Podcasts about Speculative fiction

The Blasters & Blades PodcastFrom the mild-mannered reporter hiding superpowers to the runaway royalty passing as a commoner, speculative fiction is obsessed with secret selves. But why are we so captivated by characters who wear a mask? In this panel discussion, our guests unmask the “Hidden Identity” trope across sci-fi, fantasy, and superhero fiction. We'll explore the deep psychological toll of leading a double life, the delicious tension of near-miss discoveries, and the ultimate, high-stakes fallout when the truth finally comes to light. Join us as we look at how hiding who you are can protect the world—or burn it entirely to the ground. This was a fun interview, so check out this episode. Co-Hosts: JR Handley (Author) (Grunt)Jana S Brown (Author) (Chief Shenanigator)We work for free, so if you wanna throw a few pennies our way there is a linked Buy Me A Coffee site where you can do so. Just mention the podcast in the comments when you donate, and I'll keep the sacred bean water boiling!Support the Show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/AuthorJRHandleyOur LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/blastersandbladespodcastToday's SponsorTell Me A Secret by Chloe Garner: https://a.co/d/0crjpofkFollow Bill McUisdean (Wylder396) on social mediaBill's Website: https://zorne.substack.com/ Bill's Substack: https://substack.com/@wylder396 Bill's Twitter: https://x.com/Wylder396 Follow Chloe Garner on social mediaChloe's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Chloe-Garner/e/B00MD4GGLS/ Chloe's Website: https://blenderfiction.wordpress.com/ Chloe's Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/435117423514398 Chloe's Bookstore: https://blenderfiction.wordpress.com/verida-signed-copies/ Chloe's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/ChloeGarner Follow Jana S Brown on social mediaJana's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jana-S.-Brown/author/B015VJV7JW Jana's Website: www.opalkingdompress.com Jana's Facebook: www.facebook.com/janasbrownwrites Jana's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/opalkingdompress Follow Jena Rey on social mediaJena's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jena-Rey/author/B08XSCHXYXFollow Jarret Keene on social mediaJarret's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jarret-Keene/author/B001JOTUPW Jarret's Website: https://www.jarretkeene.net/ Jarret's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJarretKeene/ Jarret's Publisher: https://darkwolfbooks.com/ Follow Keith Hedger on social mediaKeith's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Keith-Hedger/e/B01N2V9383/ Keith's Website: https://www.keithhedger.com/ Keith's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KeithHedgerAuthor/ Keith's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@keithhedger6504/featured Follow JR Handley on social mediaJR's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/J.-R.-Handley/author/B01N0SEX3A JR's Website: https://jrhandley.com/ JR's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sgt.jr.handley JR's Substack: https://jrhandley.substack.com/ The Ghost Cadet by Elaine Marie Alphin: https://a.co/d/06dhfgQk #scifishenanigans #scifishenaniganspodcast #bbp #blastersandblades #blastersandbladespodcast #podcast #scifipodcast #fantasypodcast #scifi #fantasy #books #rpg #comics #fandom #literature #comedy #veteran #army #armyranger #ranger #scififan #redshirts #scifiworld #sciencefiction #scifidaily #scificoncept #podcastersofinstagram #scificons #podcastlife #podcastsofinstagram #scifibooks #awardwinningscifi #newepisode #podcastersofinstagram #podcastaddict #podcast #scifigeek #scifibook #sfv #scifivisionaries #firesidechat #chat #panel #fireside #religionquestion #coffee #tea #coffeeortea #CoffeeBrandCoffee #JRHandley #NickGarber #MadamStabby #JanaSBrown #JenaRey #OpalKingdomPress #BillMcUisdean #ChloeGarner #MadamChloe #JarretKeene #DrJarretKeene #KeithHedger #HiddenIdenityInSpeculativeFiction #GhostCadet #Dollhouse #Ultraman #Kaiju #Shadow #TheShadow #QuantumLeap #BodySnatcher #SamuelBeckett #RIPD #Kit #KnightRider #Dune #FrankHerbert #PaulAtreides #Fremen #Muad'Dib

What happens when Earth itself becomes the greatest mystery of all?This week on Murder, Mystery, and Mayhem Laced with Morality, Dr. Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes sits down with Colin Brush, author of the gripping science fiction thriller EXO. Combining the intricate intrigue of a spy novel with breathtaking speculative fiction, EXO introduces readers to a future where humanity has abandoned Earth—and where the planet's oceans have transformed into a mysterious, sentient force known as the Caul.Together, Katherine and Colin explore:The inspiration behind EXO and its unforgettable world-building.How mystery, science fiction, and suspense intersect to tell deeply human stories.The challenges of creating morally complex characters and impossible choices.Colin's remarkable publishing journey—from writing jacket copy for more than 5,000 books to publishing his own debut novel.Why curiosity, imagination, and hope remain at the heart of great storytelling.Whether you're a fan of science fiction, thrillers, mysteries, or stories that ask profound questions about humanity's future, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

The Blasters & Blades PodcastBefore there was science fiction, there was mythology: tales of cosmic battles, fickle deities, and the divine laws governing humanity. But how do modern writers breathe new life into ancient faiths without reducing them to mere aesthetic backdrops? Join our panel of authors and worldbuilders as we explore the intersection of ancient theology and speculative fiction. From resurrecting forgotten pantheons in urban fantasy to projecting ancient rituals onto distant, spacefaring civilizations, we'll discuss how to handle sacred texts with respect, the line between cultural appreciation and appropriation, and why humanity remains eternally fascinated by the divine. This was a fun interview, so check it out! We work for free, so if you wanna throw a few pennies our way there is a linked Buy Me A Coffee site where you can do so. Just mention the podcast in the comments when you donate!Support the Show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/AuthorJRHandleyOur LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/blastersandbladespodcastToday's SponsorThe Blasters & Blades Podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/AuthorJRHandleyFollow Claire Merrick on social mediaClaire's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0GWSJGS49Claire's Website: https://clairemerrickwrites.com/Claire's Substack: https://urbantreehouse.substack.com/Follow Bill McUisdean (Wylder396) on social mediaBill's Website: https://zorne.substack.com/Bill's Substack: https://substack.com/@wylder396Bill's Twitter: https://x.com/Wylder396Follow Ronald Lloyd on social mediaRonald's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lloyd.r.mcmillanRonald's Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076911424966Ronald's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Ronmcmillan44#scifishenanigans #scifishenaniganspodcast #bbp #blastersandblades #blastersandbladespodcast #podcast #scifipodcast #fantasypodcast #scifi #fantasy #books #rpg #comics #fandom #literature #comedy #veteran #army #armyranger #ranger #scififan #redshirts #scifiworld #sciencefiction #scifidaily #scificoncept #podcastersofinstagram #scificons #podcastlife #podcastsofinstagram #scifibooks #awardwinningscifi #newepisode #podcastersofinstagram #podcastaddict #podcast #scifigeek #scifibook #sfv #scifivisionaries #firesidechat #chat #panel #fireside #religionquestion #coffee #tea #coffeeortea #CoffeeBrandCoffee #JRHandley #NickGarber #MadamStabby #JanaSBrown #JenaRey #OpalKingdomPress #AncientReligions #SpeculativeFicion #BillMcUisdean #RonaldLloyd #MythPunk #MythologyRetelling #AncientHistory #ComparativeReligion #FolkloreAndMyth #SpeculativeFiction #SpecFic #FantasyWorldbuilding #SciFiFantasy #UrbanFantasy #EpicFantasy #Worldbuilding #WritingCommunity #AuthorPanel #WritingTips #FictionalWorlds #BookTok #Bookstagram #FantasyReads #MythologyBooks #Bookish #Mythology #RickRiordan #WaterBoy #TheWaterBoy #Cider #Christian #Zeus #Jupiter #Hera #Juno #Poseidon #Neptune #Hades #Pluto #Athena #Minerva #Ares #Mars #Hecate #Trivia #Apollo #Phoebus #Artemis #Diana #Hermes #Mercury #Dionysus #Bacchus #Hephaestus #Vulcan #Aphrodite #Venus #Demeter #Ceres #HadesAndPersephone #Hecate #NorseGods #Norse #Odin #Allfather #Thor #Loki #Freya #Freyja #Hel #NorseMythology #AztecGods #Quetzalcoatl #Tezcatlipoca #jaguar #godofsorcery #Huitzilopochtli #Mictlantecuhtli #AztecMythology #SumerianGods #MesopotamianGods #Gilgamesh #Ishtar #Inanna #Enki #Enlil #SumerianMythology #MesopotamianMythology #EgyptianGods #Anubis #Egyptian #Osiris #Isis #Set #Seth #Thoth #Sekhmet #EgyptianMythology #ComparativeMythology #AncientPantheons #MesopotamianPantheon #Sumerian #Akkadian #Assyrian #Ishtar #Akkadian #Babylonian #Sumerian #Ishtar #Inanna #Pantheon #Mesopotamian #Babylonian #Ishtar #Inanna #Gilgamesh #EpicOfGilgamesh #Ereshkigal #Enki #Marduk #Babylon #Pazuzu #MesopotamianMythology #BabylonianMythology #SumerianMythology #AncientNearEast #CradleOfCivilization #Inanna

Send us Fan MailAuthor, pirate, and return guest Liz Shipton stops by to talk about engaging in real-world issues through speculative fiction with a focus on humor and female rage, and how those aspects impacted the overall message of her story.▬Check out Liz's fantastical adventures on her website:https://lizshipton.com/Grab a copy of her books here:https://shop.lizshipton.com/Follow Liz's stories further on her socials:https://www.facebook.com/lizshiptonauthorhttps://www.instagram.com/lizshiptonauthor

In this episode, I chat with Zac Cannon about his new speculative thriller Stillwater Trace! Listen to hear about: How a "dad action movie" premise transformed into a layered thriller exploring faith, power, surveillance, and belonging—and why Zac let the story evolve far beyond his original concept. The real-world inspirations behind Stillwater Trace, from corporate master-planned communities and culture wars to religious deconstruction, and how current events shaped the novel without making it feel tied to one moment in time. The craft of writing cinematic suspense, including how Zac's screenwriting background influences his novels, why he physically acts out action scenes, and how character—not spectacle—ultimately drives the story. Check Out Author Social Media PackagesCheck out the Bookwild Community on PatreonCheck Out My Stories Are My Religion SubstackGet Bookwild MerchFollow @imbookwild on InstagramOther Co-hosts On Instagram:Gare Billings @gareindeedreadsSteph Lauer @books.in.badgerlandHalley Sutton @halleysutton25Brian Watson @readingwithbrianMacKenzie Green @missusa2mba

