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Author 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...
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Author 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 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.
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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.
Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs
Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs
Chris Dabbs The Podcast StudioSupport the Podcast
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Transcribed
14 JUL 2026 · Is 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 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: https://www.raydenyerauthor.com
🎙️ https://www.author-conversations.com/ray-denyer— conversations with authors about the stories behind their books and the lives behind the stories.
https://youtu.be/iVv_hNqqoig 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.
Transcribed
8 JUL 2026 · "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:
https://a.co/d/0d9SpQjI
👤 Pamela's Amazon Author Page:
https://www.amazon.com/stores/Pamela-Wallace/author/B0FGG75XLV
🌐 Episode page:
https://www.author-conversations.com/pamela-wallace
🎥 Watch on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/CfN4eV7qpRI
🎙️ Author Conversations playlist:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKvJWtF1TjJWiVvwbeJUjYLCJhZ2EUSki&si=wecNeL2meL3nKJTY
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.
Transcribed
6 JUL 2026 · “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 https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKvJWtF1TjJWiVvwbeJUjYLCJhZ2EUSki&si=wecNeL2meL3nKJTY 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.
Transcribed
29 JUN 2026 · “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
🎧 Official Author Conversations Podcast Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKvJWtF1TjJWiVvwbeJUjYLCJhZ2EUSki&si=wecNeL2meL3nKJTY
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: hhttps://ttps//thecrookeddogseries.comhttps://ttps//thecrookeddogseries.com
📚 Books:
- 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 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.
Transcribed
24 JUN 2026 · 📡 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: https://daviddyeauthor.com
Buy the book: https://a.co/d/0gjJCshb
🎧 Listen to More Author Conversations Official Author Conversations podcast page: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKvJWtF1TjJWiVvwbeJUjYLCJhZ2EUSki&si=wecNeL2meL3nKJTY
⭐ 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.
Transcribed
23 JUN 2026 · “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.
Transcribed
23 JUN 2026 · “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.
Transcribed
22 JUN 2026 · “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.
Transcribed
20 JUN 2026 · “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: https://authorcliffloriot.com/
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1807643662/?utm_source=Organic&utm_medium=Sovereign+Lord+Yahweh+Spoken+Roared
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.
Transcribed
20 JUN 2026 · “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, 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
https://tompotosnak.com/
https://www.amazon.com/Subject-Change-Sorta-Biography-Without-Cellphone-ebook/dp/B0DNKDXKDW/ref=sr_1_1
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.
Join “Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs” Supporters Club
Start supporting this podcast and become part of their community.
Author 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...
show more
Author 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 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.
show less
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.
Information
| Author | Chris Dabbs The Podcast Studio |
| Organization | Chris Dabbs The Podcast Studio |
| Categories | Books , Society & Culture , Fiction |
| Website | - |
| info@author-conversations.com |
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