Pulse 95 Live

In this episode, bestselling thriller author Chris Pavone — known for The Expats, The Paris Diversion, and Two Nights in Lisbon — reflects on his transition from a publishing career to becoming a full-time novelist. He shares how his life abroad shaped his early storytelling, why he's drawn to characters navigating uncertainty, and the techniques he uses to build tension, craft twists, and turn cities like Lisbon and Paris into living characters on the page. Pavone explains how he researches international thrillers, how he balances fact and invention, and what makes a twist not just clever but deeply satisfying. He also discusses the challenges of returning to the same characters for a sequel and what he hopes global readers — including those at the Sharjah International Book Fair — take away from his work beyond suspense alone. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #ChrisPavone #TheExpats #TwoNightsInLisbon #ThrillerWriting #GlobalFiction #Pulse95Radio

In this episode, Dr. Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai — award-winning author of The Mountains Sing, Dust Child, and The Secret of Hoa Sen — shares how her journey across poetry, fiction, and nonfiction grew out of a deep need to tell the stories Vietnam carries within its history. She discusses the challenges of writing about sensitive subjects, from war trauma to the rarely-told Amerasian experience, and how careful research and compassion guide her storytelling. Quế Mai reflects on the power of translation in reaching global audiences, the way her roles as writer, educator, and advocate reinforce one another, and how literature can support healing and reconciliation across cultures. Speaking at the Sharjah International Book Fair, she offers her message to readers from the Arab world and beyond, along with practical advice for emerging writers from underrepresented communities. She also shares insight into the new territories she is excited to explore in her upcoming work. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #NguyenPhanQueMai #TheMountainsSing #DustChild #VietnameseLiterature #StorytellingAndHealing #Pulse95Radio

In this episode, Moudhy Al-Rashid, ancient historian and author of Between Two Rivers: Ancient Mesopotamia and the Birth of History, shares what first drew her into the world of early civilizations and why the stories of ordinary people — not kings — became the heart of her work. She explains how she balances rigorous scholarship with poetic, emotionally resonant storytelling, making complex history accessible to modern readers. Moudhy discusses lessons from Mesopotamia that still matter today — from community and creativity to how societies heal — and offers surprising insights from ancient medical practices that continue to fascinate her. She also explores the role of literature in connecting cultures across thousands of years and hints at what readers can expect from her next project. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #MoudhyAlRashid #BetweenTwoRivers #AncientMesopotamia #HistoryAndStorytelling #CulturalHeritage #Pulse95Radio

In this episode, Sarah LaBrie — writer, librettist, and author of the acclaimed memoir No One Gets to Fall Apart — speaks about navigating race, identity, and mental health on the page. She reflects on the responsibility of portraying these themes with honesty while ensuring multiple perspectives are heard. Sarah also opens up about the difficulty of writing deeply personal scenes, including her mother's breakdown and the multi-generational legacy of mental illness. With experience spanning libretti, television, and fiction, LaBrie explains how different forms have shaped her layered, musical narrative style. She shares what her early attempts at speculative fiction taught her about writing truth, and how the memoir's title captures the tension between chaos and resilience. Speaking to a global audience at the Sharjah International Book Fair, Sarah discusses what she hopes readers in the Arab world will take away from her journey of trauma, healing, and identity — and how literature can deepen cultural understanding. She also reveals the book she returns to for courage, and hints at what direction her next project may take. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #SarahLaBrie #NoOneGetsToFallApart #Memoir #MentalHealth #Identity #Pulse95Radio

