Miles Beyond the Page

In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, host Michelle Miles sits down with Aaron Ryan, an award-winning and bestselling author, speaker, workshop presenter, and voice actor whose body of work spans an extraordinary range of genres. From alien invasion epics to dystopian fiction, thrillers, nonfiction, children’s books, and business guides, Aaron’s storytelling career is as prolific as it is diverse.The conversation explores Aaron’s many book worlds—including the bestselling Dissonance alien invasion saga, the End trilogy, sci-fi thrillers like Forecast and The Phoenix Experiment, and his passion for teaching, speaking, and creative entrepreneurship. Michelle and Aaron talk craft, longevity, creative discipline, and what it takes to sustain a writing career across genres and audiences.Based in Washington with his family (and an impressive menagerie of pets), Aaron continues to create, teach, perform, and connect with readers through story in all its forms.🎧 Join Michelle and Aaron for an energetic, insightful conversation about writing widely, building a lasting creative career, and embracing the full spectrum of storytelling.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more author interviews and behind-the-scenes creative conversations on Miles Beyond the Page!ABOUT AARON RYAN:Award-winning and bestselling author, speaker, panelist, workshop presenter and voice actor Aaron Ryan is the prolific author of the bestselling Dissonance 6-book alien invasion saga, the Christian dystopian fiction trilogy The End, the Talisman trilogy, the sci-fi thrillers Forecast, The Slide, and The Phoenix Experiment, the nonfiction books God Is Not Santa and You're Going Straight To Helen (In A Handbasket) and Aaron Ryan presents "A Lyrical Empirical Satirical Miracle," the children's picture books The Ring of Truth, The Sword of Joy and The Book of Power, the business reference books How to Successfully Self-Publish & Promote Your Self-Published Book and The Superhero Anomaly, 6 business books on voiceovers penned under his former stage name (Joshua Alexander), as well as a previous fictional novel, The Omega Room.Aaron has always had a passion for storytelling. Visit his website at https://www.authoraaronryan.com, join his exclusive Facebook group at authoraaronryangroup.com, or check out his store at authoraaronryanstore.com. He lives in Washington with his wife and two sons, along with Macy the dog, Winston the cat, and the finches Inky, Pinky, Blinky & Clyde.WHERE TO FIND HIM:Website | All Social LinksWHERE TO FIND HIS BOOKS:Website | Amazon

In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, host Michelle Miles welcomes Jen Graybeal, an award-winning certified Creativity Coach, editor, and international speaker dedicated to helping authors build both stories and careers that truly fit them.With over eleven years of coaching, workshops, and editing projects, Jen has supported more than a thousand authors through encouraging feedback, collaborative problem-solving, and gently applied tough love. Her work focuses on aligning creativity, mindset, and business so writers can define success on their own terms.Michelle and Jen talk about creativity coaching, overcoming blocks, developing sustainable writing practices, and the mindset shifts that help authors move forward with clarity and confidence. They also touch on Jen’s Books, Business & Mindset podcast and her passion for helping writers feel empowered in both craft and career.🎧 Join Michelle and Jen for an insightful, affirming conversation about creativity, confidence, and building an author life that actually works for you.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more author interviews and creative conversations on Miles Beyond the Page!ABOUT JEN GRAYBEAL:Jen Graybeal (she/her) is dedicated to empowering authors through encouraging feedback, collaborative problem solving and gently-applied tough love. In eleven years of coaching, workshops, and editing projects, she has helped over a thousand authors create stories they are proud of and businesses that align with their individual vision of success. Jen is an award-winning certified Creativity Coach and international speaker with a degree in English, an ever-expanding TBR pile, and a furball assistant that is usually on her lap. Visit her website for client testimonials at www.jentheeditor.com or follow her on social media: @JenTheEditor. Listen to season one of Jen’s Books, Business & Mindset podcast, now available on all your favorite podcast apps. WHERE TO FIND HER:https://www.jentheeditor.com/#JenGraybeal #MilesBeyondThePage #AuthorInterview #WritingPodcast #CreativityCoach #AuthorMindset #WritingCommunity #CreativeCoaching #BooksBusinessMindset #WritingLife #Creativity #MichelleMiles