Science · Jacob and Lucas | Space Exploration & Speculative Fiction

The Blasters & Blades PodcastFrom the soaring epics of modern fantasy to the distant, alien ruins of far-future sci-fi, creators have always looked backward to build worlds moving forward. But how do you successfully translate the majesty, mythos, and complexity of ancient human civilizations into speculative worlds? In this panel discussion, our guests explore how real-world history—from Mesopotamian city-states to Mesoamerican astronomy—inspires the politics, magic systems, and technologies of our favorite fictional universes. Join us as we discuss the fine line between creative inspiration and lazy stereotypes, and how the deep past continues to shape the future of storytelling. This was a fun interview, so go check it out. Lend us your eyes and ears, you won't be sorry!! Co-Hosts:JR Handley (Author) (Grunt)Jana S Brown (Author) (Chief Shenanigator)We work for free, so if you wanna throw a few pennies our way there is a linked Buy Me A Coffee site where you can do so. Just mention the podcast in the comments when you donate, and I'll keep the sacred bean water boiling!Support the Show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/AuthorJRHandleyOur LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/blastersandbladespodcast Today's SponsorFreedom's Vow: Shepherd Trilogy by B.K. Gibson: https://a.co/d/08HYjYaq Follow B.K. Gibson on social mediaGibson's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/bkgibsonwriter Gibson's Website: https://www.bkgibson.com/ Gibson's Twitter: https://x.com/bkgibsonwrites Gibson's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61589323534470 Gibson's Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@DirtbaggeryBookReviews/streams Coldlight Press: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/publisher/11446/Coldlight-PressFollow Jacob Sharp on social mediaJacob's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jacob-Sharp/author/B0F3WHJXBW Jacob's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jacob.sharp.writes/ Follow Jana S Brown on social mediaJana's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jana-S.-Brown/author/B015VJV7JW Jana's Website: www.opalkingdompress.com Jana's Facebook: www.facebook.com/janasbrownwrites Jana's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janasbrownwrites/ Jana's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/opalkingdompress Follow Jena Rey on social mediaJena's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jena-Rey/author/B08XSCHXYXFollow Jesse James Fain on social mediaJesse's Amazon: http://amazon.com/author/jessejamesfain Jesse's Website: https://outlawauthor.com/ Jesse's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JesseJamesFain Jesse's Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/OutlawAuthor/ Jesse's Substack: https://jessejamesfain.substack.com/ Follow Melissa McShane on social mediaMelissa's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Melissa-McShane/author/B00TON8E1Q Melissa's Website: www.melissamcshanewrites.com Melissa's Twitter: www.twitter.com/melissamcshanewrites Melissa's Facebook: www.facebook.com/melissamcshanewrites Melissa's Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mcshaneminions Melissa's Discord: https://discord.gg/wKXUe89Kh7 Melissa's Store: http://www.nightharborpress.com/ Dan Davis History Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DanDavisHistory/videos #scifishenanigans #scifishenaniganspodcast #bbp #blastersandblades #blastersandbladespodcast #podcast #scifipodcast #fantasypodcast #scifi #fantasy #books #rpg #comics #fandom #literature #comedy #veteran #army #armyranger #ranger #scififan #redshirts #scifiworld #sciencefiction #scifidaily #scificoncept #podcastersofinstagram #scificons #podcastlife #podcastsofinstagram #scifibooks #awardwinningscifi #newepisode #podcastersofinstagram #podcastaddict #podcast #scifigeek #scifibook #sfv #scifivisionaries #firesidechat #chat #panel #fireside #religionquestion #coffee #tea #coffeeortea #CoffeeBrandCoffee #JRHandley #NickGarber #MadamStabby #JanaSBrown #JenaRey #OpalKingdomPress #AncientCultures #BKGibson #JacobSharp #JesseJamesFain #OutlawAuthor #MelissaMcShane

Chapter 734 - "It's Not Who I Was" ...as read by Nick Vicario of Smirk Today we welcome Smirk frontman Nick Vicario to the podcast. The new Smirk record, Speculative Fiction, is out today on Smoking Room Records. Nick talks about getting national coverage at the age of 12, his lifelong pursuit of creating music, moving across the country, wanting to create a more mature Smirks record, and more.https://smirk1.bandcamp.comDiscordPatreonSubstack Email: asthestorygrows@gmail.com Chapter 734 Music: Smirk - "Victimry" Smirk - "Cheap Greed" Smirk - "I Shall Be Released" Smirk - "Crime Pays"

What's the key to choosing comp (comparative) titles that pique an agent's curiosity? Should you use films or tv shows? What about huge bestsellers — would those make good comps, and if so, in which circumstances? In today's episode, Kathleen and I discuss an upmarket speculative thriller and discuss comp title choices, killer opening lines and, you guessed it ... exposition! And if you want to read the query letters and first 10 pages writing samples we discuss in these Hook Your Reader episodes, be sure to subscribe to my mailing list. -V. Submit your query letter and first 10 pages writing sample at storynerd.ca.For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.To subscribe to Kat's Keynotes (Substack), click here.Watch us on YouTube!

The Blasters & Blades PodcastFrom the hunger-driven districts of Panem to the red-dusted mines of Mars, speculative fiction has always been a fertile breeding ground for rebellion. But what does it actually take to topple an empire on the page? Join our panel of authors and worldbuilders as we dissect the anatomy of fictional revolutions. We'll explore how to build believable oppressive regimes, the logistics of underground resistance movements, and the moral gray areas of fighting for freedom. From sci-fi cyberpunk uprisings to epic fantasy peasant revolts, this discussion will examine how speculative fiction mirrors our real-world struggles for justice—and what happens after the rebels win the throne. This was a fun interview, go check it out. Co-Hosts: JR & NickWe work for free, so if you wanna throw a few pennies our way there is a linked Buy Me A Coffee site where you can do so. Just mention the podcast in the comments when you donate, and I'll keep the sacred bean water boiling!Support Us: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/AuthorJRHandleyLinkTree: https://linktr.ee/blastersandbladespodcastToday's SponsorThe Wounded Warrior Project: https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/Follow James Young on social mediaJames' Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/kindle-dbs/entity/author/B00AVKCQZQJames' Website: https://jamesyoungauthor.comJames' Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ColfaxDenFollow Keith Hedger on social mediaKeith's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Keith-Hedger/e/B01N2V9383Keith's Website: https://www.keithhedger.com/Keith's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KeithHedgerAuthorFollow Steve Caldwell on social mediaSteve's Website: https://thebookwyrmspeaks.blogspot.com/Follow Matthew Olaranont on social mediaMatt's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/kilroyhigginsFollow Yet Another Writing Podcast on social mediaYAW Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IlliterateBastards/YAW Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/32U2ClIwLXHI8GgPMZLogW?si=2231197b8f26430d&nd=1YAW Podcast: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5b7dbed0-1220-424f-b82e-34c57b249e41/yet-another-writing-podcastYAW Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9lMWY4N2ZhMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw#scifishenanigans #scifishenaniganspodcast #bbp #blastersandblades #blastersandbladespodcast #podcast #scifipodcast #fantasypodcast #scifi #fantasy #books #rpg #comics #fandom #literature #comedy #veteran #army #armyranger #ranger #scififan #redshirts #scifiworld #sciencefiction #scifidaily #scificoncept #podcastersofinstagram #scificons #podcastlife #podcastsofinstagram #scifibooks #awardwinningscifi #newepisode #podcastersofinstagram #podcastaddict #podcast #scifigeek #scifibook #sfv #scifivisionaries #firesidechat #chat #panel #fireside #religionquestion #coffee #tea #coffeeortea #CoffeeBrandCoffee #JRHandley #NickGarber #MadamStabby #JanaSBrown #JenaRey #OpalKingdomPress #JamesYoung #WordSlinger #KeithHedger #SteveCaldwell #MatthewOlaranot #RevolutionarySpeculativeFiction #Rebellion #Revolution #Revolutionary #RedRising #PierceBrown #Mistborn #BrandonSanderson #ThePowderMageTrilogy #BrianMcClellan #AncillaryJustice #AnnLeckie #TheFoundationSeries #IsaacAsimov #TheDispossessed #UrsulaKLeGuin #TheExpanseSeries #JamesSACorey #PathToVillainy #SLRowland #SunEater #ChristopherRuocchio #OldMansWar #JohnScalzi #FourWaysToForgiveness #TheRageOfDragons #EvanWinter #AnEmberInTheAshes #SabaaTahir #TheWilloftheMany #JamesIslington #JadeCity #FondaLee #HungerGames #SuzanneCollins #TheBrokenEarthTrilogy #NKJemisin #TheDivergentSeries #VeronicaRoth #Destroyer #MichaelScottEarle #EmpireOfTheVampire #JayKristoff #ACrownForColdSilver #AlexMarshall #WraithKnight #CTPhipps #RevolutionaryFiction #Rebellion #Resistance #ToppleTheEmpire #DystopianFiction #PoliticalSciFi #SpeculativeFiction #SpecFic #SciFiFantasy #Grimdark #Cyberpunk #EpicFantasy #Worldbuilding #WritingCommunity #AuthorPanel #WritingTips #CharacterArc #DystopianBooks #SciFiReads #FantasyBooks

