This Is Horror Podcast
This Is Horror Podcast is hosted by Michael David Wilson and Bob Pastorella and is aimed at readers, writers, and creators. Each week it features interviews with authors, artists, publishers, editors, and other creative professionals. Across more than 600 episodes, guests have included Chuck Palahniuk, Dean Koontz, Joe Hill, Joe R. Lansdale, Charlaine Harris, and many others. The show focuses on horror fiction and the wider creative process.
Episodes
TIH 678: Ryan Lowell on Freight, Dialogue-Heavy Fiction, and Writing Routine
In this podcast, Ryan Lowell talks about Freight, dialogue-heavy fiction, his writing routine, and much more.
[3:20] Conversation start/the elevator pitch for Freight.
[8:40] Planning and writing Freight.
[10:45] Pros and cons of writing dialogue-heavy fiction.
[18:40] Movie references and influences.
[30:00] The influence and inspiration from philosophy and psychology.
[36:50] Literary agent.
[40
TIH 677: Ryan Lowell on Trucking, Early Writing Experiences, and George V. Higgins
In this podcast, Ryan Lowell talks about trucking, early writing experiences, George V. Higgins, and much more.
[3:05] Conversation start/early life lessons growing up.
[6:40] When Ryan started writing.
[9:50] Early experiences with films and books.
[12:20] Parents’ reaction to sporting and creative aspirations.
[17:15] The impact of 1984 and The Power of Now.
[24:20] George V. Higgins.
[26:25] Bu
TIH 676: Michael David Wilson on The Girl in the Video, Gaijin J-Horror, and Horror Set in Japan
In this podcast, Michael David Wilson talks about The Girl in the Video, Gaijin J-Horror, horror set in Japan, and much more. With special guests Dan Howarth and David Moody.
[2:35] Conversation start/Michael’s first experience with The Girl in the Video story.
[7:15] Setting stories in Japan.
[10:45] One Story Per Week Writing Challenge and Writing More Seriously.
[18:10] Alternating between writ
TIH 675: Raphael Montes on The Secret Dinner, The Seagull Soup Riddle, and Writing About Taboo Topics
In this podcast, Raphael Montes talks about The Secret Dinner, the Seagull Soup Riddle, writing about taboo topics , and much more.
[4:10] Conversation start/early life lessons.
[8:55] The films and books Raphael was consuming from an early age.
[13:30] Writing stories that don’t fit into an easy genre box.
[17:00] Planning The Secret Dinner.
[21:35] Dark comedy.
[26:30] The seagull soup riddle.
TIH 674: Richard Jerram on Lessons Learnt Writing The Makoto Murders, Writing Routine, and What Defines Success
In this podcast, Richard Jerram talks about lessons learnt writing The Makoto Murders, his writing routine, what defines success, and much more.
[2:50] The Makoto Murders and its journey with Titan Books.
[11:15] Richard’s writing routine.
[16:20] Writing to music or silence.
[23:20] What defines success?
[33:50] Making protagonist, Ken Kato, half British/half Japanese.
[45:00] Ken’s obsession wit
TIH 673: Richard Jerram on The Makoto Murders, Living in Tokyo, Japan, and Winning the Crime Writers’ Association’s Debut Dagger Award
In this podcast, Richard Jerram talks about The Makoto Murders, living in Tokyo, Japan, winning the Crime Writers’ Association’s Debut Dagger Award, and much more.
[3:15] Early life lessons growing up.
[6:00] The best and worst things about taking a creative writing MA.
[10:15] Retirement from work as an economist and decision to pursue writing fiction.
[11:45] Arriving in Tokyo, Japan in 1987.
[1
TIH 672: E. L. Chen on Slasher Summer, Slasher Movies, and Best Writing Advice
In this podcast, E. L. Chen talks about Slasher Summer, slasher movies, the best writing advice she’s ever heard, and much more.
[4:25] Slasher Summer elevator pitch.
[6:25] First experiences with slasher movies.
[11:30] Watching A Nightmare on Elm Street.
[16:35] Lessons taken from other slasher stories within horror fiction.
[18:55] Planning process.
[24:30] The cabin backstory.
[26:20] Editori
TIH 671: E. L. Chen on Sweetside Motel, Writing Routine, and Inverting Gothic Novel Expectations
In this podcast, E. L. Chen talks about Sweetside Motel, writing routine, inverting gothic novel expectations, and much more.
[3:15] Conversation start/early life lessons.
[10:00] Identity, stereotypes, and rebellion.
[13:40] First experiences with story/writing in YA, Fantasy, and Horror.
[18:30] Authenticity and writing for yourself first.
[21:05] Writing routine and time management.
[23:30] Dra
TIH 670: David Moody on Kemberton, Weoley Castle, and Writing About the Human Condition
In this podcast, David Moody talks about serialising fiction, embracing boredom, the long road to the Hater movie, and much more.
[3:00] Kemberton elevator pitch and real-life inspiration.
[11:20] Bullying, domestic violence, and the emotional impact of Kemberton.
[23:25] A huge turning point in the book.
[31:55] Beta-reader feedback.
[38:20] Writing about the human condition.
