Episodios

  • Exploring the Challenges of a Green Transition with Tom Ortiz

    Exploring the Challenges of a Green Transition with Tom Ortiz
    Aug 7 2025
    Welcome to a new season of the award-winning Hill Country Authors Podcast, sponsored by Stoney Creek Publishing. In this podcast, Hill Country resident Tom Fox visits with authors who live in and write in and about the Texas Hill Country. In this episode, Tom visits with Tom Ortiz, who discusses his diverse professional background, ranging from thermodynamic experiments to oil and gas industry work, and his critical views on the green energy transition. Ortiz elaborates on his new book, ‘Why We Struggle to Go Green,’ aiming to bridge the gap between casual readers and academic audiences with accessible yet detailed insights into energy systems like hydrogen and carbon capture. He addresses the harsh realities of shifting to renewable sources, emphasizing the need for reduced energy consumption and greater resilience to climate change. Ortiz also reflects on the evolving role of academia and its challenges in fostering unbiased technological advancement. The discussion concludes with Ortiz’s future aspirations and a brief about his collaboration with Stony Creek Publishing. Key highlights: The Genesis of the Book Harsh Realities of the Green Transition Managing the Costs of Clean Energy The Role of Academia Sustainable Solutions for Population Growth Resources: Tom Ortiz on LinkedIn Tom Ortiz Substack Tom Ortiz on Stoney Creek Publishing Why We Struggle to Go Green on Texas A&M University Press Stoney Creek Publishing Website Podcast Cover Art Nancy Huffman Fine Art Tom Fox Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn
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    35 m
  • The Great Ice Cream War: A Conversation with Author John Brock

    The Great Ice Cream War: A Conversation with Author John Brock
    Jul 31 2025
    Welcome to a new season of the award-winning Hill Country Authors Podcast. In this podcast, Hill Country resident Tom Fox visits with authors who live in and writes up the Texas Hill Country. In this episode, Tom Fox visits John Brock, the author of ‘The Great Ice Cream War of Summer 2016 and marketing manager for Texas Tech University Press. Brock discusses his day job at the Press, his new novella, and the inspiration behind it. He also details his writing process, which took eight years for this particular novella, highlighting the importance of persistence and creativity. They also explore the nuances of novella writing, self-publishing, and marketing strategies for new authors. The conversation explores the theme of change as a universal narrative tool and its relevance in both the context of his story and broader societal shifts. Brock also shares insights into the offerings and upcoming publications from Texas Tech University Press. Key Highlights: John Brock’s Day Job and University Press The Great Ice Cream War of Summer 2016 Writing Process and Challenges Understanding the Novella Format Themes of Change and Modern Relevance Tenacity in Writing Self-Publishing and Marketing Insights Texas Tech University Press and Upcoming Releases Resources: The Great Ice Cream War of Summer 2016 on Amazon Visit Texas Tech University Press Website Follow John Brock on: Facebook Substack Instagram As a valued listener, order John Brock’s book and receive a $2.00 discount. Visit IngramSpark here. Podcast Cover Art Nancy Huffman Fine Art Tom Fox Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn
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    24 m
  • Exploring Mental Health and Community-Based Practices with Claudette Fette

    Exploring Mental Health and Community-Based Practices with Claudette Fette
    Jul 24 2025
    Welcome to a new season of the award-winning Hill Country Authors Podcast, sponsored by Stoney Creek Publishing. In this podcast, Hill Country resident Tom Fox visits with authors who live in and write in and about the Texas Hill Country. In this episode, Tom visits Claudette Fette, an academic from Texas Woman's University, about her professional background and her work in mental health and community-based practices. Fette shares the journey that led her to occupational therapy and advocacy, influenced by her son's struggles with mental illness and addiction. They discuss the development and principles of authentic wraparound services, the importance of multidisciplinary staffing, and the effectiveness of early intervention and preventative mental health support. Fette also touches on the failures of the criminal justice system in dealing with mental health and substance abuse, advocating for restorative justice practices. Additionally, she provides insights into her writing and publishing process for her book, 'No Saints Here,' and the ongoing resources she provides through her blog and website. Key Highlights · Claudette Fette's Professional and Academic Journey · The Story Behind 'No Saints Here' · Community-Based Alternatives to Institutionalization · The Importance of Multidisciplinary Staffing · Early Intervention and Preventative Mental Health Support · Educational Interventions and Support Systems · Criminal Justice System and Mental Health · Authentic Wraparound and Recovery · Writing and Publishing Journey Resources Claudette Fette on Stoney Creek Publishing No Saints Here on Texas A&M University Press Stoney Creek Publishing Website Podcast Cover Art Nancy Huffman Fine Art Tom Fox Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn
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    27 m
  • Exploring the Melody of Words with Author Rob Espenscheid, Jr.

