In Other Worlds

In Other Worlds Wed, 04 Mar 2026 17:35:08 -0500 https://www.iowpod.com en-us © 2026 In Other Worlds yes e42466c7-4e18-53c7-b9f0-d586e603607c jess@iowpod.com Jessica Worgo episodic true Every other week, your host Jess will be sitting down with the authors and audiobooks narrators that bring the litrpg, gamelit, and fantasy genre to life.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Jessica Worgo jess@iowpod.com https://storage.buzzsprout.com/g0ecfiqa32ixyl4letpnele6q13o?.jpg In Other Worlds Get Trucked, Four Treasures Saga, and Anunnaki w/ Longwinded One Get Trucked, Four Treasures Saga, and Anunnaki w/ Longwinded One We kick off with The Four Treasures, a high fantasy LitRPG trilogy shaped by real Irish, Welsh, and Scottish lore. Then we downshift into Get Trucked, where the Bureau of Afterlife Dispatch are responsible for the people driving the trucks that isekai people into other worlds. To make the story more immersive, there’s a reader-facing app that mirrors the book’s systems. Finally, we unveil Anunnaki, a fresh upcoming LitRPG that fans of Ancient Aliens will recognize. Think ancient stakes in modern arenas, explicit systems that grow with the danger, and a legendary narrator’s voice to carry the wonder.

Connect w/Longwinded One:

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]]> We kick off with The Four Treasures, a high fantasy LitRPG trilogy shaped by real Irish, Welsh, and Scottish lore. Then we downshift into Get Trucked, where the Bureau of Afterlife Dispatch are responsible for the people driving the trucks that isekai people into other worlds. To make the story more immersive, there’s a reader-facing app that mirrors the book’s systems. Finally, we unveil Anunnaki, a fresh upcoming LitRPG that fans of Ancient Aliens will recognize. Think ancient stakes in modern arenas, explicit systems that grow with the danger, and a legendary narrator’s voice to carry the wonder.

Connect w/Longwinded One:

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> Jessica Worgo Buzzsprout-18774915 Mon, 02 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0500 3295 litrpg, get trucked, anunnaki, longwinded one, four treasures sage, breaking of annwn, children of the cold moon, fantasy 13 full true A Former Warrior Turns Trauma Into A Quest For Self A Former Warrior Turns Trauma Into A Quest For Self What does it take to turn real pain into a world worth exploring? We welcome author Lance Krautlarger to talk Arcane Tides: A Journey Within, a character-driven fantasy that treats mental health with honesty and heart. Eldrin’s path mirrors Lance’s own time leaving the service, navigating PTSD and anxiety, and relearning how to belong—first to himself, then to others.

We trace the book’s DNA from a single therapeutic writing session into a full draft. Then the hard part: cutting a 150k-word manuscript, fixing head-hopping, and compressing travel to keep momentum on the inner quest. Along the way, Sanderson lectures and classic epics influenced structure, but the true guides were therapy and self-help—voices that shaped tone, pace, and purpose.

The story gets personal through chapter-opening quotes lifted from Lance’s own journals. We also dive into the cozy layer: in-world books, a bark-and-amber cookbook, and real recipes—pumpkin bars, porridge, muffins—recast with magical ingredients. Food becomes a ritual of care, a way to ground panic and grief in the small good things.

Alara, inspired by a real friend who demanded help be sought, anchors Eldrin’s growth with judgment-free support. The cleric is a therapist in fantasy clothing, the journal a tool that only reveals what you’re ready to read—because validation can’t be borrowed, only claimed. By the end, Eldrin discovers that the point isn’t rank, adventure, or lore; it’s presence with family, the capacity to rest, and the courage to move forward without outside permission.

If this conversation resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review so more readers and writers can find it.

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

Youtube

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> What does it take to turn real pain into a world worth exploring? We welcome author Lance Krautlarger to talk Arcane Tides: A Journey Within, a character-driven fantasy that treats mental health with honesty and heart. Eldrin’s path mirrors Lance’s own time leaving the service, navigating PTSD and anxiety, and relearning how to belong—first to himself, then to others.