[42:10] Weoley Castl
TIH 669: David Moody on Serialising Fiction, Embracing Boredom, and the Long Road to the Hater Movie
In this podcast, David Moody talks about serialising fiction, embracing boredom, the long road to the Hater movie, and much more.
[3:00] Conversation start.
[4:50] Biggest changes in last year.
[7:20] Hater film adaptation.
[20:05] Dirty Day.
[24:00] Money, happiness, writing, and having enough.
[39:35] Embracing boredom and going offline.
[47:00] Cinema etiquette.
[1:00:05] Serialising Kemberton.
TIH 668: Eliza Jabore on True Crime Research, Bigfoot, and Subverting Slasher Tropes
In this podcast, Eliza Jabore talks about true crime research, Bigfoot, subverting slasher tropes, and much more.
[2:50] Elevator pitch for Backstabbers.
[4:25] True crime research and Bigfoot.
[13:20] Subverting slasher tropes.
[18:15] Misdirection and The Descent vibes.
[21:10] Jeremiah’s name origin.
[24:00] Real-world cabin and trails influence.
[27:30] Travel, horror, and risk taking.
[31:30]
TIH 667: Eliza Jabore on Backstabbers, Writing Through Motherhood, and Getting Stranded in the Jungle
In this podcast, Eliza Jabore talks about Backstabbers, writing through motherhood, getting stranded in the jungle, and much more.
[4:10] Conversation start/early life lessons growing up.
[7:15] Stories written when young.
[10:05] First stories read and movies watched.
[13:15] Globetrotting from seventeen years old.
[16:10] Meeting husband.
[20:05] Returning to Iowa.
[28:30] Writing post-travel.
[
TIH 666: Dan Howarth on Drone, Lionhearts, and Northern Republic
In this podcast, Dan Howarth talks about Drone, Lionhearts, Northern Republic, and much more.
[4:35] Conversation start/biggest changes for Dan in the last year.
[19:00] Screenwriting.
[20:00] Lionhearts.
[26:00] Journey to publication.
[45:30] Writing a comedy.
[50:45] Editorial process.
[1:01:15] David Peace influence on book covers.
[1:05:10] Drone.
[1:09:00] Creating dread from a sound.
[1:15:
TIH 665: Jed Shepherd on Dashcam, Found Footage Horror, and The Impact of Host
Jed Shepherd talks about Dashcam, found footage horror, the impact of Host, and much more.
[3:05] Homages and references in films.
[10:50] Host, its legacy, and the impact on horror and found footage.
[15:40] Blumhouse deal.
[17:40] Dashcam elevator pitch.
[21:50] Dashcam and Host in a similar world.
[23:45] Co-writing process for Dashcam.
[26:25] Working with Annie Hardy.
[32:05] Odeon banning Da
TIH 664: Jed Shepherd on Host, Filmmaking, and The Supernatural
Jed Shepherd talks about Host, filmmaking, the supernatural, and much more.
[2:50] Early life lessons growing up in London.
[9:30] Beliefs pertaining to the supernatural or lack thereof.
[12:35] First horror films and stories experienced.
[15:30] Parallels between Host and Dashcam and the Evil Dead films.
[17:55] Wanting to be a writer from a young age.
[26:05] Music in Jed’s life and career.
[31:
TIH 663: Addison Heimann on Touch Me, Sugar-Free Lemonade Powder, and Telling Stories
In this podcast, Addison Heimann talks about Touch Me, sugar-free lemonade powder, telling stories, and much more. About Addison Heimann Addison Heimann is known for Hypochondriac (2022), Touch Me (2025) and Jeff Drives You (2019). Timestamps Thanks for Listening! Help out the show: Support This Is Horror on Patreon Listen to This Is Horror Podcast … Continue reading
TIH 662: Addison Heimann on Hypochondriac, Recreating the Famous Ghost Scene, and OCD Exposure Therapy
In this podcast, Addison Heimann talks about Hypochondriac, recreating the famous Ghost scene, OCD exposure therapy, and much more. About Addison Heimann Addison Heimann is known for Hypochondriac (2022), Touch Me (2025) and Jeff Drives You (2019). Timestamps Thanks for Listening! Help out the show: Support This Is Horror on Patreon Listen to This Is … Continue reading
TIH 661: Kylie Lee Baker on Writing Japanese Gothic, Chapter Outlines, and Best Writing Advice
In this podcast, Kylie Lee Baker talks about writing Japanese Gothic, chapter outlines, her best writing advice, and much more. About Kylie Lee Baker Kylie Lee Baker is the Sunday Times bestselling author of dark fantasy and horror novels such as The Keeper of Night, The Scarlet Alchemist, Bat Eater and Other Names for Cora … Continue reading
TIH 660: Kylie Lee Baker on Japanese Gothic, Bat Eater and Other Names for Cora Zeng, and Writing Routine
In this podcast, Kylie Lee Baker talks about Japanese Gothic, Bat Eater and Other Names for Cora Zeng, her writing routine, and much more. About Kylie Lee Baker Kylie Lee Baker is the Sunday Times bestselling author of dark fantasy and horror novels such as The Keeper of Night, The Scarlet Alchemist, Bat Eater and Other … Continue reading
TIH 659: Eric LaRocca on Writing Rituals for Wretch, Writing Two Books Per Year, and Horror Theatre
