Advertise on podcast: Burke Allen's Big Time Talker Podcast — by SpeakerMatch

On this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, recorded live at the American Library Association Summer Conference in Chicago, Burke Allen welcomes cybersecurity expert and author Kevin McGuire to discuss his thrilling debut into cyber fiction with Sleeper Code, a novel that explores the terrifying possibilities of artificial intelligence falling into the wrong hands. With 32 years of experience protecting America's critical infrastructure, including cybersecurity leadership at the Federal Aviation Administration and the Naval Surface Warfare Centers, Kevin brings firsthand knowledge to a story that feels alarmingly close to reality. He shares how his career defending vital government systems inspired a novel about an artificial intelligence attempting to infiltrate America's power grids, water supplies, banking networks, hospitals, and transportation systems. Kevin takes listeners behind the scenes of modern cyber warfare, explaining how state-sponsored cyberterrorism, interconnected devices, and rapidly advancing AI technology are creating new vulnerabilities. He also reveals why Sleeper Code underwent reviews by multiple federal agencies before publication and discusses how real-world cybersecurity experiences influenced the fictional threats in his book. The conversation explores the importance of digital hygiene, the evolving relationship between ethical hackers and cybercriminals, and the crucial role of human expertise in defending against increasingly sophisticated attacks. Kevin also shares how he transformed complex technical concepts into an accessible, character-driven thriller that readers can enjoy without a background in technology. As artificial intelligence continues to reshape everyday life, Kevin offers a timely perspective on its benefits, risks, and the responsibility we all share in using it wisely. From protecting personal information to safeguarding national infrastructure, this episode is a fascinating look at the digital threats hiding in plain sight—and the dedicated professionals working around the clock to keep us safe. This episode of Burke Allen’s Big Time Talker was recorded live in the great city of Chicago at the American Library Association Podcast Pavilion, thanks to the Next Generation Indy Book Awards, Headline Books and Speakermatch.com!

On this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, Burke Allen welcomes back award-winning author and filmmaker Rick Robinson for a special simulcast with Zoom Into Books. Rick discusses 1968, his nonfiction book and documentary exploring one of the most turbulent and transformative years in American history. From the Vietnam War and the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy to the civil rights movement, political upheaval, and the unforgettable music of the era, Rick examines the events that shaped a generation and continue to influence American society today. Rick shares how his fascination with 1968 began with researching old newspapers and eventually grew into a fully funded documentary. Rather than relying solely on historians, the film features firsthand accounts from everyday Americans who experienced the era, including Vietnam veterans, musicians, and people who witnessed the social and cultural changes unfolding around them. The conversation also explores the powerful role of music in the 1960s, from Bob Dylan and The Beatles to Motown and local garage bands. Rick discusses the challenges of turning a historically significant year into a compelling documentary, working alongside his son on the production, and his commitment to bringing these important stories to younger generations. In a deeply personal moment, Rick opens up about his diagnosis of multiple system atrophy and how his health challenges gave him an even greater determination to complete the film. Despite the difficulties, he reflects on the joy of filmmaking, the importance of family, and the hope that emerged from a year marked by division and uncertainty. At its heart, Rick's message is a powerful reminder: history matters, and remembering the past is essential to understanding the present and shaping a better future. This episode of Burke Allen’s Big Time Talker was recorded live in the great city of Chicago at the American Library Association Podcast Pavilion, thanks to the Next Generation Indy Book Awards, Headline Books and Speakermatch.com!

