Hosted by blogger and author Kimberley A. Johnson.'Start Me Up' isn't just any other podcast. I'm willing to call BS when I see it and I don't care if it's coming from a rightwinger or a self-professed bleedingheart liberal. I'm not always politically correct and I'm a huge fan of loose talk and salty language. Sarcasm is guaranteed and political correctness will be at a minimum. This podcast is for anyone who wants to listen to compelling conversations with a variety of guests about current ...
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Kimberley A Johnson Podcasts
“The Bookish Introverts Podcast” delves into the quiet joys of books with hosts Amazon Best-Selling Christian Fiction Author Brett Nelson and avid reader Melanie Dyer. Together, they explore the profound impact of fiction on introverted souls as they unravel tales, share insights, interact with authors, and maybe even bring a few “special guest readers” along the way. Quiet minds, big bookshelves. You don’t want to miss it.
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David Pepper is a lawyer, writer, political activist, former elected official, and adjunct professor, and served as the Chairman of the Ohio Democratic Party between 2015 and 2021. He's the author of Laboratories of Autocracy and Saving Democracy. Topics: Courts say Trump tariffs are illegal--but will he obey the courts, and how would his defiance …
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Interview w/ Shelley Shepard Gray/NYT Best-Selling Author of Amish Fiction
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Host and author Brett Nelson talks with New York Times bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray, who shares her journey to becoming a prolific writer of Amish fiction. They discuss the balance of romance and suspense in her upcoming novel 'Unshaken.' Shelley reflects on her experiences with the Amish community, the challenges of the writing process,…
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Beta Readers and Why Authors Need Them/Bookish Discussion
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If you enjoy behind the scenes looks of the novel-writing process, this episode is for you! Author and host Brett Nelson brings back author Heidi Grey McGill and beta reader Stephanie Brank Leupp to discuss the intricacies of the writing process, focusing on the vital role of beta readers as well as other interesting discussions. They explore how b…
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Start Me Up: Jennifer Taylor-Skinner
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Jennifer Taylor-Skinner is a writer, essayist, and creator & host of the award-winning podcast, The Electorette—one of the longest-running feminist podcasts, offering analyses and solutions to the world's biggest political and social challenges, all through the lens of women. Topics: Both of us feel more hopeful about democracy than we did six mont…
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Tracie Peterson/Kimberley Woodhouse Author Interview "An Unexpected Grace"
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In EPISODE 5 of the Baker Publishing Author Event, author and host Brett Nelson talks with authors Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse about their collaborative work in Christian historical fiction, particularly focusing on their latest book, 'An Unexpected Grace.' They discuss their individual journeys as authors, the co-writing process, and t…
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Interview w/ NYT Best-Selling Author Jane Kirkpatrick/Baker Publishing Summer Author Event
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In episode FOUR of the Baker Publishing Author Summer Event, host and author Brett Nelson interviews Jane Kirkpatrick, a New York Times bestselling author known for her historical fiction. They discuss her upcoming novel, "Across the Crying Sands," Jane's journey as a writer, her numerous awards, and the importance of storytelling in connecting cul…
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Liz Johnson Interview "Sometimes You Stay" Romance Author
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In the third episode of the Baker Publishing Summer Event, host and author Brett Nelson and co-host Charity Middleton talk to Liz Johnson about her upcoming Christian Fiction novel "Sometimes You Stay". They explore the intricacies of the writing process, the emotional highs and lows of being an author, and the importance of community and support a…
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Kiersten is such a delight. No politics today. We chatted about her book, I wish I were an Ocelot: Adventures of an Essential Kitten; upcoming projects; the hate Pamela Anderson is getting for being and looking 57; the pressure women are under to look sexy (for others) their entire lives, and much, much more. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircl…
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Interview with Hist Fict Author Ann Gabhart "The Pursuit of Elena Bradford"/Baker Publishing Summer Series #2
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In the second installment of the Baker Publishing Group Summer series event, Brett Nelson talks with author Anne Gabhart, who shares her journey in writing historical fiction, her experiences with community and church, and insights into the publishing industry. They discuss her latest book, 'The Pursuit of Alina Bradford,' and explore themes of fam…
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Start Me Up: Stephanie Dominguez Walton
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Stephanie is back!!!! No prep...just two best friends talking about what's happening out there. Steph talked up Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker and shared what happened when she met him; Stephanie passionately discusses the importance of providing healthcare to all, regardless of immigration status or other factors, emphasizing it as a human right; we ta…