In this podcast, Eric LaRocca talks about his writing Rituals for Wretch, writing two books per year, horror theatre, and much more. About Eric LaRocca Eric LaRocca is a 2x Bram Stoker Award finalist and Splatterpunk Award winner. Named by Esquire as one of the “Writers Shaping Horror’s Next Golden Age” and praised by Locus … Continue reading
TIH 658: Eric LaRocca on Wretch, The Unbecoming of Porcelain Khaw, and Grief Horror
In this podcast, Eric LaRocca talks about Wretch, The Unbecoming of Porcelain Khaw, grief horror, and much more. About Eric LaRocca Eric LaRocca is a 2x Bram Stoker Award finalist and Splatterpunk Award winner. Named by Esquire as one of the “Writers Shaping Horror’s Next Golden Age” and praised by Locus as “one of the … Continue reading
TIH 657: Justin Benson, Aaron Moorhead, and Addison Heimann on Touch Me
In this podcast, Justin Benson, Aaron Moorhead, and Addison Heimann talk about Touch Me, and much more. About Touch Me Two codependent best friends become addicted to the heroin-like touch of an alien narcissist who may or may not be trying to take over the world. About Justin Benson Justin Benson was born on 9 … Continue reading
TIH 656: Ronald Malfi on Small Town Horror, Subverting Expectations, and Creating Dread
In this podcast, Ronald Malfi talks about Small Town Horror, subverting expectations, creating dread, and much more. About Ronald Malfi Ronald Malfi is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of horror novels and thrillers. He is the recipient of two Independent Publisher Book Awards, the Beverly Hills Book Award, the Vincent Preis … Continue reading
TIH 655: CJ Leede on American Rapture, Maeve Fly, and Writing Routine
In this podcast, CJ Leede talks about American Rapture, Maeve Fly, her writing routine, and much more. About CJ Leede CJ Leede is a horror writer, hiker, and Trekkie. She is the author of Maeve Fly and American Rapture. Her debut novel Maeve Fly won the Golden Poppy Octavia E. Butler Award and Splatterpunk Award, … Continue reading
TIH 654: Stephen Graham Jones on Night of the Mannequins, Writing Slashers, and Best Prank Gone Wrong
In this podcast, Stephen Graham Jones talks about Night of the Mannequins, writing slashers, his best prank gone wrong, and much more. About Stephen Graham Jones Stephen Graham Jones is a Blackfoot Native American author of experimental fiction, horror fiction, crime fiction, and science fiction. His books include Don’t Fear the Reaper, My Heart is a Chainsaw, The … Continue reading
TIH 653: Mick Garris on Masters of Horror, Sleepwalkers, and Directing Stephen King Adaptations
In this podcast, Mick Garris talks about Masters of Horror, Sleepwalkers, directing Stephen King adaptations, and much more. About Mick Garris Mick Garris is an American filmmaker, screenwriter and novelist born in Santa Monica, California. He is best known for his work in the horror film genre, as well as making Stephen King adaptations. … Continue reading
TIH 652: Kat Day on PseudoPod, Short Stories, and Editing a Horror Fiction Podcast
In this podcast, Kat Day talks about PseudoPod, short stories, editing a horror fiction podcast, and much more. About Kat Day Kat Day is a PhD chemist who was once a teacher and is now a professional editor and writer. She first entered PseudoPod Towers in 2019, became Assistant Editor in 2021 and Co-Editor in … Continue reading
TIH 651: Ross Jeffery on Only The Stains Remain, Grief Horror, and Exchanging Novels with Josh Malerman
In this podcast, Ross Jeffery talks about Only The Stains Remain, grief horror, exchanging novels with Josh Malerman, and much more. About Ross Jeffery Ross Jeffery is the Bram Stoker Award-nominated and 3x Splatterpunk Award-nominated author of Metamorphosis, The Devil’s Pocketbook, I Died Too, But They Haven’t Buried Me Yet, Tome, Juniper, Scorched, Only The … Continue reading
TIH 650: Ross Jeffery on Juniper Trilogy, Setting Stories in the US vs. the UK, Breaking Writing Rules
In this podcast, Ross Jeffery talks about the Juniper Trilogy, setting stories in America vs. the UK, breaking writing rules, and much more. About Ross Jeffery Ross Jeffery is the Bram Stoker Award-nominated and 3x Splatterpunk Award-nominated author of Metamorphosis, The Devil’s Pocketbook, I Died Too, But They Haven’t Buried Me Yet, Tome, Juniper, Scorched, … Continue reading
TIH 649: Clay McLeod Chapman on Acquired Taste, the Beat Generation, and The Restoration at Grayson Manor
In this podcast, Clay McLeod Chapman talks about Acquired Taste, the Beat Generation, The Restoration at Grayson Manor, and much more. About Clay McLeod Chapman Clay McLeod Chapman is the author of the novels What Kind of Mother, Ghost Eaters, Whisper Down the Lane, The Remaking, and Miss Corpus. Timestamps Thanks for Listening! Help out … Continue reading
TIH 648: Clay McLeod Chapman on Getting Drunk on Ideas, Writing with Confidence, and First Draft Optimism