On this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, recorded live at the American Library Association Summer Conference in Chicago, Burke Allen welcomes award-winning author B.R. Michaels to discuss her debut fantasy novel, Stolen Histories, and her journey into independent publishing. Winner of a Next Generation Indie Book Award, Stolen Histories is an epic fantasy adventure following a deaf Oracle who leads a ragtag team of thieves on a multidimensional heist. Filled with magic, morally complex characters, found family, and unexpected twists, the novel takes readers into a richly imagined world where identity and representation are naturally woven into the story. B.R. shares how she spent nearly a decade developing her characters, researching authentic representation, and creating an expansive fantasy universe. She discusses the challenges of writing and editing an almost 600-page novel, balancing intricate world-building with compelling storytelling, and allowing her characters to shape the direction of the narrative. The conversation also explores B.R.'s decision to establish her own independent publishing company, Once Upon a Queer Publishing, to maintain creative control over her work. She discusses the realities of self-publishing, the challenges of book marketing, and her monthly literary magazine, Lavender Rising, which showcases stories, poetry, essays, and artwork from queer creators. With plans for a six-book fantasy series and ambitions to support more independent authors, B.R. offers an inspiring look at the dedication, creativity, and determination required to bring an original literary vision to life. This episode of Burke Allen’s Big Time Talker was recorded live in the great city of Chicago at the American Library Association Podcast Pavilion, thanks to the Next Generation Indy Book Awards, Headline Books and Speakermatch.com!

On this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, recorded live at the American Library Association Summer Conference in Chicago, Burke Allen welcomes professional magician, producer, and author Connie Boyd to discuss her award-winning book The Power of Magical Women and the extraordinary women who have shaped the world of magic. With more than 35 years of experience as a professional magician, Connie shares how the entertainment industry's shutdown during the pandemic inspired her to launch the Magical Women Project. What began as a YouTube channel and a series of articles for Vanish Magic Magazine eventually became a book featuring more than 70 remarkable female magicians from around the world. Connie takes listeners behind the curtain to explore the often-overlooked contributions of women in magic, from pioneering performers and illusionists to modern record-breakers and rising stars. She shares fascinating stories of women who have challenged expectations, invented illusions, and used their performances to advocate for social change, education, and humanitarian causes. The conversation also explores the importance of representation, overcoming adversity, and finding the courage to pursue a passion in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Connie explains why great magic is about more than clever tricks—it's about storytelling, authenticity, emotional connection, and creating a sense of wonder.Whether you're a lifelong fan of magic or simply love inspiring stories of determination and creativity, this episode celebrates the women who are redefining what's possible, both onstage and beyond. This episode of Burke Allen’s Big Time Talker was recorded live in the great city of Chicago at the American Library Association Podcast Pavilion, thanks to the Next Generation Indy Book Awards, Headline Books and Speakermatch.com!

On this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, recorded at the American Library Association conference in Chicago, Burke Allen welcomes author Dan E. Hendrickson to discuss his historical Western novel Railroad Man: Legacy Son. Set in 1883, the novel follows Arthur Edwards, a Civil War Navy veteran tasked with helping extend the railroad from Cheyenne, Wyoming, north toward Billings, Montana. The story expands the Edwards family bloodline that Dan first developed in his earlier novels, taking readers deeper into the family's history and the rapidly changing American West. Dan discusses how growing up in Sheridan, Wyoming, working on ranches, riding horses, and experiencing the landscape firsthand helped him bring authenticity to the novel. He also shares the extensive historical research behind the story, including the expansion of the railroad, the booming cattle industry, and the complicated relationships between railroad interests, cattlemen, and Native American communities. At the center of the novel is Arthur's struggle with trauma and his relationship with Eileen, the granddaughter of Crow leader Chief Pretty Eagle. When Eileen and her mother are kidnapped amid a dispute surrounding the railroad, Arthur is forced to confront his past and prove that he can carry forward the legacy of his abolitionist parents. Dan also explains how he balances historical detail with the ingredients of a page-turning Western: romance, personal stakes, memorable characters, action, and a hero with something meaningful to fight for.  This episode of Burke Allen’s Big Time Talker was recorded live in the great city of Chicago at the American Library Association Podcast Pavilion, thanks to the Next Generation Indy Book Awards, Headline Books and Speakermatch.com!