In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, host Michelle Miles chats with Lori Thorn, a contemporary romance author known for creating immersive stories filled with characters readers want to befriend—and maybe gossip about just a little.The conversation centers on Lori’s book Enchanted Elixirs, exploring the heart of her storytelling, the relationships that drive her novels, and how she builds worlds that feel both cozy and emotionally real. Lori shares insights into her creative process, character dynamics, and what draws her to contemporary romance.Living in Western North Carolina, Lori balances her writing life with time spent with her family, working out, practicing her instruments, and experimenting with vegetarian cooking—all of which find their way into the warmth and authenticity of her stories.🎧 Join Michelle and Lori for a fun, thoughtful conversation about romance, connection, and crafting stories that feel like coming home.ABOUT LORI THORN:Lori Thorn writes contemporary romance that will immerse you in the world. You'll want to be best friends with some characters and tempted to gossip about others. She lives in Western North Carolina. When she’s not engaging in bookish activities, she can be found hanging with her amazing family, working out, practicing my instruments, or making vegetarian meals.WHERE TO FIND HER:Website | TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | NewsletterWHERE TO FIND HER BOOKS:Amazon & KU | Website | B&N | Audible

In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with Dawn Chartier, a contemporary and paranormal romance author celebrated for her emotionally rich stories, compelling characters, and immersive worlds.With a background in construction, Dawn brings a unique attention to detail to her writing—crafting vivid settings that readers can instantly step into. Her romance novels blend heartfelt emotion with suspense and supernatural intrigue, earning her a dedicated readership and praise across the genre.Living in South Louisiana, Dawn draws inspiration from the region’s lush landscapes and vibrant culture. When she’s not writing, she loves exploring local cuisine, relaxing on the beach, binging Gilmore Girls, and getting lost in a great book.Join Michelle and Dawn for a warm, engaging conversation about writing romance, blending genres, building worlds, and finding inspiration in everyday life.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more author interviews and creative conversations on Miles Beyond the Page!Subscribe to the official newsletter hereJoin the official podcast Discord channel here#DawnChartier #MilesBeyondThePage #AuthorInterview #WritingCommunity #RomanceAuthor #ParanormalRomance #ContemporaryRomance #Worldbuilding #Books #WritingPodcast #Creativity #WritingLife #MichelleMiles

In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, host Michelle welcomes Taylor A. Jenkins, an author whose love of storytelling began with a single spark of encouragement from a teacher and grew into a lifelong passion.With over twelve years of writing experience, Taylor has turned her early school assignments into entire worlds of imagination. After earning her degree in English and Creative Writing from Weber State University, she dedicated herself to creating the kinds of stories she once escaped into as a reader. Now living in Utah with her family and a lively crew of animals, she continues to explore the beauty, heart, and adventure found in fiction.Join Michelle and Taylor for an inspiring conversation about creative beginnings, the joy of worldbuilding, and how one teacher’s belief can change a life forever. 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more heartfelt author interviews and creative journeys on Miles Beyondthe Page!Subscribe to the official newsletter hereJoin the official podcast Discord channel here#TaylorAJenkins #MilesBeyondThePage #AuthorInterview #WritingCommunity #CreativeWriting #Storytelling #Books #WritingPodcast #Inspiration #Worldbuilding #IndieAuthor #WritingLife #Creativity #MichelleMiles

