Shows
So, We Bought a Book Shop038 A Book Written in One SentenceHow does a writer decide to take a risk when it comes to using an out-of-the-box form or idea? And when they do, how does their agent, editor, and publisher respond? Today Shawn and Cade catch up with Daniel Kraus, author of many books including Whalefall and Angel Down. He's also worked with one of our favorite directors, Guillermo del Toro, on the book and movie, The Shape of Water. Whalefall takes place inside a whale's stomach. Angel Down is a book made up of one sentence. We talk about fathers and sons and how t...
2026-02-1139 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop037 How Books Connect Us to the Ones We've LostWhat is the role of the bookshop during times of political upheaval? We talk about how we try to contribute to the community around us during difficult times. And Maile reflects on how books can help us better understand loved ones who have passed away. As she reads a book about a man who went blind, she reevaluates her relationship with her deceased dad and how a book she's reading is helping her to connect deeper with him. Books Mentioned: The Day the Angels Fell by Shawn Smucker The Murder of Mr. Wi...
2026-02-0341 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop036 A Movie That Had Shawn Sobbing (And How Physical Spaces Nourish Us)Today we're joined by author Christie Purifoy! We start by discussing a movie that has recently had Shawn sobbing in the theatre and how art helps us process life. Which leads us to discuss how Christie's favorite books and films have domestic spaces or settings that communicate to us. We also talk about Christie's new book, how she realized it wasn't working, and why not. And we share some big news regarding Nooks. We also introduce a new service at Nooks: our monthly book subscriptions! You can check those out HERE. Books Mentioned:...
2026-01-2759 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop027 Sara Billups On Anxiety, Caring for Parents, and Holy IndifferenceSara Billups is one of the few people Shawn has ever smoked a cigarette with. She's also the author of a new book, Nervous Systems: Spiritual Practices to Calm Anxiety in your Body, the Church, and Politics. We chat about anxiety, seeking peace, and the fascinating idea of holy indifference. BTW...Pre-order Nervous Systems from Nooks for 20% off--simply email us at hello@nooks.gallery and we'll take it from there! Books mentioned during the conversation: Nervous Systems by Sara Billups A Non-Anxious Presence by Mark Sayers Teach Us to Want by Jen...
2025-08-1840 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop023 A Son of the BookshopToday Maile and I are joined by our son Cade who occasionally works in the bookshop this summer while home from college. He shares the book series that changed his mind about chapter books when he was young, the first four books Shawn gave him when he was old enough for the general market, and we do a deep-dive into one of his favorite authors: Fredrik Backman (and his latest book, My Friends). Books mentioned during the conversation: The Original Adventures of Hank the Cow Dog by John Erickson The Outsiders by S.E. H...
2025-07-0846 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop021 Jeff Chu, Compost, and His New Book Good SoilToday we're pulling back the curtain on one of our recent events and releasing the recording of our live conversation with Jeff Chu about his new book, Good Soil. Jeff is kind, gracious, and has some really wise things to say about how farming, death, and how to interact with those we deeply disagree with. Books mentioned during the conversation: Good Soil by Jeff Chu Connect with us! Order From Our Bookshop.org Page! Upcoming Book Clubs at Nooks! Nooks' Substack Maile's Substack Shawn's Substack Nooks' I...
2025-06-2359 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop020 Married With Children...and a Book ShopDepression. Traditional Gender Roles. Marriage and a business. Today we take a personal turn and talk about a few of the hard aspects of running a business with your spouse. What do you do when one of you needs to check out because of grief or depression or weariness or life chaos? When it comes to running a business, how can traditional gender roles lead to burnout? And what does it take for a family to press reset on the day-to-day responsibilities that everyone bears? Books mentioned during the conversation: Fair P...
2025-05-3047 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop019 "Good Gracious, We Have it Stacked Against Us"Why did Maile think, after finishing The Bookshop, "Good gracious, we have it stacked against us"? Last week we went to a Fredrik Backman author event and he spoke about writing, how mental health issues have inspired his book, and his process (chaos, chaos, chaos, book!). Backman wondered if he still has the ability to keep going, and we wonder what it's like for an author to retire. We also talk about violence in literature--what's its purpose? Does it have a place in books for young people? Books mentioned during the conversation:
2025-05-2642 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop018 When Water Comes Through the CeilingOne week ago, Maile heard water coming into the book shop through the ceiling. By the time she came back with a bucket, water was pouring down and pieces of the ceiling were coming with it. Today we're talking about hitting low points during the pursuit of your dream, and what to do next. Books mentioned during the conversation: We Do Not Part by Han Kang The Vegeterian by Han Kang Everything is Tuberculosis by John Green Little Sister Death by William Gay Finding Me by Viola Davis T...
2025-05-1438 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop017 What We Learned In Our First YearToday, Maile and I are talking about our first year as book shop owners. How has this year changed us? Do we view books differently than we did before owning a book store? We also chat about a book we've both read that is a beautiful example of what a book written in the 1st person can accomplish--it's quirky and haunting and unexpected. Happy one year to Nooks! Books mentioned during the conversation: Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead by Olga Tokarczuk Brothers K by David James Duncan W...
2025-04-3042 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop016 "If You Don't Do This," He Said, "Your Book Shop Will Fail"Recently we had a customer come into the shop and tell us that if we didn't begin using this new tool, we would go out of business while other bookstores raced ahead into the future. But what's the true cost of using AI when it comes to creative endeavors? And can we still run businesses and make a living without it, or will those of us who decide against using it fall by the wayside? We also talk about the upcoming Indie Bookstore Day, the cost of not shopping local, and, as usual, the books we've recently...