    Exploring the Melody of Words with Author Rob Espenscheid, Jr.
    Jul 17 2025
    Welcome to a new season of the award-winning Hill Country Authors Podcast, sponsored by Stoney Creek Publishing. In this podcast, Hill Country resident Tom Fox visits with authors who live in and write up the Texas Hill Country. In this episode, Tom visits Rob Espenscheid, Jr., about his newly released book, ‘The Rise of Mad March.’ Rob shares his extensive background as a piano technician and how his love for music influenced his writing. He details the inspiration and writing process behind his fifth novel, a tribute to small-town rock bands of the early 70s. Rob also discusses his journey as an author, beginning in his sixties, and shares his experiences with self-publishing, as well as his collaboration with Stoney Creek Publishing to bring his latest story to life. The discussion offers insights into the importance of adhering to proper timelines in historical fiction and Rob’s passion for the writing process. Key highlights: Rob’s Professional Background The Rise of the Mad March: Inspiration and Plot Themes and Messages in the Book Writing Process and Challenges Previous Works and Writing Journey Experience with Stony Creek Publishing Where to Find Rob’s Books Resources: Rob Espenscheid, Jr.on Stoney Creek Publishing The Rise of the Mad March on Texas A&M University Press Stoney Creek Publishing Website Rob Espenscheid, Jr. Website Rob Espenscheid, Jr on Facebook Rob Espenscheid, Jr on Instagram Podcast Cover Art Nancy Huffman Fine Art Tom Fox Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn
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    20 m
  • Exploring Texas History and Writing with Jack Woodville London

    Exploring Texas History and Writing with Jack Woodville London
    Jul 10 2025
    Welcome to a new season of the award-winning Hill Country Authors Podcast, sponsored by Stoney Creek Publishing. In this podcast, Hill Country resident Tom Fox visits with authors who live in and write about the Texas Hill Country. In this episode, Tom visits author Jack Woodville London, discussing his intriguing career and novels focused on Texas history. London, a seasoned courtroom lawyer with a background in aviation accidents, delves into his journey from practicing law to writing creatively. They explore his experiences at Oxford University and his fascination with historical research. London shares insights into his books, particularly the ‘French Letters Series’ and ‘Dangerous Latitudes,’ highlighting lesser-known events in Texas history. The discussion also touches on public education, historical figures, and the Mexico-Texas conflicts, providing a rich tapestry of historical and literary insights. Key highlights: Jack’s Professional Background Oxford Experience and Writing Journey Books and Writing Process Texas History and Dangerous Latitudes Lamar and Texas Politics Research and Publishing Resources: Dangerous Latitudes on Stone Creek Publishing Dangerous Latitudes on Texas A&M University Press Stoney Creek Publishing Website Jack Woodville London Website Podcast Cover Art Nancy Huffman Fine Art Tom Fox Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn
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    31 m
  • The Legacy and Literature of Phil Oakley: A Life of Stories from Texas

