Mike Carlon

About Mike

I've always been drawn to stories — the ones we tell ourselves, and the ones we share with others.

Writing began as a creative outlet and became a lifeline, helping me make sense of loss, love, and life's many plot twists. Over time, that passion turned into nine published novels that weave humor, heart, and reflection.

Curiosity led me to launch Uncorking a Story, a podcast where I've interviewed more than 430 authors about their journeys. Each conversation reminds me that stories connect us, heal us, and push us to grow.

Professionally, I've spent my career in qualitative research, uncovering the human truths behind why people behave the way they do as buyers. Now, I bring those threads together — as an author, podcaster, and coach — to help others find and share their own stories.

Because at the end of the day, our stories are what outlast us — and they deserve to be told.

By the Numbers

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9 Published Novels

From the Farrah Graham mystery series to the deeply personal The Waiting Room — stories that weave humor, heart, and reflection.

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450+ Author Interviews

Every week on Uncorking a Story, I sit down with authors to explore the stories behind their stories. It's the best part of my week.

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20+ Years in Research

My career in qualitative research taught me how to listen, ask the right questions, and uncover the human truths that drive behavior.

Browse My Books →

Open Mike

Personal essays on family, faith, loss, and the stories that shape us.

Lessons From a Stranger

Some of you may be tempted to think that what you're about to read is a bit of heartwarming fiction. It's not.

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The Waiting Room

Alone again with his thoughts, Joseph felt as if the waiting room he was in was more than just a space.

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23 and Me

Dear Grace, Patrick, and Maggie, Today marks your 23rd birthday — which means I've now spent 24 years as a father.

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Beyond the Bridge

Murphy let out a big yawn and closed his eyes. He hadn't felt like himself these past few weeks.

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The Light We Give

I don't think there's anyone who has ever regretted waking up early to watch the sunrise.

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Bubbles Up

We just passed the three month anniversary of my brother's passing and, to quote the late Jerry Garcia, "I want to know, where does the time go?"

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Living Life at Slack Tide

The first sign that my emotions weren't regulating well today was when I started to cry while listening to a Jimmy Buffett song.

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Farewell, Roo Roo

I've known this day was coming for a very long time — it's quite rare that golden retrievers live to almost sixteen years of age.

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Living in the Moment

Met fans will recount the 1986 season the way some people might recount the day they got married.

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Let's Connect

Find me on social media or drop me a line. I'd love to hear from you.