2025-04-2349 min
So, We Bought a Book Shop015 Designing a Life of Courage at East Otis Today we're continuing with the theme of courage. As Maile and I approach the one year anniversary of taking over Nooks, we talk with another couple who have truly stepped out over the cliff's edge and followed their dream: Will and Emma Haughery. A few years ago they started their own furniture making company, East Otis, and today we're talking with them about leaving traditional employment, the tradeoffs that occur, and what gives them the courage to keep going. Connect with East Otis at Instagram or their website. Connect with us!...
2025-04-1748 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop014 Amy King Picks the LockToday we're talking one of the most awarded YA authors alive: A.S. King (she won the Printz Award twice!). She takes us back to her formative years of reading and writing, the fifteen years and eight novels she wrote before being published, and how Pick the Lock is in some ways a culmination of her talent and her lived experience. A wonderful conversation with a wonderful author. Books mentioned during the conversation: Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak Howard and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson The Astonishing Life of Oc...
2025-04-101h 00So, We Bought a Book Shop013 Lore Wilbert Thinks She's a Scaredy-CatToday is our first-ever recording in the book shop! we're talking with author Lore Wilbert about her courageous creative journey--writing nonfiction online for decades and now pivoting to fiction. How does a reader's (or potential editor's) tastes impact the work we do? And how do we handle those not-so-positive responses? We also take a stab at identifying authors who might still be here in 50 years' time. Finally, how can we take courage with us into our everyday lives? We're just three writers trying to keep going. Enjoy! Connect with us! Order From Our B...
2025-04-0246 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop012 On Staring Down Our Book Shop MortalityToday we're talking about the John Green event we went to, how it inspired us to keep creating community, what Rick Rubin has to say about running a book shop, and, perhaps the toughest part, how to view the possibility that these good things we create will not last forever. For a complete list of all the books ever mentioned on the podcast, head over to our bookshelf dedicated to this podcast at Bookshop.org! Mentioned in this episode: The Anthropocene Reviewed by John Green Everything is Tuberculosis by John Green The...
2025-03-2644 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop011 Bears Versus Men, Being Alone in the Store, and Vulnerability in FictionMaile reflects on the vulnerable state of women and children and how occasionally being in the store by herself with odd men has made her uncomfortable, with one specific, recent story as an example. Shawn fills Maile in on the internet question from some time ago, "Would you feel more at danger in the woods if you encountered a man or a bear?" and she gives her answer. They also dive deep into three books that have opened their eyes to vulnerability, abuse and manipulation. Let's all be more curious. For a complete list of al...
2025-03-1942 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop010 Ned Bustard and the Artist's Path of Courage, Creativity, and RestToday we're chatting with artist Ned Bustard (in front of a live studio audience) about his early days as an artist and the gifts of courage, creativity, and rest. Why has it been a struggle for him to own the title of artist? What does it look like to live with courage and to rest well while not letting comfort distract us? And when does it all become too much? For a complete list of books mentioned on the podcast, head over to our bookshelf dedicated to this podcast at Bookshop.org! Connect w...
2025-03-1253 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop009 When Returning to the Dream is Tough (and the Death of Shawn's Books)Today Maile shares why it felt so hard to return to the book shop after a week away (but what also made the return so sweet). And Shawn talks about getting the rights back to two of his books, why it feels a little like these novels have died (kind of). If everything comes to an end, often too soon, why write? Why create? Why start something new? For a complete list of books mentioned on the podcast, head over to our bookshelf dedicated to this podcast at Bookshop.org! Here are a few of t...
2025-03-0543 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop008 Regarding Competition, Banned Books, and What We're Taking AlongWhat happens when four local bookshops are all invited to sell books at the same event? In this episode, we discuss indie bookstore competition (and why we all compliment each other so well), our favorite books that have at times through history been banned, and which are our favorites. We also talk about waiting to read certain books until you can appreciate them, what we think of the books we finished recently, and which titles we've decided to take with us on our upcoming trip. For a complete list of books mentioned on the podcast, head...
2025-02-2747 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop007 Time is Money...Until It Isn'tWe've been marveling at how owning the book shop has expanded the circle of folks we interact with, and Maile talks about how much she needed that. We also talk about the nature of compensation...are there things you do or would do simply for the love of it, receiving no money in exchange for your time? If Maile isn't making money at the shop, why in the world does she spend so much time there? Also, Shawn meets a monk in the shop and Sean Dietrich (aka Sean of the South) came to Nooks ...
2025-02-1947 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop006 The Question We're Asked More Than Any OtherThere's one question we get asked more than anything else, and so today we're digging into that question. We also talk about the importance of reading novels in order to develop empathy, which specific books have done that for us, and why human recommendations are better than the algorithm. Thanks for listening! For a complete list of books mentioned in this podcast, head over to our bookshelf dedicated to this podcast at Bookshop.org! Connect with us! Order From Our Bookshop.org Page! Nooks' Substack Maile's Substack Shawn's S...