The Blasters & Blades PodcastWhat happens to humanity when we leave civilization behind? This week, our panel ventures out past the safety of the perimeter to explore the concept of the frontier in sci-fi, fantasy, and horror. From the lawless outer rims of distant galaxies to the monster-infested borders of uncharted magical wilderness, we are dissecting why the “edge of the map” remains the ultimate testing ground for the human spirit. Join us as we discuss the grit, the isolation, and the terrifying freedom that can only be found when you cross the line into the untamed unknown. This was a fun interview, so check out this episode. Lend us your eyes and ears, you won't be sorry!! Co-Hosts: JR Handley (Author) (Grunt)Nick Garber (Comic Book Artist) (Super Grunt)Jana S Brown (Author) (Chief Shenanigator)We work for free, so if you wanna throw a few pennies our way there is a linked Buy Me A Coffee site where you can do so. Just mention the podcast in the comments when you donate, and I'll keep the sacred bean water boiling!Support the Show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/AuthorJRHandley Our LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/blastersandbladespodcast Today's SponsorThe Shamans Bones by Hunter Kay Wallace: https://a.co/d/0bhW88F8 Follow Bill McUisdean (Wylder396) on social mediaBill's Website: https://zorne.substack.com/ Bill's Substack: https://substack.com/@wylder396 Bill's Twitter: https://x.com/Wylder396 Follow Jana S Brown on social mediaJana's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jana-S.-Brown/author/B015VJV7JW Jana's Website: www.opalkingdompress.com Jana's Facebook: www.facebook.com/janasbrownwrites Jana's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/opalkingdompress Follow Jena Rey on social mediaJena's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jena-Rey/author/B08XSCHXYX Follow Jesse James Fain on social mediaJesse's Amazon: http://amazon.com/author/jessejamesfain Jesse's Website: https://outlawauthor.com/ Jesse's Twitter: https://x.com/JesseJamesBooks Jesse's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JesseJamesFain Jesse's Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/OutlawAuthor/ Jesse's Substack: https://jessejamesfain.substack.com/Follow JR Handley on social mediaJR's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/J.-R.-Handley/author/B01N0SEX3A JR's Website: https://jrhandley.com/ JR's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sgt.jr.handley JR's Substack: https://jrhandley.substack.com/ Follow Keith Hedger on social mediaKeith's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Keith-Hedger/e/B01N2V9383/ Keith's Website: https://www.keithhedger.com/ Keith's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KeithHedgerAuthor/ Keith's Twitter: https://x.com/KHedger30260 Follow Melissa McShane on social mediaMelissa's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Melissa-McShane/author/B00TON8E1Q Melissa's Website: www.melissamcshanewrites.com Melissa's Facebook: www.facebook.com/melissamcshanewrites Melissa's Discord: https://discord.gg/wKXUe89Kh7 Melissa's Store: http://www.nightharborpress.com/ #scifishenanigans #scifishenaniganspodcast #bbp #blastersandblades #blastersandbladespodcast #podcast #scifipodcast #fantasypodcast #scifi #fantasy #books #rpg #comics #fandom #literature #comedy #veteran #army #armyranger #ranger #scififan #redshirts #scifiworld #sciencefiction #scifidaily #scificoncept #podcastersofinstagram #scificons #podcastlife #podcastsofinstagram #scifibooks #awardwinningscifi #newepisode #podcastersofinstagram #podcastaddict #podcast #scifigeek #scifibook #sfv #scifivisionaries #firesidechat #chat #panel #fireside #religionquestion #coffee #tea #coffeeortea #CoffeeBrandCoffee #JRHandley #NickGarber #MadamStabby #JanaSBrown #JenaRey #OpalKingdomPress #frontier #Frontiers #speculativefictionfrontier #BillMcUisdean #Wylder396 #JesseJamesFain #OutlawAuthor #OutlawAuthorJesseJames #OutlawAuthorJesseJamesFain #KeithHedger #MelissaMcShane #Warmaster #WarMistress #Warhamster #HunterKayWallace #ShamansBones

Ten Days remain to enter your book into the Cygnus, Ozma, and Shelley Awards! If you have a great work of speculative fiction, we want to celebrate it!

On July 3rd, Nick Vicario will unveil Speculative Fiction, the third album from his (mostly) solo power-pop project SMIRK. The record features a slight shift in sound toward a more measured, mature approach, but is chock-full of catchiness and memorable moments.Music by:QuicksandSmirkTruck ViolenceIntro music by:Hot ZonePatreon: https://www.patreon.com/GettingitoutpodcastEmail: dan@gettingitout.netWebsite: http://gettingitout.net/Instagram: @getting_it_out_podcastFacebook: www.facebook.com/gettingitoutpodcastX: @GettingItOutPodSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/getting-it-out. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stories featured in this episode:The Waitlist, or Today is a Good Day to Die by Ai Jiang - https://aijiangauthor.wordpress.com/ -music by Oneirothopter -read by Jean-Paul Garnier -The Twain Shall Meet by Brent A. Harris - https://brentaharris.com/ -music by Phog Masheeen - https://phogmasheeen.com/   -read by Jenna Hanchey -theme music by Dain Luscombe -Simultaneous Times science fiction podcast began in March of 2018 and has since produced 100 episodes featuring 196 stories and 10 poems by 108 authors from over 20 countries. In this time, we have produced collaboration episodes with Apex Magazine, Radon Journal, Hexagon, Sci-Fi Lampoon, Shacklebound Books, Worlds of IF, and Utopia SF Magazine. We also produced three paperback anthologies, and one ebook anthology, of stories and authors from the podcast. -During the nine year run of Simultaneous Times we have won the Laureate Award, been a finalist for the Fiyah, BSFA, and British Fantasy Awards, and been long-listed for the Hugo Award three times. As of episode 100 we will no longer be producing episodes on a monthly basis but will rather move to a “when we feel like it” schedule, most likely creating two to four episodes a year. We will be redirecting our efforts (and finances) to publishing more books and our new magazine Electronic Brain. -A huge thank you to all of our authors, composers, narrators, and to our listeners! -Find all of our evergreen episodes at https://spacecowboybooks.bandcamp.com/ -Simultaneous Times is a monthly science fiction podcast produced by Space Cowboy Books in Joshua Tree, CA. https://www.spacecowboybooks.com https://ko-fi.com/spacecowboybooks7054

Loghan Paylor (MFA'20) didn't set out to win CBC's Canada Reads competition. They were just trying to write the book they needed to write. In this episode, the author of The Cure for Drowning—winner of Canada Reads 2026, Giller Prize longlistee, and Rakuten Kobo Emerging Writer Prize finalist—opens up about non-linear creative processes, writing queer and trans characters with care, the pros and cons of an MFA, and why the best writing advice has nothing to do with aesthetic morning routines.Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:TranscriptContact CarolContact JeevanFrom Here ForwardPodium Podcast CompanyLoghan PaylorCanada ReadsLearn more about the UBC MFA in Creative Writing (00:00) - Introduction (01:42) - Meet Loghan Paylor (02:26) - Canada Reads whirlwind (03:02) - Publicity, introversion, and support (04:22) - The “gap” that wasn't: writing life between milestones (05:29) - Favourite passages and hard-won scenes (06:44) - The Post-it drafting method (08:27) - Finding your process (and ignoring aesthetics) (11:18) - Old drafts, saved folders, and ideas that return (13:18) - Characters, POV, and writing identity (14:52) - Writing Ontario: memory, place, and research accuracy (17:11) - Nature and climate grief (18:17) - Bookworm Games and creative balance (20:14) - Reading influences (21:16) - UBC MFA and becoming a professional writer (24:44) - Advice for emerging writers (27:26) - Reader messages and impact (29:14) - Reviews and boundaries (30:16) - Conclusion

As we wrap up our 5th season on Tales From The Bridge we thought we'd share some interview highlights from the past year. We've got some fun moments here, and we hope you enjoy. We've included excerpts from our conversations with Chris Hadfield, Travis Baldree, Mike Carey, James Rollins, Tade Thompson, Neil Clarke, Hugh Howey, Claire North, Arkady Martine, and the legendary Joe Haldeman.We will have more science fiction (or ‘speculative fiction' - if you must), authors joining us on the Bridge. We've also got more book and film reviews on the way. Let us know if there's a book or film that you want us to review on the podcast!You can always reach us on our social media or email us at talesfromthebridgepodcast@gmail.com Link tree https://linktr.ee/talesfromthebridge

Sometimes, the truth is weirder and stranger than anything we could make up -- and that's something a worldbuilder can use to their benefit! Guest Gabriella Buba joins us to talk about building real science into our magical worlds -- and the implications that can, in turn, have about a society's relationship with information, education, and the power structures that both derive from and control them. When blending science and magic together, writers can play with a lot of different factors and considerations. Is magic in a given world really about the movement of electrons or the interaction of chemicals, or is it a truly unexplainable force? What do your characters think about the scientific realities of their world? How do they test theories, and do they have a magical R&D department? And what might be the difference between how much the writer needs to know, how much the characters need to know, and how much the reader needs to know? Finding the balance can be tricky, and won't be the same for every project, but getting it right can add invaluable texture to your world. [Transcript for Episode 182] Our Guest: Gabriella Buba is a mixed Filipina-Czech author-illustrator and chemical engineer based in Texas who likes to keep explosive pyrophoric materials safely contained in pressure vessels or between the covers of her books. She writes epic fantasy for bold, bi, brown women who deserve to see their stories centered. Her debut SAINTS OF STORM AND SORROW, a Filipino-inspired epic fantasy, was shortlisted for the 2025 Aldiss Award for World Building in Speculative Fiction. The sequel DAUGHTERS OF FLOOD AND FURY was a top trending Spotify LGBTQ+ Audiobook title. Her work as part of the anthology Witchcraft: Folk Tales & Horror Short Stories edited by Marie O'Regan & Paul Kane was a #1 New Release on Amazon. She has a Gothic Novella set during the Japanese Occupation of Manila coming with Absinthe Books Spring 2027. Alchemist of Bohemia her next novel will be out May 2027 with Titan Books. She has a Filipino Fantasy short stories in the anthologies Strange Religion: Speculative Fiction of Spirituality, Belief, & Practice & Of Stardust: A Queer Fantastical Anthology volume 1 & 2, Short stories placed with the Sci Phi Journal and PodCastle Fiction and essays on Filipino Identity in Prairie Fire Press and With Love: What We Wish We Knew About Being Queer and Filipino in America.

In this episode, I talk with Isabel J. Kim about her debut speculative fiction, Sublimation!   Listen to hear about: How Isabel J. Kim's inspiration for Sublimation came from her own experience growing up between Korea and the United States and wondering how different her life might have been if she had stayed in Korea permanently. Why "instancing" (where you split into two people when you cross a border) worked so well as a speculative framework to explore identity, immigration, belonging, and the ways environment shapes who we become over time. The process of expanding her short story into a novel, which required adding new perspectives and characters to show that different people would experience the phenomenon of instancing in radically different ways. How she chose to approach borders as both physical and social constructs, examining how governments, corporations, immigration systems, and personal choices all influence identity and belonging. Why speculative fiction often isn't really about the future—it uses imagined worlds to examine present-day social, political, and cultural tensions through a different lens. Check Out Author Social Media PackagesCheck out the Bookwild Community on PatreonCheck Out My Stories Are My Religion SubstackGet Bookwild MerchFollow @imbookwild on InstagramOther Co-hosts On Instagram:Gare Billings @gareindeedreadsSteph Lauer @books.in.badgerlandHalley Sutton @halleysutton25Brian Watson @readingwithbrianMacKenzie Green @missusa2mba

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Virgil and Bob discuss Sacheverell, originally published in The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, March 1964.If you want a refresher, you can listen to the story and our conversation with Ryan Sprinkle.https://youtu.be/NzyRt4Z3Zbo?si=5s39FQGpHyx2h5gv Episode Summary: Virgil and Bob dive into one of Avram Davidson's wonderfully strange and darkly funny tales, where appearances, assumptions, and human nature all get turned upside down. Sacheverell mixes absurdity, social commentary, and Davidson's trademark oddness into a story that starts with a mysterious figure in a room and unfolds into something far stranger than expected. Along the way, expect discussion about fear, prejudice, manipulation, who the real "beast" might be, and how Davidson somehow manages to make readers laugh while making them slightly uncomfortable at the same time. Also likely: detours into Davidson himself and appreciation for stories that become weirder the longer you think about them. Hashtags: #Sacheverell #AvramDavidson #FantasyAndScienceFiction #FandSF #WeirdFiction #ClassicFantasy #SpeculativeFiction #BookPodcast #FantasyPodcast #ScienceFiction #LiteraryPodcast #ShortStories #CultFiction #FantasyReaders #BobAndVirgil #RyanSprinkle #VintageFantasy #BookDiscussion #SurrealFiction #LiteraryFantasy

