Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs

Chris Dabbs
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Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs is a long-form interview podcast exploring the ideas behind books. Broadcast journalist Chris Dabbs speaks with novelists, historians, scientists, religious and commuunity leaders and non-fiction writers about their work, the research behind their books and the stories that shaped them. Each episode takes a thoughtful look at the creative process, big ideas and the questions authors wrestle with when writing about history, science, politics and the human experience. If you enjoy author interviews, literary conversations and discussions about books and ideas, Author Conversations offers a relaxed but insightful look behind the pages. Hosted by Chris Dabbs – broadcast journalist and podcast host. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

  1. 5d ago

    The Harvest Always Comes - Maree Deeley on Love, Life and Never Giving Up

    In this edition of Author Conversations, I meet author, artist, poet and therapist Maree Deeley to talk about her novel The Harvest Always Comes – and I discover that there's a very personal story behind that title. Maree grew up around farming and remembers her great-uncle facing difficult seasons with a simple conviction: “the harvest always comes”. It was a phrase that stayed with her, one she later passed on to her own family and which eventually became the title of her first novel. And in many ways, it fits the story perfectly. The Harvest Always Comes follows Felicity and Richard, a couple whose youthful love has gradually given way to distance and routine. Then Mario enters Felicity's world and something begins to change. I particularly enjoyed Maree's description of Mario during our conversation. She compares life to granite, with Mario becoming the mica or feldspar that suddenly makes it sparkle. For Felicity, his arrival is an awakening. But our conversation goes well beyond the novel. Maree has spent many years working as a psychotherapist, clinical hypnotherapist, life coach and healer, so I wanted to know how that understanding of human behaviour finds its way into her characters and relationships. We also talk about the very different ways readers respond to the same story. Maree tells me about an older reader for whom the novel brought back memories of Scotland and Aberdeen, while a much younger reader discovered something entirely different in it. And Maree's creativity certainly doesn't stop with writing. She painted the artwork for the book cover herself, she writes poetry and she's also a musician with nine albums already released and another on the way. Then there's her next novel, Eyes of Innocence. It's a very different and potentially much more challenging book. Maree tells me why she's tackling some difficult contemporary subjects, why she believes the story could eventually work on screen and why she has no intention of slowing down creatively. Perhaps that's what stayed with me most from this conversation. Maree talks about persistence, self-belief and continuing with something even when other people don't necessarily believe in what you're doing. Sometimes you have to keep planting the seeds. Because the harvest always comes. WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW: Watch on YouTube MORE ABOUT MAREE DEELEY: http://www.author-conversations.com/maree-deeley Author Conversations is presented by broadcast journalist Chris Dabbs, bringing authors and their stories into professionally produced, in-depth conversations. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support. Every book has a story beyond its pages. In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.  Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing. From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire. Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism, Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most. Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books. Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.

    The Harvest Always Comes - Maree Deeley on Love, Life and Never Giving Up

  2. Jul 29

    Treasure's Location | Joel A. Robinson on Publishing His Debut Novel at 92

    Can a lifelong dream begin at the age of 92? In this episode of Author Conversations, broadcast journalist Chris Dabbs speaks with Joel A. Robinson, a Korean War veteran whose debut novel, Treasure's Location, was published at the remarkable age of ninety-two. What begins as a discussion about an international historical thriller becomes a thoughtful conversation about perseverance, curiosity and the enduring power of storytelling. Joel reflects on the real-life treasure story that inspired his novel, the historical research behind it and why he believes it's never too late to write the book you've always wanted to tell. In this conversation Publishing a first novel at 92Life after the Korean WarThe real treasure story behind the novelHistory, mystery and writing fictionBuilding suspense and believable charactersAdvice for aspiring writersWhy it's never too late to follow a dreamFeatured Book Treasure's Location by Joel A. Robinson https://a.co/d/0iFDC14V www.author-conversations.com/joel-robinson Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support. Every book has a story beyond its pages. In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.  Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing. From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire. Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism, Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most. Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books. Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.