We trace the book’s DNA from a single therapeutic writing session into a full draft. Then the hard part: cutting a 150k-word manuscript, fixing head-hopping, and compressing travel to keep momentum on the inner quest. Along the way, Sanderson lectures and classic epics influenced structure, but the true guides were therapy and self-help—voices that shaped tone, pace, and purpose.

The story gets personal through chapter-opening quotes lifted from Lance’s own journals. We also dive into the cozy layer: in-world books, a bark-and-amber cookbook, and real recipes—pumpkin bars, porridge, muffins—recast with magical ingredients. Food becomes a ritual of care, a way to ground panic and grief in the small good things.

Alara, inspired by a real friend who demanded help be sought, anchors Eldrin’s growth with judgment-free support. The cleric is a therapist in fantasy clothing, the journal a tool that only reveals what you’re ready to read—because validation can’t be borrowed, only claimed. By the end, Eldrin discovers that the point isn’t rank, adventure, or lore; it’s presence with family, the capacity to rest, and the courage to move forward without outside permission.

If this conversation resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review so more readers and writers can find it.

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> Jessica Worgo Buzzsprout-18694266 Mon, 16 Feb 2026 14:00:00 -0500 3255 12 full true Reverse Isekai: Now we've got magic! Reverse Isekai: Now we've got magic! What if a portal fantasy didn’t whisk one hero away, but dropped an entire magical realm onto our world? That’s the theme behind Paragon Exordium, and today I sit down with author Mikel “Mick” Melwasul to discuss how a college town in Georgia becomes the frontline of a sprawling, character‑driven.

We explore the series central mystery, the Therin Selu, a cataclysmic spell meant to dodge a mythic flood, and how its fallout turns into magic finally returning. Mick shares why the world’s “castology” matters: runes, song, speech, and emotion aren’t just mechanics, they’re culture encoded, shaping grief, faith, and power. We also lean into ambiguity—Jadis bound to a sword, the Weeping King hiding power behind tears—and celebrate the lighter touch that makes the darkness land, from a cult‑favorite basilisk named Shadowfang to the beloved mushroom folk.

If you love reverse isekai worldbuilding, emotionally intelligent magic systems, and characters who force the plot to bend around their choices, this conversation is your map to Paragon. Listen, share with a friend who craves fresh fantasy, and leave a quick review to help more readers find the show. Then tell us: are you team Jadis, and which creatures do you want more of next?

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

Tiktok

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> What if a portal fantasy didn’t whisk one hero away, but dropped an entire magical realm onto our world? That’s the theme behind Paragon Exordium, and today I sit down with author Mikel “Mick” Melwasul to discuss how a college town in Georgia becomes the frontline of a sprawling, character‑driven.

We explore the series central mystery, the Therin Selu, a cataclysmic spell meant to dodge a mythic flood, and how its fallout turns into magic finally returning. Mick shares why the world’s “castology” matters: runes, song, speech, and emotion aren’t just mechanics, they’re culture encoded, shaping grief, faith, and power. We also lean into ambiguity—Jadis bound to a sword, the Weeping King hiding power behind tears—and celebrate the lighter touch that makes the darkness land, from a cult‑favorite basilisk named Shadowfang to the beloved mushroom folk.

If you love reverse isekai worldbuilding, emotionally intelligent magic systems, and characters who force the plot to bend around their choices, this conversation is your map to Paragon. Listen, share with a friend who craves fresh fantasy, and leave a quick review to help more readers find the show. Then tell us: are you team Jadis, and which creatures do you want more of next?

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> Jessica Worgo Buzzsprout-18610483 Mon, 02 Feb 2026 10:00:00 -0500 3390 11 full true Cat Girls, and Monster Girls, and Mechs, OH MY Cat Girls, and Monster Girls, and Mechs, OH MY I sit down with Edie Skye to explore how playful tones and decisive heroes (and monster girls) make harem fiction such a great genre. From Cat Girls From Outer Space to Titan Mage’s dragon-laced lore, we trace craft choices, collaboration, and why men’s romance is more wholesome than you think.