In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, host Michelle Miles sits down with Keshia C. Willi, an author who seamlessly blends fantasy and fright to craft genre-bending tales that twist reality with every page.Raised in the mountains of Virginia, Keshia’s lifelong love of storytelling has led her to create novels that blur the lines between the magical and the macabre. Her latest works, Johnny Be Good and In the Cold, Cold Winter, both earned spots on Amazon’s Top 100 Hot New Releases list—testament to her unique voice and atmospheric storytelling.🎧 Join Michelle and Keshia as they dive into the art of writing across genres, the inspiration behind dark fantasy, and the thrill of crafting stories that linger long after the last page.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more captivating author interviews and creative conversations on Miles Beyond the Page!ABOUT KESHIA C. WILLI:Keshia C. Willi melds fantasy and fright to create genre-bending stories that twist reality with every page. Raised in the mountains of Virginia, her writing has been a lifelong journey. Her latest novels, JOHNNY BE GOOD and IN THE COLD, COLD WINTER, were featured in Amazon’s Top 100 Hot New Releases list.WHERE TO FIND HER:Website | Facebook | Instagram | TikTokWHERE TO FIND HER BOOKS:BUY LINK FOR IN THE COLD, COLD WINTER#KeshiaCWilli #MilesBeyondThePage #AuthorInterview #WritingCommunity #FantasyAuthor #HorrorAuthor #DarkFantasy #JohnnyBeGood #InTheColdColdWinter #WritingPodcast #Books #Storytelling #Creativity #IndieAuthor #WritingLife

In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, host Michelle Miles welcomes Mark Mustian—award-winning author of The Gendarme, The Return, and the newly acclaimed Boy With Wings. Mark’s work has been recognized internationally, with The Gendarme a finalist for the Dayton International Literary Peace Prize and published in ten languages. His latest novel, Boy With Wings, earned the Grand Prize for Fiction from the Next Generation Indie Book Awards and continues his tradition of exploring humanity, memory, and redemption through powerful storytelling.Beyond writing, Mark is the founder and president of the Word of South Festival of Literature and Music in Tallahassee, Florida—a celebration of the intersection between art forms—and also serves as president of Nabors, Giblin & Nickerson, P.A., one of Florida’s largest local government law firms.🎧 Join Michelle and Mark for a rich conversation about the craft of writing, the influence of history and culture, and the pursuit of peace through story.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring author interviews and creative insights on Miles Beyond the Page!ABOUT MARK:Mark Mustian is the author of the novels The Return and The Gendarme, the latter a finalist for the Dayton International Literary Peace Prize and shortlisted for the Saroyan International Award for Writing. It won the Florida Gold Book Award for Fiction and has been published in ten languages. The founder and president of the Word of South Festival of Literature and Music in Tallahassee, Florida (https://wordofsouthfestival.com/), his new novel, Boy With Wings, has been named the winner of the Grand Prize for Fiction from Next Generation Indie Book Awards, among other honors. Mark is also the president of Nabors, Giblin & Nickerson, P.A., one of the largest local government law firms in Florida. WHERE TO FIND HIM:Website | Facebook | BlueSkyWHERE TO FIND HIS BOOKS:Website#MarkMustian #MilesBeyondThePage #AuthorInterview #WritingCommunity #LiteraryFiction #BoyWithWings #TheGendarme #Storytelling #Books #Podcast #WritingLife #Creativity #WordofSouth #AwardWinningAuthor

In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, host Michelle Miles welcomes Christine Shuck—a multi-genre author, occasional artist, chaos gardener, short-term rental host, and mother of four. Christine’s creative life is as vibrant and multifaceted as the stories she tells.Together, they discuss how Christine balances writing across genres, the inspiration behind her diverse projects, and how she channels life’s beautiful chaos into art. From exploring the craft of storytelling to finding harmony between creativity and everyday responsibilities, Christine offers a candid and inspiring look into her world.🎧 Tune in for a lively conversation about imagination, persistence, and the joy of creating in every form.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more insightful author interviews and creative discussions on Miles Beyond the Page!ABOUT CHRISTINE:Christine Shuck is a multi-genre author, occasional artist, chaos gardener, short-term rental host, and mother of four. When not busy with the aforementioned, you might find her shooting pool competitively in an APA league.WHERE TO FIND HER:Website | Facebook | XWHERE TO FIND HER BOOKS:Universal Buy Link#ChristineShuck #MilesBeyondThePage #AuthorInterview #WritingCommunity #Storytelling #Creativity #IndieAuthor #MultiGenreAuthor #Podcast #WritingLife