In this podcast, Clay McLeod Chapman talks about getting drunk on ideas, writing and performing with confidence, getting through the first draft, and much more. About Clay McLeod Chapman Clay McLeod Chapman is the author of the novels What Kind of Mother, Ghost Eaters, Whisper Down the Lane, The Remaking, and Miss Corpus. Timestamps Thanks … Continue reading
TIH 647: Dean Koontz on The Friend of the Family, Carnival Lore, and Five Years to Become a Writer
In this podcast, Dean Koontz talks about his forthcoming book, The Friend of the Family, carnival lore, being given five years to become a writer, and much more. About Dean Koontz Acknowledged as “America’s most popular suspense novelist” (Rolling Stone) and as one of today’s most celebrated and successful writers, Dean Ray Koontz has earned … Continue reading
TIH 646: Bob Pastorella on The Small Hours, Vampire Fiction, and Writing Lessons
In this podcast, Bob Pastorella talks about his latest book, The Small Hours, vampire fiction, writing lessons, and much more. About Bob Pastorella Bob Pastorella is the co-host of the This Is Horror podcast. He is also the author of They’re Watching (with Michael David Wilson), with numerous tales in such publications as Lost Films, … Continue reading
TIH 645: Eric LaRocca on Burnt Sparrow, We Are Always Tender with Our Dead, and Writing Transgressive Fiction
In this podcast, Eric LaRocca talks about Burnt Sparrow, We Are Always Tender with Our Dead, writing messed up transgressive fiction, and much more. About Eric LaRocca Eric LaRocca is a 2x Bram Stoker Award finalist and Splatterpunk Award winner. Named by Esquire as one of the “Writers Shaping Horror’s Next Golden Age” and praised … Continue reading
TIH 644: Eric LaRocca on Burnt Sparrow Influences, Short Stories, and Repeated Choruses
In this podcast, Eric LaRocca talks about his influences for the Burnt Sparrow trilogy, short stories, repeated choruses, and much more. About Eric LaRocca Eric LaRocca is a 2x Bram Stoker Award finalist and Splatterpunk Award winner. Named by Esquire as one of the “Writers Shaping Horror’s Next Golden Age” and praised by Locus as … Continue reading
TIH 643: Joe Hill on King Sorrow, Writing Process, and Growing up in Maine
In this podcast, Joe Hill talks about King Sorrow, his writing process, growing up in Maine, and much more. About Joe Hill Joe Hill is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Fireman, Heart-Shaped Box, and Strange Weather. Much of his work has been adapted for film and television. His second novel, Horns, … Continue reading
TIH 642: Philip Fracassi on The Autumn Springs Retirement Home Massacre, Boys in the Valley, and How to Make Readers Empathise with Characters
In this podcast, Philip Fracassi talks about The Autumn Springs Retirement Home Massacre, Boys in the Valley, how to make readers empathise with characters, and much more. About Philip Fracassi Philip Fracassi is the USA Today bestselling, Stoker and British Fantasy-nominated author of the novels Don’t Let Them Get You Down, A Child Alone with … Continue reading
TIH 641: Philip Fracassi on Journey from Indy Publishing to USA Today Bestselling Author, Non-negotiable Marketing Practices, and Writing Routine
In this podcast, Philip Fracassi talks about his journey from indy publishing to becoming a USA Today bestselling author, non-negotiable marketing practices, his writing routine, and much more. About Philip Fracassi Philip Fracassi is the USA Today bestselling, Stoker and British Fantasy-nominated author of the novels Don’t Let Them Get You Down, A Child Alone … Continue reading
TIH 640: Gabino Iglesias on House of Bone and Rain, Writing Realistic Violence, and Building Your Author Brand
In this podcast, Gabino Iglesias talks about House of Bone and Rain, writing realistic violence, building your author brand, and much more. About Gabino Iglesias Gabino Iglesias is a writer, professor, book reviewer, editor, and translator living in Austin, TX. He teaches creative writing at SNHU’s online MFA program and runs a series of low-cost … Continue reading
TIH 639: Gabino Iglesias on The Devil Takes You Home, Mulholland Books, and Writing for the New York Times
In this podcast, Gabino Iglesias talks about The Devil Takes You Home, Mulholland Books, writing for the New York Times, and much more. About Gabino Iglesias Gabino Iglesias is a writer, professor, book reviewer, editor, and translator living in Austin, TX. He teaches creative writing at SNHU’s online MFA program and runs a series of … Continue reading
TIH 638: Delilah S. Dawson on House of Idyll, Writing Comics, and How to Get Traditionally Published
In this podcast, Delilah S. Dawson talks about House of Idyll, writing comics, how to get traditionally published, and much more.
[3:25] Delilah’s typical yearly writing output.
[7:15] Writing screenplays.
[16:50] The genesis of House of Idyll.
[28:00] Having ADHD.
[49:30] Getting start in comic writing.
[54:00] Advice to those who want to get traditionally published.