In this episode, Mariam Rahmani — author, translator, and scholar — reflects on her journey across fiction, translation, and academia. She shares the moment she realised she wanted to work on both sides of literature, and what translating books like In Case of Emergency taught her about language, culture, and the ethics of storytelling. Rahmani discusses how her lived experience shaped Liquid: A Love Story, a novel that blends romance, ambition, and cultural critique through the voice of a Muslim protagonist navigating overlapping worlds. She unpacks the ethical decisions behind multilingual translation, the impact of her academic background, and the opportunities and challenges facing global publishing in the Middle East and North Africa. With her first major translation recognized as a Best Book of 2022 by The New Yorker, she reflects on how acclaim reshaped her path and offers practical advice to writers who want to balance translation with their own creative work. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #MariamRahmani #LiquidALoveStory #LiteraryTranslation #ComparativeLiterature #GlobalPublishing #Pulse95Radio

In this episode, Banu Mushtaq — journalist, activist, and the first Kannada-language author to win the International Booker Prize (2025) for her short-story collection Heart Lamp — reflects on a lifetime of writing rooted in justice, identity, and lived experience. She shares what moved her toward short stories as her primary form, how she balances activism with literary imagination, and how global recognition has reshaped her understanding of audience and craft. Banu discusses why she gravitates toward short fiction, the space it creates for nuance, and its power to amplify the voices of Muslim women, Dalit women, and marginalized communities in Karnataka. She also offers insight for Gulf-region publishers and translators as demand for South Asian literature grows, while revealing the themes and formats she hopes to explore next. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #BanuMushtaq #HeartLamp #KannadaLiterature #InternationalBookerPrize #SouthAsianVoices #Pulse95Radio

In this episode, award-winning literary translator Lisa Dillman — who has translated more than thirty novels from Spanish and Catalan into English — opens a window into the art and craft of translation. She explains what draws her to a book, from voice and cultural depth to linguistic challenge, and walks us step by step through her process, from deep research to “entering character” on the page. Lisa reflects on being a National Book Award finalist for Abyss, how recognition has shaped (and pressured) her work, and what teaching at Emory University has taught her about language, literature, and nuance. From the role of translation in bridging cultures at fairs like Sharjah, to the impact of AI and digital publishing on the future of the profession, this conversation is a masterclass in how stories travel across borders. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #LisaDillman #LiteraryTranslation #SpanishLiterature #WorldLiterature #Pulse95Radio

Ajmal Hassan from Discover Mleiha joins the special show to discuss the tourism potential of Mleiha desert. We hear about its geographical diversity and the natural beauty of the region.

HE Khalid Jassim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Tourism joins us on the show to share his thoughts on the forum. We also discuss tourism arrivals and the contribution of the sector to the local economy.

Akash Ranjith he Founder and CEO of Zerzura joins us on the show to discuss the significance of exclusive adventure experiences. We learn about Mleiha and how it has become an attractive destination amongst high-end customers who seek bespoke experiences.

In this interview we speak to Marc Reineke who shares his insights on a "framework behind a scalable business, without the usual chaos. We discuss the opportunities of a company to make the most of AI tools and prompts to streamline their operations.

Marilu Olvera GM of Chedi Al Bait joins us on our special show from SITTF 2025 to discuss sustainable practices of a hotel and adapting to the technological evolution of AI.

In this episode, Asad Orm, Group Circulation Manager – Books & Magazines at Motivate Media Group, gives an inside look at how one of the region's most influential media houses gets books and magazines into the hands of readers across the UAE and beyond. He discusses the evolving role of circulation in a digital era, how distribution strategies are changing for publishers and authors, and what it takes to keep print alive in one of the most competitive media landscapes. Asad also shares insights on industry trends, the challenges of large-scale logistics, and what publishers need to know to reach wider audiences through smart circulation and market presence. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #MotivateMediaGroup #AsadOrm #PublishingIndustry #BookDistribution #MediaInUAE #Pulse95Radio

In this episode, Dr. Fatima Al Muhairi, veterinarian and creator of the Anatomical Atlas of the Dromedary Camel, explains what inspired her to document one of the region's most culturally and scientifically significant animals. She discusses the scientific and logistical challenges of producing such a detailed reference, the camel's surprising anatomical adaptations, and how her work serves both modern veterinary practice and the preservation of UAE heritage. Dr. Fatima also shares how she makes complex anatomy accessible to non-scientific readers, touches on topics like welfare and disease management, and reveals what species might be next in her research journey — along with the book that shaped her path. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #DrFatimaAlMuhairi #DromedaryCamel #VeterinaryScience #UAEHeritage #CamelAtlas #Pulse95Radio

