The Book Connection

"The Truth Will Set You Free" explores a controversial look at the Dark Ages and the actions of those in power who the author believes changed sacred texts.  We sit down with Jeff Olson to discuss the specific epiphanies that sparked this series and the "lost" stories he is seeking to bring back to light. Join us for a deep dive into this unique spiritual narrative. Check out a...

It’s a story that captured international headlines: an American executive caught in the turbulent political landscape of Venezuela. Today, we sit down with Jorge L. Toledo to discuss his harrowing journey as a political prisoner and his fight for freedom.  Jorge sheds light on the "hostage diplomacy" that led to his arrest and the 1,775 days that followed. From the physical torture of th...

Born in a country farmhouse in 1926, Colonel Charles Cone has witnessed nearly a century of human history from the cockpit. We sit down with this 99-year-old veteran to discuss his deeply personal memoir, “A Burning Desire to Fly.” From his early obsession with naval aviation to flying combat missions in Korea and Vietnam, Col. Charles shares a story of resilience that spans the Cold War and beyon...

Carla Jean Johnson didn't just write a book about birds; she lived it. With over thirty years of experience rehabilitating wild birds and writing for national magazines like Women’s Health & Fitness, Carla brings an unmistakable authenticity to her thriller, "All for the Birds."  In this episode, we talk about the thin line between protection and obsession and how her real-life...

With a background in Early Childhood Education and Linguistics, Amy Dost knows exactly how to capture a child's imagination through language. In this episode, we talk with Amy (whose name rhymes with toast!) about her transition from creating daily songs for her son to publishing her first book.  We explore the importance of reading aloud and how the rhythmic, repetitive nature of "Silly...

When extraordinary things start to happen, you can either go into denial or go along for the ride. Emily Wells chose to go along for the ride, and it has been more incredible than she ever imagined.  In this episode, Emily reveals her heart-centered experiences with spirit guides and how she learned to clear non-beneficial energy from past lifetimes. If you’ve ever felt there was more to our reali...

If you think the justice system is built on a level playing field, Randy Schaffer is here to challenge that notion. In this interview, the author of "Tales as Old as Crime" details how criminal cases are actually made.  From prosecutors hiding evidence to the "laughter and pain" of the courtroom floor, Randy provides a fascinating and compelling look at the shortcomings and the...

From a daughter’s heart-melting transformation to a son’s lifelong friendship with angels, "Avocado Magic" is a story that resonates with every member of the family.  We sit down with author Peter Paul Licata to discuss his endearing characters, the inspiration behind this warm and engrossing tale, and why we all need a little bit of "magic" in our lives during tough times. Che...

Mental health statistics continue to rise at an increasing rate, yet the stigma often remains. We talk with author Jamie Trussell about "From Couch to Couch" and the transformative power of the ministry of presence.  Jamie traces his journey from a state of total despair to a life of purpose, highlighting how we can all "sit with others" and watch as God uses that presence to c...

At its heart, every great sci-fi story is about the people making the journey. Today, we sit down with author L. Scott Cisney to explore the expansive world-building in "Chronicles of the Gods." Scott shares how his lifelong passion for science fiction and his experiences informed the character of Terra Nova, a young girl thrust into a role as the "Mother" of a new civilization...

What happens when a lifetime of secrets finally meets the light of day? We're joined by author Tony Beadle to discuss his life as the secret son of a high-profile Boston priest.  In this episode, Tony discusses his memoir and the complex repertoire of lies his mother maintained to keep his existence a secret from their own relatives. We explore the emotional fallout of finally meeting his ext...

What if sustainable living actually meant having more money and more joy? In this episode, author Dr. Stuart W. Rose challenges the idea that "going green" requires sacrifice. In his handbook, "T, D, Gaia and Me," he illustrates how a shift in lifestyle can lead to a more joyous experience that is in perfect harmony with our planet. This conversation offers specific, actionable...

In his debut poetry collection, sex and oatmeal, Eric Guilmette lives in the space between the honeyed rush of intimacy and the thick, cold quiet that follows. We sit down with the actor, producer, and poet to discuss how he captures the "messiness" of human connection.  Eric shares the inspiration behind his emotionally honest and refreshingly vulnerable voice, offering a mirror for any...