[59:00] What frightens Delil
TIH 637: Delilah S. Dawson on The Violence, Becoming a Writer, and Early Life Lessons
In this podcast, Delilah S. Dawson talks about The Violence, becoming a writer, early life lessons, and much more.
[3:40] Conversation start/early life lessons growing up.
[6:30] Secretly taking books.
[11:30] The Violence.
[25:30] Journey to becoming a writer.
[43:45] Beliefs pertaining to the supernatural.
[50:45] Planning process when writing a new story.
Full podcast show notes are availabl
TIH 636: Jacy Morris on We Like It Cherry, Misconceptions about Indigenous People, and Writing Violence in Fiction
In this podcast, Jacy Morris talks about We Like It Cherry, misconceptions about indigenous people, writing violence in fiction, and much more.
[3:30] Working with Tenebrous Press and We Like It Cherry.
[18:10] Wide misconceptions about indigenous people.
[21:30] Challenges writing a gay protagonist.
[26:20] How fully formed was the initial idea and dream that led to We Like It Cherry?
[29:00] Cr
TIH 635: Jacy Morris on Early Life Lessons, Current Writing Routine, and Horror Writing
In this podcast, Jacy Morris talks about early life lessons, his current writing routine, horror writing, and much more.
[3:25] Conversation start/early life lessons growing up.
[8:45] Dawn of the Dead and We Like It Cherry.
[11:35] Teaching at a middle school.
[14:30] Impetus for moving from a pseudonym to Jacy’s own name.
[32:50] Marketing.
[36:15] Current writing routine.
[51:30] Post-intervie
TIH 634: Josh Malerman on Fully Embracing Your Writing, Lessons Learnt Watching Evil Dead, and Jizzly Bear
In this podcast, Josh Malerman talks about fully embracing your writing, lessons learnt watching Evil Dead, Jizzly Bear, and much more.
[3:00] Conversation start/deciding what to publish after Watching Evil Dead.
[12:15] We have to fully embrace who we are as writers.
[17:30] Wavy Gravy!
[23:20] Ryan Lewis and other people who have changed our lives.
[33:15] MDW’s memories of writing during a tra
TIH 633: Josh Malerman on Watching Evil Dead, Unearthing the Radiant Artist Within, and Sequencing Book Order Like an Album
In this podcast, Josh Malerman talks about his brand new book, Watching Evil Dead, unearthing the radiant artist within, sequencing book order like an album, and much more.
[5:30] Conversation start and Watching the Evil Dead.
[14:00] The book cover and subtitle.
[23:00] Writing books over 165,000 words.
[38:05] Sequencing a career of writing and book order like an album.
[44:10] The transcendent
TIH 632: Ryan C. Bradley on Ghoulish Books, Books Bound in Human Flesh, and Story Writing Process
In this podcast, Ryan C. Bradley talks about Ghoulish Books, books bound in human flesh, his story writing process, and much more.
[2:50] Bounding the book in Say Uncle in human flesh.
[13:15] What genre is Say Uncle?
[18:55] Working with Ghoulish Books.
[23:30] Comics.
[27:45] Writing about parenthood.
[38:10] Running and lifting.
[44:30] What is Ryan working on now.
[53:30] Planning or pantsing
TIH 631: Ryan C. Bradley on Say Uncle, Early Life Lessons, Setting Stories in the Noughties
In this podcast, Ryan C. Bradley talks about Say Uncle, early life lessons, setting stories in the noughties, and much more.
[3:20] Conversation start and early life lessons.
[13:55] Stories read growing up.
[16:30] Films watched from a young age.
[18:50] First stories written.
[23:40] The moment when Ryan returned to playing the guitar.
[26:00] First short story publication.
[32:05] Pitching Say
TIH 630: C. J. Dotson on Writing routine, Strange Supernatural Experiences, and Writing about Trauma in Fiction
In this podcast, C. J. Dotson talks about her writing routine, strange supernatural experiences, writing about trauma in fiction, and much more.
[3:40] Writing routine and typical working week.
[14:55] The what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger fallacy.
[19:30] Self-care for protecting own mental health when writing about difficult and traumatic topics.
[25:50] Traci, via Patreon, asks about ma
TIH 629: C. J. Dotson on The Cut, Lake Erie Folklore, and Hotel Horror
In this podcast, C. J. Dotson talks about The Cut, Lake Erie folklore, hotel horror, and much more.
[3:20] Conversation start/life lessons growing up.
[7:25] Early horror influences.
[19:50] The Cut cover.
[26:25] First steps to publication with The Cut.
[35:20] Strange and supernatural experiences.
[40:00] Hotel horror and The Cut.
[44:10] The genesis of The Cut.
[46:50] Lake Erie folklore and s
TIH 628: Daddy’s Boy by Michael David Wilson, Chapter One, Narrated by Josh Curran
In this podcast, we present chapter one of Daddy’s Boy by Michael David Wilson, narrated by Josh Curran.
Full podcast show notes are available here: https://www.thisishorror.co.uk/tih-628-daddys-boy-by-michael-david-wilson-chapter-one-narrated-by-josh-curran
Support This Is Horror Podcast on Patreon here: https://patreon.com/thisishorror
TIH 627: Dean Koontz on Going Home in the Dark, Breaking The Fourth Wall, and Theodore Sturgeon
In this podcast, Dean Koontz talks about his new book, Going Home in the Dark, breaking the fourth wall, Theodore Sturgeon, and much more.
