The Book Connection

From HAL in "2001: A Space Odyssey" to today's Siri and Alexa, the dream of talking to computers has long captivated us. In this episode, we speak with Dr. William Meisel, author of "The Lost History of 'Talking to Computers'," about the decades-long quest to make science fiction a reality.  Dr. Meisel, who founded a speech recognition company in the 1980s, share...

With a background in group insurance and financial services, Charles W. Gragg brings a wealth of knowledge to the complex problem of rising healthcare costs. In this episode, we sit down with the author of "Get Off The Hamster-Wheel" to discuss his unique perspective on a very complex problem. He'll share how his expertise in designing and implementing unique healthcare plans led hi...

After decades of burying his emotions and living a life of not knowing who he was, author Ted Hood's own emotional journey inspired his novel, "Metamorphosis."  In this episode, we explore how his personal quest for self-discovery influenced the story of two characters who must break down their own emotional walls. Ted shares how his late-life "prodigal experience" and the...

Embark on a gripping journey with author Jenesis Prioleau as she shares the inspiration behind her debut novel, "Quantum Mortality."  This book is not just a sci-fi thriller; it's a profound journey of discovery where the protagonist must uncover strange connections between dimensions to survive.  Jenesis shares her passion for exploring the mysteries of existence and creating intri...

What if a book could offer multiple paths to a single destination? In this episode, we sit down with author Kathleen Faflik to discuss her unique novel, "Six Journeys of Love & Light."  Her book features a choose-your-own-adventure style, with six stories that follow musician Trish Clark through a wild ride of paranormal activities, unstable relationships, and adventures in New Mexic...

From Val Trebbia and Val Boreca to the world stage, two friends have come together to tell a remarkable story.  Join us as we chat with co-authors Paolo Zanardi and Sergio Bossi, alongside translator Ben Catt, about "Wellington HZ182," their book that weaves together wartime history and a modern-day mission. We'll explore their collaborative process, what inspired this unique narrat...

In a world full of clichés and well-intentioned but unhelpful advice, what do we really need to hear when we're grieving?  In this episode, we talk with Pastor Cheryl Bay about her book, "What Not to Say," which provides an honest look at what it truly means to support someone in pain. While the story is born from the loss of a loved one, the lessons are universal, offering a path t...

Get ready to geek out on some serious motorcycle history. In this episode, we talk with author Stefan Oehl about his book, "Kawasaki Superbikes: Z1000 D & S," which explores the most futuristic production motorcycle of its time.  We dive into the groundbreaking technical innovations of the 1978 Z1000, from lower emissions to improved aerodynamics. Stefan reveals fascinating details,...

Whether you lead a company, a nonprofit, or your own family, there are foundational principles that create lasting impact.  Today we're joined by author Larry Hartmann, who shares insights from his book, "7 Pillars of Inspired Leadership." Drawing on his experience as a CEO and entrepreneur, Larry provides a roadmap for mastering seven essential elements of leadership.  This convers...

Beyond productivity hacks and mindset shifts, what if you could change the way you engage with life itself?  We're joined by author Johnny Lam, who reveals how to do just that in his book, "YOU ARE PLAYER 1 in the Game of Life." He shares his game-inspired philosophy, which helps you build motivation and purpose by treating every task as a quest. We explore how to find joy in explor...

For fans of military history and espionage, this is a must-watch. We sit down with Dr. Anthony R. Wells, author of “The Pursuit of Peace and Freedom," to get an unfiltered look into the intelligence community. He shares his firsthand experiences from Bletchley Park, the Royal Navy, and now declassified U.S.-U.K. operations.  The book is a gripping tapestry of unsung heroes and pivotal moments...

With a background in both medical and holistic healing, today’s guest author, Margaret Planting, offers a unique perspective on the journey to wellness. Our insightful conversation explores her personal awakening and the discoveries made along the way to finding inner peace. Her deeply personal story, Ruby-Red Sneakers serves as a powerful reminder for all of us: you are presently worthy of a joyf...

Why are some modern denominations accused of compromising on the factual accuracy of the Bible? In this episode, we dive into this critical question with author John, whose book Denominations: From God or Man? Volume Three seeks to provide answers.  He discusses how two groups in particular, the Presbyterian and Methodist churches, have approached the authority of Scripture in ways that raise ques...

