Audiobook Connection - Behind the Scenes with the Creative Teams

In this captivating episode of Audiobook Connection, host Becky Parker Geist sits down with sibling authors Jessica Beebe and Matt Barrows to explore the behind-the-scenes story of their gripping crime thriller, Muddy the Water. What began as a decades-old idea from Matt—sparked by a spooky drive to a small South Carolina newspaper—evolved into a suspense-filled novel brought to life by both siblings during the pandemic. Listeners will hear how a real-life job in journalism inspired a fictional identity theft, how a shrimp-boat-captain-coroner shaped crucial plot details, and how Jess and Matt navigated everything from sibling squabbles to bird species accuracy. With alternating perspectives of a cunning fugitive, determined detective, and ambitious young reporter, Muddy the Water is not only a tightly plotted thriller but a deep dive into the theme of identity—and whether anyone ever truly reveals their real self. Plus, discover the creative process behind the audiobook, narrated from three unique points of view, and their dream of adapting the story into a television series. It's a lively, funny, and inspiring look at family collaboration, creative persistence, and the unexpected paths stories take to find their voice. 🎙️ Listen here to Muddy the Water on AMPlify Audiobooks. 

Join Becky and Katiedid Langrock, author of the humorous picture book for parents, "For F**k's Sake, Ask Your Dad." Audiobook voiced by the incredible comedian and actress, Laura Silverman. The book was promoted online by Sarah Silverman and received a "Get it!" Kirkus Review, calling it "A heartfelt, funny, and unforgettable book of parenting humor."

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Martha Retallick—author, photographer, water harvesting advocate, and host of the newly launched Water Harvesting 101 podcast. Martha shares her journey from Pennsylvania to the arid landscapes of Tucson, Arizona, and how that move sparked her passion for sustainable gardening, urban ecology, and conserving every drop of water. We explore the inspiration behind her books City Nature and Water Harvesting 101, how her backyard became a photography classroom, and how those experiences transformed into an engaging audiobook. Martha also opens up about working with professional narrator Lynn Norris, adapting visual content for audio, and why she chose Amplify Audiobooks for distribution.   #WaterHarvesting #SustainableLiving#RainwaterHarvesting #GrayWaterSystem #DroughtSolutions #EcoFriendlyTips #UrbanGardening #ClimateSmart #AudiobookProduction #IndieAuthors #SelfPublishing #AudiobookTips #NarrationMatters #BookMarketing #AudiobookMarketing      

In this episode, I’m excited to share a special live Q&A session from earlier today. If you’re an author looking to produce and market your audiobook effectively, this episode is packed with valuable insights! We’ll explore an overview of the audiobook production process, starting with the critical pre-production phase—casting decisions, manuscript preparation, and crafting a compelling listener experience. We’ll also dive into the importance of distribution strategies and why conscious marketing choices matter for both authors and listeners. Topics Covered: The importance of pre-production and manuscript preparation Choosing the right narrator: self-narration vs. hiring a professional Best practices for recording and editing Common industry pricing models and cost-saving tips Distribution strategies beyond Audible, including Amplify Audiobooks Engaging listeners through strategic marketing Join me as we break down the key elements of audiobook production and discover how to create an exceptional audiobook experience that resonates with your audience.   #AudiobookProduction #SelfPublishing #IndieAuthors #NarrationTips #BookMarketing #AudiobookIndustry #ProAudioVoices #AmplifyAudiobooks #PublishingSuccess    

Join author Shari Leid on a journey of connection and transformation as she shares the story behind Table for Fifty-One: Lessons Learned from Sharing Meals Across America. Abandoned in a cardboard box in Seoul and later adopted by Japanese-American parents, Sherry embarks on a cross-country adventure to challenge her father’s fears of being unwelcome. Through shared meals in all 50 states, she reconnects with people from her past and meets strangers who redefine the meaning of belonging. Hosted by Becky Parker Geist, this podcast explores reinvention, friendship, and the science of human connection over food. Get your copy of Table for Fifty-One on Amplify Audiobooks https://animperfectlyperfectlife.com/

Author of The Phoenix Elite series, C.T. Clark, joins host Becky Parker Geist for a discussion of the full cast audiobook of book one in the series. This book is written from seven international character points of view. Inspired by teaching in an international high school, C.T. partnered with Pro Audio Voices to produce an audiobook that features pro narrators that span the globe. What’s been most surprising to C.T. about the process? Join us to find out!   Click here to get the audiobook!  

In the dark days of winter await time for reflection. Reconnecting with your passion and purpose, with your unique gifts, is a great way to live and to know what’s next for you in your journey. Why write a book? Why create an audiobook? Something inside you, whether conscious or not, moves you to take these steps. There is power in knowing what impact you are here to make. Join Becky for this powerful message and reconnect with the fire in your belly.