    Treasure's Location | Joel A. Robinson on Publishing His Debut Novel at 92

  3. Jul 25

    Hungry for More: Discipline, Faith and Endurance | JD Tremblay

    Canadian military veteran, ultra-endurance athlete and author JD Tremblay joins Chris Dabbs to explore discipline, resilience, faith and what it takes to keep moving when the body and mind are telling you to stop. What separates genuine discipline from temporary motivation? JD Tremblay joined the Canadian military at just 17 after growing up in northern Quebec, experiencing his parents’ divorce and being bullied during childhood. The structure he encountered in military life would help shape an extraordinary journey through firefighting, mentorship, entrepreneurship and some of the most demanding endurance challenges in the world. In this episode of Author Conversations, JD joins broadcast journalist Chris Dabbs to discuss the experiences behind his book, Hunger for More in Life: Conquer Mental Struggles, Defy Limitations, and Discover Purpose Through Epic Achievements. JD explains why the military does not simply give someone discipline. Instead, it provides structures and systems which can produce discipline when they are followed consistently. He also reflects on completing the EpicDeca: ten Ironman-distance triathlons across ten consecutive days and six Hawaiian islands. JD describes what happens when exhaustion strips away confidence, motivation and even your sense of identity — and why adjusting the plan is not the same as abandoning the mission.The conversation explores the importance of recovery, the dangers of comparing ourselves with carefully curated lives online and the need to distinguish between genuine ambition and the pressure to prove ourselves to others. JD also discusses the Christian faith behind the Hungry Warrior Academy, drawing inspiration from the story of David and Goliath. For JD, being a “hungry warrior” is not simply about physical strength. It means developing the courage, purpose and spiritual resilience to confront challenges despite fear. This is a thoughtful conversation about childhood adversity, military service, mental endurance, faith, leadership and the continuing hunger to create a life of meaning. Chris and JD discuss:  Joining the Canadian military at 17 • Growing up in northern Quebec • Experiencing bullying as a child television performer • How systems and structure create discipline • The difference between motivation and commitment • Training for extreme endurance events • Completing ten Ironman-distance triathlons in ten days • What happens mentally when the body wants to stop • Why changing the plan does not mean abandoning the goal • The importance of recovery and slowing down • The dangers of social-media comparison • Faith, courage and the story of David and Goliath • The meaning behind the Hungry Warrior Academy • Helping people develop physically, mentally and spiritually • JD’s humanitarian work supporting children and communities ABOUT JD TREMBLAYJD Tremblay is a Canadian military veteran, firefighter, integrated engineer, naturopathic practitioner, mentor and ultra-endurance athlete.He is one of only a small number of athletes to have completed the EpicDeca, consisting of ten Ironman-distance triathlons across ten consecutive days and six Hawaiian islands. JD is the author of Hunger for More in Life, a book exploring mental resilience, ambitious goals, personal purpose and the lessons he has learned by pushing beyond perceived physical and psychological limits.He is also Director of High Performance and Mental Resilience Advisor at the Hungry Warrior Academy, where he helps Christian men develop stronger bodies, sharper minds, deeper faith and a renewed sense of purpose.FIND OUT MOREHungry Warrior Academy: https://hungrywarrioracademy.com Book: Hunger for More in Life: Conquer Mental Struggles, Defy Limitations, and Discover Purpose Through Epic Achievements Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs is a professionally produced broadcast interview programme featuring thoughtful, long-form conversations with authors from around the world.Presented by broadcast journalist, BBC and Times Radio newsreader and university journalism lecturer Chris Dabbs, the programme explores the experiences, ideas and personal stories behind each author’s work. Discover more interviews at:https://author-conversations.com Follow Author Conversations wherever you listen and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement to keep moving towards a difficult goal. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support. Every book has a story beyond its pages. In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.  Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing. From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire. Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism, Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most. Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books. Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.

    Hungry for More: Discipline, Faith and Endurance | JD Tremblay

  4. Jul 20

    The War on Both Sides | Keith Daniel Saunders Sr.

