{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"Gay Ann Kiser, Athor","description":"In this episode, Dave sits down with author and retired teacher Gay Ann Kiser to explore her journey from growing up in the foster care system to becoming a prolific writer in Fairview, Texas. Gay shares candid insights about her childhood struggles, the therapeutic role that writing has played in her life, and how authenticity infuses her memoirs, sweet romances, and cozy mysteries. Throughout the conversation, she opens up about using her own life experiences\u2014including family challenges and foster care\u2014to create flawed, relatable characters and to help readers and aspiring writers feel seen and understood. The episode also dives into the unique inspirations behind Gay\u2019s work, such as her lifelong love of choir singing, her time teaching in local schools, and her rural Fairview lifestyle, complete with miniature donkeys and the recent loss of a beloved pet goat. Gay Ann offers practical advice for those who want to share their own stories, emphasizing the importance of honest storytelling, reading widely, and seeking meaningful feedback.&amp;nbsp; Visit Gay's Website at:  www.gaykiser.wixsite.com\/author Key topics discussed:   Gay Ann Kaiser\u2019s early life in foster care and its impact on her writing   The role of authenticity and real-life experiences in her books   Writing as a form of therapy and self-exploration   The inspiration behind her cozy mysteries, especially her love for choir music   The process of writing and releasing both memoirs and fictional works   Living in Fairview, Texas, and its influence on her settings and characters   The importance of helping others tell their stories, particularly those who have faced hardships   Practical tips for aspiring writers on getting started and staying true to their voice   Gay\u2019s involvement with her local church choir and the disclaimer about her fictional characters   Community spirit and support in Fairview, highlighted throughout the episode   ","author_name":"Getting Neighborly -- Town of Fairview","author_url":"http:\/\/www.gettingneighborly.com","html":"<iframe title=\"Libsyn Player\" style=\"border: none\" src=\"\/\/html5-player.libsyn.com\/embed\/episode\/id\/38218875\/height\/90\/theme\/custom\/thumbnail\/yes\/direction\/forward\/render-playlist\/no\/custom-color\/88AA3C\/\" height=\"90\" width=\"600\" scrolling=\"no\"  allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen><\/iframe>","thumbnail_url":"https:\/\/assets.libsyn.com\/secure\/content\/193073125"}