Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs

Author Conversations with Chris Dabbshttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413
Broadcast journalist Chris Dabbs speaks with novelists, historians, scientists, religious and commuunity leaders and non-fiction writers about their work, the research behind their books and the stories that shaped them.

Each episode takes a thoughtful look at the creative process, big ideas and the questions authors wrestle with when writing about history, science, politics and the human experience.

If you enjoy author interviews, literary conversations and discussions about books and ideas, Author Conversations offers a relaxed but insightful look behind the pages.

Hosted by Chris Dabbs – broadcast journalist and podcast host.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.]]>enBooksNobis Media Ltd and Chris Dabbshttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/ee4fb2b3b141f23c54ec2b680bc215ac.jpgAuthor Conversations with Chris Dabbshttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413Fri, 30 Oct 2026 12:54:52 +0000Chris DabbsNobis Media Ltd and Chris Dabbsinfo@author-conversations.comAuthor Conversations with Chris Dabbs is a long-form interview podcast exploring the ideas behind books. Broadcast journalist Chris Dabbs speaks with novelists, historians, scientists, religious and commuunity leaders and non-fiction writers about...
Broadcast journalist Chris Dabbs speaks with novelists, historians, scientists, religious and commuunity leaders and non-fiction writers about their work, the research behind their books and the stories that shaped them.

Each episode takes a thoughtful look at the creative process, big ideas and the questions authors wrestle with when writing about history, science, politics and the human experience.

If you enjoy author interviews, literary conversations and discussions about books and ideas, Author Conversations offers a relaxed but insightful look behind the pages.

Hosted by Chris Dabbs – broadcast journalist and podcast host.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.]]>false0cfacb78-6ed7-585b-a0dc-3d78d7ee43b3episodicSupport the podcast!Dessie Williams at 91 - Family, Faith and How Things Have Changedhttps://www.author-conversations.com/dessie-williamsDessie Williams is 91, and she has seen an extraordinary amount of change in her lifetime. In our conversation, we talk about the family stories she wants to preserve, her faith and the differences between the world she grew up in and the world we know today.

What interested me was how Dessie connects her own memories with the bigger changes in society. These aren't distant accounts of history - they are stories she has lived with, remembered and chosen to share.

Dessie’s book, *His Wonders to Perform: Mama, Daddy, and My Cousin Robert Battle*, tells the story of the people who shaped her life. We discuss her parents, the lessons they passed down and memories of racism and dignity, alongside her cousin Robert Battle and his remarkable journey into dance.

Book - His Wonders to Perform: Mama, Daddy, and My Cousin Robert Battle
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079...

Author Conversations:
https://author-conversations.c...

Watch Author Conversations on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@AuthorConversations

Listen on iHeart:
https://www.iheart.com/podcast...

Presented by Chris Dabbs for Author Conversations.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/76075354Fri, 30 Oct 2026 12:42:46 +0000Chris DabbsDessie Williams is 91, and she has seen an extraordinary amount of change in her lifetime. In our conversation, we talk about the family stories she wants to preserve, her faith and the differences between the world she grew up in and the world we...Dessie Williams is 91, and she has seen an extraordinary amount of change in her lifetime. In our conversation, we talk about the family stories she wants to preserve, her faith and the differences between the world she grew up in and the world we know today.

What interested me was how Dessie connects her own memories with the bigger changes in society. These aren't distant accounts of history - they are stories she has lived with, remembered and chosen to share.

Dessie’s book, *His Wonders to Perform: Mama, Daddy, and My Cousin Robert Battle*, tells the story of the people who shaped her life. We discuss her parents, the lessons they passed down and memories of racism and dignity, alongside her cousin Robert Battle and his remarkable journey into dance.

Book - His Wonders to Perform: Mama, Daddy, and My Cousin Robert Battle
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079...

Author Conversations:
https://author-conversations.c...

Watch Author Conversations on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@AuthorConversations

Listen on iHeart:
https://www.iheart.com/podcast...

Presented by Chris Dabbs for Author Conversations.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>289291_years_of_change,african_american_history,author_conversations,author_interview,black_history,books,chris_dabbs,dessie_williams,dessie_williams_interview,faith,family_history,family_legacy,history,his_wonders_to_perform,lived_experience,memoir,oral_history,racism_in_america,robert_battle,social_changefalse141fullFrom Poverty and Prison to Education and a New Life - Martin Terrellhttps://www.author-conversations.com/martin-terrellMartin Terrell has been through a lot. Poverty, racial segregation, drugs, prison and some incredibly difficult experiences along the way. But even after everything he's been through, he still considers himself a fortunate man.

And I think that's quite something.

When I spoke with Martin, we went right back to his childhood growing up in the ghetto in America, losing his mother at a young age and finding himself in circumstances where the opportunities available to him were pretty limited.

There were moments when I got the feeling that some of those memories were difficult for him to talk about. I didn't want to rush him, so I gave him the time and space to tell his story.

We talked about his experiences with drugs, his time in prison, including a burglary conviction for a crime he maintains he didn't commit, and how education eventually helped him change the direction of his life.

But what really struck me was how warmly Martin spoke about the people who helped him along the way. Neighbours, friends, teachers and others who believed in him, encouraged him and sometimes simply showed him a bit of kindness when he needed it.

He certainly hasn't forgotten them or what they did for him.

It's something I'm noticing more and more in my Author Conversations. People often consider themselves lucky because, at some point in their lives, someone took the time to help them.

Martin went on to earn a graduate scholarship to Ohio State University, study journalism and become a writer. His books draw on many of those experiences, including the inequalities he witnessed in the justice system and the community that helped raise him.

What I found interesting was that Martin doesn't seem to look back on his life simply in terms of everything that went wrong. He also remembers the people who helped things go right.

It's a longer conversation than usual, and at times quite a personal one. But I'm glad we had it, and I'm grateful to Martin for being so open with me.

I'm Chris Dabbs, and this is Author Conversations.

Content note: This episode includes discussions of childhood bereavement, poverty, racial segregation, drug use, imprisonment and difficult family experiences.

ABOUT MARTIN TERRELL & HIS BOOKS

Martin Terrell's official website:
https://www.martinterrell.com/
and
https://www.author-conversations.com/martin-terrell

AUTHOR CONVERSATIONS
Watch more interviews with authors from around the world:
https://www.youtube.com/@AuthorConversations

Visit Author Conversations:
https://www.author-conversations.com/

ABOUT YOUR HOST
Chris Dabbs - broadcast journalist, presenter and voiceover artist:
https://www.chrisdabbs.online/

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/76039864Wed, 28 Oct 2026 10:14:46 +0000Chris DabbsMartin Terrell has been through a lot. Poverty, racial segregation, drugs, prison and some incredibly difficult experiences along the way. But even after everything he's been through, he still considers himself a fortunate man. And I think that's...Martin Terrell has been through a lot. Poverty, racial segregation, drugs, prison and some incredibly difficult experiences along the way. But even after everything he's been through, he still considers himself a fortunate man.

And I think that's quite something.

When I spoke with Martin, we went right back to his childhood growing up in the ghetto in America, losing his mother at a young age and finding himself in circumstances where the opportunities available to him were pretty limited.

There were moments when I got the feeling that some of those memories were difficult for him to talk about. I didn't want to rush him, so I gave him the time and space to tell his story.

We talked about his experiences with drugs, his time in prison, including a burglary conviction for a crime he maintains he didn't commit, and how education eventually helped him change the direction of his life.

But what really struck me was how warmly Martin spoke about the people who helped him along the way. Neighbours, friends, teachers and others who believed in him, encouraged him and sometimes simply showed him a bit of kindness when he needed it.

He certainly hasn't forgotten them or what they did for him.

It's something I'm noticing more and more in my Author Conversations. People often consider themselves lucky because, at some point in their lives, someone took the time to help them.

Martin went on to earn a graduate scholarship to Ohio State University, study journalism and become a writer. His books draw on many of those experiences, including the inequalities he witnessed in the justice system and the community that helped raise him.

What I found interesting was that Martin doesn't seem to look back on his life simply in terms of everything that went wrong. He also remembers the people who helped things go right.

It's a longer conversation than usual, and at times quite a personal one. But I'm glad we had it, and I'm grateful to Martin for being so open with me.

I'm Chris Dabbs, and this is Author Conversations.

Content note: This episode includes discussions of childhood bereavement, poverty, racial segregation, drug use, imprisonment and difficult family experiences.

ABOUT MARTIN TERRELL & HIS BOOKS

Martin Terrell's official website:
https://www.martinterrell.com/
and
https://www.author-conversations.com/martin-terrell

AUTHOR CONVERSATIONS
Watch more interviews with authors from around the world:
https://www.youtube.com/@AuthorConversations

Visit Author Conversations:
https://www.author-conversations.com/

ABOUT YOUR HOST
Chris Dabbs - broadcast journalist, presenter and voiceover artist:
https://www.chrisdabbs.online/

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto...]]>3729african_american_history,author_conversations,author_interview,childhood_poverty,chris_dabbs,civil_rights,education,human_kindness,justice_system,life_experiences,life_story,martin_terrell,mentorship,ohio_state_university,overcoming_adversity,personal_memoir,prison_education,prison_experience,racial_segregation,writingfalse140fullLeading in the AI Age: Jeff Arnold on Judgement, Trust and Staying Humanhttp://www.author-conversations.com/jeffery-arnoldJeff Arnold has spent almost 30 years working across insurance, technology, entrepreneurship and leadership.

What I found interesting in this conversation is that his view of AI is not about embracing every new development or resisting change.

It is really about judgement.

Jeff’s latest book, **Clarity Among Humans and Machines**, looks at how leaders make good decisions when technology is developing quickly and the pressure to automate more of what we do keeps increasing.

We talk about where AI has genuinely improved his businesses, including one process that was reduced from around 13 minutes to just over two, but also about the moments when technology has not been the right answer.

In one case, customers simply wanted to speak to another human being.

That leads us into a much wider conversation about leadership, trust, empathy and judgement - and why those qualities may become even more important as AI becomes more capable.

Jeff also talks openly about some of the decisions that have shaped him as a leader, including times when he got things wrong, what he learnt from failure and how his earlier experiences in the US Army, acting and stand-up comedy influenced the way he works with people today.

We discuss how leaders should introduce AI without losing the trust of their teams, what happens when employees worry that technology could replace them and whether qualities such as empathy and genuine care can really be taught.

And towards the end, we look further ahead.

If machines become dramatically more capable over the next 20 years, which parts of leadership, judgement and human connection should we still be very careful about handing over?

**Jeff Arnold**
https://jeffarnold.com

**Clarity Among Humans and Machines**

Author Conversations is hosted by broadcast journalist Chris Dabbs, with experience at the BBC, ITV News and Times Radio.

**More Author Conversations**
https://www.author-conversatio...

Tap here to go to Jeff's page on Author Conversations

**Watch on YouTube**
https://www.youtube.com/@AuthorConversations

Watch Jeff on YouTube

00:00 Welcome - Jeff Arnold
01:40 From the Army and Hollywood to business
04:49 Why failure should never define you
07:20 What comedy can teach a leader
09:37 Why clarity matters in the age of AI
14:29 Learning when to introduce new technology
17:43 How AI transformed an insurance process
19:30 When customers still want a human
21:04 Meeting customers where they are
27:13 What humans still do better than AI
31:42 When employees fear being replaced
36:06 Can you teach people to care?
40:16 How one bad hire can affect a culture
43:15 The leadership lesson Jeff learnt the hard way
45:16 What happens as AI becomes more capable?
50:08 Jeff Arnold’s books
51:53 Looking ahead 20 years

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/75976428Sun, 25 Oct 2026 18:26:22 +0000Chris DabbsJeff Arnold has spent almost 30 years working across insurance, technology, entrepreneurship and leadership. What I found interesting in this conversation is that his view of AI is not about embracing every new development or resisting change. It is...Jeff Arnold has spent almost 30 years working across insurance, technology, entrepreneurship and leadership.

What I found interesting in this conversation is that his view of AI is not about embracing every new development or resisting change.

It is really about judgement.

Jeff’s latest book, **Clarity Among Humans and Machines**, looks at how leaders make good decisions when technology is developing quickly and the pressure to automate more of what we do keeps increasing.

We talk about where AI has genuinely improved his businesses, including one process that was reduced from around 13 minutes to just over two, but also about the moments when technology has not been the right answer.

In one case, customers simply wanted to speak to another human being.

That leads us into a much wider conversation about leadership, trust, empathy and judgement - and why those qualities may become even more important as AI becomes more capable.

Jeff also talks openly about some of the decisions that have shaped him as a leader, including times when he got things wrong, what he learnt from failure and how his earlier experiences in the US Army, acting and stand-up comedy influenced the way he works with people today.

We discuss how leaders should introduce AI without losing the trust of their teams, what happens when employees worry that technology could replace them and whether qualities such as empathy and genuine care can really be taught.

And towards the end, we look further ahead.

If machines become dramatically more capable over the next 20 years, which parts of leadership, judgement and human connection should we still be very careful about handing over?

**Jeff Arnold**
https://jeffarnold.com

**Clarity Among Humans and Machines**

Author Conversations is hosted by broadcast journalist Chris Dabbs, with experience at the BBC, ITV News and Times Radio.

**More Author Conversations**
https://www.author-conversatio...

Tap here to go to Jeff's page on Author Conversations

**Watch on YouTube**
https://www.youtube.com/@AuthorConversations

Watch Jeff on YouTube

00:00 Welcome - Jeff Arnold
01:40 From the Army and Hollywood to business
04:49 Why failure should never define you
07:20 What comedy can teach a leader
09:37 Why clarity matters in the age of AI
14:29 Learning when to introduce new technology
17:43 How AI transformed an insurance process
19:30 When customers still want a human
21:04 Meeting customers where they are
27:13 What humans still do better than AI
31:42 When employees fear being replaced
36:06 Can you teach people to care?
40:16 How one bad hire can affect a culture
43:15 The leadership lesson Jeff learnt the hard way
45:16 What happens as AI becomes more capable?
50:08 Jeff Arnold’s books
51:53 Looking ahead 20 years

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations,...]]>3169ai_in_business,ai_leadership,artificial_intelligence,author_conversations,business_leadership,chris_dabbs,clarity_humans_machines,future_of_work,human_judgement,jeff_arnold,leadershipfalse139fullSurviving or Thriving? How to Rewire Stress and Find Purpose | Siddharth Bhaskarhttps://www.author-conversations.com/siddharth-bhaskar
Siddharth Bhaskar, author of The Office in Your Mind, joins Chris Dabbs to explore how we can change our response to stress, strengthen our relationships and find a greater sense of purpose.

Drawing on psychology, neuroscience and mindfulness, Siddharth explains the personal experiences behind his book and introduces the CLIMB framework — a practical approach designed to help people move beyond coping and begin thriving.

In this conversation, Siddharth discusses workplace pressure, emotional resilience, mindfulness in everyday life, the difference between success and fulfilment, and how pausing before we react can lead to better decisions and healthier relationships.

Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs goes beyond the pages to discover the people, experiences and ideas behind remarkable books.

00:00 Introduction
01:00 The Office in Your Mind
02:10 Siddharth’s childhood and early resilience
06:06 Corporate stress and mindfulness
07:49 Career change, family separation and lost identity
10:25 Creating Breath of Life and the book
13:22 Are we surviving or thriving?
16:58 Stress, the brain and healthier relationships
22:06 Mindfulness beyond meditation
28:02 The CLIMB framework explained
32:07 Bringing mindfulness into workplaces and schools
36:39 How mindfulness changed Siddharth
40:09 Closing thoughts

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/75940445Fri, 23 Oct 2026 15:58:47 +0000Chris DabbsAre you truly thriving — or simply getting through each day? Siddharth Bhaskar, author of The Office in Your Mind, joins Chris Dabbs to explore how we can change our response to stress, strengthen our relationships and find a greater sense of...
Siddharth Bhaskar, author of The Office in Your Mind, joins Chris Dabbs to explore how we can change our response to stress, strengthen our relationships and find a greater sense of purpose.

Drawing on psychology, neuroscience and mindfulness, Siddharth explains the personal experiences behind his book and introduces the CLIMB framework — a practical approach designed to help people move beyond coping and begin thriving.

In this conversation, Siddharth discusses workplace pressure, emotional resilience, mindfulness in everyday life, the difference between success and fulfilment, and how pausing before we react can lead to better decisions and healthier relationships.

Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs goes beyond the pages to discover the people, experiences and ideas behind remarkable books.

00:00 Introduction
01:00 The Office in Your Mind
02:10 Siddharth’s childhood and early resilience
06:06 Corporate stress and mindfulness
07:49 Career change, family separation and lost identity
10:25 Creating Breath of Life and the book
13:22 Are we surviving or thriving?
16:58 Stress, the brain and healthier relationships
22:06 Mindfulness beyond meditation
28:02 The CLIMB framework explained
32:07 Bringing mindfulness into workplaces and schools
36:39 How mindfulness changed Siddharth
40:09 Closing thoughts

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>2503author conversations,author interview,chris dabbs,climb framework,emotional resilience,finding purpose,healthy relationships,mental health,mindfulness,neuroscience,personal growth,psychology,self development,siddharth bhaskar,stress management,the office in your mind,workplace stressfalse138fullHe Quit Law for Music. Now His Comedy Books Are Becoming Films | Steven Triohttps://www.author-conversations.com/steven-trioNow Steven Trio is writing comedy, satire and stories destined for the screen.

In this episode of Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs, we meet a jazz pianist, composer, songwriter and author whose creative journey has taken some remarkable turns.

Steven talks about growing up with a passion for music, his father's insistence that he pursue a respectable profession and the decision to abandon the law.

We explore the musical career that followed, including a hit record in South America, and how songwriting eventually led him towards poetry, absurdist humour and comic fiction.

From Boobydoo and Burn and Yearn to the political satire of The Jazzgate Scandal, Steven explains his fascination with wordplay, unlikely characters and the ridiculous side of everyday life.

He also reveals his ambitions for film and television, including work under way on a screen adaptation of A Voice to Die For.

In this conversation:

Why Steven abandoned a promising legal career

His journey through jazz, pop and songwriting

The hit song that helped shape his musical career

Discovering a talent for comedy and punchlines

The influence of Spike Milligan and Some Like It Hot

The painstaking craft behind apparently effortless humour

Why his writing is now moving towards film

Discover Steven Trio:
https://steventrio.com/

More Author Conversations:
https://www.author-conversatio... />
Subscribe for conversations with authors, bestselling writers and leading thinkers, hosted by broadcast journalist Chris Dabbs.

#StevenTrio #AuthorConversations #ComedyWriting #AuthorInterview #CreativeWriting

00:00 Introduction - Meet Steven Trio
02:04 Discovering the piano at eight
07:19 A father's expectations and a career in law
11:28 Life as a solicitor
16:04 Leaving the law behind
18:00 Finding his musical direction
20:01 From songwriting to poetry
21:09 A hit record in South America
22:06 Discovering creative potential
26:00 The origins of Steven's comedy
27:49 Comedy influences and writing punchlines
29:13 The discipline behind creative writing
35:53 Short humour versus longer stories
37:04 The origins of The Jazzgate Scandal
41:08 Is music connected to comedy?
43:04 Steven's plans for the future
46:04 Turning his books into films
48:15 A Voice to Die For
50:16 Where to find Steven's work

Https://www.author-conversations.com/steven-trio

https://youtu.be/tdwJztjqSm8

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/75861731Tue, 20 Oct 2026 14:47:33 +0000Chris DabbsSteven Trio qualified as a solicitor (lawyer) and then quit after just six months and pursued the life he'd always wanted - music. Now Steven Trio is writing comedy, satire and stories destined for the screen. In this episode of Author Conversations...Now Steven Trio is writing comedy, satire and stories destined for the screen.