2025-02-1239 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop005 What It's Like to be a Writer Selling Other People's StoriesMaile and I talk about being writers who own a book shop...do we mind selling other writers' work when we haven't had much time to write ourselves? And going into 2025, how do we get back on track in our own writing life? Do conditions need to be perfect for you to step out and follow your dream? This one's for anyone working a day job who also wants to pursue their creative dreams. Books mentioned in this episode: The War of Art by Steven Pressfield Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott
2025-02-0536 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop004 Our Fears About Owning a Book Shop, and Finding HopeToday Maile and I talk about our fears in opening a bookstore--what if, in this divisive climate, people get upset by the books we carry or choose not to carry? What if we can't read enough books to keep up with our readers' needs? What if the construction on our block puts us out of business? So much of our hope in the face of despair comes from you all, a book-loving community that helps us to know about the good books that are out there in the world and continues to bring us all together.
2025-01-3045 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop003 Is All Reading Beneficial?Is all reading beneficial? Maile and I begin by gently debating the place of graphic novels in a child's reading diet, then discuss the comment we often hear from visitors in the shop about children: "As long as they're reading, that's what matters." Is it? What if it's not about the book as much as what we bring to the book and how deliberate we are in evaluating what we're reading? There are so many forces acting on us, so many people who want us to think in certain ways. If we read the right...
2025-01-2137 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop002 How a Book Ends Up in Our ShopThe easy answer to how a book ends up in our shop is that we have to love it . . . or have it recommended strongly to us . . . or talk to readers who share our taste and are big fans of the book in question. But there's more to it than that, because sometimes a book travels a long and winding way to get to us. That's the way of a good book. And when it arrives in our store and we read it, we long for a community in which to share our response to the book. As W...
2025-01-1442 minSo, We Bought a Book Shop001 So . . . We Bought a Book ShopWhere do dreams take root? What's the process in deciding to say yes to something new, out-of-the-box, exciting? Today, Maile and I talk about the story behind our purchase of Nooks, a local book shop in Lancaster, PA. We also discuss how the fear of failure can keep us trying meaningful things or setting out on new adventures, and how an important part of making big decisions is often . . . waiting, patience, trust. Also, Shawn talks about being on the edge of a literal breakdown, and Maile shares how her introverted self has grown into her love of c...
2025-01-0740 min
Word By Word: A Writing PodcastShawn's Writing Journey (S1.02)In today's episode we ask Shawn Smucker about his journey as a co-writer, ghost writer, and fiction writer over the last 15+ years. --- Maile's Substack: Mai Time in the Kitchen Shawn's Books: Books by Shawn Smucker Shawn's Substack: Shawn Smucker Bryan's Books: LakeMasonBooks.com --- Intro / Outro music is Birds by Corbyn Kites, as found in the YouTube Audio Library.
2024-02-1448 min
The Stories Between Us185 So Long, Farewell, Auf Wiedersehen, GoodbyeToday, Maile and Shawn talk about entering a new stage of life and how it's led them into a season of paring back on various things...including the podcast. Also, if you're a writer, do you ever have permission to simply quit writing? We love you all. Thanks for listening.
2023-06-0124 minThe Stories Between Us178 This Unpredictable Freelance LifeToday Maile and I talk about our freelance life, the benefits and drawbacks of such a life, and why we keep trying to cobble together a life doing the thing that we love: telling stories. Also, how do you know when to abandon a difficult project and when to keep working? For Shawn's recent substack post on the same topic: Living a Life That Has No Rational Explanation
2023-03-2024 minThe Stories Between Us171 Maile Tells Shawn What's Wrong With His WritingRecently, when Shawn shared his concerns with Maile, that he would never be able to write the book he wanted to write, that it was beginning to feel like all of life was just him practicing writing...she got really honest and told him what she felt was his greatest weakness as a writer. And they're still married. Today, we're talking about the voices in our head and how they can sometimes keep us from creating what we're meant to create. Maile also gives a little update on her manuscript, which is out on...
2023-01-3126 minThe Stories Between Us164 Our Three Favorite Books of 2022Maile and Shawn decide on their three favorite books of 2022. Shawn's favorite is no surprise to those of you who have been listening to the podcast. Maile's favorite has, dare she say, changed her life. Shawn also throws in a few honorable mentions. Plus, a fun announcement! A list of books mentioned in the episode, in no particular order: The Witch Elm by Tana French Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr Rembrandt is in the Wind by Russ Ramsey The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman Circe by Madeline Miller...
2022-12-0730 minThe Stories Between Us158 Join Our Writing Community for FreeToday we have a special announcement to make: our online writers' community, also called The Stories Between Us, is now open to any writer who would like to join. And it's free. But registration will only be open for two weeks, so check it out. You can find out more about the community HERE. We also talk about being voluntarily brainwashed, what Maile's been reading, and a podcast that Shawn's enjoying.
2022-10-3120 minThe Stories Between Us155 The Practice that Makes All the DifferenceMaile talks about what she's returned to that is making all the difference in her creative life, as well as why she wasn't crazy about the beginning of one of Shawn's favorite books. There's a brief update on Maile's book submission process. Michelle DeRusha's Seasons of the Soul enters the conversation. And the children are home from school. Fun all around!
2022-10-1224 minThe Stories Between Us152 After Less-Than-Stellar Book Sales...What Now?What now? That's the question Shawn and Maile explore after Shawn's recent check-in with his agent. Unimpressive book sales make it difficult for an author to continue to receive offers on new books, so what do we do if we find ourselves in this situation? We have to figure out, are we going to keep going?
2022-06-1421 minThe Stories Between Us151 Creative Goals and the Life of a Writing MamaShawn finds an 8-year-old goal he set way back in 2014, so he and Maile spend some time talking about it. Maile shares her perspective when it comes to goal-setting in the midst of raising six children. Welcome to the Smucker dinner table! They also talk about a scary experiment Shawn is going to be doing over at shawnsmucker.substack.com. Plus, a few books they're enjoying these days.
