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#107 with Chip Jacobs: Writing, Pasadena's Past & The Edges of Life
Manage episode 523153749 series 2514037
Episode #107 – Chip Jacobs: Writing, Pasadena's Past & The Edges of Life
In this episode, I'm joined by Chip Jacobs — award-winning author, journalist, and storyteller with a deep love for California history and an eye for the unusual. We dive into the craft of writing and editing, the fascinating (and sometimes bizarre) history of Pasadena, and even wander into the territory of near-death experiences and what they reveal about being alive.
This conversation ranges from the practical to the mysterious — from how to shape a story on the page to the moments that shape a life
In this episode we talk about:
· Chip's writing process — how journalism influenced his narrative style
· The importance of editing — why revision is where the truth of a story comes out
· Pasadena history — strange characters, environmental battles, scandals, and the overlooked corners of California's past
· Near-death experiences — why they fascinate us, and how they connect to meaning, memory, and storytelling
· Balancing fact and narrative — how Chip blends research, personality, and voice in his nonfiction and fiction
· Why history still matters — especially when it's weird, messy, or uncomfortable
About Chip Jacobs
Chip is known for both nonfiction and fiction, including historical works, environmental reporting, and character-driven stories rooted in the identity of Southern California. He brings humor, sharp research, and a storyteller's rhythm to everything he writes.
Why you'll want to listen
If you're a writer, history lover, California native, or simply someone interested in how personal experiences shape creative work, this episode is packed with insight, humor, and unexpected turns — just like Chip's books.
🎙️ Were You Still Talking? is hosted by Joel Albrecht – actor, content creator, and curious conversationalist. New episodes drop regularly wherever you get your podcasts.
Want to be a guest on Were You Still Talking?? Send Joel Albrecht a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17479536339826768613f136d
Music for all episodes by Jon Griffin.
My YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCugOLERePPuD4nwtZO-Zwnw?view_as=subscriber
My Instagram: @joelyshmoley
100 episodes
Manage episode 523153749 series 2514037
Episode #107 – Chip Jacobs: Writing, Pasadena's Past & The Edges of Life
In this episode, I'm joined by Chip Jacobs — award-winning author, journalist, and storyteller with a deep love for California history and an eye for the unusual. We dive into the craft of writing and editing, the fascinating (and sometimes bizarre) history of Pasadena, and even wander into the territory of near-death experiences and what they reveal about being alive.
This conversation ranges from the practical to the mysterious — from how to shape a story on the page to the moments that shape a life
In this episode we talk about:
· Chip's writing process — how journalism influenced his narrative style
· The importance of editing — why revision is where the truth of a story comes out
· Pasadena history — strange characters, environmental battles, scandals, and the overlooked corners of California's past
· Near-death experiences — why they fascinate us, and how they connect to meaning, memory, and storytelling
· Balancing fact and narrative — how Chip blends research, personality, and voice in his nonfiction and fiction
· Why history still matters — especially when it's weird, messy, or uncomfortable
About Chip Jacobs
Chip is known for both nonfiction and fiction, including historical works, environmental reporting, and character-driven stories rooted in the identity of Southern California. He brings humor, sharp research, and a storyteller's rhythm to everything he writes.
Why you'll want to listen
If you're a writer, history lover, California native, or simply someone interested in how personal experiences shape creative work, this episode is packed with insight, humor, and unexpected turns — just like Chip's books.
🎙️ Were You Still Talking? is hosted by Joel Albrecht – actor, content creator, and curious conversationalist. New episodes drop regularly wherever you get your podcasts.
Want to be a guest on Were You Still Talking?? Send Joel Albrecht a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17479536339826768613f136d
Music for all episodes by Jon Griffin.
My YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCugOLERePPuD4nwtZO-Zwnw?view_as=subscriber
My Instagram: @joelyshmoley
100 episodes
All episodes
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