The Heart of the Matter

My kids have learned about the 80’s from a YouTube Kids video. When I replied to a fact about the 80’s with “rad,” my 6-year-old looked at me wide-eyed and asked, “How did you know that?” I had to confess that I was alive in the 80’s. And, not only that – the 70’s too!

Isn’t it fascinating how different eras have such tangible feels? It’s one of the reasons that I love Doug E. Jones book, Take Me Back to Chicago. It’s set in 1974 Chicago and brings to life that era in music, sports, cars, and more in delightful detail!

In this episode of the podcast, the fabulous Vicki Atkinson and I engage with novelist Doug E. Jones about Take Me Back to Chicago. Our conversation delves into the rich tapestry of 1974 Chicago, exploring the characters, music, and personal connections that shape the narrative.

Doug also shares insights into his transition from TV writing as a writer for the tv show Charmed (and more) to novel writing. We also talk about the thematic elements of his work, and the humor that permeates his storytelling. This episode highlights the importance of character dynamics and the personal experiences that inform Doug’s writing, making it a delightful exploration of both the book and the author’s journey.

Takeaways

• Doug E. Jones’s novel is set in 1974 Chicago, rich with cultural references.
• The protagonist, Rick, faces a significant debt left by his father.
• The book features strong female characters, including Rick’s daughter Elena.
• Doug’s writing process involves integrating real Chicago characters and events.
• The transition from TV writing to novel writing was liberating for Doug.
• Music plays a crucial role in setting the tone of the story.
• The character dynamics between Rick and his friend Javi add humor and depth.
• Historical context is woven into the narrative, enhancing the story’s richness.
• Doug’s personal experiences influence the characters and settings in his novels.
• The book is described as a ‘beach read’—entertaining and engaging.

Heads up! This is an episode that has already aired on the How to Share podcast so you may have already listened to it.

Here’s Doug with the elevator pitch for Take Me Back to Chicago

Here are some ways you can listen and watch to the full episode:

• The podcast player embedded below
• Click to view in browser: Episode 130: Take Me Back to Chicago with Doug E. Jones
• Subscribe to Sharing the Heart of the Matter on Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts or Pocketcasts
• Watch the YouTube video of the podcast here: https://youtu.be/bN3-05zqJfA?si=WWtTNixYLK-qqTNm

Episode 135: This Sea Within with Deborah Brasket – Sharing the Heart of the Matter

In this episode of Sharing the Heart of the Matter, hosts Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson talk with novelist Deborah Brasket about her new book, This Sea Within, a sweeping historical novel that blends political intrigue, love,coming-of-age, and spiritual longing. Deborah shares how her world travels, deep research, and personal reflections shaped a story rich with danger, beauty, and purpose. Together, they explore the connection between the sensualand the spiritual, the power of story to illuminate history, and what it means to be called by something greater than yourself. If you love thoughtful conversations about books, creativity, courage, and the deeper currents that move our lives, this episode is for you.Links for this episode:When Things Go Missing, A Novel – Amazon,Bookshop, Barnes & Noble This Sea Within – Pre-order on Amazon Author Website and BlogSubstack NewsletterInstagramFrom the hosts:Vicki’s new book – a ghost story, Slivers. Her book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue; Blog: https://victoriaponders.com/Wynne's blog: Surprised by Joy and podcast: The Life of Try

1. Episode 135: This Sea Within with Deborah Brasket 24:23
2. Episode 134: Perfect with P.J. Gudka 22:15
3. Episode 133: Shadow of the Deceiver with Dr. Wayne Runde 17:22
4. Episode 132: South Side Memories with Gloria Golec 26:09
5. Episode 131: Attacking the Dragon with Marc Ross 24:05

Links for this episode:

How to Share1970’s Chicago transcript

Take Me Back to Chicago by Doug E. Jones on Eckhartz Press

Q&A with Take Me Back to Chicago author Doug E. Jones

From the Hosts:

Vicki’s book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue; Blog: https://victoriaponders.com/

My book about my beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith

(featured photo from Pexels)