2022-06-0728 minThe Stories Between Us148 Writing for the Fun of ItToday we're talking about a recent interview we watched with Anthony Doerr, author of the Pulitzer-prize winning book All the Light We Cannot See, along with the recent Smucker household favorite, Cloud Cuckoo Land. In Doerr we see a writer who only a few books ago wondered if anything would become of his writing career, someone who still has a childlike giddiness about story-telling. And we wonder...is it enough to write for the fun of it? Could it be the complexity of his novels arises from his commitment to fun and whimsy?
2022-05-1724 minThe Stories Between Us144 Russ Ramsey and Rembrandt is in the WindRuss Ramsey, author of the new book Rembrandt is in the Wind, has had an influence on Shawn's life in two very concrete ways, so it's an honor to have him on the podcast today, where he talks about having urgent heart surgery at the age of 40, why he thinks it's important to compare an artist's early works with their later creation (think suffering), and where he's finding hope in his creative life. You can find his new book HERE.
2022-04-1839 minThe Stories Between Us139 Nothing is WastedToday we start off by talking about a book Maile recommended to Shawn, a book he finally started reading this week and is loving. We also talk about how, for the writer, nothing is wasted--no sadness, no hardship, no joy, and no time, even when we're not writing, is wasted. It all becomes part of us, and part of the things we create.
2022-03-1525 minThe Stories Between Us138 The Good Things Right in Front of UsToday we're reflecting on spring, new beginnings, and why it's important to appreciate where we are, today, without looking too far ahead. Also, this present age's gluttonous obsession with approval. And where we're seeing signs of hope in our own creative journeys. As discussed on this podcast: - Maile's blog! - Shawn's Video of a Novel
2022-03-0821 minThe Stories Between Us136 Is There Value in Our Secret Work?Today we're talking about the value of work done in secret. Is there any? What if the things we do never see the light of day? We also talk about some new things we're up to, namely Maile's blog and Shawn's video journal of the novel he's currently writing. Check out the links for those below. Maile's Blog: https://www.thestoriesbetweenus.com/blog Shawn's video journal: https://shawnsmucker.substack.com Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi A House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros
2022-02-2320 minThe Stories Between Us127 When to Work Hard...and When to Give Yourself a BreakShawn's exhausted, so he and Maile talk about how to know when to give yourself a break...and when to push through the malaise. How do you decide if you need to be harder on yourself and get the work done, or give yourself some grace and take it easy?
2021-12-1025 minThe Stories Between Us125 Never Give UpWhen our youngest daughter overcame her fear of roller skating and looked up at Shawn, she said three words that we're going to explore deeper today: Never Give Up. What does that even mean for a writer, when there are no guarantees? And how can we keep going, never give up, when everything around us is suggesting we might never get there?
2021-11-1927 minThe Stories Between Us118 Maile's First Publisher Rejection, and Maintaining HopeThere are a lot of exciting things going on around here these days: Maile received her first publisher rejection, we're offering a new memoir-writing course, and we're working hard to maintain our hope on this writing journey. That last one isn't always easy, but there are a few things we like to keep in mind that help us stay hopeful and engaged in our writing practice. To find out more about our upcoming class, The Six Month Memoir, click HERE. To support the podcast, go HERE. To check out Shawn's most recent novel, h...
2021-09-3018 minThe Stories Between Us107 A Big Announcement!Today we talk about the release of Shawn's latest book, The Weight of Memory, and why he no longer expects to get taken straight to the top of the mountain. Maile is more into the Ecclesiastical side of things--what's bringing meaning to her life these days? New book: The Weight of Memory New classes: The Stories Between Us A Twitter Addict Realizes She Needs Rehab Please consider supporting this podcast through Patreon!
2021-07-0920 minThe Stories Between Us104 Growing the Deep Roots of Creative Self-ConfidenceMaile is about to re-enter the agent submission fray with her latest novel, so we take some time to talk about self-confidence. How can we tell when our own work is any good? What steps can we take to regain self-confidence we may have lost after previous rejections? Shawn also talks about his upcoming book release party, where he will be joined by Sean Dietrich (also known as Sean of the South)! To preorder the book and receive your invitation to the event, head HERE.
2021-05-2037 minThe Stories Between Us098 Never Too Early, Never Too LateShawn and Maile talk revisions, perfection, and when to take a manuscript to the next stage. They also share the back stories of the authors they're currently reading, one on the young side, the other on the older side, and remind each other that there's no perfect age when it comes to releasing books. Except now. Now might be the perfect age.
2021-04-2130 minThe Stories Between Us094 On Hope, Disappointment, and Everything in BetweenMaile and Shawn talk about the fine line between hope and discouragement, whether or not it's possible to choose genuine hope, and when giving up is the right thing to do. Also, Maile's crush on Daniel Day-Lewis is explored.
2021-04-0627 minThe Stories Between Us093 Creating in Times of StressMaile and Shawn start by clearing something up from the previous episode that might have led listeners to believer their marriage was heading for disaster. They also discuss the various things that have helped them make space for creativity, even during stressful, chaotic times of life.
2021-03-3124 minThe Stories Between Us091 Winn Collier On Writing the Biography of Eugene PetersonWinn Collier talks with us about what it was like to write the biography of Eugene Peterson, how he got the gig in the first place, and what it's like, trying to capture the essence of a complex person's life in a 300-page book. He also turns the tables on us, asking Maile if she prefers Shawn with a beard or without. It's a hard-hitting interview.
