Rock Paper Write Podcast

In this episode of Rock Paper Write, Amy L. Watkins talks with award-winning author Constance Hays Matsumoto about her book, Fact & Fiction: How to Write a Novel Inspired by Family and History, a practical guide for writers who want to transform family history and historical research into compelling fiction.
Connie shares what she learned while writing Of White Ashes, how she balances historical fact with storytelling, and why she included her “Pearls of Wisdom” to encourage writers along the way. She also talks about the inspiration behind the book’s foreword and how Fact & Fiction can support writers and educators.
Whether you’re writing historical fiction, exploring your family history, or simply looking for guidance on turning research into story, this conversation offers insight and inspiration for writers at any stage.
Learn more at: Matsumoto Books
Book Launch Party: Delaware Book Launch Party August 30th

What if the future of medicine lies not only in our genes, but in the microscopic world living inside us?
In this fascinating episode of Rock Paper Write, Amy Watkins sits down with Dr. Ian A. Myles—physician, immunologist, researcher, and author—to explore the science behind his thought-provoking books, In Which Winnie-The-Pooh Protects the Hundred Acre Wood from Eczema (co-written with Dr. Nadia Bhandari)  and GATTACA Has Fallen. Together, they discuss how the human microbiome influences our health, why modern lifestyles may be disrupting our immune systems, and what the future of genetics and personalized medicine could mean for all of us.
Dr. Myles also shares his journey from scientific researcher to author, offering insight into how he transforms complex medical research into engaging, accessible books for readers. Whether you're interested in science, healthcare, writing, or simply curious about the hidden ecosystems that shape our lives, this conversation will leave you thinking differently about the world within us.
In this episode, you'll discover:
Why the microbiome plays a critical role in human health
How modern hygiene and environmental changes affect our immune systems
The ideas behind GATTACA Has Fallen and the future of genetics
Dr. Myles' writing process for translating science into compelling stories
Join us for an engaging conversation where science meets storytelling—and discover why some of the biggest breakthroughs in health may be invisible to the naked eye.

Join us on Rock Paper Write as we chat with author Justine Cowan about her novel, The Bee Catchers: A Love Story to Bees with a Happy Ending—a heartfelt story that celebrates the importance of bees, community, and the environment.
Justine shares the inspiration behind her book, her writing journey, and why protecting pollinators matters. Learn more about Justine and her work at thebeecatchers.com.
You can also find her books through Kensington Row Bookshop, and meet her in person at an upcoming book signing at the Urban Winery in Silver Spring.

Second Sunday Presents: Maria Leonard Olsen — How to Land a TEDx Talk
Join us for an inspiring and practical conversation with Maria Leonard Olsen, a two-time TEDx speaker, author, attorney, journalist, and award-winning podcaster. Drawing from her own experience speaking on the TEDx stage, Maria shared actionable strategies for securing a TEDx Talk and using it as a powerful platform to amplify your message, expand your audience, and elevate your author brand.
During the session, Maria offered valuable insights, including:
Identifying a compelling "idea worth spreading" that aligns with TEDx values.
Researching TEDx events that are the right fit for your expertise and story.
Crafting a strong application that highlights your unique perspective and credibility.
Developing a talk that is focused, memorable, and audience-centered.
Leveraging a TEDx Talk to increase visibility, attract speaking opportunities, and support book marketing efforts.
Building your platform before and after the talk through strategic networking and promotion.
Maria's acclaimed TEDx talk, Turning Life's Challenges Into a Force for Good, explores how personal adversity can become a catalyst for growth, purpose, and positive change. The talk was later selected as a TEDx Editor's Pick, a distinction awarded to fewer than 1% of TEDx Talks.
Watch Maria's TEDx Talk:Turning Life's Challenges Into a Force for Good
Learn more about Maria and her work:Maria Leonard Olsen Official Website
Maria's bestselling book, 50 After 50: Reframing the Next Chapter of Your Life, is available through Kensington Row Bookshop. Readers can also look forward to her forthcoming book, Before and After the DNA Test: A Practical Guide to Genetic Privacy, Medical Risks and Family Secrets, scheduled for publication by Bloomsbury.
Thank you to Maria for sharing her expertise and encouraging authors, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders to take the next step toward bringing their ideas to a larger stage.

