Life of JEM

Life of JEM

”Life of JEM: writers on writing” is a podcast where Juanita E. Mantz (JEM), who is a writer herself, interviews many of her favorite writers. JEM loves interviewing and you’ll see why. Every show has a theme, but there’s always a focus on the craft of writing, as well as a love of the written word and JEM does a deep dive into many of her favorite books and authors. Check it out! You can listen in, but be sure to like JEM’s Facebook page for podcast extras! See https://www.facebook.com/LifeOfJem/ and her author page for live events https://juanitaemantz.com/

Episodes

May 7, 2025 53 mins

Listen in to this episode of JEM interviewing LA based Latinx Writer Nathan Castellanos. They talk about everything from punk rock & LA culture to blue collar writing and of course, about Nathan's novel, a scathing satire about gentrification. You will not be disappointed!! So check it out and get his book, "Salted Plastic: Tales of Gentrification".

 

Mark as Played

This episode is a treat! JEM interviews poet and author Rose Bowen, author of the recently released beautiful poetry collection "Ink Blot Girl". They talk about overcoming writer's block, & about valuing your voice and overcoming imposter syndrome. They also talk about inspiration and using art to highlight issues surrounding social justice and mental health. Rose also reads from her collection.  This conversation is a must lis...

Mark as Played

A special bonus mini episode. This is a true story about redemption told by JEM live without notes (she is still working through her one woman show and this may be part of it one day). It's inspired by the movie Sing Sing and it's about JEM's journey from USC Law to corporate lawyer to coming home.  JEM is really proud of this one so listen in! 

Mark as Played

JEM interviews Writer Barbara Marie Minney, author of multiple poetry collections, the most recent is a chapbook titled "A Woman in Progress".  Barbara reads many of her gorgeous and powerful poems and she and JEM have an inspiring and illuminating conversation about craft, poetry as memoir and the importance of Barbara's poetic voice as a transgender woman. This discussion is a must listen.

Mark as Played

JEM interviews Writer Ryane Nicole Granados, author of the beautiful award winning YA novella "The Aves" (Leapfrog Press, 2024). Ryane reads from her lovely book and they have a deep, soul sustaining conversation about community, craft, the importance of writing as activism and the joys of writing about your own neighborhood. Listen in. This discussion will move you and inspire you, lifting you up in these difficult times. 

Mark as Played

Listen in to my interview with spoken word artist, poet, writer, & publisher, David A. Romero. A true multi-hyphenate, David reads from his new collection, "Diamond Bars 2" (Moon Tide Press, 2024). We talk about craft, performance, how to make it financially as a writer and performer, and about writing about home. This episode will inspire and rejuvenate you and remind us why we write. 

Mark as Played

This episode is JEM and acclaimed writer, journalist and Chicana icon Yolanda Nava, author of the memoir, "Writing Through The Dark". JEM and Yolanda have an intimate and insightful conversation about Yolanda's memoir and talk about her descent into sudden blindness and how she navigated her path to a more joyful life. This is a must listen to episode. Find her book on Amazon now and get a copy! 

Mark as Played
November 7, 2024 2 mins

Check out another podcast on writing! I'll be on his show soon. Stephen Sacco has on a wide range of writers covering a host of literary topics! Check it out! It's epic!! 

Mark as Played
November 4, 2024 1 min

Listen in to what Life of JEM is all about!! 

Mark as Played

A special Halloween reading by three amazing horror writers, Christian Livermore, Kate Maruyama and Ryan Peña and a conversation with them moderated by JEM about what makes horror writing sing along with valuable tips for those burgeoning writers out there. Boo!! 

Mark as Played

JEM and Writer Désirée Zamorano discuss her latest novel "Dispossessed" and how important it is to tell these stories about dispossession and disenfranchisement, and how she crafted her beautiful soul sustaining book. It's a must listen in conversation! 