2021-03-1827 minThe Stories Between Us090 Do You Really Want What You Think You Want?Maile and Shawn go deep into the idea of having fun and the difference between creating art and selling art. And if we are going to tie the things we really want to our everyday behavior...do we really want what we think we want?
2021-03-1638 minThe Stories Between Us088 Art as a Support System for Life (And Not the Other Way Around)Maile shares a story of trying to get some revisions finished on her novel when the kids remind her she had promised them a walk to the dog park. Which raises the question...is my art a support system for my life, or is my life a support system for my art? Shawn also wrestles with the complicated creative legacy of Van Gogh.
2021-03-0921 minThe Stories Between Us086 In Which We Are All Van GoghA kind friend sent Shawn a book written in 1933 that rocks his world. Shawn and Maile talk about the book, which is all about the life of Vincent van Gogh. They wrestle with the question Van Gogh's father asked him in his early days of creativity, "What if at the end the work remains poor? Are the rewards worth the gamble?" The book discussed is Lust for Life by Irving Stone.
2021-03-0233 minThe Stories Between Us085 Christiana Peterson Fell Into a Grave (Literally and Metaphorically)Christiana Peterson, author of Awakened By Death, shares some stories with us today about what it was like to grow up with a fascination with death, nearly falling into a grave when she was a child, and how she talks to her own kids about mortality. They explore Shawn's Amish roots and how that community deals with death and dying. And Christiana shares what her friends and family think about her strange obsession. To find out more about Christiana and her work, you can visit her HERE.
2021-02-2531 minThe Stories Between Us083 Antoinette Brim-Bell and Seeing in New WaysShawn speaks with poet Antoinette Brim-Bell about trying new things (she's a professor but also taking a playwriting class), why she's waited to write about race (until now), and the difference between simply taking up space and being worthy of the space we've been given. You can find out more about Antoinette at her website. Antoinette's book, These Women You Gave Me.
2021-02-1826 minThe Stories Between Us081 That Thing Our Family Tried in JanuaryShawn and Maile talk about the Great January experiment--what it was, how their kids reacted to the idea, and the results they saw. They also revisit the idea of setting expectations, goals, and dreams, and then making sure your life is aligned with the direction you'd like to be heading. Interested in their new course, The Nine Month Novel? Check it out HERE. Kate Motaung's wonderful community, Five Minute Friday And the first episode we discussed expectations, goals, and dreams: What Do You Want?
2021-02-0931 minThe Stories Between Us080 Beth Stedman and the Art of Getting Unstuck“At the beginning of the year I felt like everyone else was moving somewhere, and I was stuck.” Beth Stedman joins us today to talk about rejection, choosing to write no matter the results, escapist literature, and the role creativity has played during the last ten years as her husband has continued his cancer journey. Also, check out the two episodes when Maile and Shawn were each guests over at Beth’s podcast, Fable and the Verbivore. Maile’s episode is HERE, and Shawn’s is HERE.
2021-02-0429 minThe Stories Between Us078 Janelle Stoltzfus and Walking the Valley of the Shadow of DeathLast fall, our good friend and fellow creative Janelle Stoltzfus discovered that she had breast cancer. Weeks later, soon after her lumpectomy, she received the news that her mother had a brain tumor, a glioblastoma, and had weeks to live. Today, we hear her story and, as always, try to discover the role that creativity might play in these difficult days. Visit Janelle's beautiful creation, Millstream Homes. Maile reads the poem "Breathing Underwater" by Carol Bieleck. Shawn reads from the book The Reed of God, by Carol Houselander.
2021-01-2943 minThe Stories Between Us074 Laura Tremaine and How Time Heals All (Most?) WoundsLaura Tremaine joins us today to talk about her transition from mommy-blogger to podcaster to author. She also opens up about a dark stage in her life and what brought her through. Finally, Shawn and Maile ask her if there are any feelings of jealousy between her and her super-successful and creative husband, Jeff, who is a movie producer...and the conversation that ensues is encouraging. Preorder Laura's new book: Share Your Stuff. I'll Go First. Laura's podcast: 10 Things to Tell You
2021-01-1550 minThe Stories Between Us073 Creating Courageously During Difficult DaysToday Maile and Shawn talk about the various ways creative people can and should be engaging with culture during these difficult days. We try to do it without hypocrisy, but you can judge for yourself on whether or not that is the case. We also mention (again) Jonathan Rogers' wonderful podcast and newsletter, The Habit.
2021-01-1225 minThe Stories Between Us071 Bettering Yourself as a WriterWelcome to Season Four! It's going to be a good one. Today we talk about Maile's obsession with Netflix's fake fireplace (Birchwood edition), the books we're reading, and what we're going to do to better ourselves as writers in 2021. Also, Shawn shares the one thing that ALWAYS silences the voices of self-doubt. The book Shawn threw in the lazy river: How Fiction Works by James Wood
2021-01-0535 minThe Stories Between Us070 Creative Mindsets for the New YearWhat creative mindsets are you taking with you into the New Year? Are they ways of thinking about creativity that serve you well or do they keep you mired in negative self-talk? Today, Shawn and Maile each share one mindset they're taking with them into the New Year, and one mindset they're planning on leaving in 2020. Alex Haley's biography Awesome Alex Haley interview: The Roots of Alex Haley's Writing Career
2020-12-2217 minThe Stories Between Us068 It's Time to Make a ChangeShawn and Maile talk about the dynamic and life-giving force that change can be in your creative life. So, change it up! They also talk about the various ways their creative lives are changing in 2021--Maile is teaching a writing class! Shawn is writing a screen play! Join them as they talk about the good and tough of making changes to your creative life.