In this episode of Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs, we meet a jazz pianist, composer, songwriter and author whose creative journey has taken some remarkable turns.

Steven talks about growing up with a passion for music, his father's insistence that he pursue a respectable profession and the decision to abandon the law.

We explore the musical career that followed, including a hit record in South America, and how songwriting eventually led him towards poetry, absurdist humour and comic fiction.

From Boobydoo and Burn and Yearn to the political satire of The Jazzgate Scandal, Steven explains his fascination with wordplay, unlikely characters and the ridiculous side of everyday life.

He also reveals his ambitions for film and television, including work under way on a screen adaptation of A Voice to Die For.

In this conversation:

Why Steven abandoned a promising legal career

His journey through jazz, pop and songwriting

The hit song that helped shape his musical career

Discovering a talent for comedy and punchlines

The influence of Spike Milligan and Some Like It Hot

The painstaking craft behind apparently effortless humour

Why his writing is now moving towards film

Discover Steven Trio:
https://steventrio.com/

More Author Conversations:
https://www.author-conversatio... />
Subscribe for conversations with authors, bestselling writers and leading thinkers, hosted by broadcast journalist Chris Dabbs.

#StevenTrio #AuthorConversations #ComedyWriting #AuthorInterview #CreativeWriting

00:00 Introduction - Meet Steven Trio
02:04 Discovering the piano at eight
07:19 A father's expectations and a career in law
11:28 Life as a solicitor
16:04 Leaving the law behind
18:00 Finding his musical direction
20:01 From songwriting to poetry
21:09 A hit record in South America
22:06 Discovering creative potential
26:00 The origins of Steven's comedy
27:49 Comedy influences and writing punchlines
29:13 The discipline behind creative writing
35:53 Short humour versus longer stories
37:04 The origins of The Jazzgate Scandal
41:08 Is music connected to comedy?
43:04 Steven's plans for the future
46:04 Turning his books into films
48:15 A Voice to Die For
50:16 Where to find Steven's work

Https://www.author-conversations.com/steven-trio

https://youtu.be/tdwJztjqSm8

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true...]]>3121author-conversations,author-interview,a-voice-to-die-for,boobydoo,book-adaptations,career-change,chris-dabbs,comedy-writing,creative-writing,humorous-fiction,jazz-musician,political-satire,spike-milligan,steven-trio,the-jazzgate-scandalfalse137fullWhen Friends Become Bullies | Marcellus Mitchell & Dr Lucille Hilliardhttp://www.autor-conversations.com/marcellus-mitchell-lucille-hilliard-that-thingWhat happens when the people making you feel small are the very people you thought were your friends?

In this edition of Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs, Chris is joined by mother-and-son co-authors Dr Lucille Hilliard and Marcellus Mitchell to discuss their children’s book THAT “thing!”.

The story follows the Elegant Elephant when her friendship with Fly and Flea suddenly fractures. She finds herself excluded, blamed, shamed and bullied - and has to discover the strength to understand her own value and come through the experience.

But this conversation goes well beyond the pages of a children’s book. Marcellus and Dr Hilliard explain that the inspiration came from a real experience involving an adult, opening up a wider discussion about how bullying can happen at school, at home, in friendships and in the workplace.

They explore why children need help recognising what genuine friendship looks like, why parents and teachers may sometimes miss the signs of bullying and why asking for help can be one of the most important steps a child can take.

The conversation also examines self-esteem, confidence, peer pressure, faith and the importance of teaching children that their value does not depend on how somebody else chooses to treat them.

AT THE HEART OF THAT “THING!” IS A MESSAGE DELIBERATELY DESIGNED TO BE REMEMBERED:

Don’t lie. Don’t bully. Don’t blame. Don’t shame.

And perhaps an even simpler one:

I am special.

**IN THIS CONVERSATION:**

• Childhood and adult bullying
• Exclusion and isolation
• Recognising unhealthy friendships
• Helping children understand their own worth
• The role of parents and teachers
• Asking for help
• Confidence and self-esteem
• Faith and resilience
• The real-life experience behind the book

**GUESTS**

Marcellus Mitchell, M.Div. - philosopher and teacher
Dr Lucille Hilliard - co-author of THAT “thing!”

EXPLORE MORE AUTHOR CONVERSATIONS
www.author-conversations.com

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/75749007Tue, 13 Oct 2026 13:55:38 +0000Chris DabbsWhat happens when the people making you feel small are the very people you thought were your friends? In this edition of Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs, Chris is joined by mother-and-son co-authors Dr Lucille Hilliard and Marcellus Mitchell to...What happens when the people making you feel small are the very people you thought were your friends?

In this edition of Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs, Chris is joined by mother-and-son co-authors Dr Lucille Hilliard and Marcellus Mitchell to discuss their children’s book THAT “thing!”.

The story follows the Elegant Elephant when her friendship with Fly and Flea suddenly fractures. She finds herself excluded, blamed, shamed and bullied - and has to discover the strength to understand her own value and come through the experience.

But this conversation goes well beyond the pages of a children’s book. Marcellus and Dr Hilliard explain that the inspiration came from a real experience involving an adult, opening up a wider discussion about how bullying can happen at school, at home, in friendships and in the workplace.

They explore why children need help recognising what genuine friendship looks like, why parents and teachers may sometimes miss the signs of bullying and why asking for help can be one of the most important steps a child can take.

The conversation also examines self-esteem, confidence, peer pressure, faith and the importance of teaching children that their value does not depend on how somebody else chooses to treat them.

AT THE HEART OF THAT “THING!” IS A MESSAGE DELIBERATELY DESIGNED TO BE REMEMBERED:

Don’t lie. Don’t bully. Don’t blame. Don’t shame.

And perhaps an even simpler one:

I am special.

**IN THIS CONVERSATION:**

• Childhood and adult bullying
• Exclusion and isolation
• Recognising unhealthy friendships
• Helping children understand their own worth
• The role of parents and teachers
• Asking for help
• Confidence and self-esteem
• Faith and resilience
• The real-life experience behind the book

**GUESTS**

Marcellus Mitchell, M.Div. - philosopher and teacher
Dr Lucille Hilliard - co-author of THAT “thing!”

EXPLORE MORE AUTHOR CONVERSATIONS
www.author-conversations.com

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>2756adult bullying,author conversations,bullying,childhood bullying,children's books,chris dabbs,confidence,emotional resilience,friendship,lucille hilliard,marcellus mitchell,parenting,peer pressure,self esteem,that thing,toxic friendshipsfalse136fullAre Your Family Stories Being Forgotten? | Pete Zimmer - Barn Secretshttps://www.author-conversations.com//pete-zimmerEvery life is full of stories. Some make us laugh, others take us back to people and places we've almost forgotten. But how many of those stories do we ever write down?

In this episode of Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs, presented by SLM Books, Chris meets Pete Zimmer, author of Barn Secrets, a collection of stories inspired by a lifetime of experiences, family memories and fascinating encounters.

Pete has enjoyed an extraordinary variety of careers, from musician and broadcast engineer to inventor and businessman.
Along the way, he's developed a fascination with people, places and the stories that might otherwise be lost.

The inspiration for Barn Secrets came during a drive through rural Missouri with his wife, Pat, when the sight of an old barn sparked an idea.
Through an imaginative journey into barns and forgotten places, Pete brings together stories drawn from his own life, blending personal memories, family history and fiction.In this warm and entertaining conversation,
Pete shares the inspiration behind some of his favourite stories, including unusual family traditions, childhood memories and the characters who have stayed with him over the years.
He also talks about the importance of preserving family history, the art of storytelling and the invaluable contribution of his wife, Pat, who helped research, write and edit the book.In this conversation:

How an old barn inspired an imaginative collection of stories
Turning real-life experiences into entertaining fiction
The family memories and characters behind Barn Secrets
Why preserving personal and family history matters
Pat's role in bringing the book to life
Pete's remarkable career and his enthusiasm for storytelling

How an old barn inspired an imaginative collection of stories
Turning real-life experiences into entertaining fiction
The family memories and characters behind Barn Secrets
Why preserving personal and family history matters
Pat's role in bringing the book to life
Pete's remarkable career and his enthusiasm for storytelling

At its heart, Barn Secrets is a celebration of the stories we accumulate throughout our lives and the importance of passing them on.

Discover Pete Zimmer and Barn Secrets:
https://barnsecrets.net

Explore more Author Conversations:
www.author-conversations.com

Watch on YouTube:
Watch Pete Zimmer's interview on YouTube

Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs is hosted by broadcast journalist Chris Dabbs and features conversations with authors about their books, their lives and the ideas behind their writing.

This episode is presented by SLM Books.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories...]]>1704american-stories,author-conversations,author-interview,barn-secrets,books-and-authors,chris-dabbs,creative-writing,family-history,fiction-writing,first-time-authors,life-stories,literary-fiction,personal-memories,peter-zimmer,pete-zimmer,preserving-memories,short-stories,slm-global,storytelling,writing-inspirationfalse135fullWhat?! Psychic Surgery? Can It Really Help? Dr Scott M. Taubold Explainshttps://www.author-conversations.com/dr-scott-tauboldWhat happens when a centuries-old healing tradition collides with Western ideas of medicine, science and proof?

In this edition of Author Conversations, broadcast journalist Chris Dabbs speaks with Dr Scott M Taubold, author of The System of Healing Used by the Filipino Espiritistas.
He discusses the history of what Western observers came to call “psychic surgery”, the role of trance and spiritual belief and the place traditional healers can occupy alongside conventional medicine.

Originally developed from Dr Taubold’s doctoral research, the book explores the healing practices of Filipino Espiritistas — practitioners whose traditions combine indigenous approaches, spirituality, cultural belief and influences including Christianity.
During the conversation, Dr Taubold explains how his interest began after moving to Hawaii, becoming immersed in Filipino culture and later travelling regularly to the Philippines.

The conversation also examines the difficult boundary between observation, belief and scientific evidence. Dr Taubold describes experiences he says he witnessed personally but acknowledges the challenges involved in scientifically proving or disproving such phenomena.

Chris and Dr Scott discuss:
• Why Filipino Espiritista healing became internationally known as “psychic surgery”
• The influence of indigenous Filipino traditions and Christianity
• Scott’s doctoral research and experiences in the Philippines
• Folk healers and their role within local communities
• The relationship between belief, placebo effects and mind-body medicine
• Claims of unusual healing experiences and the limits of scientific investigation
• Why traditional healing practices can disappear as cultures change
• Whether conventional and complementary approaches to health can coexist
• What Scott hopes readers will take from his research

This conversation explores the subject as a cultural, historical and personal account. Experiences and medical or healing claims discussed by the guest should not be interpreted as medical advice or as a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

ABOUT THE GUEST Dr Scott M Taubold is the author of The System of Healing Used by the Filipino Espiritistas, a work developed from his academic research into Filipino healing traditions.

His interest grew through his experience of Filipino culture, family connections to the Philippines and research into complementary, alternative and mind-body approaches to healing.

🌐 Scott Taubold: psychicsurgery.net

CONTENT / MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
This programme discusses traditional, complementary and spiritual healing practices and includes personal experiences and opinions expressed by the guest. These claims have not necessarily been established through conventional scientific evidence. Nothing in this episode constitutes medical advice and listeners should consult an appropriately qualified healthcare professional regarding medical conditions or treatment.

ABOUT THE PROGRAMME Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs is a long-form interview programme featuring authors, writers and thinkers discussing the stories, ideas and experiences behind their work.

Hosted by Chris Dabbs, a broadcast journalist, interviewer and university lecturer with experience including BBC Radio and Times Radio, Author Conversations goes beyond the standard book promotion interview to explore the ideas behind the page.

🎥 Watch Author Conversations on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@AuthorConversations

🌐 Author Conversations:
https://www.author-conversations.com

🎙️ Hosted by Chris Dabbs:
https://www.chrisdabbs.online

00:00 – Introduction: Dr Scott M Taubold and Filipino Espiritista healing
00:38 – What is “psychic surgery”?
01:52 – Charlatans, sleight of hand and the placebo effect
03:31 – How Scott first became interested in the subject
04:39 – Hawaii, Filipino culture and the beginnings of his research
06:40 – Turning the subject into a doctoral dissertation
07:03 – Scott’s first trip to the Philippines
08:06 – How traditional healing fits into Filipino healthcare
10:40 – Indigenous traditions, Catholicism and cultural influence
13:22 – What Scott says he witnessed during his research
15:08 – Spiritual explanations and the limits of scientific proof
16:23 – Scott’s own experience of receiving treatment
17:28 – What he hopes readers take from the book
18:26 – Alternative medicine and conventional healthcare
21:27 – Cultural differences and broadening our view of healing
22:19 – Mind-body medicine and psychological factors in recovery
24:24 – Final thoughts and where to find the book
25:26 – Outro

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/75240015Wed, 23 Sep 2026 14:50:44 +0000Chris DabbsWhat happens when a centuries-old healing tradition collides with Western ideas of medicine, science and proof? In this edition of Author Conversations, broadcast journalist Chris Dabbs speaks with Dr Scott M Taubold, author of The System of Healing...What happens when a centuries-old healing tradition collides with Western ideas of medicine, science and proof?

In this edition of Author Conversations, broadcast journalist Chris Dabbs speaks with Dr Scott M Taubold, author of The System of Healing Used by the Filipino Espiritistas.
He discusses the history of what Western observers came to call “psychic surgery”, the role of trance and spiritual belief and the place traditional healers can occupy alongside conventional medicine.

Originally developed from Dr Taubold’s doctoral research, the book explores the healing practices of Filipino Espiritistas — practitioners whose traditions combine indigenous approaches, spirituality, cultural belief and influences including Christianity.
During the conversation, Dr Taubold explains how his interest began after moving to Hawaii, becoming immersed in Filipino culture and later travelling regularly to the Philippines.

The conversation also examines the difficult boundary between observation, belief and scientific evidence. Dr Taubold describes experiences he says he witnessed personally but acknowledges the challenges involved in scientifically proving or disproving such phenomena.

Chris and Dr Scott discuss:
• Why Filipino Espiritista healing became internationally known as “psychic surgery”
• The influence of indigenous Filipino traditions and Christianity
• Scott’s doctoral research and experiences in the Philippines
• Folk healers and their role within local communities
• The relationship between belief, placebo effects and mind-body medicine
• Claims of unusual healing experiences and the limits of scientific investigation
• Why traditional healing practices can disappear as cultures change
• Whether conventional and complementary approaches to health can coexist
• What Scott hopes readers will take from his research

This conversation explores the subject as a cultural, historical and personal account. Experiences and medical or healing claims discussed by the guest should not be interpreted as medical advice or as a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

ABOUT THE GUEST Dr Scott M Taubold is the author of The System of Healing Used by the Filipino Espiritistas, a work developed from his academic research into Filipino healing traditions.

His interest grew through his experience of Filipino culture, family connections to the Philippines and research into complementary, alternative and mind-body approaches to healing.

🌐 Scott Taubold: psychicsurgery.net

CONTENT / MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
This programme discusses traditional, complementary and spiritual healing practices and includes personal experiences and opinions expressed by the guest. These claims have not necessarily been established through conventional scientific evidence. Nothing in this episode constitutes medical advice and listeners should consult an appropriately qualified healthcare professional regarding medical conditions or treatment.

ABOUT THE PROGRAMME Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs is a long-form interview programme featuring authors, writers and thinkers discussing the stories, ideas and experiences behind their work.

Hosted by Chris Dabbs, a broadcast journalist, interviewer and university lecturer with experience including BBC Radio and Times Radio, Author Conversations goes beyond the standard book promotion interview to explore the ideas behind the page.

🎥 Watch Author Conversations on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@AuthorConversations1547alternative-medicine,author-conversations,chris-dabbs,complementary-medicine,dr-scott-taubold,espiritista-healing,faith-healing,filipino-culture,filipino-espiritistas,filipino-healing,folk-medicine,healing-traditions,indigenous-healing,mind-body-medicine,philippines,placebo-effect,psychic-surgery,scott-taubold,spiritual-healing,traditional-healingfalse134full13,000 Cyclists, One Explosion—Who Gets Home? Author REYNOLD CONGER talks with Chris Dabbshttps://www.author-conversations.com/reynold-conger🚴 A 70-year-old retired detective. A 150-mile charity bicycle ride. Thousands of cyclists travelling from Houston to Austin.💥 And an explosion that turns an endurance challenge into a dangerous rescue mission.

Author Reynold Conger joins Author Conversations' Chris Dabbs to discuss A Dangerous Bike Ride, the first book in his Richard Tracy series.

📖 The idea for the novel came from a striking real-life moment.

Shortly after the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, Reynold and his wife were in Austin watching their own children complete the Texas MS 150 bicycle ride.
Surrounded by thousands of cyclists and spectators, his writer's mind posed a disturbing question: could something similar happen here?From that thought grew the story of Richard Tracy — a 70-year-old retired detective, former Marine and marathon runner who reluctantly agrees to join his children on the two-day ride.
Richard isn't a cyclist.
He is expecting sore muscles and a struggle to keep up.

❤️ Instead, he meets Mary Beth Austin, a retired chef, gardener, widow and accomplished cyclist.
Then... an explosion changes everything.

🎙️ In this wide-ranging conversation, Reynold talks about creating an older action hero, writing later-life romance, drawing on the experience of a police officer friend to shape Richard's detective instincts and developing antagonists whose own damaged perceptions make them particularly dangerous.

🧪 He also explains how his background as a chemist, engineer and international consultant influences the technical detail in his fiction and why aspects of himself and his wife inevitably found their way into Richard and Mary Beth.

📚 And A Dangerous Bike Ride is only the beginning: Reynold reveals how the Richard Tracy series develops and why, in later books, the balance between rescuer and rescued doesn't always remain the same.

🎤 Hosted by broadcast journalist, interviewer and university lecturer Chris Dabbs, Author Conversations is the long-form interview programme exploring books, ideas and the people behind them.
▶️ Watch Author Conversations on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@AuthorConversations
Watch on YouTube - tap here

🌐 Discover more:
https://www.author-conversations.com

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/75202171Fri, 18 Sep 2026 11:26:21 +0000Chris Dabbs🚴 A 70-year-old retired detective. A 150-mile charity bicycle ride. Thousands of cyclists travelling from Houston to Austin.💥 And an explosion that turns an endurance challenge into a dangerous rescue mission. Author Reynold Conger joins Author...🚴 A 70-year-old retired detective. A 150-mile charity bicycle ride. Thousands of cyclists travelling from Houston to Austin.💥 And an explosion that turns an endurance challenge into a dangerous rescue mission.

Author Reynold Conger joins Author Conversations' Chris Dabbs to discuss A Dangerous Bike Ride, the first book in his Richard Tracy series.

📖 The idea for the novel came from a striking real-life moment.

Shortly after the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, Reynold and his wife were in Austin watching their own children complete the Texas MS 150 bicycle ride.
Surrounded by thousands of cyclists and spectators, his writer's mind posed a disturbing question: could something similar happen here?From that thought grew the story of Richard Tracy — a 70-year-old retired detective, former Marine and marathon runner who reluctantly agrees to join his children on the two-day ride.
Richard isn't a cyclist.
He is expecting sore muscles and a struggle to keep up.

❤️ Instead, he meets Mary Beth Austin, a retired chef, gardener, widow and accomplished cyclist.
Then... an explosion changes everything.

🎙️ In this wide-ranging conversation, Reynold talks about creating an older action hero, writing later-life romance, drawing on the experience of a police officer friend to shape Richard's detective instincts and developing antagonists whose own damaged perceptions make them particularly dangerous.

🧪 He also explains how his background as a chemist, engineer and international consultant influences the technical detail in his fiction and why aspects of himself and his wife inevitably found their way into Richard and Mary Beth.

📚 And A Dangerous Bike Ride is only the beginning: Reynold reveals how the Richard Tracy series develops and why, in later books, the balance between rescuer and rescued doesn't always remain the same.

🎤 Hosted by broadcast journalist, interviewer and university lecturer Chris Dabbs, Author Conversations is the long-form interview programme exploring books, ideas and the people behind them.
▶️ Watch Author Conversations on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@AuthorConversations
Watch on YouTube - tap here

🌐 Discover more:
https://www.author-conversations.com

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read,...]]>1749adangerousbikeride,authorconversations,authorinterview,bookinterview,chrisdabbs,crimefiction,cycling,detectivefiction,independentauthors,laterliferomance,mysteryfiction,olderprotagonists,reynoldconger,richardtracy,richardtracyseries,texasms150,thriller,thrillerauthorfalse133fullBaked Beans Are Cooked in the Tin?! Behind the Barcode - Paul Heskethhttps://www.author-conversations.com/paul-hesketh
Author and entrepreneur Paul Hesketh joins Chris Dabbs to uncover the extraordinary stories hiding behind some of the most ordinary products in our kitchens.

Paul’s book, Behind the Barcode, explores how familiar foods became the products and global brands we recognise today — and the conversation reveals just how strange that history can be.

We discover why baked beans are actually cooked inside the tin, how the secrets of tea production were taken out of China in an extraordinary episode of commercial espionage and why pepper and other spices once represented enormous commercial power.

Paul also tells the story of the BBC’s famous 1957 spaghetti-tree April Fool, explores the accidental development of Worcestershire sauce and explains how apparently simple innovations in packaging helped transform products such as crisps and instant noodles into global industries.
Then there’s the unlikely UK legal battle over whether a Jaffa Cake is really a cake or a biscuit — a distinction worth millions in VAT.

But behind the entertaining stories is a bigger question.

How did inventions, science, packaging, marketing, trade and big business turn everyday foods into multinational industries — and why are the people who originally developed some of these products often forgotten?

Drawing on more than four decades in business as well as his background in agriculture, Paul looks at the extraordinary journey food takes before it reaches our shelves and why understanding that journey may also change the way we think about sustainability and what we consume.

A fascinating conversation about the history, science, business and sheer ingenuity hidden behind the barcode.

IN THIS EPISODE OF AUTHOR CONVERSATIONS

Why Paul believes we know surprisingly little about the food we buy
The unexpected way baked beans are cooked
How commercial espionage helped spread tea around the world
Why pepper and spices once represented immense wealth and power
The BBC’s famous spaghetti-tree hoax
The strange origins of Worcestershire sauce
How instant noodles became a global phenomenon
Why packaging technology was crucial to the success of crisps
The forgotten inventors behind some of the world’s biggest food brands
Why McDonald’s is as much about property as burgers
The multimillion-pound question: is a Jaffa Cake a cake or a biscuit?
How science allows modern food to be preserved and distributed globally
Why bringing a new food product to market requires enormous investment
Sustainability, industrial food production and knowing where our food comes from
Paul’s forthcoming book, Beyond the Blueprint

Why Paul believes we know surprisingly little about the food we buy
The unexpected way baked beans are cooked
How commercial espionage helped spread tea around the world
Why pepper and spices once represented immense wealth and power
The BBC’s famous spaghetti-tree hoax
The strange origins of Worcestershire sauce
How instant noodles became a global phenomenon
Why packaging technology was crucial to the success of crisps
The forgotten inventors behind some of the world’s biggest food brands
Why McDonald’s is as much about property as burgers
The multimillion-pound question: is a Jaffa Cake a cake or a biscuit?
How science allows modern food to be preserved and distributed globally
Why bringing a new food product to market requires enormous investment
Sustainability, industrial food production and knowing where our food comes from
Paul’s forthcoming book, Beyond the Blueprint

FEATURED BOOK: Behind the Barcode — Paul Hesketh

What looks like an ordinary supermarket shelf is actually the end point of centuries of invention, science, trade, rivalry, marketing and human ingenuity.Paul Hesketh explores the stories behind familiar foods and explains how seemingly simple products became part of enormous global industries.

Author website: www.paulhesketh.com and www.author-conversations.com/paul-hesketh
Book:
Available through Amazon in print and Kindle formats.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its...]]>2042agriculture,authorconversations,authors,bakedbeans,behindthebarcode,chrisdabbs,entrepreneurship,everydayfood,foodbrands,foodbusiness,foodhistory,foodindustry,foodpackaging,foodproduction,foodscience,jaffacakes,paulhesketh,supermarkets,sustainability,teahistoryfalse132fullCan Synchronicity Help Us Heal? Mary Glesige Explainshttps://www.author-conversations.com/mary-glesige
In this edition of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks to Mary Glesige, author of Open the Gate: A Journey into Synchronistic Healing.

Mary explores the ideas behind her book and the role that synchronicity, awareness and personal insight can play in healing and transformation.

The conversation looks at the turning points that shape our lives, the unexpected connections that can alter our direction and the ways we make sense of experiences that seem to arrive at exactly the right moment.

Mary also reflects on the personal journey behind Open the Gate, what she means by synchronistic healing and why becoming more open to the patterns around us can change the way we understand ourselves, our experiences and the possibility of growth.

A thoughtful conversation about healing, synchronicity, spirituality, personal transformation and the search for meaning in life’s unexpected moment.

What if coincidence isn’t always coincidence?

Watch Author Conversations on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@AuthorConversations

More from Author Conversations
https://author-conversations.com
Chris Dabbs
https://chrisdabbs.online

Listen to more Author Conversations
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | iHeartRadio

Mary Glesige / Open the Gate
https://author-conversations.com/mary-glesige

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/75050550Thu, 10 Sep 2026 22:27:24 +0000Chris DabbsWhat if some of the moments we dismiss as coincidence are actually pointing us towards change? In this edition of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks to Mary Glesige, author of Open the Gate: A Journey into Synchronistic Healing. Mary explores...
In this edition of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks to Mary Glesige, author of Open the Gate: A Journey into Synchronistic Healing.

Mary explores the ideas behind her book and the role that synchronicity, awareness and personal insight can play in healing and transformation.

The conversation looks at the turning points that shape our lives, the unexpected connections that can alter our direction and the ways we make sense of experiences that seem to arrive at exactly the right moment.

Mary also reflects on the personal journey behind Open the Gate, what she means by synchronistic healing and why becoming more open to the patterns around us can change the way we understand ourselves, our experiences and the possibility of growth.

A thoughtful conversation about healing, synchronicity, spirituality, personal transformation and the search for meaning in life’s unexpected moment.

What if coincidence isn’t always coincidence?

Watch Author Conversations on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@AuthorConversations

More from Author Conversations
https://author-conversations.com
Chris Dabbs
https://chrisdabbs.online

Listen to more Author Conversations
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | iHeartRadio

Mary Glesige / Open the Gate
https://author-conversations.com/mary-glesige

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>2518authorconversations,authorinterview,bookinterview,chrisdabbs,healing,mary_glesige,openthegate,personalgrowth,personaltransformation,selfdiscovery,spiritualhealing,synchronicity,synchronistichealingfalse131fullThe Harvest Always Comes - Maree Deeley on Love, Life and Never Giving Uphttp://www.author-conversations.com/maree-deeleyMaree Deeley to talk about her novel The Harvest Always Comes – and I discover that there's a very personal story behind that title.

Maree grew up around farming and remembers her great-uncle facing difficult seasons with a simple conviction: “the harvest always comes”.

It was a phrase that stayed with her, one she later passed on to her own family and which eventually became the title of her first novel.
And in many ways, it fits the story perfectly.

The Harvest Always Comes follows Felicity and Richard, a couple whose youthful love has gradually given way to distance and routine. Then Mario enters Felicity's world and something begins to change.
I particularly enjoyed Maree's description of Mario during our conversation. She compares life to granite, with Mario becoming the mica or feldspar that suddenly makes it sparkle.
For Felicity, his arrival is an awakening.

But our conversation goes well beyond the novel.

Maree has spent many years working as a psychotherapist, clinical hypnotherapist, life coach and healer, so I wanted to know how that understanding of human behaviour finds its way into her characters and relationships.

We also talk about the very different ways readers respond to the same story. Maree tells me about an older reader for whom the novel brought back memories of Scotland and Aberdeen, while a much younger reader discovered something entirely different in it.

And Maree's creativity certainly doesn't stop with writing.

She painted the artwork for the book cover herself, she writes poetry and she's also a musician with nine albums already released and another on the way.

Then there's her next novel, Eyes of Innocence.
It's a very different and potentially much more challenging book. Maree tells me why she's tackling some difficult contemporary subjects, why she believes the story could eventually work on screen and why she has no intention of slowing down creatively.

Perhaps that's what stayed with me most from this conversation.

Maree talks about persistence, self-belief and continuing with something even when other people don't necessarily believe in what you're doing.

Sometimes you have to keep planting the seeds.

Because the harvest always comes.

WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW:
Watch on YouTube
MORE ABOUT MAREE DEELEY:
http://www.author-conversations.com/maree-deeley
Author Conversations is presented by broadcast journalist Chris Dabbs, bringing authors and their stories into professionally produced, in-depth conversations.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73992466Fri, 14 Aug 2026 16:14:47 +0000Chris DabbsIn this edition of Author Conversations, I meet author, artist, poet and therapist Maree Deeley to talk about her novel The Harvest Always Comes – and I discover that there's a very personal story behind that title. Maree grew up around farming and...Maree Deeley to talk about her novel The Harvest Always Comes – and I discover that there's a very personal story behind that title.

Maree grew up around farming and remembers her great-uncle facing difficult seasons with a simple conviction: “the harvest always comes”.

It was a phrase that stayed with her, one she later passed on to her own family and which eventually became the title of her first novel.
And in many ways, it fits the story perfectly.

The Harvest Always Comes follows Felicity and Richard, a couple whose youthful love has gradually given way to distance and routine. Then Mario enters Felicity's world and something begins to change.
I particularly enjoyed Maree's description of Mario during our conversation. She compares life to granite, with Mario becoming the mica or feldspar that suddenly makes it sparkle.
For Felicity, his arrival is an awakening.

But our conversation goes well beyond the novel.

Maree has spent many years working as a psychotherapist, clinical hypnotherapist, life coach and healer, so I wanted to know how that understanding of human behaviour finds its way into her characters and relationships.

We also talk about the very different ways readers respond to the same story. Maree tells me about an older reader for whom the novel brought back memories of Scotland and Aberdeen, while a much younger reader discovered something entirely different in it.

And Maree's creativity certainly doesn't stop with writing.

She painted the artwork for the book cover herself, she writes poetry and she's also a musician with nine albums already released and another on the way.

Then there's her next novel, Eyes of Innocence.
It's a very different and potentially much more challenging book. Maree tells me why she's tackling some difficult contemporary subjects, why she believes the story could eventually work on screen and why she has no intention of slowing down creatively.

Perhaps that's what stayed with me most from this conversation.

Maree talks about persistence, self-belief and continuing with something even when other people don't necessarily believe in what you're doing.

Sometimes you have to keep planting the seeds.

Because the harvest always comes.

WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW:
Watch on YouTube
MORE ABOUT MAREE DEELEY:
http://www.author-conversations.com/maree-deeley
Author Conversations is presented by broadcast journalist Chris Dabbs, bringing authors and their stories into professionally produced, in-depth conversations.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is...]]>1901author_conversations,author_interview,british_author,chris_dabbs,contemporary_fiction,creativity,eyes_of_innocence,fiction,human_behaviour,love_and_relationships,maree_deeley,norfolk,psychotherapy,relationship_fiction,scottish_highlands,second_chances,the_harvest_always_comes,writingfalse130fullTreasure's Location | Joel A. Robinson on Publishing His Debut Novel at 92https://www.author-conversations.com/joel-robinson
What begins as a discussion about an international historical thriller becomes a thoughtful conversation about perseverance, curiosity and the enduring power of storytelling.

Joel reflects on the real-life treasure story that inspired his novel, the historical research behind it and why he believes it's never too late to write the book you've always wanted to tell.

In this conversation

Publishing a first novel at 92
Life after the Korean War
The real treasure story behind the novel
History, mystery and writing fiction
Building suspense and believable characters
Advice for aspiring writers
Why it's never too late to follow a dream

Publishing a first novel at 92
Life after the Korean War
The real treasure story behind the novel
History, mystery and writing fiction
Building suspense and believable characters
Advice for aspiring writers
Why it's never too late to follow a dream

Featured Book Treasure's Location by Joel A. Robinson https://a.co/d/0iFDC14V

www.author-conversations.com/joel-robinson

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>2075author_conversations,author_interview,authors,books,chris_dabbs,debut_novel,historical_fiction,historical_thriller,joel_a_robinson,korean_war_veteran,mystery,storytelling,thriller,treasures_location,writingfalse129fullHungry for More: Discipline, Faith and Endurance | JD Tremblayhttps://www.author-conversations.com/jd-temblay
What separates genuine discipline from temporary motivation?

JD Tremblay joined the Canadian military at just 17 after growing up in northern Quebec, experiencing his parents’ divorce and being bullied during childhood.

The structure he encountered in military life would help shape an extraordinary journey through firefighting, mentorship, entrepreneurship and some of the most demanding endurance challenges in the world.

In this episode of Author Conversations, JD joins broadcast journalist Chris Dabbs to discuss the experiences behind his book, Hunger for More in Life: Conquer Mental Struggles, Defy Limitations, and Discover Purpose Through Epic Achievements.

JD explains why the military does not simply give someone discipline.
Instead, it provides structures and systems which can produce discipline when they are followed consistently.
He also reflects on completing the EpicDeca: ten Ironman-distance triathlons across ten consecutive days and six Hawaiian islands.

JD describes what happens when exhaustion strips away confidence, motivation and even your sense of identity — and why adjusting the plan is not the same as abandoning the mission.The conversation explores the importance of recovery, the dangers of comparing ourselves with carefully curated lives online and the need to distinguish between genuine ambition and the pressure to prove ourselves to others.

JD also discusses the Christian faith behind the Hungry Warrior Academy, drawing inspiration from the story of David and Goliath.
For JD, being a “hungry warrior” is not simply about physical strength. It means developing the courage, purpose and spiritual resilience to confront challenges despite fear.

This is a thoughtful conversation about childhood adversity, military service, mental endurance, faith, leadership and the continuing hunger to create a life of meaning.

Chris and JD discuss:
Joining the Canadian military at 17
• Growing up in northern Quebec
• Experiencing bullying as a child television performer
• How systems and structure create discipline
• The difference between motivation and commitment
• Training for extreme endurance events
• Completing ten Ironman-distance triathlons in ten days
• What happens mentally when the body wants to stop
• Why changing the plan does not mean abandoning the goal
• The importance of recovery and slowing down
• The dangers of social-media comparison
• Faith, courage and the story of David and Goliath
• The meaning behind the Hungry Warrior Academy
• Helping people develop physically, mentally and spiritually
• JD’s humanitarian work supporting children and communities

ABOUT JD TREMBLAYJD Tremblay is a Canadian military veteran, firefighter, integrated engineer, naturopathic practitioner, mentor and ultra-endurance athlete.He is one of only a small number of athletes to have completed the EpicDeca, consisting of ten Ironman-distance triathlons across ten consecutive days and six Hawaiian islands.

JD is the author of Hunger for More in Life, a book exploring mental resilience, ambitious goals, personal purpose and the lessons he has learned by pushing beyond perceived physical and psychological limits.He is also Director of High Performance and Mental Resilience Advisor at the Hungry Warrior Academy, where he helps Christian men develop stronger bodies, sharper minds, deeper faith and a renewed sense of purpose.FIND OUT MOREHungry Warrior Academy:
https://hungrywarrioracademy.com

Book:
Hunger for More in Life: Conquer Mental Struggles, Defy Limitations, and Discover Purpose Through Epic Achievements

Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs is a professionally produced broadcast interview programme featuring thoughtful, long-form conversations with authors from around the world.Presented by broadcast journalist, BBC and Times Radio newsreader and university journalism lecturer Chris Dabbs, the programme explores the experiences, ideas and personal stories behind each author’s work.

Discover more interviews at:https://author-conversations.com

Follow Author Conversations wherever you listen and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement to keep moving towards a difficult goal.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73163198Sat, 25 Jul 2026 05:01:45 +0000Chris DabbsCanadian military veteran, ultra-endurance athlete and author JD Tremblay joins Chris Dabbs to explore discipline, resilience, faith and what it takes to keep moving when the body and mind are telling you to stop. What separates genuine discipline...
What separates genuine discipline from temporary motivation?

JD Tremblay joined the Canadian military at just 17 after growing up in northern Quebec, experiencing his parents’ divorce and being bullied during childhood.

The structure he encountered in military life would help shape an extraordinary journey through firefighting, mentorship, entrepreneurship and some of the most demanding endurance challenges in the world.

In this episode of Author Conversations, JD joins broadcast journalist Chris Dabbs to discuss the experiences behind his book, Hunger for More in Life: Conquer Mental Struggles, Defy Limitations, and Discover Purpose Through Epic Achievements.

JD explains why the military does not simply give someone discipline.
Instead, it provides structures and systems which can produce discipline when they are followed consistently.
He also reflects on completing the EpicDeca: ten Ironman-distance triathlons across ten consecutive days and six Hawaiian islands.

JD describes what happens when exhaustion strips away confidence, motivation and even your sense of identity — and why adjusting the plan is not the same as abandoning the mission.The conversation explores the importance of recovery, the dangers of comparing ourselves with carefully curated lives online and the need to distinguish between genuine ambition and the pressure to prove ourselves to others.

JD also discusses the Christian faith behind the Hungry Warrior Academy, drawing inspiration from the story of David and Goliath.
For JD, being a “hungry warrior” is not simply about physical strength. It means developing the courage, purpose and spiritual resilience to confront challenges despite fear.

This is a thoughtful conversation about childhood adversity, military service, mental endurance, faith, leadership and the continuing hunger to create a life of meaning.

Chris and JD discuss:
Joining the Canadian military at 17
• Growing up in northern Quebec
• Experiencing bullying as a child television performer
• How systems and structure create discipline
• The difference between motivation and commitment
• Training for extreme endurance events
• Completing ten Ironman-distance triathlons in ten days
• What happens mentally when the body wants to stop
• Why changing the plan does not mean abandoning the goal
• The importance of recovery and slowing down
• The dangers of social-media comparison
• Faith, courage and the story of David and Goliath
• The meaning behind the Hungry Warrior Academy
• Helping people develop physically, mentally and spiritually
• JD’s humanitarian work supporting children and communities

ABOUT JD TREMBLAYJD Tremblay is a Canadian military veteran, firefighter, integrated engineer, naturopathic practitioner, mentor and ultra-endurance athlete.He is one of only a small number of athletes to have completed the EpicDeca, consisting of ten Ironman-distance triathlons across ten consecutive days and six Hawaiian islands.

JD is the author of Hunger for More in Life, a book exploring mental resilience, ambitious goals, personal purpose and the lessons he has learned by pushing beyond perceived physical and psychological limits.He is also Director of High Performance and Mental Resilience Advisor at the Hungry Warrior Academy, where he helps Christian men develop stronger bodies, sharper minds, deeper faith and a renewed sense of purpose.FIND OUT MOREHungry Warrior Academy:
https://hungrywarrioracademy.com

Book:2782author_conversations,canadian_military,chris_dabbs,christian_leadership,christian_men,discipline,endurance,epicdeca,faith,firefighter,hunger_for_more_in_life,hungry_warrior,hungry_warrior_academy,ironman_triathlon,jd_tremblay,mental_resilience,military_veteran,motivation,personal_development,ultra_endurancefalse128fullThe War on Both Sides | Keith Daniel Saunders Sr.https://www.author-conversations.com/keith-saunders"What if the greatest divide isn't between races—but between the assumptions we make about one another?"

