Friday Conversation: Lincoln Michel on Writing, Genre-Bending Fiction & The Future of Storytelling

In this episode of Friday Conversation, we sit down with acclaimed author Lincoln Michel, known for Metallic Realms, The Body Scout, and his thought-provoking work across fiction and criticism for a deep dive into the craft, business, and future of storytelling.

Lincoln walks us through his writing journey, from discovering his voice through art and literature to navigating MFA programs, publishing, and teaching creative writing. We explore how genre fiction, constraints, and experimentation shape his work, and how he blends sci-fi, noir, and literary influences into something uniquely his own.

We also get into the realities of modern publishing, the shrinking “midlist,” and what it means to be an author in a world increasingly influenced by AI. Along the way, Lincoln shares insights on creativity, storytelling structure, and why constraints can actually unlock better writing.

Plus, we preview his upcoming novel Haunted Hills, a haunted house concept with a wild twist and talk about influences ranging from Kafka and Calvino to Stephen King and cyberpunk classics.

If you’re a writer, reader, or just someone who loves great conversations about books, this is one you don’t want to miss.