Dialogues with Creators

Ms. Jeanne Cahill, a native of Georgia, sits down with Barbara Tucker to talk about her new book, Call Me Jeanne: From Outhouse to the White House, A Journey of Family, Loss, and the Power of Love. They discuss her time working for the election of Governor and then President Jimmy Carter, her time in their administrations helping women and families, and what it is like to write a memoir.Get Jeanne's book here!More on Jeanne's legacy: https://research.library.gsu.edu/c.php?g=115725&p=750836

Host Barbara Tucker tackles the promises and perils of generative artificial intelligence in this thought-provoking conversation. Drawing on years of teaching and writing, she reflects on how AI tools are reshaping communication, creativity, and even the human brain. Barbara explores questions of accuracy, ethics, and social responsibility. Whether you’re curious or cautious, this episode challenges you to stay human, think critically, and keep writing in your own voice.Resources mentioned:https://thedispatch.com/article/artificial-intelligence-morality-honesty-pattern-engines/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Ch4a6ffPZY&t=39shttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ixgunKpy61shttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fPUWSv2JCIhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-MbD_KdPgZ0https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ixgunKpy61shttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWpg1RmzAbc&t=4shttps://news.mit.edu/2025/explained-generative-ai-environmental-impact-0117 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7pgdDBu8z4

On this episode, host Barbara Tucker reunites with Amber Nagle, a freelance writer with published articles in Grit, Mother Earth News, Points North, and many other magazines. They discuss the compelling world of generative AI and how it relates to writing and creativity in general. Join as they discuss the uses as well as the dangers of this fascinating new tool.

Host Barbara Tucker takes listeners on an exclusive guided tour of Montpelier Mansion with assistant manager Don Graham. As they wander through the grand halls and shadowy corridors, Graham shares expert insights into the mansion’s colonial architecture and storied past. Perfect for history buffs, this episode seamlessly blends rich historical context with a slightly spooky atmosphere. Tune in as Barbara and Don bring Montpelier Mansion to life—one creaky floorboard at a time.

On this special Fourth of July episode, host Barbara Tucker takes the podcast on the road to Dickenson County, Virginia—a place deeply tied to her family roots and the setting of her novel Lying In. She visits the Dickenson County Historical Society during their writers' event, speaking with local authors and historians who preserve Appalachian heritage through storytelling, genealogy, and community service. Barbara shares heartfelt reflections on her ancestors, creativity, and the region’s enduring spirit. Join her as she explores how memory, place, and hard work inspire the stories we tell—and honor those who came before us.

In this episode, Barbara Tucker welcomes award-winning author and educator Eliot Parker for an in-depth conversation about the craft of writing, the power of storytelling, and inspiring the next generation of writers. With a background in fiction, journalism, and teaching, Eliot shares how his Appalachian roots influence his work and how he balances suspense, character, and place in his novels. He and Barbara discuss the intersection of creativity and discipline, the evolving landscape of publishing, and what aspiring writers need to succeed in today's world. Whether you’re a reader, writer, or educator, this episode delivers valuable insights from one of today’s most thoughtful literary voices.CHECK OUT MORE OF TUCKER AND PARKER'S WORK HERE:https://www.eliotparker.com/https://www.barbaragrahamtucker.nethttps://gofund.me/7d99cd70https://www.rabbitvalleyfarmersmarket.com/https://acworthtourism.org/events/acworth-book-storytelling-festival/

In this episode, Barbara Tucker sits down with accomplished theater director and educator Josh Ruben for a conversation brimming with creativity, collaboration, and behind-the-scenes insights. With decades of experience directing high school and community theatre, Josh shares how he fosters ensemble-based productions that empower young performers and elevate storytelling. He and Barbara explore the role of mentorship in the arts, the challenges and rewards of directing educational theatre, and how theatre builds lifelong skills both on and off the stage. Whether you’re an educator, artist, or theatre enthusiast, this episode offers an inspiring look at the transformative power of the stage.

In this episode, host Barbara Tucker sits down with Tulasi Acharya—author, educator, and passionate advocate for cultural understanding. Born and raised in Nepal, Acharya brings a unique global perspective to the conversation as he shares his journey from South Asia to the United States, navigating identities and storytelling along the way. With a PhD in Public Administration and a powerful voice in both creative and academic writing, Tulasi reflects on the power of language, the immigrant experience, and how literature can foster empathy across borders. Listeners will gain insight into his acclaimed novel Running from the Dreamland, as well as from his academic and nonfiction works, such as Sex, Gender and Disability in Nepal, and his commitment to promoting inclusive narratives. Whether you're an aspiring writer or someone interested in cross-cultural dialogue, this conversation offers both depth and heart. Don’t miss this meaningful exchange about resilience, representation, and the transformative power of words.Links: https://tulasiacharya.wordpress.com/about/barbaragrahamtucker.netGo Fund Me for this podcast; https://gofund.me/7d99cd70

In this insightful solo episode, novelist Dr. Barbara Graham Tucker dives into her journey transitioning between traditional and self-publishing. Drawing from her experience, with three traditionally published novels followed by four self-published, she emphasizes the importance of thoughtful planning. Listeners will appreciate her candid reflection on creative control, financial realities, and the empowerment that comes from owning your work. A practical and honest guide for writers considering the self-publishing route.SEE MORE OF BARBARA'S AWARD-WINNING WORK HERE!

