Hungry Dogs with James Patterson

Viola Davis and James Patterson join The New York Times' Sarah Lyall for a conversation about their new novel Judge Stone and the collaboration behind it. They discuss how the project began, what it takes to build a story together, and how their different backgrounds shaped the book. For Viola, it was a return to collaboration after years of working independently in film, while for James it was about finding the right voice and emotional center for the story. The conversation explores how they developed their characters, especially Nova and Judge Stone, and why it was so important to portray them with honesty and care. Viola shares how her own experiences informed the emotional core of the story, and James talks about the importance of voice, structure, and constantly refining scenes until they feel true. They also talk about the challenges of writing about difficult subjects, the role of storytelling in exploring questions of power and justice, and why stories like this matter in moments when people are searching for clarity and meaning. Special thank you to The 92nd Street Y, New York for making this conversation possible. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lee Child and Andrew Child join James Patterson for a conversation about the creation of Jack Reacher, their unconventional writing process, and how one of the most iconic characters in modern fiction continues to evolve. Lee shares the story of getting fired at nearly 40 and how that moment pushed him to write his first novel, a turning point that ultimately led to the global success of the Reacher series. They talk about how they write together and why they avoid outlines, relying instead on instinct and momentum to guide each scene. For them, writing is less about planning every detail in advance and more about discovering the story as it unfolds. The conversation also explores the philosophy behind Jack Reacher as a character, their belief that writing is a job that requires showing up and doing the work, and how their upbringing shaped their approach to storytelling. They reflect on the transition from books to film and streaming, and what it means to adapt a character like Reacher for a new audience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Hungry Dogs, James Patterson sits down with Erik Larson, the bestselling author behind Devil in the White City, The Splendid and the Vile, and Thunderstruck. Larson reveals how he stumbled onto the Devil in the White City story through an encyclopedia of murder and a PhD dissertation with incredible footnotes, and why he was convinced the book would end his career the night before it published. They get into why he does all his own research with no assistants, how he discovered secret diary entries about a heartbroken Churchill aide during the Blitz, and the family reunion where his sister told him she wasn't interested in reading his next book. Erik also discusses why Hollywood has optioned his work for over 20 years and still hasn't made the movie and the one rule he never breaks when it comes to upcoming projects. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Charles Duhigg joins James Patterson for a conversation about habits, behavior change, communication, and why “life hacks” rarely lead to lasting transformation. Duhigg, Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist and bestselling author of The Power of Habit, Smarter Faster Better, and Super Communicators, explains the science behind the cue–routine–reward loop and why nearly half of what we do each day isn’t a conscious decision; it’s a habit. They discuss mental habits, deep thinking, storytelling, creativity, and how strong communication skills can combat loneliness and polarization. Duhigg also shares insights on productivity culture, why shortcuts fail, and what it really takes to change behavior for good. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Vicky Ward joins James Patterson for a revealing conversation about Jeffrey Epstein, power, and the systems that allowed him to operate for decades. Ward, one of the first journalists to profile Epstein in 2003, reflects on the intimidation tactics she experienced firsthand and why Epstein’s influence extended far beyond what most people understood at the time. They explore the psychology of Epstein’s world, the powerful figures who surrounded him, and how wealth and access can distort accountability. Ward also shares her perspective on Ghislaine Maxwell, former Prince Andrew, and the many unresolved questions that continue to shadow Epstein’s network. James Patterson also discusses his reaction to being mentioned in the Epstein Files, including email exchanges between Epstein and author Michael Wolff connected to the release of James' 2016 book, Filthy Rich: The Jeffrey Epstein Story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brad Meltzer joins James Patterson for a wide ranging conversation about rejection, resilience, and the unpredictable path to success. Meltzer reflects on receiving 24 rejection letters before publishing his first novel and why those early setbacks shaped his career far more than any instant success story. They discuss how comic books helped turn them both into lifelong readers, the hidden lessons inside failure, and the mindset required to keep going when nothing seems to be working. Meltzer also shares remarkable personal stories, including honoring veterans, throwing out a first pitch at a Major League Baseball game, and the unforgettable experience of reading to President George H. W. Bush near the end of his life. The conversation also touches on Meltzer’s latest thriller, The Viper, along with storytelling, persistence, and the moments that quietly define a writer’s career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

James Patterson sits down with Aldis Hodge and Ben Watkins, the star and showrunner of Amazon’s Cross, to talk about bringing Alex Cross from the page to the screen. They discuss what it means to reinterpret one of fiction’s most iconic detectives, why the series focuses on new stories rather than direct adaptations, and how Cross is written as a father, partner, and human being first. Catch the premiere of Season 2 of Cross today on Prime Video! 00:00 Intro 01:09 Discussing Season Two of Cross 02:47 Character Complexity and Realism 05:43 The Evolution of Alex Cross 07:11 Behind the Scenes: Writer's Room Insights 12:33 Comparing TV Shows and Movies 14:03 Creating New Stories Beyond the Books 16:03 Character Development and Flaws 17:07 Acting and Watchmaking 19:51 The Art of Television Writing 22:02 Exciting Twists in Season Two 25:07 Upcoming Projects and Collaborations Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