Mark as Played
May 27, 2024 63 mins

This episode is JEM and Writer James Ducat, author of the blackout poetry collection, "A Field of Nopes" (Bamboo Dart Press, 2024). JEM and James have a fascinating conversation about his book and about inspiration, their writing process, music, & how one balances it all. It's a very cool and engaging conversation. Tune in!

Mark as Played

This episode is JEM and Writer Carla Sameth, author of the luminous poetry collection, "Secondary Inspections" (Nymeria Publishing, 2024) and the beautiful memoir "One Day On The Gold Line" (reissued by Golden Foothills Press, 2022). JEM and Carla have a deep conversation about writing memoir & the transition to poetry. It's an insightful conversation filled with a discussion of craft. Tune in!

Mark as Played

This episode is JEM and Writer (and lawyer) Elsa Valmidiano, author of the beautiful hybrid book "The Beginning of Leaving" published by Querencia Press (see https://www.querenciapress.com/the-beginning-of-leaving-by-elsa-valmidiano). JEM and Elsa are great friends who have a lot in common and they have a deep conversation about how to write about "home" and family, and they talk about the challenges one faces in writing a hybrid b...

Mark as Played

This episode is JEM and Writer James Coats, author of the powerful  poetry book "Midnight & Mad Dreams". JEM and James talk about how he uses poetry to illustrate racism and oppression in an attempt to change the world. They also talk about the "business" of writing and how to be a good literary citizen. And you'll hear a beautiful reading by James. Listen in!

Mark as Played

This episode is JEM and Writer Xóchitl-Julisa Bermejo, author of the beautiful poetry book "Incantation: Love Poems for Battle Sites" (Mouthfeel Press). JEM and Xóchitl chat about how Xóchitl's writing merges poetry and social justice and how these gorgeously crafted poems bear witness and you'll hear a reading by Xóchitl. They also talk about the importance of community and Xóchitl's leadership as a co-creator and director of the...

Mark as Played

This episode is JEM and Writer Romaine Washington, editor of the anthology "These Black Bodies Are . . . " and poet and author of "Purgatory Has An Address" and "Sirens In Her Belly". JEM and Romaine chat about how Romaine merges writing and activism and how she brought together this beautiful, soul sustaining multi-genre collection of writers writing about love, social justice, community and more. A must hear important conversati...

Mark as Played

JEM and Writer Leticia Del Toro, author of the poetry chapbook "All We Are Told Not To Touch" (Finishing Line Press, 2023) are talking about writing, culture, language and community. A must listen to conversation on writing!

Mark as Played

On speaking truth to power with guest Vincent Cooper. JEM is talking writing with Writer Vincent Cooper, author of "Infidelis", a powerful poetry collection about his military service.

Mark as Played

JEM is talking writing with Writer Jo Scott-Coe, author of the acclaimed nonfiction book "Unheard Witness: the Life and Death of Kathy Leissner Whitman."

Mark as Played

Popular Podcasts

    In 1997, actress Kristin Davis’ life was forever changed when she took on the role of Charlotte York in Sex and the City. As we watched Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte navigate relationships in NYC, the show helped push once unacceptable conversation topics out of the shadows and altered the narrative around women and sex. We all saw ourselves in them as they searched for fulfillment in life, sex and friendships. Now, Kristin Davis wants to connect with you, the fans, and share untold stories and all the behind the scenes. Together, with Kristin and special guests, what will begin with Sex and the City will evolve into talks about themes that are still so relevant today. "Are you a Charlotte?" is much more than just rewatching this beloved show, it brings the past and the present together as we talk with heart, humor and of course some optimism.

    On Purpose with Jay Shetty

    I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!

    Dateline NBC

    Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

    The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show

    The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show. Clay Travis and Buck Sexton tackle the biggest stories in news, politics and current events with intelligence and humor. From the border crisis, to the madness of cancel culture and far-left missteps, Clay and Buck guide listeners through the latest headlines and hot topics with fun and entertaining conversations and opinions.

    The Breakfast Club

    The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy And Charlamagne Tha God!

Advertise With Us
Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.