• Pen names and genre lanes across HP Hollow, Edie Skye, and Arcadia Sky
• Cat Girls From Outer Space as a spicy rework of Freelancers Of Neptune
• Why harem lands best with humor, banter, and self-awareness
• Men’s romance expectations for active, hyper-competent heroes
• Balancing escapism with scene-level struggle and real stakes
• Making intimacy integral to magic systems and culture
• Favorite characters, disability representation, and comedic leads
• Dragons as terraformers, world maps, and lore that clicks
• TikTok virality and the rise of men’s romance

Find Edie Skye at:

edieskye.com

TikTok/Instagram/Facebook: @EdieSkyAuthor

Patreon: EdieSkyAuthor

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

Youtube

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> I sit down with Edie Skye to explore how playful tones and decisive heroes (and monster girls) make harem fiction such a great genre. From Cat Girls From Outer Space to Titan Mage’s dragon-laced lore, we trace craft choices, collaboration, and why men’s romance is more wholesome than you think.

• Pen names and genre lanes across HP Hollow, Edie Skye, and Arcadia Sky
• Cat Girls From Outer Space as a spicy rework of Freelancers Of Neptune
• Why harem lands best with humor, banter, and self-awareness
• Men’s romance expectations for active, hyper-competent heroes
• Balancing escapism with scene-level struggle and real stakes
• Making intimacy integral to magic systems and culture
• Favorite characters, disability representation, and comedic leads
• Dragons as terraformers, world maps, and lore that clicks
• TikTok virality and the rise of men’s romance

Find Edie Skye at:

edieskye.com

TikTok/Instagram/Facebook: @EdieSkyAuthor

Patreon: EdieSkyAuthor

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> Jessica Worgo Buzzsprout-18532995 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0500 3491 10 full true What If The Dungeon IS The Good Guy? What If The Dungeon IS The Good Guy? We talk with Aaron Michael Ritchey about Shadowcroft Academy for Dungeons and its spin-off Dungeon Accountant, exploring why dungeons are the good guys, how silverware jokes became lore, and why an audit team can save worlds with data and heart. Along the way, we dig into writing speed, co-authoring, and the craft choices that keep high-concept ideas grounded and fun.

• Shadowcroft’s isekai hook and world-soul node stakes
• Logan’s fungaloid build and the underdog progression
• Found-family dynamics and humor that carries weight
• Dungeon Accountant’s audit squad and design fixes
• Ethics of dungeoneering guilds and redemption arcs
• Building dungeons from tropes to systems
• Silverware lore as Q-style gadget payoff
• Favorite dungeons across both series
• Community feedback, outlines, and collaboration

Find Aaron: aaronmritchey.com, shadowalleypress.com, and Facebook under Aaron Michael Ritchey
Find us: iowpod.com, YouTube @ iowpodcast, and Patreon @ iowpod

“As always, keep leveling up”

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> We talk with Aaron Michael Ritchey about Shadowcroft Academy for Dungeons and its spin-off Dungeon Accountant, exploring why dungeons are the good guys, how silverware jokes became lore, and why an audit team can save worlds with data and heart. Along the way, we dig into writing speed, co-authoring, and the craft choices that keep high-concept ideas grounded and fun.