After more than thirty years as a teacher, principal and community leader, Keith Daniel Saunders Sr. has dedicated his life to helping young people overcome barriers and realise their potential.

His memoir, Roosevelt to the Hamptons: The War on Both Sides, isn't a story about military conflict—it's a deeply personal exploration of identity, belonging and navigating a world where people are too often judged before they're understood.

In this thoughtful episode of Author Conversations, Keith reflects on growing up between Black and White communities, the discrimination he encountered during his career in education and why genuine leadership begins with empathy rather than division.

Drawing on decades of experience working with students and families, Keith explains why he chose to write his memoir, the lessons he's learned about resilience and why understanding another person's perspective is one of the most powerful tools we have.

Rather than assigning blame, this conversation challenges listeners to question assumptions, embrace self-awareness and recognise that lasting change starts with honest dialogue.

So, whether you're interested in memoirs, leadership, education, social issues or simply hearing an inspiring life story, Keith's message is ultimately one of hope: every community becomes stronger when we're prepared to listen to one another.

📖 Featured Book: Roosevelt to the Hamptons: The War on Both Sides

🌐 Episode Page: www.author-conversations.com/keith-saunders

IN THIS EPISODE
• Why Keith finally decided to write his memoir
• Growing up between two worlds • Identity, race and belonging
• The realities of working in education
• Leadership through empathy
• Challenging stereotypes and assumptions
• Helping young people succeed
• Why self-awareness changes everything
• Lessons from a lifetime in education
• Building bridges instead of barriers

CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction
01:18 Why Keith wrote Roosevelt to the Hamptons
04:42 Growing up between two worlds
09:05 Identity and belonging
14:31 Life as an educator and principal
20:14 Facing prejudice and misunderstanding
26:03 Leadership, empathy and listening
31:18 Why education changes lives
36:52 The message behind the memoir
42:11 What Keith hopes readers take away
46:35 Final reflections

You can now watch the interview on YouTube

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73067992Mon, 20 Jul 2026 14:04:11 +0000Chris Dabbs"What if the greatest divide isn't between races—but between the assumptions we make about one another?" After more than thirty years as a teacher, principal and community leader, Keith Daniel Saunders Sr. has dedicated his life to helping young..."What if the greatest divide isn't between races—but between the assumptions we make about one another?"

After more than thirty years as a teacher, principal and community leader, Keith Daniel Saunders Sr. has dedicated his life to helping young people overcome barriers and realise their potential.

His memoir, Roosevelt to the Hamptons: The War on Both Sides, isn't a story about military conflict—it's a deeply personal exploration of identity, belonging and navigating a world where people are too often judged before they're understood.

In this thoughtful episode of Author Conversations, Keith reflects on growing up between Black and White communities, the discrimination he encountered during his career in education and why genuine leadership begins with empathy rather than division.

Drawing on decades of experience working with students and families, Keith explains why he chose to write his memoir, the lessons he's learned about resilience and why understanding another person's perspective is one of the most powerful tools we have.

Rather than assigning blame, this conversation challenges listeners to question assumptions, embrace self-awareness and recognise that lasting change starts with honest dialogue.

So, whether you're interested in memoirs, leadership, education, social issues or simply hearing an inspiring life story, Keith's message is ultimately one of hope: every community becomes stronger when we're prepared to listen to one another.

📖 Featured Book: Roosevelt to the Hamptons: The War on Both Sides

🌐 Episode Page: www.author-conversations.com/keith-saunders

IN THIS EPISODE
• Why Keith finally decided to write his memoir
• Growing up between two worlds • Identity, race and belonging
• The realities of working in education
• Leadership through empathy
• Challenging stereotypes and assumptions
• Helping young people succeed
• Why self-awareness changes everything
• Lessons from a lifetime in education
• Building bridges instead of barriers

CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction
01:18 Why Keith wrote Roosevelt to the Hamptons
04:42 Growing up between two worlds
09:05 Identity and belonging
14:31 Life as an educator and principal
20:14 Facing prejudice and misunderstanding
26:03 Leadership, empathy and listening
31:18 Why education changes lives
36:52 The message behind the memoir
42:11 What Keith hopes readers take away
46:35 Final reflections

You can now watch the interview on YouTube

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television...]]>1476author_conversations,author_interview,belonging,chris_dabbs,diversity,education,empathy,identity,inspirational_story,keith_daniel_saunders_sr,leadership,memoir,personal_growth,principal,race,roosevelt_to_the_hamptons,social_issues,teacher,the_war_on_both_sidesfalse127fullFinding Yourself Before Finding Love | Becky Larson Bloomhttps://www.author-conversations.com/becky-larson-bloom"Sometimes the biggest adventure isn't falling in love—it's learning to believe in yourself."

Becky Larson Bloom didn't publish her first novel until later in life, after years of encouragement from family and friends who believed she had a story to tell.

In this uplifting episode of Author Conversations, Becky discusses the inspiration behind her debut novel, New Beginnings, and explains why it's about far more than romance.

At its heart, the book explores identity, vulnerability and the courage to embrace life's unexpected opportunities.
Becky reveals how personal experiences, dreams and regrets quietly shaped her fictional characters, and why genuine love should help us become better versions of ourselves rather than rescue us from ourselves.

She also reflects on finally becoming a published author in her late sixties, fulfilling a promise inspired by her late mother-in-law, and why it's never too late to pursue a lifelong dream.

Whether you're a fan of contemporary romance, women's fiction or simply looking for encouragement to begin a new chapter in your own life, this conversation is a reminder that some of life's most meaningful journeys start much later than we expect.

📖 Featured Book New Beginnings by Becky Larson Bloom
🌐 Episode page:
https://www.author-conversations.com/becky-larson-bloom
📚 Book:
https://amzn.eu/d/02k3ppzl
Inspiration:
Read our blog post on writing your first novel in your 60s: Blog link

In this episode
• Publishing a first novel later in life
• The inspiration behind New Beginnings
• Finding yourself before finding love
• Writing characters with vulnerability and hope
• Personal experiences that shaped the story
• Why self-discovery matters as much as romance
• Following lifelong dreams at any age
• Turning encouragement into action
• The realities of writing a debut novel
• Why it's never too late to begin again

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction
01:14 Why Becky finally wrote her first novel
04:03 Publishing later in life
06:28 The inspiration behind New Beginnings
10:41 Finding yourself before finding love
15:02 How personal experiences shaped the story
19:34 Writing believable relationships
23:18 Trust, vulnerability and emotional growth
27:56 Why new beginnings can happen at any age
32:12 The challenges of writing a debut novel
36:21 What Becky hopes readers take away
39:02 Advice for aspiring writers
41:08 Where to find New Beginnings

Thanks for your support!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73043918Sat, 18 Jul 2026 14:19:23 +0000Chris Dabbs"Sometimes the biggest adventure isn't falling in love—it's learning to believe in yourself." Becky Larson Bloom didn't publish her first novel until later in life, after years of encouragement from family and friends who believed she had a story to..."Sometimes the biggest adventure isn't falling in love—it's learning to believe in yourself."

Becky Larson Bloom didn't publish her first novel until later in life, after years of encouragement from family and friends who believed she had a story to tell.

In this uplifting episode of Author Conversations, Becky discusses the inspiration behind her debut novel, New Beginnings, and explains why it's about far more than romance.

At its heart, the book explores identity, vulnerability and the courage to embrace life's unexpected opportunities.
Becky reveals how personal experiences, dreams and regrets quietly shaped her fictional characters, and why genuine love should help us become better versions of ourselves rather than rescue us from ourselves.

She also reflects on finally becoming a published author in her late sixties, fulfilling a promise inspired by her late mother-in-law, and why it's never too late to pursue a lifelong dream.

Whether you're a fan of contemporary romance, women's fiction or simply looking for encouragement to begin a new chapter in your own life, this conversation is a reminder that some of life's most meaningful journeys start much later than we expect.

📖 Featured Book New Beginnings by Becky Larson Bloom
🌐 Episode page:
https://www.author-conversations.com/becky-larson-bloom
📚 Book:
https://amzn.eu/d/02k3ppzl
Inspiration:
Read our blog post on writing your first novel in your 60s: Blog link

In this episode
• Publishing a first novel later in life
• The inspiration behind New Beginnings
• Finding yourself before finding love
• Writing characters with vulnerability and hope
• Personal experiences that shaped the story
• Why self-discovery matters as much as romance
• Following lifelong dreams at any age
• Turning encouragement into action
• The realities of writing a debut novel
• Why it's never too late to begin again

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction
01:14 Why Becky finally wrote her first novel
04:03 Publishing later in life
06:28 The inspiration behind New Beginnings
10:41 Finding yourself before finding love
15:02 How personal experiences shaped the story
19:34 Writing believable relationships
23:18 Trust, vulnerability and emotional growth
27:56 Why new beginnings can happen at any age
32:12 The challenges of writing a debut novel
36:21 What Becky hopes readers take away
39:02 Advice for aspiring writers
41:08 Where to find New Beginnings

Thanks for your support!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is...]]>1316author_conversations,becky_larson_bloom,chris_dabbs,contemporary_romance,debut_author,hope,identity,inspiration,late_life_success,love,new_beginnings,personal_growth,relationships,romance,self_discovery,womens_fiction,writingfalse126fullShe Lost Everything in an Accident, Then Built Her Life Backhttps://www.author-conversations.com/donna-valentinoDoctors gave Donna Valentino just a 40% chance of survival.

What followed was years of rehabilitation, relearning basic life skills and rebuilding an entirely new life.

In this powerful episode of Author Conversations, Donna shares the extraordinary story behind her books Headstrong and Heartstrong, beginning with the catastrophic ATV accident that left her with a severe traumatic brain injury and continuing through one of the most remarkable recovery journeys you'll hear.

Doctors gave Donna Valentino just a 40% chance of survival after a devastating traumatic brain injury. In this inspiring conversation, she shares how she rebuilt her life, found new purpose and turned unimaginable adversity into hope for others.

Donna describes waking from a medically induced coma, struggling with memory loss, hallucinations and confusion, and facing the daunting task of learning how to swallow, walk and reclaim her independence.

But this conversation goes beyond survival.

Together we explore identity, resilience, purpose and hope.

Donna explains how the experience transformed her outlook on life, why recovery is about far more than physical healing, and how helping other traumatic brain injury survivors became her life's mission.
Rather than allowing tragedy to define her, she chose to use it to encourage others facing life-changing illness, injury and adversity.

Whether you're navigating your own recovery, supporting someone you love or simply looking for an inspiring story of human resilience, Donna's journey is a powerful reminder that hope can survive even the darkest circumstances.

The conversation is positioned as much around identity, purpose and rebuilding a life as it is around the medical realities of traumatic brain injury.

In this episode
• Surviving a catastrophic traumatic brain injury
• Living with a 40% chance of survival
• Waking from a medically induced coma
• Hallucinations, memory loss and rehabilitation
• Relearning everyday life after brain injury
• The emotional impact on family relationships
• Finding hope during recovery
• Why gratitude became stronger than bitterness
• Supporting other brain injury survivors
• Turning unimaginable trauma into purpose
• The stories behind Headstrong and Heartstrong
📖 Books featured:
Headstrong: Surviving a Traumatic Brain Injury Without Losing My Mind
Heartstrong: Overcome Obstacles and Live Life to the Fullest

🎙️ Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs brings you inspiring conversations with authors about the stories behind their books—and the lives behind those stories.

00:00 Introduction
01:08 The ATV accident that changed everything
03:18 A 40% chance of survival
05:41 Waking from a medically induced coma
08:02 Relearning how to swallow, walk and live again
11:06 Memory loss, hallucinations and brain injury
14:20 Losing your identity after trauma
17:43 How Donna's family coped
20:56 The turning point in recovery
24:18 Finding purpose after surviving
27:41 Why gratitude replaced bitterness
31:09 Supporting other traumatic brain injury survivors
34:27 Headstrong vs Heartstrong
37:12 Advice for anyone facing life-changing adversity
40:03 One message Donna hopes readers never forget
41:12 Where to find Donna's books

https://donnavalentinobooks.com/https://donnavalentinobooks.com/

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73015770Thu, 16 Jul 2026 16:54:50 +0000Chris DabbsDoctors gave Donna Valentino just a 40% chance of survival. What followed was years of rehabilitation, relearning basic life skills and rebuilding an entirely new life. In this powerful episode of Author Conversations, Donna shares the...Doctors gave Donna Valentino just a 40% chance of survival.

What followed was years of rehabilitation, relearning basic life skills and rebuilding an entirely new life.

In this powerful episode of Author Conversations, Donna shares the extraordinary story behind her books Headstrong and Heartstrong, beginning with the catastrophic ATV accident that left her with a severe traumatic brain injury and continuing through one of the most remarkable recovery journeys you'll hear.

Doctors gave Donna Valentino just a 40% chance of survival after a devastating traumatic brain injury. In this inspiring conversation, she shares how she rebuilt her life, found new purpose and turned unimaginable adversity into hope for others.

Donna describes waking from a medically induced coma, struggling with memory loss, hallucinations and confusion, and facing the daunting task of learning how to swallow, walk and reclaim her independence.

But this conversation goes beyond survival.

Together we explore identity, resilience, purpose and hope.

Donna explains how the experience transformed her outlook on life, why recovery is about far more than physical healing, and how helping other traumatic brain injury survivors became her life's mission.
Rather than allowing tragedy to define her, she chose to use it to encourage others facing life-changing illness, injury and adversity.

Whether you're navigating your own recovery, supporting someone you love or simply looking for an inspiring story of human resilience, Donna's journey is a powerful reminder that hope can survive even the darkest circumstances.

The conversation is positioned as much around identity, purpose and rebuilding a life as it is around the medical realities of traumatic brain injury.

In this episode
• Surviving a catastrophic traumatic brain injury
• Living with a 40% chance of survival
• Waking from a medically induced coma
• Hallucinations, memory loss and rehabilitation
• Relearning everyday life after brain injury
• The emotional impact on family relationships
• Finding hope during recovery
• Why gratitude became stronger than bitterness
• Supporting other brain injury survivors
• Turning unimaginable trauma into purpose
• The stories behind Headstrong and Heartstrong
📖 Books featured:
Headstrong: Surviving a Traumatic Brain Injury Without Losing My Mind
Heartstrong: Overcome Obstacles and Live Life to the Fullest

🎙️ Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs brings you inspiring conversations with authors about the stories behind their books—and the lives behind those stories.

00:00 Introduction
01:08 The ATV accident that changed everything
03:18 A 40% chance of survival
05:41 Waking from a medically induced coma
08:02 Relearning how to swallow, walk and live again
11:06 Memory loss, hallucinations and brain injury
14:20 Losing your identity after trauma
17:43 How Donna's family coped
20:56 The turning point in recovery
24:18 Finding purpose after surviving
27:41 Why gratitude replaced bitterness
31:09 Supporting other traumatic brain injury survivors
34:27 Headstrong vs Heartstrong
37:12 Advice for anyone facing life-changing adversity
40:03 One message Donna hopes readers never forget
41:12 Where to find Donna's books

https://donnavalentinobooks.com/https://donnavalentinobooks.com/

Become a supporter of this podcast: 2061author_conversations,author_interview,brain_injury,chris_dabbs,donna_valentino,headstrong,heartstrong,hope,inspiration,memoir,overcoming_adversity,personal_growth,purpose,recovery,rehabilitation,resilience,survival,tbi,traumatic_brain_injuryfalse125fullNobody Believed Her: Christa Jan Ryan on Childhood Trauma, Addiction & Survivalhttps://www.author-conversations.com/christa-jan-ryan“My parents held a very good persona. I continued to try to impress upon the authorities that what they saw on the outside was not what was going on on the inside.
Nobody bought it. Nobody believed it.”
Christa Jan Ryan

What happens when a child tells adults that home is unsafe—and nobody believes her?

Christa Jan Ryan describes growing up in a respected family while trying unsuccessfully to convince adults that she and her siblings were not safe at home. She explores the childhood trauma behind her addiction, the long road to recovery and why being believed is essential to healing.

Her mother was a high-profile teacher, her parents were known within the community, and Christa says her attempts to explain what was happening at home were dismissed.

In this deeply personal conversation, Christa describes growing up amid addiction, domestic violence and fear, and how those early experiences shaped her own dependence on alcohol and drugs.

She recalls trying alcohol at a very young age and feeling, for the first time, relief from the anxiety surrounding her.
By thirteen, she says she was already unable to get through the day without drinking or taking drugs.

But this is also a story of recovery, faith and reclaiming a voice that had been ignored.

Christa explains why treating addiction requires understanding the trauma that propelled it, why survivors need their experiences to be validated, and how her work in recovery and prison ministry transformed her understanding of healing, judgement and human behaviour.

Her memoir, Silent Screams from the Hamptons: Trouble in Paradise, reveals the pain that can exist behind seemingly perfect families and prestigious communities. In This Episode

What happens when a child is not believed
The contrast between a respected public image and life behind closed doors
Growing up around addiction and domestic violence
Why Christa began drinking at five years old
How childhood anxiety shaped her later addiction
The trauma underlying destructive behaviour
Losing faith after witnessing hypocrisy
Why survivors need validation
Lessons from twenty-two years working in recovery
How ten years of prison ministry changed her
Recovery, faith and learning to live differently

What happens when a child is not believed
The contrast between a respected public image and life behind closed doors
Growing up around addiction and domestic violence
Why Christa began drinking at five years old
How childhood anxiety shaped her later addiction
The trauma underlying destructive behaviour
Losing faith after witnessing hypocrisy
Why survivors need validation
Lessons from twenty-two years working in recovery
How ten years of prison ministry changed her
Recovery, faith and learning to live differently

A quick note before you listen:
You'll notice my audio isn't up to the usual Author Conversations standard due to an unforeseen technical issue during recording.

Thankfully, Christa's audio is clear throughout.

We considered not publishing the interview, but her story of childhood trauma, recovery and resilience is simply too important to leave unheard.
Thanks for your patience—I hope you'll forgive the technical hiccup and find Christa's extraordinary story as moving and inspiring as I did.

CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction
02:32 Understanding the trauma behind addiction
03:37 Growing up in a highly traumatic home
04:35 Domestic violence, fear and the absence of safety
06:15 Drinking alcohol at five years old
07:09 How childhood trauma shaped addictive behaviour
08:33 The respectable family image that concealed the truth
08:51 “Nobody bought it. Nobody believed it”
09:02 Trying to tell adults: “We’re not safe at home”
12:14 Faith, protection and childhood hypocrisy
26:29 Why survivors need validation
26:45 Ten years working in prison ministry
32:35 Breaking patterns and refusing to be ruled by triggers

Become a supporter of this podcast: 3164addiction_recovery,alcoholism,author_conversations,author_interview,childhood_abuse,childhood_trauma,christa_jan_ryan,domestic_violence,drug_addiction,faith,family_trauma,memoir,mental_health,prison_ministry,recovery,resilience,survival,trauma_healingfalse124fullHe Became an Author at 63 — “It’s Never Too Late” | Ray Denyerhttps://www.author-conversations.com/ray-denyer
After decades of making up stories for his family, encouragement from his 14 grandchildren finally persuaded Ray to start writing them down.

The result was Algernon Breadstick: The Hapless Knight, a warm, funny fantasy adventure about an unlikely hero who fails, gets lost, makes mistakes — and keeps going.

In this episode of Author Conversations, Ray joins Chris Dabbs to talk about becoming an author later in life, the family storytelling tradition that brought Algernon Breadstick to life and why failure does not have to mean defeat.

Algernon may be a hapless knight, but every setback teaches him something.
His confidence grows, his mistakes become lessons and the mythical creatures he is supposed to defeat often become his friends instead.

Ray also explains why kindness matters more to him than conflict, why there are no real winners when people fight and how Algernon has become part of the legacy he hopes to leave for his children and grandchildren.

