The StoryCentric Podcast

This week, Andrew sat down with Jessica Belbin, an experienced improv facilitator from The Kinkonauts in Calgary. Jessica shares her fascinating journey through storytelling, from her comedic awakening in Montreal to building inclusive communities through improv. We explore the dichotomy of stand-up and improv comedy, discuss how performance art builds confidence, and delve into comedy's surpr...

Join Andrew for an inspiring conversation with Peter Kaz, the dynamic co-founder of Millennium Valley Productions. As a seasoned marketing expert, event planner, producer, and talent manager, Peter shares his fascinating journey from the bustling streets of New York to becoming a creative catalyst in the Okanagan Valley. Learn how he balances chaos and creativity while building vibrant communities...

In Part 2 of my conversation with Shah James, we explore the evolving world of audiobook production and narration. Shah shares valuable insights about the current audiobook industry landscape, discusses the emerging impact of AI technology on both audiobook creation and writing, and addresses the various challenges faced by professionals in the field. Whether you're an author looking to adapt...

Join us for an extremely vocal convo with Shah James, voice over artist and audiobook narrator. In this first part, Shah shares his fascinating transition from the bright lights of Hollywood to building a successful career from his home recording studio in Ontario. We explore the intimate world of voice acting, dive into storytelling techniques unique to audio performance, and discuss how he bring...

In Part 2 of my conversation with Mira Landry, we explore her journey as a writer, from early literary influences to finding her voice. Mira shares candid insights about the publishing industry, discusses the importance of building a strong writing community, and offers valuable advice for both aspiring authors and future literary agents. Learn more about Mira Landry Become a Member of Andrew Buck...

We welcome literary agent, author, and good friend Mira Landry to the podcast! We briefly discuss the sugar content of ketchup before delving into Mira’s querying journey, securing a literary agent, injuries and adventures in snowboarding, life changes and new beginnings, background and education, cultural experiences and travel adventures, the power of storytelling in modern cinema, and more! Lea...

In this special BFF Edition, Andrew and Finnian discuss their experience at the Greater Edmonton Teacher's Conference (GETCA), share exciting plans for the upcoming year, and preview upcoming classes and appearances. The duo also offers valuable advice for authors looking to expand their reach through speaking opportunities and educational engagements. Learn more about Finnian Burnett Become a...

In Part 2 of my conversation with Li Charmaine Anne, we delve deeper into their creative journey and professional insights. We explore their upcoming projects and writing process, including the development of their book Crash Landing. The discussion spans the differences between Canadian and US publishing landscapes, and how art intersects with community building. We also touch on the fascinating...

Join me for a fascinating conversation with Li Charmaine Anne (she/they), a Canadian writer and author of Crash Landing (Annick Press '24). In this episode, we explore their experiences growing up in Vancouver, their path to becoming a writer, and insights into the publishing process. We discuss the role of mentorship in her career, the significance of the Governor General's Award, and div...

In the thrilling conclusion of my conversation with Premee Mohamed, we dive deep into how the publishing industry has evolved in recent years. Premee shares fascinating insights about merging her scientific background with storytelling, discusses the authors and works that have shaped her unique voice in speculative fiction, and offers valuable perspectives on fostering meaningful connections with...

Join me for an enlightening conversation with Premee Mohamed, award-winning author of THE BUTCHER OF THE FOREST, as she shares her fascinating journey from scientist to full-time writer. In this episode, we explore her compelling body of work, discuss the unique challenges of her career transition (from scientist to full time author, or as she calls it “being unemployed”), navigate the complexitie...

In Part 2 of my conversation with Laura Meredith, we dive deep into the fascinating world of romance literature. Join us as we explore how the genre has evolved over time, examine the explosive growth of romantic fantasy, and discuss the delicate balance between meeting reader expectations and bringing fresh innovations to beloved tropes. Laura shares her insights on how writers can craft unique s...

I sat down with spicy romance author Laura Meredith to uncover her unique journey into writing. From discussing her villainous origin story to discussing the transformative impact of Fifty Shades of Gray, Laura shares candid insights about the romance publishing world. We explore the fascinating evolution of romance book covers (yes, we talk about Fabio!), navigate the challenges of publishing and...