    "What if the greatest divide isn't between races—but between the assumptions we make about one another?" After more than thirty years as a teacher, principal and community leader, Keith Daniel Saunders Sr. has dedicated his life to helping young people overcome barriers and realise their potential. His memoir, Roosevelt to the Hamptons: The War on Both Sides, isn't a story about military conflict—it's a deeply personal exploration of identity, belonging and navigating a world where people are too often judged before they're understood. In this thoughtful episode of Author Conversations, Keith reflects on growing up between Black and White communities, the discrimination he encountered during his career in education and why genuine leadership begins with empathy rather than division. Drawing on decades of experience working with students and families, Keith explains why he chose to write his memoir, the lessons he's learned about resilience and why understanding another person's perspective is one of the most powerful tools we have. Rather than assigning blame, this conversation challenges listeners to question assumptions, embrace self-awareness and recognise that lasting change starts with honest dialogue. So, whether you're interested in memoirs, leadership, education, social issues or simply hearing an inspiring life story, Keith's message is ultimately one of hope: every community becomes stronger when we're prepared to listen to one another. 📖 Featured Book: Roosevelt to the Hamptons: The War on Both Sides 🌐 Episode Page: www.author-conversations.com/keith-saunders IN THIS EPISODE • Why Keith finally decided to write his memoir • Growing up between two worlds • Identity, race and belonging • The realities of working in education • Leadership through empathy • Challenging stereotypes and assumptions • Helping young people succeed • Why self-awareness changes everything • Lessons from a lifetime in education • Building bridges instead of barriers CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 01:18 Why Keith wrote Roosevelt to the Hamptons 04:42 Growing up between two worlds 09:05 Identity and belonging 14:31 Life as an educator and principal 20:14 Facing prejudice and misunderstanding 26:03 Leadership, empathy and listening 31:18 Why education changes lives 36:52 The message behind the memoir 42:11 What Keith hopes readers take away 46:35 Final reflections You can now watch the interview on YouTube Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support. Every book has a story beyond its pages. In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.  Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing. From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire. Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism, Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most. Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books. Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.

    The War on Both Sides | Keith Daniel Saunders Sr.

  5. Jul 18

    Finding Yourself Before Finding Love | Becky Larson Bloom

    "Sometimes the biggest adventure isn't falling in love—it's learning to believe in yourself." Becky Larson Bloom didn't publish her first novel until later in life, after years of encouragement from family and friends who believed she had a story to tell. In this uplifting episode of Author Conversations, Becky discusses the inspiration behind her debut novel, New Beginnings, and explains why it's about far more than romance. At its heart, the book explores identity, vulnerability and the courage to embrace life's unexpected opportunities. Becky reveals how personal experiences, dreams and regrets quietly shaped her fictional characters, and why genuine love should help us become better versions of ourselves rather than rescue us from ourselves. She also reflects on finally becoming a published author in her late sixties, fulfilling a promise inspired by her late mother-in-law, and why it's never too late to pursue a lifelong dream. Whether you're a fan of contemporary romance, women's fiction or simply looking for encouragement to begin a new chapter in your own life, this conversation is a reminder that some of life's most meaningful journeys start much later than we expect. 📖 Featured Book New Beginnings by Becky Larson Bloom 🌐 Episode page: https://www.author-conversations.com/becky-larson-bloom 📚 Book: https://amzn.eu/d/02k3ppzl Inspiration: Read our blog post on writing your first novel in your 60s: Blog link In this episode • Publishing a first novel later in life • The inspiration behind New Beginnings • Finding yourself before finding love • Writing characters with vulnerability and hope • Personal experiences that shaped the story • Why self-discovery matters as much as romance • Following lifelong dreams at any age • Turning encouragement into action • The realities of writing a debut novel • Why it's never too late to begin again CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction 01:14 Why Becky finally wrote her first novel 04:03 Publishing later in life 06:28 The inspiration behind New Beginnings 10:41 Finding yourself before finding love 15:02 How personal experiences shaped the story 19:34 Writing believable relationships 23:18 Trust, vulnerability and emotional growth 27:56 Why new beginnings can happen at any age 32:12 The challenges of writing a debut novel 36:21 What Becky hopes readers take away 39:02 Advice for aspiring writers 41:08 Where to find New Beginnings Thanks for your support! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support. Every book has a story beyond its pages. In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.  Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing. From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire. Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism, Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most. Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books. Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.