In this conversation:
⚔️ Why Ray finally became an author in his sixties
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 How his 14 grandchildren encouraged him to start writing
📖 Where the wonderfully unlikely name Algernon Breadstick came from
🏰 Why failure is central to Algernon’s journey
🐉 Why monsters are not always the enemy
🧭 The humour behind Algernon’s disastrous sense of direction
❤️ Why kindness can be more powerful than conflict
💪 The importance of learning from mistakes and never giving up
🌟 Ray’s message for anyone who thinks they have left it too late
👑 The legacy he hopes Algernon Breadstick will leave for his family “While we’ve still got breath, we’ve still got a chance.”

📚 Featured book: Algernon Breadstick: The Hapless Knight by Ray Denyer

🌐 Find out more about Ray: raydenyerauthor.com

🎙️ Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs — conversations with authors about the stories behind their books and the lives behind the stories.

Watch on YouTube

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72972670Tue, 14 Jul 2026 19:18:18 +0000Chris DabbsIs it ever too late to pursue the dream you kept putting off? Ray Denyer became an author in his sixties — and his message is simple: never give up. After decades of making up stories for his family, encouragement from his 14 grandchildren finally...
After decades of making up stories for his family, encouragement from his 14 grandchildren finally persuaded Ray to start writing them down.

The result was Algernon Breadstick: The Hapless Knight, a warm, funny fantasy adventure about an unlikely hero who fails, gets lost, makes mistakes — and keeps going.

In this episode of Author Conversations, Ray joins Chris Dabbs to talk about becoming an author later in life, the family storytelling tradition that brought Algernon Breadstick to life and why failure does not have to mean defeat.

Algernon may be a hapless knight, but every setback teaches him something.
His confidence grows, his mistakes become lessons and the mythical creatures he is supposed to defeat often become his friends instead.

Ray also explains why kindness matters more to him than conflict, why there are no real winners when people fight and how Algernon has become part of the legacy he hopes to leave for his children and grandchildren.

In this conversation:
⚔️ Why Ray finally became an author in his sixties
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 How his 14 grandchildren encouraged him to start writing
📖 Where the wonderfully unlikely name Algernon Breadstick came from
🏰 Why failure is central to Algernon’s journey
🐉 Why monsters are not always the enemy
🧭 The humour behind Algernon’s disastrous sense of direction
❤️ Why kindness can be more powerful than conflict
💪 The importance of learning from mistakes and never giving up
🌟 Ray’s message for anyone who thinks they have left it too late
👑 The legacy he hopes Algernon Breadstick will leave for his family “While we’ve still got breath, we’ve still got a chance.”

📚 Featured book: Algernon Breadstick: The Hapless Knight by Ray Denyer

🌐 Find out more about Ray: raydenyerauthor.com

🎙️ Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs — conversations with authors about the stories behind their books and the lives behind the stories.

Watch on YouTube

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to...]]>1412false123fullShe Turned Heartbreak, Addiction & Recovery Into Powerful Poetry with Pamela Wallacehttps://www.author-conversations.com/pamela-wallace"Sometimes the most powerful memoir isn't written in chapters—it's written one poem at a time."

What if the most difficult chapters of your life became your greatest source of strength?

In this moving episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs welcomes poet Pamela Wallace, whose collection You Go Girl Poetry transforms decades of love, heartbreak, motherhood, addiction, recovery, humour and resilience into deeply personal poetry.

Rather than writing a traditional memoir, Pamela chose verse to tell her story—capturing the moments that shaped her life with honesty, vulnerability and surprising humour.

During the conversation, Pamela shares the remarkable story of how a teacher accused her of copying the very first poem she ever wrote, explains why poetry became her way of making sense of life's biggest challenges and reads several of her favourite poems aloud.

Whether you're a lifelong poetry lover or someone who simply enjoys hearing remarkable life stories, this conversation is a powerful reminder that healing often begins with finding your own voice.

📚 In this episode we discuss:
• Why Pamela chose poetry instead of writing a memoir
• The teacher who almost silenced her creativity
• Love, failed marriages and life's unexpected turns
• Motherhood, addiction and recovery
• Finding humour in difficult moments
• Why writing became part of her healing journey
• Pamela reads several of her favourite poems
• The message she hopes every reader takes away

👤 About Pamela Wallace Pamela Wallace describes herself as "a Midwestern gal" whose journey has taken her from the red dirt of Arizona to the white sands of Florida's Gulf Coast.
Through You Go Girl Poetry, she invites readers into a lifetime of experiences—celebrating resilience, self-discovery and the courage to keep moving forward despite life's setbacks.

📖 Featured Book You Go Girl Poetry

🔗 Links

📚 Buy the book:
On Amazon

👤 Pamela's Amazon Author Page:
Amazon

🌐 Episode page:
Author Conversations website

🎥 Watch on YouTube:
YouTube

🎙️ Author Conversations playlist:
YouTube

00:00 Introduction
01:00 Meet Pamela Wallace
03:20 Growing Up and Finding Poetry
07:15 The Teacher Who Accused Her of Cheating
12:40 Why Poetry Instead of a Memoir?
18:55 Love, Marriage and Reinvention
27:10 Addiction, Recovery and Healing
37:45 Pamela Reads Her Poetry
48:20 Finding Hope Through Writing
57:30 Advice for Anyone Starting Again
1:04:10 Final Thoughts

You Go Girl Poetry reminds us that life's hardest experiences don't have to define us.

Through honesty, humour and beautifully crafted verse, Pamela Wallace demonstrates that even heartbreak and failure can become something meaningful—and perhaps even something that helps others heal too.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72871502Wed, 08 Jul 2026 19:03:28 +0000Chris Dabbs"Sometimes the most powerful memoir isn't written in chapters—it's written one poem at a time." What if the most difficult chapters of your life became your greatest source of strength? In this moving episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs..."Sometimes the most powerful memoir isn't written in chapters—it's written one poem at a time."

What if the most difficult chapters of your life became your greatest source of strength?

In this moving episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs welcomes poet Pamela Wallace, whose collection You Go Girl Poetry transforms decades of love, heartbreak, motherhood, addiction, recovery, humour and resilience into deeply personal poetry.

Rather than writing a traditional memoir, Pamela chose verse to tell her story—capturing the moments that shaped her life with honesty, vulnerability and surprising humour.

During the conversation, Pamela shares the remarkable story of how a teacher accused her of copying the very first poem she ever wrote, explains why poetry became her way of making sense of life's biggest challenges and reads several of her favourite poems aloud.

Whether you're a lifelong poetry lover or someone who simply enjoys hearing remarkable life stories, this conversation is a powerful reminder that healing often begins with finding your own voice.

📚 In this episode we discuss:
• Why Pamela chose poetry instead of writing a memoir
• The teacher who almost silenced her creativity
• Love, failed marriages and life's unexpected turns
• Motherhood, addiction and recovery
• Finding humour in difficult moments
• Why writing became part of her healing journey
• Pamela reads several of her favourite poems
• The message she hopes every reader takes away

👤 About Pamela Wallace Pamela Wallace describes herself as "a Midwestern gal" whose journey has taken her from the red dirt of Arizona to the white sands of Florida's Gulf Coast.
Through You Go Girl Poetry, she invites readers into a lifetime of experiences—celebrating resilience, self-discovery and the courage to keep moving forward despite life's setbacks.

📖 Featured Book You Go Girl Poetry

🔗 Links

📚 Buy the book:
On Amazon

👤 Pamela's Amazon Author Page:
Amazon

🌐 Episode page:
Author Conversations website

🎥 Watch on YouTube:
YouTube

🎙️ Author Conversations playlist:
YouTube

00:00 Introduction
01:00 Meet Pamela Wallace
03:20 Growing Up and Finding Poetry
07:15 The Teacher Who Accused Her of Cheating
12:40 Why Poetry Instead of a Memoir?
18:55 Love, Marriage and Reinvention
27:10 Addiction, Recovery and Healing
37:45 Pamela Reads Her Poetry
48:20 Finding Hope Through Writing
57:30 Advice for Anyone Starting Again
1:04:10 Final Thoughts

You Go Girl Poetry reminds us that life's hardest experiences don't have to define us.

Through honesty, humour and beautifully crafted verse, Pamela Wallace demonstrates that even heartbreak and failure can become something meaningful—and perhaps even something that helps others heal too.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations,...]]>1845author_conversations,author_interview,author_podcast,autobiography,book_podcast,chris_dabbs,contemporary_poetry,female_author,inspirational_poetry,memoir,memoir_in_verse,pamela_wallace,poet,poetry,poetry_collection,poetry_reading,spoken_word,women_authors,womens_poetry,you_go_girl_poetryfalse122fullWhy Smart People Keep Choosing the Wrong Partner - Dr René Vázquez del Vallehttps://www.author-conversations.com/rene-vazquez“Successful relationships happen when your head, your heart and your physical connection are all moving in the same direction.”

Why do some relationships thrive while others seem destined to fail?

According to psychotherapist Dr René Vázquez del Valle, lasting relationships aren’t built on chemistry alone.
They depend on something far deeper: the alignment of the head, the heart and the physical connection.

Drawing on more than 30 years of clinical experience, René explains why so many intelligent, successful people repeatedly choose the wrong partners, how childhood experiences shape adult relationships, and why attraction alone is rarely enough to sustain love.

Whether you’re single, dating or have been married for decades, this conversation offers practical insights that could completely change the way you think about compatibility.

📚 Book: Head, Heart, Crotch Connections: How Not to Fail In Search of Your Perfect Union

In this episode:
❤️ Why relationships really fail
🧠 The three connections every lasting relationship needs
💔 Why attraction can be misleading
👶 How childhood shapes adult relationships
💬 The communication mistakes couples repeatedly make
❤️‍🔥 Can compatibility actually be learned?
📖 Lessons from decades as a psychotherapist

About the Guest Dr René Vázquez del Valle is a psychotherapist, educator and former clinical director with more than three decades of experience helping individuals and couples build healthier relationships.

🎧 Watch more Author Conversations YouTube

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72844101Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:36:35 +0000Chris Dabbs“Successful relationships happen when your head, your heart and your physical connection are all moving in the same direction.” Why do some relationships thrive while others seem destined to fail? According to psychotherapist Dr René Vázquez del...“Successful relationships happen when your head, your heart and your physical connection are all moving in the same direction.”

Why do some relationships thrive while others seem destined to fail?

According to psychotherapist Dr René Vázquez del Valle, lasting relationships aren’t built on chemistry alone.
They depend on something far deeper: the alignment of the head, the heart and the physical connection.

Drawing on more than 30 years of clinical experience, René explains why so many intelligent, successful people repeatedly choose the wrong partners, how childhood experiences shape adult relationships, and why attraction alone is rarely enough to sustain love.

Whether you’re single, dating or have been married for decades, this conversation offers practical insights that could completely change the way you think about compatibility.

📚 Book: Head, Heart, Crotch Connections: How Not to Fail In Search of Your Perfect Union

In this episode:
❤️ Why relationships really fail
🧠 The three connections every lasting relationship needs
💔 Why attraction can be misleading
👶 How childhood shapes adult relationships
💬 The communication mistakes couples repeatedly make
❤️‍🔥 Can compatibility actually be learned?
📖 Lessons from decades as a psychotherapist

About the Guest Dr René Vázquez del Valle is a psychotherapist, educator and former clinical director with more than three decades of experience helping individuals and couples build healthier relationships.

🎧 Watch more Author Conversations YouTube

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>2328advice,author,chris_dabbs,communication,compatibility,couples,dating,development,emotional,health,intelligence,interview,love,marriage,mental,psychology,psychotherapy,relationships,rene_vazquez,selffalse121fullThe Crooked Dog: How One Rescue Dachshund Inspired a Children’s Book Series | Joanne Stubenberghttps://www.author-conversations.com/joanne-stubenberg-crooked-dog“My main goal is for children just to be their best person… loving their animals, loving their families. It’s very important to me that children are happy and loved.”
Joanne Stubenberg

What can one rescued little dachshund teach children about kindness, bullying, compassion and responsibility?

In this heartwarming episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs is joined by children’s author and illustrator Joanne Stubenberg, creator of The Crooked Dog series.

Inspired by her real-life rescue dachshund, Jojo, Joanne shares the remarkable true story behind the books—and explains why stories about animals can often reach children’s hearts more effectively than lectures ever can.

From rescuing an abandoned dog and helping him recover from a devastating spinal injury, to creating books that gently teach empathy, responsibility and friendship, Joanne reveals how becoming a grandmother inspired an entirely new chapter in her life after nearly a life-long-career in banking.

Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, teacher, pet lover or simply someone who believes kindness matters, this conversation is filled with warmth, wisdom and hope.

Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_B3Qg6ox9q8 - Due to an intermittent internet connection during recording, Joanne’s video occasionally freezes briefly. Her audio remains clear throughout, and we felt the conversation was too valuable not to share. Thank you for your understanding.

🎧 Official Author Conversations Podcast Playlist: HERE

Official Podcast Page: https://www.author-conversations.com/joanne-stubenberg-crooked-dog

📚 In this episode we discuss: • The true story behind Jojo, the rescued dachshund who inspired the series • Why animals can teach children empathy better than adults sometimes can • Helping children understand bullying through storytelling • The lifelong responsibility of owning a pet • The emotional reality of losing beloved animals • Becoming a first-time author after 45 years in banking • Why becoming a grandmother changed Joanne’s life forever • Writing and illustrating children’s books • How children around the world—even in different languages—have connected with Jojo’s story • What’s coming next in The Crooked Dog series

🔗 Connect with Joanne 🌐 Website: https://thecrookeddogseries.com

📚 Books:

The Crooked Dog
The Crooked Dog Goes to a Farm

The Crooked Dog
The Crooked Dog Goes to a Farm

00:00 Welcome & Introducing Joanne Stubenberg
00:42 Meet Jojo the Rescue Dachshund
02:46 The True Story Behind The Crooked Dog
04:46 Teaching Children About Bullying 0
6:21 Why Pets Help Children Grow
07:42 From Banking to Children's Author
09:02 Jojo's Rescue and Recovery
11:14 The Responsibility of Pet Ownership
14:17 Writing Gentle Stories with Big Lessons
15:09 Why The Crooked Dog Goes to a Farm
17:31 Using Animals to Teach Kindness
18:06 Writing and Illustrating the Books
19:13 Children's Reactions to Jojo
21:24 Family, Hawaii and Life in Bali
23:25 What's Next for The Crooked Dog Series?
24:03 Joanne's Message for Every Child 25:57
Where to Find Joanne's Books
27:13 Thanks for Watching

Become a...]]>1664animal_stories,author_conversations,bullying,childrens_author,childrens_books,chris_dabbs,dachshund,dog_stories,empathy,family_reading,friendship,grandparenting,joanne_stubenberg,kindness,pet_responsibility,picture_books,rescue_dog,the_crooked_dog,the_crooked_dog_goes_to_a_farmfalse120fullGhost Ships, Secret Experiments and the Mystery of Do Not Open | David Dyehttps://youtu.be/MSoBbOv3Z2s
📡 A final Morse code message: "The lid has been opened."

🎙️ Author Conversations with David Dye Do Not Open: Ghost Ships, Hidden History and the Mystery That Refuses to Die

What if one of the world’s most chilling maritime mysteries was only the beginning?

In this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs sits down with author David Dye to explore Do Not Open, a historical supernatural thriller inspired by the legendary ghost ship mystery of the Ourang Medan.

⚓ A drifting vessel discovered at sea.
😱 A crew found dead, frozen in terror.
📡 A final Morse code message:

“The lid has been opened.” David reveals how real historical events, wartime conspiracies, mythology and unexplained mysteries became woven together into a story that blurs the line between fact and fiction.

📚 In this conversation
🔎 The true mystery of the Ourang Medan ghost ship 🏺
The origins of the mysterious amulet at the heart of the novel
⚔️ Nazi occult research and wartime secrets
🧪 The disturbing history of Unit 731
🕵️ The enduring mystery of the Somerton Man
✈️ Research trips across Europe and America
🎬 Why readers keep telling David this should become a movie
📖 How a retired police officer became a novelist

💬 Memorable Moment “I wanted readers to wonder how much of this was real.”

Throughout the discussion, David explains how he carefully blended documented history, real people and famous unsolved mysteries with supernatural fiction to create a thriller that feels unsettlingly plausible.
📖 About the Book Do Not Open follows a modern investigation into one of history’s most infamous ghost ship legends. As hidden records and classified files emerge, the trail leads through ancient mythology, wartime experiments, secret organisations and a mysterious amulet capable of unleashing either despair or hope.
🌐 Find David Dye Website: David's website

Buy the book: Do Not Open by David Dye

🎧 Listen to More Author Conversations Official Author Conversations podcast page: YouTube

⭐ Enjoyed the episode?
Please follow, rate and share Author Conversations. Every review helps more readers discover great authors and fascinating stories.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72666819Wed, 24 Jun 2026 09:49:22 +0000Chris Dabbs📡 A final Morse code message: "The lid has been opened." 🎙️ Author Conversations with David Dye Do Not Open: Ghost Ships, Hidden History and the Mystery That Refuses to Die What if one of the world’s most chilling maritime mysteries was only the...
📡 A final Morse code message: "The lid has been opened."

🎙️ Author Conversations with David Dye Do Not Open: Ghost Ships, Hidden History and the Mystery That Refuses to Die

What if one of the world’s most chilling maritime mysteries was only the beginning?

In this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs sits down with author David Dye to explore Do Not Open, a historical supernatural thriller inspired by the legendary ghost ship mystery of the Ourang Medan.

⚓ A drifting vessel discovered at sea.
😱 A crew found dead, frozen in terror.
📡 A final Morse code message:

“The lid has been opened.” David reveals how real historical events, wartime conspiracies, mythology and unexplained mysteries became woven together into a story that blurs the line between fact and fiction.

📚 In this conversation
🔎 The true mystery of the Ourang Medan ghost ship 🏺
The origins of the mysterious amulet at the heart of the novel
⚔️ Nazi occult research and wartime secrets
🧪 The disturbing history of Unit 731
🕵️ The enduring mystery of the Somerton Man
✈️ Research trips across Europe and America
🎬 Why readers keep telling David this should become a movie
📖 How a retired police officer became a novelist

💬 Memorable Moment “I wanted readers to wonder how much of this was real.”

Throughout the discussion, David explains how he carefully blended documented history, real people and famous unsolved mysteries with supernatural fiction to create a thriller that feels unsettlingly plausible.
📖 About the Book Do Not Open follows a modern investigation into one of history’s most infamous ghost ship legends. As hidden records and classified files emerge, the trail leads through ancient mythology, wartime experiments, secret organisations and a mysterious amulet capable of unleashing either despair or hope.
🌐 Find David Dye Website: David's website

Buy the book: Do Not Open by David Dye

🎧 Listen to More Author Conversations Official Author Conversations podcast page: YouTube

⭐ Enjoyed the episode?
Please follow, rate and share Author Conversations. Every review helps more readers discover great authors and fascinating stories.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations...]]>2002author_conversations,author_interview,chris_dabbs,conspiracy_theories,ghost_ship,historical_fiction,historical_thriller,maritime_mystery,ourang_medan,supernatural_thriller,unit_73,unsolved_mysteriesfalse119fullSpiritual Sales: How Spiritual Practices Unlock Extraordinary Results | Chris Sharpehttps://youtu.be/PRX5mz_CuOo“When you align with your spirit, you don’t chase success. You attract it.”
Chris Sharpe

✨ Can spirituality actually make you more successful in business?

In this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks with author Chris Sharpe about his book Spiritual Sales: How Spiritual Practice Unlocks Extraordinary Results.

Chris argues that the most effective salespeople are not driven solely by targets, pressure or persuasion.
Instead, they achieve lasting success by developing self-awareness, purpose, service and authentic human connection.

