Takes One to Write One

Takes One to Write One

Hello, and welcome to Takes One to Write One. I'm Katherine Arkady and I’m a writer. However, my characters are everything but. While research gives me information about their jobs and lifestyles, it doesn’t give me the first-hand experience needed to write a well-rounded character. So I created this podcast where I invite people on to talk about their jobs, their hobbies, or their beliefs, because it Takes One to Write One. Subscribe to Takes One to Write One for bi-weekly insights so you can write authentic, well-rounded characters through interviews and real-life stories.

Episodes

April 21, 2025 48 mins

In the final part of this candid and emotionally resonant series, Katherine sits down with our anonymous guest for a wide-ranging conversation on reclaiming life, identity, and freedom after leaving a cult. Through reflection, analysis, and moments of both levity and gravity, they explore what comes after escape: the long process of unlearning, healing, and re-entering the world.

This episode dives into pop culture, spirituality, ho...

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In Part Two of Takes One to Write One: Cults, Katherine sits down again with her anonymous guest as they dig deeper into life inside a high-control religious group. This episode explores the long-term impact of spiritual abuse, how loyalty was weaponized, and what happens when someone begins to question everything they’ve ever been taught.

Together, they unpack relationships, identity, and the emotional unraveling that often follows...

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March 24, 2025 49 mins

In this first episode of Takes One to Write One: Cults, Katherine sits down with a guest who bravely shares their experience growing up in a high-control group and their journey to breaking free. Through their anonymous account, we explore what it means to be raised in a cult, the tactics used to maintain control, and the emotional toll of leaving. This conversation is raw, honest, and at times heavy—so please listen with care. Tri...

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February 17, 2025 51 mins

In the second part of this two-part series, Katherine continues her conversation with Todd, a lifer in the motorcycle club world. With 18 years of experience, Todd shares his thoughts on what it means to be a part of a club, the emotional ups and downs that come with the territory, and how the landscape of motorcycle clubs has evolved over time. From the challenges of managing relationships within the club to navigating the percept...

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February 3, 2025 64 mins

In part one of this two-part series, Katherine sits down with Todd, a seasoned member of a long-standing motorcycle club. With years of experience under his belt, Todd shares his unique perspective on the world of motorcycle clubs and their impact on society. From the myths surrounding club life to the realities of maintaining brotherhood, Todd goes into the history, structure, and personal significance of being a club member. He a...

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January 20, 2025 78 mins

In Part Two of this two-part series, Alex, the experienced coffee shop manager, continues sharing insights into the coffee world. From dealing with customers and navigating the unique culture of a coffee shop to tips for aspiring baristas, Alex dives deep into the nitty-gritty of barista life. He touches on everything from sensory environments and managing chaos, to building relationships with regulars and dealin...

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January 6, 2025 70 mins

In Part One of this warm and frothy two-part series, Katherine cozies up with Alex, the operating manager of her favorite local coffee shop. Alex brings several years of experience in the coffee world to the table—along with a few unforgettable stories. From deciphering complicated espresso orders to watching romances (and breakups) unfold over cappuccinos, this episode captures the full flavor of life behind the bar. They ta...

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December 16, 2024 50 mins

In the final Part Three, Katherine finishes her conversation with Marco and Nate, both regional pilots in the United States with a combined experience of 17 years. This is the final part of a three part series. Let’s hang!


TIMESTAMPS

00:00:49 What movies, media, pop culture gets it wrong?

00:06:50 So with call-ins, call-outs, when you're talking about anything over the radio? What certain points need to be hit in order ...

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December 2, 2024 65 mins

In Part Two of this 3-part series, Katherine stays grounded (figuratively) while flying deep (literally) with Marco and Nate, two seasoned regional pilots with 17 years of experience between them. This time, the conversation gets personal—and sometimes hilariously honest—as they dive into the emotions, stereotypes, and unexpected curveballs that come with a life spent in the sky. From the thrill of flying next to...

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October 15, 2024 66 mins

In Part One of this three-part series, Katherine chats with Marco and Nate—two regional pilots with nearly two decades of collective flight time. From what’s in their fridge to what it’s like inside a flight simulator, this episode covers the nitty-gritty of daily pilot life with warmth, curiosity, and a dash of dry skin talk.

If you’re someone who loves digging into real-world routines, quirky human details, and niche subcultures (...

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September 24, 2024 80 mins

In Part Two of this conversation, Katherine picks things back up with Dave, a guitarist who’s been in more bands than most of us have friend groups, and together they unpack everything from the personalities you run into in the music world, to what it feels like to carry gear, lead rehearsals, and maybe even walk away from something you once loved.

As a writer, this episode hit differently. It’s less about music and more about rhyth...

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September 24, 2024 60 mins

In this episode, Katherine chats with Dave, a guitarist who’s been playing since the age of fourteen. With experience in eight different bands, Dave gives Katherine (and listeners) a deep dive into the real-life dynamics of playing in a band. Ranging from managing multiple projects to the highs and lows of live performances, this episode uncovers what it’s really like to be part of a band. If you're a musician yourself or...

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