In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with award-winning journalist Michele C. Hollow, whose work spans animals, health, mental health, and the environment. With bylines in The New York Times, The Guardian, Next Avenue, and more, Michele brings deep curiosity and compassion to every story she writes.We talk about the heart of journalism—asking the right questions, understanding the “why,” and giving voice to issues that matter. Michele shares how she approaches sensitive topics like mental health, what fuels her reporting, and why empathy is one of a journalist’s most powerful tools.Whether you're a writer, reader, or simply curious about the world, this conversation is a reminder of the impact of storytelling rooted in truth, research, and purpose.🔔 Subscribe for more interviews with journalists and authors who write to inform, connect, and inspire.ABOUT MICHELE C. HOLLOW:Michele C. Hollow is an award winning journalist. She writes about animals, health, mental health, and the environment. Her byline has appeared in The New York Times, New York Daily News, New Jersey Monitor, Next Avenue, The Guardian, and Symphony Magazine. She’s a member the Association of Health Care Journalists. Her favorite parts of being a journalist are researching events, interviewing people, and understanding the whys of how things work.Michele lives in New Jersey with her husband, Steven, their sons Tishon and Jordon, and their rescue cat Chai.WHERE TO FIND HER:Website | BlueSky | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedInWHERE TO FIND HER BOOKS:Jurassic Girl is available at most bookstores, online book sites, and some history and science museums.Ulysses Press | Bookshop.org | Amazon | B&N | Booksamillion#MicheleHollow #JournalismMatters #MentalHealthWriting #AwardWinningJournalist #WritingPodcast #MilesBeyondThePage #MichelleMiles #AuthorInterview #HowToWriteNonfiction #StorytellingWithPurpose #EnvironmentalJournalism #AnimalWelfareWriting #WomenInJournalism #BehindTheByline #CompassionateReporting

In this delightfully witty episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with David Hankins, award-winning author of Death and the Taxman and other laugh-out-loud tales of speculative fiction. Broadcasting from the cornfields of Iowa (with two dragons disguised as cats), David shares how he blends humor, heart, and a touch of absurdity into stories that entertain and uplift.We dive into the origins of Death and the Taxman, his love for writing lighthearted fantasy, and why he believes the world needs more laughter—especially in fiction. David talks about balancing wanderlust with writing, how humor can deepen emotional impact, and why speculative fiction is the perfect sandbox for asking “what if?”—with a grin.If you’re a fan of Terry Pratchett-style wit, clever storytelling, or speculative fiction that doesn’t take itself too seriously, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.🔔 Subscribe for more fun, insightful author interviews that go beyond the page (and make you laugh along the way).Watch Full Episodes + Subscribe for More ⁠⁠Here⁠⁠.ABOUT DAVID HANKINS: David Hankins is the award-winning author of Death and the Taxman and other humorous tales. He writes from the thriving cornfields of Iowa where he lives with his wife, daughter, and two dragons disguised as cats. Afflicted with incurable wanderlust, David devotes his time to his passions of writing, traveling, and finding new ways to pay his mortgage. He writes lighthearted speculative fiction because that's what he loves to read and—this is the important bit—there's not nearly enough humor in the world. David aims to change that, one story at a time. You can find him at https://davidhankins.comWHERE TO FIND HIM:Website | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | BlueSky | X | ThreadsWHERE TO BUY HIS BOOKS:UniversalOTHER BOOKS MENTIONED: How to Write a Howling Good Story by Wulf MoonClick hereKickstarter for Authors by Anthea SharpClick here

Welcome to Part Two of the Miles Beyond the Page Season 2 Highlight Reel!This episode features even more unforgettable moments from an incredible lineup of writers, creators, and storytellers who joined Michelle throughout Season 2. From bestselling authors to fresh new voices, these guests share powerful insights into writing, publishing, creativity, and the stories that drive them.In this highlight reel, you’ll revisit standout clips from:Julie RoweWren ValentinoG. Michael HopfJ.F. MonroeKathy WheelerS.E. HowardElizabeth HobbsMax ShippeeMegan MaryAvily JeromeJanis PattersonDanielle HutchinsonAllison WellsStacey FrazerDavid HankinsFrom discussions about process and perseverance to heartwarming and hilarious stories behind their work, this episode is packed with inspiration for readers, writers, and anyone who loves storytelling.About the Podcast:Miles Beyond the Page is a weekly author interview show hosted by fantasy author Michelle Miles. Each episode dives into the craft of writing, creativity, worldbuilding, the author journey, and the power of story.If you enjoy this highlight reel, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and click the notification bell so you never miss a new episode or upcoming season.Subscribe to the official newsletter here.Join the official podcast Discord channel here.