[4:00] Conversation start.
[7:20] Going Home in the Dark.
[17:50] Breaking the fourth wall.
[25:35] Working on a memoir of career.
[33:20] Advice for younger writers who love writing and loathe marketing.
[50:30] What does Dean Koontz do when he’s writing and
TIH 626: Ross Jeffery on How to Write and Plan a Novel, Being Made Homeless, and Marketing
In this podcast, Ross Jeffery talks about how to write and plan a novel, being made homeless, marketing, and much more.
[3:20] How Ross plans novels using his notebook method.
[16:25] What happens once the initial drafts are complete?
[22:35] Traci, via Patreon, asks about considerations when deciding whether to put a book out traditionally or independently.
[30:10] Marketing books.
[35:15] Being
TIH 625: Ross Jeffery on Early Life Lessons, Becoming a Writer, and Writing a New Book Every Three Months
In this podcast, Ross Jeffery talks about early life lessons, becoming a writer, writing a new book every three months, and much more.
[3:30] Conversation start and early life lessons.
[9:15] Getting back into reading.
[22:05] The steps to becoming a writer.
[45:10] Summarising Ross’s writing method and approach.
[1:02:55] Not writing until the entire book is planned out.
Full podcast show notes
TIH 624: Paul Goblirsch on Thunderstorm Books and Limited Hardcover Books
In this podcast, Paul Goblirsch talks about Thunderstorm Books, limited hardcover books, and much more.
[3:50] Conversation start/life lessons learnt growing up.
[7:55] Getting into collectible books and limited editions.
[18:10] Early rules when starting Thunderstorm Books.
[23:05] How Thunderstorm Books scaled to 40 titles per year.
[42:00] Marketing and social media impact on business.
[51:30]
TIH 623: Jasper Bark on Writing a Comic in Novel’s Clothing, Bark Bites Horror, and Writing a Three-Book Novel
In this podcast, Jasper Bark talks about writing a comic in novel’s clothing Bark Bites Horror, writing a three-book novel, and much more.
[3:55] When Jasper realised Draw You In was going to be three books.
[9:10] A comic in a novel’s clothing?
[26:05] Problems with contracts.
[46:45] The reason for writing a book.
[50:20] Marketing.
[59:25] Walt and Louise Simonson.
[1:18:50] Bark Bites Horror
TIH 622: Jasper Bark on Draw You In, R. L. Carver, and Conspiracy Theories and Comic Books
In this podcast, Jasper Bark talks about Draw You In, R. L. Carver, comic books and conspiracy theories, and much more.
[3:35] Conversation start.
[6:35] Draw You In three book series.
[12:30] Draw You In story genesis.
[35:35] Reaction to R. L. Carver stunt.
[38:50] Conspiracy theories and comics.
Full podcast show notes are available here: https://www.thisishorror.co.uk/tih-622-jasper-bark-on-
TIH 621: Josh Curran on Narrating Daddy’s Boy, Lessons Recording an Audiobook, and the Miscreations Podcast
In this podcast, Josh Curran talks about narrating Daddy’s Boy, lessons learnt recording an audiobook, the Miscreations Podcast, and much more.
[3:20] Conversation start and early life lessons growing up.
[5:10] Daniel Willcocks story.
[11:10] The future of Miscreations Podcast.
[18:05] Daniel Johnson.
[28:00] Narrating Daddy’s Boy and rapping.
[45:40] Swear count in Daddy’s Boy.
[52:00] Lessons
TIH 620: Jon Bassoff on The Memory Ward, The Drive-Thru Crematorium, and Becoming a Writer
In this podcast, Jon Bassoff talks about The Memory Ward, The Drive-Thru Crematorium, and becoming a writer.
[3:35] Conversation start and Jon’s first memory.
[4:50] Early life lessons.
[7:10] When did Jon know he wanted to become a writer?
[12:35] Publishing Corrosion.
[14:55] The film version of The Disassembled Man.
[24:40] Drive-Thru Crematorium.
[26:25] The Memory Ward.
[36:45] How much can
TIH 619: Jason Pargin on Writing Pop Culture References in Film and Fiction
In this podcast, Jason Pargin talks about writing pop culture references in film and fiction, and much more.
[3:00] Conversation start and Britney Spears scandal.
[6:25] Biggest changes in the last eight months.
[23:00] Pop culture has stagnated.
[34:30] Impact of TikTok being banned in the USA.
[59:20] Trying different ad platforms.
[1:10:35] Why it’s difficult to write pop culture references in
TIH 618: Brian Asman on Writing Fiction Fearlessly
In this podcast, Brian Asman talks about writing fiction fearlessly, and much more.
[3:20] Conversation start.
[7:30] Defining what Brian Asman writes.
[15:00] Does Brian write fearlessly?
[23:05] Worries about not doing concepts justice.
[1:00:40] Books and movies where the writer was fearless.
[1:06:20] Has recent success meant Brian is writing more or less fearlessly?