The making of The Special Guest, A Christmas Story by Lee Allen, has truly been a family affair and blessing. Lee first published the book 30 years ago, illustrated by his wife Donna Campbell Allen.   Click here to get the Audiobook    

Sally A.K.A Detective Writer is a self-published author, blogger, and podcaster who released her first book in 2021 and is currently working on a second book and the audio version of The Doctor. She first gained her inspiration to begin writing as a young child learning English. Join host Becky Parker Geist and Sally, author/podcaster, who is  just starting her journey of recording her own audiobook, to hear about some of the challenges authors may face when narrating their own fiction. Check out her podcast for when the tables are flipped and she interviews Becky. Learn more about Sally Barrilla at detectivewriter.com.

This episode dives into the behind-the-scenes journey of creating the audiobook Freeing Teresa, a powerful story about a family's fight to rescue their sister from an unjust placement in a nursing home. Host Becky Parker Geist and creative collaborators Franke and Billiam James discuss the emotional intensity of the narrative, the importance of authentic representation in storytelling, and the challenges of turning real-life events into an award-winning full-cast audiobook. Through dramatic family conflict, vivid characters, and raw emotional moments, Freeing Teresa sheds light on systemic injustices affecting individuals with disabilities, resonating with listeners worldwide. The James duo also reflects on their creative process, from detailed audio recordings of real-life events to casting decisions that bring the story to life in a unique and impactful way. Explore the interplay of advocacy, storytelling, and the transformative power of audio in this inspiring episode.

Beverly Scott, author of Sarah's Secret: A Western Tale of Betrayal and Forgiveness, narrated her own memoir in a professional studio. Join Bev and Becky for a conversation about the inspiration for the researching and crafting of her book and her experience recording in a pro studio. What was the most surprising aspect of the process? Join us to find out! Learn more at https://www.bevscottauthor.com/ Get the audiobook today at: AMPlify Audiobooks

Are you an author planning to record your own audiobook? Or maybe a narrator new to the industry? Get some tips to help you succeed! What do you need to figure out before you get started? What are some of the most challenging aspects of audiobook narration? Focused primarily on performance elements, Becky also covers some important tips regarding your studio set up.

Thought leaders with an audiobook and podcast have powerful opportunities to exponentially grow their following and reach their big goals with an integrated approach to audiobook and podcast production, distribution and marketing. Get inspired as you hear how the pieces of this puzzle can fit together for success in reaching your biggest goals. Learn how working with an existing team can make a huge difference in your success, from communication to implementation. This is a MUST listen episode!

Robert E. Cook, author of the Mahdi, a techno national security thriller and the 4th book in the Cooch series of national security thrillers, shares his background, including his experience writing the first in the series during a typhoon on a cruise in Vietnam, his experience of serving in the military, and his interest in tactics and strategy. "The Mahdi," sparked by an article in The Economist about Israel confiscating land from Muslim citizens, provides a unique perspective through his protagonist's lens. Becky and Bob also discuss the decision to use a full cast for the audio book and the challenges of casting actors with appropriate accents for different roles, particularly when actors play multiple roles. Take a listen! Learn more at RobertCookNovels.com Get your audiobook of The Mahdi on AMPlify Audiobooks!

If you’ve ever used the common phrase “part of me wants to do this, but part of me want to do that” then you’ve experienced the conflicts that can arise between the inner parts of us. Coach, trainer and author Paul Wyman shares how his audiobook Parts of Me provides a better understanding and path forward with self-compassion. Though originally written for other coaches, the exercises and information in this audiobook have value for us all. The audiobook includes parts narrated by the author and the bulk of it by a professional. Join us! Learn more about Paul Wyman  Get the audiobook at AMPlify 

Ron Turker, author of The Wandering Jew of St. Salacious. Ron started his career in med school and standup comedy around the same time. After feeling a need to send up a red flag, his novel became his vehicle. When his fans started calling for his audiobook in his voice, Ron stepped up to the challenge. Learn about his biggest surprises along the way, and what’s coming up next. Learn more about Ron Turker. Get the audiobook at AMPlify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What difference can it make if you do a full and robust pre-production process for your audiobook? It can make a HUGE difference! Not just in terms of organization and efficiency, though those can be significant benefits, but also in terms of how successful your audiobook can be in reaching your own goals for it. Becky Parker Geist covers all the key points you’ll need to attend to as you think about or enter into pre-production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you had those wishful thoughts that maybe you can just get the audiobook (or book) produced or published and then it will just sell? Do you drag your feet when it comes to marketing? Wondering if there’s a way to make marketing easier? This episode is for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The cast, author and director of Pirates of Sausalito by John Byrne Barry share the experience of producing as an audiobook what started out originally as a stage play. Host Becky Parker Geist and author John Byrne Barry played all the roles in this historically-inspired comedy, with Becky directing. Hear about the journey of this project in which two narrators, in this case also director and author, bring this story to life. Learn more about John Byrne Barry Get the audiobook today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When does an audiobook work best with multiple voices? What’s the difference between a full cast audiobook and a multi-voiced audiobook? Why would you choose one of these options for your own audiobook? Audiobook expert Becky Parker Geist dives into the details of when and why you might want to consider one of these options. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices