RedPubPod

“That’s what’s important about poetry; you have to wager something you can lose.” Award-winning author Michael Loderstedt reveals the key to impactful poetry Welcome to another episode of RedPubPod, where poetry, art, and a little bit of Southern charm collide in the most unexpected ways. Hosted by Acquisitions Editor Patty Thompson, this episode features a dynamic duo: poets Tim Peeler and Michael Loderstedt.  Tim, a writer since his college days at East Carolina University, kicks things off by introducing Michael, who he brought to the podcast. Michael, a creative soul from the Southern Outer Banks, shares how growing up on a quiet island (think salty air, vast skies, and lots of time to think) shaped Why We Fished. They bond over their love of art in all its forms—whether it’s the sound of a ukulele or a freshly written poem. Michael reveals the deeply personal inspiration behind the poem “Calling My Stepfather One Year After Mom Died,” and Tim gets into why good poetry isn’t about shock value. It's not just Michael who has stories to tell. Tim, the son of a preacher and a lifelong lover of literature, shares how his upbringing in a book-filled house influenced his poetic voice and the inspiration behind Life and Times of Gudger.  Lastly, things take a fun turn when Patty asks the big question: What do these two poets think of Kendrick Lamar? Spoiler alert: Tim’s been a fan for years. So, please grab a coffee (or something stronger; we don’t judge) and tune in to this lighthearted yet insightful conversation about poetry, art, family, and why these things come back to a good story. Trust us, it’s more than just words. Check out Michael’s book Why We Fished If you would like a copy of their new limited edition of Life and Times of Gudger, Tim or Joe can be reached at tpeeler4382@gmail.com  HEY! RedPubPod is thrilled to have Taste Full Beans as our premier sponsor in Downtown Hickory, North Carolina. If you’re ever in town, swing by for fantastic coffee, food, and Redhawk Publications books. Be sure to tell the awesome folks there that RedPubPod sent you! Taste Full Beans Coffee, Tea & Café 29 2nd Street NW, Hickory, NC (828) 325-0108 Don’t forget to FOLLOW, SHARE, LIKE, & SUBSCRIBE to RedPubPod! Show some love for poetry because carefully chosen words in the proper order really do matter. Check out our Facebook page for our latest releases and featured events Go to our commerce site to see our entire list of titles available for sale here #RedPubPod, #RedhawkPublications, #TimPeeler, #MichaelLoderstedt, #WhyWeFished, #LifeandTimesofGudger, #Poetry, #Publishing, #Authors, #Writers #NCPoets

“Having a passionate acquisitions editor encourages you, but it’s also accountability. Someone knows you are writing a book, so you have to write a book. And you know you’ll be disappointed if you don’t.” Chrissie Dixon, Author In this episode of RedPubPod, co-hosts Robert Canipe and Patty Thompson welcome author Chrissie Dixon to discuss her new inspiring book, No Jump in My Trunk. Chrissie shares the journey behind her uplifting parable about a little elephant who learns to discover and embrace her strengths rather than focusing on what she lacks. Written during the COVID-19 lockdown, the book draws from Chrissie’s experiences as a mother, speaker, and believer in the power of personal growth. Through engaging storytelling and African village proverbs, No Jump in My Trunk offers a fresh take on self-help, making it accessible to readers of all ages. Chrissie talks about the lessons she hopes to impart—honoring one's unique gifts, overcoming self-doubt, and finding authentic empowerment. During the book's creation, Chrissie impressed Robert and Patty with her innovative use of AI to illustrate No Jump in My Trunk. While some view AI as a threat to traditional artistry, Chrissie approached it as a creative tool—using her own vision, specificity, and critical thinking to direct AI in bringing her illustrations to life. In doing so, she became both the author and the illustrator of her book, proving that technology can enhance artistic expression rather than replace it. And it was a graphic artist, Ben Precup, who encouraged Chrissie to embrace AI, reinforcing the idea that it can complement traditional art rather than take opportunities away. (Shout out to Ben, a book cover designer for a few Redhawk books!) We hope you will join us to hear about Chrissie’s four-year journey from reader to writer and how she hopes to uplift others along the way. Check out Chrissie’s book No Junp in my Trunk here Visit Chrissie's website here HEY! RedPubPod is thrilled to have Taste Full Beans as our premier sponsor in Downtown Hickory, North Carolina. If you’re ever in our neck of the woods, swing by for fantastic coffee, food, and Redhawk Publications books. Be sure to tell the awesome folks there that RedPubPod sent you! Taste Full Beans Coffee, Tea & Café 29 2nd Street NW, Hickory, NC (828) 325-0108 Don’t forget to FOLLOW, SHARE, LIKE, & SUBSCRIBE to RedPubPod! Show some love for literature because carefully chosen words in just the correct order do matter. Check out our Facebook page for our latest releases and featured events Go to our commerce site to see our entire list of titles REDHAWK PUBLICATIONS HOSTS: Robert Canipe, Publisher Patty Thompson, Acquisitions Editor Richard Eller, Executive Director & House Engineer #RedPubPod, #RedhawkPublications, #NorthCarolina, #SelfHelp, #Inspirational, #Parables, #fable, #PersonalDevelopment, #Books, #Writing, #Authors, #AspiringAuthors, #Writers See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Famed Vermont Author Joseph Citro Tells it Like it Is Regarding 21st Century Publishing Whoa! Patty gets her secret wish. It doesn’t happen often, but our acquisitions editor becomes the solo host and takes the crown as “Queen of the Pod” with guest veteran storyteller and Vermont’s own Joseph Citro. Joseph isn’t new to publishing—back in the day, he was an author with one of the largest publishers in the U.S. But his novel The Gore ended up as an orphan. What’s an orphan book? In this episode, you’ll discover how Redhawk Publications’ publisher, Robert Canipe, hunts them down online. Joseph is a proud fan of his home state, Vermont. All his novels and short stories are set in the Green Mountain State, and much of his later nonfiction work explores Vermont’s folklore and mysteries. Patty and Joseph also go knee-deep into the state of publishing. Spoiler alert: it’s bleak now, yet it was pretty grim then, too. But here’s the silver lining—they agree that some of the best writing today comes from mid-sized and small publishers, where collaboration feels more personal. Joseph even shares his admiration for fame editor Max Perkins, a Windsor, Vermont native, and dreams of the days when editors had genuine give-and-take relationships with authors. Joseph’s advice for aspiring writers? Finish what you write. It sounds simple, but new writers often get distracted and leave manuscripts unfinished. If nothing else, Joseph wants his students to feel the satisfaction of completing a first draft and seeing it through the editing process. Oh, and watch your point of view—it’s essential! There’s always something inspiring about informal interviews with seasoned authors who’ve been around the block. Redhawk Publications was lucky not only to bring The Gore back to life but also to build a fantastic collaborative relationship with Joseph. Check out Joseph’s book The Gore here RedPubPod host for this episode is Patty Thompson, Acquisitions Editor for Redhawk Publications HEY! RedPubPod is thrilled to have Taste Full Beans as our premier sponsor in Downtown Hickory, North Carolina. If you’re ever in town, swing by for fantastic coffee, food, and Redhawk Publications books. Be sure to tell the awesome folks there that RedPubPod sent you! Taste Full Beans Coffee, Tea & Café 29 2nd Street NW, Hickory, NC (828) 325-0108 Don’t forget to FOLLOW, SHARE, LIKE, & SUBSCRIBE to RedPubPod! Show some love for poetry because carefully chosen words in just the right order really do matter. Check out our Facebook page for our latest releases and featured events Head to our commerce site to see our entire list of titles available for sale #RedPubPod, #RedhawkPublications, #Vermont, #JoeCitro, #JosephCitro, #Novels, #Books, #Writing, #Authors, #Fiction, #TheGore, #Folklore, #Mysteries, #Publishing, #AspiringWriters, See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We're always pumped to have poet Scott Owens drop by for a podcast chat! Not only is he a natural storyteller, but you walk away a little brighter every time. It's been a whole year since his last visit, and true to form, he hasn’t been resting on his laurels—he’s released two poetry collections: An Augury of Birds and Eventually. An Augury of Birds pairs Scott’s insightful poetry with the breathtaking photography of Clayton Joe Young. Meanwhile, Eventually dives into the delicate art of haiku, brought to life with illustrations by North Carolina artist Missy Cleveland. Both collections are seriously worth a look (or five). As usual, the RedPubPod crew dives into an informal, anything-goes conversation with Scott, touching on everything from the compulsion to write and the role of creatives in tough times to the art of connecting with an audience—whether through a poem or a bar of soap. Even Captain Ahab from Moby Dick sails into the discussion! Scott drops some wisdom bombs, reminding us that it’s not the victors who write history—it’s the writers. So don’t lose your artistic voice! Need some inspiration to keep creating? Check out the fantastic article mentioned in the pod here https://tinyurl.com/LighthouseForDarkTimes Oh, and before we forget—don’t miss Catawba County’s premier fundraiser for the arts: Art Culture Catawba’s Jingle Bell BASH! Get all the details here! Are you a published author and don’t mind shlepping to Hickory for a Book Fair? We have a few more spaces left for an upcoming Holiday Book Fair and Cookie Decoration Contest on Saturday, December 14th, from 11 am – 2 pm at the Catawba County Main Library in Newton. Interested in Redhawk Publications’ Writers’ Workshops (seated) this coming Spring term? Get in touch with Patty for more information on the book fair as well as the workshops: pthompson994@cvcc.edu A big shout-out to our favorite sponsor, Taste Full Beans Coffee, Tea & Café, located at 29 2nd Street NW, Hickory, NC. They’ve got it all—great coffee, tasty food, shelves of quality books, and even a formal afternoon tea service! Hickory, you fancy now. 🫖 Hosts in this episode: Richard Eller, Executive Director, RedHawk Publications Robert Canipe, Publisher, RedHawk Publications Patty Thompson, Acquisitions Editor, RedHawk Publications See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“Every Serious Writer Needs to be Reading Craft of Writing Books Every Day!”