    Finding Yourself Before Finding Love | Becky Larson Bloom

  6. Jul 16

    She Lost Everything in an Accident, Then Built Her Life Back

    Doctors gave Donna Valentino just a 40% chance of survival. What followed was years of rehabilitation, relearning basic life skills and rebuilding an entirely new life. In this powerful episode of Author Conversations, Donna shares the extraordinary story behind her books Headstrong and Heartstrong, beginning with the catastrophic ATV accident that left her with a severe traumatic brain injury and continuing through one of the most remarkable recovery journeys you'll hear. Doctors gave Donna Valentino just a 40% chance of survival after a devastating traumatic brain injury. In this inspiring conversation, she shares how she rebuilt her life, found new purpose and turned unimaginable adversity into hope for others.   Donna describes waking from a medically induced coma, struggling with memory loss, hallucinations and confusion, and facing the daunting task of learning how to swallow, walk and reclaim her independence. But this conversation goes beyond survival. Together we explore identity, resilience, purpose and hope. Donna explains how the experience transformed her outlook on life, why recovery is about far more than physical healing, and how helping other traumatic brain injury survivors became her life's mission. Rather than allowing tragedy to define her, she chose to use it to encourage others facing life-changing illness, injury and adversity. Whether you're navigating your own recovery, supporting someone you love or simply looking for an inspiring story of human resilience, Donna's journey is a powerful reminder that hope can survive even the darkest circumstances. The conversation is positioned as much around identity, purpose and rebuilding a life as it is around the medical realities of traumatic brain injury. In this episode • Surviving a catastrophic traumatic brain injury • Living with a 40% chance of survival • Waking from a medically induced coma • Hallucinations, memory loss and rehabilitation • Relearning everyday life after brain injury • The emotional impact on family relationships • Finding hope during recovery • Why gratitude became stronger than bitterness • Supporting other brain injury survivors • Turning unimaginable trauma into purpose • The stories behind Headstrong and Heartstrong 📖 Books featured: Headstrong: Surviving a Traumatic Brain Injury Without Losing My Mind Heartstrong: Overcome Obstacles and Live Life to the Fullest 🎙️ Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs brings you inspiring conversations with authors about the stories behind their books—and the lives behind those stories. 00:00 Introduction 01:08 The ATV accident that changed everything 03:18 A 40% chance of survival 05:41 Waking from a medically induced coma 08:02 Relearning how to swallow, walk and live again 11:06 Memory loss, hallucinations and brain injury 14:20 Losing your identity after trauma 17:43 How Donna's family coped 20:56 The turning point in recovery 24:18 Finding purpose after surviving 27:41 Why gratitude replaced bitterness 31:09 Supporting other traumatic brain injury survivors 34:27 Headstrong vs Heartstrong 37:12 Advice for anyone facing life-changing adversity 40:03 One message Donna hopes readers never forget 41:12 Where to find Donna's books https://donnavalentinobooks.com/https://donnavalentinobooks.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support. Every book has a story beyond its pages. In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.  Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing. From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire. Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism, Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most. Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books. Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.

    She Lost Everything in an Accident, Then Built Her Life Back

  7. Jul 16

    Nobody Believed Her: Christa Jan Ryan on Childhood Trauma, Addiction & Survival

    “My parents held a very good persona. I continued to try to impress upon the authorities that what they saw on the outside was not what was going on on the inside. Nobody bought it. Nobody believed it.” Christa Jan Ryan What happens when a child tells adults that home is unsafe—and nobody believes her? Christa Jan Ryan describes growing up in a respected family while trying unsuccessfully to convince adults that she and her siblings were not safe at home. She explores the childhood trauma behind her addiction, the long road to recovery and why being believed is essential to healing.   Her mother was a high-profile teacher, her parents were known within the community, and Christa says her attempts to explain what was happening at home were dismissed. In this deeply personal conversation, Christa describes growing up amid addiction, domestic violence and fear, and how those early experiences shaped her own dependence on alcohol and drugs. She recalls trying alcohol at a very young age and feeling, for the first time, relief from the anxiety surrounding her. By thirteen, she says she was already unable to get through the day without drinking or taking drugs. But this is also a story of recovery, faith and reclaiming a voice that had been ignored. Christa explains why treating addiction requires understanding the trauma that propelled it, why survivors need their experiences to be validated, and how her work in recovery and prison ministry transformed her understanding of healing, judgement and human behaviour. Her memoir, Silent Screams from the Hamptons: Trouble in Paradise, reveals the pain that can exist behind seemingly perfect families and prestigious communities. In This Episode What happens when a child is not believedThe contrast between a respected public image and life behind closed doorsGrowing up around addiction and domestic violenceWhy Christa began drinking at five years oldHow childhood anxiety shaped her later addictionThe trauma underlying destructive behaviourLosing faith after witnessing hypocrisyWhy survivors need validationLessons from twenty-two years working in recoveryHow ten years of prison ministry changed herRecovery, faith and learning to live differently A quick note before you listen: You'll notice my audio isn't up to the usual Author Conversations standard due to an unforeseen technical issue during recording. Thankfully, Christa's audio is clear throughout. We considered not publishing the interview, but her story of childhood trauma, recovery and resilience is simply too important to leave unheard. Thanks for your patience—I hope you'll forgive the technical hiccup and find Christa's extraordinary story as moving and inspiring as I did. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction 02:32 Understanding the trauma behind addiction 03:37 Growing up in a highly traumatic home 04:35 Domestic violence, fear and the absence of safety 06:15 Drinking alcohol at five years old 07:09 How childhood trauma shaped addictive behaviour 08:33 The respectable family image that concealed the truth 08:51 “Nobody bought it. Nobody believed it” 09:02 Trying to tell adults: “We’re not safe at home” 12:14 Faith, protection and childhood hypocrisy 26:29 Why survivors need validation 26:45 Ten years working in prison ministry 32:35 Breaking patterns and refusing to be ruled by triggers Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support. Every book has a story beyond its pages. In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.  Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing. From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire. Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism, Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most. Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books. Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.

