Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt - Book Talk Podcast

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Bleeped word: m@ss@creHello My Happy People,This week on Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt — Book Talk Podcast, award-winning journalist Joe Battaglia joins the show to discuss his international thriller Beneath the Rings, a suspense-filled novel set during the 2040 Summer Olympics in Doha.With more than three decades in journalism and over twenty years covering the Olympic movement, Joe brings a rare insider perspective to the world of elite athletics, media pressure, and the global spectacle surrounding the Games. He worked with NBC Olympics, contributing to Emmy-winning coverage of the Beijing and London Summer Olympics. Joe discusses his path from journalism into publishing, beginning with his self-published children’s book The ABCs of Track and Field, an educational alphabet book introducing young readers to the history, athletes, and excitement of track and field. He shares how the experience taught him the realities of the publishing industry and gave him the confidence to move forward with the thriller he had long wanted to write.In Beneath the Rings, veteran journalist Nova Mendelsohn is pulled into a terrifying international crisis when twelve athletes vanish during the Olympic Games. As governments, media officials, and powerful organizations scramble to control the narrative, Nova races through the shadows of Doha searching for the truth before time runs out.His thriller Beneath the Rings was recently awarded Gold in the 2026 Manhattan Book Awards.If you enjoy political thrillers, international suspense, and Olympic drama, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.Joe's WebsiteJoe on FacebookJoe on InstagramJoe on TikTokJoe on Bookshop.orgJoe on AmazonSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Today we’re exploring a new young adult suspense novel by Tara Hodgson that is sure to spark more than one in-depth conversation.When a teen’s search for a new identity turns into something far more dangerous, Reese finds herself pulled into a world that feels exciting and freeing at first, but quickly reveals a darker side. Drawn in by a new friendship and the attention of someone who seems to offer everything she’s been missing, Reese begins to ignore the warning signs. What starts as a chance to escape the pressure of being perfect quickly shifts into something far more dangerous, where manipulation, control, and fear begin to take hold.As girls start disappearing from nearby towns and behavior becomes more unpredictable, the story highlights how easily vulnerability can be exploited, especially in a world shaped by social media and constant connection. It raises questions about trust, identity, and how quickly situations can escalate when instincts are pushed aside.Tara Hodgson joins the show to talk about At Least I’m Trying, her second novel, and how it builds on the themes she introduced in her debut, Chasing Through Time. Both books center on the emotional realities teens face while navigating relationships, identity, and the pressures of a technology-driven world. Through her work, she explores how social media, isolation, and the need for connection can shape decisions and outcomes in ways that are not always immediately visible.As a teacher in the Canadian school system, Tara has seen firsthand how these challenges impact students, their friendships, and their families. She brings that perspective into her writing, creating stories that reflect real situations teens are facing today while opening the door for meaningful conversation.Tara's WebsiteTara on FacebookTara on InstagramTara on AmazonTara on !ndiSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy People,In this episode of Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt–Book Talk Podcast, I sit down with author Sylvia Clare to talk about her book Travelling the Alphabet Geographically and a life shaped by writing, travel, and personal growth. Sylvia began publishing over thirty years ago and has continued to write ever since, sharing deeply personal reflections on mental health, post-traumatic stress, nature, and love.Her latest work follows a unique goal that turned into a lifetime of travel, visiting at least one country for every letter of the alphabet. What began as a way to escape fear and trauma gradually became something more, a way of moving toward healing, connection, and a deeper understanding of the world.Sylvia and I are part of the same memoir writing group, so I’ve had the opportunity to see her work up close. We are both neurodivergent, which adds another layer of understanding to our conversation and to the way we approach creativity and life. Her writing is thoughtful, honest, and deeply engaging, and I’m excited to share both her story and her perspective with you.We also talk about her work teaching mindfulness for people with neurodivergent challenges, her storytelling performances, and how creativity continues to shape her life.This is an engaging conversation about resilience, transformation, and what it means to keep growing, no matter where you are in life.Clarity-Books.comSylvia on AmazonSylvia on FacebookSylvia on YouTubeSylvia on MediumSylvia on SubstackDon't forget to check out S5 EP 216 and help us hit #1Support the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My happy People,Today I am sharing my chat with multi-award-winning author D.I. Jolly (known as Jolly). He discovered his passion for storytelling at just seven years old after playing the video game Gabriel Knight. Captivated by the character, he decided early on that he would be a writer.It would be several years before his dream would become a reality when he unintentionally wrote his first book, A Guy, A Girl and A Voodoo Monkey Hand, as a teenager. That milestone proved to him that writing wasn’t just a dream, it was something he could actually do. Since then, his work has evolved from comedic noir into more serious, thought-provoking stories, often exploring deeper themes through pop culture-driven genres.Originally from South Africa, Jolly has lived in several countries and now resides in Berlin, Germany. His writing spans a wide range of genres, including psychological thrillers, paranormal romance, fantasy, and an incredible collection of short fiction. Beyond novels, he has also worked as a story writer for the sci-fi strategy game Nexus 5X and founded a monthly poetry and writing event.While Jolly's current profession does feed his creativity, he still hopes to one day write books full-time. His stories are more than entertainment, he aims to create something that makes people think, feel, or see things differently. His book Blurred Lines is a great example of his incredible creativity.Listen now to learn more about Jolly and his work.Jolly's WebsiteJolly's Berlin Poetry ClubRead Blurred Lines Page 1Jolly on LinktreeJolly on AmazonBuy Blurred LinesSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy People,Today’s episode features my incredible conversation with Lady Dr. Dhyana Ziegler, author of Midnight Train from Georgia. This powerful memoir chronicles the rise of Gladys Knight and the Pips through the eyes of founding member William Franklin Guest, offering a rare, behind-the-scenes look at one of music’s most iconic groups.From humble beginnings singing in a small Atlanta church to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Dr. Ziegler shares the deeply personal story of family, faith, and the sacrifices behind success. But this conversation goes far beyond the book.We also discuss her remarkable career as a professor, multimedia creator, information technology educator, songwriter and arranger, along with the honors she has received for her work in academia, including being awarded the title of Dame Commander of Justice (DCJ). Her accomplishments stand on their own, making her story just as compelling as the one she tells about the music that shaped generations.We also touch on the broader cultural impact of her family’s legacy, including their connection to Michael Jackson and other artists of the time, as well as her personal connections to the Apollo Theater, Walter Cronkite, and Alex Haley, just to name a few. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Ziegler highlights William Guest’s legacy, the lasting impact of Gladys Knight and the Pips, and what she hopes readers take away from this inspiring story. If you love music history, memoirs, and stories rooted in culture and resilience, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.Midnight Train From Georgia Info SiteDr. Ziegler's WebsiteZ/creators, LLCMidnight Train From Georgia VideoBuy on AmazonBuy on Bookshop.orgTime Moves On Performed by StruttSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Two bleeped words: b0mb!ng, T3rror!stsHello My happy People,Michael Hingson has spent his life proving that limitations are often more about perception than reality. Blind since birth, he was raised by sighted parents who believed strongly in independence and encouraged him to live life fully. He grew up doing many of the same things as other kids, riding bikes, mastering math in his head, and learning to read and write in Braille. He later earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in physics from the University of California, Irvine, and spent nearly thirty years working in the high-tech industry.His life changed dramatically on September 11, 2001, when he and his guide dog Roselle safely evacuated the 78th floor of Tower One in the World Trade Center moments before it collapsed. Their story of trust, courage, and teamwork captured international attention and later became the #1 New York Times bestselling book Thunder Dog: The True Story of a Blind Man, His Guide Dog, and the Triumph of Trust.Since that day, Hingson has traveled the world sharing his experiences and the lessons he learned about courage, teamwork, and perseverance. Our conversation explores what it means to face fear without letting it control you and learn how to move forward with confidence.His latest book, Live Like a Guide Dog: True Stories from a Blind Man and His Dogs about Being Brave, Overcoming Adversity, and Moving Forward in Faith, shares the principles he has learned from decades of working with guide dogs and how those lessons can help anyone overcome challenges, trust themselves, and live their lives with purpose.For speaking engagements email: [email protected]'s WebsiteMichael's PodcastBuy His BooksBuy Running with RoselleSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello Happy People,Today’s episode is a special April 1st podcast takeover of Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt — Book Talk Podcast... or is it?Sebastian Dureaux-Russell steps in as guest host, and for a minute, it might feel like you’ve landed in the wrong show. But stay with it, because this “takeover” has a twist.Sebastian is joined by his guest paranormal romance author, D.S. Stephens and the show focuses on her new Haunted Hearts series, a seven-book paranormal romance built from real ghost hunting experiences the author had in college. Starting with Book 1, Langston Watch Hotel, this series brings together real haunted locations, emotional tension, and that constant fight between science and belief.And if something about D.S. Stephens sounds a little familiar… well, you’re not imagining that either.This episode pulls back the curtain on how this romance author persona came to life, where the series is headed, and what’s coming next.So is this a takeover? Or is mischief afoot?Links to Sebastian Dureaux-Russell’s previous episode (S3 EP143) and website, along with D.S. Stephens social media, can be found below.Be sure to follow, share, and subscribe so you never miss an episode of Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt — Book Talk Podcast.Sebastian's S3 EP143 InterviewSebastian's WebsiteD.S. Stephens on BurckhardtBooks.comBurckhardtBooks LinkTreeSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Bleeped word: Murd3rHello My Happy People,We are down to the final two episodes of the Lovefest for Season 5, and today’s episode brings a little romance and a lot of heart. Romance author Maria Jane joins Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt — Book Talk Podcast to talk about love, storytelling, and the magic found in imperfect journeys.Maria Jane, the romance pen name of Tricia Copeland, believes that love is not always clean or easy, but it is always worth the ride. We spoke with Tricia in Season 4 episode 192 about her epic fantasy series the Realm Chronicles. Today we chat with her about her Perfect Romance series. This series delivers sweet moments, unexpected turns, and characters chasing their happily-ever-after or happy-for-now endings, all wrapped in stories that feel both fun and emotionally real.In this episode, we talk about her transition into romance, how her writing has evolved across genres, and the inspiration behind her Perfect Romance series. If you are looking for a story that reminds you why love is worth the chaos, this is one you will not want to miss.Maria's WebsiteMaria/Tricia on FacebookMaria/Tricia on InstagramMaria/Tricia on YouTubeMaria/Tricia on TikTokMaria on AmazonSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy People,Due to a brief illness, today’s episode is a  Best of Season 4 Lovefest replay. Be sure to check the listings on burckhardtbooks.com/podcast for updated scheduling.Today I am thrilled to bring you this Best of S4 Lovefest replay with another historical fiction author. Being one myself, I love promoting authors who take accuracy and research seriously, and today’s guest is definitely one of them.Barb Warner Deane is an award-winning author and public speaker who has given more than 130 presentations on American women in World War II, including at the Historical Writers of America conference in Williamsburg, Virginia.She attended Cornell University and the University of Connecticut School of Law. She grew up in New York’s Finger Lakes region and has lived in Frankfurt, Germany, and Shanghai, China.After leaving her law career, Barb opened Barb’s All Romance Book Store and later worked as a substitute teacher and in school tech and media. She has also been published as a travel writer and now writes full-time, alongside volunteer work and travel.Barb's WebsiteBarb on FacebookBarb on InstagramBarb on BookBubBarb on AmazonSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy People,We are heading into the homestretch of Lovefest for Season 5 but we still have some incredible authors to introduce you to before we are done. In this episode, I am sharing my thought-provoking chat with award-winning science fiction author Jeremy Clift. Jeremy is a former international news correspondent with Reuters and the creator of the Sci-Fi Galaxy saga.We touch on all of his books in this series and give you a detailed glimpse into his latest novel, Space Vault: The Seed Eclipse. In this second book in the series, his characters must fight for humanity’s future as the tide shifts from survival to control. As civilizations deal with climate collapse, food shortages, and corporate power overreach, will one genetically altered child determine what humanity becomes next?Jeremy shares how his background in journalism and global reporting shaped the ethical and political questions at the heart of his fiction, why genetic sovereignty and seed vaults became central themes in this book, and how moral choice drives the story forward. We also discuss writing complex futures without losing the human core, and what comes next in the Sci-Fi Galaxy universe.This is a conversation about power, protection, and the question at the heart of great science fiction. It's not just about how humanity survives, but who gets to decide what that survival looks like.Jeremy's WebsiteJeremy on Bookshop.orgJeremy on AmazonJeremy on TumblrJeremy on FacebookSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy People,Welcome to the last month of Lovefest. We move into March with a different kind of love: not romance, but the steady, sustaining love of friendship, mentorship, and belonging.Award-winning scriptwriter Kristine Jensen has spent her career shaping narratives across film, marketing, and documentary storytelling, earning three Telly Awards along the way. Now she brings that storytelling depth to her debut novel, Wednesday Club.Inspired by the real handwritten minutes of her grandmother’s rural women’s club in South Dakota, Wednesday Club takes readers back to 1963. Sixteen-year-old Ivy Hanson is sent to live on her grandparents’ farm after her Hollywood-bound mother leaves her behind. Reluctantly serving as secretary to a group of older women who meet monthly to discuss current events, serve their community, and share the realities of rural life, Ivy slowly finds herself drawn into their world.In this episode, Kristine shares how a box of forgotten notebooks that became the inspiration for her novel, what it took to write her first book while working full-time, and why stories about women and friendships matter.This Lovefest episode celebrates the love that holds communities together and the quiet power of women who show up for one another.Wednesday Club WebsiteWednesday Club on FacebookWednesday Club on InstagramBuy Wednesday ClubSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy People,We are wrapping up our first month of Lovefest, and this week we’re highlighting a dystopian kind of love story.Today, I am joined by award-winning author Monte Schulz to talk about Undercity, his chilling dystopian novel that explores authoritarian collapse, survival, and finding love in midst of it all.Monte always knew he wanted to be a storyteller and spent decades immersed in the creative arts. He earned his M.A. in American Studies from UC Santa Barbara, spent ten years crafting Crossing Eden, a sweeping Jazz Age epic, and has produced original music under the name Seraphonium. He not only has his own publications, he owns and teaches at the Santa Barbara Writers Conference, where he continues to mentor new writers. Raised in a home filled with creative energy (his father is Charles M. Schulz, the mind behind Peanuts) Monte carved out his own artistic legacy through music and fiction.In this episode, we talk about his writing process, how history informs his work, and what it means to create art that reflects the world we live in, and the one we hope for.Monte's WebsiteUndercity WebsiteMetropolis WebsiteMonte on FacebookSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy People,This episode continues our Lovefest celebration, and this time we’re exploring a different kind of love. Not the spark of romance, but the fierce, protective love that shows up in moments of crisis.In this episode of Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt, I sit down with Jacque Gorelick to talk about her forthcoming memoir, Map of a Heart: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and Finding