Today we're diving into a gripping mystery that unfolds during the tumultuous Don't Ask, Don't Tell era in the military. Our guest, Darryl Barry, a retired army officer turned novelist, shares his firsthand experiences and insights into a world where hidden pressures and quiet battles are all too real for gay service members. His book isn’t just about being gay in the military; it’s a powerful mystery that explores the complexities and challenges faced by those in uniform, all while weaving in themes of suspense and authenticity. As we chat, Darryl gives us a sneak peek into the storyline, where a group of gay officers is unwittingly sent on a dangerous mission under the watchful eyes of those who wish to see them fail. So buckle up, because this episode is packed with intriguing discussions about military life, writing, and the importance of representation in literature. Let’s get into it!

Takeaways:

1. Darryl Barry's mystery novel dives into the hidden struggles of gay service members during the Don't Ask, Don't Tell era, highlighting their unique pressures and challenges.
2. The book is not just about being gay in the military; it combines elements of suspense and authenticity that make it an engaging mystery for all readers.
3. Darryl emphasizes the importance of separating personal life from military duty, a theme that resonates deeply with veterans and active service members alike.
4. The writing process can be daunting, but Darryl encourages aspiring authors to simply start writing without overthinking or worrying about perfection.
5. With a mix of humor and serious themes, this podcast explores how personal experiences shape storytelling, especially for veteran authors tackling sensitive subjects.
6. Darryl's journey from self-publishing to traditional publishing illustrates the various paths authors can take, showcasing the benefits and challenges of each approach.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. Dberrybooks.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Atmosphere Press

Burning Man isn't just a wild desert party; it's a transformative experience that challenges our notions of community and belonging. In this episode, I chat with Sarah Marshall, author of "Play A Dust in My Soul," who shares her journey from a cautious traveler to a full-fledged participant in this unique festival. We dive into her personal experiences at Burning Man, where she confronted her identity and learned the importance of accepting community invitations. Sarah's insights reveal how the event's principles, like radical self-reliance and the gift economy, can reshape our interactions and perceptions. Join us as we explore how fiction can convey profound truths and the healing power of storytelling, all wrapped up in the vibrant chaos that is Burning Man. A casual chat unfolds with the wonderful Sarah Marshall, who dives deep into her journey from being a military strategist to a creative spirit and author. With a life rich in experiences across six continents, Sarah shares how her novel, "Play A Dust in My Soul," is a reflection of her transformative journey. She candidly discusses her transition and how attending Burning Man sparked a pivotal change in her identity. It's a journey of self-discovery, belonging, and the importance of embracing one’s true self. Sarah's tales from the Playa offer insights into the gift economy and the vibrant community of Burning Man, where everyone is a participant, not just an observer. Expect laughs, a few heartfelt moments, and a dazzling exploration of what it means to truly belong in a world that often seeks to separate us. The episode also dives into the nitty-gritty of writing itself. Sarah reminisces about the struggle of turning personal experiences into a fictional narrative that resonates with readers. She emphasizes the importance of persistence, discussing how she toiled over her manuscript for over two decades, refining her characters and their arcs. Each character in her story reflects a part of her journey, embodying the complexities of identity and the quest for acceptance. It's a celebration of creativity, healing through storytelling, and the magic that happens when we share our truths with the world. So grab a comfy seat, a cup of your favorite brew, and get ready for a delightful conversation that’s not just about writing, but living authentically!

Takeaways:

1. Sarah Marshall's journey into writing was sparked by her transformative experiences at Burning Man, where she learned to embrace her identity.
2. Her novel 'Play A Dust in My Soul' reflects not only her personal journey but also explores themes of belonging and community.
3. The unique gift economy at Burning Man encourages genuine connection and generosity, impacting both personal and social dynamics.
4. Marshall emphasizes the importance of participation over observation, highlighting how every individual contributes to the collective experience at Burning Man.
5. Writing this book was a long process for Marshall, filled with personal introspection and the need to confront her own demons.
6. The creative process involves both unleashing one's imagination and the rigorous work of editing, where many ideas must be ruthlessly evaluated and refined.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. playadustinmysoul.com

Tracy Smith takes us on an adventurous journey of self-discovery in this episode, highlighting how she found her identity by getting lost—literally and metaphorically. At 49, she booked a one-way ticket to Iceland, realizing that the life she had built no longer resonated with her. This leap of faith sparked her memoir, *The Purpose of Getting Lost*, which emphasizes that you don’t truly find yourself by staying put; you find yourself by embracing the unknown. Tracy's travels across various countries became acts of courage, helping her to break free from people-pleasing patterns and understand that belonging is something we create for ourselves. Join us as we explore the humor, heart, and humanity of her journey, reminding us all that it's never too late to choose yourself and embrace your story.

Takeaways:

1. It's never too late to reinvent yourself and pursue your passions, as Tracy did at 49.
2. Getting lost intentionally can lead to self-discovery and help you find your identity.
3. The writing process often involves reliving past experiences, which can be therapeutic yet challenging.
4. Understanding your target audience is crucial for effective writing and connecting with readers.
5. Don't be afraid to trust your voice and writing style, even if it feels unconventional.
6. It's important to recognize that learning lessons can be a lifelong process, and it's okay to revisit them.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. tracysmithauthor.com
2. tracytravelseverywhere.com
3. substack.com/tracysmithphd
4. amazon.com/thepurposeofgettinglost