During the conversation, we explore how spiritual principles can transform not only business performance but also personal fulfilment, leadership and relationships.

📚 In this episode:
✨ What “Spiritual Sales” really means
💼 Why authentic service outperforms pressure-based selling
🧠 The connection between mindset and commercial success
❤️ Building trust through genuine human connection
🚀 How spiritual practices can improve performance and fulfilment
🌍 Finding purpose beyond profit

Whether you work in sales, run a business, lead a team or are simply interested in personal development, this conversation offers a different perspective on what success can look like.

▶️ Watch this episode on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/PRX5mz_CuOo

00:00 Introduction
00:16 Meet Chris Sharpe and Spiritual Sales
01:36 What Does Spiritual Sales Mean?
02:30 Sales, Leadership and Spirituality
04:00 Why Success Starts Internally
05:09 Spirituality vs Religion
07:34 Chanting Before Difficult Sales Meetings
08:49 Redefining Success
10:44 The Problem with Traditional Sales Advice
13:04 Spiritual Principles in the Corporate World
15:26 Karma, Faith and Personal Growth
16:34 Viewing Sales Through a Spiritual Lens
17:55 Identity, Purpose and Why Me Why Not?
20:41 Mindset, Self-Belief and Resilience
21:52 Personal Stories and Proof of Practice
22:21 What Leadership Means to Chris Sharpe
23:19 Applying Buddhist Principles to Sales
24:21 Who Should Read Spiritual Sales?
24:49 Audiobooks, Learning and Motivation
27:03 The Secret Behind Long-Term Success
27:26 Final Thoughts on Spiritual Sales
27:54 Upcoming Book: Why Me Why Not?
28:15 Outro

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72655719Tue, 23 Jun 2026 19:54:41 +0000Chris Dabbs“When you align with your spirit, you don’t chase success. You attract it.” Chris Sharpe ✨ Can spirituality actually make you more successful in business? In this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks with author Chris Sharpe about his...“When you align with your spirit, you don’t chase success. You attract it.”
Chris Sharpe

✨ Can spirituality actually make you more successful in business?

In this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks with author Chris Sharpe about his book Spiritual Sales: How Spiritual Practice Unlocks Extraordinary Results.

Chris argues that the most effective salespeople are not driven solely by targets, pressure or persuasion.
Instead, they achieve lasting success by developing self-awareness, purpose, service and authentic human connection.

During the conversation, we explore how spiritual principles can transform not only business performance but also personal fulfilment, leadership and relationships.

📚 In this episode:
✨ What “Spiritual Sales” really means
💼 Why authentic service outperforms pressure-based selling
🧠 The connection between mindset and commercial success
❤️ Building trust through genuine human connection
🚀 How spiritual practices can improve performance and fulfilment
🌍 Finding purpose beyond profit

Whether you work in sales, run a business, lead a team or are simply interested in personal development, this conversation offers a different perspective on what success can look like.

▶️ Watch this episode on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/PRX5mz_CuOo

00:00 Introduction
00:16 Meet Chris Sharpe and Spiritual Sales
01:36 What Does Spiritual Sales Mean?
02:30 Sales, Leadership and Spirituality
04:00 Why Success Starts Internally
05:09 Spirituality vs Religion
07:34 Chanting Before Difficult Sales Meetings
08:49 Redefining Success
10:44 The Problem with Traditional Sales Advice
13:04 Spiritual Principles in the Corporate World
15:26 Karma, Faith and Personal Growth
16:34 Viewing Sales Through a Spiritual Lens
17:55 Identity, Purpose and Why Me Why Not?
20:41 Mindset, Self-Belief and Resilience
21:52 Personal Stories and Proof of Practice
22:21 What Leadership Means to Chris Sharpe
23:19 Applying Buddhist Principles to Sales
24:21 Who Should Read Spiritual Sales?
24:49 Audiobooks, Learning and Motivation
27:03 The Secret Behind Long-Term Success
27:26 Final Thoughts on Spiritual Sales
27:54 Upcoming Book: Why Me Why Not?
28:15 Outro

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process...]]>1684author,business,business_success,chris,conscious,conversations,development,growth,improvement,interview,leadership,mindset,personal,sales,self,sharpe,spiritual,spirituality,spirtual_sales,successfalse118fullWhat If We’ve Misunderstood Jesus? | Hans Peter von Liechtensteinhttps://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKvJWtF1TjJWiVvwbeJUjYLCJhZ2EUSki&si=wecNeL2meL3nKJTY“Questioning accepted history isn’t an attack on faith. It’s a search for truth.” – Hans Peter von Liechtenstein

📚 What if some of the most widely accepted stories in history are incomplete?

In this thought-provoking and radical episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks with Hans Peter von Liechtenstein, author of The Jesus Twins: And Their Countless Incarnations.

⚠️ This episode explores Hans Peter von Liechtenstein’s personal interpretations of history, spirituality and biblical narratives.
Listeners are encouraged to draw their own conclusions.

Drawing on decades of research, personal experience and a lifelong fascination with history, spirituality and ancient texts, Hans shares the ideas that inspired his controversial and compelling book.

From alternative interpretations of biblical narratives to questions surrounding faith, mythology and historical truth, this conversation explores how stories evolve over time and why challenging established narratives remains important.

🎙️ In this episode:

📖 The inspiration behind hi book The Jesus Twins
🔎 Why Hans believes history deserves a second look
⛪ Alternative perspectives on Jesus and biblical figures
📜 Ancient texts, hidden meanings and lost narratives
💭 How a near-death experience shaped his worldview
🌍 Why questioning accepted truths can lead to deeper understanding

Whether you’re interested in history, theology, spirituality or simply enjoy exploring big ideas, this episode offers a fascinating perspective on one of humanity’s most enduring stories.

“History is often written by those who survive, not necessarily by those who were there.”

🎧 Listen now and decide for yourself.

00:00 Introduction
01:30 Meet Hans Peter von Liechtenstein
04:15 The Origins of The Jesus Twins
09:50 Why Question Accepted History?
15:20 Alternative Interpretations of Biblical Narratives
23:40 Ancient Texts and Hidden Meanings
31:15 The Influence of Personal Experience
38:45 Faith, History and Storytelling
46:10 What Readers Should Take Away
50:30 Final Thoughts

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72649139Tue, 23 Jun 2026 13:07:47 +0000Chris Dabbs“Questioning accepted history isn’t an attack on faith. It’s a search for truth.” – Hans Peter von Liechtenstein 📚 What if some of the most widely accepted stories in history are incomplete? In this thought-provoking and radical episode of Author...“Questioning accepted history isn’t an attack on faith. It’s a search for truth.” – Hans Peter von Liechtenstein

📚 What if some of the most widely accepted stories in history are incomplete?

In this thought-provoking and radical episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks with Hans Peter von Liechtenstein, author of The Jesus Twins: And Their Countless Incarnations.

⚠️ This episode explores Hans Peter von Liechtenstein’s personal interpretations of history, spirituality and biblical narratives.
Listeners are encouraged to draw their own conclusions.

Drawing on decades of research, personal experience and a lifelong fascination with history, spirituality and ancient texts, Hans shares the ideas that inspired his controversial and compelling book.

From alternative interpretations of biblical narratives to questions surrounding faith, mythology and historical truth, this conversation explores how stories evolve over time and why challenging established narratives remains important.

🎙️ In this episode:

📖 The inspiration behind hi book The Jesus Twins
🔎 Why Hans believes history deserves a second look
⛪ Alternative perspectives on Jesus and biblical figures
📜 Ancient texts, hidden meanings and lost narratives
💭 How a near-death experience shaped his worldview
🌍 Why questioning accepted truths can lead to deeper understanding

Whether you’re interested in history, theology, spirituality or simply enjoy exploring big ideas, this episode offers a fascinating perspective on one of humanity’s most enduring stories.

“History is often written by those who survive, not necessarily by those who were there.”

🎧 Listen now and decide for yourself.

00:00 Introduction
01:30 Meet Hans Peter von Liechtenstein
04:15 The Origins of The Jesus Twins
09:50 Why Question Accepted History?
15:20 Alternative Interpretations of Biblical Narratives
23:40 Ancient Texts and Hidden Meanings
31:15 The Influence of Personal Experience
38:45 Faith, History and Storytelling
46:10 What Readers Should Take Away
50:30 Final Thoughts

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>2081author,chrisdabbs,history christianity historica,history historical,history religious,interview author,interview faith religion books,jesus,jesustwins,mysteries ancient,peterhansvonlictenstein,podcast book,religion history,research comparative,texts theology spirituality alfalse117fullMedicine Creek Claim: Frontier Women, Homesteading & the Dakota Frontier | CK Van Damhttps://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKvJWtF1TjJWiVvwbeJUjYLCJhZ2EUSki&si=wecNeL2meL3nKJTY“The frontier wasn’t built by men alone. Women claimed it, survived it and shaped it too.”
— CK Van Dam

📚 What did it take for a woman to survive and thrive on the Dakota frontier?
In this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs is joined by historical fiction author CK Van Dam to discuss her latest novel, Medicine Creek Claim.

Inspired by real historical records and the remarkable women who shaped the American frontier, CK explores the challenges, resilience and determination of female homesteaders in the Dakota Territory.

The conversation delves into the research behind the novel, the realities of frontier life and the stories history often overlooks.

🎙️ In this episode:
🌾 The real women who inspired Medicine Creek Claim
📖 How historical records shaped the novel
🏡 What life was really like for female homesteaders
💪 The strength and determination required to survive on the frontier
🔎 Surprising discoveries made during research
✍️ Turning history into compelling fiction

📚 Why forgotten stories still matter today

Whether you’re a fan of historical fiction, American history or powerful stories about pioneering women, this is a fascinating conversation that brings the Dakota frontier vividly to life.

“History often remembers the men who settled the frontier. CK Van Dam reminds us of the women who made it possible.”

🎙️ Podcast Chapters
00:00 Introduction to CK Van Dam and Medicine Creek Claim
01:18 The surprising statistic that inspired the Dakota Frontier series
02:22 Real women homesteaders and the origins of the story
03:45 Charlotte Ward: creating a woman who disguises herself as a man
05:31 Women in the Civil War and challenging historical assumptions
07:08 The realities of homesteading on the Dakota frontier
08:24 What it took to prove a homestead claim
10:02 Frontier survival and the hardships faced by settlers
11:29 The role of women in building the American frontier
13:02 Researching Civil War medicine and battlefield conditions
14:22 Medicine, hospitals and healthcare during wartime
16:05 Historical accuracy versus storytelling
17:20 Research challenges and uncovering forgotten history
18:48 Was there anything that genuinely shocked CK during research?
20:01 Divided loyalties in Missouri during the Civil War
21:32 Creating memorable characters from historical inspiration
22:54 Strong women throughout the Dakota Frontier series
24:08 Why these stories still resonate with readers today
25:30 The importance of preserving overlooked histories
27:12 What’s next for CK Van Dam?
28:27 Final thoughts and closing remarks

You can now watch CK's interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Qra80fQg4UM

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72636206Mon, 22 Jun 2026 17:29:10 +0000Chris Dabbs“The frontier wasn’t built by men alone. Women claimed it, survived it and shaped it too.” — CK Van Dam 📚 What did it take for a woman to survive and thrive on the Dakota frontier? In this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs is joined by...“The frontier wasn’t built by men alone. Women claimed it, survived it and shaped it too.”
— CK Van Dam

📚 What did it take for a woman to survive and thrive on the Dakota frontier?
In this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs is joined by historical fiction author CK Van Dam to discuss her latest novel, Medicine Creek Claim.

Inspired by real historical records and the remarkable women who shaped the American frontier, CK explores the challenges, resilience and determination of female homesteaders in the Dakota Territory.

The conversation delves into the research behind the novel, the realities of frontier life and the stories history often overlooks.

🎙️ In this episode:
🌾 The real women who inspired Medicine Creek Claim
📖 How historical records shaped the novel
🏡 What life was really like for female homesteaders
💪 The strength and determination required to survive on the frontier
🔎 Surprising discoveries made during research
✍️ Turning history into compelling fiction

📚 Why forgotten stories still matter today

Whether you’re a fan of historical fiction, American history or powerful stories about pioneering women, this is a fascinating conversation that brings the Dakota frontier vividly to life.

“History often remembers the men who settled the frontier. CK Van Dam reminds us of the women who made it possible.”

🎙️ Podcast Chapters
00:00 Introduction to CK Van Dam and Medicine Creek Claim
01:18 The surprising statistic that inspired the Dakota Frontier series
02:22 Real women homesteaders and the origins of the story
03:45 Charlotte Ward: creating a woman who disguises herself as a man
05:31 Women in the Civil War and challenging historical assumptions
07:08 The realities of homesteading on the Dakota frontier
08:24 What it took to prove a homestead claim
10:02 Frontier survival and the hardships faced by settlers
11:29 The role of women in building the American frontier
13:02 Researching Civil War medicine and battlefield conditions
14:22 Medicine, hospitals and healthcare during wartime
16:05 Historical accuracy versus storytelling
17:20 Research challenges and uncovering forgotten history
18:48 Was there anything that genuinely shocked CK during research?
20:01 Divided loyalties in Missouri during the Civil War
21:32 Creating memorable characters from historical inspiration
22:54 Strong women throughout the Dakota Frontier series
24:08 Why these stories still resonate with readers today
25:30 The importance of preserving overlooked histories
27:12 What’s next for CK Van Dam?
28:27 Final thoughts and closing remarks

You can now watch CK's interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Qra80fQg4UM

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal...]]>1731chrisdabbs,ckvandam,claim historical,conversations chris,creek,dabbs books historical,fiction dakota,frontierwomen,history american,history pioneer,homesteaders literary,interview book,medicinecreekclaim,novel author,podcast writing,process american,research women,west homesteading frontier,women author,women historicalfalse116fullDoes God Mean Exactly What He Says? | Dr Cliff Loriot | Author Conversationshttps://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKvJWtF1TjJWiVvwbeJUjYLCJhZ2EUSki&si=wecNeL2meL3nKJTY“God says what He means, and He means what He says.”

📖 What if one of the Bible’s most debated prophetic passages has been misunderstood for generations?

In this fascinating episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks with biblical scholar Dr Cliff Loriot, author of The Sovereign Lord Yahweh Has Spoken: He Has Roared Like a Lion.

Drawing on decades of research, advanced biblical languages, textual criticism and even the behaviour of lions, Dr Loriot challenges long-held scholarly assumptions surrounding Amos 3:3–8 and presents a compelling case for a single, clear meaning behind God’s communication.

Whether you’re a pastor, theology student, Bible teacher or simply curious about biblical interpretation, this conversation explores how language, context and careful scholarship can transform our understanding of Scripture.

🔥 In This Episode

📚 Why Amos 3:3–8 became the focus of Dr Loriot’s lifelong research
🦁 How lion behaviour helped unlock a fresh interpretation of a famous biblical passage
✍️ The importance of language, context and single meaning interpretation
📜 How textual criticism helps scholars determine the original biblical text
⛪ The debate between literal and allegorical interpretation of Old Testament prophecy
🔎 Why Dr Loriot challenges the majority scholarly view of Amos
🌍 The relationship between prophecy, revelation and God’s communication
📖 What modern readers can learn from one of the Bible’s most debated passages

Dr Cliff Loriot is a biblical scholar specialising in Old Testament studies, prophetic literature and biblical interpretation. His latest book, The Sovereign Lord Yahweh Has Spoken: He Has Roared Like a Lion, examines Amos 3:3–8 and argues that God’s communication possesses a singular, intended meaning that can be understood through careful linguistic and contextual analysis.

Author website: Cliff's website - click here
Buy the book - click here: The Sovereign Lord Yahweh Has Spoken: He Has Roared Like a Lion

00:00 Introduction to Dr Cliff Loriot and the book
01:18 Why Amos 3:3–8 became his life’s research
06:29 Can we trust ancient biblical translations?
12:25 Challenging the majority scholarly view
16:01 The surprising role of lion behaviour
20:10 Why God’s words have one meaning
25:01 What pastors and Bible students can learn
28:04 The significance of the seven examples in Amos
31:58 Solving the lion imagery puzzle
34:59 The central message of Amos
38:05 Where to find Dr Cliff Loriot’s work
39:07 Final thoughts and farewell

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72507667Sat, 20 Jun 2026 09:35:25 +0000Chris Dabbs“God says what He means, and He means what He says.” 📖 What if one of the Bible’s most debated prophetic passages has been misunderstood for generations? In this fascinating episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks with biblical scholar...“God says what He means, and He means what He says.”

📖 What if one of the Bible’s most debated prophetic passages has been misunderstood for generations?

In this fascinating episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks with biblical scholar Dr Cliff Loriot, author of The Sovereign Lord Yahweh Has Spoken: He Has Roared Like a Lion.

Drawing on decades of research, advanced biblical languages, textual criticism and even the behaviour of lions, Dr Loriot challenges long-held scholarly assumptions surrounding Amos 3:3–8 and presents a compelling case for a single, clear meaning behind God’s communication.

Whether you’re a pastor, theology student, Bible teacher or simply curious about biblical interpretation, this conversation explores how language, context and careful scholarship can transform our understanding of Scripture.

🔥 In This Episode

📚 Why Amos 3:3–8 became the focus of Dr Loriot’s lifelong research
🦁 How lion behaviour helped unlock a fresh interpretation of a famous biblical passage
✍️ The importance of language, context and single meaning interpretation
📜 How textual criticism helps scholars determine the original biblical text
⛪ The debate between literal and allegorical interpretation of Old Testament prophecy
🔎 Why Dr Loriot challenges the majority scholarly view of Amos
🌍 The relationship between prophecy, revelation and God’s communication
📖 What modern readers can learn from one of the Bible’s most debated passages

Dr Cliff Loriot is a biblical scholar specialising in Old Testament studies, prophetic literature and biblical interpretation. His latest book, The Sovereign Lord Yahweh Has Spoken: He Has Roared Like a Lion, examines Amos 3:3–8 and argues that God’s communication possesses a singular, intended meaning that can be understood through careful linguistic and contextual analysis.

Author website: Cliff's website - click here
Buy the book - click here: The Sovereign Lord Yahweh Has Spoken: He Has Roared Like a Lion

00:00 Introduction to Dr Cliff Loriot and the book
01:18 Why Amos 3:3–8 became his life’s research
06:29 Can we trust ancient biblical translations?
12:25 Challenging the majority scholarly view
16:01 The surprising role of lion behaviour
20:10 Why God’s words have one meaning
25:01 What pastors and Bible students can learn
28:04 The significance of the seven examples in Amos
31:58 Solving the lion imagery puzzle
34:59 The central message of Amos
38:05 Where to find Dr Cliff Loriot’s work
39:07 Final thoughts and farewell

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the...]]>23913,amos,author,bible,biblical,christian,conversations,criticism,dabbs,interpretation,loriot,old,prophecy,scholarship,study,testament,textual,theologyfalse114fullSubject to Change: What We’ve Lost in the Digital Age | Tom Potosnakhttps://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKvJWtF1TjJWiVvwbeJUjYLCJhZ2EUSki&si=yCCoRPyMwXKmURlc
📱 What have we gained from technology… and what have we lost? In this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks with storyteller, singer-songwriter and humourist Tom Potosnak, author of Subject to Change.

Part memoir, part collection of stories and songs, Tom’s book explores the journey from an analogue childhood to today’s hyper-connected digital world.
Through humour, nostalgia and heartfelt storytelling, he reflects on family, friendship, ageing, community and the simple moments that often matter most.

🎸 Featuring original songs accessed through QR codes within the book, Subject to Change offers readers a unique blend of music and memoir while asking one timeless question: “What does it all mean?”
During the conversation, Tom shares stories from his childhood, military service, family life and career, while discussing the importance of genuine human connection in an age dominated by screens and social media.

