Real Talk and Fiction

In this raw and unfiltered episode, Eddie Bowers takes a sledgehammer to the shiny façade of hustle culture. You've been told to “rise and grind,” to sacrifice sleep, relationships, and your sanity all in the name of success. But what if that whole mindset is a lie? What if it’s killing you slowly—and calling it ambition? Eddie’s not holding back as he shares real stories from his own life: bu...

Episode 1 – The Lie of “The Self-Help Industry” Welcome to This Ain’t Therapy , a raw, no-bullshit series from Real Talk and Fiction with your host, Eddie Bowers. In this opening episode, “The Lie of ‘The Self-Help Industry,’” we rip the mask off the billion-dollar industry selling feel-good fluff and empty motivation. Eddie breaks down how pain gets packaged and sold back to the people living it...

You’re not healing if you’re still hiding. You’re not growing if it’s all just performance. In this episode, I open up about the inspiration behind my new book Confusing Teleportation — a title born from something my son said at eight years old. It’s his birthday today, and the truth in his words still hits harder than most “self-help” advice out there. Then, we go in deep. This episode isn’t for...

In this episode, I sit down with independent author Daniel Camposano to talk about his debut novel, The Ones Left Behind, and his personal journey behind it. We dive into his writing process, what inspired his story, and how themes of mental health are thoughtfully woven throughout his work. Daniel opens up about the emotional weight behind his characters and how storytelling has become both a cre...

In this episode, I sit down with K.J. Pritchett , author of The Swansgrove Chronicles , to discuss her journey as an indie writer, her love for YA fantasy, and the deeper themes she weaves into her books—including political intrigue, mental health, and the power of community. We talk about her writing process, the inspiration behind her stories, and how she brings a unique Pennsylvania influence i...

Ever thought about writing a book but didn’t know where to start? In this episode of Real Talk and Fiction , host Edward Bowers breaks down exactly what it takes to become an author—no fluff, no gatekeeping, just real, practical advice. From battling self-doubt and finishing that first draft to navigating editing, publishing, and selling your book, this episode covers everything you need to know....

In this candid and insightful episode, Ryan Schlip, owner of Critical Gains, joins me for a conversation about fitness, mental health, and overcoming life’s toughest challenges. We dive into how physical wellness can positively impact mental health, share personal stories about navigating life after divorce, and discuss the importance of boundaries, both in business and personal life. Ryan opens u...

Ever felt like your passion is wearing you down instead of lifting you up? In this raw and unfiltered episode, I dive into the dark side of creativity—burnout, mental exhaustion, and the struggle of juggling artistic ambition with real-life challenges. I open up about writing Nafal (a novel on the fall of Lucifer), co-authoring a self-help book, and navigating The Battle of 3030 , all while facing...

Welcome to Real Talk and Fiction , a podcast where we dive deep into the struggles men face that too often go unheard and ignored. Hosted by a man who's been through his own battles—facing divorce, personal demons, and the crushing weight of societal expectations—this show is all about breaking down the walls surrounding men’s mental health, suicide rates, and the silent burdens they carry. In...

In this deeply personal and thought-provoking podcast, join Eddie Bowers as they explore the complexities of happiness, mental health, and the human condition. Navigating life with depression, chronic illness, and the highs and lows of being 46 and single, each episode dives into the tough questions: Can happiness truly be achieved, or are we just searching for something that doesn’t exist? With h...

Think self-publishing is an easy path to success? Think again. In this raw and unfiltered episode of Real Talk and Fiction , I pull back the curtain on what it really takes to make money as an indie author. With over 15 years of experience and 14 published books on Amazon KDP, I break down the hard numbers , the real profit margins ($1-$5 per book!) , and the daily grind of trying to turn writing...

In this episode of Real Talk and Fiction , we dive into the first half of Chapter 1: The New Beginning . Join me as I bring the story to life, setting the stage for what’s to come. Tension builds, characters take shape, and the journey begins. Whether you’re here for the storytelling or just love getting lost in a good book, this episode is for you. Tune in, and let’s step into the world together.

Ever post something deep and get flooded with “You got this!” or “Stay strong” when you weren’t even asking for help? Meanwhile, when you actually do need someone to listen—crickets. In this episode of Calm Down, It’s Just a Poem , I talk about the weird way people react to online posts, why they jump in when you don’t need them, and why they vanish when you do. Let’s break down the disconnect bet...

In this episode of Real Talk and Fiction , I want to talk about something "me related"—something I’ve been struggling with. After 15 years of writing, putting my work out there, and grinding endlessly, I’m starting to ask myself: Why am I doing this? Is it truly about the love of storytelling, or have I been chasing fame and recognition all along? I’ve preached for so long that it’s not...

We’ve all been there—working hard, chasing a dream, and feeling like we’re getting nowhere. The frustration, the doubt, the exhaustion—it’s enough to make anyone want to quit. But here’s the truth: success isn’t just about talent; it’s about grit, consistency, and refusing to give up. In this episode, I get real about my own struggles as a writer for the past 15 years—fighting to break through, de...

Artificial Intelligence isn’t just a futuristic concept—it’s already shaping the way we live, work, and create. From Netflix recommendations and voice assistants to AI-generated art and music, we interact with AI every day—often without realizing it. But as AI continues to evolve, what does this mean for creative industries? Will AI enhance human creativity or replace it? In this episode, we explo...

I’m not here for fame. I don’t get paid for this. And honestly, starting a podcast solo comes with its own set of doubts and stigmas. But I’m doing this anyway—because sometimes, you just need a space to be real. In this episode, I talk about why I started this podcast, the fear of putting myself out there, and the struggle of feeling like I have something to say, even if no one’s listening yet. I...

"Some places never let you go. Some nightmares don’t fade—they wait." In this special episode of Real Talk and Fiction , I’m bringing you a chilling prologue from my upcoming horror novel, The Forest Devours . A young boy, Caleb Voss, crosses the forbidden tree line one fateful night—only to discover that the forest has been waiting for him all along. The whispers call his name, the shad...

In this first episode of Real Talk and Fiction , host Edward (Eddie) Bowers introduces the podcast, setting the stage for a space where real conversations on mental health and life’s struggles are paired with the creativity of storytelling. Get to know the host, the inspiration behind the podcast, and what to expect in future episodes. Starting the conversation, one story at a time.