... Renowned Southern Author Rhonda Browning Puts All Writers on Notice Get comfy for this jam-packed, fun episode with award-winning author Rhonda Browning White as she spills the inside scoop on her debut novel, Filling the Big Empty. Inspired by her earlier short stories, this story follows a young couple navigating life’s highs and lows, from the coal mines and vineyards of West Virginia to the North Carolina Piedmont. Rhonda and the hosts dive into the magic of storytelling—from Hemingway’s famous flash fiction to the art of giving readers just enough to set their imagination loose. This episode is packed with references! We've done the work for you with shoutouts to fantastic authors—check out Lee Smith, Bonnie Jo Campbell, Robert Olmstead, Stewart O’Nan, Russell Banks, and North Carolina’s own Ron Rash. Rhonda also shares her admiration for legacy writers like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Flannery O’Connor. Robert chimes in with an example of six-word storytelling, like Hemingway's famous short story Baby Shoes: “For Sale. Baby shoes. Never worn.” Rhonda drops some wisdom on authentic writing (hint: when adding research, think a sprinkle of salt, not a pound!). They explore the quirks of the craft, like the art of flash fiction and the intimacy of first-person narration. Rhonda’s take on good writing? Make sure to include redemption, conflict, authenticity, suspense, and setting that lets readers discover new places. Keep growing your craft, put in the work, and who knows, you might just follow in Rhonda’s footsteps. That’s an admirable goal, folks! BOOK LAUNCH PARTY: If you’re listening before mid-November, catch Rhonda’s big Book Launch Party (free and open to the public!) on Nov. 16th at 3 p.m. at Olde Hickory Station in Hickory, North Carolina. She’s also planning additional readings at vineyards and bookstores across WV, NC, SC, and FL. Keep an eye on her website for event details! Find Rhonda’s website here Find Rhonda on Facebook here Hickory’s favorite coffee spot sponsors REDPUBPOD, Taste Full Beans. Look for Rhonda (and often Patty!) on Saturday mornings, coffee & bagel in hand. Swing by and say hi—they’re always up for a chat! Taste Full Beans Coffee, Tea & Café 29 2nd Street NW, Hickory, North Carolina. (828) 325-0108 Your RedPubPod hosts in this episode are: Robert Canipe, Publisher, RedHawk Publications Patty Thompson, Acquisitions Editor, RedHawk Publications Buy all your Redhawk Publications books here! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Hinshaw Gets to the Root of Redhawk Publications...Its Humble Beginnings and Its Continued Mission that’s Growing Exponentially Go ahead, laugh it up. Redhawk Publications might be the Isle of Misfit Toys, but guess what? We wear that title like a badge of honor—and we deliver! As we close in on our ninth anniversary (yeah, nine years!) and nearly 200 books published, our little pirate ship is crushing it, taking names, and making waves in the literary world. In this episode, Catawba Valley Community College President Dr. Garrett Hinshaw takes the lead and tackles the big questions with the college’s Redhawk Publications staff that everyone’s been dying to ask. Whether you've been a champion of Redhawk Publications since Day One or just stumbled onto this crazy ride, this episode will fill in the gaps of how we started, what we do, and how we do it. Here’s the deal: We collaborate, brainstorm, and add a solid dose of creativity and humor while respecting each other (mostly). That’s how this dream team keeps moving forward. Every year, we’re picking up more fans and readers—not just locally but all over the state, the country, and, yep, around the world. This episode's a bit longer than usual, but hey, it’s packed with a killer story about how we blend intrapreneurship, literature, collaboration, creativity, and good ol’ return on investment. Tune in—you’ll be glad you listened! REDHAWK PUBLICATIONS HOST: Garrett Hinshaw, PhD - President, Catawba Valley Community College GUESTS: Richard Eller, Executive Director RedHawk Publications Robert Canipe, Publisher, RedHawk Publications Patty Thompson, Acquisitions Editor, RedHawk Publications And buy all your Redhawk Publications books here! HEY, Y’ALL (Once again!) ….RP has a sponsor! Don’t forget to visit Taste Full Beans in Hickory whenever you are headed our way. Great coffee, food, and Redhawk Publications books, too! Be sure to tell the fine folks at TFB that you heard about them from RedPubPod! Taste Full Beans Coffee, Tea & Café, 29 2nd Street NW, Hickory, North Carolina. (828) 325-0108 Please FOLLOW, SHARE, LIKE, and SUBSCRIBE to RedPubPod to show your love for reading and books. Select words in unique order placed by authors matter! Check out our Facebook page for our latest releases and featured events See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