• Shadowcroft’s isekai hook and world-soul node stakes
• Logan’s fungaloid build and the underdog progression
• Found-family dynamics and humor that carries weight
• Dungeon Accountant’s audit squad and design fixes
• Ethics of dungeoneering guilds and redemption arcs
• Building dungeons from tropes to systems
• Silverware lore as Q-style gadget payoff
• Favorite dungeons across both series
• Community feedback, outlines, and collaboration

Find Aaron: aaronmritchey.com, shadowalleypress.com, and Facebook under Aaron Michael Ritchey
Find us: iowpod.com, YouTube @ iowpodcast, and Patreon @ iowpod

“As always, keep leveling up”

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> Jessica Worgo Buzzsprout-18454558 Mon, 05 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0500 3448 9 full true When an MC becomes the villain with Rachel Ni Chuirc When an MC becomes the villain with Rachel Ni Chuirc An arcade robbery, a fatal shot, and a sudden awakening inside a favorite game... only not as the hero. Rachel Ni Chuirc joins me to unpack Knights of Eternity, a LitRPG trilogy that flips the script by dropping its protagonist into the villain’s body with Zara the Fury still in her head. What starts as a classic “save the princess” dungeon crawl unravels into a layered story about identity, agency, and the cost of choices when your own thoughts aren’t entirely your own.

We dig into how Rachel wrote the trilogy alongside her intense years on Baldur’s Gate 3, and why a pressure valve morning draft became a published series with Legion Publishers. She explains her “creamy” system design (immersive, character-led, and light on stats), and the craft behind alternating first-person chapters for the mc with third-person perspectives for everyone else. That structural shift delivers intimacy where it counts and scale where it matters. Expect honest talk about pantsing as a writing style, ruthless editing, and learning that the most powerful scenes are often quiet, human moments rather than big set pieces.

We also explore the broader world around the books and the warmth of the LitRPG community. Rachel shares early influences from anime to life in Japan, growing up over a book-filled shop in a tiny Irish town, and what’s next (a romantasy featuring a monster hunter and a sentient French-accented sword). If you care about game writing, audiobooks, or villains you can empathize with even as you want them to lose, this conversation is for you.

Enjoyed the episode? Follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review so we can bring more game-lit and fantasy authors to your feed.

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> An arcade robbery, a fatal shot, and a sudden awakening inside a favorite game... only not as the hero. Rachel Ni Chuirc joins me to unpack Knights of Eternity, a LitRPG trilogy that flips the script by dropping its protagonist into the villain’s body with Zara the Fury still in her head. What starts as a classic “save the princess” dungeon crawl unravels into a layered story about identity, agency, and the cost of choices when your own thoughts aren’t entirely your own.

We dig into how Rachel wrote the trilogy alongside her intense years on Baldur’s Gate 3, and why a pressure valve morning draft became a published series with Legion Publishers. She explains her “creamy” system design (immersive, character-led, and light on stats), and the craft behind alternating first-person chapters for the mc with third-person perspectives for everyone else. That structural shift delivers intimacy where it counts and scale where it matters. Expect honest talk about pantsing as a writing style, ruthless editing, and learning that the most powerful scenes are often quiet, human moments rather than big set pieces.

We also explore the broader world around the books and the warmth of the LitRPG community. Rachel shares early influences from anime to life in Japan, growing up over a book-filled shop in a tiny Irish town, and what’s next (a romantasy featuring a monster hunter and a sentient French-accented sword). If you care about game writing, audiobooks, or villains you can empathize with even as you want them to lose, this conversation is for you.

Enjoyed the episode? Follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review so we can bring more game-lit and fantasy authors to your feed.

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> Jessica Worgo Buzzsprout-18399249 Mon, 22 Dec 2025 12:00:00 -0500 4125 8 full true A pangolin and a desert druid with Joedan Worley A pangolin and a desert druid with Joedan Worley I sat down to talk with debut LitRPG author Joedan Worley about Wayspring Wanderer, a desert survival story where a wounded Marine becomes a druid whose greatest power is finding water. Craft, worldbuilding, grief, and a pangolin named Penny collide in a conversation about purpose, progression, and hope without shortcuts.

• Oscar’s transformation, loss, and search for his brother
• A druid in a dying desert where finding water means life or death
• Reimagined kobolds and lore influences
• Character-first writing and distinct voices
• Mental health, self-talk, and pushing through
• Penny the pangolin and why companions resonate
• Stakes, consequence, and avoiding convenience

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share

Find Joedans website here and his amazon page here

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> I sat down to talk with debut LitRPG author Joedan Worley about Wayspring Wanderer, a desert survival story where a wounded Marine becomes a druid whose greatest power is finding water. Craft, worldbuilding, grief, and a pangolin named Penny collide in a conversation about purpose, progression, and hope without shortcuts.