Send us Fan MailSend us Fan MailIn this thought-provoking episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, we are joined by Diana Colleen, an award-winning speculative fiction author whose debut novel, *They Could Be Saviors*, challenges our perspectives on billionaires, psychedelics, and the future of our planet. Diana shares her personal journey, from a dark place of despair to discovering the life-altering potential of psychedelic-assisted therapy. She recounts how this transformative experience inspired her to write a book that not only entertains but also ignites hope for change.Diana delves into the pressing issues of climate change and wealth inequality, arguing that the responsibility for change lies with the world's billionaires, whose actions have a far greater impact than the collective efforts of the masses. She discusses the balance of hope and despair in her writing, aiming to create a narrative that empowers readers to believe in the possibility of a better future.Listeners will gain insights into the unique premise of Diana's novel, which explores the use of psychedelic therapy to awaken billionaires to their role in societal issues. She also addresses common misconceptions about psychedelics, highlighting their potential for both personal healing and cultural transformation.Join us for an enlightening conversation that encourages reflection on privilege, responsibility, and the power of kindness in creating a better world. Diana's journey of writing and self-discovery serves as a reminder that hope can emerge from action, and every individual has the power to contribute to positive change.What You'll Learn in This Episode:- The inspiration behind Diana's debut novel, *They Could Be Saviors*- The role of billionaires in addressing climate change and wealth inequality- How psychedelic therapy can foster connection and empathy- The importance of hope in the face of societal crises- Tips for readers on using fiction as a tool for self-reflection and growthFor more information on Diana Colleen and her work, visit  https://www.dianacolleenauthor.com and check out her Substack for thought-provoking essays and updates on her upcoming projects.Support the show

What makes fantasy, paranormal fiction, and supernatural storytelling so powerful in capturing the imagination? In this fascinating and creative episode, Gail Martin of DreamSpinner Communications explores the worlds of fantasy, science fiction, paranormal fiction, and the art of crafting unforgettable stories that transport readers beyond ordinary reality. Drawing from decades of experience in writing, publishing, and communications, Gail Z. Martin discusses the inspiration behind her storytelling, the enduring appeal of supernatural themes, and how fantasy worlds often reflect real human struggles, hopes, and fears. She explores why readers continue to be drawn toward tales of magic, mystery, dark forces, heroes, and hidden worlds. This episode invites listeners into the imagination itself. Why do paranormal and fantasy stories resonate so deeply across cultures and generations? How does speculative fiction allow us to explore human nature in new ways? And what role does creativity play in helping people process both reality and possibility? Join us for a rich and imaginative conversation that journeys through fantasy, paranormal intrigue, and storytelling—where creativity opens portals to other worlds, and where imagination becomes limitless.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-x-zone-radio-tv-show--1078348/support.Please note that all XZBN radio and/or television shows are Copyright © REL-MAR McConnell Meda Company, Niagara, Ontario, Canada – www.rel-mar.com. For more Episodes of this show and all shows produced, broadcasted and syndicated from REL-MAR McConell Media Company and The 'X' Zone Broadcast Network and the 'X' Zone TV Channell, visit www.xzbn.net. For programming, distribution, and syndication inquiries, email programming@xzbn.net.We are proud to announce the we have launched TWATNews.com, launched in August 2025.TWATNews.com is an independent online news platform dedicated to uncovering the truth about Donald Trump and his ongoing influence in politics, business, and society. Unlike mainstream outlets that often sanitize, soften, or ignore stories that challenge Trump and his allies, TWATNews digs deeper to deliver hard-hitting articles, investigative features, and sharp commentary that mainstream media won't touch.These are stories and articles that you will not read anywhere else.Our mission is simple: to expose corruption, lies, and authoritarian tendencies while giving voice to the perspectives and evidence that are often marginalized or buried by corporate-controlled media

Sci-fi author, filmmaker, comic creator, and Hip Hop Horror pioneer Jeff Carroll joins The USDN Podcast for a deep conversation about Black speculative fiction, indie comics, Afrofuturism, Hip Hop culture, horror, AI, filmmaking, and the future of storytelling.Inspired by his documentary Why I Love Sci-Fi, Jeff discusses why imagination matters, how science fiction shapes culture, and why indie comics provide creative freedom that Hollywood often cannot.Topics include:Black sci-fi and AfrofuturismIndie comics & creator-owned storytellingHip Hop horrorAI and speculative fictionComic culture & filmmakingDef Comedy Jam and entertainment historyWhy science fiction mattersThis episode explores creator-owned comics, Black sci-fi, speculative storytelling, comic culture, and the future of independent creativity.If you love indie comics, science fiction, horror, Afrofuturism, worldbuilding, creator interviews, or speculative fiction — this episode is for you.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Virgil and Bob discuss The Hills Behind Hollywood High, originally published in The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction (April 1983), written by Grania Davis and Avram Davidson. If you want a refresher, you can listen to the story and our conversation with Scott Bradfield: thttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KUY9iRDtaIk Episode Summary: What happens when old Hollywood dreams, strange transformations, satire, and pure absurdity collide? Virgil and Bob wander into the bizarre hills behind Hollywood High, where ordinary teenagers, beauty standards, movie culture, and Davidson-style weirdness crash together in ways only Grania Davis and Avram Davidson could imagine. Expect discussion about Hollywood illusions, identity, transformation, the strange price of fitting in, and why some of the funniest stories can also be deeply unsettling. Along the way, they'll probably take a few side roads through old Los Angeles, forgotten movie culture, and the delightfully odd corners where fantasy and satire overlap. #FantasyLiterature #AvramDavidson #GraniaDavis #hollywoodhighlights #FantasyAndScienceFiction #bookpodcast #classicfantasy #sciencefiction #weirdfiction #literarypodcast #OldHollywood #speculativefiction #fantasyreaders #podcastepisode

Send us Fan MailIn today's episode, I'm joined by Michelle Maryk to discuss her debut novel, The Found Object Society—an atmospheric speculative suspense story that blends grief, curiosity, addiction, and the supernatural into a wholly original reading experience.Michelle shares her journey back to fiction after careers in acting, comedy, and voice work, and how those experiences helped shape her confidence and voice as a writer. We talk about her lifelong love of horror and speculative fiction, the emotional themes underneath the story, and the kind of reading experience she hopes to create for readers. This conversation explores storytelling, creativity, grief, and learning to trust yourself on the page—all while diving into a novel built around a mysterious society where members can relive the final moments of someone else's life.Episode Highlights:How Michelle's background in improv, acting, and comedy shaped her writing voiceWhy speculative fiction and horror have always felt like home to her as a storytellerWhat she hopes readers take away from The Found Object SocietyConnect with Michelle:InstagramFacebookWebsiteSome links are affiliate links, which are no extra cost to you but do help to support the show.Books and authors mentioned in the episode:Margaret Atwood booksMidnight in the Bright Ideas Bookstore by Matthew SullivanMidnight at Soap Lake by Matthew SullivanLou Berney booksMegan Abbott booksOn Writing by Stephen KingTime and Again by Jack FinneyKing of Ashes by S.A. CrosbyThe Doorman by Chris PavoneBook FlightThe Paradox Hotel by Rob HartThe Dream Hotel by Laila LalamiGood Neighbors by Sarah Langan✨ Find Your Next Great Read! We just hit 175 episodes of Bookish Flights, and to celebrate, I created the Bookish Flights Roadmap — a guide to all 175 podcast episodes, sorted by genre to help you find your next great read faster.Explore it here → www.bookishflights.com/read/roadmapSupport the showBe sure to join the Bookish Flights community on social media. Happy listening!InstagramFacebookWebsite

What if ancient relics held the power to alter humanity's destiny? In this thrilling and imaginative episode, Lanaia Lee explores Skulls of Salvation, a story that blends mystery, mythology, and high-stakes adventure into a journey filled with hidden knowledge and cosmic intrigue. Drawing from themes of ancient wisdom, prophecy, and spiritual symbolism, Lanaia discusses the inspiration behind the story and the powerful imagery surrounding mystical skulls said to possess extraordinary significance. She explores how legends, archetypes, and speculative ideas can be woven into storytelling that challenges perceptions of history, power, and human potential. This episode invites listeners into a world where myth and imagination collide. Why are ancient artifacts and sacred relics so deeply embedded in human culture? What role do mystery and symbolism play in storytelling? And how do tales of hidden knowledge continue to captivate audiences across generations? Join us for a fascinating and immersive conversation that journeys into the unknown—where adventure meets prophecy, and where the search for salvation may uncover truths far beyond imagination.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-x-zone-radio-tv-show--1078348/support.Please note that all XZBN radio and/or television shows are Copyright © REL-MAR McConnell Meda Company, Niagara, Ontario, Canada – www.rel-mar.com. For more Episodes of this show and all shows produced, broadcasted and syndicated from REL-MAR McConell Media Company and The 'X' Zone Broadcast Network and the 'X' Zone TV Channell, visit www.xzbn.net. For programming, distribution, and syndication inquiries, email programming@xzbn.net.We are proud to announce the we have launched TWATNews.com, launched in August 2025.TWATNews.com is an independent online news platform dedicated to uncovering the truth about Donald Trump and his ongoing influence in politics, business, and society. Unlike mainstream outlets that often sanitize, soften, or ignore stories that challenge Trump and his allies, TWATNews digs deeper to deliver hard-hitting articles, investigative features, and sharp commentary that mainstream media won't touch.These are stories and articles that you will not read anywhere else.Our mission is simple: to expose corruption, lies, and authoritarian tendencies while giving voice to the perspectives and evidence that are often marginalized or buried by corporate-controlled media

Stories featured in this episode:The Fun They Hadn't by James Machell - https://jamesmachell.com/ -music by TSG - https://tsgmusic.bandcamp.com/ -    read by Jean-Paul Garnier -Ephemera by Tonya R. Moore - https://tonyarmoore.com/ -music by Phog Masheeen - https://phogmasheeen.com/ -   read by Jenna Hanchey -theme music by Dain Luscombe -Simultaneous Times is a monthly science fiction podcast produced by Space Cowboy Books in Joshua Tree, CA. -https://www.spacecowboybooks.com -https://ko-fi.com/spacecowboybooks7054