In this encouraging and empowering episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with Stacy Frazer—fiction writer, Author Accelerator-certified book coach, and host of The Write It Scared Podcast. Stacy has helped countless writers overcome self-doubt, strengthen their stories, and finally finish the books they've been dreaming about.We chat about the emotional ups and downs of the writing life, how coaching can transform not just your story but your mindset, and why writing it scared is sometimes the bravest and most authentic thing an author can do. Stacy also shares her favorite tools for staying creative (and sane), her coaching process, and what it really takes to move from “someday” to “The End.”Whether you’re knee-deep in a manuscript or still waiting to start, this episode will inspire you to keep going—with heart, courage, and a little help along the way.🔔 Subscribe for more honest conversations with the authors, coaches, and creatives who help bring stories to life.Subscribe to the official newsletter ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.Join the official podcast Discord channel ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.ABOUT STACY:Stacy Frazer is a fiction writer, Author Accelerator-certified fiction book coach, and host of The Write It Scared Podcast. She helps writers work through self-doubt, shape stronger stories, and actually finish the novels they’ve been dreaming about without losing their voice (or their sanity) in the process. When she’s not writing, reading, or cheering on writers, you can find her crafting with her daughter, hanging out with goats, or on the trail with her goofy love-pups.WHERE TO FIND HER:Website | Sign up for newsletter#StacyFrazer #BookCoach #WriteItScared #AuthorInterview #WritingPodcast #MilesBeyondThePage #MichelleMiles #HowToWriteANovel #CreativeWritingTips #WritingSupport #FinishYourNovel #AuthorAccelerator #StoryStructure #OvercomingSelfDoubt #FictionWriting #BehindTheBook #WomenWriters #WritingJourney

In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with award-winning author Allison Wells, whose books blend love, redemption, and the soul of the South. Whether she’s writing historical or contemporary fiction, Allison fills her stories with faith, hope, and unforgettable characters who rise above hardship.We chat about her writing process, her love of Southern life, and how her motto—“Life is short, eat the Oreos”—influences her approach to storytelling. With a household full of joy (and pets!), Allison shares how she weaves themes of overcoming and grace into her books, and why faith—whether subtle or central—always finds a place on the page.If you love feel-good fiction with heart, healing, and a touch of Southern charm, this episode is for you.🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring conversations with authors who write from the heart—and for the soul.Subscribe to the official newsletter ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.Join the official podcast Discord channel ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.ABOUT ALLISON WELLS:Allison Wells is a wife, mother, and sweet tea enthusiast. Allison writes stories of hope and love, be they stories of faith or of romance. She loves to write both historical and modern books. As a Southerner, her favorite books are those that showcase elements of Southern life. She lives in South Carolina with her husband, 4 children, 6 chickens, 3 cats, 1 dog, and 1 turtle. Her motto is, "Life is short, eat the Oreos." She's won the Firebird Book Award and an award from the Independent Author Network. She often uses themes of redemption and overcoming. Her books all have a faith element, be it light or a key focus.WHERE TO FIND HER:Website | Newsletter | Facebook | Instagram | TikTokWHERE TO FIND HER BOOKS:Amazon#AllisonWells #FaithFilledFiction #ChristianRomance #SouthernFiction #RedemptionStories #WritingPodcast #MilesBeyondThePage #MichelleMiles #AuthorInterview #HowToWriteANovel #CreativeWritingTips #SweetTeaAndStories #BehindTheBook #WomenWriters #FirebirdBookAward #UpliftingFiction

