In this episode of The Premise, Jeniffer and Chad Thompson sit down with bestselling author Stephen P. Kiernan to discuss his forthcoming novel, Pollock’s Last Lover—a layered story about art, deception, power, and the women surrounding legendary painter Jackson Pollock.

Stephen shares the surprising inspiration behind the novel, why he abandoned an early draft after 180 pages, and how the story ultimately became less about Pollock himself and more about the women navigating power, ambition, sexuality, and survival across two different eras.

The conversation explores:

• The real-life inspiration behind Ruth Kligman
• Writing complex female characters as a male author
• The emotional intensity of Pollock’s art and legacy
• Researching the New York art world and auction houses
• How symbolism (including watch advertisements set to 10:10) found its way into the novel
• Stephen’s writing process, revision philosophy, and life as a former journalist turned novelist

This episode is a deep dive into creativity, historical fiction, gender dynamics, and the mysteries of artistic genius.

The Premise Podcast — Episode Show Notes

Guest: Sasha Abramsky
Hosts: Jeniffer Thompson & Chad Thompson
Topic: Power, propaganda, and the human cost of political systems

Episode Overview

In this powerful and wide-ranging conversation, Jeniffer and Chad sit down with journalist and author Sasha Abramsky to unpack the political, emotional, and human realities shaping America today.

The discussion centers on Abramsky’s latest book, American Carnage, which explores how systemic government disruption impacts real lives—and what it reveals about power, democracy, and accountability.

From the illusion of normalcy in everyday life to the dismantling of institutions behind the scenes, this episode connects the big-picture political landscape with deeply personal stories.

Featured Book
American Carnage: How Trump, Musk, and Doge Butchered the U.S. Government

Episode Overview

What does it really mean to be present—and why does it feel so hard?

In this episode, Jeniffer and Chad Thompson sit down with author and mindfulness coach Marijke McCandless to explore her book Naked in the Now: Juicy Practices for Getting Present. Marijke shares how we can gently reconnect with ourselves, release pressure and expectations, and rediscover the small, meaningful moments that make life feel alive.

Through storytelling, humor, and practical insights, this conversation reframes mindfulness as something approachable, playful, and deeply human—not another task on your to-do list.

About the Guest

Marijke McCandless is a writer, mindfulness coach, and “playfulness instigator.” She leads the popular online writing practice Right Now Mind and is the author of multiple works, including her memoir More: Journey to Mystical Union Through the Sacred and the Profane. Her work helps people reconnect with themselves through presence, curiosity, and authentic expression.