    The Legacy and Literature of Phil Oakley: A Life of Stories from Texas
    Jun 26 2025
    Welcome to a new season of the award-winning Hill Country Authors Podcast, sponsored by Stoney Creek Publishing. In this podcast, Hill Country resident Tom Fox visits with authors who live in and write about the Texas Hill Country. In this episode, Tom visits author Phil Oakley, discussing his intriguing professional background and his novels, which are based on his family’s history in Texas. Oakley shares stories from his childhood, professional encounters, and inspirations drawn from his grandparents’ lives. They delve into his book series, starting with ‘Little Hatchet’ and ‘Runners,’ exploring the ways he incorporates Texas history and personal heritage into his work. Oakley also reflects on the impacts of weather, railroads, and prohibition on his family and the state. Towards the end, he discusses his transition from biography to fiction and the potential for his books to be adapted into a streaming series. The session concludes with insights on working with Stony Creek Publishing and resources for readers to find his books. Key highlights: Phil Oakley’s Professional Background Remembering Ronnie Dugger Phil Oakley’s Books and Inspirations Writing Craft and Historical Context Prohibition and Family Stories Current Projects and Future Directions Resources: Little Hatchet | Book 1 of The Oakley Series Runners | Book 2 of The Oakley Series Little Hatchet and Runners on Texas A&M University Press Stoney Creek Publishing Website Little Hatchet Book Trailer on YouTube Podcast Cover Art Nancy Huffman Fine Art Tom Fox Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn
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    25 m
  • Exploring Writing, Literature, and Texas Coastal Culture with Skip Rhudy

    Exploring Writing, Literature, and Texas Coastal Culture with Skip Rhudy
    Jun 19 2025
    Welcome to a new season of the award-winning Hill Country Authors Podcast, sponsored by Stoney Creek Publishing. In this podcast, Hill Country resident Tom Fox visits with authors who live in and write up the Texas Hill Country. In this episode, Tom visits Skip Rhudy, a writer with deep ties to the Texas Gulf Coast. Rhudy shares his experiences growing up in Port Aransas and delves into the contrasts of living in a tourist spot. They discuss Rhudy's two novels, 'Under the Gulf Coast Sun' and 'One Punk Summer,' touching on themes of setting as character, the punk music scene in Austin, and preserving Texas culture through fiction. Rhudy also discusses his writing process, inspirations from Ernest Hemingway, and future projects, including a novel interwoven with Greek mythology and a nonfiction account of building a kit plane. Key highlights: Life in Port Aransas Port Aransas Culture and Community Holiday Vibes and Seasonal Contrasts Setting as a Character in Literature Writing Process and Inspirations Texas History and Cultural Preservation Comparing Two Novels Punk Music and Austin's Scene Publishing Journey and Editorial Insights Resources: • Skip Rhudy on Stoney Creek Publishing • 'Under the Gulf Coast Sun on Texas A&M University Press Stoney Creek Publishing Website Podcast Cover Art • Nancy Huffman Fine Art
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    28 m
  • Unveiling Camptown: Charles Swenson’s Journey Through Forgotten Texas History

    Unveiling Camptown: Charles Swenson’s Journey Through Forgotten Texas History
    Jun 12 2025
    Welcome to a new season of the award-winning Hill Country Authors Podcast, sponsored by Stoney Creek Publishing. In this podcast, Hill Country resident Tom Fox visits with authors who live in and writes up the Texas Hill Country. In this episode, Tom Fox visits Charles Swenson, a passionate historian and author of Voices of Camptown.’ Swenson delves into the rich history of Camptown, a freedmen’s colony established in Brenham, Texas, following the Civil War. He explains his involvement in uncovering this lost community’s legacy, spurred by the discovery of the overgrown Camptown Cemetery. Swenson shares insights into the lives of the African American families who once resided there, their struggles during Reconstruction, and their achievements despite the adversities of Jim Crow. He also emphasizes the crucial role of education and the significant contributions of military veterans to these communities. Swenson’s research methods and collaboration with the Brenham Heritage Museum, along with local individuals like Eddie Harrison, highlight a neglected chapter of Texas history that he is dedicated to preserving. The episode closes with information on how listeners can learn more about Swenson’s work and his upcoming book. Key highlights: Discovering Camptown: A Historical Overview Uncovering Camptown Cemetery Research and Stories from the Past The Importance of Historical Designation Educational and Community Impact Writing Process and Publication Journey Resources: Charles Swenson’s on Stoney Creek Publishing Voices of Camptown on Texas A&M University Press Stoney Creek Publishing Website Podcast Cover Art Nancy Huffman Fine Art
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    29 m