Building Worlds, Breaking Rules: The Real Story Behind Writing and Publishing

The Book She Never Planned to Write

When A-M Mawhiney retired after a 40-year career as a social worker and university professor, she never expected to become a novelist. During the COVID lockdown, what began as an attempt at journaling turned into a creative journey that produced three books and an entirely new chapter of life. In this episode, A-M Mawhiney shares how her characters often surprise her, why she chose to write hopeful science fiction and fantasy rather than dystopian futures, and how a pair of determined preteens inspired her second novel. She also reflects on growing up in Sudbury, Ontario, witnessing one of the world's most remarkable environmental recoveries, and why community collaboration remains one of her greatest sources of hope. It's a conversation about creativity, reinvention, resilience, and the transformative power of stories.

Walking Between Worlds: One Man’s Journey Through Culture, Crisis, and Connection

What does it mean to truly find home—not just in a place, but in a culture, a calling, and within yourself? In this powerful episode of The Molten Truth, Zoey sits down with Scott Wooster, a South Dakota native whose life journey weaves together family legacy, personal struggle, and deep connection to Lakota culture. What begins as a conversation about his books quickly unfolds into something much deeper: a story of transformation. Scott shares how decades of working with Native youth, marrying into a Lakota family, and navigating profound personal challenges—including addiction, anxiety, grief, and raising children with chronic illness—led him down an unexpected path of healing. Through ceremonies, storytelling, and relationships that reshaped his worldview, he discovered meaning in places he never anticipated. This episode dives into: * The generational loss—and revival—of Indigenous culture * The emotional weight of identity, belonging, and inherited trauma * How storytelling can heal both individuals and communities * The unexpected lessons found in hardship, faith, and human connection Raw, reflective, and deeply human, this conversation is a reminder that healing doesn’t come from a single moment—it’s a journey shaped by the people we meet, the stories we carry, and the courage to keep going.

The Power of Reinvention: Caramel Lucas on Creativity, Healing, and Hustle

In this deeply powerful episode of The Molten Truth, host Zoey Michaels sits down with serial entrepreneur and creative force Caramel Lucas. From a childhood shaped by trauma to building a life fueled by purpose, Caramel shares her journey through writing, comedy, podcasting, and entrepreneurship. She opens up about the importance of therapy, breaking generational cycles, and transforming pain into power. With honesty and heart, this conversation explores what it means to heal, grow, and inspire others—proving that your past doesn’t define you, but your purpose can. CaramelLucas.net

From Texas Ranch to Scottish Highlands: The Unexpected Journey of Ben Leman

In this episode of The Molten Truth, host Zoey Michaels sits down with first-time guest Ben Leman—an entrepreneur, former Texas county judge and state representative, rancher, and now debut novelist. Ben shares his remarkable path from building a successful manufacturing business from his mother’s garage to serving a decade in public office, all while raising a family and living the rugged ranch life in Central Texas. Now stepping into the literary world, Ben discusses his upcoming novel Between the Times, the first installment in his Forged in Blood trilogy. Set in 1640s Scotland, the story explores identity, loyalty, and transformation through the lens of a Highland clan facing a changing world. With rich historical themes and deeply human conflicts, Ben reveals how his own life experiences shaped the narrative. Despite some technical hiccups during the recording, this conversation offers an authentic and engaging introduction to a multifaceted guest whose life story is as compelling as the fiction he writes.

Joy in Simple Pleasures

The conversation covers topics related to joy, family, and the impact of art on personal growth. Takeaways * Joy can be found in spending time with loved ones and enjoying family moments. * Engaging in art and creative expression can contribute to personal growth and development. Chapters * 00:00 Finding Joy in Everyday Moments