In this episode of Imposter Hour, Vanessa Lillie, author of Blood Sisters, dives deep into the complexities of writing diverse characters and battling imposter syndrome. She unpacks the challenges of crafting a character like Sid—a white-passing Cherokee two-spirit working for the Bureau of Indian Affairs—and the delicate balance between storytelling and educating readers. Vanessa sheds light on the significance of authentic representation, the importance of uplifting Indigenous voices, and her journey of infusing vital themes into her narrative without sacrificing readability.

Vanessa also opens up about her own experience as a writer, from navigating shifts in agents and editors to overcoming self-doubt, and shares how trusting oneself is key to finding joy in the writing process. We delve into the themes of colonialism, disconnection, and the path to healing that flow through her work, offering a profound exploration of returning to Indigenous beliefs. With a wealth of insight on marketing, connecting with readers through social media, and maintaining authenticity, this episode is a must-listen for creatives seeking inspiration and guidance.

In this episode, Liz and Greg chat with author John Fram about the duality of the polished "author self" vs. the vulnerable "writer self." They dive into the challenges of book tours, writing with authenticity, and navigating imposter syndrome. John shares his approach to blending supernatural elements with rich character development, including queer representation and the tension between religious faith and hypocrisy.

John explores the struggles of being labeled a horror novelist, the craft of writing locked-door mysteries, and how empathy and history shape compelling narratives. John’s insights on finding one's voice, balancing plot and character, and embracing the creative process offer listeners a fresh perspective on storytelling. Plus, he teases upcoming projects!

In this episode of Imposter Hour with Liz and Greg, we sit down with the dynamic duo Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke, best friends, and co-authors who have been navigating the ups and downs of the publishing world together for over 30 years. They’ve written eight novels, including the bestseller The Good Widow, and recently released Forever Hold Your Peace. Liz and Lisa also host their own podcast, We Fight So You Don’t Have To: Lessons from a 30-Year Friendship.

Join us as Liz and Lisa share the story of how their creative partnership began in high school and evolved over the years, including their journey from writing a one-act play in college to becoming successful authors. They dive into the challenges and joys of co-writing, the importance of having a creative counterpart, and how they’ve navigated the complexities of the publishing industry.

We discuss the impact of social media on writers’ mental health, the ever-present imposter syndrome, and how they’ve learned to balance the demands of their writing careers with their personal lives. Liz and Lisa offer candid advice for both new and seasoned authors, emphasizing the importance of stepping back when needed and focusing on the joy of writing.

The conversation is filled with humor, insight, and the warmth that comes from decades of friendship and collaboration. Whether you’re a writer, a reader, or just someone who loves a good story, this episode is sure to resonate.

In this episode, Liz and Greg chat with Gare Billings, a bookstagrammer, content creator, and avid reader, about imposter syndrome and his journey into reviewing books. We delve into Gare's unique virtual casting for books, his love for thrillers and horror, and his recent exploration of romance novels. Gare talks about the importance of representation in literature and the supportive nature of the online community. Gare shares his favorite imposter characters and his preferences for realistic and bleak endings in thrillers. Don't miss this engaging episode filled with insights into the world of Bookstagram, the allure of imposter characters, and the power of diverse representation in literature.

In this captivating episode, we are joined by the brilliant Wanda M. Morris, acclaimed author of All Her Little Secrets, Anywhere You Run, and What You Leave Behind. Wanda shares her journey from a corporate lawyer to an award-winning thriller writer, revealing the challenges and triumphs she faced along the way.

We dive into the themes that resonate deeply in Wanda’s work, including imposter syndrome, racial and social inequalities, and the complexities of grief. Wanda opens up about her experience with imposter syndrome, both personally and as it relates to her characters. She also discusses the importance of authenticity in writing and how she channels her personal experiences and observations into her compelling narratives.

Wanda offers a behind-the-scenes look at how she crafts her settings as vivid characters, particularly her deep connection to the South and its influence on her storytelling. From the lush landscapes of low country Georgia to the historical backdrop of Mississippi, Wanda paints a rich and immersive picture that transports readers into her world.

This episode also touches on Wanda’s experience writing about generational trauma, family secrets, and the intricate dance between justice and morality. Plus, we explore the lighter side of her writing, including her attempts at weaving humor and romance into her thrillers.

Don’t miss this insightful and inspiring conversation.

In this episode, Halley Sutton, acclaimed author of The Lady Upstairs and The Hurricane Blonde, shares her journey with imposter syndrome and the themes in her novels. She discusses the challenges of embracing the writer's identity and how imposter syndrome appears in her characters. Explore Hollywood's dark side, tabloid culture, and the power of narrative in shaping perceptions. Halley examines the complexities of separating art from the artist and the industry's enabling of abusive behavior. Halley also talks about her transition from publishing to full-time writing, the value of an MFA, and the importance of reading widely across genres. Don't miss this insightful conversation with one of today's most thought-provoking authors!

In this captivating episode, we sit down with Susan Ouellette, a former CIA intelligence analyst and the author of the Wayward Spy trilogy. Susan opens up about her fascinating career in intelligence, her struggle with imposter syndrome, and her love for mystery and thriller novels. She delves into her deep-rooted fascination with the Soviet Union and shares how she transitioned from a high-stakes career in intelligence to the world of fiction writing. Susan reveals her meticulous process for crafting complex characters and the unique challenges of writing fiction when reality often outstrips the imagination. Susan also debunks common spy culture tropes in media, offering a more authentic look at the world of espionage. Tune in for an episode brimming with intrigue, real-world insights, and the art of storytelling from a true intelligence expert turned novelist.

In this episode, we dive deep with Lee Matthew Goldberg, author of 14 novels, as he reveals his unique writing process and inspiration from Central Park. Discover his serene writing spot and how nature fuels his creativity. Lee discusses navigating imposter syndrome, especially as one of two authors with the same name. We unpack how the backdrop of the 1980s post-stock market crash inspired his latest book, which blends whimsical elements with themes of family and capitalism. This episode is a must-listen for insights into the creative process, the challenges of writing, and the power of storytelling.