Mike Stonecypher’s path to writing children’s books is a story in itself. After a career and raising his own family, it was the joy of becoming a grandfather that finally prompted him to reflect on his own stories and bring them to life. In this episode, we delve into what motivated Mike to write his delightful children's book set in a vibrant forest. We’ll explore his path to becoming a writ...

What can near-death experiences teach us about God, life, and the afterlife? Join us for a fascinating discussion with Todd Michael Jackson, a passionate NDE researcher and author of God > Religion .  Todd shares his unique perspective on the soul's journey, illuminating the interconnectedness of all things and the eternal nature of our being.  This episode will challenge your perceptions...

As a family physician and addiction medicine specialist, Dr. Kurt Bravata has a mission to find wholeness and to help others do the same. In this interview, we dive into his new book, Live Free or Diet , and what inspired his passion for a holistic approach to health. Dr. Bravata explains how cultivating the right mindset and implementing a holistic lifestyle, with faith as the foundation, can hel...

The COVID-19 pandemic challenged organizations on every level, forcing them to cancel projects, halt travel, and rethink how they operate. In this episode, we talk to Dr. Robert S. Littlefield, author of Resilience and Renewal: The Story of Lions International and the Crisis of COVID-19 , about how Lions International faced these challenges head-on.  He reveals how the organization embraced social...

How can you grow as a leader in today's fast-paced world? In this episode, we sit down with practicing executive and author, Eugene Toh, to discuss his book, Eureka Moments of Leadership . This isn't your typical leadership manual. Inspired by his popular LinkedIn newsletter, Eugene shares leadership lessons in real-time, drawn from his own ongoing experience. If you're a leader loo...

What if the keys to a more fulfilling spiritual life aren’t found in a list of rules, but in a profound relationship with Christ? In this episode, we sit down with author and seasoned minister, Randy Blan, to explore his latest work, Beyond Law and Order: Finding Intimacy with Christ When Rules Get in the Way . Drawing from decades of experience, Randy offers a beacon of hope for those who feel di...

What if your own struggles could lead to a profound discovery, inspiring a ripple effect of change? In The Magic of Making a Difference , Dr. Marlena Uhrik invites readers into the heartwarming, true story of her eight-year-old daughter’s simple act that transformed her life and ignited a passion to fight childhood hunger.  This inspiring book details the a-ha moment that propelled a single mom to...

What does it take to bring an unfinished manuscript from a prolific author to light decades later? Today, we explore the extraordinary story behind The Trial of John Garrity with the son of its original author, Milton Bass.  Discover how this gripping legal thriller, penned in the 70s and 80s, became a collaborative effort after Milton's passing, completed by his son with the invaluable insig...

We’re delighted to welcome back our guest, Stefan Oehl, for the fifth time, this time to talk about Kawasaki Superbikes: Z1300 . From his extensive career in aviation technical departments to his unwavering passion for Kawasaki motorcycles, our author brings a meticulous eye to this iconic superbike.  This conversation offers a unique blend of technical expertise and genuine enthusiasm for these p...

Written by a retired cardiothoracic surgeon with 35 years of firsthand experience in the healthcare system, Toxic Intent offers a unique and authentic perspective on the industry's advances and failures. This gripping novel delves into the potential dangers of unchecked foreign drug manufacturing and the pervasive threat of narcotic trafficking.  Listen to author Brian Hummel share real-world...

For Harry Hadlock, a lifelong fascination with comic books, drawing, and UFO theories has culminated in his gripping debut novel, Inversions: Chapter 1 . Join us as Harry discusses what motivated him to craft this chilling tale of planetary invasions and the dark side of alien encounters. He'll share how his extensive research and passion for the unknown shaped a narrative where a peaceful ra...

This isn't your typical book about mind, body, and spirit—it’s one that’s packed with sharp wit and transformative insights. In Sourcery 101 , former stand-up comedian Justin Shaw weaves humor with profound wisdom, examining the 13 Rungs to a Higher Elevation of Consciousness. Justin empowers you to wake up, unplug, and live your truth by showing you how to get better at feeling.  This book i...