Join us for this month’s Second Sunday Presents as we welcome Dian Seidel for an engaging conversation about DIY Book Festivals and how authors, educators, and literary communities can create meaningful events without a huge budget or corporate backing. Dian shares practical tips for organizing successful festivals, building community partnerships, attracting authors and readers, and creating memorable experiences that celebrate books and storytelling.
Whether you’re an indie author, teacher, librarian, or book lover dreaming of hosting your own literary event, this episode is packed with inspiration and real-world advice to help you get started. Tune in to learn how grassroots book festivals can connect communities, support local authors, and keep the love of reading alive.
For more information about Dian and our other local authors in the program, go to Kensington Row Authors.

In this episode, we sit down with Patrick B. Simpson to discuss his newly released novel, Reilly: A Truman Pierce Novel. We dive into the return of Truman Pierce, the emotional stakes behind the story, and Patrick’s approach to crafting modern noir fiction filled with mystery, grit, and heart. Patrick also shares insights into his writing process, the evolution of the Truman Pierce series, and what readers can expect next.
Patrick B. Simpson is the author of multiple novels and short stories, including Pierce and Absolution. His work has been praised for blending classic noir atmosphere with contemporary crime storytelling. 
FUN FACT: We interviewed Patrick for his debut novel, Pierce (episode 6 if you missed it).
Listeners can connect with Patrick and learn more about his books at patsimpsonwrites.com. His novels are available through major book retailers, including the Kensington Row Bookshop  other bookstores and online book platforms.

In this episode of Second Sunday Presents, Amy L. Watkins takes listeners on a creative journey from Canva to classrooms—and far beyond. Blending her experience as an educator, podcaster, and publishing advocate, Amy shares how simple design tools can transform teaching, storytelling, and community engagement. From creating eye-catching classroom materials to supporting authors and small businesses with accessible design, this conversation highlights the power of creativity in everyday spaces. Whether you’re an educator, writer, or entrepreneur, you’ll walk away inspired to turn your ideas into impactful visuals and meaningful connections.

Second Sunday Presents welcomes Katherine Pickett for a practical and insightful conversation about author websites—what they are, why they matter, and how to make yours work for you. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, Katherine shares tips on creating a site that reflects your voice, connects with readers, and supports your writing goals. From essential pages to common mistakes, this episode is packed with guidance to help you build an online presence that feels authentic and effective.

In this episode, we talk with geologist and author Bob Dover about exploring Washington, D.C. through an unexpected lens—its bridges. In Bridges of Washington, D.C.: A History & Guide, Bob uncovers how geology, geography, and human movement have shaped the city’s growth from the 1700s to today.
We discuss what inspired him to tell D.C.’s story through bridges, how his geology background influences his perspective, and how bridges reflect broader shifts in design, transportation, and culture. Bob also shares a standout bridge story and explains how these structures connect not just places, but people and history.
He reflects on his journey from writing travel narratives to publishing Bridgespotting: A Guide to Bridges that Connect People, Places, and Times, and how that led to this deeper exploration of his hometown.
Find his books through major booksellers and learn more at https://www.bridgespotting.com/ and you can find his signed books locally at https://www.kensingtonrowbookshop.com/

In this special edition of Second Sunday Presents, we’re joined by branding strategist and publishing expert Eric O'Neill for a powerful conversation on what it truly means to build an author brand.
More than logos and color palettes, author branding is about clarity, consistency, and connection. Eric breaks down how writers can define their unique voice, position themselves in the marketplace, and create a cohesive presence across platforms—from websites and social media to book launches and speaking engagements.
Whether you’re a debut author or a seasoned writer ready to level up, this episode offers practical strategies and mindset shifts to help you stand out, build trust with readers, and grow your impact.
Tune in to discover how to move from simply publishing books to building a brand that lasts.