Sharing the Heart of the Matter

Episode 134: Perfect with P.J. Gudka

Looking for a compelling author interview and a great newpsychological thriller to add to your reading list? In this episode of Sharing the Heart of the Matter, P. J. Gudka joins us to discuss her debut novel, Perfect, a psychological domestic thriller centered on family secrets, generationaltrauma, perfectionism, and moral complexity. We talk about her transition from poetry to fiction, how she built layered and relatable characters, and why empathy matters so much in storytelling. P. J. also shares insights into the writing process, self-publishing, the power of the writing community, and what she’s working on next. If you enjoy book podcasts, author interviews, psychological thrillers, and conversations about creativity, this episode isone you won’t want to miss. Links for this episode: Transcript: Episode 134: Perfect with P.J. Gudka transcript [https://sharingtheheartofthematter.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/hotm_134_perfect_with_pj_gudka_transcript.pdf] Purchase "Perfect": Amazon.com: Perfect eBook : Gudka, P. J. : Kindle Store [https://www.amazon.com/Perfect-P-J-Gudka-ebook/dp/B0GS3RJJJC/ref=sr_1_1?crid=ONMYWQNI1JA5&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Ux_YNVcyfZy_FVbNTbjMcQ.V1sx9qS8yR7RkHSBou08d1iN9bWI8h692KA1A20Ehe0&dib_tag=se&keywords=perfect%2C+pooja+gudka&qid=1778184219&sprefix=perfect%2C+pp%2Caps%2C2471&sr=8-1] Pooja's Blog: Lifesfinewhine - The Life & Ramblings Of A Zillennial [https://lifesfinewhine.ca/] From the hosts: Vicki’s new book - a ghost story, Slivers [https://eckhartzpress.com/shop/slivers/]. Her book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue [https://eckhartzpress.com/shop/surviving-sue/]; Blog: https://victoriaponders.com/ [https://victoriaponders.com/] Wynne's blog: Surprised by Joy [https://wynneleon.com]and podcast: The Life of Try [https://open.spotify.com/show/0qInZdzg1Xn3Xac1IMh2z0?si=oFpnzjUbQ6C8VqmIty9u3g]

Episode 133: Shadow of the Deceiver with Dr. Wayne Runde

In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon talk with Wayne Runde. Wayne is an author, physician and veteran US Navy Commander. Wayne tells us about his book, Shadow of the Deceiver, the third installment in The Genesis Trust series. We hear about why he was called to start writing even with his busy schedule and a fascinating set of hobbies. We ask about the intersection of science, morality and humanity that is a cornerstone for his writing and stories. Wayne tell us where he finds inspirations for characters from his professional life and his personal interactions within his church community. This is a great episode with an author that has re-imagined a sci-fi classic through a meaningful lens. We know you’ll love it. Links for this episode: ⁠Wayne Runde's⁠ [https://waynerunde.com/] website Shadow of the Deceiver: The Genesis Trust, Book 3 on ⁠Amazon ⁠ [https://www.amazon.com/Shadow-Deceiver-Genesis-Trust-Book-ebook/dp/B0FXN5DG3D/ref=sr_1_2?crid=13EVOJECH6HIQ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.3VILkVKkiUXYuj2CtdgWrQ.PCNNKt1_p6i4RbDMfngC-9f7z6uHV3MuC6yH96scUb8&dib_tag=se&keywords=shadow+of+the+deceiver+the+genesis+trust%2C+book+3&nsdOptOutParam=true&qid=1773768300&sprefix=%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-2]and ⁠Barnes & Noble⁠ [https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/shadow-of-the-deceiver-wayne-runde/1148488463?ean=9798897856732] From the hosts: Vicki’s book about resilience and love: ⁠Surviving Sue⁠ [https://eckhartzpress.com/shop/surviving-sue/]; Blog: ⁠https://victoriaponders.com/⁠ [https://victoriaponders.com/] Wynne's blog: ⁠https://wynneleon.com ⁠ [https://wynneleon.com ]

Episode 132: South Side Memories with Gloria Golec

In this episode, hosts Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson engage with author Gloria Golec about her memoir, South Side Memories. The conversation explores themes of family, immigrant experiences, and the power of storytelling. Gloria shares insights on how her Polish heritage and family dynamics shaped her identity and writing journey. The discussion emphasizes the importance of preserving personal narratives, the emotional connections that come from sharing stories, and provides the inspiration for writing our own stories. Takeaways * The book is a reflection of the American dream and immigrant experiences. * Storytelling helps maintain connections to roots and loved ones. * Writing can be a therapeutic process for personal growth. * Family dynamics, especially gender roles, play a significant role in shaping identity. * Cherished memories can provide clarity and understanding of past relationships. * Cultural heritage is often intertwined with food traditions and family gatherings. * Teaching experiences can influence one's writing and storytelling approach. * Writing a memoir can be an emotional journey that brings past relationships closer. * Encouragement to start writing by focusing on one story at a time. * Sharing stories can inspire others and create a sense of community. Links for this episode: ⁠How To Share Snapshots of the American Dream transcript⁠ [https://wynneleon.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/how_to_share_the_american_dream.pdf] ⁠Gloria Golec's profile on Eckhartz Press⁠ [https://eckhartzpress.com/author/gloria-golec/] South Side Memories on ⁠Eckhartz Press⁠ [https://eckhartzpress.com/shop/south-side-memories/] From the hosts: Vicki’s book about resilience and love: ⁠Surviving Sue⁠ [https://eckhartzpress.com/shop/surviving-sue/]; Blog: ⁠https://victoriaponders.com/⁠ [https://victoriaponders.com/] My book about my beloved father: ⁠Finding My Father’s Faith⁠ [https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Fathers-Faith-Wynne-Leon/dp/1516803345/ref=sr_1_1?crid=Q3FPU6MJN01R&keywords=finding+my+father%27s+faith&qid=1692336805&sprefix=finding+my+father%27s%2Caps%2C146&sr=8-1]

