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.