Welcome to Part One of the Miles Beyond the Page Season 2 Highlight Reel!Join host Michelle Miles as we revisit some of the most inspiring, insightful, and unforgettable moments from Miles Beyond the Page Season 2. In this special highlight reel, we feature clips from an incredible lineup of storytellers—bestselling authors, rising voices, and creative minds who shared their wisdom, humor, and passion for storytelling.In this highlight reel, revisit standout clips from:• Harry Turtledove• Krysten Lindsay Hagar• Jami Gray• Tracey Devlyn• Suzanne Ferrell• J.L. Sullivan• Lyndsey Lewellen• Zoe Allison• Gena Showalter• Kevin Hwang• Sophie Jordan• Lexi Blake• Lila Grey• T.L. JohnsonWhether you're a reader, writer, or creator, these guests share writing advice, publishing insights, creativity tips, author career stories, and behind-the-scenes moments you won't want to miss.About the Podcast:Miles Beyond the Page is a weekly author interview show hosted by fantasy author and podcaster Michelle Miles. Each episode dives deep into the craft of writing, storytelling, worldbuilding, and the creative journey.Subscribe to the official newsletter here.Join the official podcast Discord channel here.If you enjoy this highlight reel, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss a new episode.

In this insightful episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with Danielle Hutchinson, world traveler, former English teacher, and powerhouse at Authors On Mission—the company helping entrepreneurs become published authors with purpose.Ranked #286 on the 2024 INC 5000 list and featured in Forbes and Entrepreneur Magazine, Authors On Mission has helped over 1,100 clients turn their message into a published book. Danielle shares how her global experience influences her approach to storytelling and what it really takes to go from idea to impact in the publishing world.We dive into the mission behind the movement, the process that sets their team apart, and why clarity, strategy, and heart are the pillars of lasting author success.Whether you're an aspiring nonfiction writer or a business leader with a story to tell, this episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and actionable tips for getting your book out into the world.🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with the people redefining how we write, publish, and connect through story.Subscribe to the official newsletter ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.Join the official podcast Discord channel ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.ABOUT DANIELLE:As a former English teacher who's traveled the globe twice, Danielle brings a unique perspective to book writing. At Authors On Mission (ranked #286 on INC 5000's Fastest Growing Companies 2024), she's part of a team that's transformed over 1,100 entrepreneurs into published authors. The company's success has caught the attention of Forbes, and Entrepreneur Magazine, and earned them INC Best in Business recognition.WHERE TO FIND HER:Authors on Mission#DanielleHutchinson #AuthorsOnMission #AuthorSuccess #PublishingJourney #INC5000 #WritingPodcast #MilesBeyondThePage #MichelleMiles #AuthorInterview #NonfictionBooks #BookPublishing #CreativeWritingTips #EntrepreneurAuthors #HowToWriteABook #MissionDrivenPublishing #BehindTheBook

In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with the multi-talented Janis Patterson—a seventh-generation Texan, third-generation wordsmith, and master of writing across genres. Whether it’s mysteries under Janis Patterson, romance and gothic suspense as Janis Susan May, horror as J.S. May, or scholarly works as J.S.M. Patterson, Janis brings intelligence, wit, and incredible life experience to every page.We talk about her fascinating career journey—from actress and talent agent to DNA lab supervisor and Egyptology scholar—and how her adventurous spirit fuels her writing. With decades of storytelling under her belt and a proposal in a moonlit Egyptian garden, Janis shares wisdom, humor, and a true love of the written word.If you’re a fan of bold women, rich histories, and stories as layered as the woman who writes them, this is one episode you don’t want to miss.🔔 Subscribe for more engaging author interviews with storytellers who defy expectations and inspire across genres.Subscribe to the official newsletter ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.Join the official podcast Discord channel ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.ABOUT JANIS PATTERSON:Janis Susan May is a seventh-generation Texan and a third-generation wordsmith who writes mysteries as Janis Patterson, romances and other things as Janis Susan May, children’s books as Janis Susan Patterson, horror as J.S. May and scholarly works as J.S.M. Patterson.Formerly an actress and singer, a talent agent and Supervisor of Accessioning for a bio-genetic DNA testing lab, Janis has also been editor-in-chief of two multi-magazine publishing groups. She founded and was the original editor of The Newsletter of the North Texas Chapter of the American Research Center in Egypt, which for the nine years of her reign was the international organization’s only monthly publication and catalogued in world-wide libraries and universities as a scholarly journal. Long interested in Egyptology, she was one of the founders of the North Texas chapter and was the closing speaker for the ARCE International Conference in Boston in 2005.Janis married for the first time when most of her contemporaries were becoming grandmothers. Her husband, a handsome Navy Captain several years younger than she, even proposed in a moonlit garden in Egypt. Janis and her husband live in Texas with an assortment of rescued furbabies.WHERE TO FIND HER:WebsiteWHERE TO FIND HER BOOKS:Website