2020-12-1522 minThe Stories Between Us066 Who is Your Future Creative Self?Maile and Shawn talk about their own self-limiting beliefs and how those things have kept them from trying and creating new things. Do you have beliefs about yourself that are limiting? Are you measuring who you can become by your past? And they talk about a new way forward, a creative path that allows for creativity, innovation, and, most importantly, hope.
2020-12-0821 minThe Stories Between Us065 Matthew Paul Turner and the Joy of WritingMatthew Paul Turner joins us today to talk about encouraging friendships, Christmas, and the joys of writing for children. He shares his journey to writing kids' books, has a remarkable memory when it comes to the first time he and Shawn met, and has some revealing words regarding one of Shawn's high school crushes (ahem, Amy Grant). Maile, staying on topic, gushes about Matthew's latest book, All the Colors of Christmas. When God Made You When God Made Light
2020-12-031h 17The Stories Between Us064 Our Favorite Books of 2020Maile and Shawn surprise each other and reveal their favorite books of 2020, along with what can only be described as extremely poignant insights into what made each book so special...okay, maybe it's not that profound, but they have fun with it.
2020-12-0122 minThe Stories Between Us063 You're Not an Undiscovered Genius (and This is Good News)We talk about the myth of the undiscovered genius and why this is a dangerous road for a writer's mind to travel, as well as how knowing the truth (that we're all mortals who simply need to work harder at our craft) is actually good news. Plus, the writing 101 lesson that has Maile and Shawn encouraged and ready to get back to work.
2020-11-2421 minThe Stories Between Us062 Childhood Creativity and Maile's Inappropriate Christmas StoryWe talk about the benefits of creativity for children and adults. Maile gushed over a new children's Christmas book and shares about an inappropriate Christmas story she wrote when she was in second grade. Shawn doesn't care about the world anymore because he has his own office in the basement. And they reveal the identity of their next guest on the show--a real doozy. Mentioned on the show: The Importance of Creativity in Childhood Development Creativity: A Strategic Necessity All the Colors of Christmas by Matthew Paul Turner Boundary Waters by William K...
2020-11-1725 minThe Stories Between Us061 Jamie Kocur and the Seeds of CreativityJamie Kocur joins us to talk about songwriting, creating in the margins, and her new book, My CCM Soundtracked Life. Shawn is concerned her disillusionment might destroy his childhood memories of Michael W. Smith and Amy Grant. Maile has no such concerns, as she grew up listening to Air Supply. We talk about how small seeds of creativity planted now might grow into something more substantial down the road.
2020-11-1227 minThe Stories Between Us060 Write What You Know...Or NotShawn admits to Maile that, unbeknownst to her, he did apply for their family to move to New Zealand. He gushes about a book he's currently reading (although he's not sure he's allowed to talk about it). Maile's recent delight is parenting the youngest two. But what they really dig into is the old saying, "Write what you know"...and how to decide how much more you need to learn about something before writing about it. A few of the topics discussed: Sean Dietrich (aka Sean of the South) Anthony Doerr's All th...
2020-11-1019 minThe Stories Between Us058 Seven Ways to Maintain Creativity During Turbulent TimesMaile and Shawn talk about how the ongoing societal angst is effecting their creativity, along with seven practices that might help you regain a handle on your creative life. As the episode progresses, Shawn thinks Maile might be conspiring against him in the creation of the list. You'll have to decide for yourself. Mentioned: The Habit Podcast: Jonathan Rogers Interviews Andrew LePeau about the link between physical exercise and creative ideas.
2020-11-0324 minThe Stories Between Us057 Jude Halvorsen (Poetry House) and Overcoming DistractionsShawn and Maile speak with 17-year-old rap artist Jude Halvorsen from Poetry House about his process, what got him into music, and what it takes to maintain a certain level of creativity with all of today's distractions. Check out his newest single, Pain Now.
2020-10-2919 minThe Stories Between Us056 What Sent Our Voice to the Page in the First PlaceMaile talks cupcakes. Shawn talks about standing in the sun on James Street. But what we really get into is the question, What brought you to this creative life in the first place, and how can you recover that? And, how are you being an encouraging force in the creative lives of those around you? Lancaster Cupcake Amena Brown
2020-10-2722 minThe Stories Between Us053 What's the Big Idea?Where do ideas come from, and how do you choose which idea to run with? Today we talk about the infamous, brainless sea squirt, how no idea is an original idea, and what our own personal process is in deciding which idea to forge ahead with. Also, Shawn vents about a recent review (having to do with the idea behind his last novel, These Nameless Things), and Maile somehow pulls in a reference to that great 1987 Sylvester Stallone movie, Over the Top. Smithsonian article referenced: Where Do New Ideas Come From? Shawn's book, These Nameless T...
2020-10-1327 minThe Stories Between Us051 The Divine PartnershipMaile and Shawn talk about the divine partnership that occurs within the creative work. Related to that, they talk about books going out of print and created works that don't accomplish what we would like them to accomplish. They also talk about the lost virtue of magnanimity: having "a lofty vision for your life, to have noble ambitions, to dream great dreams. Simply, you must believe you are worthy as a child of God, and created to do great things."* *from Father Brian Cavanaugh's "Your Created Goodness"
2020-10-0117 minThe Stories Between Us049 Farewell...For NowMaile and Shawn wrap up their second season with a conversation about the cycles of writing, a letter from a famous writer about the importance of creativity, and each of them give one last piece of encouragement before saying farewell...for now. To find out more about Jonathan Rogers' 'The Habit' podcast and newsletter, head HERE.