[1:21:15] Connect with Br
TIH 617: Jasper Bark on Dark Comedy, Horror Comedy, and The Origins of Gallows Humour
In this podcast, Jasper Bark talks about dark comedy, horror comedy, the origins of gallows humour, and much more.
[4:00] Conversation start. Distinguishing dark comedy and horror comedy.
[9:30] Mother for Dinner by Shalom Auslander.
[14:00] Taboos in society, historical context and cultural significance of dark comedy.
[22:30] Did Jasper start writing comedy or horror?
[43:00] Was writing Daddy
TIH 616: David Moody on Hard Left Turns in Film and Fiction
In this podcast, David Moody talks about hard left turns in film and fiction, and much more.
[3:35] Conversation start and Kidderminster chat.
[11:30] Balancing realism and creative license when writing about real life locations.
[23:40] Hard left turns in fiction and film.
[45:07] Threads (1984).
[49:05] Writing changes post-heart attack.
[54:48] David Lynch.
[1:02:18] Kemberton: writing a novel
TIH 615: Danger Slater on Absurd Films and Books, Getting Weird with Your Writing, and Difficulties Marketing Bizarre Books
In this podcast, Danger Slater talks about absurd films and books, getting weird with your writing, difficulties marketing bizarre books, and much more.
[3:38] Conversation start.
[15:42] What genre is Danger Slater writing in?
[18:46] Writing aims and writing approach.
[25:47] Difficulties or struggles marketing Daddy’s Boy.
[51:50] Favourite absurdist authors.
[1:03:46] Just get weird with your
TIH 614: Michael David Wilson on Daddy’s Boy (with Jasper Bark, Dan Howarth, and Bob Pastorella)
In this podcast, Michael David Wilson talks about his brand new dark comedy novel, Daddy’s Boy, with hosts Jasper Bark, Dan Howarth, and Bob Pastorella.
[2:48] Conversation start.
[10:11] The genesis of Daddy’s Boy and interest in comedy.
[24:37] Plotting vs. pantsing.
[49:17] The voice of the novel.
[56:24] Stand up comedy and comedy watching.
[1:08:03] Ideal cast for a Daddy’s Boy movie.
[1:16:
TIH 613: Sofia Ajram on Coup de Grâce, Titan Books, and Fear of Man-Made Machinery Under Water
In this podcast, Sofia Ajram talks about Coup de Grâce, Titan Books, their fear of man-made machinery under water, and much more.
[3:12] Coup de Grâce.
[7:19] Working with Titan.
[11:44] Negative reviews.
[32:11] Kurosawa references.
[44:38] How writing Coup de Grâce affected Sofia.
[49:27] Forthcoming audiobook.
[54:50] Dominatrix work.
[1:00:22] Misconceptions about the industry and dominatrix
TIH 612: Sofia Ajram on Editing Bury Your Gays, Balancing Writing and Metalsmithing, and Tragic Queer Horror
In this podcast, Sofia Ajram talks about editing Bury Your Gays, balancing writing and metalsmithing, tragic queer horror, and much more.
[3:25] Early life lessons growing up.
[5:30] Metalsmithing.
[10:17] Balancing writing and metalsmithing.
[22:24] Working with Titan Books.
[27:55] First experiences reading and writing.
[31:46] Working as a band photographer.
[50:27] First story written and mom
TIH 611: Lena Valencia on Mystery Lights, David Lynch Influence, and Writing Routine
In this podcast, Lena Valencia talks about Mystery Lights, David Lynch influence, writing routine, and much more.
[4:30] Early life lessons growing up in LA.
[7:00] Lena’s initial interest in creativity.
[11:29] Writing routine and writing retreats.
[18:37] Balancing publicity vs. writing.
[21:44] Querying process for Mystery Lights.
[25:39] Mystery Lights thematic concerns.
[30:34] What are the
TIH 610: Clay McLeod Chapman on Kill Your Darling, Wake Up and Open Your Eyes, and Writing vs. Marketing
In this podcast, Clay McLeod Chapman talks about Kill Your Darling, Wake Up and Open Your Eyes, writing vs. marketing, and much more.
[3:44] Wake Up and Open Your Eyes.
[27:48] Anxiety whilst writing.
[49:18] Writing vs. Marketing.
[55:58] Working with Alan at Shortwave and Doug at Bad Hand Books.
[1:02:54] Strategies for first time writers.
[1:05:16] When you would and wouldn’t get an agent.
F
TIH 609: Clay McLeod Chapman on Imperfection in Art, Anxiety and Wake Up and Open Your Eyes, and The Highlights and Lowlights of 2024
In this podcast, Clay McLeod Chapman talks about imperfection in art, anxiety and Wake Up and Open Your Eyes, the highlights and lowlights of the past year, and much more.
[3:30] Conversation start/AI and its impact on creativity.
[15:30] Imperfection in art.
[49:47] Looking back at the past year, the highlights and struggles.
[54:49] Anxiety surrounding the release of Wake Up and Open Your Eyes.
TIH 608: Max Booth III on I Believe in Mister Bones, Forthcoming Ghoulish Books Releases, and Fruit Pies
In this podcast, Max Booth III talks about I Believe in Mister Bones, forthcoming Ghoulish Books, fruit pies, and much more.