On this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, recorded at the American Library Association Summer Conference in Chicago, Burke Allen sits down with author Judah Freed to discuss the 2026 edition of Making Global Sense, his modern extension of Thomas Paine’s Common Sense. Judah explains how Paine’s ideas inspired him to explore concepts he calls a “Declaration of Interdependence,” mindful self-rule, personal democracy, and direct republics. At the center of his philosophy is the belief that recognizing our interconnectedness can influence how people treat themselves, one another, and the communities and institutions around them. The conversation explores Judah’s interpretation of authority, leadership, external validation, personal responsibility, and the importance he places on conscience and intuition. He also discusses his proposal for giving citizens a more direct role in ratifying laws and how those ideas connect to his reading of Paine and the values of the Enlightenment. With the 2026 edition marking the 250th anniversary of Common Sense, Judah reflects on the continuing relevance he sees in questions about freedom, responsibility, democracy, and how individuals relate to the wider world. He also shares news about the paperback, hardcover, ebook, and forthcoming audiobook editions of Making Global Sense.  This episode of Burke Allen’s Big Time Talker was recorded live in the great city of Chicago at the American Library Association Podcast Pavilion, thanks to the Next Generation Indy Book Awards, Headline Books and Speakermatch.com!

On this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, Burke Allen welcomes back award-winning author and educator Hazell Thomas to discuss Money Moves a Nation: A Civil Rights Lesson for Children and the personal history that inspired her to write it. Hazell grew up in Money, Mississippi, the small town connected to the 1955 murder of Emmett Till—an event that became a catalyst in the American Civil Rights Movement. Drawing on stories passed down by her parents and her own memories of growing up in the Mississippi Delta, Hazell set out to introduce this history to younger readers in an accessible and inspiring way. Through the story of fourth grader Jonah and his family trip to Money, Mississippi, the book connects multiple generations of one family to the history of the Civil Rights Movement. Hazell explains why she wanted children to understand not only the tragedy associated with the town, but also the broader history, culture, music, and people of the Mississippi Delta. The conversation also explores Hazell's journey from classroom teacher to award-winning author, the response Money Moves a Nation has received from schools and universities, and why she believes families should pass their histories and stories on to the next generation. At its heart, Hazell's message is simple: our stories matter, and history matters. This episode of Burke Allen’s Big Time Talker was recorded live in the great city of Chicago at the American Library Association Podcast Pavilion, thanks to the Next Generation Indy Book Awards, Headline Books and Speakermatch.com!

On this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, Burke Allen welcomes back award-winning children's author Matt Dragovits to discuss Dawn of Legends: A Tale for Christmas, the latest addition to the magical world of Zach’s Quest. Matt shares how growing up with nine brothers and sisters in Pennsylvania—and watching classic Rankin/Bass Christmas specials—helped shape his lifelong love of the holiday season. That inspiration eventually became a world where Santa, elves, the Star of Bethlehem, faith, adventure, and the magic of Christmas come together. The conversation explores the origins behind Dawn of Legends, a prequel that expands the Zach’s Quest universe and reveals more about Santa's arrival at the North Pole, the Nature Elves, the toymaker elves, and the forces standing in their way. Matt also explains how he incorporates themes of faith, redemption, personal growth, and finding your place in the world without losing the excitement of a Christmas adventure. Matt takes listeners behind his writing process, including how characters can begin to guide their own stories, his experience working with artists connected to Disney productions, and his hopes of eventually bringing the Zach’s Quest universe to the screen. He also discusses experimenting with emerging technology while maintaining original artwork and creative control. And, of course, Burke and Matt talk Christmas—from childhood sledding and hot chocolate to Chicago holiday traditions, family ornaments, favorite movies, and the memories that keep the season magical year after year. This episode of Burke Allen’s Big Time Talker was recorded live in the great city of Chicago at the American Library Association Podcast Pavilion, thanks to the Next Generation Indy Book Awards, Headline Books and Speakermatch.com!