the Way Home.After losing her mother at eight and spending her childhood searching for belonging, Jacque believed she had finally found stability in marriage and motherhood. Then an ordinary day ended in a frantic 911 call when her husband collapsed from cardiac arrest. What followed was a terrifying stretch in an ICU waiting room as she advocated for his life while caring for her newborn and navigating complicated family dynamics.In our conversation, we talk about balancing a medical crisis while managing motherhood, extended family, and the unexpected support that came from people in her life. We also discuss what it means to write through trauma and how putting lived experience on the page can come with its own emotional reckoning.If Lovefest is about honoring all forms of love, this episode is a powerful reminder that love is not just romantic. It is steadfast, sustaining, and sometimes revealed most clearly in the hardest moments.Jacque's WebsiteJacque on InstagramJacque on BluskyJacque on FacebookBuy Jacque's BookJacque on SubstackSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy People,We are keeping the Lovefest momentum going with today's guest. I get to share my chat with science fiction author and YouTuber John Newton. John's work blends historical science fiction, time travel, and big questions about faith, ethics, and choice. What is not to love about that?We talk about his novel The Healing Stone, the first book in the Shadows of Time series. Set in medieval Spain, the story follows a young man who discovers a mysterious stone capable of healing anything, just as a hidden war over time itself begins to unfold. It’s a time travel science fiction story rooted as much in human cost and moral responsibility as it is in history and speculation.John shares how his background in electrical engineering, robotics, and theology influences his world-building, why themes of healing and trauma run through his fiction, and how science fiction can explore faith and ethical dilemmas without becoming preachy or losing momentum. We also talk about mixing YouTube, writing, and storytelling, and where the Shadows of Time series is headed next. We even had the chance to geek-bond over quantum theory.It’s a thoughtful, approachable conversation about time travel, belief, and what happens when the power to heal collides with the consequences of changing history.John's WebsiteJohn's YouTube ChannelJohn on FacebookJohn on InstagramBuy His BooksSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Bleeped words: Murd3r3d x 4Hello My Happy People,Oh, how I missed you! But we are back with a BANG to start Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt—Book Talk Podcast Season 5. We are kicking off Lovefest with someone who embodies pure creative joy. E. K. Johnston is not only a multi-#1 New York Times bestselling author and a dedicated professional who takes her craft seriously, she is also an unapologetic Star Wars fan who ended up writing for the franchise while still being one of its biggest fans. In this episode, she talks about stepping into the galaxy far, far away to write Star Wars™: Ahsoka, what it means to love a franchise from both sides of the page, and why fandom has always been a natural part of her creative life. We also get into her love of LEGO® builds, including the massive Rivendell set that proves she has the patience of a saint and the heart of a true Lord of the Rings fan.E.K.'s personality really shines in this conversation. She is funny, warm, insightful, and intensely passionate about storytelling. Whether she is talking about her recent book Sky on Fire, her worldbuilding process, or her lifelong love of epic worlds and big ideas, her passion shows up in everything she does.She is the perfect person to open Lovefest because she reminds us all why we fall in love with stories in the first place. Her enthusiasm is contagious, her dedication is admirable, and her joy for her favorite fandoms makes this episode the best possible start to Season 5.Subscribe to Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt—Book Talk Podcast on your favorite podcast streaming service and never miss any of our amazing authors. E.K's WebsiteE.K. on InstagramE.K. on TumblerBuy E.K.'s BooksE.K. on Penguin Random HouseSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Happy Hiatus Finale People,I am so thrilled that we have reached the end of our Season 4 Hiatus! I think it is rather fitting that I get to share my incredible interview with award-winning author Joel Shulkin, MD, with all of you to celebrate. Not only is Joel a practicing physician, but he is also the author of engaging medical thrillers. There is nothing I love better than when actual professionals in the medical and criminal investigation fields write thrillers. You know you are going to get stories filled with accurate details that give you that extra something to really drive the drama. Joel is a developmental-behavioral pediatrician and United States Air Force veteran with a master’s in public health, and he has used this background to enhance his amazing storytelling. His books Adverse Effects and Toxic Effects, the first two novels in the Memory Thieves series are great examples. He has also penned award-winning short stories and poetry with more books already scheduled for 2026.  When we first chatted back in episode 175, we talked about his recent book Heroic Measures, a forensic technothriller in his new Death Benefits series. Joel lives in Florida with his wife, two daughters, and two dogs.Have you subscribed to our podcast yet? You don't want to miss out when we begin Season 5 next Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026!! Joel's WebsiteJoel on FacebookJoel on InstagramGet a Signed BookJoel on AmazonJoel on TikTokSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Bleeped words: naz!, prost!tuteHappy 2026 People,Dianne is excited to share this amazing Season 4 replay with you while we wait for Season 5 to begin. In this episode, you get to join her chat with romantic women's fiction author, Linda Hughes. For many years Linda worked internationally as a seminar leader and public speaker. It was her dream job. It allowed her to meet people from other countries and cultures from around the world. When Linda finally made the decision to settle down and become a full-time writer, one of her goals was to share those incredible experiences in her novels. As a native Michigander, Linda uses this familiar setting for her stories as well, especially Mackinac Island. Linda considers herself an armchair historian and finds the local history fascinating everywhere she goes and always finds ways to weave it into her books. Linda lived in Georgia for many years with her husband, but the couple has since moved to Oklahoma to be near family. Linda confesses that while she loves her family, she still misses Georgia. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast so you don't miss out when Season 5 begins Feb. 4, 2026. Linda's WebsiteLinda on FacebookLinda on InstagramLinda on AmazonNew Book in Collection: Second Chance SeriesSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Bleeped words in this episode: M@ss@cre, 3x Sl@ughter, Ass@ssin@tionHappy 2026 People,Dianne is pleased to share this hiatus replay of her interview with the amazing Miles Spencer. Miles is a self-described curious guy from Pittsburgh who strayed far from home—and even farther from the expected path to create an incredible life and career that is as fascinating as it is impressive.  For more than 30 years, he’s mentored tech founders, built and sold three digital media companies, and helped create over 1,000 jobs. He co-hosted his own show on PBS with Cliff Ennico called MoneyHunt, a predecessor to shows like Shark Tank. The pair also co-authored the book, MoneyHunt: 27 New Rules for Creating and Growing a Breakaway Business.But Miles' story goes well beyond boardrooms and balance sheets. An avid explorer, he once led over 1,500 people across 14 miles of open sea by kayak and has trekked more than 1,000 miles through the deserts of Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Syria. That desert journey inspired his current release, A Line in the Sand, which is a bestseller and is currently sitting in the top 10 in three categories on Amazon.These days, you can find Miles investing in digital media, entertainment, and consumer brands, while also managing teams, painting watercolors, spending time with his family, and planning new adventures and future publications. Check out today's episode and hear all the incredible details from the man himself.Be sure to subscribe to this podcast so you don't miss out on Season 5 beginning Feb. 4, 2026.Miles' WebsiteMiles on LinkedInMiles on AmazonHold My BeerNew Book Coming in 2026: Havana FamigliaSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Happy New Year People, We have finally crossed over into 2026 and are getting closer to the start of Season 5! But for today, we have got an incredible replay from Season 4! In this inspiring episode of Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt – Book Talk Podcast, Dianne chats with the effervescent Risa August, award-winning author, speaker, Gestalt practitioner, and rare disease warrior with sparkles in her hair and a tutu in her bag. Diagnosed with a pituitary tumor over a decade ago, Risa could have let life slow her down. Instead, she chose to pedal harder, live louder, and advocate fiercely for herself and others.Risa brings her signature blend of wisdom