🔎 In this episode:

📚 Why Subject to Change is more than a traditional memoir
🎸 How music and storytelling work together throughout the book
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The lessons Tom learned from family, friends and everyday encounters
📱 What we’ve gained and lost in the shift from analogue to digital life
😂 Why humour is often the best way to tell the truth
❤️ The importance of connection, community and meaningful relationships
🌎 What younger generations can learn from life before smartphones
💡 Why “ordinary” people often have the most extraordinary stories

🎙️ About Tom Potosnak Tom Potosnak is a storyteller, singer-songwriter and humourist whose work blends personal experience with larger reflections on life, culture and community. Through live performances, songs and writing, he explores the humour, wisdom and humanity found in everyday experiences.

📖 Featured Book Subject to Change
By Tom Potosnak
www.tompotosnak.com
Buy Tom's book here🎧 Available in audiobook format, narrated by Tom himself.

00:00 Introduction
01:01 Why Tom Wrote Subject to Change
05:35 What Does It All Mean?
09:14 Life Before Social Media
13:17 Why Humour Matters
16:21 Growing Up Then vs Now
19:15 The Power of Everyday Stories
21:56 Lessons for Younger Generations
24:10 Why Everything Is Subject to Change
27:21 Reader Reactions
28:41 The Book's Core Message
29:53 Final Thoughts

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72603511Sat, 20 Jun 2026 06:30:21 +0000Chris Dabbs“A meaningful life is built on meaningful relationships. Everything else is subject to change.” 📱 What have we gained from technology… and what have we lost? In this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks with storyteller,...
📱 What have we gained from technology… and what have we lost? In this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks with storyteller, singer-songwriter and humourist Tom Potosnak, author of Subject to Change.

Part memoir, part collection of stories and songs, Tom’s book explores the journey from an analogue childhood to today’s hyper-connected digital world.
Through humour, nostalgia and heartfelt storytelling, he reflects on family, friendship, ageing, community and the simple moments that often matter most.

🎸 Featuring original songs accessed through QR codes within the book, Subject to Change offers readers a unique blend of music and memoir while asking one timeless question: “What does it all mean?”
During the conversation, Tom shares stories from his childhood, military service, family life and career, while discussing the importance of genuine human connection in an age dominated by screens and social media.

🔎 In this episode:

📚 Why Subject to Change is more than a traditional memoir
🎸 How music and storytelling work together throughout the book
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The lessons Tom learned from family, friends and everyday encounters
📱 What we’ve gained and lost in the shift from analogue to digital life
😂 Why humour is often the best way to tell the truth
❤️ The importance of connection, community and meaningful relationships
🌎 What younger generations can learn from life before smartphones
💡 Why “ordinary” people often have the most extraordinary stories

🎙️ About Tom Potosnak Tom Potosnak is a storyteller, singer-songwriter and humourist whose work blends personal experience with larger reflections on life, culture and community. Through live performances, songs and writing, he explores the humour, wisdom and humanity found in everyday experiences.

📖 Featured Book Subject to Change
By Tom Potosnak
www.tompotosnak.com
Buy Tom's book here🎧 Available in audiobook format, narrated by Tom himself.

00:00 Introduction
01:01 Why Tom Wrote Subject to Change
05:35 What Does It All Mean?
09:14 Life Before Social Media
13:17 Why Humour Matters
16:21 Growing Up Then vs Now
19:15 The Power of Everyday Stories
21:56 Lessons for Younger Generations
24:10 Why Everything Is Subject to Change
27:21 Reader Reactions
28:41 The Book's Core Message
29:53 Final Thoughts

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of...]]>1856author,change,chrisdabbs,connection,conversations,dabbs,family,growth,human,interview,memoir,personal,potosnak,singer,songwriter,stories,storytelling,subject,to,tompotosnakfalse115fullHe Turned Down the CIA… Then Wrote This Thriller | Robert Danger Workmanhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/he-turned-down-the-cia-then-wrote-this-thriller-robert-danger-workman--72485669
🎙️ In this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs sits down with Robert Danger Workman, author of ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT! Alone Wolfe.

✍️ Robert discusses his remarkable journey from bestselling sales author to thriller novelist, the creation of private investigator Nick Wolfe, and why classic noir legends such as Mickey Spillane continue to influence his writing today.

🔎 The conversation explores:
• Political conspiracies and power plays
• Strong female characters who refuse to stay in the background
• Drawing inspiration from real-world events
• The fine line between satire and serious social commentary
• The enduring appeal of classic hard-boiled detective fiction

📖 Robert also reveals how his novels evolved from Maximum Prejudice through Immigration Invasion and into ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT! Alone Wolfe, where Nick Wolfe investigates the murder of his mentor and uncovers a conspiracy that could threaten the highest levels of American power.

🎧 Plus, Robert explains why he chose to narrate the audiobook himself and shares details of the next Nick Wolfe adventure, Christmas Colt .45.

🔥 Whether you enjoy classic detective fiction, political thrillers, neo-noir mysteries or hard-hitting action stories, this is a fascinating conversation with an author who proudly describes his books as:

💬 “A wild ride.”

Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Author Conversations
01:05 Meet Robert Danger Workman
02:20 From writer to salesman to bestselling author
05:15 The story behind Hired Gun
08:30 Why Robert kept getting fired despite being number one
10:45 Leaving Dallas for ranch life in Texas
13:00 Creating the Nick Wolfe series
15:15 The premise behind ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT! Alone Wolfe
18:00 Turning real-world events into thriller fiction
21:10 Walking the line between satire and social commentary
23:30 Who is Nick Wolfe?
26:00 Strong women in the Nick Wolfe universe
29:15 Electra Wolfe, Trouble Wolfe and the female cast
31:45 Mickey Spillane and classic noir influences
34:30 Why Robert writes “tough-guy stories”
37:15 Narrating the audiobook himself
39:40 What surprised him most about Nick Wolfe
42:15 Putting Nick Wolfe through hell
44:20 Why readers call his books “a wild ride”
46:10 The next book: Christmas Colt .45
47:45 Where to find Robert Workman’s books
49:00 Closing thoughts and farewell

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72485669Thu, 11 Jun 2026 19:40:07 +0000Chris Dabbs📚 What happens when a former top-performing salesman leaves city life behind and starts writing action thrillers from a ranch in Texas? 🎙️ In this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs sits down with Robert Danger Workman, author of...
🎙️ In this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs sits down with Robert Danger Workman, author of ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT! Alone Wolfe.

✍️ Robert discusses his remarkable journey from bestselling sales author to thriller novelist, the creation of private investigator Nick Wolfe, and why classic noir legends such as Mickey Spillane continue to influence his writing today.

🔎 The conversation explores:
• Political conspiracies and power plays
• Strong female characters who refuse to stay in the background
• Drawing inspiration from real-world events
• The fine line between satire and serious social commentary
• The enduring appeal of classic hard-boiled detective fiction

📖 Robert also reveals how his novels evolved from Maximum Prejudice through Immigration Invasion and into ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT! Alone Wolfe, where Nick Wolfe investigates the murder of his mentor and uncovers a conspiracy that could threaten the highest levels of American power.

🎧 Plus, Robert explains why he chose to narrate the audiobook himself and shares details of the next Nick Wolfe adventure, Christmas Colt .45.

🔥 Whether you enjoy classic detective fiction, political thrillers, neo-noir mysteries or hard-hitting action stories, this is a fascinating conversation with an author who proudly describes his books as:

💬 “A wild ride.”

Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Author Conversations
01:05 Meet Robert Danger Workman
02:20 From writer to salesman to bestselling author
05:15 The story behind Hired Gun
08:30 Why Robert kept getting fired despite being number one
10:45 Leaving Dallas for ranch life in Texas
13:00 Creating the Nick Wolfe series
15:15 The premise behind ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT! Alone Wolfe
18:00 Turning real-world events into thriller fiction
21:10 Walking the line between satire and social commentary
23:30 Who is Nick Wolfe?
26:00 Strong women in the Nick Wolfe universe
29:15 Electra Wolfe, Trouble Wolfe and the female cast
31:45 Mickey Spillane and classic noir influences
34:30 Why Robert writes “tough-guy stories”
37:15 Narrating the audiobook himself
39:40 What surprised him most about Nick Wolfe
42:15 Putting Nick Wolfe through hell
44:20 Why readers call his books “a wild ride”
46:10 The next book: Christmas Colt .45
47:45 Where to find Robert Workman’s books
49:00 Closing thoughts and farewell

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two...]]>1697action,alone,assassination,attempt,audiobook,author,chris,conspiracy,crime,dabbs,danger,detective,fiction,noir,political,robert,suspense,thriller,wolfe,workmanfalse113fullTrauma Doesn’t End With You: You Need to Know About Your Rootshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/trauma-doesn-t-end-with-you-you-need-to-know-about-your-roots--72473153
✔ What inherited trauma really is
✔ How family secrets affect future generations
✔ Why guilt and shame can echo through families
✔ The surprising impact of DNA discoveries
✔ How hypnotherapy works with unconscious patterns
✔ Why healthy boundaries are essential for healing
✔ Practical ways to break destructive family cycles

One of the most compelling parts of the discussion centres on a mysterious family photograph that led Zetta on a journey to uncover a hidden story that had influenced generations of her family.

Whether you’re interested in psychology, mental health, family history, personal development or emotional healing, this conversation offers thought-provoking insights into the stories we inherit and how we can rewrite them.

📚 The Trauma Effect: Exploring and Resolving Inherited Trauma by Zetta Thomelin

🌐 Learn more: https://www.zettathomelin.com/
🎙️ Subscribe for more Author Conversations interviews with authors, researchers and experts.

This is a fascinating conversation about family history, psychology, healing and understanding the stories we carry.

00:00 Introduction
01:15 What Is Inherited Trauma?
08:30 How Trauma Passes Through Families
15:20 The Family Photograph That Changed Everything
23:40 Why Family Secrets Matter
32:15 DNA Discoveries and Identity
42:45 How Hypnotherapy Creates Change
54:00 Rebuilding Boundaries and Self-Worth
01:02:30 What Readers Can Learn From The Trauma Effect
01:07:00 Final Thoughts

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72473153Thu, 11 Jun 2026 07:13:24 +0000Chris DabbsWhat if the struggles you face today didn’t begin with you? In this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks with author, therapist and hypnotherapy expert Zetta Thomelin about her book The Trauma Effect: Exploring and Resolving Inherited...
✔ What inherited trauma really is
✔ How family secrets affect future generations
✔ Why guilt and shame can echo through families
✔ The surprising impact of DNA discoveries
✔ How hypnotherapy works with unconscious patterns
✔ Why healthy boundaries are essential for healing
✔ Practical ways to break destructive family cycles

One of the most compelling parts of the discussion centres on a mysterious family photograph that led Zetta on a journey to uncover a hidden story that had influenced generations of her family.

Whether you’re interested in psychology, mental health, family history, personal development or emotional healing, this conversation offers thought-provoking insights into the stories we inherit and how we can rewrite them.

📚 The Trauma Effect: Exploring and Resolving Inherited Trauma by Zetta Thomelin

🌐 Learn more: https://www.zettathomelin.com/
🎙️ Subscribe for more Author Conversations interviews with authors, researchers and experts.

This is a fascinating conversation about family history, psychology, healing and understanding the stories we carry.

00:00 Introduction
01:15 What Is Inherited Trauma?
08:30 How Trauma Passes Through Families
15:20 The Family Photograph That Changed Everything
23:40 Why Family Secrets Matter
32:15 DNA Discoveries and Identity
42:45 How Hypnotherapy Creates Change
54:00 Rebuilding Boundaries and Self-Worth
01:02:30 What Readers Can Learn From The Trauma Effect
01:07:00 Final Thoughts

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>2596development,dna,emotional,family,generational,healing,health,history,hypnotherapy,identity,inherited,mental,psychology,recovery,secrets,self,testing,thomelin,trauma,zettafalse112fullLaure Stack on Once Upon a Boy & Howie the Unusual Bear with Chris Dabbshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/laure-stack-on-once-upon-a-boy-howie-the-unusual-bear-with-chris-dabbs--72343644Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks with Laure Stack, an author and former educator whose children’s books are rooted in more than 20 years of working with young people.

Laure discusses how her classroom experience shaped her writing, particularly the children who shut down when they believe they “can’t” do something. Her book Once Upon a Boy explores self-belief and the idea that children need encouragement to recognise their own potential.
The conversation also looks at Howie the Unusual Bear, a story about difference, individuality and accepting children who do not fit neatly into the box. Laure explains how the character was partly inspired by her own son and by the many young people she met who needed reassurance that being different can be a strength.
Chris and Laure also talk about The Leaf That Went on an Unexpected Road Trip, a story inspired by a real leaf on a car journey, which became a gentle way to explore fear, change and learning to trust new experiences.

This is a warm conversation about education, childhood, imagination, nature, confidence and the importance of stories that help children feel seen.

Episode Notes In this episode:
Laure Stack reflects on her move from education into writing
Why children often shut down when they believe they cannot do something
The real-life inspiration behind Once Upon a Boy
How Howie the Unusual Bear explores difference and acceptance
Why bullying often comes from misunderstanding
How a leaf on a car journey inspired a children’s book
The role of nature, animals and imagination in Laure’s storytelling
Why children need stories that help them feel capable, valued and understood

Youy can watch Chris' conversatiuon with author Laure Stack on YouTube here : YOUTUBE LINK

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72343644Thu, 04 Jun 2026 13:10:00 +0000Chris DabbsIn this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks with Laure Stack, an author and former educator whose children’s books are rooted in more than 20 years of working with young people. Laure discusses how her classroom experience shaped her...Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks with Laure Stack, an author and former educator whose children’s books are rooted in more than 20 years of working with young people.

Laure discusses how her classroom experience shaped her writing, particularly the children who shut down when they believe they “can’t” do something. Her book Once Upon a Boy explores self-belief and the idea that children need encouragement to recognise their own potential.
The conversation also looks at Howie the Unusual Bear, a story about difference, individuality and accepting children who do not fit neatly into the box. Laure explains how the character was partly inspired by her own son and by the many young people she met who needed reassurance that being different can be a strength.
Chris and Laure also talk about The Leaf That Went on an Unexpected Road Trip, a story inspired by a real leaf on a car journey, which became a gentle way to explore fear, change and learning to trust new experiences.

This is a warm conversation about education, childhood, imagination, nature, confidence and the importance of stories that help children feel seen.

Episode Notes In this episode:
Laure Stack reflects on her move from education into writing
Why children often shut down when they believe they cannot do something
The real-life inspiration behind Once Upon a Boy
How Howie the Unusual Bear explores difference and acceptance
Why bullying often comes from misunderstanding
How a leaf on a car journey inspired a children’s book
The role of nature, animals and imagination in Laure’s storytelling
Why children need stories that help them feel capable, valued and understood

Youy can watch Chris' conversatiuon with author Laure Stack on YouTube here : YOUTUBE LINK

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>1975a,author,bear,books,boy,children’s,conversations,howie,laure,leaf,on,once,stack,that,the,unusual,upon,wentfalse111fullThomas Redick on Trump, Reparations, Race & Historical Justice with Chris Dabbshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/thomas-redick-on-trump-reparations-race-historical-justice-with-chris-dabbs--72341253In this episode of Author Conversations, broadcaster and journalist Chris Dabbs speaks with author Thomas Redick about his controversial and provocative book Time for Trump’s Patriotic Reparations.

The discussion explores slavery, Jim Crow laws, lynching, historical injustice and whether the United States is approaching a political tipping point on reparations. Redick argues that, despite Donald Trump’s deeply divisive reputation on race, he may uniquely be positioned to force a national conversation around compensation, accountability and historical justice.

The conversation examines:
🔹 The legal challenges surrounding slavery reparations
🔹 Jim Crow, lynching and racial violence
🔹 Why California and New York are already exploring reparations
🔹 Historical precedents including Holocaust and Japanese-American reparations
🔹 The politics of memory and national identity
🔹 Whether reparations should involve money, housing, opportunity zones or systemic reform
🔹 Why Redick believes America has delayed this conversation for decades

This interview is not an endorsement of any political position.
It is a journalistic discussion designed to critically examine the arguments raised in the book.

🎙️ Hosted by Chris Dabbs
📚 Guest: Thomas Redick
📖 Book: Time for Trump’s Patriotic Reparations

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72341253Thu, 04 Jun 2026 10:39:46 +0000Chris DabbsCould Donald Trump become the president who delivers reparations for Black Americans? In this episode of Author Conversations, broadcaster and journalist Chris Dabbs speaks with author Thomas Redick about his controversial and provocative book Time...In this episode of Author Conversations, broadcaster and journalist Chris Dabbs speaks with author Thomas Redick about his controversial and provocative book Time for Trump’s Patriotic Reparations.

The discussion explores slavery, Jim Crow laws, lynching, historical injustice and whether the United States is approaching a political tipping point on reparations. Redick argues that, despite Donald Trump’s deeply divisive reputation on race, he may uniquely be positioned to force a national conversation around compensation, accountability and historical justice.

The conversation examines:
🔹 The legal challenges surrounding slavery reparations
🔹 Jim Crow, lynching and racial violence
🔹 Why California and New York are already exploring reparations
🔹 Historical precedents including Holocaust and Japanese-American reparations
🔹 The politics of memory and national identity
🔹 Whether reparations should involve money, housing, opportunity zones or systemic reform
🔹 Why Redick believes America has delayed this conversation for decades

This interview is not an endorsement of any political position.
It is a journalistic discussion designed to critically examine the arguments raised in the book.

🎙️ Hosted by Chris Dabbs
📚 Guest: Thomas Redick
📖 Book: Time for Trump’s Patriotic Reparations

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>1876american,constitutional,crow,debate,donald,historical,jim,justice,law,policy,political,politics,public,race,redick,relations,reparations,slavery,thomas,trumpfalse110fullMark Sacco on Mafia Power, Loyalty & Survival | Author Conversations with Chris Dabbshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/mark-sacco-on-mafia-power-loyalty-survival-author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--72329722Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs, Chris speaks with author Mark Sacco about his gripping crime novel Owned By The Streets.
Set against the backdrop of 1950s organised crime, the story follows Frank Gevono, an ambitious young man torn between the values of family life and the dangerous pull of the streets. As betrayal, romance and violence collide, Frank is forced to survive in a world where loyalty can mean life or death.
Mark discusses the inspiration behind the book, the enduring fascination with mafia culture and the emotional depth behind organised crime storytelling.
This is a conversation about power, survival, loyalty and the cost of ambition.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72329722Wed, 03 Jun 2026 20:31:22 +0000Chris DabbsIn this episode of Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs, Chris speaks with author Mark Sacco about his gripping crime novel Owned By The Streets. Set against the backdrop of 1950s organised crime, the story follows Frank Gevono, an ambitious young...Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs, Chris speaks with author Mark Sacco about his gripping crime novel Owned By The Streets.
Set against the backdrop of 1950s organised crime, the story follows Frank Gevono, an ambitious young man torn between the values of family life and the dangerous pull of the streets. As betrayal, romance and violence collide, Frank is forced to survive in a world where loyalty can mean life or death.
Mark discusses the inspiration behind the book, the enduring fascination with mafia culture and the emotional depth behind organised crime storytelling.
This is a conversation about power, survival, loyalty and the cost of ambition.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>1938author,by,chris,conversations,crime,dabbs,fiction,gangster,interview,italian,mafia,mark,novel,organised,owned,podcast,sacco,stories,streets,thefalse19fullAI for Beginners Demystified | author Rick Samara with Chris Dabbs on Author Conversationshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ai-for-beginners-demystified-author-rick-samara-with-chris-dabbs-on-author-conversations--72150087Artificial intelligence is everywhere right now, but for many people it still feels confusing, technical and overwhelming.

