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The Twist Podcast #315: 2026 Blastoff, Mark Loves Kristy Lee, and Emma Lyons Reviews ‘Trainwreck: The Real Project X’
The Twist Podcast blasts into 2026 with our usual mix of pop culture, media commentary, and personal reflection. Hosted by Mark McNease and Rick Rose, this entertainment and commentary podcast ignites the new year with sharp observations, familiar humor, and the kind of cultural conversation that keeps The Twist Podcast humming.
In this episode, Mark shares his admiration for singer Kristy Lee, and Rick welcomes Emma Lyons for a review of Trainwreck: The Real Project X, adding a timely Netflix documentary review to the stew. Fasten your headphones
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Blank Page to Bookshelf: From First Sentence to First Sale: Fiction Writing, Character Creation, and Self-Publishing Basics Now Available
Two years of workshops, one solid book
This has been a goal of mine for the last six months, and it’s out for 2026. You can get the ebook on Amazon ($8.95), various other online retaliers, or directly from me for a $2 discount ($6.96 – epub and PDF).
The paperback edition is available on Amazon, coming soon on IngramSpark, and will be available to bookstores and retailers everywhere.
About ‘Blank Page to Bookshelf’
Blank Page to Book Shelf: From First Sentence to First Sale: Fiction Writing, Character Creation, and Self-Publishing Basics brings together the core lessons from author and workshop instructor Mark McNease’s writing workshops, distilled into a single, accessible volume for aspiring and emerging writers.
Guiding readers from initial idea through character creation, plotting, revision, and self-publishing, the book emphasizes practical steps and realistic expectations. It demystifies both the creative process and the mechanics of self-publishing, helping writers move from concept to completed book.
Suitable for individual writers, writing groups, and creative workshops, this how-to guide blends craft instruction with actionable publishing guidance.
A clear, encouraging roadmap for turning a blank page into a finished book.
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A Twist Podcast Bonus Interview: Rick Rose In Conversation with Sonia Thomas on Life’s Next Chapters
A Twist Podcast Bonus Interview features host Rick Rose in conversation with Sonia Thomas as she reflects on retirement, her career with DHS and ICE, and her newest chapter as founder of SimplyHygge. Sonia shares insights on public service, life after government work, finding balance in retirement, and building a lifestyle brand rooted in comfort, mindfulness, and purpose. An honest, thoughtful discussion about career transitions, reinvention, and embracing a slower, more intentional way of living.
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Cold Nights, Dark Secrets: LGBTQ+ Mysteries & Thrillers Giveaway January 1 – 15
Start the year with new thrills in this BookFunnel giveaway featuring mystery maestros Marshall Thornton, Garrett Hutson, Victor Dain, Delilah Knight and more. This giveaway runs from January 1 – 15 only, so surf over and download these chillers packed with secrets, suspense, and bold voices you’ll want to hear again and again.
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New Twist Podcast Survey for 2026: Which Resolutions, If Any, Fit You Best?
Which Resolutions, If Any, Fit You for 2026? Multiple Answers Allowed
- No more news/politics than I need to stay informed
- Simplify everything: fewer commitments, less clutter, real and imagined
- Say yes to joy, fun, laughter and creativity
- Take better care of myself, mentally and physically
- Stay open to new experiences, projects, trips, habits and perspective
- I don’t make resolutions
- Name your own in the comments
- What other resolution(s) would you make for 2026?
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The Twist Podcast #314: So Long 2025, and a Rick Rose Interview with Rose Parade Host Mark Steines
As 2025 heads for the exit, The Twist Podcast co-hosts Rick Rose and Mark McNease say a fond and farewell to the year that was, touching on pop culture, media moments, and our own post-holiday fun.
Then Rick flips the camera for a special interview with Mark Steines, longtime television host and familiar face to millions as the on-air host of the Tournament of Roses Parade. Steines talks about what it’s like guiding viewers through one of America’s most iconic New Year’s Day traditions, his career in television, and why the Rose Parade continues to capture hearts year after year.
With loads of snap, crackle and pop culture, this episode of The Twist Podcast blends year-end reflections with a great celebrity interview—perfect listening as we close the book on 2025 and start first-drafting the year ahead.
🎙️ Topics include:
• Saying goodbye to 2025 (with commentary)
• Pop culture and media reflections
• Behind-the-scenes stories from the Rose Parade
• A candid conversation with Mark Steines👉 Subscribe, listen, and twist into the new year with us.
