Episode 351

Amy Gamerman, author of The Crazies

Published on: 3rd February, 2025

Today we have a fascinating guest who blends investigative reporting with deeply human storytelling. My guest is Amy Gamerman, a longtime contributor to The Wall Street Journal's Mansion section. Now, she has authored her first book, The Crazies: The Cattleman, the Wind Prospector, and a War Out West. Just released from Simon & Schuster.

Amy's Website

@amy_gamerman on Instagram

Here's a guide to Mark's interview:

Your new book, The Crazies, has been described as an evocative story set against the backdrop of Montana’s Big Timber and delves into the collision of tradition, innovation, and identity. Yellowstone meets Amity & Prosperity. It’s a compelling exploration of power, community, and environmental stakes in the American West. Before we dive into the details of your book, let’s start by exploring your creative journey and process."

1: "You’ve had a distinguished career in journalism, from drama critic to real estate writer for the Wall Street Journal. What inspired you to transition into writing a full-length narrative nonfiction book, and why was this story the one you chose to tell?"

2: "The book features a rich tapestry of characters: from a Crow activist to a Texas oil tycoon to an Olympic athlete-turned-attorney. How did you go about finding and building these voices into a cohesive and dynamic narrative?"

3: "Themes of tradition, innovation, and conflict permeate The Crazies. What did you discover about the delicate balance between preserving a way of life and embracing necessary change?"

4: "Your writing style is both journalistic and lyrical, with a deep sense of place. How do you approach the challenge of immersing readers in such a ruggedly beautiful yet complicated setting like Big Timber, Montana?"

5: "The book has been praised for its relevance in the broader conversation about climate change and community. What do you hope readers take away from this story, not only about Montana but also about the challenges we face as a global community?"

Thanks, as always, to our sponsor, White Cloud Coffee Roasters. Don’t forget to use the code ‘CREATIVITY’ at checkout for a 10% discount on your specialty coffee order at WhiteCloudCoffee.com

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About the Podcast

Your World of Creativity
Catalyst of Inspiration, Stories, and Tools to Get Your Work Out Into the World
On YOUR WORLD OF CREATIVITY, best-selling author and global brand innovator, Mark Stinson introduces you to some of the world’s leading creative talent from publishing, film, animation, music, restaurants, medical research, and more.

In every episode, you'll discover:
- How to tap into your most original thinking.
- Inspiration from the experts’ own experience.
- Specific tools, exercises, and formulas to organize your ideas.
- And most of all, you’ll learn how to make connections

 and create opportunities to publish, post, record, display, sell, market, and promote
 your creative work.

Listen for the latest insights for creative people who want to stop questioning themselves and overcome obstacles to launch their creative endeavors out into the world.

Connect with Mark at www.Mark-Stinson.com

About your host

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Mark Stinson

Mark Stinson has earned the reputation as a “brand innovator” -- an experienced marketer, persuasive writer, dynamic presenter, and skilled facilitator. His work includes brand strategy and creative workshops. He has contributed to the launches of more than 150 brands, with a focus on health, science, and technology companies. Mark has worked with clients ranging from global corporations to entrepreneurial start-ups. He is a recipient of the Brand Leadership Award from the Asia Brand Congress and was included in the PharmaVoice 100 Most Inspiring People in the Life-Sciences Industry.