[3:45] Promoting work.
[24:33] Tapping into the magic that made us want to write in the first place.
[27:45] Publishing Danger Slater.
[38:00] Forthcoming books from Ghoulish by Bob Pastorella, Nadia Bulkin, and more.
[42:28] Considerations for reprinting.
[44:55] Say Uncle
TIH 607: Max Booth III on I Believe in Mister Bones and Ghoulish
In this podcast, Max Booth III talks about their latest book, I Believe in Mister Bones, Ghoulish, and much more.
[3:30] Conversation start.
[21:50] Balancing writing, publishing, running a bookstore, and the Ghoulish Book Festival.
[30:45] Bookstore events.
[33:30] The origin story of I Believe in Mister Bones.
[1:01:55] Max’s TikTok joke gone wrong.
Full podcast show notes are available here:
TIH 606: Nat Cassidy on Early Life Lessons, Creative Journey, and Writing Routine
In this podcast, Nat Cassidy talks about his early life lessons, creative journey, and beginnings as a writer.
[3:10] Early life lessons growing up.
[7:27] The first time Nat Cassidy set a classroom on fire.
[21:40] Writing for the Stephen King The Stand anthology, edited by Brian Keene and Christopher Golden.
[37:10] First creative career steps.
[54:21] Writing routine and daily habits.
Full po
TIH 605: Wesley Southard on One for the Road, Closing Costs, and Trevor Henderson Art
In this podcast, Wesley Southard talks about One for the Road, Closing Costs, Trevor Henderson art, and much more.
[4:45] Social media and personal life balance.
[16:47] Trevor Henderson artwork on The Better to Eat You With.
[31:55] One For The Road.
[46:11] Closing Costs.
[52:23] Threesome.
[1:10:49] Future projects for Wesley.
[1:13:45] Connect with Wesley.
Full podcast show notes are availab
TIH 604: Wesley Southard on The Better to Eat You With, Threesome, and Meeting Brian Keene
In this podcast, Wesley Southard talks about his brand new book, The Better to Eat You With, Threesome, meeting Brian Keene, and much more.
[3:00] Conversation start and early life lessons.
[8:35] Music and heavy metal.
[16:35] Introduction to horror.
[32:05] Threesome.
[39:55] Meeting Brian Keene.
Full podcast show notes are available here: https://www.thisishorror.co.uk/tih-604-wesley-southard
TIH 603: Eric LaRocca on At Dark, I Become Loathsome, Experiences with Grief, and Forbidden Kinks
In this podcast, Eric LaRocca dives deeper into his incredible new book, At Dark, I Become Loathsome, and talks about experiences with grief, forbidden kinks, and much more.
[3:36] Grief.
[7:55] Forbidden fetishes.
[23:13] Short stories nested within At Dark, I Become Loathsome.
[29:42] At Dark, I Become Loathsome is a love letter to the outcasts.
[56:29] Burnt Sparrow, Wretch, and future project
TIH 602: Eric LaRocca on At Dark, I Become Loathsome, Norman Reedus, and Queer Representation in Horror
In this podcast, Eric LaRocca talks about his brand new book, At Dark, I Become Loathsome, Norman Reedus, queer representation in horror, and much more.
[3:20] Eric LaRocca’s highlights of 2024.
[8:15] Working with multiple publishers and scheduling releases.
[25:55] At Dark, I Become Loathsome journey to publication.
[33:50] Norman Reedus.
[40:14] Marketing for At Dark, I Become Loathsome.
[42:3
TIH 601: Dan Howarth on Last Night of Freedom, Territory, and Survival Horror
In this podcast, Dan Howarth talks about his debut novel, Last Night of Freedom, Territory, survival horror, and much more.
[4:22] Biggest changes for Dan in the last year.
[9:07] Writing locations.
[28:28] The genesis of Last Night of Freedom.
[1:03:40] Writing from multiple perspectives.
[1:14:25] Territory and thematic parallels with Last Night of Freedom.
[1:28:31] Book release routine.
Full
TIH 600: Chuck Palahniuk Dissects His Infamous Short Story Guts
In this podcast, Chuck Palahniuk dissects his infamous short story 'Guts'.
[2:38] Conversation with Chuck begins.
[9:38] The twentieth anniversary of Guts.
[15:09] Did Chuck expect people to faint.
[20:18] The invisible carrot.
[32:30] Submerging the I.
[1:07:09] Writing effectively in the second person.
[1:08:36] Final thoughts.
Full podcast show notes are available here: https://www.thisishorr
TIH 599: L. P. Hernandez on In the Valley of the Headless Men, Expanding The Last of Our Kind, and Story Planning
In this podcast, L. P. Hernandez talks about In the Valley of the Headless Men, expanding The Last of Our Kind, story planning, and much more.
[3:20] From the Red Dirt.
[9:00] Planning stories.
[24:08] Offerings to an Old God.
[29:05] Expanding The Last of Our Kind.
[39:05] In The Valley of the Headless Men.
[53:48] Advice to eighteen-year-old self.
[54:35] Future writing plans.
[1:01:28] Connect