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Suzanne Woods Fisher Author Interview "Capture the Moment"
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Host Brett Nelson and Christian Fiction author Suzanne Woods Fisher discuss her journey as an author, her new book 'Capture the Moment', and the importance of exploring diverse themes in writing. She shares insights on the publishing industry, the significance of the Plain people, and the allure of national parks. The discussion highlights the chal…
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Cheri is back! Today's show was more about our personal lives wth a little bit of politics thrown in. Topics: What we do for self-care; Cheri weighs in on what may happen to Social Security; she also shared that surviving cancer has resulted in a healthier lifestyle; we shared rumors we heard about sex before we were sexually active, and we ended w…
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Author Interview Heidi Gray McGill "Written on my Heart"
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Brett Nelson and Heidi Gray McGill discuss her historical fiction novel, "Written on my Heart." Discussion includes the importance of weaving faith into stories and the challenges of writing in a historical context. In this engaging conversation, Heidi and Brett explore the intricacies of character development in fiction, the lessons embedded in st…
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Start Me Up: Author Ann Werner (My Mom)
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Topics: We discussed Ann's latest book series, "After the Apocalypse," and the Democratic party's response to the current political climate, focusing on the recent win of an important Supreme Court seat in Wisconsin and Cory Booker's 25-hour Senate filibuster. Ann emphasized the importance of Democrats showing up to town halls and engaging with con…
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Jody is Back!!! We avoided politics save for one piece of good news. I record on Zoom and this was the AI description of the show (lol) Kimberley and Jody discussed their personal experiences, including their emotional struggles, lottery wins, and encounters with celebrities. They also reminisced about their shared past, including their childhood t…
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Kelly Whitehead "Darkness Trembles" Author Interview/Spiritual Warfare
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Brett Nelson and Christian Fiction author Kelly Whitehead discuss the themes of spiritual warfare as explored in her book, 'Darkness Trembles.' They delve into the journey of writing, the influence of authors like Frank Peretti, and the challenges faced by first-time authors. The discussion also touches on the importance of discipleship and the pub…
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Christopher Bouzy is a serial entrepreneur, software engineer, and political maven and he’s the founder and CEO of both Bot Sentinel and Spoutible.com. Topics: We talked about the current state of the country and the need for stronger resistance against the fascist regime. Christopher's opinion on what happened in the 2024 election has evolved. We …
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When Crickets Cry/Charles Martin Book Discussion/PART THREE
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In PART THREE of this three-part episode, Brett and Charity delve into a profound book that intertwines themes of love, loss, and the medical profession. The hosts discuss the journey of Reese, a doctor, as he navigates the complexities of his career while dealing with personal tragedies. The narrative explores the emotional weight of medical decis…
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Charles Martin's "When Crickets Cry" Book Discussion/PART TWO
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In PART TWO of this three-part episode, Brett and Charity delve into the themes and character dynamics of 'When Crickets Cry' by Charles Martin. They explore the intricacies of relationships, the impact of grief and love, and the spiritual reflections tied to the human heart. The discussion highlights the significance of nature in connecting with s…
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"When Crickets Cry" by Charles Martin Book Discussion/PART ONE
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In PART ONE of this three-part episode, Brett and Charity discuss 'When Crickets Cry' by Charles Martin, exploring its themes of faith, friendship, and the complexities of life through the lens of its characters. They delve into the author's background, the narrative structure, and the emotional impact of the story, while also reflecting on their p…
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D. Earl Stephens is the author of "Toxic Tales: A Caustic Collection of Donald J. Trump's Very Important Letters." He's the former managing editor of Stars & Stripes, a Navy vet, and a prolific writer. His Substack: Enough Already Earl and I are pissed off and we vented BIGLY! We discussed the corrupt influence of money in politics and how it impac…
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Start Me Up: Steve Pierson of the The Practivist Podcast
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Steve Pierson is back! He is an activist and seasoned campaign organizer who has dedicated his career to empowering grassroots movements. He and Jess Craven have launched The Practivist Pod -- the practice of activism made practical. Topics: Steve shared the news about his new podcast and then we discussed the importance of focusing on gratitude in…
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PART TWO/Vanishing Point by Lisa Harris/Christian Fiction Suspense Book Discussion
