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 133: Shadow of the Deceiver with Dr. Wayne Runde – Sharing the Heart of the Matter

In this episode, Vicki Atkinson and Wynne Leon talk with Wayne Runde. Wayne is an author, physician and veteran US Navy Commander.Wayne tells us about his book, Shadow of the Deceiver, the third installment in The Genesis Trust series. We hear about why he was called to start writing even with his busy schedule and a fascinating set of hobbies. We ask about the intersection of science, morality and humanity that is a cornerstone for his writing and stories. Wayne tell us where he finds inspirations for characters from his professional life and his personal interactions within his church community.This is a great episode with an author that has re-imagined a sci-fi classic through a meaningful lens. We know you’ll love it.Links for this episode:⁠Wayne Runde's⁠ websiteShadow of the Deceiver: The Genesis Trust, Book 3 on ⁠Amazon ⁠and ⁠Barnes & Noble⁠From the hosts:Vicki’s book about resilience and love: ⁠Surviving Sue⁠; Blog: ⁠https://victoriaponders.com/⁠Wynne's blog: ⁠https://wynneleon.com ⁠

1. Episode 133: Shadow of the Deceiver with Dr. Wayne Runde 17:22
2. Episode 132: South Side Memories with Gloria Golec 26:09
3. Episode 131: Attacking the Dragon with Marc Ross 24:05
4. Episode 130: Take Me Back to Chicago with Doug E. Jones 28:12
5. Episode 129: Wish I Was Here with Ilsa Rey 31:47

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)