David Dickson’s short story collection, “Down to the Root", is an homage to a life richly lived. It makes sense: the author has spent a lifetime collecting people and developing stories. And the folks he meets along the way are incorporated into vibrant characters you can’t forget. The RedPubPod crew had a great time interviewing this clever North Carolina author in July to discuss the impetus of his writing as well as his writing process. David's childhood in North Carolina and summers in Texas all come into play. His stories are universal but have a unique Southern and Appalachian vibe. We know you will enjoy this collection, so just go and get “Down to the Root” here! And buy all your Redhawk Publications books at: https://redhawkpublications.com HEY – RedPubPod has a Podcast Sponsor! Please patronize Taste Full Beans in Hickory whenever you are headed our way. Great coffee, food, and Redhawk Publications books, too! Be sure to tell the fine folks you heard about TFB from RedPubPod! Taste Full Beans Coffee, Tea & Café, 29 2nd Street NW, Hickory, North Carolina * (828) 325-0108 Please FOLLOW, SHARE, LIKE, & SUBSCRIBE to RedPubPod to show your love for poetry because select words in unique order placed by poets matter! Check out our Facebook page for our latest releases and featured events Hosts: Robert Canipe, Publisher, RedHawk Publications Patty Thompson, Acquisitions Editor, RedHawk Publications Tim Peeler, Chief Editor, Redhawk Publications #RedPubPod #RedhawkPublications #ShortStories #Books #Writing #Authors #Appalachia #AppalachianWriters #DownToTheRoot #DavidDickson #NorthCarolinaWriters #NorthCarolinaWritersNetwork #RonRash #TimPeeler #Novels #Fiction #EdSouthern See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Grab your favorite artisanal coffee, hit play, and settle in for an inspiring chat with Western Pennsylvania's poetic gem, Jay Orlando! Hailing from a small Appalachian town east of Pittsburgh, Jay's journey is as rich and complex as the rolling hills he grew up in. This episode is a deep dive into the life of a trans man who turned his trials into triumphs—and penned it all down in his stunning poetry collection, “A Tangled Lineage.” From being outed in high school to navigating family dynamics and transitioning in his late 20s, Jay's story is a rollercoaster of resilience and a whole lot of heart. You'll hear how he found acceptance from his early 60s father and 94-year-old grandma, tied the knot with the love of his life, and now shares his wisdom in a small town he has zero intentions of leaving. That's right! It DOES get better but on your own terms. Jay's not going anywhere, and Indiana, PA will be better for it! This is not just a podcast—it's a lesson in the power of acceptance, love, and the beautiful mess of being human in a complicated world. So, get ready to be schooled in the best way possible! Your hosts for this episode are, Robert Canipe, Publisher, RedHawk Publications, and Patty Thompson, Acquisitions Editor, RedHawk Publications Check out Jay’s book, “A Tangled Lineage,” here! Reside in Indiana, PA? Mark your calendars for a not-to-be-missed event: Jay Orlando's book release on Tuesday, June 18th, from 5 pm to 8 pm at Spaghetti Benders, 563 Philadelphia St, Indiana, PA. Be there to celebrate the culmination of his poetic journey and show your support for this local talent. And buy all your Redhawk Publications books here: Please FOLLOW, SHARE, LIKE, & SUBSCRIBE to RedPubPod to show your love for poetry because select words in unique order placed by poets matter! Check out our Facebook page for our latest releases and featured events #RedPubPod #RedhawkPublications #Jay Orlando #ATangledLineage #Poets #Poetry #Poems #Writing #Authors #PennsylvaniaWriters #Appalachia #AppalachianPoets #LGBTQPoets #LGBTQWriters #TransMale #TransPoets #Pride Month #GayPrideMonth #PoetryForPride #podcasts #IndianaPA #SpaghettiBenders See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What a fun episode we have in store for you today! We're thrilled to welcome Redhawk Publications director, Richard Eller, and his wife, co-author, Claudia Ward as our special guests! Tim Peeler, the chief editor at Redhawk Publications, moderates the conversation as we delve into the captivating world of their latest book, "Tell Us, Marcellus." Set against the backdrop of Western Piedmont North Carolina History, this book is the second installment in a series focused on the Harper House nestled in Downton Hickory. Richard Eller takes us on a journey through time, recounting the lives of the families who once called this historic residence home. But what sets this episode apart is Claudia's meticulous research, bringing to life the voice of a Victorian woman like never before. Through her dedication, we uncover the remarkable story of Elizabeth Camp Denison Rutherford, a woman of privilege and intellect who fearlessly navigated the conventions of her time. Who knew she'd even dare to secure a prenuptial agreement, a rarity in those days, let alone initiated by a woman? Meanwhile, Richard paints a vivid portrait of Marcellus Thornton, a man of many talents and quirks, whose colorful life and marriage to Elizabeth provide endless intrigue. From his journalistic endeavors to his knack for spending Elizabeth's fortune, Marcellus's tale is nothing short of a fun engaging read. It's clear that Claudia and Richard poured their hearts and souls into crafting this compelling narrative, and we're fortunate to witness their boundless enthusiasm firsthand. "Tell Us, Marcellus" is more than just a book; it's a treasure trove of insights into a bygone era, shedding light on the complexities of love, ambition, and history. So sit back, relax, and join us as we embark on this remarkable journey through time. Get your copy of the book here Buy all your Redhawk Publications books here REDHAWK PUBLICATIONS HOSTS: Richard Eller, Executive Director -- Redhawk Publications Tim Peeler, Chief Editor -- Redhawk Publications Please FOLLOW, SHARE, LIKE & SUBSCRIBE to RedPubPod to show your commitment to literacy because we live in a world that seems to be indifferent to reading. Check out our Facebook page for our latest releases and featured events: #RedPubPod #RedhawkPublications #North Carolina #Writing #Authors #NorthCarolinaWriters #WritingestState #ClaudiaWardEller #RichardEller #NorthCarolinaHistory #History #USHistory #Harper House #HickoryNC #TellUsMarcellus See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If it is April, it is National Poetry Month! Welcome to this auspicious April episode of RedPubPod as we have a chat with guest and poet, Ms. Beth Copeland. "Shibori Blue - Thirty-six Views of The Peak" is Beth's fourth published collection. It was great having Beth in our studio today as we discussed many things, including her travels as a youth with her missionary parents. Born in Japan, Beth also traveled to India and spent most of her adult life in the Midwest and in the Carolinas. As Beth says herself, the mountains are in her DNA, and so it is no surprise that she sees comparisons between "The Peak" which is the tallest mountain located in North Carolina's Ashe County, and Japan's Mt. Fuji. Her most recent collection is an ode to The Peak and Mt Fuji and is written in "Tanka" format. Listeners will learn the definition of Tanka as well as her inspiration, early 19th century artist, Katsushika Hokusai. The photos that accompany each poem are of The Peak in all four seasons. You’ll hear Beth read some of her poems, too. You'll hear some discussion on poetry and spoken word and what is the future of poetry. Fascinating discussion from a unique woman. Get your copy of the book here Buy all your Redhawk Publications books here Please FOLLOW, SHARE, LIKE & SUBSCRIBE to RedPubPod to show your commitment to literacy because we live in a world that seems to be indifferent to reading. Check out our Facebook page for our latest releases and featured events! REDHAWK PUBLICATIONS HOSTS: Richard Eller, Executive Director -- Redhawk Publications Robert Canipe, Publisher -- Redhawk Publications Patricia Thompson, Acquisition Editor -- Redhawk Publications #RedPubPod #RedhawkPublications #NorthCarolina #Appalachian #Mountains #Writing #Authors #Poetry #Poems, #Poet #Poets #MountainLife #NorthCarolinaWriters #WritingestState #BethCopeland #AsheCounty #ThePeak #MtFuji #Tanka #Haiku #NationalPoetryMonth See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to our March 2024 edition of RedPubPod! Just when you think, ‘can they keep doing these podcasts?’ Redhawk Publications is here to say… “YUP!” Today our guest is Marion, NC poet, Julia Nunnally Duncan. Having written 11 books, Redhawk Publications is proud to publish her newest poetry collection, “When Time Was Suspended". Not unlike many of our Appalachian-based authors, Julia’s poetry has the ‘Western NC Mountain’ stamp on it. What makes this collection truly unique, however, is that not only covers her family’s lore in poetic form, but it always unapologetically displays the grittier side of mountain life. An entire section of the book contains ekphrastic poetry that reflects on photographs of injured soldiers during the US Civil War. You have to admit, that’s a step beyond! And, yet Julia pulls it off! Reading her historical-based poetry you are transported to another time. You have empathy for the injured and oftentimes time physically disfigured young men. You’ll hear Julia read some of her poems, too. Julia is a delightful guest and we look forward to hearing the rest of her stories in the years to come. Get your copy of “When Time Was Suspended" here: Robert Canipe, Publisher -- Redhawk Publications Richard Eller, Executive Director -- Redhawk Publications Patricia Thompson, Acquisition Editor -- Redhawk Publications Buy all your Redhawk Publications books here! Please FOLLOW, SHARE, LIKE & SUBSCRIBE to RedPubPod to show your commitment to literacy because we live in a world that seems to be indifferent to reading. #RedPubPod #RedhawkPublications #NorthCarolina #Appalachian #Mountains #Writing #Authors #Poetry #Poems #Poet #Poets #MountainLife #NorthCarolinaWriters #WritingestState #TasteFullBeans #CatawbaValleyCommunity College See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hey folks, it's that time again – new month, new author, and you guessed it, another episode of RedPubPod! We're hanging out at Redhawk Publications in the Foothills of Western North Carolina. On a clear day, you can catch a glimpse of the Appalachian Mountains right in our backyard. Many of our authors are all about those mountain vibes, putting pen to paper to spill the beans on their hometown love. Today, we have a writer who turned his upbringing into a down-to-earth memoir. Author Cecil Willis boasts an illustrious academic background, but his book puts a spotlight on his deep Appalachian roots. In his book published by Redhawk Publications, titled "Hillbilly Odyssey," Cecil shares what it was like to grow up in a less complex time in a Small Mountain Mill Town – which just happens to be the subtitle of his book. Initially written to provide an alternative view of Appalachian life following the fanfare J.D. Vance received for his book, "Hillbilly Elegy," Dr. Willis goes on to share how you can go home again; it’s just different. Listen to the author as he discusses what it’s like to have a mountain upbringing and how the values and ethics instilled in him have served him well on his journey through life. For those with sociology backgrounds, Dr. Willis offers a perspective on living, working, and raising a family in a true old-time company town, and he explores how these towns are faring in the 21st century His writing process, particularly with Redhawk