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In PART TWO of this two-part episode, Brett and guest co-host Jessica discuss "Vanishing Point" a Christian fiction suspense novel by USA Today best-selling author Lisa Harris. They explore character development, the impact of time jumps in stories, and the dynamics of romantic tension between the main characters. The discussion also veers into the…
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Vanishing Point by Lisa Harris/PART ONE/Christian Fiction Suspense Book Discussion
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In PART ONE of this two-part episode, Brett and guest co-host Jessica delve into the Christian Fiction suspense novel 'Vanishing Point' by USA Today best-selling author Lisa Harris. They explore themes of suspense and the complexities of forgiveness in the face of tragedy. The conversation touches on the role of God in difficult situations and the …
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Greg Olear is back! He's the author of Rough Beast, PREVAIL columnist & podcaster, and co-host of The Five 8 on YouTube. Topics: We discussed our concerns about the current political climate, including the potential threat to Social Security and Medicare, and the importance of a shift in the political landscape. We also discussed the potential impa…
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PART 3/"Facing the Dawn" by Cynthia Ruchti/Book Discussion
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In PART 3, Brett and guest co-host Charity discuss Cynthia Ruchti's novel "Facing the Dawn," that explores themes of grief, healing, and the importance of faith and friendship. The discussion emphasizes the significance of spiritual nourishment, the role of community support, and the necessity of addressing mental health in the context of faith. Th…
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"Facing the Dawn" by Cynthia Ruchti/PART 2/Book Discussion
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Brett and guest co-host Charity delve into Cynthia Ruchti's book 'Facing the Dawn,' exploring its themes of grief, parenting, and the importance of friendship. They reflect on the relatable experiences of the protagonist, Mara, as she navigates the challenges of motherhood and loss, while also highlighting the humor that permeates the narrative. Th…
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Host Chat/PART 1/Brett Nelson and Charity Middleton/Bookish Introverts Podcast
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Brett and guest co-host Charity Middleton discuss their experiences with reading, favorite authors, and the dynamics of podcasting. They explore the impact of literature on their lives, the role of Christian fiction, and how to navigate family dynamics through books. The conversation also touches on the challenges of finding time to read in a busy …
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Writer/Director Jay Arnold is back! He directed and wrote the original screenplay for the 2023 award-winning romantic drama “Shoulder Dance.” Jay’s first Documentary “Sergio Dondoli’s Happy Life” releases in Spring 2025. Topics: First, we talked about his upcoming documentary and then chatted a bit about self-care. Then we got into politics: Musk h…
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Tara is back! She's a prominent resister, a freelance writer, and the author of THE SOUND OF SETTLING, A Rock & Roll Love Story. Topics: Tara talks about her book and why she wrote it. We both spent time discussing the importance of self-care and how to achieve goals with how we think and what we believe is possible. Then we focused on how Democrat…
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Redeeming Love Book Discussion/PART 2/Bookish Introverts Podcast
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In Part 2, the conversation delves into the complex themes of trauma, identity, and relationships as the characters navigate their emotional struggles and confront their pasts. The discussion highlights the importance of acceptance, love, and the journey towards healing, as well as the sacrifices made for the sake of others' happiness as depicted i…
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"Redeeming Love" Book Discussion/Part 1/Bookish Introverts Podcast
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Brett and Melanie, along with guest reader Jessica Riggins, discuss the profound themes of Francine Rivers' novel 'Redeeming Love.' The conversation delves into the heavy themes of love and redemption in the book, and the historical context that shapes the characters' experiences. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding the past whil…
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Sarah Wood is back and she's extra sweary today. We love when she's sweary and there's a lot to swear about! Topics: the fascists want to overwhelm us so we disengage; Trump 2.0 will be worse than Trump 1.0 because many guardrails are gone but we still have power and we need to use it; focusing on self-care is vital; Germany knows Elon gave a Nazi …
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Mo Collins is an actress and comedian. A few of her credits include MadTV; Arrested Development, Curb Your Enthusiasm; Parks and Recreation; 40-Year-Old Virgin and much more. After talking about the devastating fires in Southern California, Mo shared a bit about her life growing up in Minnesota, how she got into improv and comedy; what it's been li…
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"Christmas Blizzard" by Lexie Nicholas Book Discussion Part 2
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In PART TWO of this two-part episode, Brett Nelson and guest host Lexie Nicholas delve into the themes and character dynamics of her book 'Christmas Blizzard.' They explore the intricacies of small-town life, the challenges faced by the protagonist Cassie, and the romantic tensions that arise amidst personal struggles. The conversation also touches…
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