In this episode, Fadi Kattan, chef and author of Bethlehem: A Celebration of Palestinian Food, shares how his love for cooking evolved into storytelling — turning recipes into a testament to heritage, memory, and identity. Speaking at the Sharjah International Book Fair 2025, he reflects on how each dish connects him to his hometown of Bethlehem and the farmers, families, and traditions that inspired his book. Fadi discusses the delicate balance between preserving authentic Palestinian flavours and reimagining them for modern kitchens, while also exploring how food writing can bridge cultures, correct misconceptions, and bring people closer to a shared understanding of home. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #FadiKattan #Bethlehem #PalestinianCuisine #CulinaryHeritage #CulturalStorytelling #Pulse95Radio

In this episode, Saif Al Suwaidi, Director of Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone), discusses how Sharjah became a global hub for publishing, media, and creative industries. He explains the motivation behind establishing SPC Free Zone, its role in driving innovation, and how strategic partnerships — such as the recent MoU with Mashreq Bank — are empowering entrepreneurs and cultural firms across the UAE. With over 16,000 companies representing 168 nationalities, Saif shares how the Free Zone continues to preserve its identity as a knowledge-driven ecosystem. He also explores the future of digital publishing, AI-powered licensing, and the next wave of opportunities for young authors and startups shaping the region's creative economy. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #SPCFreeZone #SaifAlSuwaidi #SharjahPublishingCity #CreativeEconomy #PublishingInnovation #Pulse95Radio

A deep conversation with Dr Reem Obeidat on how design thinking, strategy, and organisational culture shape the way institutions grow. From leadership to innovation, she breaks down how purposeful creativity can transform the future of work across the Arab world. Recorded live at the Sharjah International Book Fair.

At ninety one years old, Al Haj N. Jamaludhin is the oldest published author in the history of the Sharjah International Book Fair. In this intimate interview, he reflects on poetry, faith, Kerala, the UAE, and the lifelong belief that stories should cross languages and generations. A moving conversation with a writer whose legacy continues to inspire.

Step into the world of myth, magic and modern storytelling. Saniya Chughtai joins us at the Sharjah International Book Fair to talk about Marni Khan, the Energy Warriors, and how fantasy can empower young readers to understand identity, courage and culture.

In this episode, Moza Al Rand, Head of Events and Planning for the Poetry Corner at the Sharjah International Book Fair 2025, shares the story behind the innovative Poetry Pharmacy — a space where poems serve as emotional remedies for visitors. She discusses how the concept was brought to life, the creative challenges of transforming poetry into an interactive experience, and how it ties into the fair's theme “Between You and a Book.” Moza also reflects on how the Poetry Pharmacy redefines the reader–writer connection, turning literature into a deeply personal act of healing and reflection. Looking ahead, she reveals her hopes for expanding the initiative into a permanent feature at Sharjah's cultural events. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #MozaAlRand #PoetryPharmacy #PoetryCorner #SharjahCulture #HealingThroughPoetry #Pulse95Radio

In this episode, Tamer Said, Director of the Sharjah Literary Agency, introduces the mission and vision behind the first Emirati agency dedicated to representing Arab writers on the world stage. He explains how the agency bridges the gap between local authors and international publishers, helping protect intellectual property rights and turning powerful Arabic stories into global literary and cinematic successes. Tamer discusses the difference between self-publishing and agency representation, the professional advantages writers gain through expert guidance, and how the agency is reshaping the future of Arabic literature through translation, global rights deals, and cultural collaboration. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #SharjahLiteraryAgency #TamerSaid #ArabicLiterature #PublishingIndustry #WritersJourney #Pulse95Radio