Publications, is explored. Dr. Willis received a 'kind reject,' which means, 'We like what you have written, but you need a little more work to connect with readers.' Redhawk Publications issues this kind of rejection for manuscripts they are on the fence about. Undeterred and unphased, Dr. Willis delved deeper and enlisted the services of an exceptional editor, Tom Rash. He resubmitted his manuscript, and it was accepted for publication the second time. Ever resilient, these mountain folks! Cecil lives in Madison County in the town of Alexander in Madison County, North Carolina. The book might say Alexander County. Our bad! Just strike that out, would you? (Where is our PROOFREADER!?!) Dr. Willis proved to be a delightful guest that we hope gets to tell his engaging, as well as educational, life story to many! RedPubPod #029 hosts are: Robert Canipe, Publisher -- Redhawk Publications Richard Eller, Executive Director -- Redhawk Publications Patricia Thompson, Acquisition Editor -- Redhawk Publications Get your copy of "Hillbilly Odyssey" here! Buy all your Redhawk Publications books here! Please FOLLOW, SHARE, LIKE & SUBSCRIBE to RedPubPod to reduce interest rates and convince Clarence Thomas to take John Oliver up on his offer. Worse things have been wished for. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“The Characters write their own story. I don’t tell them where to go and what to do. They tell me what to write…” Welcome to our first episode of RedPubPod in 2024! This edition is a true gem. Our spotlight is on author and poet Les Brown, a North Carolina native with roots deeply embedded in the Appalachian soil. In his latest book published by Redhawk Publications, "Iron Bridge Sunday and Other Stories," Les takes us on a journey through the pages of his rich North Carolina mountains background. These aren't just stories; they are small literary gifts meticulously crafted with a perfect blend of storytelling finesse and authentic dialogue. But here's the intriguing part – these tales, although fictionalized, are woven with the threads of truth drawn from the tapestry of Les's own family folklore. Hailing from the town of North Cove, North Carolina, Les brings to life the essence of his ancestral roots, sharing narratives passed down through generations. Some stories are filled with slapstick humor. Others are tragic and bittersweet. All tell the stories of universal appeal. What happened back in the day are things that happen today. Join us as we delve not only into what inspires Les to write, but also his writing process. You will hear Les read a short passage from one of his short stories as well, which is a true treasure. His dialogue truly comes to life as he reads from the story, ‘Poker Game.’ Les and his wife, renowned North Carolina poet, Joyce Compton Brown, currently live in Troutman, NC and both will always claim North Carolina’s mountains, home. RedPubPod Hosts in this episode are: Richard Eller, Executive Director -- Redhawk Publications Patricia Thompson, Acquisition Editor -- Redhawk Publications Tim Peller, Chief Editor - Redhawk Publications Buy your copy of Les Brown's "Iron Bridge Sunday and Other Stories" Buy all your Redhawk Publications books here! Please FOLLOW, SHARE, LIKE & SUBSCRIBE to RedPubPod to cure climate change and create world peace. Hey – it could happen! You have to believe, folks! #RedPubPod #RedhawkPublications #NorthCarolina #Appalachian #Mountains #Writing #Authors #shortstories #folklore #Poetry #Poems #NorthCarolinaWriters #WritingestState #LesBrown #JoyceComptonBrown #RonRash #LeeSmith #TommyHays #AppalachianWritersWorkshop #Hindman Settlement School See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

'Tis the season, y'all! It's RedPubPod's End of Year 2023 Wrap-Up Edition! Lots of books are mentioned in this podcast episode. Learn about what we have published, which books are up for end-of-year awards, how not to get ripped off when publishing your book, a nice little discount code to get you 20% off of all books, plus what new titles are up on deck for 2024! Keep in mind this episode was taped before we finished a few books, so here are some updates: - Code for a 20% discount is XMAS20 here! - Grayson Sigmon’s event has passed but you can still get the book at our website. - Scott Owens and C. Joe Young's book is out now! Join them 12/12 at Poetry Hickory to get your copy signed. - We will have published about 34 books in 2023. Not too shabby, and great books, too! - Want to donate to the Thomas W. Dana Book Series & Scholarship Fund? Contact Jennifer Jones at jjones555@cvcc.edu - You can donate to Redhawk Publications, too! We are your favorite non-profit community college literary press after all. Tip us out so that we can continue to make you proud in the years to come. Thanks for being on this ride with us in 2023. We look forward to the upcoming year, too: So much more in 2024. That's our motto! Happiest of holidays and a bright new year to you all! - Richard, Robert, Patty and Mel Buy all your Redhawk Publications books here! Please FORWARD, LIKE, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE to RedPubPod to cure the world’s many ills! Today’s Redhawk Publications Host: Robert Canipe, Publisher -- Redhawk Publications Guests: Richard Eller, Executive Director -- Redhawk Publications, Patricia Thompson, Acquisition Editor -- Redhawk Publications, Melanie Zimmerman, Graphic Artist Editor -- Redhawk Publications See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