• Oscar’s transformation, loss, and search for his brother
• A druid in a dying desert where finding water means life or death
• Reimagined kobolds and lore influences
• Character-first writing and distinct voices
• Mental health, self-talk, and pushing through
• Penny the pangolin and why companions resonate
• Stakes, consequence, and avoiding convenience

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share

Find Joedans website here and his amazon page here

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> Jessica Worgo Buzzsprout-18318190 Mon, 08 Dec 2025 13:00:00 -0500 5548 7 full false Troll Armies, Virtual Reality, and the Backrooms - Now With Meat Ice Cream Troll Armies, Virtual Reality, and the Backrooms - Now With Meat Ice Cream A Marine reborn as a Witcher-style hunter. A hedge mage who becomes a dungeon troll and teaches NPCs to wake up. A virtual reality MMO where there are real stakes and consequences once the real world ends. A hungover everyman who turns the Backrooms into a lifeline with a map, a store, and a mimic dog made of blue croc material. James Hunter joins us to unpack how systems, stakes, and humor drive four wildly different LitRPG series and why readers keep craving bigger, stranger worlds.

Enjoyed the conversation? Follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review to help more LitRPG fans find us.

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> A Marine reborn as a Witcher-style hunter. A hedge mage who becomes a dungeon troll and teaches NPCs to wake up. A virtual reality MMO where there are real stakes and consequences once the real world ends. A hungover everyman who turns the Backrooms into a lifeline with a map, a store, and a mimic dog made of blue croc material. James Hunter joins us to unpack how systems, stakes, and humor drive four wildly different LitRPG series and why readers keep craving bigger, stranger worlds.

Enjoyed the conversation? Follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review to help more LitRPG fans find us.

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> Jessica Worgo Buzzsprout-18131151 Tue, 04 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0500 6212 full false From Dungeon Cores to Tennis Courts From Dungeon Cores to Tennis Courts Ever wondered what happens when you blend dungeon cores, tennis matches, wild west gunslingers, and competitive Magic: The Gathering into one creative mind? Journey with us as we sit down with Ryn, writing as Jonathan Smidt, the versatile author behind multiple LitRPG series including Elemental Dungeon, Dungeon Corps Online, Aced, Resonance, and Flamespitter.

Smidt's creative journey began unexpectedly when Portal Books approached her after reading her young adult fantasy on Wattpad. Despite having never heard of Dungeon Core fiction, she dove headfirst into the genre, consuming dozens of books before crafting what would become her first successful series. What followed was a remarkably diverse catalog spanning multiple topics and unique premises that reflect her real-world passions.

The conversation reveals how Smith's numerous hobbies directly influence her writing—from bladesmithing (which she learned partly to create weapons from her books) to competitive Magic: The Gathering, and her newfound love of tennis that sparked an entire sports LitRPG series. We explore the fascinating research behind her historical fantasy western Flamespitter, including how different cultures throughout the American West approach magic according to their values and worldviews.

Whether you're a fellow author seeking inspiration or a reader curious about the mind behind these imaginative worlds, this conversation offers a captivating glimpse into the creative alchemy that transforms diverse experiences into compelling fiction.

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> Ever wondered what happens when you blend dungeon cores, tennis matches, wild west gunslingers, and competitive Magic: The Gathering into one creative mind? Journey with us as we sit down with Ryn, writing as Jonathan Smidt, the versatile author behind multiple LitRPG series including Elemental Dungeon, Dungeon Corps Online, Aced, Resonance, and Flamespitter.

Smidt's creative journey began unexpectedly when Portal Books approached her after reading her young adult fantasy on Wattpad. Despite having never heard of Dungeon Core fiction, she dove headfirst into the genre, consuming dozens of books before crafting what would become her first successful series. What followed was a remarkably diverse catalog spanning multiple topics and unique premises that reflect her real-world passions.