In this episode Mark interviews Canadian writer Colleen Anderson about writing horror and speculative fiction and poetry as well as non-fiction articles. Prior to the interview, Mark shares comments from recent episode, a personal update, and a word from this episode's sponsor. This episode is sponsored by Author Nation, being held in Las Vegas Nov 13 through 14, 2026 Learn more about Author Nation and register at AuthorNation.live. In the interview, Mark and Colleen talk about: How they've known each other mostly online Colleen's editing of the Tesseracts Seventeen anthology which Mark had a story in The Canadian horror anthology that Mark and Colleen Anderson are going to be which is coming in December 2026 Colleen's forthcoming poetry collection (TO THE LAST ION) and the poetry collection she published last year How Colleen uses such things as an instance of alien abduction and body horror in one of her poems to illustrate societal observations about things like the way we do body modifications or live within a world of stereotypes The prevalence of body horror lately and how it's often about a loss of control A look at universal monsters in a recent article Colleen wrote A definition of what body horror is, and a discussion of the Bram Stoker Award winning novel Queen of Teeth The days of paper manuscript submissions and the logistics involved in that The open mic workshop that takes place at places like StokerCon for speculative and horror poetry How Colleen decides what format an idea is going to take Putting in her "poet brain" instead of her "fiction writer brain" in some instances The methods Colleen uses to find markets to submit her writing to and how some of them work Finding and applying for various grants for writers/artists/creatives Advice Colleen would offer to writers wanting to submit their writing to various markets Colleen's first experience doing a live reading Some of the conferences Colleen is going to be attending in the next little while Where people can find Colleen online After the interview Mark reflects on the value of writing and submitting short pieces and the potential earning. He also talks about CanCon and the way different music/sounds can stir up emotions and deep memories and even things like Canadian pride. Links of Interest: Colleen Anderson's Website/Blog Nov 2, 2025 Episode of The Creative Penn Podcast (Creating While Caring with Donn King) Manuscript Report (Mark's affiliate link - use MARK10 to save 10%) Buy Mark a Coffee Patreon for Stark Reflections Mark's YouTube channel ElevenLabs (AI Voice Generation - Affiliate link) Mark's Stark Reflections on Writing & Publishing Newsletter (Signup) An Author's Guide to Working With Bookstores and Libraries The Relaxed Author Buy eBook Direct Buy Audiobook Direct Publishing Pitfalls for Authors An Author's Guide to Working with Libraries & Bookstores Wide for the Win Mark's Canadian Werewolf Books This Time Around (Short Story) A Canadian Werewolf in New York Stowe Away (Novella) Fear and Longing in Los Angeles Fright Nights, Big City Lover's Moon Hex and the City Only Monsters in the Building Once Bitten (Novella) The Canadian Mounted: A Trivia Guide to Planes, Trains and Automobiles Yippee Ki-Yay Motherf*cker: A Trivia Guide to Die Hard Merry Christmas! Shitter Was Full!: A Trivia Guide to National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation I Think It's A Sign That The Pun Also Rises   Colleen Anderson has been widely published across eight countries, with works appearing in publications such as Weird Tales, Cemetery Dance, Amazing, and Shadow Atlas. Rhysling Award winner for "Machine (r)Evolution" and a two-time winner of the SFPA's dwarf poetry contest, she has been nominated for Pushcart, Elgin, Rhysling, and Dwarf Stars Awards. She is a Canada Council, BC Arts Council and Ladies of Horror Fiction grant recipient. Her poetry collections include The Lore of Inscrutable Dreams, I Dreamed a World, Weird Worlds, and Vellum Leaves and Lettered Skins as well as two fiction collections A Body of Work and Embers Amongst the Fallen. Colleen freelances as an editor, and has served on the SFPA executive, as well as British Fantasy Award and Stoker juries. She lives in Vancouver, BC where she searches for mermaids.   The introductory, end, and bumper music for this podcast ("Laser Groove") was composed and produced by Kevin MacLeod of www.incompetech.com and is Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

“Fiction is a wonderful arena for dealing with some really complex topics and some difficult issues in a safe space.” - Alex KingsleyIn the latest How To Write the Future podcast episode titled, “Alex Kingsley: Writing Speculative Futures,” host Beth Barany chats with Alex Kingsley, a science fiction writer, playwright, game designer, and more exciting roles that inform their fiction writing.Together they talk about AI cognition, the importance of human intelligence in creating for the future, how speculative fiction can help readers cope with complex issues, and why compassion matters in sci-fi.ABOUT ALEX KINGSLEYAlex Kingsley (they/them) is a writer, comedian, game designer, and playwright. They are a co-founder of the new media company Strong Branch Productions. They are the author of Empress of Dust, Relic of Haven and The Strange Garden and Other Weird Tales, as well as short fiction appearing in Translunar Travelers Lounge, Radon Journal, Sci-Fi Lampoon, and more. Alex's sci-fi plays have been produced in LA, Philadelphia, and Chicago. Alex's SFF-related non-fiction has appeared in Interstellar Flight Magazine and Ancillary Review of Books. Their games can be downloaded pay-what-you-will at alexyquest.itch.io. Alex is currently a graduate student studying speculative fiction at the University of Illinois, Chicago.Website: http://alexkingsley.orgInstagram https://www.instagram.com/hitchhikersguidetothealexyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-kingsley-56342a139/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@alexyquestBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/alexyquest.bsky.socialNewsletter: Newsletter: https://alexkingsley.substack.comSHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2026 BETH BARANYQuestions? Comments? Send us a text!Support the show---♦︎ JOIN THE MEMBERSHIP: For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what?Join the Edit the Future: Sci‑Fi/Fantasy Revision Lab. Get premium weekly lessons and a monthly Q&A on Zoom. Subscribe: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2012061/subscribe♥︎ FREE: Sign up here for the Edit Your Novel ChecklistHelps writers revise faster with less overwhelm by focusing first on diagnosis, not fixing. Get yours at http://edityournovelchecklist.com.♡ SHOP: Sci‑Fi & Fantasy 24 Writing Prompts: https://ko-fi.com/s/4ac9160a74❤️ Want to be interviewed on the podcast? => Email us!CONNECT WITH BETHvia emailvia LinkedInCREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

The Blasters & Blades PodcastForget the “Damsel in Distress”—we're talking about the women who bring the distress. From Ellen Ripley and Sarah Connor to Molly Weasley and beyond, motherhood in speculative fiction is often the ultimate catalyst for heroism. Join our panel as we celebrate the mothers who fight, lead, and sacrifice across worlds of magic and machines. We're discussing why “Motherhood as a Superpower” is one of the most compelling tropes in the genre and which fictional moms we'd want in our corner when the monsters come knocking. This was a fun interview, so check out this episode. Lend us your eyes and ears, you won't be sorry!! Co-Hosts: JR Handley (Author) (Grunt)Nick Garber (Comic Book Artist) (Super Grunt)Madam Stabby Stab (Uber Fan) (Horror Nerd)Jana S Brown (Author) (Chief Shenanigator)We work for free, so if you wanna throw a few pennies our way there is a linked Buy Me A Coffee site where you can do so. Just mention the podcast in the comments when you donate, and I'll keep the sacred bean water boiling!Support the Show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/AuthorJRHandley Our LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/blastersandbladespodcast Today's SponsorDeath's Knight by Matthew T Summers & Jena Rey: https://www.amazon.com/Deaths-Knight-War-Lich-Jena/dp/1952415047Follow Charli Cox on social mediaCharli's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Charli-Cox/author/B0C8BX33XL Charli's Website: https://www.charlicox.net/ Charli's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CharliCoxAuthor/ Charli's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@charlicoxwrites Charli's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@charlicox1121?lang=enFollow Chloe Garner on social mediaChloe's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Chloe-Garner/e/B00MD4GGLS/ Chloe's Website: https://blenderfiction.wordpress.com/ Chloe's Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/435117423514398 Chloe's Bookstore: https://blenderfiction.wordpress.com/verida-signed-copies/ Chloe's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/ChloeGarner Follow Jana S Brown on social mediaJana's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jana-S.-Brown/author/B015VJV7JW Jana's Website: www.opalkingdompress.com Jana's Facebook: www.facebook.com/janasbrownwrites Jana's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janasbrownwrites/ Jana's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/opalkingdompress Follow Jena Rey on social mediaJena's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jena-Rey/author/B08XSCHXYXFollow JR Handley on social mediaJR's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/J.-R.-Handley/author/B01N0SEX3AJR's Website: https://jrhandley.com/JR's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sgt.jr.handleyJR's Substack: https://jrhandley.substack.com/ JR's Tip Jar: https://buymeacoffee.com/authorjrhandleyFollow Melissa McShane on social mediaMelissa's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Melissa-McShane/author/B00TON8E1QMelissa's Website: www.melissamcshanewrites.comMelissa's Facebook: www.facebook.com/melissamcshanewritesMelissa's Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mcshaneminionsMelissa's Discord: https://discord.gg/wKXUe89Kh7#scifishenanigans #scifishenaniganspodcast #bbp #blastersandblades #blastersandbladespodcast #podcast #scifipodcast #fantasypodcast #scifi #fantasy #books #rpg #comics #fandom #literature #comedy #veteran #army #armyranger #ranger #scififan #redshirts #scifiworld #sciencefiction #scifidaily #scificoncept #podcastersofinstagram #scificons #podcastlife #podcastsofinstagram #scifibooks #awardwinningscifi #newepisode #podcastersofinstagram #podcastaddict #podcast #scifigeek #scifibook #sfv #scifivisionaries #firesidechat #chat #panel #fireside #religionquestion #coffee #tea #coffeeortea #CoffeeBrandCoffee #JRHandley #NickGarber #MadamStabby #JanaSBrown #JenaRey #OpalKingdomPress #MothersDay #MomsDay #MumsDay #BadAssedMom #BadAssedMomsOfSpecFic #BadAssedMomsOfSpeculativeFiction #CharliCox #ChloeGarner #MelissaMcShane #Warmaster #Warhamster #WarMistress

What if one story could transcend the boundaries of space, time, dimensions—and even multiple universes? In this mind-expanding and imaginative episode, Dakota Frandsen presents A Story that Spans Space, Time, Dimensions and Multi-Universes — Hearing is Believing, inviting listeners into a narrative where reality is no longer confined to a single plane of existence. Drawing from creative storytelling and speculative ideas, Dakota explores a universe where parallel dimensions, alternate timelines, and interconnected realities collide. Through vivid description and immersive concepts, he challenges listeners to imagine what lies beyond our current understanding of the cosmos. This episode invites you to stretch your perception. What if multiple versions of reality exist simultaneously? How would time behave across different dimensions? And what happens when a story bridges them all into one experience? Join us for a captivating and otherworldly conversation that pushes the limits of imagination—where science fiction meets possibility, and where hearing truly becomes believing.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-x-zone-radio-tv-show--1078348/support.Please note that all XZBN radio and/or television shows are Copyright © REL-MAR McConnell Meda Company, Niagara, Ontario, Canada – www.rel-mar.com. For more Episodes of this show and all shows produced, broadcasted and syndicated from REL-MAR McConell Media Company and The 'X' Zone Broadcast Network and the 'X' Zone TV Channell, visit www.xzbn.net. For programming, distribution, and syndication inquiries, email programming@xzbn.net.We are proud to announce the we have launched TWATNews.com, launched in August 2025.TWATNews.com is an independent online news platform dedicated to uncovering the truth about Donald Trump and his ongoing influence in politics, business, and society. Unlike mainstream outlets that often sanitize, soften, or ignore stories that challenge Trump and his allies, TWATNews digs deeper to deliver hard-hitting articles, investigative features, and sharp commentary that mainstream media won't touch.These are stories and articles that you will not read anywhere else.Our mission is simple: to expose corruption, lies, and authoritarian tendencies while giving voice to the perspectives and evidence that are often marginalized or buried by corporate-controlled media

Dani Vee and Karen Comer chat about her new YA verse novel Once Upon Tomorrow. They chat about the complexity of writing three separate storylines across one hundred years, speculative fiction and the impact of AI on the human experience. Dani and Karen also explore feminism, the experience of women across the ages and how AI has been used to weaponise women. They also chat about the importance of verse novels and the writing process.