To some, "good" or "okay" is enough—but for the ambitious, it’s simply a challenge to evolve. We sit down with Switzerland-based development coach Cotton Bains to discuss his book and philosophy, "The Excellent Choice," and the strategies he has cultivated to support ambitious minds worldwide. He shares his professional fulfillment in seeing his clients succeed and ho...

Known for her relatable and concise writing style in children’s books, Cynthia Dewindt brings that same authentic voice to her most personal work yet, “Ain’t You Tired? How I Escaped Hell to Happiness” In this episode, we explore her journey from a stay-at-home mom in Brooklyn to a CNA and published author. Cynthia discusses the life lessons presented in her book and her intention to help those ov...

Christy Sauro Jr. wasn't just a witness to the legacy of the Twins Platoon; he lived it. In this episode, the former Marine Sergeant shares his deeply personal account of serving in Vietnam from 1967 to 1969.  Christy discusses the inspiration behind his book, "The Legacy of the Twins Platoon," and why he felt compelled to document the transition from being honored at a baseball gam...

After a career treating neurological disorders, Dr. Claudia Cassidy Bennett discovered the profound power of emotions when she began caring for her mother with Alzheimer’s. In this episode, Dr. Bennett offers a deeply personal account of her journey in "Caregiving Reimagined."  She candidly shares her struggles and triumphs, encouraging caregivers to see this role as an opportunity to st...

We all need a sense of purpose, but how do we connect our daily actions to our future success? Author Marc Dickerson joins us to discuss "Priorities, Roles, and Goals: The Program." Marc shares the vital truth that the present moment will inevitably catch up with you—yielding good or bad outcomes.  This conversation dives into understanding what truly matters to you and why realizing the...

Your body wears trained states of mind, and your brain wears the body—but what does that mean for a child’s emotions? We sit down with Dr. Christopher Slaton, practitioner of Human Systems Science (HSS), to discuss his book, “Human Systems Science In the Best Interest of the Child’s Mental Health and Self-Awareness.” Dr. Slaton explores the complex dance between a child’s mental health and the con...

Inspired by literary giants like C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and George Macdonald, author J.A. Aleman wants to write "words worth reading"—words filled with depth and beauty.  In this episode, he discusses his fantasy adventure, "Journey to the Heart: Book 1." J.A. shares how these influences shaped his own story about a supreme king and a teenager's venture into uncharted...

In the world of church planting, is it truly about numbers, buildings, and visible success, or something deeper? Dr. Stephen Leston offers a revolutionary approach: first love people, then make disciples, and then form those disciples into local churches. In this episode, the missionary and trainer shares the wisdom and personal stories compiled in his book, "From the Ground Up." Dr. Les...

How do you reconcile natural selection and evolution worldviews with creationism and intelligent design? Author Robert L. Hilton joins us to discuss "The Book on the Shelf," a study that fearlessly tackles the big questions.  Robert examines archaeological evidence, dives into the origin of an imperfect world, and explores the idea of random selection versus intelligent design.  This con...

Dr. Charles A. Taylor is a nationally recognized author, speaker, and consultant whose work has profoundly shaped the understanding and celebration of Juneteenth across the United States. In this episode, the acclaimed author and advocate shares the inspiration behind his latest work, “Juneteenth: The Promise of Freedom.”  Dr. Taylor discusses his lifelong mission to honor the legacy of freedom an...

When faced with an unimaginable diagnosis, how do you find faith and inner strength? We're joined by speaker and author Juliet Nkiruka Uzoma to discuss her memoir, "Flowers of Courage."  Juliet shares how her journey through breast cancer became a profound exploration of personal fortitude, guiding her from a place of weakness to one of power. This conversation will inspire you to f...

Could a distant continent hold the key to healing a grieving heart? In this episode, Author Tami Loehrs discusses her book, “Africa . . .Table for One,” and shares how a transformative journey through Africa began to restore her soul after the devastating loss of her husband. She recounts extraordinary encounters with wildlife, including a profound connection with the gorillas that touched her spi...