This week on The Writing Community Chat Show, we sat down with the incredible K.T. Carlisle, a murder mystery author, podcast host, and advocate for mental health and community-driven success. This conversation went far beyond just writing—it was an inspiring, raw, and eye-opening discussion about overcoming adversity, the power of storytelling, and, of course, the chilling mystery behind her latest book, I Know What I Saw.
📚 The Story Behind I Know What I Saw
K.T. gave us a fascinating deep dive into her latest novel, a thrilling, paranormal-infused mystery that blends Sasquatch mythology with a gripping whodunnit. She shared how the idea of a Bigfoot attack tied into a deeper exploration of fear, guilt, and secrecy, making the book much more than just a creature feature. We discussed how unique, unexpected themes can draw in readers, sparking curiosity and conversation.
🎙️ Podcasting & Community Engagement
As the co-host of Our Relationship with Writing ✍🏻 (@ORWWPodcast), K.T. highlighted the power of podcasting as a platform for connecting with writers and sharing insights into the creative process. She emphasized that building a strong community is one of the biggest keys to long-term success, and that podcasts, social media, and direct engagement with readers all play a huge role in making meaningful connections.
💡 Social Media & Scheduling for Success
K.T. also stressed the importance of a consistent online presence for writers. Social media isn't just about promotion—it’s about relationship-building. She walked us through how scheduling tools can help maintain engagement without feeling overwhelming, allowing writers to stay visible while still focusing on their craft.
💜 Overcoming Challenges & Mental Health in Creativity
One of the most powerful moments of the interview came when K.T. shared her personal journey through depression and domestic violence. She opened up about how those experiences shaped her as a writer and a person, reinforcing the idea that storytelling can be both a healing tool and a way to connect with others who have faced similar struggles.
She also reminded us that mental health is directly linked to creativity, and that it’s crucial to take care of ourselves in order to produce our best work. Being vulnerable, sharing struggles, and creating from a place of authenticity can lead to some of the most impactful stories.
✨ Fun Fact: A Birthday & Wedding on the Same Day!
On a lighter note, we learned that K.T. is getting married on January 15th—her birthday! Talk about an unforgettable date! 🎂💍
🔑 Key Takeaways from Our Conversation
📈 Social media consistency is key—scheduling tools can help maintain engagement while freeing up time for writing.
🌈 Personal stories resonate deeply—sharing experiences can foster community support and meaningful connections.
👻 Unique book themes stand out—paranormal twists and niche topics can intrigue readers and spark discussion.
🎤 Podcasts are a great tool for engagement—they help share experiences, build relationships, and establish a personal brand.
🧠 Mental health is crucial for creativity—open conversations about struggles can make a difference for both writers and readers.
🌟 Community matters—true success often comes from long-term engagement and authentic interactions.
This was a truly insightful and inspiring conversation, and we’re so grateful to K.T. for sharing her journey, wisdom, and creativity with us. Let us know in the comments—what was your biggest takeaway from the interview?
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#KTCarlisle #WritingCommunity #MurderMystery #AuthorInterview #IKnowWhatISaw #WritingPodcast #MentalHealthMatters #ORWWPodcast
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