The conversation reveals how Smith's numerous hobbies directly influence her writing—from bladesmithing (which she learned partly to create weapons from her books) to competitive Magic: The Gathering, and her newfound love of tennis that sparked an entire sports LitRPG series. We explore the fascinating research behind her historical fantasy western Flamespitter, including how different cultures throughout the American West approach magic according to their values and worldviews.

Whether you're a fellow author seeking inspiration or a reader curious about the mind behind these imaginative worlds, this conversation offers a captivating glimpse into the creative alchemy that transforms diverse experiences into compelling fiction.

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> Jessica Worgo Buzzsprout-17888629 Mon, 22 Sep 2025 19:00:00 -0400 3675 5 full false Dragons, Decks, and Deadlines: Inside Timothy McGowen's Creative Process Dragons, Decks, and Deadlines: Inside Timothy McGowen's Creative Process Timothy McGowen doesn't just write books – he crafts entire universes.

Dragonstone Academy represents McGowan's unique approach to worldbuilding through its innovative card-based magic system. Rather than conveniently giving his protagonist the perfect ability for each situation, McGowan created actual physical card decks, shuffled them, and let random draws determine the character's options during pivotal moments. This constraint forced organic problem-solving that makes the combat in the book even more unbelievable and realistic.

Surprisingly, several of McGowan's separate series exist within a shared universe, with characters occasionally crossing over between books. Careful readers will notice familiar faces appearing across different timelines and settings, all building toward an eventual convergence in a planned capstone series. With forthcoming projects including a John Wick-inspired apocalyptic tale for Aethon Publishing, a secret collaboration with a narrator, and a venture into a new genre under a pen name, McGowan's literary universe continues to expand in exciting directions.

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> Timothy McGowen doesn't just write books – he crafts entire universes.

Dragonstone Academy represents McGowan's unique approach to worldbuilding through its innovative card-based magic system. Rather than conveniently giving his protagonist the perfect ability for each situation, McGowan created actual physical card decks, shuffled them, and let random draws determine the character's options during pivotal moments. This constraint forced organic problem-solving that makes the combat in the book even more unbelievable and realistic.

Surprisingly, several of McGowan's separate series exist within a shared universe, with characters occasionally crossing over between books. Careful readers will notice familiar faces appearing across different timelines and settings, all building toward an eventual convergence in a planned capstone series. With forthcoming projects including a John Wick-inspired apocalyptic tale for Aethon Publishing, a secret collaboration with a narrator, and a venture into a new genre under a pen name, McGowan's literary universe continues to expand in exciting directions.

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> Jessica Worgo Buzzsprout-17614309 Tue, 05 Aug 2025 16:00:00 -0400 4167 4 full false Crafting Cozy Fantasy with SL Rowland Crafting Cozy Fantasy with SL Rowland Step into the magical worlds of SL Rowland as we explore the heartwarming charm of cozy fantasy and the exciting realms of LitRPG. From halfling vineyards to blood mages struggling with chronic pain, Rowland crafts stories that feel like coming home—even when dragons and adventure lurk around the corner.

Our conversation begins with "Halfling's Harvest," the third book in Rowland's Tales of Aedrea series, where we meet Marigold, proprietor of the Dew Drop Vineyard and Inn during the annual Harvest Festival. What makes this and all of Rowland's cozy fantasies special is the found family dynamic—characters that create a place of belonging for one another.

Perhaps most fascinating is how Rowland uses his own experiences as an inspiration for the blood mage protagonist in "Curse of Cocktails," who uses painful magic to protect the realm, at the cost of his own health. This personal connection adds profound authenticity to his fantasy world.

Rowland's approach to world-building is impressively ambitious. Aedrea spans nine realms with multiple races, governments, and a complex pantheon—created so he "could tell an endless amount of stories in dozens of locations." This expansive vision allows him to craft both cozy tales with future plans for grittier, more epic adventures in the same universe.

