most sacred, believed to cleanse sins with a mere glance. Its deep spiritual significance inspires artistic exploration, with layered mediums reflecting the river’s essence and timeless story.The Narmada River exudes unstoppable feminine energy, defying control despite controversies and environmental impacts. A holy man’s prediction of her resistance was affirmed by early dam failures, symbolizing her enduring vitality and inspiring awe and resilience.Artists often face self-imposed barriers, but awareness enables reinvention and progress. Each success breaks old limitations, though new challenges arise, reflecting growth, persistence, and artistic fulfillment.Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free or become a paid subscriber to watch the video version of this episode and be eligible to receive other extras such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora Reenita is also on Patreon! Check out her link here:https://www.patreon.com/ReenitaGUEST RESOURCES:Rachana Devidayal - WebsiteRachana Devidayal Design - LinkedInRachana Devidayal - Facebook Rachana Devidayal - InstagramHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree BIOGRAPHY: Rachana DevidayalI completed my education at the Cathedral School, Bombay, and earned honors in Graphic Design from the Rhode Island School of Design in 1994. With a passion for print media, I’ve worked on diverse projects for publishing houses, museums, and private clients. I taught art to ISDI School of Design & Innovation students and co-founded Flying Tricycle Workshops in 2016, curating creative programs for children. Reconnecting with fine arts during the pandemic led to my 2023 solo exhibition, Palash & Baadal, inspired by the light and architecture of Mandu. My paper and watercolor works blend structured design, artistic freedom, and vibrant color.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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  22:35
• Revisited - True Fiction Favorites: Faking the Grade

  In this revisited episode of the True Fiction Project Podcast, we are looking back at a True Fiction Fan Favorite episode with actor, writer, and stand up comedian Shenuque Tissera.   He shares his story of how he went from a Doctor of Geography to a Stand Up Comedian. He talks about the expectations his parents had of him after immigrating to the US, and his fear of disappointing them as he faked his graduation and dropped out of graduate school. We hear all about the Art of Killin' It and the other projects he is currently working on. The episode ends with the short story titled, Faking the Grade by Michael Kobzik. In this story we follow an aspiring stand up comedian who officially drops out from becoming a Doctor of Geography but still shows up at his graduation to receive a fake diploma to appease his unaware parents.  IN THIS EPISODE: [1:57] What is Shenuque’s primary career? [2:50] Shenuque walks through his college education path. [11:38] How did Shenuque fake his graduation? [13:10] Shenuque talks about his start as a stand up comedian. [14:53] We hear about the Art of Killin' It. [16:43] How is Quidditch (quadball) actually played? [22:37] What do Shenuque’s parents think of the decisions he has made with his career? [23:50] Shenuque tells us about the Twenty Sided Podcast and his character. [26:36] A short story Faking the Grade by Michael Kobzik. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Follow your heart. Shenuque knew that he wasn’t destined for the graduate school path. Once he followed his heart he was able to find a career that he absolutely loves and is wildly successful at.  Quidditch is a real game that was played at the college level! You can be more than one thing in life! You don’t have to silo yourself into one career, follow your passions and see where you end up.  Fiction Credits: Excerpt written by: Michael Kobsik  BIO: Shenuque is an actor, writer, and stand-up comedian. He portrays 'Jaylen' in the theatrical production of the Art of Killin' It. He's been featured on HBO Max's Human By Orientation. He is also the voice of Yaksha Rah on the Twenty Sided Podcast. You can find him @shenuque on Instagram or @fakeshenuque on TikTok. Shenuque Tissera Website  The Twenty Sided Podcast  Shenuque Tissera's Twitter  Shenuque Tissera's Instagram  Shenuque Tissera's TikTok  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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  35:51

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