... The Ultimate Love Song to a Small Southern Town in Poetry & Photography Join us in this engaging podcast as we probe into the creative minds of North Carolina’s renowned poet Scott Owens and acclaimed photographer C. Joe Young. Joining forces once again, they have created a heartfelt book brimming with evocative poems and stunning photographs entitled, “‘Round Here.” Together, they weave a tapestry of inspiration and admiration for this cherished locale, which holds a special place in the hearts of those who grew up there or are current residents. Both Joe and Scott share the transformative power of time in old towns: Poems like "Used To" eloquently reflect upon the changes that have taken place, from forgotten stores to bygone movie theaters. Through lively and engaging discussions, gain insight into the artistic processes behind both the written word and visual expression. And if you find yourself in North Carolina, mark your calendar for the official book launch and reading on December 12th at Taste Full Beans Coffeehouse, as part of the Poetry Hickory event series. It starts at 6:15 pm and the book will be available for purchase and Joe will also sell his photos! Celebrating its 18th year, Poetry Hickory invites you to share your own poetic voice during the open mic segment of the evening. Admission is free, so come and be part of this nurturing community. Visit Taste Full Beans Coffeehouse and get your copy in person or to order 'Round Here online Buy all your Redhawk Publications books here Please FOLLOW, SHARE, LIKE & SUBSCRIBE to RedPubPod to cure the world’s decidedly growing number of ills! RedPubPod Hosts for this episode are: Robert Canipe, Publisher -- Redhawk Publications, Melanie Zimmerman See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You never know what you will learn listening to a RedPubPod episode. Not only do we have the distinct honor of interviewing San Francisco Bay native and current Hendersonville, NC resident, Tony Robles, but we also learn about old Flintstone references. If ever there was someone worthy of the title Grand Poobah, it’s Tony. And while we joke, you can’t deny that Tony has a sublime connection with the sacredness of the ordinary. He reminds you, that even donations to a thrift shop, are unique and have had their own journeys. Tony teaches about assumptions and honoring others and things, as shown in his poetry in Thrift Store Metamorphosis. Through his poetry, you learn about human nature, all from his observational deck, working at a thrift shop in intake of donated goods. Tony comes with serious street cred as a People’s Poet: He was short list nominated for Poet Laureate of San Francisco in 2017 and is a two-time Push Cart Prize nominee. He received his MFA in creative writing from Vermont College of Fine Arts this past summer. His heart might be still in the hills of San Francisco but the tentacles of the North Carolina mountains are slowly capturing his soul, and we the reader are better for his ability to be bi-coastal. Tony understands roots and enjoys crossing cultures. Yes, he exemplifies being present and gets it across in the most accessible of prose. We hope you will give this a listen, and we know you will dig what he is putting down. Learn more about Tony here: Tony Robles, The People’s Poet, MFA Get your copy of Thrift Store Metamorphosis here! Buy all your Redhawk Publications books here! Please FOLLOW, SHARE, LIKE & SUBSCRIBE to RedPubPod to cure the world’s decidedly growing number of ills! RedPubPod Hosts for this episode are: Robert Canipe, Publisher -- Redhawk Publications and Patricia Thompson, Acquisitions Editor -- Redhawk Publications See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to RedPubPod’s episode featuring Ken Harbert, a Pittsburgh native with a poetic soul and an extraordinary life journey. In his inspiring collection of poems entitled "Our Paths in Life," Ken shares a love song to his experiences, the places he's been, and the remarkable people he's encountered along the way. Prepare to embark on a poetic adventure unlike any other, as Ken's background defies the conventions of a typical poet. Ken's diverse range of professional roles, from serving as a medical marine corps officer to being a nurse, higher education instructor, doctorate degree holder, physician's assistant, disaster medicine practitioner, trauma team member, behavioral therapist, and psychiatrist (among many others), showcases his extensive healthcare practitioner background. Yes, you heard it right—Ken is not only a veteran but also a talented poet. Join us as we delve not only into what inspired Ken to start writing but we also discover the incredible 9/11 response teams he assembled. You'll have the pleasure of hearing Ken read a few of his thought-provoking poems. Throughout the conversation, you'll come to appreciate the profound connection between writing and Ken's background in healthcare, particularly in trauma. Prepare to be moved as we explore the healing power of words and the beautiful bonds formed through shared experiences. Ken and his wife have now settled in the Foothills of North Carolina, and he has several exciting upcoming events on the horizon. Check them out if you can: Oct. 14th, 2023 at Tybrisa Books in Lenoir, NC from 11am – 3pm Nov. 7th, 2023 at the Patrick Beaver Memorial Library in Hickory, NC from 6pm – 7pm Nov. 11th, 2023 at the Veterans Memorial Garden at the Stead Center in Durham, NC from 5pm – 6pm Get your copy of the book here! Today’s Redhawk Publications Hosts: Richard Eller, Executive Director, Patricia Thompson, Acquisition Editor Buy all your Redhawk Publications books here! Please SHARE, LIKE & SUBSCRIBE to RedPubPod to cure the world’s decidedly growing number of ills! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sherrie Hartsoe Sigmon knows the importance of this phrase more than anyone. She grew up in Rhodhiss, North Carolina. Her voice is formed there, and when you combine her passion for her hometown, and her superb writing and research skills, you get the penultimate history of a small village town that is uniquely located in two counties where a river runs through it. Today’s podcast we welcome author Sherrie Hartsoe Sigmon and her new book, Weaving the Heart Threads of a Mill Village: Rhodhiss North Carolina as well as Rhodhiss Town Manager, Rick Justice. If you don’t live in the Foothills of North Carolina, you may not have heard of Rhodhiss before. And if you live in the Foothills, you may have taken glee in poking fun of the little town. But this book dispels the myth that Rhodhiss is a step-child living in the shadow of Hickory, Morganton, and Lenoir! Rhodhiss might be small, but it has a sizeable number of unique attributes: It’s in two counties, Burke and Caldwell It was 100% owned by Duke Power in the early 20th century It was the first town in North Carolina with 100% electrified homes by 1926 Rhodhiss is extraordinarily known for having manufactured the American Flag that flies on the moon! Rhodhiss will be celebrating their 120th Anniversary Celebration of Rhodhiss, North Carolina. It will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at 317 Magnolia Street, Rhodhiss, NC from Noon until 6:00 PM. Get your copy of the book here! Buy all your Redhawk Publications books here! Redhawk Publications Host: Richard Eller, Executive Director -- Redhawk Publications Please SHARE, LIKE & SUBSCRIBE to RedPubPod to cure the world’s decidedly growing number of ills! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome! This pod is personal. This unique podcast is where the RP staff get to riff a bit, and poke fun at one another while sharing about interesting books we have done and a few that are in the pipeline. We get reflective while having a positive outlook about our accomplishments in the first half of 2023! You will want to listen to this one to learn about our newer books out now, a few books to come soon, a few upcoming events to attend, plus a brand-new book series named after the founder of Catawba Valley Community College, the Thomas W. Dana, Jr. Scholarship and Fund. Big highlight of this episode if you like books: Head to our website and find the "DONATION" button and if you donate at least $50, get the book of your choice! That's a big deal. Also, be sure to join the Redhawk Publications crew in person if you live in the Foothills of NC Area: Aug. 10th, THU, 6pm - 7pm at the Patrick Beaver Memorial Library in Hickory, NC. We will have select books available for purchase, in addition to releasing a special discount code for attendees to use only. If you come, you can get a significant discount on our entire backlist catalog when you order online! Buy all your Redhawk Publications books here: Please SHARE, LIKE & SUBSCRIBE to RedPubPod to cure the world’s ills! Redhawk Publications is: Robert Canipe, Publisher, -- Redhawk Publications Richard Eller, Executive Director -- Redhawk Publications Patricia Thompson, Acquisitions Editor -- Redhawk Publications Melanie Zimmerman, Graphic Artist Editor -- Redhawk Publications See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to a Special Furniture Manufacturing Edition of Redhawk Publication's podcast, REDPUBPOD! Redhawk Publications' newest book, Richard Eller’s “Well Crafted: The History of Furniture Manufacturing in Western North Carolina” has put a spotlight not just on owners and upper management, but also on the workers that make the industry tick! In this episode of RedPubPod, Richard interviews former furniture worker Mr. Romey Church. Romey and his mother (and his father and his grandfather!) all worked in furniture, some longer than others. His mother, Ruth Church, worked at Singer Furniture from the age of 16 back in 1944, following her dad’s footsteps. She would work, leave and then return while her family was growing but she put in about 25 years or so in furniture manufacturing. Richard is mindful to remind Romey and listeners that it was not just men that worked in furniture manufacturing. Many women did, too, and it is mentioned in the book. Romey discusses his time working at Signer Furniture as well. Funny, harmless pranks are detailed, giving us all the impression that the workers had a sense of humor and enjoyed one another. The folks working in the plant became work family and deep friendships were made. This podcast is engaging. You learn what it was like working in furniture manufacturing back in the day. You also realize that “working in the shop” was an eventual occupation for many in the Western North Carolina industry. Some stayed longer than others, but this region of North Carolina can be fortunate that it provided livelihoods for many families. Buy your copy of Richard Eller’s “Well-Crafted” here: https://tinyurl.com/RichardEllerWellCrafted Please SHARE, LIKE & SUBSCRIBE to RedPubPod to cure the world’s ills! Redhawk Publications Host: Richard Eller, Engineer -- Redhawk Publications See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.