On this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, Burke Allen welcomes back award-winning children's author and illustrator Ashley Belote to talk about the latest chapter in her creative career, including Squirrel Lock Holmes #1: The Pet Rock Mystery and Little Red and Big Bad Fred. Ashley shares how Squirrel Lock Holmes became her first early chapter book in a graphic-novel style, following squirrel detective Squirrel Lock and her mole partner Watson as they operate the Lost and Found Detective Agency. She explains why she chose a female lead, how working in comic-style panels challenged her illustration techniques, and the lessons about perseverance woven into the mystery. She also dives into Little Red and Big Bad Fred, her humorous twist on Little Red Riding Hood, and explains why humor is one of her favorite tools for introducing meaningful lessons without allowing the message to overwhelm the fun of the story. The conversation also takes listeners behind the scenes of children's publishing, from Ashley's beginnings as an illustrator to finding a literary agent and working with major publishers. She discusses critique groups, testing ideas with young readers, developing a distinctive artistic style, and her perspective on AI and the future of human-created illustration. For Ashley, one of the greatest rewards still comes from meeting young readers, showing them how books are created, and watching their excitement when they discover that they can create stories and art of their own. This episode of Burke Allen’s Big Time Talker was recorded live in the great city of Chicago at the American Library Association Podcast Pavilion, thanks to the Next Generation Indy Book Awards, Headline Books and Speakermatch.com!

On this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, Burke Allen sits down with award-winning author K.M. Cookie to discuss her debut novel, Song of Hummingbird Highway, and the personal journey that finally inspired her to become the writer she had always wanted to be. K.M. introduces Terry, a Midwestern woman who follows her musician boyfriend to Belize, where mystical rhythms and ancient forces lead her on an unexpected journey. When her son is kidnapped, Terry must confront betrayal, risk everything to rescue him, and ultimately face the person she has been running from—herself. K.M. also shares how Atomic Habits helped transform her mindset from someone who wanted to write into someone who was a writer, and how a simple daily ritual involving 30 crystals helped her remain consistent through the three-year process of completing her novel. The conversation explores the book's unique connection to music, the real Hummingbird Highway in Belize, K.M.'s approach to growth mindset, and the lessons she has learned about grit, resilience, instinct, and tenacity. She also discusses her own experience with pain and why embracing life's challenges rather than simply fighting them became an important part of the story. From writing every morning before work to winning multiple literary awards for her debut novel, K.M.'s story is a reminder of what can happen when you stop waiting to pursue something meaningful and begin taking consistent steps toward it. This episode of Burke Allen’s Big Time Talker was recorded live in the great city of Chicago at the American Library Association Podcast Pavilion, thanks to the Next Generation Indy Book Awards, Headline Books and Speakermatch.com!

On this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, Burke Allen sits down with author Jessica Teich to discuss the revised anniversary edition of The Future Tense of Joy, a deeply personal memoir that intertwines her own life with the story of a young woman she never met. Jessica shares how an obituary for 27-year-old Lacey Cooper Reynolds captured her attention and ultimately transformed what began as an autobiography into what she describes as a "shared memoir." Her search to understand Lacey's life led her to family members, teachers, and a private investigator—and unexpectedly opened doors into Jessica's own past. Their conversation explores the pressure women can experience to appear successful and perfect, the difficulty of showing vulnerability, and Jessica's own experiences with trauma and sexual abuse. She reflects on her time at Yale and Oxford as one of the first female Rhodes Scholars, her decades working in Los Angeles theater, and the importance of recognizing when environments and relationships no longer allow us to thrive. Jessica also discusses why she returned to the book a decade after its original publication, how the #MeToo era changed the context surrounding its themes, and what she has learned from survivors who have approached her after readings to share their own experiences. At its heart, this conversation is about healing, safety, freedom, and what Jessica calls "the consolations of belonging"—the knowledge that even after trauma, there are people willing to listen, care, and help. This episode of Burke Allen’s Big Time Talker was recorded live in the great city of Chicago at the American Library Association Podcast Pavilion, thanks to the Next Generation Indy Book Awards, Headline Books and Speakermatch.com!