Before finding his cozy fantasy voice, Rowland established himself in the LitRPG genre with series like "Pangea Online" and "Sentence to Troll." Now, he's preparing to return to those roots with an expanded version of "Path to Villainy: An NPC Kobold's Tale," while also releasing his next cozy fantasy, "There Be Dragons Here," featuring a dwarven grandmother on one final adventure.

Whether you're already an avid cozy fantasy reader or new to the genre, SL Rowland's stories offer something special—worlds where magic feels real, characters feel like friends, and even the darkest challenges can be faced with warmth and humor.

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> Step into the magical worlds of SL Rowland as we explore the heartwarming charm of cozy fantasy and the exciting realms of LitRPG. From halfling vineyards to blood mages struggling with chronic pain, Rowland crafts stories that feel like coming home—even when dragons and adventure lurk around the corner.

Our conversation begins with "Halfling's Harvest," the third book in Rowland's Tales of Aedrea series, where we meet Marigold, proprietor of the Dew Drop Vineyard and Inn during the annual Harvest Festival. What makes this and all of Rowland's cozy fantasies special is the found family dynamic—characters that create a place of belonging for one another.

Perhaps most fascinating is how Rowland uses his own experiences as an inspiration for the blood mage protagonist in "Curse of Cocktails," who uses painful magic to protect the realm, at the cost of his own health. This personal connection adds profound authenticity to his fantasy world.

Rowland's approach to world-building is impressively ambitious. Aedrea spans nine realms with multiple races, governments, and a complex pantheon—created so he "could tell an endless amount of stories in dozens of locations." This expansive vision allows him to craft both cozy tales with future plans for grittier, more epic adventures in the same universe.

Before finding his cozy fantasy voice, Rowland established himself in the LitRPG genre with series like "Pangea Online" and "Sentence to Troll." Now, he's preparing to return to those roots with an expanded version of "Path to Villainy: An NPC Kobold's Tale," while also releasing his next cozy fantasy, "There Be Dragons Here," featuring a dwarven grandmother on one final adventure.

Whether you're already an avid cozy fantasy reader or new to the genre, SL Rowland's stories offer something special—worlds where magic feels real, characters feel like friends, and even the darkest challenges can be faced with warmth and humor.

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> Jessica Worgo Buzzsprout-17341941 Mon, 16 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -0400 3384 3 full false #2: Blood, Magic, and Conquest #2: Blood, Magic, and Conquest Step into a world where power comes at the ultimate price with Alex Knight, author of "Servant of Rage" and the upcoming goblin comedy "Wriggly Little Hands."

Alex brings us a mesmerizing fantasy world inspired by Mongolian horse nomads, featuring a magic system where killing transfers power from victim to victor.

The author shares fascinating insights about character development, explaining the complex relationships between three brothers who rediscover ancient magic. Alex embraces unpredictable character arcs that challenge reader expectations, promising that the planned trilogy will take these beloved characters through darkness before potential redemption.

Fantasy readers looking for their next epic read should visit authoralexknight.com to explore all of Alex's works.

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> Step into a world where power comes at the ultimate price with Alex Knight, author of "Servant of Rage" and the upcoming goblin comedy "Wriggly Little Hands."

Alex brings us a mesmerizing fantasy world inspired by Mongolian horse nomads, featuring a magic system where killing transfers power from victim to victor.

The author shares fascinating insights about character development, explaining the complex relationships between three brothers who rediscover ancient magic. Alex embraces unpredictable character arcs that challenge reader expectations, promising that the planned trilogy will take these beloved characters through darkness before potential redemption.

Fantasy readers looking for their next epic read should visit authoralexknight.com to explore all of Alex's works.