In this genre-spanning episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle chats with Avily Jerome, bestselling author of more than a dozen fantasy, supernatural, and urban fantasy novels. From otherworldly creatures to powerful magic systems, Avily crafts stories that thrill, inspire, and keep readers turning pages late into the night.We dive into her writing journey—from short stories in anthologies and magazines to her award-nominated novel The Breeding—and explore what drives her deep love for all things SpecFic. Avily also shares her insights as a freelance editor, contest judge, and frequent writing conference presenter, offering wisdom for writers at every stage of the journey.Whether you're a fantasy fan, aspiring author, or lover of supernatural fiction, this conversation is packed with practical advice, creative inspiration, and a whole lot of passion for storytelling.🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring interviews with storytellers who build worlds beyond the ordinary.Subscribe to the official newsletter ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.Join the official podcast Discord channel ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.ABOUT AVILY:Avily Jerome is the bestselling author of more than a dozen fantasy, supernatural, and urban fantasy books. Her short stories have been published in multiple magazines and anthologies, both print and digital. She has judged several writing contests, both for short stories and novels, and reviewed books for print publications. Her novel, The Breeding, was a finalist in the 2019 Realm Awards for the Supernatural/Paranormal category as well as Book of the Year. She is also a freelance editor, whose clients have published books and finaled in contests. She loves all things SpecFic and writes across multiple genres. She is also a writing conference teacher and presenter, and she enjoys speaking to local writers’ groups and going to SFF cons.She is a wife and the mom of five kids. She loves living in the desert in Phoenix, AZ, and when she’s not writing, she loves reading, spending time with friends, and experimenting with different art forms.WHERE TO FIND HER:Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTokWHERE TO FIND HER BOOKS:Direct | Amazon

In this illuminating episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with metaphysical author, dream analyst, and intuitive guide Megan Mary to explore the power of dreams, personal transformation, and mystical storytelling.With over 25 years of experience in the digital space and advanced degrees in English Literature, Megan now blends her background in communication with her spiritual calling—helping women connect with their dreams, awaken their intuition, and live in alignment. Her podcast, Women’s Dream Enlightenment, is a Top 20 Spiritual Awakening podcast and continues to inspire listeners around the world.We talk about her spiritual awakening, her path from chronic illness to empowered mystic, and how dreams, magick, and personal truth fuel her writing. Whether you're curious about dreamwork, spiritual alignment, or crafting stories that heal and empower, this episode is pure inspiration.🔔 Subscribe for more heart-centered conversations with authors and visionaries writing beyond the veil.Subscribe to the official newsletter ⁠here⁠.Join the official podcast Discord channel ⁠here⁠.ABOUT MEGAN MARY:Metaphysical author Megan Mary, a dream analyst, intuitive,and mystic, intertwines her passion for personal transformation, magick, andcats with the ethereal realm of dreams. In addition to a career spanning over twenty-five yearscreating, managing and marketing websites, she holds a BA and an MA in English Literature, certification in British Studies, and is a member of the International Association for the Study of Dreams. After being diagnosed with three chronic illnesses, sheexperienced a spiritual awakening. She now empowers women all over the world to live more authentic, aligned, and abundant lives through dream empowerment and mystical guidance. Her podcast, Women’s Dream Enlightenment, has been voted as one of the Top 20 Spiritual Awakening Podcasts You Must Follow. When she’s not dreaming or weaving digital webs, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two magickal cats.WHERE TO FIND HER:Website | Instgram | X | Threads | YouTube | LinkedInFind her podcast here! WHERE TO BUY HER BOOKS:Buy Direct | Universal