and whimsy to the conversation as we discuss her book, The Road Unpaved: Border to Border with a Brain Tumor and a Bike. She shares how she transformed her journey through illness into a mission of inspiration. With a heart for healing and a flair for fun, she now helps others break through life’s roadblocks by shifting their perspectives and embracing life, fully, fearlessly, and with glitter when necessary.A former Ironman athlete with a passion for barbells and bikes, Risa continues to thrive on movement, creativity, and joyful exploration. Whether she’s dancing Bollywood, flying on aerial silks, or leading workshops with tiaras and glitter, she reminds us that healing doesn’t have to be heavy. It can be playful, profound, and incredibly empowering.This episode is a celebration of resilience, authenticity, and living a life unleashed. Tune in and get ready to be inspired.Subscribe now to the podcast now so you don't miss out on Season 5 beginning Feb. 4. Podcast Guest Applications are now open.Risa's WebsiteRisa on FacebookRisa on InstagramRisa on LinkedInRisa on BookShoSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Happy New Years Eve, My Happy People,Today we are replaying Dianne's amazing chat with the multi-talented Doug Williams. Doug is an award-winning screenwriter, playwright, filmmaker, and the author of the FBI thriller, Failure Point. Doug is a former journalist who once served as a press secretary in the US Senate. He has worked in communications in public and private sectors and created a successful career as a freelance writer which has spanned more than 25 years.As a scriptwriter, his work has received numerous accolades. His work, Black Star Rising, based on the life of Texas congresswoman, Barbara Jordan, was awarded honors in more than 45 competitions worldwide, including 12 Best Screenplay awards. Black Star Rising is currently in development for a feature film.Failure Point is not Doug's first book, having previously published Nowhere Man and A Sacred Duty, a book he co-wrote with Paula Pedene. The story is based on Paula's true account of her experience as the federal whistleblower who exposed a scandal at the Veterans Administration hospital in Phoenix, Arizona, that took the lives of hundreds of U.S. veterans – also in development for a film. Nowhere Man was hailed by critics and compared to House of Cards.Dianne and Doug did their best to cover as much of the amazing aspects of Doug's life and career, as time would permit. You do not want to miss a single sensational soundbite of this incredible author interview. If you love thrillers with a good romance at the center, you may have found your new favorite author. Don't wait, go listen now! Subscribe to this podcast so you don't miss out on Season 5 beginning Feb. 4, 2026.Enjoy, Doug's WebsiteDoug on FacebookDoug on InstagramDoug on AmazonSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Happy Holidays, People, We are thrilled to replay this amazing author for you today in our holiday hiatus episodes. Get ready to meet the remarkable mind behind some of Canada’s most beloved books for young readers! In this episode of Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt – Book Talk Podcast, Dianne had the privilege to chat with Valerie Sherrard. Valerie is the award-winning author of A Bend in the Breeze, The Glory Wind, Counting Back from Nine, and the fan-favorite Shelby Belgarden mystery series. With a writing career that spans picture books, historical novels, and gripping young adult fiction, Valerie brings a powerful mix of heart, history, and humanity to everything she writes.From her early beginnings in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan to her inspiring life in Miramichi, New Brunswick, Valerie’s journey is as compelling as her characters. She’s not only a storyteller but a former foster parent to over seventy teenagers and a passionate advocate for literacy and creativity in youth. Her stories have won multiple awards and captured the hearts of readers across generations, and she’s still just getting started.In this warm and insightful conversation, Valerie shares what sparked her love for storytelling, the real-life experiences that shaped her books, and why she believes it’s never too late to chase your dreams. Whether you’re a fan of heartfelt fiction, curious about the writing life, or looking for a new favorite author, this episode will leave you inspired.Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast so you will be ready for Season 5 beginning Feb. 4, 2026Valerie on Blog SpotValerie on InstagramValerie on Amazon.comNew Book: An Unbalanced FoSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Bleeped words in today's episode: Drüg$, Hüm@n Traff!c!ngHappy Holidays People,We are kicking off our Holiday Hiatus episodes with the incredible writing team of Breakfield and Burkey. Dianne specifically chose this show as part of our memorial tribute to Rox Burkey who we lost in 2025. She was an incredible woman, as you will hear in this episode, and a real loss to the writing community.Charles Breakfield, as the CTO of the Enigma Series, leverages his decades of technology expertise, including security, networking, voice, and anything digital, to bring innovative technothriller elements into storytelling. He has deep knowledge of World War II history, has traveled extensively, and seeks cultural exchanges to learn what makes different people tick. Charles enjoys wine tasting, winemaking, Harley riding, cooking new recipes, and woodworking. Rox Burkey, as the COO of the Enigma Series, uses her extensive professional knowledge of optimizing technology and business investments to drive stellar customer experiences into the ongoing stories of the Enigma Series. Characteristics of people she has met over her career are woven into their stories. Rox enjoys her family, friends, puppies, reading, reviewing books, and traveling whenever possible. Meeting readers at various events is one of her favorite pastimes. Breakfield and Burkey have created award-winning stories that resonate with men and women, with a fresh perspective on technology possibilities within a fictional framework. They pen The Enigma Series and the Enigma Heirs Series, and cozy mysteries with the Magnolia Bluff Crime Chronicles (MBCC). Subscribe to our podcast now and be ready for Season 5 beginning Feb. 4, 2026.The Enigma Series WebsiteThe Enigma Series on InstagramThe Enigma Series on YouTubeBreakfield on AmSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Bleeped words: Serial K!ller x3Hello Happy People,It’s the season finale, and we’re wrapping up the year with bestselling author Melissa Payne, whose stories of redemption, love, and second chances have captured readers’ hearts. Her latest novel takes us to Sunny Pines Retirement Community, where secrets, spirits, and a determined grandmother named Birdie Allen prove that adventure doesn’t end at sixty-two.Melissa and I talk about finding hope in unexpected places, the beauty of aging characters who still have plenty of fight left, and how a touch of mystery and magic can make even the heaviest story feel full of light. We also chat about writing through the chaos of family life, celebrating small victories, and the joy of closing out another creative year.If you love heart, humor, and a dash of the supernatural, this conversation will leave you smiling and ready for the holidays.Melissa Payne is the bestselling author of The Wild Road Home, A Light in the Forest, and several other award-winning novels set in small mountain towns. She lives in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains with her husband, three kids, a friendly mutt, a very loud cat, and the occasional bear.As we wrap up this season of Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt, thank you for tuning in, sharing the love, and supporting all the incredible authors we’ve featured this year. Everyone with Burckhardt Books and Book Banter Productions wishes you a peaceful holiday season filled with good stories, warm drinks, and a little bit of magic. We will share the "Best of" episodes starting next week until our season five opener February 4, 2026. Melissa's WebsiteBuy Melissa's BooksMelissa on FacebookMelissa on instagramMelissa on BookBubSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy People,This week on Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt – Book Talk Podcast, Dianne welcomes back Dr. David Weill. We first spoke in Season 3, Episode 135 when his fiction book All That Really Matters was coming out.Dr. Weill is the Principal of the Weill Consulting Group, which focuses on improving the level of transplant care. Before founding his consulting firm, he served as Director of the Center for Advanced Lung Diseases and the Lung and Heart-Lung Transplant Program at Stanford University Medical Center.In addition to his work in medicine, Dr. Weill is a successful author. His newest book, Tell Me I Belong: A Journey Across Faiths and Generations, is a deeply personal exploration of identity, heritage, and belonging. Known for his memoir Exhale and his novel All That Really Matters, Dr. Weill continues to expand his storytelling voice with honesty, compassion, and reflection. When he isn’t writing or consulting, Dr. Weill enjoys life in New Orleans with his wife and their two daughters.In this episode, Dianne and Dr. Weill had a wonderful in-depth discussion about the inspiration behind Tell Me I Belong and the universal search for connection that unites his life and his work.S3 