What drives a story forward? Is it the characters, the setting, or the questions we ask about what they want—and what’s standing in their way?

In this episode of QuestionAble Strategy, Antonia sits down with award-winning novelist Christina Li to explore the art of storytelling through curiosity and conflict. Christina is the author of “Clues to the Universe,” “Ruby Lost and Found,” and “True Love and Other Impossible Odds.” She’s also making her adult literary debut this May with her upcoming novel, The Manor of Dreams.

From childhood snacks to intergenerational family dynamics, Christina shares how her own life inspires her writing and how she crafts stories that resonate deeply with readers of all ages. Together, Antonia and Christina reflect on their Stanford days, the challenges of drafting and editing, and the parallels between writing novels and building startups.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

1. How to ask meaningful questions that shape character development.
2. The balance between research and imagination in historical fiction.
3. Why miscommunication can be both frustrating and narratively rich.
4. The emotional core of storytelling: ambition, longing, and connection.
5. How small cultural details can create big moments of resonance for readers.

Join us for an inspiring conversation about curiosity, creativity, and the questions that bring stories—and characters—to life.

How does a mentalist read your thoughts without you even realizing it? What role do questions play in creating an unforgettable performance? What behavioral cues are dead giveaways for mind-reading? In this episode, Antonia invites Jason Suran, a renowned mentalist from New York City, to explore these intriguing topics. Join us as we delve into the fascinating intersection of psychology and magic, revealing the secrets behind his captivating craft.

From this episode, you can expect to learn about:

1. The art of asking questions to uncover hidden thoughts.
2. Techniques mentalists use to create engaging performances.
3. How emotional awareness enhances mind-reading.
4. The importance of audience interaction in mentalism.
5. Strategies for dealing with challenging audience members.
6. The role of curiosity and observation in mentalism.
7. Insights into performing for diverse audiences and venues.