James Patterson sits down with author and Harvard professor Dr. Arthur Brooks for a conversation about happiness, suffering, and what actually makes life meaningful. Brooks explains why true happiness requires pain, why eliminating struggle leads to dissatisfaction, and how learning from failure is essential to growth. They discuss the science behind happiness, the difference between success and meaning, the importance of relationships, and how our priorities shift as we age. Drawing from Brooks’ research, teaching, and writing, this episode explores how to build a life rooted in purpose rather than chasing constant pleasure. 00:00 Intro 01:04 The Harvard Happiness Course 02:25 The Science of Happiness 10:12 The Importance of Friendships 15:59 Balancing Work and Family 25:43 Understanding Intelligence Over Time 30:02 Fluid vs. Crystallized Intelligence 32:06 Disrupt Everything: Embracing Change 36:06 Encouraging Writers to Finish Their Books 42:56 Global Poverty and Economic Freedom 44:52 Loving Your Enemies (Seriously) 50:33 The Power of Storytelling and Memory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

James Patterson speaks with acclaimed novelist Daniel Kehlmann about literature, history, and the quiet decisions that shape moral responsibility. Kehlmann discusses growing up between Germany and the United States, differences in reading culture and education, and why habits of reading matter more than ever. They explore Kehlmann’s novel The Director, which examines how ordinary people become complicit inside authoritarian systems, and why evil rarely arrives as a single defining moment. The conversation touches on moral judgment, censorship, artistic responsibility, comedy in dark times, and how small, defensible choices can slowly lead societies down dangerous paths. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

James Patterson sits down with Pulitzer Prize–winning writer Peggy Noonan for a wide-ranging conversation about history, uncertainty, and writing in divided times. Noonan reflects on her decades-long career at The Wall Street Journal, her years inside the Reagan White House as a speechwriter, and what she learned watching leadership up close during a pivotal moment in American history. They discuss how writers observe power from the outside, what leadership looks like when character is tested, and why moments of absolute certainty are often the most dangerous in public life. Drawing on her time writing for Ronald Reagan and later reflecting on his presidency, Noonan shares lessons about decency, civic life, political courage, and what it means to remain intellectually honest when the country feels unsettled. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

James Patterson talks with Michael J. Fox about optimism, acceptance, and choosing how to move forward in the face of uncertainty. Fox reflects on writing his memoir Future Boy, why acceptance does not mean resignation, and how understanding what is allows you to keep going rather than give up. They discuss living publicly with Parkinson’s, using humor as a survival tool, and why action matters more than false positivity. Fox also shares how the Michael J. Fox Foundation has helped transform Parkinson’s research, why skepticism is healthy but cynicism is corrosive, and how investing in people and science can create real, lasting change. 00:00 Intro 01:11 Acceptance and Resilience 02:12 Michael J. Fox's Writing Journey 07:19 Rock and Roll Fantasies 08:23 Friendship with Muhammad Ali 16:20 Parkinson's and Advocacy 20:12 Family and Personal Reflections 24:22 Living in New York 25:08 Career Reflections 26:17 Writing and Storytelling 28:25 Dealing with Bullies 29:58 Health Challenges and Optimism 34:40 Philanthropy and Research 40:20 Today's Politics Try Novelium today and get your first month free at https://novelium.so/ with code PATTERSON Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, joins James Patterson on today's episode of Hungry Dogs to talk about why habits matter more than motivation and how small actions shape who we become. Clear reflects on recovering from a life-changing injury, learning to value small wins, and why every habit is a vote for the type of person you want to be. They discuss identity-based habits, the difference between motion and action, optimism versus cynicism, and how reading, environment, and consistency influence long-term success. Clear also shares practical insights on building better systems, parenting, education, and why five good minutes can be enough to reset a day. 00:00 Intro 00:59 The Atomic Habits Workbook 02:30 James Clear's Personal Journey 04:06 The Importance of Small Wins 06:21 The Deeper Reason Habits Matter 12:41 Disrupting the Norm: Positive Changes 15:16 The Four Laws of Behavior Change 17:54 Navigating the Job Market with Atomic Habits 19:42 Identity Change Through Small Actions 23:06 The Importance of Quality Content 25:54 Applying Atomic Habits in Family Life 32:35 The Value of Five Good Minutes 33:10 Thinking Long Term, Acting Short Term Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