Shark Heart by Emily Habeck is a surreal love story about newlyweds Wren and Lewis, whose marriage is upended when Lewis is diagnosed with a rare condition that will slowly transform him into a great white shark. As they confront grief, change, and the limits of love, the novel uses magical realism to explore what it means to stay connected when life becomes unrecognizable.A nonprofit leader by day, Ashley spends her free time volunteering; chasing down Richmond's best hikes and restaurants with her friends, family, and pup; and adventuring across the globe. A recovering English major, she'll take any excuse to turn a good read into a great conversation.Ashley is the Executive Director of Communities in Schools Chesterfield, and on May 12th they are having their first ever Adult Spelling Bee Fundraiser! You should definitely come to raise some money for a great cause, also - I will be one of their “Celebrity Spellers” so come witness me failing horribly at spelling! Spelling bee tickets: https://cisofchesterfield.networkforgood.com/events/96878-cis-c-adult-spelling-bee-extravaganzaSearn more about CIS: www.cisofchesterfield.org Our drink this week is the Metamorphosis Cocktail, which I absolutely loved - it literally changes colors! Metamorphosis Cocktail Ingredients 2 oz gin1 oz butterfly pea tea (cooled)¾ oz fresh lemon juice½ oz Simple SyrupIceOptional flair:Edible glitter Black sugar or salt rimLemon twist or edible flowerDirections:Brew butterfly pea tea by steeping 1–2 tsp dried flowers in ½ cup hot water for 5–7 minutes; strain and cool.Fill a glass with ice and add 2 oz gin + 1 oz cooled butterfly pea tea.Slowly pour in ¾ oz fresh lemon juice and watch the color change from blue to purple.Stir in ½ oz simple syrup to taste, then garnish if desired.In This EpisodeShadowlands Film Quote (I could not remember who to attribute this to while we were recording)Speculative Fiction

This week on the KPL podcast we have author Joan F. Smith and we discuss, Your Soulmail is Attached. A speculative fiction novel about how the world would change after every adult is told the name of their soulmate.  Marriages break apart in some cases and in other situations relationships are stronger. Dating, social media, and even religion are changed. Listen to learn more.Author readsThis Story Might Save Your Life by Tiffany Crum

Stories featured in this episode:Wired Hearts by Eric Fomley - https://ericfomleyblog.wordpress.com/ -music by Phog Masheeen - https://phogmasheeen.com/ -    read by Jenna Hanchey -The Drive by Marie Vibbert - https://www.marievibbert.com/ -music by TSG - https://tsgmusic.bandcamp.com/  -read by Jean-Paul Garnier -theme music by Dain Luscombe -Simultaneous Times is a monthly science fiction podcast produced by Space Cowboy Books in Joshua Tree, CA. -https://www.spacecowboybooks.com -https://ko-fi.com/spacecowboybooks7054

The Blasters & Blades PodcastAre you up for a good trauma dump? Then sidle up to the bar and listen to us wax poetic, or at least we attempt it! Today we're diving deep into the fiction that shaped us. Sometimes, we just talk about the intergenerational trauma, which we insist is the fiction that we pass on! This was a fun interview, so check out this episode. Lend us your eyes and ears, you won't be sorry!!Co-Hosts:JR Handley (Author) (Grunt)Jana S Brown (Author) (Chief Shenanigator)We work for free, so if you wanna throw a few pennies our way there is a linked Buy Me A Coffee site where you can do so. Just mention the podcast in the comments when you donate, and I'll keep the sacred bean water boiling!Support the Show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/AuthorJRHandleyOur LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/blastersandbladespodcastToday's SponsorThe Tentacles and Tides Anthology by Opal Kingdom Press: https://a.co/d/01DiWBQm Coffee Brand Coffee AffiliateSupport the Show: https://coffeebrandcoffee.com/?ref=y4GWASiVorJZDb10% Discount Code: PodcastGruntsFollow Bill McUisdean (Wylder396) on social mediaBill's Website: https://zorne.substack.com/Bill's Substack: https://substack.com/@wylder396Bill's Twitter: https://x.com/Wylder396Follow Jana S Brown on social mediaJana's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jana-S.-Brown/author/B015VJV7JWJana's Website: www.opalkingdompress.comJana's Facebook: www.facebook.com/janasbrownwritesJana's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/opalkingdompressFollow Jena Rey on social mediaJena's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jena-Rey/author/B08XSCHXYXFollow Jesse James Fain on social mediaJesse's Amazon: http://amazon.com/author/jessejamesfainJesse's Website: https://outlawauthor.com/Jesse's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JesseJamesFainJesse's Substack: https://jessejamesfain.substack.com/Follow Matthew C. Lucas on social mediaMatthew's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B094SZS7J9Matthew's Website: https://matthewclucas.com/Matthew's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matthew.c.lucas.2025/Matthew's Substack: https://substack.com/@matthewlucas98Follow Melissa McShane on social mediaMelissa's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Melissa-McShane/author/B00TON8E1QMelissa's Website: www.melissamcshanewrites.comMelissa's Facebook: www.facebook.com/melissamcshanewritesMelissa's Discord: https://discord.gg/wKXUe89Kh7#scifishenanigans #scifishenaniganspodcast #bbp #blastersandblades #blastersandbladespodcast #podcast #scifipodcast #fantasypodcast #scifi #fantasy #books #rpg #comics #fandom #literature #comedy #veteran #army #armyranger #ranger #scififan #redshirts #scifiworld #sciencefiction #scifidaily #scificoncept #podcastersofinstagram #scificons #podcastlife #podcastsofinstagram #scifibooks #awardwinningscifi #newepisode #podcastersofinstagram #podcastaddict #podcast #scifigeek #scifibook #sfv #scifivisionaries #firesidechat #chat #panel #fireside #religionquestion #coffee #tea #coffeeortea #CoffeeBrandCoffee #JRHandley #NickGarber #MadamStabby #JanaSBrown #JenaRey #OpalKingdomPress #BillMcUisdean #Wylder396 #JesseJamesFain #OutlawAuthor #MatthewCLucas #MatthewLucas #MattLucas #MelissaMcShane #Warmaster #Warmistress #IntergenerationalTrauma #Dinotopia #WhereTheRedFernGrows #OldYeller #TheNeverendingStory #Ajax #BridgeToTerabithia #KingArthur #Firefly #Walsh #LandBeforeTime #Bambi #LeMortToArthur #CharlottesWebb #WatershipDown #LittleRedRidingHood #OptimusPrime #Transformers #TheSandlot #StandByMe #The39Clues #TheGivingTree #ShelSilverstein #TheVelveteenRabbit #MargeryWilliams #ALightInTheAttic #TheSwordOfTruth #WizardsFirstRule #DavidEddings #TheBelgariad #DragonRidersOfPern #TheMalloreon #TheLoneWolfSeries #BrandonMull #RickRiordan #TheBlackStallion #BlackBeauty #TheHungerGames #Skellig #DavidAlmond #LostInSpace #Excalibur #TheLastOfTheMohicans #TheCountOfMonteCristo #HarryPotter #JKRowling #TheNameOfTheRose #Legend

The Blasters & Blades PodcastStep into the armory of our imagination! We're diving deep into the history and future of fictional defense, from the ground tanks of yesteryear to the orbital drop tanks of the far future. Our panelists debated realism vs. aesthetics, topics such as the transition from human loaders to AI-driven capabilities, and what it really feels like to be a “walking tank” in the heat of battle. Suit up… it's going to be a heavy-hitting discussion. But this was also a fun interview, so check out this episode. Lend us your eyes and ears, you won't be sorry!! Co-Hosts: JR Handley (Author) (Grunt)Nick Garber (Comic Book Artist) (Super Grunt)We work for free, so if you wanna throw a few pennies our way there is a linked Buy Me A Coffee site where you can do so. Just mention the podcast in the comments when you donate, and I'll keep the sacred bean water boiling!Support the Show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/AuthorJRHandley Our LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/blastersandbladespodcast Today's SponsorClash of Steel Anthology by Bayonet Books: https://a.co/d/ffa5tYR Coffee Brand Coffee Affiliate Support the Show: https://coffeebrandcoffee.com/?ref=y4GWASiVorJZDb 10% Discount Code: PodcastGrunts Follow Michael LaVoice on social mediaMichael's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/michaellavoice Michael's Website: https://michaellavoice.com/ Michael's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThatMichaelLaVoice Michael's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LaVoiceinyourhead Michael's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lavoice.in.your.h Michael's Substack: https://michaellavoice.substack.com/ Michael's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/michaellavoice Follow Nick Garber (Nicholas Garber) on social mediaNick's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Nicholas-Garber/author/B0FB55ZBM7 Nick's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nickgarberart Nick's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickgarberart/ Nick's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nickgarberdesigns/videos Nick's Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/profile/creators?u=474746&vanity=profile Nick's BuyMeCoffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/nickgarberart Nick's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/nickgarberdesigns Follow Rick Partlow on social mediaRick's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Rick-Partlow/author/B00B1GNL4E Rick's Simon & Schuster: https://www.simonandschuster.com/authors/Rick-Partlow/238279796 Rick's Website: https://rickpartlow.com/ Rick's Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/DutyHonorPlanet/ Rick's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/partlowrick/ Rick's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rickpartlow534 Rick's Podcast: http://www.youtube.com/@milsfpod Follow Terry Mixon on social mediaTerry's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Terry-Mixon/e/B00J15TJFM Terry's Website: http://www.terrymixon.com/ Terry's Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TerryLMixon Terry's Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TerryMixon DRS Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/drspodcast/ DRS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DRSPodcast/featured DRS Website: http://deadrobotssociety.com/ DRS Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/drspodcast/overview #scifishenanigans #scifishenaniganspodcast #bbp #blastersandblades #blastersandbladespodcast #podcast #scifipodcast #fantasypodcast #scifi #fantasy #books #rpg #comics #fandom #literature #comedy #veteran #army #armyranger #ranger #scififan #redshirts #scifiworld #sciencefiction #scifidaily #scificoncept #podcastersofinstagram #scificons #podcastlife #podcastsofinstagram #scifibooks #awardwinningscifi #newepisode #podcastersofinstagram #podcastaddict #podcast #scifigeek #scifibook #sfv #scifivisionaries #firesidechat #chat #panel #fireside #religionquestion #coffee #tea #coffeeortea #CoffeeBrandCoffee #JRHandley #NickGarber #MadamStabby #JanaSBrown #JenaRey #OpalKingdomPress #TerryMixon #LeifDolan #RickPartlow #MichaelLaVoice #RichardFox #ArmorWars #ArmsAndArmorInSpeculativeFiction