    Nobody Believed Her: Christa Jan Ryan on Childhood Trauma, Addiction & Survival

  8. Jul 14

    He Became an Author at 63 — “It’s Never Too Late” | Ray Denyer

    Is it ever too late to pursue the dream you kept putting off? Ray Denyer became an author in his sixties — and his message is simple: never give up. After decades of making up stories for his family, encouragement from his 14 grandchildren finally persuaded Ray to start writing them down. The result was Algernon Breadstick: The Hapless Knight, a warm, funny fantasy adventure about an unlikely hero who fails, gets lost, makes mistakes — and keeps going. In this episode of Author Conversations, Ray joins Chris Dabbs to talk about becoming an author later in life, the family storytelling tradition that brought Algernon Breadstick to life and why failure does not have to mean defeat. Algernon may be a hapless knight, but every setback teaches him something. His confidence grows, his mistakes become lessons and the mythical creatures he is supposed to defeat often become his friends instead. Ray also explains why kindness matters more to him than conflict, why there are no real winners when people fight and how Algernon has become part of the legacy he hopes to leave for his children and grandchildren. In this conversation: ⚔️ Why Ray finally became an author in his sixties 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 How his 14 grandchildren encouraged him to start writing 📖 Where the wonderfully unlikely name Algernon Breadstick came from 🏰 Why failure is central to Algernon’s journey 🐉 Why monsters are not always the enemy 🧭 The humour behind Algernon’s disastrous sense of direction ❤️ Why kindness can be more powerful than conflict 💪 The importance of learning from mistakes and never giving up 🌟 Ray’s message for anyone who thinks they have left it too late 👑 The legacy he hopes Algernon Breadstick will leave for his family “While we’ve still got breath, we’ve still got a chance.” 📚 Featured book: Algernon Breadstick: The Hapless Knight by Ray Denyer 🌐 Find out more about Ray: raydenyerauthor.com 🎙️ Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs — conversations with authors about the stories behind their books and the lives behind the stories. Watch on YouTube Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support. Every book has a story beyond its pages. In Author Conversations, broadcast journalist, presenter and newsreader Chris Dabbs sits down with the writers behind some of today’s most fascinating books to uncover the research, experiences and ideas that never made it onto the printed page.  Featuring bestselling and emerging authors from around the world, each episode goes beyond the blurb to explore the real stories behind the writing. From untold historical discoveries and groundbreaking scientific research to personal journeys, business insights, faith, true crime and the human experience, every conversation is designed to inform, challenge and inspire. Drawing on more than two decades of professional interviewing across radio, television and digital journalism, Chris creates thoughtful, in-depth conversations that give authors the time and space to tell the stories that matter most. Whether you’re searching for your next great read, fascinated by the creative process or simply enjoy intelligent, long-form conversations, Author Conversations offers a unique opportunity to discover the people, ideas and experiences behind remarkable books. Real authors. Real stories. Real conversations.

    He Became an Author at 63 — “It’s Never Too Late” | Ray Denyer
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Author Conversations with Chris Dabbs is a long-form interview podcast exploring the ideas behind books. Broadcast journalist Chris Dabbs speaks with novelists, historians, scientists, religious and commuunity leaders and non-fiction writers about their work, the research behind their books and the stories that shaped them. Each episode takes a thoughtful look at the creative process, big ideas and the questions authors wrestle with when writing about history, science, politics and the human experience. If you enjoy author interviews, literary conversations and discussions about books and ideas, Author Conversations offers a relaxed but insightful look behind the pages. Hosted by Chris Dabbs – broadcast journalist and podcast host. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/author-conversations-with-chris-dabbs--6905413/support.

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