Susan Straight on the Power of Story

<p>Ryan speaks to professor and author Susan Straight about their first encounter at the University of California, Riverside, finding joy in the private process of writing, how specific books can change your life, and more. </p><p>Susan Straight is a professor of creative writing and part of the MFA faculty at the University of California, Riverside, as well as an award-winning author. Her newest book, <a href='https://geni.us/NgoDu'><em>In the Country of Women</em></a><em>,</em> is a memoir based on the people of California and stories from the women in her family.</p><p>This episode is brought to you by <a href='https://www.ladderlife.com/stoic'>Ladder</a>, a painless way to get the life insurance coverage you need for those you care about most. <a href='https://www.ladderlife.com/stoic'>Ladder</a> makes the process of getting life insurance quick and easy. To apply, you only need a phone or laptop and a few minutes of time. <a href='https://www.ladderlife.com/stoic'>Ladder</a>’s algorithms work quickly and you’ll find out almost immediately if you’re approved. Go to <a href='http://ladderlife.com/stoic'>ladderlife.com/stoic</a> to see if you’re instantly approved today.</p><p>This episode is also brought to you by <a href='http://manlybands.com/stoic'>Manly Bands</a>, the best damn wedding rings period. Freedom for your hand to look like you want it to look. Whether you’re looking for men’s wedding rings or engagement rings, <a href='http://manlybands.com/stoic'>Manly Bands</a> has you covered. <a href='http://manlybands.com/stoic'>Manly Bands</a> has an insane selection of materials: gold, wood, antler, steel, dinosaur bones, meteorite, even wood from whiskey barrels. To order your <a href='http://manlybands.com/stoic'>Manly Band</a> and get 20% off, plus a free silicone ring, go to <a href='http://manlybands.com/stoic'>manlybands.com/stoic</a> and enter promo code STOIC.</p><p>This episode is brought to you by <a href='http://blinkist.com/stoic'>Blinkist</a>, the app that gets you fifteen-minute summaries of