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.net

https://gofund.me/7d99cd70

https://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.net

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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.

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