2020-07-3113 minThe Stories Between Us047 Self-Care for the Creative During a PandemicShawn and Maile talk about being tired, writing while anxious, and a few small things that help them create well during difficult times.
2020-07-0817 minThe Stories Between Us045 Overcoming DistractionToday, Maile and Shawn admit to a few of the things that distract them from writing the most and offer up a few suggestions when it comes to regaining your focus. They also apologize profusely for not posting a podcast last Tuesday. Shawn forgets to hit the record button.
2020-06-2315 minThe Stories Between Us043 D.L. Mayfield: The Intermingling of Creativity and ActivismToday, D.L. Mayfield reminds us creative folks to tend to our bodies. She turns the tables on Shawn and Maile and asks them, "Can beauty really save the world?" And she helps us to begin thinking about how creative writing and activism can go hand-in-hand. You can find out more about the books and other writing Danielle has done at dlmayfield.com
2020-06-1227 minThe Stories Between Us042 In Which Shawn Confesses to Maile and It Involves a Royalty StatementShawn admits that he received a royalty statement last week but threw it in the trash. Maile is perplexed as to why he didn't tell her when this happened. Find out why. They also talk about how to deal with disappointing sales and their new puppy, Winnifred. We're giving away five advance copies of Shawn's soon-to-be-released novel, These Nameless Things. To have your name entered in a drawing for one of the copies, simply share this podcast to any social media profile you have and use the hashtag, #TheStoriesBetweenUs.
2020-06-0920 minThe Stories Between Us036 When Shawn was a 19-Year-Old Jerkface: Some Thoughts on FeedbackMaile digs up an old memory in which 19-year-old Shawn, during a moment of insensitivity, said something that still echoes in her mind today. They talk about the importance of receiving feedback (and being able to keep it from feeling personal). Also, those voices in your head telling you you're not good enough? It's time to identify them and then kick them out of your headspace.
2020-05-1923 minThe Stories Between Us034 A 10-Year Path to Publication (a Tutorial on Self-Encouragement)What happens if you don't have encouraging voices around you? How can we be the source of encouragement for ourselves? How can we stay positive when the creative journey gets tough? Shawn and Maile talk about this and dig into the story behind Shawn's upcoming book, These Nameless Things, and its 10-year path to publication.
2020-05-1218 minThe Stories Between Us032 What Every Creative Person Needs to Give and to ReceiveToday we're talking about what everyone creative person needs. We also dive into the difference between 1st, 2nd, and 3rd drafts, and update each other on where we're currently at in our own writing. Shawn talks about the book launch group for his upcoming release...which you can join here: https://bit.ly/2SDBZkA Bonus material includes the sound of guinea pigs cheering in the background.
2020-05-0517 minThe Stories Between Us030 Writing as a "Revolutionary Patience": Our Thoughts on Anne Lamott's Bird By BirdShawn talks about his favorite book on writing and how it first came into his possession. Maile talks about, in Anne Lamott's words, at first believing minor repairs are needed on her novel, looking out the window, and realizing that actually the wrecking ball had arrived. They both discuss how, at the end of the day, the actual creating is the thing--not the publishing or the reviews or the awards. Not the rejection or the critics or the disappointments. The writing is what we always come back to.
2020-04-2820 minThe Stories Between Us028 In Which Maile Gets Really, Really Honest"If I'm honest, I feel like...okay, now we're going to get really deep. Are we ready for this? I feel like the clock is ticking for me." Today Maile and Shawn talk about the gut-wrenching part of creativity (rejection), the problem with tying your success to things you have no control over, and what to do when the discouragement seems like too much.
2020-04-2128 minThe Stories Between Us022 Overcoming Fear, Rejection, and the Great ResistanceMaile and Shawn discuss the strange new world we are all living in as well as the book on creativity, The War of Art by Steven Pressfield. They delve into the fears that try to keep them from creating, and Maile shares an update on her recent querying of agents to represent her middle grade books.
2020-03-3132 minThe Stories Between Us019 In Which Shawn Confesses, Maile Talks About Depression, and Revisions are in OrderShawn has a confession to make. Maile talks through her latest bout with depression and reflects on how writing gave her a place to go. They both talk about the need for creative types to shift from wanting only affirmation to also wanting critique that will help them make their stuff better. We explore who specifically to go to for feedback on early drafts of your creative work. And all of this from the comfort of their brand new studio: a Disney princess tent they can barely fit inside.
2020-03-1025 minThe Stories Between Us018 Will and Anne Bogel: Books, Books, and More BooksToday we talk with Will and Anne Bogel. Anne is the founder and creator of Modern Mrs. Darcy and the podcast, What Should I Read Next? She's also the author of numerous books including her latest, Don't Overthink It (which released March 2, 2020). Will is the strong silent type mostly in the background who helps make everything happen. We get into why Modern Mrs. Darcy became a site primarily about books and reading, how she got the idea for What Should I Read Next?, and what's on the list of things that they will be working...