EP 135 Previous episodeDavid's WebsiteDavid on LinkedInDavid on FacebookDavid on InstagramDavid on AmazonSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy People,Dr. David Gibson is back on the show, and this time he’s traded forensic botany for a dystopian adventure. The longtime scientist and professor known for Planting Clues: How Plants Solve Crimes returns to chat about his bold new novel Elite Memories, a futuristic story where memory transfers, sentient animals, and survival all collide.We talk about what inspired this unexpected leap from nonfiction to sci-fi, how real science sneaks into his storytelling, and why even in a world ruled by technology, it’s still human nature that drives the story. David also shares how years of studying ecosystems shaped the way he builds worlds on the page, both real and imagined, and why writing fiction might be the most freeing experiment of his career.If you love authors who take creative risks, scientists who spin great stories, and tales that make you think while keeping you entertained, this episode is for you.David J. Gibson, PhD, FRSB, is an Emeritus Distinguished Professor of Plant Biology at Southern Illinois University Carbondale and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Biology. He’s written several acclaimed works on ecology and forensic botany. With Elite Memories, he steps into fiction, blending sharp science with a wild imagination to explore what makes us human.Previous Episode S2 EP 58David's WebsiteDavid on LinktreeDavid on AmazonDavid on FacebookDavid on InstagramSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy People,Imagine waking up in your childhood home, with your ten-year-old self still living there. How different would your past look when seen through your adult eyes? That’s the wild premise at the heart of You Cannot Mess This Up: A True Story That Never Happened by award-winning author Amy Weinland Daughters.In this week’s episode, Amy joins me to talk about memory, forgiveness, and what really happens when you face the ghosts of your own past. With her trademark wit and raw honesty, she shares her author journey and why she believes that none of us are quite who we remember.You’ll laugh, you’ll question your own memories, and you might even call your mom after this one.Born in Houston and raised in Spring, Texas, Amy is the 2020 Next Generation Indie Book Awards Overall Winner for Humor and Comedy. Her work blends hilarious truth-telling with heart-punch insight into how our stories make us who we are.If you’ve ever wondered what you’d say to your younger self or what she might say back, this episode just might reshape your self-image.Amy's WebsiteBuy Amy's BooksAmy on FacebookAmy on InstagramAmy on ThreadsSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy People,This week on Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt, we’re heading back to the wild, wonderful 1990s, a time before smartphones, Google Maps, or Instagram-worthy selfies. Author Candace MacPhie joins us to talk about her Back in a Year travel series, a hilarious and heartfelt chronicle of one woman’s global backpacking adventures.Her debut, Finding Color, took home the Silver in the 2024 Global Book Awards for Humor and Satire, and it’s just the first stop on a five-book journey around the world. We also chat about the next books in the series, Life Strikes Back, and Hello, I Am Here, and what readers can look forward to as Candace continues her storytelling journey.Born in Montreal and now based in Calgary, Alberta, Candace has lived and worked on four continents. A former business professional turned writer, she traded the corporate grind for creative freedom during the pandemic and hasn’t looked back since. When she’s not writing, she’s hiking, baking, or laughing with her husband and three kids.If you’ve ever dreamed of dropping everything to chase adventure (or just need a good laugh about what happens when you actually do), you’ll love this episode.Candace's WebsiteCandace on FacebookCandace on InstagramCandace on LinktreeCandace on TikTokCandace on Amazon Support the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy People,I hope you all survived the Halloween Season and are ready to join us as we move into the final stretch of Season 4 of Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt – Book Talk Podcast. As the holiday shopping season draws near we are going to bring even more great books to help you check off every avid reader you will need a gift for. Today I welcome YA fantasy author Heather Ogden, whose writing blends magical realism with the emotional depth of human resilience. Her debut novel, The Betrayal: The Lies We Fear introduces readers to Angelette Arabella, a young woman living in the shadow of her nation’s supposed hero, her father, Valerius Arabella. To the world, he’s a savior. To her, he’s simply “Dad.” But when a staged kidnapping unravels into something far darker, Angelette discovers that her life, her family, and her country are built on lies and that the truth may cost her everything. In Libertis, truth isn’t just dangerous, it could be treason.Tune in as we discuss the art of world-building, the value of being introverted, and why the most powerful magic often comes from facing our fears. Join us for a thought-provoking exchange that opens the final chapters of Season 4 with heart, honesty, and a touch of rebellion.The Lies We Fear WebsiteHeather on InstagramHeather on YouTubeHeather on AmazonSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy Fiends,This is my favorite time of year. Today on Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt I celebrate with a hauntingly good discussion with award-winning author K.T. Anglehart, creator of The Scottish Scrolls trilogy. Her stories weave Celtic folklore, reincarnation, and the pull of destiny into modern-day magic that feels just right for seasonal reading in October.K.T.’s debut, The Wise One, won the Chanticleer Paranormal Book Award and earned a Publishers Weekly Editor’s Pick, while her follow-up, The Twin Flame, turned up the heat with higher stakes, deeper shadows, and more powerful magic. The journey continues in the trilogy's final installment, The 8 Gateways, arriving fall 2025, where the threads of prophecy and power twist tighter than ever.In this episode, K.T. shares her journey from journalist to novelist, her fascination with folklore, and how she balances realism with enchantment. If you love a little mystery, a touch of witchcraft, and the charm of autumn storytelling, this conversation will cast just the right spell.K.T.'s WebsiteK.T.'s Smart.BioK.T. on SubstackK.T. on FacebookK.T. on InstagramK.T. on ThreadsSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy Fiends,Halloween is quickly approaching and the nights are growing darker, a perfect time to read a great thriller. Which is why I'm sharing my chat with award-winning author Chad Boudreaux with you all today. We discussed his latest thriller, Homecoming Queen, and all of his incredible work. His latest book delivers the perfect amount of chills in the form of a dangerous storm, long buried secrets, and struggles for survival. What more could you want from a hauntingly good read?  Homecoming Queen is set in the small Texas town of Miranda and follows Anika Raven, a former homecoming queen turned fugitive. With the law closing in and tensions rising, Anika has to fight ghosts from her past and enemies who refuse to stay buried.Before turning to fiction, Chad Boudreaux served in high-level positions within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Justice, bringing a sharp insider’s realism to every page. Now Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer of the nation’s largest military shipbuilder, he channels his experience into thrillers giving them captivating authenticity.Chad and I also take a look back at his award-winning debut novel, Scavenger Hunt, which captured multiple honors, including the Literary Titan Book Award and the American Fiction Award for Thriller: Legal. We discuss the challenges of being a D.C. insider turned author, his writing process, justice, and what it takes to keep readers awake long after midnight and reading well into the witching hours.This Halloween season, Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt turns up the tension with a tale where the storm isn’t the only thing to fear.Chad's WebsiteChad on BookBubChad on FacebookChad on InstagramChad YouTubeSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy Halloween Fiends,We are just spiriting away through this Halloween season. Today is another hauntingly good episode with award-winning, best-selling author and podcaster Tricia Copeland. Tricia joins me for a magical episode of Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt–Book Talk Podcast.Tricia believes magic infuses every part of life and love, aided by the stories that transport us to new worlds. Her Realm Chronicles series begins with To Be a Fae Queen, where a young faerie princess must claim her throne and face enemies both seen and unseen. With powerful storytelling and a gift for building immersive fantasy worlds, Tricia captures the beauty and danger of magic that exists just beyond the veil.In this conversation, Tricia and I talk about her journey from writing about real-life recovery to crafting award-winning fantasy adventures as well as her other series, and her Finding the Magic Book Podcast.So step into the world of the Fae with us and discover why Tricia Copeland’s stories remind us that