Episode 131: Attacking the Dragon with Marc Ross

In this episode of 'How to Share', hosts Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson engage with author Marc Ross about his latest geopolitical thriller, 'Attacking the Dragon'. The conversation delves into the book's plot, which revolves around China's Belt and Road Initiative, and how Ross's background as a lawyer influenced his writing. They explore the complexities of Chinese politics, character development, and the nuances of storytelling, as well as Ross's personal journey from law to fiction writing. Takeaways: * Marc Ross's book 'Attacking the Dragon' explores China's geopolitical landscape. * The Belt and Road Initiative is a significant yet under-discussed topic. * Ross aims to portray China as a victim rather than an aggressor in his narrative. * His legal background provides a unique perspective on the thriller genre. * Character names in Chinese culture are complex but manageable for storytelling. * Ross's writing journey reflects a long-held dream to become an author. * He emphasizes the importance of creating unique protagonists in thrillers. * The art of storytelling involves engaging readers through vivid descriptions. * Ross enjoys the process of writing and values reader feedback. His experiences as a lawyer enrich his fictional narratives. Links for this Episode: Sharing the Heart of the Matter [https://sharingtheheartofthematter.com]Home A. Marc Ross's website: ⁠https://www.amarcross.com/index.html⁠ [https://www.amarcross.com/index.html] Attacking the Dragon on ⁠Barnes & Noble⁠ [https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/attacking-the-dragon-a-marc-ross/1149064713?ean=2940186158349] and ⁠Amazon⁠ [https://www.amazon.com/Attacking-Dragon-Marc-Ross/dp/1958914770/ref=sr_1_1?crid=G4BDVWY6Y6Q1&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.s_rvfdIL8zxjriyf5_uWog.muvqk-ieQYfMVstON4SfzUz4xenTx6ufQQCeLZGIBRc&dib_tag=se&keywords=attacking+the+dragon+by+a.+marc+ross&qid=1767733112&sprefix=attacking+the+dragon+%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-1] From the hosts: Vicki’s book about resilience and love: ⁠Surviving Sue⁠ [https://eckhartzpress.com/shop/surviving-sue/]; Blog: ⁠https://victoriaponders.com/⁠ [https://victoriaponders.com/] My book about my beloved father: ⁠Finding My Father’s Faith [https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Fathers-Faith-Wynne-Leon/dp/1516803345/ref=sr_1_1?crid=Q3FPU6MJN01R&keywords=finding+my+father%27s+faith&qid=1692336805&sprefix=finding+my+father%27s%2Caps%2C146&sr=8-1]

Episode 130: Take Me Back to Chicago with Doug E. Jones

In this episode of the podcast, Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson engage with novelist Doug E. Jones about Take Me Back to Chicago. Our conversation delves into the rich tapestry of 1974 Chicago, exploring the characters, music, and personal connections that shape the narrative. Doug also shares insights into his transition from TV writing as a writer for the tv show Charmed (and more) to novel writing. We also talk about the thematic elements of his work, and the humor that permeates his storytelling. The episode highlights the importance of character dynamics and the personal experiences that inform Doug's writing, making it a delightful exploration of both the book and the author's journey. Takeaways * Doug E. Jones’s novel is set in 1974 Chicago, rich with cultural references. * The protagonist, Rick, faces a significant debt left by his father. * The book features strong female characters, including Rick’s daughter Elena. * Doug’s writing process involves integrating real Chicago characters and events. * The transition from TV writing to novel writing was liberating for Doug. * Music plays a crucial role in setting the tone of the story. * The character dynamics between Rick and his friend Javi add humor and depth. * Historical context is woven into the narrative, enhancing the story’s richness. * Doug’s personal experiences influence the characters and settings in his novels. * The book is described as a ‘beach read’—entertaining and engaging. Heads up! This is an episode that has already aired on the How to Share podcast [https://open.spotify.com/show/0qInZdzg1Xn3Xac1IMh2z0?si=oFpnzjUbQ6C8VqmIty9u3g] so you may have already listened to it. Links for this episode: How to Share1970’s Chicago [https://wynneleon.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/how_to_share_1970s_chicago_transcript.pdf] transcript Take Me Back to Chicago  [https://eckhartzpress.com/shop/take-me-back-to-chicago/]by Doug E. Jones on Eckhartz Press Q&A with Take Me Back to Chicago author Doug E. Jones [https://eckhartzpress.com/qa-with-take-me-back-to-chicago-author-doug-e-jones/] From the Hosts: Vicki’s book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue [https://eckhartzpress.com/shop/surviving-sue/]; Blog: https://victoriaponders.com/ [https://victoriaponders.com/] Wynne's book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith [https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Fathers-Faith-Wynne-Leon/dp/1516803345/ref=sr_1_1?crid=Q3FPU6MJN01R&keywords=finding+my+father%27s+faith&qid=1692336805&sprefix=finding+my+father%27s%2Caps%2C146&sr=8-1]; Blog: https://wynneleon.com [https://wynneleon.com]