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Join Finn and I for our New Year's BFF episode as we look to the future, share our writing and publishing goals for 2024, vaguely talk about a thing we can’t announce, and discuss the joys and challenges of teaching creative writing. Plus, we offer some heartfelt encouragement to help kickstart your creative journey this year. Learn more about Finnian Become a Member of Andrew Buck...

Merry Christmas to all the StoryCentric listeners that have helped make this podcast a success in 2024! In this special BFF edition, Finn and I get festive as we look back on the year, share the lessons we’ve learned, our highlights, the importance of community and connections as authors and creators, and more! We also mention tea, mental health, audiobooks, omelettes, and Miranda Krogstad (becaus...

In the second part of my conversation with Jessica, we explore the challenges of facing criticism as a writer and the importance of building resilience. Jessica shares her unique perspective on managing public perception, gives us a sneak peek into her potential upcoming writing projects, and offers invaluable advice for aspiring writers looking to share their own stories. Learn more about Jessica...

I enjoyed talking to bestselling memoirist Jessica Waite so much the first time around, I had to have her back to continue our convo about her writing experience and her book, THE WIDOW’S GUIDE TO DEAD BASTARDS. We explore her fascinating journey as a writer, from her earliest literary experiences to the deeply personal process of crafting her memoir. Jessica shares insights into the challenges of...

Welcome to the second part of the Art, Myth, Story Panel, recorded live on location in San Miguel de Allende at the Art of the Story Festival. The panelists dive deeper into storytelling through art, discussing painting for a modern audience, artistic interpretation, the sustainability of art, and the role of AI in the future of art. Learn more about Hope Palmer Learn more about Kate Van Doren Lea...

In October, Andrew travelled to San Miguel de Allende in Mexico to take part in the Art of the Story Festival. As part of the program, he moderated a panel titled ‘Art, Myth, Story’ with three phenomenal artists— Hope Palmer, Kate Van Doren, and Filippo Giusti. In this first half of the conversation, they discuss artistic expression and process, and also touch upon art therapy and dealing with tra...

Finnian and Andrew return from the Surrey International Writers' Conference, buzzing with excitement. They discuss the highlights of the event, including workshops, keynotes, karaoke, attendees, and Andrew’s nuts (snacks damnit! snacks!). Learn more about Finnian Become a Member of Andrew Buckley’s Patreon

Finnian and Andrew descend upon the Surrey International Writers’ Conference. Here they talk about the pre-conference vibe, what they’re most looking forward to, and how convenient it is to be living across the hall from each other. Come back for part 2 which will air in 2 weeks! Learn more about Finnian Become a Member of Andrew Buckley’s Patreon

I caught up with contemporary author Ali Bryan at When Words Collide 2024! We discussed crossing genres, her journey to publishing, moving from a corporate career to a creative one, how she reacted to one of her books being banned, and more! Learn more about Ali Get Tickets for When Words Collide 2025 Become a Member of Andrew Buckley’s Patreon

I met with Dave Sweet at When Words Collide 2024 to discuss his true crime stories, his podcast, his teaching, and his life as a homicide detective. Dave is such a great example of an author who has quite literally ‘been there, and done that’ and shares his experiences with the goal of creating a better world. Listen, learn, and enjoy! Learn more about Dave Get Tickets for When Words Collide 2025...

I caught up with Nicole Roche (Program Director for When Words Collide and AWCS) at WWC 2024. We chatted about the challenges of organizing such a large event, her ability to be a duck, writing romance, children’s books, and how insanely cool the writing community can be. Learn more about Nicole Get Tickets for When Words Collide 2025 Become a Member of Andrew Buckley’s Patreon

Author and magical unicorn Cait Gordon sat down with me at When Words Collide 2024 and was an utter delight. We discuss her comfortability in front of an audience, writing space opera and humour, dealing with disability, cosplaying as a fashionista dalek, and how Cait ‘accidentally’ wrote a book and met her publisher. Learn more about Cait Gordon Get Tickets for When Words Collide 2025 Become a Me...