James Patterson talks with author Tara Westover, known for her bestselling memoir Educated, about memory, self-education, and learning how to write truthfully about your own life. Westover reflects on growing up in a radical, isolated household in rural Idaho and how education became both her escape and her reckoning. They discuss the challenge of writing about family when memories conflict, how she moved from academic writing to storytelling, and why short stories helped her find her voice. She also shares how her understanding of learning has changed over time and offers a glimpse into what she is exploring in her next book. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Matthew McConaughey returns for Part Two of his conversation with James Patterson on Hungry Dogs. He reflects on how looking back while writing Greenlights helped him better envision the future he wanted. They also discuss the beauty of college sports, possible paths forward for higher education, and why investing in people and communities matters far beyond immediate results. 00:00 Intro 02:49 Exploring Poetry and Literature 08:29 What Does Faith Mean to You? 10:47 The Beauty of College Sports 14:59 The Importance of Public Service 22:28 Would Matthew McConaughey Ever Write a Novel? Try Novelium today and get your first month free at https://novelium.so/ with code PATTERSON Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Matthew McConaughey joins James Patterson for a wide-ranging conversation about writing, belief, and living with intention. McConaughey discusses his books Greenlights and Poems and Prayers, why he thinks of writing as music, and how finding the right rhythm can unlock both storytelling and life. They talk about skepticism versus cynicism, faith and responsibility, and why belief is different from hope. McConaughey reflects on resisting labels like the “rom-com guy,” choosing disruption with values, and why education, reading, and practical experience matter more than rigid systems. They also touch on college sports, leadership, and what it means to stand for something without preaching. Try Novelium today and get your first month free at https://novelium.so/ with code PATTERSON Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

James Patterson talks with actor and comedian Josh Gad about comedy, anxiety, and finding warmth in the cold. Best known as the voice of Olaf in Disney’s Frozen, Gad opens up about living with anxiety, using humor to cope, and how performing helped him support his family and himself through hard times. He reflects on his friendship with Robin Williams, what he learned from working with legends like Mel Brooks, and the deeply personal stories in his new memoir In Gad We Trust. Gad shares how writing the book helped him rethink fear, grief, and identity, and why vulnerability has become his greatest strength. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

James Patterson talks with bestselling author Patricia Cornwell about grief, storytelling, and the upcoming Kay Scarpetta TV series inspired by her groundbreaking forensic novels. Cornwell reflects on how loss, solitude, and faith have shaped her writing, and why she believes every mystery is really a fairytale in disguise. They discuss her new book Sharp Force, the decades-long evolution of Scarpetta, and how real science, compassion, and curiosity keep her searching for truth on and beyond the page. The Scarpetta universe will soon come to life as an Amazon Original Series starring Nicole Kidman and Jamie Lee Curtis, but Cornwell’s focus remains on the stories that connect us through loss, resilience, and imagination. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Baldacci joins James Patterson on the latest episode of Hungry Dogs for a conversation about writing, failure, and the long road to success. David opens up about growing up in Richmond, Virginia during segregation and how weekly library trips changed his life. He also recalls the years of rejection before his breakout novel Absolute Power and the moment everything shifted overnight David also shares how law school taught him to think like a storyteller, how he still approaches his craft with gratitude, and why he tells writers to “remember you get paid to make things up.” 00:00 Intro 01:56 David Baldacci's Upbringing and Early Influences 02:57 The Journey to Becoming a Writer 06:11 The Impact of 'Absolute Power' 08:27 The Business of Writing 12:09 Calamity Souls and Other Works 14:04 Competitiveness and Haters 15:10 The Art of Outlining vs. Writing in the Trenches 16:52 Who's David Ford? 19:24 Family and Fame: Balancing Act 22:46 Hollywood Adventures and Misadventures 25:59 The AI Dilemma and Future of Creativity 27:54 Positive Thinking and Life Lessons Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stacey Abrams joins James Patterson for a conversation about writing, identity, and finding her voice. She talks about growing up as the first generation in her family born with voting rights, how that shaped her sense of agency, and why a democracy only works when people can truly be heard. Stacey also dives into her work as an author, from her early novels to her latest thriller, Coded Justice, featuring Avery Keene. She and James discuss ambition, storytelling, reading, and how real systems and community experiences influence her fiction. Follow James Patterson: https://.jamespatterson.com/ https://jamespatterson.substack.com/ https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/contributor/james-patterson/ https://www.instagram.com/realjamespatterson/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Harlan Coben joins Hungry Dogs with James Patterson to talk about the book he co-authored with Reese Witherspoon, Gone Before Goodbye, and the joy and success he’s found through collaboration. They look back at how Coben’s creativity developed—from his writing courses at UMass Amherst, to the early book deals that once felt massive, to the international acclaim he enjoys today. Though the two differ in how they bring their stories to the page, the New York Times bestselling authors find common ground in the struggles it sometimes takes to get the words down. Coben also discusses his collaborations with Netflix and the adaptations of his work abroad. 00:00 Intro 01:24 Back in the Day... 03:26 Early Career Struggles 04:51 Collaboration with Reese Witherspoon 08:37 Hollywood and Netflix Projects 11:36 Success in France and 'Tell No One' 16:27 Discussing the Bad Guy 16:51 Basketball Memories 17:50 High School Days with Chris Christie 19:13 College Years and Notable Classmates 21:50 Tragedy as a Teacher 23:39 Balancing Ordinary Life with Creative Work 27:29 Writing Process and Outlining 28:47 Golf and Life Analogies 30:50 Upcoming Projects and Family Connections Follow James Patterson: https://.jamespatterson.com/ https://jamespatterson.substack.com/ https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/contributor/james-patterson/ https://www.instagram.com/realjamespatterson/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices