Inside Scoop Live!

THE DIVINE FEMININE
What if the Divine Feminine was not an idea, a symbol, or a distant archetype — but a living presence you could feel, speak with, and walk beside every day?
In The Divine Feminine: From Awakening to Walking in Union, James Crompton shares his raw, unfiltered journey from a restless, ego-driven life into a direct and intimate relationship with the Sacred Feminine. Written from a man’s perspective after an accidental and traumatic Kundalini awakening, this is more than a memoir, it is atransmission of Her presence, Her words flow through the pages.
Through visions, energy awakenings, and everyday encounters, She transforms from a whisper in meditation into a constant companion. Each chapter reveals not only the wonder of mystical union, but also the practical steps of integration — how to let Her dissolve old wounds, embody new wholeness, and walk with you in daily life.
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION:
The Book and Its Inspiration — James shares how The Divine Feminine: From Awakening to Walking in Union grew out of a deeply personal Kundalini awakening experience he kept a diary of for six months. Unable to find honest, relatable accounts written from a Western man's perspective, he wrote the book he couldn't find — one that might offer comfort and clarity to others going through the same disorienting experience alone.
What a Kundalini Awakening Actually Is — James breaks down what this energetic awakening involves: the dismantling of the ego, the rising of energy through the body, and the experience of accessing levels of consciousness that feel autonomous and separate from everyday thinking. He draws parallels between Shakti in Hinduism, Sophia in Gnostic texts, Layla in Sufism, and the Virgin Mary in Catholicism.
The Dark Night of the Soul — James opens up about the darkest moments of his process — feeling mentally unraveled, considering he might be having a breakdown, and at one point being suicidal — and how surrender ultimately became the turning point.
Spiritual Awakening and Emotional Healing — How the awakening process physically released years of stored pain and suppressed emotion, broke longstanding patterns of self-sabotage, and led to James giving up alcohol entirely.
Hidden Awakening Stories in Myth and Culture — James and Sheri explore how stories like The Wizard of Oz, Sleeping Beauty, and Pinocchio carry deeper awakening themes, and why these meanings often go unexplored in Western culture.
The Second Book: Integration — James discusses his follow-up work in progress, focused on what life looks like after the initial awakening — the long-term path of integrating presence, devotion, and inner stillness into everyday life.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
James Crompton is a spiritual writer exploring awakening through lived experience, embodiment, and direct relationship with the Divine Feminine. His work emerges not from doctrine or tradition, but from an intimate inner journey, one that moved from restlessness and striving into surrender, healing, and mystical union.
During meditation, James experienced a profound kundalini awakening through consciously taking in prana through the solar plexus. What began as an inner energetic opening became a living, ongoing process of embodiment, reshaping how presence is felt, wounds are met, and the sacred is lived in everyday life.
Writing from a man’s perspective, James bridges grounded human experience with subtle spiritual realities. His work speaks to those who feel called beyond external success toward inner wholeness, conscious embodiment, and a deeper listening to the intelligence moving through the body and heart.
Through his writing, James invites readers into a felt experience of awakening, where transformation is integrated, the body becomes a doorway, and the Divine Feminine is encountered not as an idea, but as a living presence.
Learn more and connect with James Crompton at: https://jamescromptonauthor.com/ 

FOR CAUSE (3J Legal Thriller Series Book 5)
When Kansas City attorney 3J takes on an energy company's bankruptcy case, a video surfaces showing her client confessing to years of financial fraud and her case collapses in seconds. Her client swears it's a fake, but with twenty days to prove it, she's pulled from downtown courtrooms to Oklahoma oil fields and into the orbit of Kansas City's Irish mob boss, a man whose illegitimate empire now includes the power to manufacture reality itself.
For Cause is a smart, fast-paced legal thriller where corporate greed, organized crime, and deepfake technology collide. Truth never stood a chance.
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
For Cause is the fifth book in Mark Shaiken's 3J Legal Thriller Series
The story centers on bankruptcy attorney 3J, whose client's reputation is suddenly destroyed by a deepfake video
Her client, Remy Paxton, is an oil and gas businessman who finds himself unable to get a loan from the bank group that has backed his family for decades
The book digs into how deepfake technology is creating real challenges in courtrooms today — and whether the legal system is equipped to handle it
3J's determination to win at all costs puts her relationships and her career on the line
With fraud running deeper than it first appears, nothing — and no one — is quite what they seem
Real Kansas City history, landmarks, and local restaurants make their way into the story, giving For Cause an authentic sense of place
The ending leaves 3J in uncharted territory, setting the stage for the next book in the series
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mark Shaiken lives with his wife Loren and their dog Emily in Denver Colorado. He schooled at Haverford College and Washburn University, and practiced commercial bankruptcy law for almost 4 decades before moving on to writing, board service, and his photography and music.
CONNECT WITH MARK SHAIKEN!
Website: https://markshaikenauthor.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markshaikenauthor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@markshaikenauthor8374 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markshaikenauthor/ 

LAUGHING THROUGH THE STORM
Diagnosed with epilepsy at 13, Jane's life took a wild turn full of seizures, specialists, and some seriously strange hospital adventures. But instead of letting it break her, she learned to laugh-at the chaos, the cringe, and even the curveballs. Laughing Through the Storm is a hilariously honest memoir about finding resilience, ridiculousness, and unexpected joy in the middle of life's messiest moments.
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION:
Living with epilepsy for 30+ years — Jane shares what it's really like to have grand mal seizures every two days, including the physical toll, the brain fog, and the invisible nature of the struggle that others simply can't see.
Being diagnosed at 13 and the social impact — Jane opens up about how her childhood diagnosis led to being labeled as "different" by peers, how she learned to stay quiet to protect herself, and how finding her voice became central to writing the book.
The hidden side of seizures — what happens after — Jane explains that the seizure itself is only part of the story; the exhaustion, disorientation, and constant unpredictability are what shape daily life in ways most people don't understand.
Humor and resilience as survival tools — Jane discusses how humor became a coping mechanism, with a candid and funny story about the most awkward place a seizure has ever hit, and how her husband and the Hoffman Process helped her find her true self. 
Donating proceeds to Epilepsy Ottawa — Jane shares why this book is a purpose-driven project, how Epilepsy Ottawa supported her family after her diagnosis, and her broader mission to give hope to anyone living with a chronic condition.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jane Rogers is an accidental expert in epilepsy, diagnosed at 13 and living with it ever since. She’s spent over three decades navigating seizures, side effects, and hospital adventures with grit, sarcasm, and a solid sense of humor. Laughing Through the Storm is her first book—a tribute to resilience, ridiculous moments, and finding light in the darkest places.
She lives in Ottawa with her supportive husband, Pascal, and their two mischievous chihuahuas, Junior and Bailey.
Learn More and Connect with Jane Rogers:
Website: https://laughingthroughthestorm.com/ 
Facebook-  https://www.facebook.com/jane.rogers.339999
Instagram- @laughingthroughthestorm
Linkedin- linkedin.com- https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-rogers-46684842

MATTHEW'S JOURNEY: The Return Home
Caroline and Matthew have been nearly inseparable for as long as they both can remember. That is, until the untimely call of war summons Matthew far away to the battlefields of Vlaysar.
With grand designs on an epic adventure, he promises to safely return to Caroline and Meadowshire a hero. But, seriously wounded on the battlefield and left for dead, those delusions of grandeur quickly fade as he, unbeknownst to Caroline, slowly and painfully makes his way home.
Matthew's return becomes a desperate struggle against both time and circumstance. Losing hope at every turn, Caroline grows more desperate with each passing day, not knowing Matthew's true fate, nor certain if they will ever truly be reunited.
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION:
About the book and the inspiration behind the story
Bringing history, love, and war together on the page
Why the story begins with the ones left behind
A soldier’s journey through fear, duty, and survival
The emotional toll of war on families and relationships
What it really means to make it home after war
What's next for William J. Birrell
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
William J. Birrell is a longtime educator, teaching at a well-known Canadian university for over twenty years. In addition to holding several university degrees, including a graduate degree in Education (M.Ed.), William has also developed a passion for writing and telling stories.
He is the proud father of three adult children and seven young grandchildren. He currently lives in the Niagara Region, with his loving partner Sue, nestled in the heart of Southern Ontario.
LEARN MORE AND CONNECT WITH WILLIAM J. BIRRELL
Website: https://williamjbirrellauthor.com/
Facebook – William Birrell or William J. Birrell – Author 
Instagram – william.birrell.5
Linked in - William Birrell 
Get your copy of Matthew's Journey

DEBRIS: A MEMOIR OF LOVE, GRIEF AND COURAGE
Debris is a hauntingly poignant memoir of true love scorched by the flames of Australia's Black Summer Bushfires. What began as a casual online connection blossomed into a beautiful family, ultimately torn apart by tragedy, leaving behind physical wreckage and emotional ruin. Josie's mental health was deeply affected by the traumatic loss of her husband, yet her love for her daughter became an anchor, a reason to live and the quiet force that guides her through grief's darkest corners. As she learns to live with the loss, she begins to uncover what is best for her and her daughter. She embraces change, rebuilds with courage and discovers ways to heal.
Written with fierce tenderness, Debris speaks to anyone who has loved deeply, lost profoundly, and found themselves gathering the fragments of a life altered by tragedy.
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
Debris: Josie’s love story, the Black Summer loss, and the moment she knew she had to write this book
The “before” and “after”: what life looked like with John, then how everything changed overnight
Inside the firestorm: what happened during the bushfires and the emotional whiplash that followed
Grief in real life: parenting through heartbreak, mental health, asking for help, and the stuff people don’t say out loud
Finding solid ground again: what healing actually looked like for her, and what she hopes readers carry with them after Debris
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Josie L. Smith is an author, visual artist, mother, and a public servant whose work spans memoir, community service, and creative expression.
Her debut memoir, DEBRIS: A Memoir of Love, Grief and Courage, traces her powerful journey through love, devastating loss, and the long, courageous work of rebuilding after Australia’s Black Summer bushfires.
In her book, Josie narrated her life with her husband John and their daughter Ems, the tragic loss of her husband, and the emotional aftermath of navigating grief while raising their daughter alone. With honesty, courage, and deep vulnerability, she explores what it truly means to survive, heal, and find strength in the ruins.
Alongside her writing, Josie is an exhibiting artist whose work centres on cathartic process, resilience, and the emotional landscapes left behind by trauma. Her exhibition CATHARSIS, Embers of Resilience brought her paintings and John’s sculptures together as an artistic extension of the themes that shape her life and her memoir.
Beyond her creative practice, Josie works in the Department of Communities and Justice in NSW Australia, supporting children and families through trauma-informed, community-centred practice.
Josie uses her voice—in writing, in her art, and in her community work—to inspire others to face their own storms with courage and resilience.
CONNECT WITH JOSIE L. SMITH
Instagram
Facebook
Josie Smith | LinkedIn
 
 

THE HUMILITY YOU WANT AND THE WORLD NEEDS
Learn the life-changing secret great leaders know, and lead with love, live with purpose, and influence with humility.Are you driven to leave a lasting impact but find yourself struggling to balance humility with self-confidence?Do you long to grow as a leader, deepen your relationships, and cultivate inner peace, but feel unsure how humility fits into it all?If these questions resonate with you, don’t worry. Many people seeking growth and legacy feel this same tension. But transformation is possible, with the right tools and a fresh perspective.
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
About The Humility You Want and The World Needs and the Inspiration Behind the Book
Why Humility Matters Right Now
Humility as a Practice, Not a Concept
Ambition and Humility Can Work Together
Humble Leadership in Practice
What’s Next for Schalee Sanchez
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Schalee Sanchez is a global leader, speaker, and author with over 20 years of experience leading diverse teams across cultures and causes. Having lived and worked in five countries, she brings a rich global perspective to her work. Fierce in her belief that every person is worthy and wildly capable of impact, she equips readers to lead with humility, live with purpose, and rise into their fullest potential with courage, clarity, and compassion.
CONNECT WITH SCHALEE SANCHEZ!
WEBSITE: https://schaleesanchez.com/FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/schalee.m.sanchez/INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/schalee.sanchez/YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@schaleesanchezLINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/schalee-sanchez-7207a7181/

Jules Moves the Rug: A Story About Courage, Hope and New Adventures 
What if the things we trip over are the things we need to face?
In the middle of a small, busy house lies a big, bright, bumpy rug. Everyone steps around it: Mom, Dad, Grandma, Big Brother, and Little Sister. No one likes it, but no one dares to move it.
Until one day, Jules, curious, brave, and tired of stumbling, finally says, "That's it. It's time to move the rug."
As Jules leads her family to lift the rug for the very first time, they uncover more than anyone imagined-reminders of moments lost, lessons forgotten, and something quietly waiting to be found.
Jules Moves the Rug is a tender, thought-provoking story about courage, curiosity, and the power of facing what has been hidden. Inspired by the leadership book RUG: Move What You Are Tripping Over and Lead with H.E.A.R.T., this beautifully illustrated picture book invites children and families to talk about:
The feelings we hide and the healing that comes from sharing them
The importance of asking questions and being brave enough to listen
How love grows when we stop stepping around what's uncomfortable
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
About the book: Jules Moves the Rug uses a simple household problem to show how avoiding issues doesn’t make them disappear
The central metaphor: A rug in the middle of the home represents problems people keep stepping around instead of fixing
Why problems linger: Familiar discomfort often feels safer than change, even when it causes repeated frustration
The power of small voices: Jules, the youngest in the family, speaks up and shows that clarity doesn’t depend on age or authority
What’s under the rug: Hidden messes symbolize unresolved feelings like missed apologies, forgotten dreams, and tension
The core message: Facing problems together turns overwhelm into connection and healing
What’s next for the author: The “move the rug” idea continues through leadership work and future stories focused on honest conversations and growth
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sherry Whitaker Budziak is a speaker, writer, and entrepreneur who encourages leaders and families to find the courage to move the rugs that hold them back. Her children's book Jules Moves the Rug grew out of her own journey of resilience and personal transformation. Through this story she hopes to spark meaningful conversations that help children and the adults in their lives talk openly about change and emotional growth.
Sherry is also known for her long career guiding organizations through moments of transition. After serving in executive roles within the medical association community she founded .orgSource in 2005. Since then, she has advised hundreds of organizations as they work to strengthen strategy embrace innovation and build cultures where people can thrive. At the heart of her work is a belief that growth begins with honest reflection and the willingness to imagine new possibilities.
She is the co-author of two books on leadership and entrepreneurship and is currently writing her third. When she is not writing or speaking, she enjoys traveling trying new recipes and spending time with her family.
CONNECT WITH SHERRY WHITAKER BUDZIAK
https://rugthebook.com/
https://orgsource.com/
https://www.facebook.com/sherry.budziak
https://www.instagram.com/orgsherry/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherryb
 

HOLY DENVER
In 2009, at the height of the economic crash, Elizabeth Zwelland loses her prestigious Manhattan publishing job in the fallout from Bernie Madoff’s Ponzi scheme. Forced to move to Colorado, the home of her Beat-poet father, she takes a minimum-wage job at an indie bookstore, shelving the very books she once edited.Bitter and adrift, Elizabeth scorns her coworkers and customers—until a shocking confrontation forces her to reckon with herself. Her journey takes her through the shadows of the Columbine shooting and JonBenét Ramsey case, leading to an awakening forged in hardship and a deepening connection to the city Jack Kerouac once called Holy Denver.
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
About the Book: Holy Denver – An introduction to the novel, its second-edition release, and the story of a woman forced to rebuild her life after the 2008 financial crash.
Loss, identity, and starting over – How the sudden loss of career, home, and status exposes resentment and forces a personal reckoning.
Unlikable protagonists and emotional honesty – Why beginning with a deeply flawed main character makes meaningful transformation possible.
Privilege, class, and intellectual armor – How education and status become shields that distance people from empathy and connection.
Family legacy, neglect, and the Beat Generation – Growing up in the shadow of a famous poet father and grappling with inherited creative identity.
Compassion, shame, and self-forgiveness – Confronting harmful behavior and learning to change with honesty and empathy.
What’s Next for Florence Wetzel – Backlist re-releases, AI-narrated audiobooks, and an upcoming novel set in Crete.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Florence Wetzel was born in Brooklyn, NY. She writes in different genres, including the memoir Sara My Sara: A Memoir of Friendship and Loss. Her novels include the thriller The Woman Who Went Overboard; the Swedish mystery The Grand Man; and Dashiki: A Cozy Mystery. She has also authored horror short stories, a book of poems and memoir essays, and co-authored jazz clarinetist Perry Robinson’s autobiography. Aspasia is her latest novel, published in July 2025. 
You can learn more about Florence Wetzel and her work at https://linktr.ee/FlorenceWetzel