Five Things I’ve Learned from 299 Author Conversations

Over five years of hosting What Are You Reading? What Are You Writing?, I’ve had the privilege of speaking with nearly 300 authors. Those conversations have shaped not only my reading life, but my understanding of writing, community, and why stories matter.

As my weekly podcast turns five, I’ve been reflecting on what nearly 300 conversations with authors have taught me.

Here are five lessons that continue to stay with me:

1. Every author—fiction, nonfiction, or memoir—is a storyteller with a purpose.

   Genre changes the tools, not the intention. Everyone is trying to make meaning and connection.

   
   

2. Loving books means staying curious beyond your comfort zone.

   These conversations expanded my reading life far beyond what I once gravitated toward and made me a better writer because of it.

   
   

3. The writing community is far more generous than it’s given credit for.

   Authors share knowledge, contacts, encouragement, and time often with no expectation of return.

   
   

4. Writer friendships are professional lifelines.

   They understand the work, the doubt, the persistence, and the joy in a way few others can.

   
   

5. Readers are the reason the work matters.

   Every story ultimately lives or dies in the hands and hearts of readers and authors never forget that.

These conversations have reinforced my belief that writing is not a solitary act. It is sustained by curiosity, generosity, and readers willing to listen. I’m grateful for every voice that has joined the conversation and for the stories still ahead.