On this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, Burke Allen sits down with award-winning author C.C. Soleil to discuss her historical thriller, Holy Orders. Blending historical fiction, contemporary mystery, archaeology, and a touch of the supernatural, Holy Orders follows a team of archaeologists in southern Germany whose investigation into the Black Plague uncovers evidence of a horrific crime buried for 700 years. As the mystery deepens, they discover that uncovering history could put their own lives at risk. C.C. shares how extensive research into the Middle Ages shaped the novel, from clothing, food, travel, and social customs to religious life and the realities surrounding the Black Plague. She also explores how faith, morality, manipulation, and the search for truth became important themes within the story. The conversation dives into C.C.'s writing process, how she connects the novel's medieval and modern-day timelines, the surprising ways her characters evolve as she writes, and why historical research became one of her favorite parts of creating Holy Orders.Whether you love historical fiction, archaeological mysteries, suspense, or stories that explore the complicated intersection of faith and human nature, this episode offers a fascinating look behind the creation of Holy Orders. This episode of Burke Allen’s Big Time Talker was recorded live in the great city of Chicago at the American Library Association Podcast Pavilion, thanks to the Next Generation Indy Book Awards, Headline Books and Speakermatch.com!

On this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, Burke Allen welcomes author, psychotherapist, and educator Mary McCluskey to discuss her award-winning children's books, The Leader of the Parade and Bubbles, Balloons, and Birds. Drawing on more than two decades of experience as a therapist, Mary shares how her books help children navigate emotions, trauma, diversity, grief, and resilience through imaginative storytelling. She also reveals the deeply personal inspiration behind the series—honoring her mother, an artist living with Alzheimer's disease, by incorporating her original artwork into the books, while collaborating with her daughter to bring the characters to life. The conversation explores the psychological theories of Alfred Adler and Pierre Janet, the importance of connection in children's emotional development, the challenges young people face in today's digital world, and how literature can foster empathy, healing, and hope. Mary also discusses her work supporting children affected by war, including the Ukrainian edition of Bubbles, Balloons, and Birds, and previews her upcoming historical middle-grade novel inspired by Frédéric Chopin and George Sand. Whether you're a parent, educator, therapist, or simply passionate about children's literature, this episode offers thoughtful insights into the power of stories to help young readers grow, heal, and thrive. This episode of Burke Allen’s Big Time Talker was recorded live in the great city of Chicago at the American Library Association Podcast Pavilion, thanks to the Next Generation Indy Book Awards, Headline Books and Speakermatch.com!

On this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, Burke Allen welcomes award-winning author E.G. Slade to discuss Momentum Montessori: A Life in Motion, a historical novel inspired by the life and personal writings of Dr. Maria Montessori. Drawing from Montessori's 1913 diary and extensive historical research, Elizabeth Slade explores the remarkable woman behind one of the world's most influential educational philosophies. The conversation delves into Maria Montessori's groundbreaking work as one of Italy's first female physicians, the origins of the Montessori method, and the deeply personal choices she made while pursuing her life's mission. Elizabeth also shares her own journey into Montessori education, the challenges of blending historical fact with fiction, the research that brought the story to life, and why themes of courage, change, and perseverance continue to resonate with readers today. Whether you're an educator, history enthusiast, Montessori parent, or simply enjoy compelling historical fiction, this episode offers a fascinating look at the woman whose ideas transformed education around the world. This episode of Burke Allen’s Big Time Talker was recorded live in the great city of Chicago at the American Library Association Podcast Pavilion, thanks to the Next Generation Indy Book Awards, Headline Books and Speakermatch.com!

On this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, Burke Allen welcomes entrepreneur, business leader, and motivational speaker Tony Holland for an inspiring conversation about resilience, financial literacy, and building lasting wealth. Tony shares his remarkable journey from growing up in a difficult environment in Brunswick, Maryland, to earning a scholarship to Johns Hopkins University, overcoming homelessness, and becoming a managing partner at Integrity Marketing Group. Along the way, he reflects on the mindset shifts, mentors, and personal discipline that transformed his life. The conversation explores practical strategies for breaking generational poverty, developing an entrepreneurial mindset, teaching children about money, investing wisely, and creating financial security for future generations. Tony also discusses the importance of surrounding yourself with successful people, embracing lifelong learning, leveraging AI as an educational tool, and why wealth begins with changing the way you think. Whether you're starting your financial journey, building a business, or looking for inspiration to overcome adversity, this episode is packed with actionable advice and powerful life lessons.