This week, Barbara Tucker sits down with Joy M. Walker—educator, adventurer, and author. Growing up as the youngest of six in an Indiana home filled with books and love, Joy developed a strong passion for reading and writing at an early age. After retiring from a 30-year career in physical education, she launched a second act: traveling the U.S. in a motor home, biking in all 50 states, and writing about her journey. Her debut book, Finding Joy in the West, encourages readers to embrace adventure and rediscover joy. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about stories, purpose, and reinvention.

In this episode, Barbara returns after a break to start the 7th season of Dialogues with Creators, where she interacts with people using their creative in unique ways. She talks with Kristine F. Anderson, award-winning fiction author of Crooked Truth, published by Mercer Press. Kristine earned a Ph.D. in Communicative Arts from Georgia State University and has worked as a freelance writer for national newspapers and magazines. She has also taught high school English at Southern Polytechnic State University (now part of Kennesaw State University) and Shorter College. Kristine and Barbara discuss the creative process behind a novel and what awards mean to writers.Support this podcast at https://gofund.me/b16c8b12

In this episode, Barbara explains three fundamentals for your novel: the spark, the character, and the plot.Visit her website: www.barbaragrahamtucker.netSupport this podcast at https://gofund.me/b16c8b12

In this episode, Ryan Reece joins us again after three years. Ryan’s film Ilation has garnered almost 30 awards at film festivals nationwide. These include writing, production, and acting awards at both secular and faith-based venues. We discuss the process, why it resonates with people, the collaborative nature of creativity, and whether awards motivate or demotivate.Check out more of Dr. Barbara Tucker's work here!Support this podcast at https://gofund.me/b16c8b12

Support this podcast at https://gofund.me/b16c8b12Today’s guests have produced many fascinating works. Here are some links:Cynthia Robinson Young: https://www.cynthiarobinsonyoung.com/Rachel Landrum Crumble: https://poetteachermom.com/Devereaux Chivington-Stebbins: https://www.csdevereaux.com/Rebecca Lefkoff: Hot for Teacher, An Apple a DayTucker Pennington: http://tuckerpennington.com/Chattanooga Writers Guild https://chattanoogawritersguild.org/

Following up on an earlier episode where she discussed how novel writing may or may not be a choice for everyone who aspires to it, Barbara Tucker turns to a more hopeful message of how you can build a foundation to write a novel.Support this podcast at https://gofund.me/b16c8b12Check out Barbara's books here!

Ever dreamt of writing a novel but don't know where to start? Join us this week as we welcome Dr. Barbara Tucker, author and writing expert, who shares invaluable insights and practical advice for aspiring novelists.Support this podcast at https://gofund.me/b16c8b12Visit Dr. Tucker's website for more writing resources and information about her books. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast for more inspiring interviews with creative professionals!

In this first episode of 2025, Barbara sits down with Dr. John Fuchko III, who is the sixth president of Dalton State College. They discuss leadership in various contexts and interrogate cliches about leaders. They also discuss the concept of servant leadership.Support this podcast at https://gofund.me/b16c8b12

In this episode, we are joined by two poets. Cynthia Robinson Young is the author of Migration, a Finalist in the 2019 Georgia Author of the Year Award, and a Pushcart Prize and Best of the Net for 2023 nominee. Rachel Landrum Crumble is a poet with an MFA from Vermont College and publications in numerous literary journals. Her work has been recognized with awards and fellowships, and her debut poetry collection, "Sister Sorrow," was recently published by Finishing Line Press.Update: Cynthia Robinson Young's Reflections of a Feral Mother is forthcoming, as it is being republished by Walnut Street Publishing in the coming months. It should be available by March of 2025.Support this podcast at https://gofund.me/b16c8b12Find out more about Cynthia and Rachel here:https://www.cynthiarobinsonyoung.com/https://poetteachermom.com/

Located in Hixson, Rêve Coffee and Books is focused on creating a "third place"–a communal space outside of work or home–for the Chattanooga community. Owner and barista Aniston Williams has built Rêve around the idea of community, a love for reading, and education.Join us as Dr. Barbara Tucker sits down and talks with Aniston about what inspired her to create this sanctuary for fellow book lovers and how she utilizes creativity in every aspect of her life from teaching to owning a business to motherhood!Support this podcast at https://gofund.me/b16c8b12Find out more about Rêve Coffee and Books here!

Barbara speaks with her friend and publisher, Vickie McEntire, who recently acquired Colorful Crow Publishing of Calhoun. They will talk entrepreneurship, writing, and creativity. Vickie adds "“Katie Clayton, who takes care of marketing, is essential to the success of our clients and the company!"Support this podcast at https://gofund.me/b16c8b12Find out more about Colorful Crow Publishing here!