real magic lives within and around all of us.Tricia's WebsiteTricia on FacebookTricia on InstagramTricia on YouTubeTricia on TikTokTricia on AmazonFinding the Magic Book PodcastSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Bleeped words: Murd3r/Su!c!de, K!llerHello My Happy Fiends,My favorite time of year is in full swing. In this hauntingly good episode of Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt–Book Talk Podcast, I sit down with J.E. Weiner, the author who’s turning heads and raising goosebumps with her Southern Gothic debut, The Wretched and Undone.Set in the mist-shrouded hills of Texas on the eve of the Civil War, this novel is a genre-bending tale of ghosts, grief, and generational curses inspired by real people and actual events. When Polish immigrants Marcin and Agnieszka Anderwald cross an ocean searching for freedom, they awaken something dark, an unrelenting evil that refuses to rest.Weiner’s background as a historian and her own encounters with the supernatural bring a bone-deep authenticity to this chilling saga, which has already earned honors as a K!ller Nashville Top Pick and Claymore Award Finalist for Best Southern Gothic. Together, we discuss haunted histories, unquiet spirits, and the ghosts that follow us through time, whether we invite them or not.If you love eerie atmospheres, haunted family legacies, and the kind of storytelling that lingers like footsteps in an empty hallway, this episode and J.E. Weiner’s The Wretched and Undone are the perfect entertainment this October.J. E.'s WebsiteJ. E. on FacebookJ. E. on AmazonJ. E. on InstagramJ. E. on ThreadsSide Note: The podcast name J.E. Weiner could not think of is The Telepathy Tapes and can be found by clicking Support the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Bleeped words: Murd3r, k!ller (x2)Hello My Happy People,This week on Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt – Book Talk Podcast, we kick off our Hauntingly Good Reads for Halloween with debut middle-grade author Carol Williams. We talked about her new book, The Supernatural Files of CJ Delaney.CJ Delaney is a spirited and curious kid reporter whose summer vacation takes a wild turn with ghost dogs, mysterious symbols, and plenty of small-town secrets. Blending supernatural suspense with heartfelt real-world emotion, Carol’s story has already earned praise from Kirkus Reviews for its “suspenseful and emotionally intelligent” storytelling and from Booklist for giving readers a “lovably sassy” protagonist.Carol shares how her background in marketing and communications shaped her writing, how her Ohio roots inspired the setting, and why supporting literacy and curiosity in young readers is so close to her heart.The Supernatural Files of CJ Delaney is perfect for classrooms, book clubs, and young readers who love fast-paced adventures with just the right touch of mystery. Not to mention, it's a perfect way to kick off our month of Hauntingly Good Reads for the Halloween season.Listen in for a fun and thoughtful conversation about writing, community, and the power of stories to spark curiosity in kids.Buy Carol's BookCarol on InstagramSide Note: The author's name Carol could not remember who wrote Lockwood & Co. is Jonathan Stroud. The 70s TV show name neither of us could remember completely is Kolchak: The Night Stalker.Support the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Bleeped Words: Murd3r, s3xual (2x), rap3, k!llers, hum@n traff!ck!ng (5x), dr*gs (3x), dr*gHello My Happy People,This week on Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt – Book Talk Podcast, Dianne welcomes retired Air Force Special Agent Derrick Jackson, author of the military thriller Shadow One: Based on a True Story.  Drawing on his twenty-one years of experience in the Air Force Office of Special Investigations, Jackson delivers a gripping story that blends high-stakes criminal investigations with deep emotional conflict and a touch of romance.Shadow One follows Special Agent Devin Jackson as he confronts betrayal, tragedy, and an international crime syndicate that will stop at nothing to silence him. With themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and justice, this thriller keeps readers hooked while weaving in a heartfelt love story.Join us as Derrick shares how his real-world counterintelligence and criminal investigation background shaped his writing, and why Shadow One is a must-read for fans of thrillers with both grit and heart.If you like stories based on real-life experiences, you may have just found your new favorite author. Don't wait, go listen now. Derrick on FacebookDerrick on InstagramShadow One on AmazonSide note: The quote Dianne gave from Former FBI Agent Robert Ressler was him paraphrasing Friedrich Nietzsche, "He who fights with monsters might take care lest he thereby become a monster. And if you gaze for long into an abyss, the abyss gazes also into you."Support the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Bleeped word: Murd3rbot Hello Happy People,In this week’s episode of Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt – Book Talk Podcast, I share my chat with award-winning science fiction author and microbiologist Joan Slonczewski. Known for weaving real science into imaginative worlds, Joan’s novels explore everything from microbial intelligence to feminist futures.Her latest book, Minds in Transit, takes readers into the dazzling city of Iridis, where human lords, sentient machines, and microbial minds shape society in unexpected ways. But as artist Chrys works with her microbial partners to design a new city, cracks appear in her creations—and soon the balance of an entire world is at risk.Beyond her fiction, Joan is a dedicated scientist who publishes research with undergraduates on bacterial pH stress and cold-adapted microbes from Antarctica. She also teaches courses in microbiology, virology, and biology in science fiction, blending scientific discovery with imaginative storytelling in the classroom. Her work is truly fascinating!Join us for a captivating conversation about the intersections of science, imagination, and storytelling. Joan shares insights from her research, award-winning fiction, and the inspiration behind her work.Joan's WebsiteJoan's PublicationsJoan in Antarctica Joan's Wikipedia PageBuy Minds in TransitJoan on AmazonSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Bleeped words: murd3rbot (twice), k!lledHello My Happy People,This week on Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt, I talk with author, journalist, and martial artist Jason Brick about his mission to make families safer. With decades of martial arts training, work as a bodyguard, and experience as a dad, Jason brings unique insight into personal safety and violence prevention.In our chat, we highlight his book There I Was … When Nothing Happened: True Tales of Violence Prevention from Professionals in the Field, which shares over 50 real-life stories from experts in law enforcement, martial arts, and security. Each story shows how preparation, awareness, de-escalation, and escape can prevent violence before it starts.Jason also introduces Safest Family on the Block, his podcast and book project built around interviews with experts ranging from bodyguards to school administrators, to name just a few. His work gives parents and communities practical tools to protect what matters most, their loved ones.If you’ve ever worried about how to keep yourself and your family safe, this episode offers practical tools and real-life wisdom you can use right away to give you peace of mind. Don't wait, go listen now! Jason's WebsiteJason on FacebookJason on InstagramBuy Jason's BooksBook, Blog, and Podcast: SAFEST FAMILY ON THE BLOCK!Support the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Bleeped words: S3x, S3xuality (Twice)Hello My Happy People,Judy Blume transformed how young readers understood themselves and the world around them. In this episode of Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt – Book Talk Podcast, bestselling author and cultural writer Rachelle Bergstein joins me to talk about her book, The Genius of Judy: How Judy Blume Rewrote Childhood for All of Us. Her book explores Blume’s life, groundbreaking novels, and enduring influence.Rachelle traces Blume’s journey from suburban New Jersey mother to one of the most celebrated—and censored—authors in America. By telling stories of ordinary kids with honesty and humor, Blume challenged taboos around growing up, sparking conversations about identity, feminism, and free expression that still matter today.We discuss Rachelle's career and inspirations and how they led her to writing about Judy Blume and her cultural legacy. Rachelle shares how her own work as an author and editor has been shaped by the trail Judy Blume blazed. Inspired by Judy Blume’s longtime fight against book bans, Rachelle is following the current politically charged book banning crisis on her Substack, Banner Year. Rachelle lives with her husband and son in Brooklyn, USA.Rachelle's WebsiteSubstack: Banner YearRachelle on InstagramRachelle on Bookshop.orgRachelle on AmazonRachelle on XSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Bleeped words: k!lled (twice), d!edHello My Happy People,This week on Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt – Book Talk Podcast, I sit down with Qin (pronounced "Ching") Sun Stubis, award-winning author of Once Our Lives. Her memoir shares the unforgettable story of four generations of Chinese women who endured