The Blasters & Blades PodcastStep into the armory of our imagination! We're diving deep into the history and future of fictional defense, from the ground tanks of yesteryear to the orbital drop tanks of the far future. Our panelists debated realism vs. aesthetics, topics such as the transition from human loaders to AI-driven capabilities, and what it really feels like to be a “walking tank” in the heat of battle. Suit up… it's going to be a heavy-hitting discussion. But this was also a fun interview, so check out this episode. Lend us your eyes and ears, you won't be sorry!!Join us for a fun show! We're just a couple of nerdy Army veterans geeking out on things that go "abracadabra," "pew," "zoom," "boop-beep" and rhyme with Science Fiction & Fantasy.Co-Hosts:JR Handley (Author) (Grunt)Nick Garber (Comic Book Artist) (Super Grunt)Madam Stabby Stab (Uber Fan) (Horror Nerd)Jana S Brown (Author) (Chief Shenanigator)We work for free, so if you wanna throw a few pennies our way there is a linked Buy Me A Coffee site where you can do so. Just mention the podcast in the comments when you donate, and I'll keep the sacred bean water boiling!Support the show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/AuthorJRHandleyOur LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/blastersandbladespodcastToday's SponsorClash of Steel Anthology by Bayonet Books: https://a.co/d/ffa5tYRCoffee Brand Coffee AffiliateSupport the Show: https://coffeebrandcoffee.com/?ref=y4GWASiVorJZDb10% Discount Code: PodcastGruntsFollow Michael LaVoice on social mediaMichael's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/michaellavoiceMichael's Website: https://michaellavoice.com/Michael's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThatMichaelLaVoiceMichael's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LaVoiceinyourheadMichael's Substack: https://michaellavoice.substack.com/Michael's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/michaellavoiceFollow Nick Garber (Nicholas Garber) on social mediaNick's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Nicholas-Garber/author/B0FB55ZBM7Nick's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nickgarberartNick's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickgarberart/Nick's Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/profile/creators?u=474746&vanity=profileNick's BuyMeCoffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/nickgarberartNick's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/nickgarberdesignsFollow Rick Partlow on social mediaRick's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Rick-Partlow/author/B00B1GNL4ERick's Simon & Schuster: https://www.simonandschuster.com/authors/Rick-Partlow/238279796Rick's Website: https://rickpartlow.com/Rick's Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/DutyHonorPlanet/Rick's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rickpartlow534Rick's Podcast: http://www.youtube.com/@milsfpodFollow Terry Mixon on social mediaTerry's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Terry-Mixon/e/B00J15TJFMTerry's Website: http://www.terrymixon.com/Terry's Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TerryLMixonTerry's Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TerryMixonDRS Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/drspodcast/DRS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DRSPodcast/featuredDRS Website: http://deadrobotssociety.com/DRS Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/drspodcast/overview#scifishenanigans #scifishenaniganspodcast #bbp #blastersandblades #blastersandbladespodcast #podcast #scifipodcast #fantasypodcast #scifi #fantasy #books #rpg #comics #fandom #literature #comedy #veteran #army #armyranger #ranger #scififan #redshirts #scifiworld #sciencefiction #scifidaily #scificoncept #podcastersofinstagram #scificons #podcastlife #podcastsofinstagram #scifibooks #awardwinningscifi #newepisode #podcastersofinstagram #podcastaddict #podcast #scifigeek #scifibook #sfv #scifivisionaries #firesidechat #chat #panel #fireside #religionquestion #coffee #tea #coffeeortea #CoffeeBrandCoffee #JRHandley #NickGarber #MadamStabby #JanaSBrown #JenaRey #OpalKingdomPress #TerryMixon #LeifDolan #RickPartlow #MichaelLaVoice #RichardFox #ArmorWars #ArmsAndArmorInSpeculativeFiction

The Blasters & Blades PodcastStep into the armory of our imagination! We're diving deep into the history and future of fictional defense, from the ground tanks of yesteryear to the orbital drop tanks of the far future. Our panelists debated realism vs. aesthetics, topics such as the transition from human loaders to AI-driven capabilities, and what it really feels like to be a “walking tank” in the heat of battle. Suit up… it's going to be a heavy-hitting discussion. But this was also a fun interview, so check out this episode. Lend us your eyes and ears, you won't be sorry!! Co-Hosts: JR Handley (Author) (Grunt)Nick Garber (Comic Book Artist) (Super Grunt)We work for free, so if you wanna throw a few pennies our way there is a linked Buy Me A Coffee site where you can do so. Just mention the podcast in the comments when you donate, and I'll keep the sacred bean water boiling!Support the Show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/AuthorJRHandley Our LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/blastersandbladespodcast Today's SponsorClash of Steel Anthology by Bayonet Books: https://a.co/d/ffa5tYR Coffee Brand Coffee Affiliate Support the Show: https://coffeebrandcoffee.com/?ref=y4GWASiVorJZDb 10% Discount Code: PodcastGrunts Follow Michael LaVoice on social mediaMichael's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/michaellavoice Michael's Website: https://michaellavoice.com/ Michael's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThatMichaelLaVoice Michael's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LaVoiceinyourhead Michael's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lavoice.in.your.h Michael's Substack: https://michaellavoice.substack.com/ Michael's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/michaellavoice Follow Nick Garber (Nicholas Garber) on social mediaNick's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Nicholas-Garber/author/B0FB55ZBM7 Nick's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nickgarberart Nick's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickgarberart/ Nick's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nickgarberdesigns/videos Nick's Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/profile/creators?u=474746&vanity=profile Nick's BuyMeCoffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/nickgarberart Nick's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/nickgarberdesigns Follow Rick Partlow on social mediaRick's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Rick-Partlow/author/B00B1GNL4E Rick's Simon & Schuster: https://www.simonandschuster.com/authors/Rick-Partlow/238279796 Rick's Website: https://rickpartlow.com/ Rick's Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/DutyHonorPlanet/ Rick's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/partlowrick/ Rick's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rickpartlow534 Rick's Podcast: http://www.youtube.com/@milsfpod Follow Terry Mixon on social mediaTerry's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Terry-Mixon/e/B00J15TJFM Terry's Website: http://www.terrymixon.com/ Terry's Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TerryLMixon Terry's Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TerryMixon DRS Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/drspodcast/ DRS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DRSPodcast/featured DRS Website: http://deadrobotssociety.com/ DRS Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/drspodcast/overview #scifishenanigans #scifishenaniganspodcast #bbp #blastersandblades #blastersandbladespodcast #podcast #scifipodcast #fantasypodcast #scifi #fantasy #books #rpg #comics #fandom #literature #comedy #veteran #army #armyranger #ranger #scififan #redshirts #scifiworld #sciencefiction #scifidaily #scificoncept #podcastersofinstagram #scificons #podcastlife #podcastsofinstagram #scifibooks #awardwinningscifi #newepisode #podcastersofinstagram #podcastaddict #podcast #scifigeek #scifibook #sfv #scifivisionaries #firesidechat #chat #panel #fireside #religionquestion #coffee #tea #coffeeortea #CoffeeBrandCoffee #JRHandley #NickGarber #MadamStabby #JanaSBrown #JenaRey #OpalKingdomPress #TerryMixon #LeifDolan #RickPartlow #MichaelLaVoice #RichardFox #ArmorWars #ArmsAndArmorInSpeculativeFiction

In this episode, I talk with Justin C. Key about his speculative novel The Hospital at the End of the World.  Justin shares how his medical training and fascination with AI, consciousness, and ethics informed the novel's evolution from a short story into a full-length work. We dive into the tension between technological advancement and human connection, particularly in medicine, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of empathy and lived experience. Justin also discusses worldbuilding choices, balancing speculative ideas with grounded realism, and both the promise and risks of AI in healthcare and learning. Listen to hear about: How Justin's writing journey evolved naturally from a deep love of reading into a disciplined, intuitive creative practice   How his “pantser” approach prioritizes discovery, with structure and outlines often emerging during the editing phase   How The Hospital at the End of the World began as a short story and expanded over years alongside his medical education   The way the novel explores AI in healthcare, balancing its powerful analytical potential with the risks of over-reliance and loss of human judgment   How the novel explores the irreplaceable role of human connection, arguing that empathy and presence are just as critical as data in medicine Follow Justin C. Key here and grab a copy of The Hospital at the End of the World here Check Out Author Social Media PackagesCheck out the Bookwild Community on PatreonCheck Out My Stories Are My Religion SubstackGet Bookwild MerchFollow @imbookwild on InstagramOther Co-hosts On Instagram:Gare Billings @gareindeedreadsSteph Lauer @books.in.badgerlandHalley Sutton @halleysutton25Brian Watson @readingwithbrianMacKenzie Green @missusa2mba

Lorraine Wilson writes speculative fiction, which she says is "writing in between folklore and the wilderness." Show notes: Lorraine Wilson We Are All Ghosts In The Forest The Salt Oracle Christopher Caldwell: Call and Response Learn more about Scrivener, and check out the ebook Take Control of Scrivener. If you like the podcast, please follow it on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Leave a rating or review, and tell your friends. And check out past episodes of Write Now with Scrivener.