2020-03-0324 minThe Stories Between Us014 Christie Purifoy: When Creativity Surprises YouShawn and Maile chat with author Christie Purifoy about why she got her PhD and then left teaching, what it's like for writing to keep surprising you, and how to balance (or not) the writing life with other minor things like family, a spouse, and real life. Christie's writing is beautiful, reminiscent of Madeleine L'Engle's nonfiction, and she is the author of the books Roots and Sky and Placemaker. She can also be found on Instagram at @christiepurifoy, @maplehurstgardens, and @maplehurstblackbarn. She also does a podcast with co-host Lisa-Jo Baker called "Out of the Ordinary." * * * * *
2020-02-0431 minThe Stories Between Us013 The Story of How We Met (and How Our Writing Brings Us Home Again)Shawn and Maile share the story of how they met, and how during that time they read Annie Dillard's The Writing Life. They discuss the importance of being willing to edit out even the parts of our writing we love, when necessary. What role does trust play in working with an editor? And, finally, writing can put us in situations that make us feel like we're being pulled away, but in the end it's the work of writing that brings us home. Books mentioned: The Writing Life by Annie Dillard The Day the Angels...
2020-01-2830 minThe Stories Between Us012 Another Milestone for Maile...And What's NextShawn and Maile have fun discussing a recent milestone Maile accomplished. They consider the option of independent publishing, especially in light of the encouraging words from their last episode's guest, Chad Gibbs. They talk about what they're reading and anticipate an upcoming interview with a well-known author...
2020-01-2123 minThe Stories Between Us010 On New Writing Routines, Mall Food Courts, and a New YearMaile discloses new life-changing routines. Shawn admits to a certain shopping mall food court obsession. They reveal the creativity book of the month they'll be discussing over at their Patreon page. And Maile has all the connections.
2020-01-0723 minThe Stories Between Us009 On Death, Creativity, and What Makes Up a Good Creative LifeShawn and Maile reflect on the darkness of this particular Advent season and the death of Shawn's grandmother. They wonder if the way she lived her life might serve as a model for living a good creative life. It's the final episode of Season One! They explore what the next season might look like for the podcast and reveal one fun element coming in Season Two. Keep writing!
2019-12-1721 minThe Stories Between Us008 In Which We Reevaluate Maile's Writing Situation...AgainMaile and Shawn talk about the previous episode, where they got their kids' opinions on having writers for parents. They also realize that their current strategy to get Maile writing isn't working anymore, so they regroup and make a new plan. Finally, Shawn's latest royalty statement arrives!
2019-12-1025 minThe Stories Between Us007 How Have We Screwed You Up?Shawn and Maile invite their two oldest children onto the podcast to discuss everything creative: What's it like being creative kids in a large family? How did they feel when they realized both of their parents are writers? Would Lucy, after seeing the creative struggles of her stay-at-home mom, choose to have children or get married someday? Cade and Lucy shed some light on what it's like to grow up in a creative household and how they think this will effect their futures.
2019-12-0331 minThe Stories Between Us006 The Thing Writers Don't Want to Talk AboutMaile and Shawn begin by talking about royalty statements and how sometimes they can be a twice-annual reminder of a book you wrote that didn't quite meet your hopes or expectations. Shawn vents about online courses and how many of them try to exploit writers. And they each end the episode by mentioning something they're thankful for in their writing life. Mentioned in the podcast: Andi Cumbo-Floyd's online Facebook community for writers Hopewriters Community
2019-11-2624 minThe Stories Between Us005 Jealousy Between Writing SpousesMaile reflects on how a recently-watched episode of the Berenstain Bears on envy reflected some of her feelings of jealousy towards Shawn and where he is in his writing journey. Shawn admits his cluelessness about various aspects of their marriage. It's also an episode where they talk about important questions that have come up in their lives. Maile asks, "What am I doing to feel alive in my own right?" Sam asked, "I thought Mom went to college to be a mom?" There is the difficult conversation. And the even more difficult conversation...
2019-11-1925 minThe Stories Between Us004 In Which Maile Hears Back from an AgentMaile hears back from an agent and the interaction doesn't lead to tears. But there are tears later when Shawn and Maile go out to eat so that Maile can talk about her struggles with motherhood and creativity. How do we hold the good and the hard together? How can we help each other lift the burdens that we bear so that we have more space for creativity? As an added bonus, one of the Smucker children unexpectedly interrupts the podcast to let his parents know he's going to poop. All...
2019-11-1222 minThe Stories Between Us003 In Which Maile is the Wife of the WriterMaile happens to sit down at a writing award banquet beside the very person she needed to be beside. We remember why we write, we talk about closed-door and open-door writing, and Shawn talks about how social media is robbing us of writing without an audience. He's such an old curmudgeon. And they emotionally prepare each other for an upcoming episode in which they will talk about jealousy among writing spouses. Books mentioned: Stephen King's On Writing Stephen King's 11/22/63 John Irving's A Prayer for Owen Meany
2019-11-0519 minThe Stories Between Us002 What Are You Going Towards?Maile and Shawn talk about the question, "Where are you going?" in regards to writing. What's the end game, and by what standards should we be content or anxious about our creative lives? Maile also admits that she has at times been a menace to society when she's not creating, referencing Maria Semple's book, Where'd You Go, Bernadette.
2019-10-2922 min
The Stories Between Us001 An Introduction to the Stories Between UsMaile Silva and Shawn Smucker give their backgrounds as writers, how they've gotten to this place, and what their current writing schedules are like. Maile also shares the meanest rejection she's ever received, and where she was when she read the email. Help us to continue recording The Stories Between Us by joining our Patreon community.
2019-10-1524 min