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> Jessica Worgo Buzzsprout-17263469 Tue, 03 Jun 2025 16:00:00 -0400 3515 2 full false Episode 1: TJ Lombardi Episode 1: TJ Lombardi On this premiere episode of In Other Worlds podcast, TJ takes us through his creative journey from concept to publication. Blending the nostalgic warmth of Pokemon with the mech battles of Pacific Rim and Gundam, Golem Master represents something unique in his catalog. Unlike his darker Dying Breed and Scalpel Chronicles series, this young adult adventure aims for accessibility without sacrificing emotional depth. "I wanted a story that a dad and his son could listen to while driving on a fishing trip," TJ explains, "but with real life lessons woven throughout."

What's next for the Golem Master series? TJ reveals his plans to expand to five books, with increasingly epic stakes as protagonist Pepper's journey intersects with the mysterious Rift Wars. Book two releases June 20th, with more revelations about the demons threatening this fantastical world. For readers captivated by TJ's mechanical golems and emotional storytelling, there's plenty more adventure on the horizon.

Ready to step into a world where Pokemon meets Pacific Rim? Dive into Golem Master and follow TJ's journey at Facebook.com/TDB or through his Patreon at Warrior Publishing.

You can find TJ's book on Amazon here:

**The Dying Breed book 1 - https://amzn.to/43fmdzG

**Bloodbath Chronicles book 1 - https://amzn.to/3GShIDT

**Golem Master book 1 - https://amzn.to/3S2hTPa

You can find TJ online at these website:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TDBSeries

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@tjlombardi

Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/WarriorPublishing

**Amazon links are affiliate links. If you'd like to not use them you can search TJ Lombardi on Amazon to see all of his available titles.

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> On this premiere episode of In Other Worlds podcast, TJ takes us through his creative journey from concept to publication. Blending the nostalgic warmth of Pokemon with the mech battles of Pacific Rim and Gundam, Golem Master represents something unique in his catalog. Unlike his darker Dying Breed and Scalpel Chronicles series, this young adult adventure aims for accessibility without sacrificing emotional depth. "I wanted a story that a dad and his son could listen to while driving on a fishing trip," TJ explains, "but with real life lessons woven throughout."

What's next for the Golem Master series? TJ reveals his plans to expand to five books, with increasingly epic stakes as protagonist Pepper's journey intersects with the mysterious Rift Wars. Book two releases June 20th, with more revelations about the demons threatening this fantastical world. For readers captivated by TJ's mechanical golems and emotional storytelling, there's plenty more adventure on the horizon.

Ready to step into a world where Pokemon meets Pacific Rim? Dive into Golem Master and follow TJ's journey at Facebook.com/TDB or through his Patreon at Warrior Publishing.

You can find TJ's book on Amazon here:

**The Dying Breed book 1 - https://amzn.to/43fmdzG

**Bloodbath Chronicles book 1 - https://amzn.to/3GShIDT

**Golem Master book 1 - https://amzn.to/3S2hTPa

You can find TJ online at these website:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TDBSeries

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@tjlombardi

Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/WarriorPublishing

**Amazon links are affiliate links. If you'd like to not use them you can search TJ Lombardi on Amazon to see all of his available titles.

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> Jessica Buzzsprout-17147471 Tue, 13 May 2025 19:00:00 -0400 3264 1 full false In Other Worlds trailer In Other Worlds trailer Podcast trailer for In Other Worlds: A LitRPG, Gamelit, and Fantasy podcast. Every other week, your host Jess will be sitting down with the authors and audiobook narrators that bring these epic tales to life.

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> Podcast trailer for In Other Worlds: A LitRPG, Gamelit, and Fantasy podcast. Every other week, your host Jess will be sitting down with the authors and audiobook narrators that bring these epic tales to life.

*affiliate links for amazon included, so I might make a TINY commission when you buy. It won't change the cost or amount that goes to the author*

You can connect with me here:

You can also subscribe to my newsletter on my website to get episode reminders, access to unedited episodes, a monthly list of upcoming titles and the chance at a free book from each author I interview.

]]> Jessica Worgo Buzzsprout-17031168 Wed, 23 Apr 2025 17:00:00 -0400 50 trailer false