In this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks with award-winning author Rick Samara about his book AI for Beginners Demystified, a practical guide designed to help everyday people understand artificial intelligence without the complicated jargon.

Rick shares how his background as a former Air Force intelligence officer helped him develop a talent for simplifying complex information into clear, understandable ideas. The conversation explores how AI is already changing business, communication, productivity and everyday life, while also tackling common fears and misconceptions surrounding the technology. Whether you are completely new to AI or simply curious about how it works, this interview offers an accessible and engaging introduction to one of the biggest technological shifts of our time.

In This Episode

Why AI feels intimidating to many people
How beginners can start using AI confidently
The biggest misconceptions about artificial intelligence
Practical uses of AI in daily life and business
How AI may change jobs, communication and creativity
Rick Samara’s approach to simplifying technical concepts
The story behind AI for Beginners Demystified

About Rick Samara Rick Samara is an award-winning author and former Air Force intelligence officer known for making complex technical concepts easy to understand. His book AI for Beginners Demystified has received recognition from LitFest America 2026 and Literary Titan.

Today, Rick helps businesses understand and adopt AI through his digital marketing work, focusing on practical and accessible applications of artificial intelligence.

artificial intelligence, AI for beginners, Rick Samara, AI explained, AI podcast, beginner AI guide, generative AI, machine learning, future of AI, digital marketing AI, AI interview, author conversations, Chris Dabbs, technology podcast

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72150087Mon, 25 May 2026 06:26:52 +0000Chris DabbsArtificial intelligence is everywhere right now, but for many people it still feels confusing, technical and overwhelming. In this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks with award-winning author Rick Samara about his book AI for...Artificial intelligence is everywhere right now, but for many people it still feels confusing, technical and overwhelming.

In this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks with award-winning author Rick Samara about his book AI for Beginners Demystified, a practical guide designed to help everyday people understand artificial intelligence without the complicated jargon.

Rick shares how his background as a former Air Force intelligence officer helped him develop a talent for simplifying complex information into clear, understandable ideas. The conversation explores how AI is already changing business, communication, productivity and everyday life, while also tackling common fears and misconceptions surrounding the technology. Whether you are completely new to AI or simply curious about how it works, this interview offers an accessible and engaging introduction to one of the biggest technological shifts of our time.

In This Episode

Why AI feels intimidating to many people
How beginners can start using AI confidently
The biggest misconceptions about artificial intelligence
Practical uses of AI in daily life and business
How AI may change jobs, communication and creativity
Rick Samara’s approach to simplifying technical concepts
The story behind AI for Beginners Demystified

About Rick Samara Rick Samara is an award-winning author and former Air Force intelligence officer known for making complex technical concepts easy to understand. His book AI for Beginners Demystified has received recognition from LitFest America 2026 and Literary Titan.

Today, Rick helps businesses understand and adopt AI through his digital marketing work, focusing on practical and accessible applications of artificial intelligence.

artificial intelligence, AI for beginners, Rick Samara, AI explained, AI podcast, beginner AI guide, generative AI, machine learning, future of AI, digital marketing AI, AI interview, author conversations, Chris Dabbs, technology podcast

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>1873ai,aiforbeginners,aitools,artificialintelligence,authorconversations,authorinterview,businessai,chrisdabbs,digitalmarketing,futuretech,generativeai,machinelearning,podcast,ricksamara,technologyfalse18fullEnice Toussaint | Writing Pain Into Strength | Author Conversations with Chris Dabbshttps://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKvJWtF1TjJWiVvwbeJUjYLCJhZ2EUSki&si=QyUxniNqm1yEoRnY

Growing up in Haiti

Life in New York during the 1970s

Building a new life in Montreal

Revisiting painful memories through writing

Family legacy and identity

Trauma, healing and forgiveness

The realities of immigrant life

Writing autobiographical memoirs across multiple cultures and languages

Growing up in Haiti

Life in New York during the 1970s

Building a new life in Montreal

Revisiting painful memories through writing

Family legacy and identity

Trauma, healing and forgiveness

The realities of immigrant life

Writing autobiographical memoirs across multiple cultures and languages

Enice explains how writing the books forced her to revisit difficult periods of her life, including relationships, migration struggles and emotional trauma, while ultimately helping her find peace and strength. Max and Natacha also share their own reflections on discovering their mother’s life story through the memoirs and why they believe the books will resonate with readers around the world.

📚 Tales of a Multifaceted Life is available in English and French editions through Amazon and major online retailers.

🎧 Follow Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs for more in-depth interviews with writers, thinkers and storytellers from around the world.

======

This episode was self edited by author...https://enspublishing.com/
"Go, register on our website www.enspublishing.com _ don't miss all the future book signings and all the availability of the 4 Volumes on our website and #Kindle #Amazon #apple #spotify #Kobo #walmart #googleplay _
Author Enice Toussaint's autobiography, English version " Tales of a Multifaceted Life ", French version " Une femme parmi tant d'autres"
SERIES OF 4 VOLUMES.
☕https://buymeacoffee.com/natcasllc
👉Paypal: https://paypal.com/donate/?hosted_but...
👉Cashapp: 2264a,author,canadian,enice,family,haitian,healing,immigrant,interview,life,memoir,multifaceted,of,recovery,story,tales,through,toussaint,trauma,writingfalse17fullAuthor Conversations with Chris Dabbs - Sir Tim Melville-Rosshttps://www.chrisdabbs.online/sir-tim-melville-ross-on-tough-choicesTough Choices, an extraordinary first novel inspired by the lives of his father and grandfather.
Spanning the late 19th and 20th centuries, the story moves from the Amazon jungle to early aviation, submarine warfare, espionage and the emotional aftermath of war. In this conversation, Sir Tim reflects on family history, courage, trauma, ambition and the difficult decisions that shape generations.
In this episode:
• Why Tough Choices began as a family record
• The real-life story of a 12-year-old running away to the Amazon
• Early aviation, war and survival
• Submarine command at just 23
• The psychological toll of conflict and espionage
• Why the women in the story became central to the book
• Whether family history shapes the next generation
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
01:43 Why Sir Tim wrote Tough Choices
03:37 Family letters and real source material
04:35 A young submariner in wartime
06:30 Fiction rooted in extraordinary truth
08:12 Running away to the Amazon at 12
12:38 Early aviation and a devastating crash
16:31 From grandfather to father
20:58 War, espionage and psychological trauma
25:42 The women who held the family together
27:11 How one generation shapes the next
32:13 Is the book hopeful?
34:24 Lessons for modern readers
38:25 Will Sir Tim write another book?
40:57 Final thoughts
Listen on your favourite podcast platform:
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/48XhkPq
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6oflXd2H8V0akKuPttSUfb
iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/326179226
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/cc98bcc7-d3d9-4a55-8fba-fb23cbbd83dd
Subscribe for more in-depth author interviews and conversations.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72002063Thu, 14 May 2026 08:46:12 +0000Chris DabbsSir Tim Melville-Ross joins Chris Dabbs on Author Conversations to discuss Tough Choices, an extraordinary first novel inspired by the lives of his father and grandfather. Spanning the late 19th and 20th centuries, the story moves from the Amazon...Tough Choices, an extraordinary first novel inspired by the lives of his father and grandfather.
Spanning the late 19th and 20th centuries, the story moves from the Amazon jungle to early aviation, submarine warfare, espionage and the emotional aftermath of war. In this conversation, Sir Tim reflects on family history, courage, trauma, ambition and the difficult decisions that shape generations.
In this episode:
• Why Tough Choices began as a family record
• The real-life story of a 12-year-old running away to the Amazon
• Early aviation, war and survival
• Submarine command at just 23
• The psychological toll of conflict and espionage
• Why the women in the story became central to the book
• Whether family history shapes the next generation
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
01:43 Why Sir Tim wrote Tough Choices
03:37 Family letters and real source material
04:35 A young submariner in wartime
06:30 Fiction rooted in extraordinary truth
08:12 Running away to the Amazon at 12
12:38 Early aviation and a devastating crash
16:31 From grandfather to father
20:58 War, espionage and psychological trauma
25:42 The women who held the family together
27:11 How one generation shapes the next
32:13 Is the book hopeful?
34:24 Lessons for modern readers
38:25 Will Sir Tim write another book?
40:57 Final thoughts
Listen on your favourite podcast platform:
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/48XhkPq
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6oflXd2H8V0akKuPttSUfb
iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/326179226
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/cc98bcc7-d3d9-4a55-8fba-fb23cbbd83dd
Subscribe for more in-depth author interviews and conversations.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>25342,author,books,chris,conversations,dabbs,espionage,family,fiction,historical,history,interview,military,sir,stories,submarine,tim,war,warfare,worldfalse16fullSteven Cole Interview | NASA Engineer Explains the Holy Spirit | Author Conversations with Chris Dabbshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/steven-cole-interview-nasa-engineer-explains-the-holy-spirit-author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--71255592What happens when science meets faith?

In this episode of Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs, former NASA engineer Steven Cole Chris speaks to former NASA engineer Steven Cole about faith, science and his interpretation of the Holy Spirit.
He shares the thinking behind his book Catch the Wave — and explores one of the most profound and debated topics: the Holy Spirit.
Drawing on his background in engineering and problem-solving, Steven offers a unique perspective on belief, spirituality and how faith can be understood through a different lens.
This is not a typical conversation. It’s thoughtful, reflective and grounded in real experience.

In this episode:
• How an engineering mindset shapes faith
• The meaning of the Holy Spirit in everyday life
• The story behind Catch the Wave
• Bridging science and spirituality

Work with Chris Dabbs and bring your or your clients' books to life:
www.chrisdabbs.online

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71255592Sat, 25 Apr 2026 15:57:02 +0000Chris DabbsWhat happens when science meets faith? In this episode of Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs, former NASA engineer Steven Cole Chris speaks to former NASA engineer Steven Cole about faith, science and his interpretation of the Holy Spirit. He...What happens when science meets faith?

In this episode of Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs, former NASA engineer Steven Cole Chris speaks to former NASA engineer Steven Cole about faith, science and his interpretation of the Holy Spirit.
He shares the thinking behind his book Catch the Wave — and explores one of the most profound and debated topics: the Holy Spirit.
Drawing on his background in engineering and problem-solving, Steven offers a unique perspective on belief, spirituality and how faith can be understood through a different lens.
This is not a typical conversation. It’s thoughtful, reflective and grounded in real experience.

In this episode:
• How an engineering mindset shapes faith
• The meaning of the Holy Spirit in everyday life
• The story behind Catch the Wave
• Bridging science and spirituality

Work with Chris Dabbs and bring your or your clients' books to life:
www.chrisdabbs.online

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>2124author,belief,chrisdabbs,christianity,engineer,faith,holyspirit,interview,nasa,podcast,religion,science,spirituality,stevencolefalse15fullLida Lee Roberts Interview | Faith, Truth and a Life-Changing Photo | Author Conversations with Chris Dabbshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/lida-lee-roberts-interview-faith-truth-and-a-life-changing-photo-author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--71635230 (00:00:08) Introducing Liederly Lee Roberts
(00:00:26) The Transformative Power of Jesus' Appearance
(00:01:44) The Simple Path to God's Love
(00:03:03) Understanding Sin and God's Love
(00:11:23) The Importance of Scripture and the Holy Spirit
(00:16:42) Taking the First Step Towards God
(00:22:49) The Antichrist and Biblical Truths
(00:31:32) The Miraculous Photograph from the Mount of Olives
(00:38:16) Closing Remarks and Contact Information

👉 A conversation on faith, truth and a moment that changed everything

In this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks with Lida Lee Roberts, author of Quit Lying to My Children!

Lida shares the story behind her first book, her personal journey of faith, and the experience in Jerusalem that led to a photograph she believes changed everything.

The conversation explores themes of truth, forgiveness, spiritual understanding and the role of the Holy Spirit in everyday life.

Lida also discusses why she believes faith has been made unnecessarily complicated, and how a simple, personal connection with God can begin.

The full book is available via her website.

Audio updated on April 28 2026 to improve quality

🎧 Listen, follow and share for more author interviews and conversations.

⏱️ Episode Chapters
00:00 Introduction
02:05 Meet Lida Lee Roberts
04:12 The meaning behind the book title
10:31 Faith, forgiveness and simplicity
19:37 Taking the first step towards God
24:08 Silence and reflection
25:33 Discussion on belief and interpretation
33:59 The Jerusalem experience
38:21 The photograph
40:03 Personal meaning behind the image
41:42 Where to find Lida Lee Roberts

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71635230Sat, 25 Apr 2026 15:13:30 +0000Chris Dabbs👉 A conversation on faith, truth and a moment that changed everything In this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks with Lida Lee Roberts, author of Quit Lying to My Children! Lida shares the story behind her first book, her personal... (00:00:08) Introducing Liederly Lee Roberts
(00:00:26) The Transformative Power of Jesus' Appearance
(00:01:44) The Simple Path to God's Love
(00:03:03) Understanding Sin and God's Love
(00:11:23) The Importance of Scripture and the Holy Spirit
(00:16:42) Taking the First Step Towards God
(00:22:49) The Antichrist and Biblical Truths
(00:31:32) The Miraculous Photograph from the Mount of Olives
(00:38:16) Closing Remarks and Contact Information

👉 A conversation on faith, truth and a moment that changed everything

In this episode of Author Conversations, Chris Dabbs speaks with Lida Lee Roberts, author of Quit Lying to My Children!

Lida shares the story behind her first book, her personal journey of faith, and the experience in Jerusalem that led to a photograph she believes changed everything.

The conversation explores themes of truth, forgiveness, spiritual understanding and the role of the Holy Spirit in everyday life.

Lida also discusses why she believes faith has been made unnecessarily complicated, and how a simple, personal connection with God can begin.

The full book is available via her website.

Audio updated on April 28 2026 to improve quality

🎧 Listen, follow and share for more author interviews and conversations.

⏱️ Episode Chapters
00:00 Introduction
02:05 Meet Lida Lee Roberts
04:12 The meaning behind the book title
10:31 Faith, forgiveness and simplicity
19:37 Taking the first step towards God
24:08 Silence and reflection
25:33 Discussion on belief and interpretation
33:59 The Jerusalem experience
38:21 The photograph
40:03 Personal meaning behind the image
41:42 Where to find Lida Lee Roberts

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>2395children author,conversations chris,dabbs book,discussion religion,faith spirituality faith,interview,interview christian,lee,lida,lying,my,podcast author,roberts quit,tofalse14fullSteve Denton Interview | Finding Strength Through Faith | Author Conversations with Chris Dabbshttps://www.thepodcast.studio/author-conversations-steve-denton-gracefully-brokenAuthor Conversations with Chris Dabbs, Chris speaks to Steve Denton about his book Gracefully Broken: Finding Strength Through Faith.

They discuss personal resilience, faith and the experiences that shaped Steve’s journey and writing.
A thoughtful conversation about overcoming challenges and finding meaning through difficult moments.

Steve discusses the challenges that tested his resilience, the role of faith in navigating difficult moments, and why stories of struggle often become the foundation for hope and growth. The conversation explores how adversity can lead to renewed purpose and how sharing honest experiences can encourage others facing similar situations.

This interview offers insight into the writing process, the themes behind the book, and the wider message Steve hopes readers will take from it.

Author Conversations is a professionally hosted interview series featuring writers, thinkers and experts sharing the stories behind their work.

Host: Chris Dabbs Broadcast journalist, presenter and podcast producer.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71235749Fri, 10 Apr 2026 17:25:52 +0000Chris DabbsIn this episode of Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs, Chris speaks to Steve Denton about his book Gracefully Broken: Finding Strength Through Faith. They discuss personal resilience, faith and the experiences that shaped Steve’s journey and...Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs, Chris speaks to Steve Denton about his book Gracefully Broken: Finding Strength Through Faith.

They discuss personal resilience, faith and the experiences that shaped Steve’s journey and writing.
A thoughtful conversation about overcoming challenges and finding meaning through difficult moments.

Steve discusses the challenges that tested his resilience, the role of faith in navigating difficult moments, and why stories of struggle often become the foundation for hope and growth. The conversation explores how adversity can lead to renewed purpose and how sharing honest experiences can encourage others facing similar situations.

This interview offers insight into the writing process, the themes behind the book, and the wider message Steve hopes readers will take from it.

Author Conversations is a professionally hosted interview series featuring writers, thinkers and experts sharing the stories behind their work.

Host: Chris Dabbs Broadcast journalist, presenter and podcast producer.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>1703author,book,books,challenges,chris,christian,conversations,dabbs,denton,faith,inspirational,interview,life,personal,process,resilience,steve,story,writingfalse13fullPeter Dingus Interview | The End of the World Explained | Author Conversations with Chris Dabbshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/peter-dingus-interview-the-end-of-the-world-explained-author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--70556430Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs, Author Peter Dingus, PhD, joins broadcaster Chris Dabbs to discuss his science fiction novella The End of the World and the deeper ideas behind his work.

They explore the ideas behind the story, the inspiration for the book and how Peter approaches big, existential themes through fiction.

This is a conversation about storytelling at scale — and what it means to imagine the end of everything.

Before becoming a novelist, Peter Dingus worked in physics and engineering with organisations including École Polytechnique in Paris, CERN in Geneva and Lockheed. That scientific background shapes the way he approaches storytelling — blending real science, deep time and philosophical questions about humanity’s future.

In this conversation we explore:
• The ideas behind The End of the World
• How physics influences science fiction writing
• Why civilisation itself may be humanity’s greatest challenge
• The relationship between science and imagination
• What science fiction can teach us about our future

This long-form interview explores the thinking behind Peter Dingus’ writing and the questions that drive his work.

Watch the full video interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/we0FhgZKe1M

00:00 Introduction
01:10 Peter Dingus background
05:40 From physics to fiction
12:15 Writing The End of the World
20:30 Science and storytelling
32:00 Civilisation and survival
44:20 Humanity’s future
54:30 Advice for writers
59:00 Closing thoughts

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70556430Mon, 09 Mar 2026 23:05:15 +0000Chris DabbsIn this episode of Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs, Author Peter Dingus, PhD, joins broadcaster Chris Dabbs to discuss his science fiction novella The End of the World and the deeper ideas behind his work. They explore the ideas behind the...Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs, Author Peter Dingus, PhD, joins broadcaster Chris Dabbs to discuss his science fiction novella The End of the World and the deeper ideas behind his work.

They explore the ideas behind the story, the inspiration for the book and how Peter approaches big, existential themes through fiction.

This is a conversation about storytelling at scale — and what it means to imagine the end of everything.

Before becoming a novelist, Peter Dingus worked in physics and engineering with organisations including École Polytechnique in Paris, CERN in Geneva and Lockheed. That scientific background shapes the way he approaches storytelling — blending real science, deep time and philosophical questions about humanity’s future.

In this conversation we explore:
• The ideas behind The End of the World
• How physics influences science fiction writing
• Why civilisation itself may be humanity’s greatest challenge
• The relationship between science and imagination
• What science fiction can teach us about our future

This long-form interview explores the thinking behind Peter Dingus’ writing and the questions that drive his work.

Watch the full video interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/we0FhgZKe1M

00:00 Introduction
01:10 Peter Dingus background
05:40 From physics to fiction
12:15 Writing The End of the World
20:30 Science and storytelling
32:00 Civilisation and survival
44:20 Humanity’s future
54:30 Advice for writers
59:00 Closing thoughts

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>3716author,books,dabbs,fiction,future,novel,philosophy,science,scifi,space,writingfalse12fullIntroducing Author Conversations with Chris Dabbshttp://authors.podview.comEvery book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70556356Mon, 09 Mar 2026 22:37:42 +0000Chris DabbsEvery book has a story beyond its pages. In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that...Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

Every book has a story beyond its pages.

In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.

Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing.

From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism,
Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books.

Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.]]>119author,author_conversations,books,chris,chrisdabbs,dabbs,literature,podcast,writers,writingfalse1trailer