The Blasters & Blades PodcastFairy tales you say? Let's do this! Today we dive deep into the thrilling journey of re-imagining classic fairy tales through the lens of speculative fiction. From dark fantasy retellings, genre-bending sci-fi mashups, and everything in between… we got you covered. We explored how authors are taking timeless stories of wonder, caution, and transformation and supercharging them with magic systems, advanced technology, moral ambiguity, and cosmic stakes. This was a fun interview, so check out this episode. Lend us your eyes and ears, you won't be sorry!! Co-Hosts: JR Handley (Author) (Grunt)Nick Garber (Comic Book Artist) (Super Grunt)Madam Stabby Stab (Uber Fan) (Horror Nerd)Jana S Brown (Author) (Chief Shenanigator)We work for free, so if you wanna throw a few pennies our way there is a linked Buy Me A Coffee site where you can do so. Just mention the podcast in the comments when you donate, and I'll keep the sacred bean water boiling!Support the Show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/AuthorJRHandley Our LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/blastersandbladespodcast Today's SponsorWarts And All by Melissa McShane: https://a.co/d/03573AUC Coffee Brand Coffee Affiliate Support the Show: https://coffeebrandcoffee.com/?ref=y4GWASiVorJZDb Discount Code: PodcastGrunts Coupon Code Gets you 10% off Follow Chloe Garner on social mediaChloe's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Chloe-Garner/e/B00MD4GGLS/ Chloe's Website: https://blenderfiction.wordpress.com/ Chloe's Twitter: https://twitter.com/BlenderFiction Chloe's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chloe.garner.79 Chloe's Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/435117423514398 Chloe's Bookstore: https://blenderfiction.wordpress.com/verida-signed-copies/ Chloe's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/ChloeGarner Follow Jana S Brown on social mediaJana's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jana-S.-Brown/author/B015VJV7JW Jana's Website: www.opalkingdompress.com Jana's Twitter: https://twitter.com/janastocks Jana's Facebook: www.facebook.com/janasbrownwrites Jana's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janasbrownwrites/ Jana's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/opalkingdompress Follow Jena Rey on social mediaJena's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jena-Rey/author/B08XSCHXYX Jena's Website: www.opalkingdompress.com Jena's Facebook: www.facebook.com/jenareyFollow Melissa McShane on social mediaMelissa's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Melissa-McShane/author/B00TON8E1Q Melissa's Website: www.melissamcshanewrites.com Melissa's Twitter: www.twitter.com/melissamcshanewrites Melissa's Facebook: www.facebook.com/melissamcshanewrites Melissa's Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mcshaneminions Melissa's Discord: https://discord.gg/wKXUe89Kh7 Melissa's Store: http://www.nightharborpress.com/ What is a fairy tale? https://fairytales.app/what-is-a-fairy-tale/ What is a fairy tale? https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fairy_tale A list of fairy tales? https://www.fairytales.info/list/ #scifishenanigans #scifishenaniganspodcast #bbp #blastersandblades #blastersandbladespodcast #podcast #scifipodcast #fantasypodcast #scifi #fantasy #books #rpg #comics #fandom #literature #comedy #veteran #army #armyranger #ranger #scififan #redshirts #scifiworld #sciencefiction #scifidaily #scificoncept #podcastersofinstagram #scificons #podcastlife #podcastsofinstagram #scifibooks #awardwinningscifi #newepisode #podcastersofinstagram #podcastaddict #podcast #scifigeek #scifibook #sfv #scifivisionaries #firesidechat #chat #panel #fireside #religionquestion #coffee #tea #coffeeortea #CoffeeBrandCoffee #JRHandley #NickGarber #MadamStabby #JanaSBrown #JenaRey #OpalKingdomPress #ChloeGarner #MelissaMcShane #Warmaster #WarHamster #Reimagining #FairyTales #SpeculativeFiction #folklore #Fable #BrothersGrimm #CharlesPerrault #HansChristianAndersen #JosephJacobs #OscarWilde #FolkTales #LegendTales #BibleStories #PassionPlays #Cinder

Black Easter by: James Blish The Day After Judgment by: James Blish Into the Storm by: Larry Correia A Prisoner's Cinema by: Justin Lee

Support the show:https://www.paypal.me/Truelifepodcast?locale.x=en_USOne on One Video Call W/George https://tidycal.com/georgepmonty/60-minute-meetingAt 3 a.m., Bruce pushes his cart through the casino floor in hypnotic rhythm — hot can, cold can, open, close, move — when a simple string of warm burgundy prayer beads on the floor cracks reality wide open.One touch and he's no longer in the neon-drenched sprawl. He's living someone else's life in vivid, overlapping timelines: Christmas laughter and homemade tortillas, a sacred gift from an elder, a wedding, a funeral, red bills, and crushing loss.In the shadow of machine 41's despair, a quiet miracle erupts. The sacred doesn't ask permission — it simply shows up, even here, where the house always comes first.Consciousness is not linear.We are not separate.Sometimes the ocean remembers it's the ocean. One on One Video call W/George https://tidycal.com/georgepmonty/60-minute-meetingSupport the show:https://www.paypal.me/Truelifepodcast?locale.x=en_US

Support the show:https://www.paypal.me/Truelifepodcast?locale.x=en_USOne on One Video Call W/George https://tidycal.com/georgepmonty/60-minute-meetingAt 1 a.m., Bruce clocks in for his first shift in the soft count room — the hidden chamber where the casino's raw money is weighed, counted, and claimed by the house. What begins as a mundane night shift in a sterile beehive of steel tables and humming machines slowly fractures into something far stranger.As rivers of cash flow through the counting machines, Bruce starts to perceive the psychic residue clinging to every bill: weddings, divorces, dreams, and despair compressed into cotton and ink. The house isn't just counting money. It's counting souls.Welcome to the Machine.The house always comes first. One on One Video call W/George https://tidycal.com/georgepmonty/60-minute-meetingSupport the show:https://www.paypal.me/Truelifepodcast?locale.x=en_US

This week, I talk with Andrea M. Butler about her debut speculative fiction Mother. We dive into a wide range of topics, including: The origin of the novel's idea Dreams and spiritual communication Energy work and spirituality Speculative fiction grounded in reality The “predictive” nature of fiction Capitalism, wealth inequality, and food insecurity Religion and evangelical culture Community as resistance Divine feminine energy Hope through storytelling   Mother by Andrea M. Butler Synopsis Having gained control of the world's food supply, a single corporation, SunRay, holds the fate of humanity in its hands. When the government passed the HOME Act and sent millions of immigrants away, it threw the nation into an unprecedented economic crisis. Set in the near future amidst the backdrop of an increasingly volatile climate, Matt and Evie Fisher are struggling to survive. In order to find a way to save their two daughters, Matt and Evie must wrestle with their faith, their past, and a mysterious illness affecting much of the population. When a series of otherworldly dreams sets Evie on a path to find a mystical portal, and Matt finds himself in possession of information that could topple SunRay and the political network behind it, Evie realizes she is being offered a choice that could not only save her daughters, but could alter the fate of humanity forever.   Check Out Author Social Media PackagesCheck out the Bookwild Community on PatreonCheck Out My Stories Are My Religion SubstackGet Bookwild MerchFollow @imbookwild on InstagramOther Co-hosts On Instagram:Gare Billings @gareindeedreadsSteph Lauer @books.in.badgerlandHalley Sutton @halleysutton25Brian Watson @readingwithbrianMacKenzie Green @missusa2mba

From the pages of Utopia Science Fiction Magazine -https://www.utopiasciencefiction.com/ -Stories featured in this episode:Water Memory by Tim Fahlstedt - https://timfahlstedt.com/ -music by Doctor Auxiliary - https://doctorauxiliary.bandcamp.com -read by Jenna Hanchey -Gravitational Tug by Anne Wilkins - https://www.annewilkinsauthor.com/ -music by Phog Masheeen - https://phogmasheeen.com/ -    read by Jean-Paul Garnier -theme music by Dain Luscombe -Simultaneous Times is a monthly science fiction podcast produced by Space Cowboy Books in Joshua Tree, CA. -https://www.spacecowboybooks.com -https://ko-fi.com/spacecowboybooks7054

Author and psychiatrist Justin C. Key returns to Caught on the Mike for a powerful, in-depth conversation surrounding his new novel The Hospital at the End of the World. In this episode, we dive into AI in healthcare, the dangers of automation, the human cost of data-driven medicine, and how real-world medical training inspired one of the most timely speculative fiction novels of the year. Justin shares insight from his work as a practicing psychiatrist, the evolution from short fiction to novel writing, and why human connection in medicine can never be replaced by technology. We also talk Afrofuturism, dystopian fiction, medical ethics, and the future of storytelling in the age of AI.

Sam Mills is an innovative and wildly creative writer, who has always wanted to publish books. She's written non-fiction books, 'Uneven', 'The Fragments of my Father', and others, also crossover, genre-bending novels like 'Blackout', and 'The Quiddity of Will Self'. She's written for The Guardian, The Independent, the New Humanist and more, along with running 'Dodo Ink', a small indie press that publishes daring and difficult literary fiction.Her new novel is 'The Watermark'. Inspired by 'Inception', it tells the story of Rachel and Jaime, who become trapped by Augustus Fate, a once-lauded novelist, in his latest creation. They must find their way back home through a labyrinthine network of novels, flitting from a harsh Russian Winter, to Victorian Oxford, from a utopian metropolis to an AI-dominated future.We discuss why she likes the romance of being a writer, and that helps her deal with the instability of it. Also, you can hear how she creeps close to the line of burnout, yet knows exactly when to pull back. Sam shares pen opinions, and how she's developed the cafe-writer's sense of when to leave.Get a copy of the book at uk.bookshop.org/shop/writersroutineThis week's episode is sponsored by the 'Quick Books Reviews Podcast', take a listen wherever you get your shows.Support 'Writer's Routine' -patreon.com/writersroutineko-fi.com/writersroutineSubscribe to the newsletter - writersroutine.substack.com@writerspodwritersroutine.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In his latest novel, Ian McEwan imagines a future world after a century's worth of disasters. The good news in “What We Can Know” is that humanity still exists, which McEwan calls “nuanced optimism.” He and David Remnick discuss the tradition of the big-themed social novel, which has gone out of literary fashion—“rather too many novels,” McEwan theorizes, hide “their poor prose behind a character.” But is the realist novel, Remnick wonders, “up to the job” of describing today's digital life? It remains “our best instrument of understanding who we are, of representing the flow of thought and feeling, and of representing the fine print of what happens between individuals,” McEwan responds. “We have not yet found a compelling replacement.” And yet he does not care to moralize: “the pursuit has also got to be of pleasure.” McEwan spoke with David Remnick at a public event organized by the 92nd Street Y in New York.  New episodes of The New Yorker Radio Hour drop every Tuesday and Friday. Join host David Remnick as he discusses the latest in politics, news, and current events in conversation with political leaders, newsmakers, innovators, New Yorker staff writers, authors, actors, and musicians.

In this episode, Breht speaks with Jacob Dallas-Main, co-host of Workers' Lit and author of They Called Her Rebel; a dazzling fusion of fantasy, class struggle, and storytelling set in a world of debtors' camps, collapsing empires, and revolutionary possibility. The two discuss how speculative fiction can illuminate political struggle, not merely as metaphor but as a call to break the boundary between audience and participant. They explore what makes a work of art revolutionary rather than consumable, the dangers of reactionary storytelling in popular culture, declining literacy in the U.S., the threats posed by AI, the need for socialist transformation, and why imagination is a vital force in times of despair. From Le Guin to Kim Stanley Robinson to Lee Mandelo, they trace a lineage of speculative art that refuses cynicism and insists on transformation -- both political and personal.  Check out our episode with Kim Stanely Robinson on his book "Ministry for the Future" HERE Subscribe to Workers Lit podcast on youtube HERE ---------------------------------------------------- Support Rev Left and get access to bonus episodes: www.patreon.com/revleftradio Make a one-time donation to Rev Left at BuyMeACoffee.com/revleftradio Follow, Subscribe, & Learn more about Rev Left Radio https://revleftradio.com/