In this entertaining episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle chats with Max Shippee—actor, gym owner, storyteller, and all-around creative force. From rural Maine to Hollywood, with stops in Texas, Bali, and beyond, Max’s journey is full of unexpected turns, resilience, and reinvention.We explore how his wide-ranging life experiences—from acting and entrepreneurship to parenting and writing—have shaped his creative voice. Max talks about what inspired him to finally put his stories on the page, how he balances discipline with spontaneity, and why embracing change is key to creative growth.Whether you’re chasing your next chapter or just curious about how one man juggles it all with humor and heart, this conversation will leave you inspired.🔔 Subscribe for more real talk with writers and creatives who are boldly carving their path—on and off the page.ABOUT MAX:Max Shippee grew up in rural Maine and knows the woods well. His own journey took him to Hollywood, California by way of Oklahoma, Nevada, Texas, DC, and even Bali, Indonesia. For the last 20 years, he has been busy as an actor, a gym owner, a husband, and a father. Along the way, he’s had some stories brewing in that silver-haired head of his. He thought he best write them down. You can find his spontaneous science-fiction installments on Reddit, and now, Moonshine: The Series has begun with Book One: Path of the Raven. WHERE TO FIND HIM:Website | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | ThreadsWHERE TO BUY: Amazon

In this lively episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle chats with Elizabeth Hobbs/Elizabeth Essex, the author of the Marigold Manners Mysteries, a new historical mystery series full of wit, wickedness, and unforgettable heroines. Her debut mystery, Misery Hates Company, released in 2024, with Murder Made Her Wicked on the way in 2025.Elizabeth talks about blending humor and suspense in her stories, her lifelong love of history, and what it’s like writing across genres—also known to readers as Elizabeth Essex, USA Today bestselling author of award-winning historical romance. From clever sleuths to scandalous love affairs, her books are always packed with charm, tension, and rich period detail.Whether you're into mischief, murder, or a dash of romance, this episode is for readers who love a smart heroine and a twisty tale.🔔 Subscribe for more interviews with authors who bring the past to life with sharp wit and irresistible storytelling.ABOUT ELIZABETH HOBBS:Elizabeth Hobbs is a New Englander born and bred, who spent her childhood roaming the woods and shoreline, making up stories about characters who live far more exciting lives than she. It wasn’t always so—long before she ever set pen to paper, Elizabeth graduated from Hollins College with a B.A. in Classics and Art History, and then earned her M.A. in Nautical Archaeology from Texas A & M University. While she loved the life of an underwater archaeologist, she has found her true calling writing historical mysteries full of wit, wickedness and adventure. MISERY HATES COMPANY, released in 2024, is the first book in her Marigold Manners Mysteries series. The second, MURDER MADE HER WICKED will be released Nov. 11th, 2025, with the third MERIDIAN OF MALICE to follow in 2026.Elizabeth also writes as USA Today Bestselling author of Romance, Elizabeth Essex. Her critically-acclaimed and award-winning Reckless Brides and Highland Brides historical romance series have been nominated for numerous awards, including the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence, the Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Award, and RWA's prestigious RITA Award, and have made Top-Ten lists from Romantic Times, The Romance Reviews and Affaire de Coeur Magazine. Her fifth book, A BREATH OF SCANDAL, was awarded Best Historical in the Reader's Crown 2013.Elizabeth loves to travel from her home in Texas, where she lives with her husband, the Indispensable Mr. Hobbs, and her darling dogs, Ghillie and Brogue, in an empty nest of an old house filled to the brim with bicycles and books.WHERE TO FIND HER:InstagramWHERE TO BUY HER BOOKS:Misery Hates CompanyMurder Made Her Wicked