war, revolution, superstition, and persecution, yet still prospered through strength, hope, and resilience.Born in a Shanghai shantytown during the Great Chinese Famine, Qin faced hardship from her earliest days. She was once dismissed as a “worthless” girl and later shunned when her father was imprisoned for speaking the truth about injustice in her country. She turned to books and learning as her lifeline. That determination carried her to one of China’s most prestigious universities and eventually to the United States.Through her writing, Qin seeks to build bridges between cultures and remind us of the common dreams and struggles that unite humanity. Her story of survival and triumph is as inspiring as it is unforgettable.Today, Qin lives in the United States with her husband, two adult children, and a beloved rescue dog. She continues to write, publish, and speak around the world, sharing stories that inspire strength and understanding.Qin's WebsiteQin on FacebookQin on InstagramBuy Once Our LivesSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy People,This week on Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt – Book Talk Podcast, I am joined by Marcia Peck, an award-winning author and lifelong musician who has spent over fifty years as a cellist with the Minnesota Orchestra. Marcia brings her love of rhythm, melody, and storytelling together in her debut novel, Water Music: A Cape Cod Story.Her novel has been celebrated with multiple honors, including the Literary Titan Gold Award, National Indie Excellence Award, and the New England Book Festival Regional Lit Winner, among many others. With its lyrical prose and heartfelt exploration of family, place, and memory, Water Music has resonated deeply with readers and critics alike.Beyond her novel, Marcia’s fiction and essays have appeared in numerous literary journals and publications, and she has received fellowships and residencies from prestigious arts organizations. Whether through music, words, or the timeless beauty of Cape Cod, Marcia's creative voice shines with authenticity and grace.In our conversation, Marcia shares her journey as both a musician and a writer, the ways in which music informs her storytelling, and how Cape Cod continues to shape her creative world. Join us as we explore her award-winning work and the deep connections between music, memory, and the written word.Marcia's WebsiteMarcia on FacebookMarcia on Sea Crow PressMarcia on BookShop.orgMarcia on AmazonSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello Happy People,In this episode of Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt – Book Talk Podcast, I sat down with Alison Beder Solway, author of The Miles We Run, for an emotional and deeply moving conversation. Alison opens up about her personal journey through the challenges, heartbreaks, and triumphs of surrogacy in her quest to build a family.Our discussion goes beyond the pages of her book, exploring the resilience it takes to keep going when the road ahead feels uncertain, the emotional weight of navigating infertility, and the transformative power of hope and love.Alison Beder Solway is a Canadian author, fitness coach, and founder of ABS Fitness. A passionate advocate for women’s health and resilience, she shares her life in Toronto with her husband and children. She is also a marathon runner, completing the New York City Marathon as part of her inspiring journey.Whether you’ve faced similar struggles or simply want to hear an inspiring story of determination and the unshakable bonds of family, this episode will leave you both moved and uplifted.TheMilesWeRun.comABSFitnes.caAlison on InstagramBuy The Miles We RunAlison on LinkedInAlison on Apple BooksSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy People, Have I got a show for you today! In this inspiring episode of Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt – Book Talk Podcast, I share my interview with the effervescent Risa August, award-winning author, speaker, Gestalt practitioner, and rare disease warrior with sparkles in her hair and a tutu in her bag. Diagnosed with a pituitary tumor over a decade ago, Risa could have let life slow her down. Instead, she chose to pedal harder, live louder, and advocate fiercely for herself and others.Risa brings her signature blend of wisdom and whimsy to the conversation as we discuss her book, The Road Unpaved: Border to Border with a Brain Tumor and a Bike. She shares how she transformed her journey through illness into a mission of inspiration. With a heart for healing and a flair for fun, she now helps others break through life’s roadblocks by shifting their perspectives and embracing life, fully, fearlessly, and with glitter when necessary.A former Ironman athlete with a passion for barbells and bikes, Risa continues to thrive on movement, creativity, and joyful exploration. Whether she’s dancing Bollywood, flying on aerial silks, or leading workshops with tiaras and glitter, she reminds us that healing doesn’t have to be heavy. It can be playful, profound, and incredibly empowering.This episode is a celebration of resilience, authenticity, and living a life unleashed. Tune in and get ready to smile, be inspired, and maybe even be moved to start your own tutu collection.Risa's WebsiteRisa on FacebookRisa on InstagramRisa on LinkedInRisa on BookShop.orgRisa on AmazonStarry Eyed SurpriseSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy People,Today I get to introduce all of you to the incredible Wendy Dale – Memoir Coach, Author, and Writing Myth-Buster. Have you ever been told to "just write" or "crank out a crappy first draft"? Wendy Dale says no thanks—and she’s leading a full-blown rebellion against those worn-out writing clichés!Wendy is the brilliant mind behind The Memoir Engineering System, a step-by-step method that helps writers skip the mess and build strong, emotionally compelling memoirs from the start. After fifteen years of reading thousands of drafts, Wendy cracked the code on what makes memoirs really work.Her own memoir, Avoiding Prison and Other Noble Vacation Goals, was published by Three Rivers Press/Penguin Random House. Tune in as Wendy joins me on Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt – Book Talk Podcast to challenge the norms, share the truth about writing memoirs, and inspire you to make that first draft your final masterpiece. Wendy lives in Cusco, Peru with her husband and two bunnies.Wendy's WebsiteWendy's Reality ShowWendy on LinkedInWendy on YouTubeWendy on FacebookWendy on AmazonSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy People, Get ready to meet the remarkable mind behind some of Canada’s most beloved books for young readers! In this episode of Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt – Book Talk Podcast, Dianne had the privilege to chat with Valerie Sherrard. Valerie is the award-winning author of A Bend in the Breeze, The Glory Wind, Counting Back from Nine, and the fan-favorite Shelby Belgarden mystery series. With a writing career that spans picture books, historical novels, and gripping young adult fiction, Valerie brings a powerful mix of heart, history, and humanity to everything she writes.From her early beginnings in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan to her inspiring life in Miramichi, New Brunswick, Valerie’s journey is as compelling as her characters. She’s not only a storyteller but a former foster parent to over seventy teenagers and a passionate advocate for literacy and creativity in youth. Her stories have won multiple awards and captured the hearts of readers across generations — and she’s still just getting started.In this warm and insightful conversation, Valerie shares what sparked her love for storytelling, the real-life experiences that shaped her books, and why she believes it’s never too late to chase your dreams. Whether you’re a fan of heartfelt fiction, curious about the writing life, or looking for a new favorite author, this episode will leave you inspired.Don’t miss your chance to hear from one of Canada’s literary treasures. Tune in now and discover the woman behind the words — Valerie Sherrard!Valerie on Blog SpotValerie on InstagramValerie on Amazon.comDyslexic FontSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Bleeped words in today's episode: Drüg$, Hüm@n Traff!c!ngHello Happy People,Dianne has spoken to many authors who co-write books, but usually the interview is only with one of the authors. Today, however, Dianne gets to share her second ever interview with both authors of the incredible writing team of Breakfield and Burkey.Charles Breakfield, as the CTO of the Enigma Series, leverages his decades of technology expertise, including security, networking, voice, and anything digital, to bring innovative technothriller elements into storytelling. He has deep knowledge of World War II history, has traveled extensively, and seeks cultural exchanges to learn what makes different people tick. Charles enjoys wine tasting, winemaking, Harley riding, cooking new recipes, and woodworking. Rox Burkey, as the COO of the Enigma Series, uses her extensive professional knowledge of optimizing technology and business investments to drive stellar customer experiences into the ongoing stories of the Enigma Series. Characteristics of people she has met over her career are woven into their stories. Rox enjoys her family, friends, puppies, reading, reviewing books, and traveling whenever possible. Meeting readers at various events is one of her favorite pastimes. Breakfield and Burkey have created award-winning stories that resonate with men and women, with a fresh perspective on technology possibilities within a fictional framework. They pen The Enigma Series and the Enigma Heirs Series. They ventured into writing cozy mysteries with the Magnolia Bluff Crime Chronicles. Their newest short story collection complements their novella and individual short stories. The Enigma Series WebsiteThe Enigma Series on FacebookThe Enigma Series on InstagramThe Enigma Series on YouTubeSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Bleeped words: naz!, prost!tuteHello Happy People,Today Dianne is excited to share with you her chat with romantic women's fiction author, Linda Hughes. For many years Linda worked internationally as a seminar leader and public speaker. It was her dream job. It allowed her to meet people from other countries and cultures from around the world. When Linda finally made the decision to settle down and become a full-time writer, one of her goals was to share those incredible experiences in her novels. As a native Michigander, Linda uses this familiar setting for her stories as well, especially Mackinac Island. Linda considers herself an armchair historian and finds the local history fascinating everywhere she goes and always finds ways to weave it into her books. Linda lived in Georgia for many years with her husband, but the couple has since moved to Oklahoma to be near family. Linda confesses that while she loves her family, she still misses Georgia. Linda's WebsiteLinda on FacebookLinda on InstagramLinda on AmazonSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy People, Today on Book Banter with Dianne Burckhardt–Book Talk Podcast, get ready to step into a world where fairy magic meets real-world heart in my conversation with award-winning, middle-grade author Micki Bare. A graduate of NC State University with a BA in Speech Communication and a Master of Arts in Teaching in middle-school social studies, Micki brings decades of educational insight—and eighteen years as a columnist—to every page she writes.Her latest novel, KIMIMILA RETURNS (May 2025), is the fourth installment in the beloved Zahra of the Uwharries series. When elder fairy Bubble Rain reappears—one of the feared omens signaling the end of her people—and a young fairy vanishes, Zahra must confront the shadowy Umbra Fae in her greatest adventure yet. We discuss Micki’s inspirations, her seamless blend of magical realism and low fantasy, and how she crafts middle-grade stories that resonate with young readers and parents alike.Micki’s three-decade career in education—as teacher, administrator, and marketing director—infuses her writing with authenticity and heart. She’ll share how her years guiding middle-schoolers and penning a longtime column sharpened her storytelling skills, and what she’s learned about building worlds that both enchant and empower.Based in Asheboro, NC with her husband, Micki recharges by gardening, cooking, traveling, and hiking the Uwharrie peaks that inspired Zahra’s journey. Tune in to discover the magic behind the pages—and why every reader, young or old, will root for Zahra as she fights to save her fairy kin.Micki's WebsiteMicki on FacebookMicki on InstagramMicki on ThreadsMicki on YouTubeMicki on TikTokMicki on Bookshop.orgSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello Happy People,Dianne cannot wait to share today's episode with all of you. Her guest, Robert O’Connor, brings history to life in his latest book, Jeep Show: A Trouper at the Battle of the Bulge. His gripping new WWII novel has earned praise from Kirkus Reviews, Purple Heart Magazine, and Midwest Book Review, to name a few. Robert is a former Phi Beta Kappa at Kenyon College with a long successful career in marketing. Robert was a marketing executive at Procter & Gamble and co-owner of an advertising agency, but even successful men can have a "hard fall" sometimes. Robert drew on this experience to inspire others with his first book Gumptionade: The Booster For Your Self-Improvement Plan. Later, it would be the discovery of a circus sponsorship gone awry in 1967 that would plant the seed that would eventually grow into his first fiction novel, Jeep Show: A Trouper at the Battle of the Bulge. This tale is based on the true story of Jim Hetzer, an Army Entertainment Specialist who toured forward combat zones alongside Private Mickey Rooney.With meticulous research and wry humor, O’Connor transports you into the frozen Ardennes, where small Jeep-mounted variety shows risked everything to keep GI morale alive, and the mix of laughter and peril still resonates with many today.Robert and his wife recently moved to Minneapolis. The couple has three grown sons and a grandson. Robert and his wife lost their beloved basset hound, Bassie, a few years ago and plan to adopt another basset hound when the time is right. Don't wait, join us now for an episode full of heart, history, and the unbreakable spirit that binds us all.Charitable Contribution: For each book sold, Robert O'Connor will donate $1 to Shield & Stripes. Robert's websiteRobert on FacebookRobert on InstagramSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello My Happy People,I am so thrilled to share my incredible interview with award-winning author Joel Shulkin, MD, with all of you today. Not only is Joel a practicing physician, but he is also the author of engaging medical thrillers. There is nothing I love better than when actual professionals in the medical and criminal investigation fields write thrillers. You know you are going to get stories filled with accurate details that give you that extra something to really drive the drama. Joel is a developmental-behavioral pediatrician and United States Air Force veteran with a master’s in public health, and he has used this background to enhance his amazing storytelling. His books Adverse Effects and Toxic Effects, the first two novels in the Memory Thieves series are great examples. He has also penned award-winning short stories and poetry with more books already scheduled for 2026.  Today, we chat about his recent book Heroic Measures, a forensic technothriller in his new Death Benefits series. Joel lives in Florida with his wife, two daughters, and two dogs.Joel's WebsiteJoel on FacebookJoel on InstagramGet a Signed BookJoel on AmazonJoel on TikTokSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Bleeped words in this episode: M@ss@cre, 3x Sl@ughter, Ass@ssin@tion Hello Happy People,Dianne is pleased to share her interview with the amazing Miles Spencer. Miles is a self-described curious guy from Pittsburgh who strayed far from home—and even farther from the expected path to create an incredible life and career that is as fascinating as it is impressive.  For more than 30 years, he’s mentored tech founders, built and sold three digital media companies, and helped create over 1,000 jobs. He co-hosted his own show on PBS with Cliff Ennico called MoneyHunt, a predecessor to shows like Shark Tank. The pair also co-authored the book, MoneyHunt: 27 New Rules for Creating and Growing a Breakaway Business.But Miles' story goes well beyond boardrooms and balance sheets. An avid explorer, he once led over 1,500 people across 14 miles of open sea by kayak and has trekked more than 1,000 miles through the deserts of Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Syria. That desert journey inspired his current release, A Line in the Sand, which is a bestseller and is currently sitting in the top 10 in three categories on Amazon.These days, you can find Miles investing in digital media, entertainment, and consumer brands, while also managing teams, painting watercolors, spending time with his family, and planning new adventures and future publications. Check out today's episode and hear all the incredible details from the man himself. Miles' WebsiteMiles on LinkedInMiles on AmazonHold My BeerSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I? 

Share your thoughts on this episode, text us now. Hello Happy People,Dianne is thrilled to bring you her chat with the incredible award-winning YA epic fantasy author, Anne Mollova. While Anne attests to having been a writer since the age of five–even creating her own handmade books–it would be decades before she gave herself permission to follow her passion for the written word.As an accomplished violinist, Anne chose to pursue music as her initial career path. She worked in various venues and groups as she completed her university studies, setting herself up for a future as a musician and a violin instructor. But it was a revelation at a bus stop that would change her life forever, a story she shares in today's episode. Anne lives with her family in Pennsylvania. Aside from writing, she loves nature, making music, eating chocolate, drinking tea, and creating things with yarn. She still keeps an eye out for faeries and hasn’t yet accepted the fact that she cannot have a pet baby dragon. Don't wait, go listen now!Anne's WebsiteAnne's KickstarterAnne on GoodreadsAnne on FacebookAnne on InstagramAnne on AmazonSupport the showSubscribe Now: NewsletterBurckhardtBooks.com: BUY AN ISSUE: Book Banter Magazine*NEW* Haunted Hearts SeriesBuy & Read: Burckhardt Book CollectionsSupport Us: FREE options. Learn more, Click here!Burckhardt Books on FacebookAbout Book Banter Productions:Book Banter Productions on FacebookBook Banter Productions on TikTokApply to be a Guest: Podcast Guest ApplicationAbout Dianne:Dianne Burckhardt, Award-Winning Indie Author Meet Dianne EP 1: Who Am I?