Summary

Award-Winning Author and Editor Shawn Reilly Simmons gets to know her guests by asking Five Compelling Questions (plus a few bonus ones) about the writing life. Topics include finding inspiration, staying motivated, writing as a career, staying sane during the creative process, and balancing fictional and real life.
Shawn Reilly Simmons
Episodes
  • EP 283: 5CQ for James Cleary, Author of Sanctuary

    EP 283: 5CQ for James Cleary, Author of Sanctuary
    Apr 13 2026

    In this engaging interview, author James Cleary discusses his novel 'Sanctuary,' exploring themes of climate catastrophe, social justice, and human morality. Discover the inspiration behind the story, the research process, and insights into writing a thriller that reflects current global anxieties.
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    26 mins
  • EP 282: 5CQ for Jayne Ann Phillips

    EP 282: 5CQ for Jayne Ann Phillips
    Apr 6 2026

    In this engaging interview, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jayne Ann Phillips discusses her memoir 'Small Town Girls,' exploring themes of regional history, intergenerational stories, resilience, and the power of literature. She shares insights into her writing process, the significance of her regional roots, and her upcoming projects, offering valuable lessons for writers and readers alike.
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    21 mins
  • EP 281: 5CQ for Matt Witten, Author of 51%

    EP 281: 5CQ for Matt Witten, Author of 51%
    Apr 3 2026

    In this interview, author Matt Witten discusses his dystopian thriller '51%', exploring themes of corporate power, privatization, and resistance. He shares insights into character development, pacing, and the intersection of screenwriting and novel writing, offering a compelling look at his creative process and the book's societal implications.
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    26 mins
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