In this episode, Armen Adamjan — the creator behind viral eco-hack videos and author of Don't Throw It Out! — shares how a single lockdown video on regrowing scallions sparked a global movement. With over 26 million followers and billions of views, Armen opens up about the creative process behind his fast-paced, educational content and the real secrets to staying ahead of ever-changing social media algorithms. He reflects on his journey from working behind the camera to becoming a full-time creator, the challenges of turning short-form content into a bestselling book, and the habits that helped him build a loyal global audience. Armen also offers practical advice for aspiring creators afraid of judgment, and reveals what's next in his mission to make sustainability fun, accessible, and viral. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #ArmenAdamjan #DontThrowItOut #ContentCreation #SocialMediaTips #EcoHacks #Pulse95Radio

In this episode, Susana Villasuso, Mexican chef and author of Sobremesa, shares how food can bridge cultures, languages, and generations. Speaking from the Sharjah International Book Fair 2025, she explores the meaning of “sobremesa” — the Mexican tradition of staying at the table long after the meal — and how that spirit of connection translates globally. Susana reflects on her culinary journey from her grandmother's kitchen in Mexico to her life in London, balancing authenticity with innovation while introducing the world to the true depth of Mexican cuisine. She also offers insights for aspiring Arab chefs and writers hoping to publish their own cookbooks, and reminds listeners why food remains one of the most powerful expressions of memory, identity, and love. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #SusanaVillasuso #Sobremesa #MexicanCuisine #CulinaryStories #CulturalHeritage #Pulse95Radio

In this episode, Majd Al Shehhi, Director of the Emirates Reprographic Rights Association (ERRA), highlights the importance of protecting intellectual property and fostering a culture of respect for authors' rights. Speaking from the Sharjah International Book Fair 2025, she explains how ERRA works to ensure fair compensation for writers and publishers, strengthen partnerships with educational institutions, and promote awareness of reprographic rights across the UAE. Majd also discusses the Association's future vision — building a sustainable digital framework to manage licences and safeguard creative works — and why rights awareness is essential to sustaining creativity and empowering the region's literary community. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #ERRA #MajdAlShehhi #AuthorsRights #IntellectualProperty #PublishingInnovation #Pulse95Radio

In this episode, Ahmed Al Ali, General Manager of Kalimat Group, shares the publishing house's vision at the Sharjah International Book Fair 2025 and how it continues to redefine Arabic literature for a new generation. He discusses Kalimat's mission to nurture young readers, champion diverse voices, and bring international authors closer to Arabic-speaking audiences. With a background as a poet, editor, and translator, Ahmed reflects on how creativity informs leadership and how Kalimat is adapting to the digital era through innovation, rights expansion, and mentorship of emerging Arab talent. This conversation offers a look into the evolving landscape of Arabic publishing — and the legacy Kalimat aims to build for generations to come. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #KalimatGroup #AhmedAlAli #ArabicPublishing #ChildrenLiterature #CulturalHeritage #Pulse95Radio

As Sharjah Public Libraries marks 100 years of nurturing a love for books, Eman Bushlaibi, the library network's Director, reflects on how libraries have evolved from quiet reading rooms into dynamic hubs for learning, innovation, and community connection. She discusses the transformation toward digital infrastructure, inclusivity for all residents, and the library's growing role in shaping youth education and career choices. Eman also explores how Sharjah's century-long commitment to literacy continues to guide its vision for the future — where libraries remain both timeless sanctuaries for readers and forward-looking spaces for knowledge and sustainability. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #SharjahPublicLibraries #EmanBushlaibi #KnowledgeHub #ReadingCulture #Sustainability #Pulse95Radio

At the Sharjah International Book Fair 2025, New Zealand-based author Ashia Ismail-Singer brings her signature “global kitchen” to life — where flavours from Africa, India, and Europe meet in a heartfelt celebration of her Memon heritage. In this episode, she talks about her latest cookbook Food for Sharing, and how food becomes a story of migration, belonging, and memory. From her crowd-favourite Parmesan-crumbed paneer with hot honey to reflections on cultural identity and comfort, Ashia shares how simple dishes can transcend borders and connect people through shared experience. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #AshiaIsmailSinger #FoodForSharing #CookeryCorner #CulinaryStories #GlobalCuisine #Pulse95Radio

This episode features Chef Wissam Kahi, co-founder of Eat Offbeat, a social-impact catering company that celebrates refugee and immigrant chefs by bringing their authentic recipes to global audiences. He shares how food can tell powerful human stories — much like literature — and how each dish becomes a bridge between cultures, memories, and identities. Chef Wissam reflects on the intersection of storytelling, design, and inclusivity across the culinary and publishing worlds, revealing how his own heritage and experiences shape his creative philosophy. From childhood recipes to life-changing dishes, this conversation explores how cuisine, like books, has the power to connect hearts, preserve heritage, and inspire empathy across borders. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #EatOffbeat #ChefWissamKahi #CulinaryStories #CulturalHeritage #Pulse95Radio

This episode features Eman Bin Shaiba, Director of Strategic Initiatives and Global Markets at the Sharjah Book Authority, discussing Onshur — a groundbreaking initiative reshaping the future of publishing in the Arab world. She unpacks the three pillars of Onshur — Launch, Scale, and Disrupt — and how they're designed to empower publishers at every stage, from start-ups to global expansion. Eman explores how technology, innovation, and sustainability are redefining Arabic-language publishing, and what it takes to build a lasting, future-ready ecosystem. She also shares her vision for Onshur's legacy — one that champions creativity, cultural exchange, and long-term impact across the region's literary landscape. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #SharjahBookAuthority #Onshur #PublishingInnovation #Pulse95Radio

In this episode, Omar Shahid Hamid — former police officer and acclaimed crime-fiction author — reflects on how years spent in Karachi's counter-terrorism and law enforcement shaped his storytelling. From The Prisoner to The Party Worker, his novels explore the moral grey zones between justice, power, and survival. Hamid discusses how real-world violence and political corruption translate into fiction, why Karachi itself feels like a living character in his work, and how he balances authenticity with sensitivity when writing about the city's underbelly. He also examines how South Asian crime narratives are evolving in the global literary scene, and what universal human truths lie beneath his stories of crime, loyalty, and redemption. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #SharjahBookAuthority #Onshur #PublishingInnovation #Pulse95Radio

This episode features Payal Arora, digital anthropologist and author of The Next Billion Users: Digital Life Beyond the West. She explores how people in the Global South are reshaping the way we think about technology, innovation, and inclusion. From challenging Western tech myths to designing more equitable digital futures, Arora shares insights from decades of fieldwork and her upcoming book From Pessimism to Promise. She discusses the intersection of gender, labour, and digital platforms through her FemLab initiative, and highlights lessons the Middle East and North Africa can draw from emerging markets. Engaging, insightful, and forward-looking — this conversation redefines what it means to create technology for everyone.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with bestselling author Shirley Jump as she shares her journey through romance, inspirational fiction, and mentorship. From balancing humor with emotional depth to crafting authentic characters in books like The Bride Wore Chocolate, Shirley opens up about her creative process, the evolution of her career, and the advice she gives aspiring writers. Discover what shaped her as a storyteller and what's next for this prolific author. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #SharjahBookAuthority #Onshur #PublishingInnovation #Pulse95Radio

Join us for a conversation with Mahra Al Qasir, Official Spokesperson of the House of Wisdom, as she takes us through their exhibition at the Sharjah International Book Fair. Discover the centuries-old intellectual dialogue between Arab and Greek civilizations through rare manuscripts, including the first printed edition of Ibn Sina's Canon of Medicine. A fascinating journey through philosophy, science, and shared heritage. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #SharjahBookAuthority #Onshur #PublishingInnovation #Pulse95Radio

From Law & Order to Pretty Little Liars, acclaimed TV writer and novelist Matt Witten joins us live from the Sharjah International Book Fair to talk about the craft of writing for screen and page. He shares insights from his workshop Five and a Half Steps to Pilot Writing Success, the art of storytelling that hooks an audience, and how thrillers translate from novels to television.

From Kingston to Sharjah, award-winning Jamaican author and filmmaker Marcus Bird joins us live at the Sharjah International Book Fair to talk about storytelling across borders. We dive into culture, identity, and how fiction and film can capture the rhythm of modern life — raw, global, and deeply human.

Live from the Sharjah International Book Fair, we sit down with Paul Lynch — the Booker Prize–winning author of Prophet Song — to talk about storytelling in turbulent times, writing with empathy, and how fiction can help us confront fear without losing our humanity.

At just fifteen, Laiba Zeenath is already making her mark as a published poet. In this episode, she opens up about how her journey with poetry began, the inspirations behind her first verses, and the emotions and themes that drive her writing. Laiba reflects on how poetry has become both a creative outlet and a form of self-expression, offering insight into the books and poets who have shaped her voice. She also shares her hopes for greater support for young writers and what's next in her journey as one of the UAE's emerging literary talents.

This episode features Fotilas Jason, Deputy Minister of Contemporary Culture of Greece, as he reflects on Greece's role as the Guest of Honour at the Sharjah International Book Fair. He shares how the nation's literary and publishing sectors are shaping modern Greek identity while honouring its ancient heritage. The conversation explores Greece's approach to preserving language, fostering cross-cultural dialogue with the Arab world, and integrating sustainability into cultural events and publishing. Fotilas also discusses his long-term vision for Greece's contemporary culture — one that connects tradition, innovation, and a global creative spirit.

In this episode, Dr. Julie Smith, clinical psychologist and bestselling author of Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before?, unpacks the everyday struggles that shape our mental health and how we can build resilience through self-awareness and compassion. She shares practical tools for managing emotions, developing emotional intelligence, and maintaining wellbeing through life's ups and downs. Dr. Smith also discusses her recent book Open When: A Companion for Life's Twists & Turns, exploring how empathy, education, and reading can help us better understand ourselves and others — and why small psychological habits can make the biggest difference.

In this episode, Nikos Bakounakis, President of the Hellenic Foundation for Books and Culture (HFBC), discusses Greece's renewed literary vision and how the foundation is shaping the global reach of Greek publishing. From fostering translation and cultural exchange between Greece and the Arab world to integrating AI and augmented reality through “Phygital Readers,” Bakounakis explores how HFBC balances innovation with tradition. He also shares insights on the challenges facing the book industry today, lessons from Italy's publishing model, and what defines the modern Greek literary brand for international audiences.

Books to Blockbusters is a special segment exploring the transformation of beloved books into blockbuster films. Join us as we discuss fan-favorite adaptations, from those that honored the original stories to others that brought fresh, daring perspectives. We'll delve into the creative journey of adapting cherished narratives for the screen, exploring how these films have reimagined our favorite characters and plots

In this episode, recorded live at the Sharjah International Book Fair, we sit down with Sissy Papathanassiou—historian, author, theatre director, and Greece's Director of Literature and Letters at the Hellenic Ministry of Culture.

Soufiane touches upon the need to allow people of determination the same opportunities as everyone else, especially when it comes to the law. Soufiane brings the conversation down to a heartfelt level by describing the tireless work he has to be put through in order to receive the same treatment as everybody else.

Hanifa moves the listeners with this conversation regarding how mental strength and persistence when it comes to handling being a parent of two children with disabilities. Hanifa highlights the importance of communities and how pivotal they can be when it comes to overcoming life's challenges.

This inspirational conversation opens our hearts to the misconceptions regarding disabilities and how parents need to look after themselves in order to properly nurture and protect their children with disabilities.