Inside Scoop Live!

THIS IS ME
Luke Corbett, a young man who spent most of his life in Canberra, has recently returned to his hometown of Gamarra, a small rural community in the heart of New South Wales. Struggling to find his footing in a place that feels both familiar and alien, Luke is confronted with long-buried emotions when a childhood friend reappears. His deep feelings for this man, however, clash with the conservative values of the town. As whispers and judgement threaten to overshadow his life, Luke must choose: will he suppress his true self to conform or confront the prejudice around him and embrace the life he was meant to live?
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
Inspiration and Writing Journey. Aspen’s personal experiences and how the isolation of COVID sparked the story.
Identity and Belonging. Luke’s struggle to live authentically in a small rural town.
Family Legacy. The pressure of living up to his grandfather’s achievements and values.
Community Acceptance vs. Rejection. The tension between tradition and embracing change.
What’s Next. Plans for the sequel and trilogy: This Is Us and This Is Where We Belong.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Aspen Thomas grew up in the small western Riverina town of Goolgowi, where the vast landscapes and vibrant community life shaped his early imagination. After moving to Canberra for high school, Aspen continued to nurture his passion for storytelling, drawing inspiration from the world around him. As a child, he loved weaving tales about farm machinery that came to life, setting the stage for a lifetime of creative exploration.A passionate tennis player, Aspen has played since childhood and competes in his tennis club's championships every year. Inspired by tennis greats like Ashleigh Barty, his love for the sport parallels his dedication to education. Aspen has been teaching science and mathematics since 2016, bringing his curiosity and enthusiasm to the classroom.Aspen's debut novel, This Is Me!, was born during the isolating days of the Covid years, while he was locked down in his two-bedroom apartment. Deeply personal yet fictionalised, the story reflects his experiences growing up gay and autistic with ADHD in a small rural community. With an overactive imagination and a determination to share his unique perspective, Aspen creates heartfelt, relatable narratives that resonate with readers.When not writing or teaching, Aspen can be found on the tennis court, exploring new ideas, or championing authenticity and representation in storytelling.
CONNECT WITH ASPEN THOMAS!
Website: https://aspenthomas-writes.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aspenthomaswrites/ 
 

Fungus Theory of Conscious Growth - A Radical Biological Origin Story Linking Fungi, Evolution, and Humanity's Cosmic DestinyWhat if all complex life—plants, animals, and even humans—are just branches of a vast, ancient fungal network?In Fungus Theory of Conscious Growth, a groundbreaking theory is explored: that all multicellular life evolved from fungi, and that humanity may be the conscious spore of this planetary organism—poised to spread beyond Earth itself.Drawing from evolutionary biology, paleontology, and astrobiology, this book presents a compelling scientific case that fungi were the first multicellular organisms on Earth. Over time, they diversified, branching into the plant and animal kingdoms. This interconnected lineage suggests a unifying fungal ancestry—and redefines the way we see life on Earth.As humans explore space and prepare to colonize other worlds, we may be participating in a deeper biological imperative—spreading life beyond Earth as fungal spores once colonized land.
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
Fungus Theory and Human Purpose
Technology as a Survival Mechanism
The Science 
The Role of Storytelling and Emotion
Cosmic Urgency and Existential Risk
 
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mark L. Christensen is a lifelong explorer of ideas, driven by a deep curiosity about cosmology, physiology, and sociology. With a passion for connecting science, creativity, and big-picture thinking, Mark has spent decades developing insights and innovations that challenge conventional boundaries. His work invites us to rethink how we grow, evolve, and understand our place in the universe.
Learn more about Mark and his work at https://marklchristensen.com/
Read an extended interview with Mark L. Christensen: https://readerviews.com/reviews/meet-the-author-christensen-fungus-theory-of-conscious-growth/
 
 

THE PYJAMA BOY
Steven Murphy spent his formative years in Sydney's Redfern. Abandoned by his mother when only weeks old, his father left him in the care of a cruel, alcoholic stepmother while he himself was in jail. Unbelievably, the child they dubbed the "Pyjama Boy" fought his way through life to achieve his ultimate goal. His story is a poignant and haunting one that captivates its reader from the very beginning and remains long after the book has been closed.AN INSPIRATIONAL TALE OF SUCCESS AGAINST THE ODDS . . .
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION:
Childhood Abuse and TraumaStephen discusses his harrowing upbringing—abandonment, neglect, and physical/emotional abuse by a stepmother—with raw honesty. These experiences form the foundation of The Pajama Boy memoir.
Resilience and TransformationA major theme is how he overcame adversity through perseverance, military service, and eventually becoming a police officer. He emphasizes self-worth, emotional growth, and the importance of breaking cycles.
Emotional Honesty and VulnerabilityStephen reflects on shame, emotional wounds, lost relationships, and the impact of unresolved trauma. He explains his decision to be candid rather than paint himself as a hero and why that matters to him and his readers.
The Book’s Evolution and Re-releaseHe shares why he originally wrote The Pajama Boy, why he’s re-releasing it with updates, and how feedback led to changes—particularly the shift from third-person narration to first-person in the sequel for deeper personal connection.
Sequel and Multimedia IntegrationThe upcoming sequel is discussed in detail—its emotional intensity, inclusion of reflections from family members, and the innovative use of video footage tied to book chapters to enhance reader engagement.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Steven Murphy is an Australian author and speaker, whose book The Pyjama Boy offers a raw, unfiltered account of surviving a childhood marked by abandonment, abuse, and neglect. Once known on the streets of Redfern as “the boy in the crumpled pyjamas,” Steven overcame extraordinary adversity to serve in the military, become a police officer, and later, a nationally sought-after speaker.
First released nearly two decades ago and now reintroduced with new reflections, The Pyjama Boy is a powerful reminder that trauma does not define a person—how they respond to it does. Today, Steven speaks at schools, youth centers, and community events across Australia, using real photos, documents, and unsparing honesty to connect with audiences and spark conversations about resilience, identity, and hope.
CONNECT WITH STEVEN MURPHY!
Website: https://thepyjamaboy.com/You Tube: www.youtube.com/@thepjboycom Facebook Author: https://www.facebook.com/stevenmurphyauthor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevenjohnmurphyTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.pyjama.boy

CICERO JAMES, MIRACLE WORKER
My name is Cicero James, and I died last Thursday.I know how it sounds, and the rest of what I have to tell you is just going to make it worse. But it's true. I died, and I came back. And the rest of it—why it happened, what it means, and most importantly what we’re going to have to do about it—is what I need you to hear.I’m going to start at the beginning, and I’m going to tell all of this as faithfully as possible. I’m going to try to bring you along for the ride. It’s all coming out in a rush, so if I don’t tell it quite right, or if I muff a word or use bad grammar or something, try not to hold it against me.And if I don’t manage to convince you… I understand. No harm, no foul, no hard feelings. This is all insane to anyone who hasn't lived it. But if you're in, then you’re in, and here we go.
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
Overview of the Story and InspirationDiscussion of Cicero James, Miracle Worker's premise, including the protagonist's role as a modern miracle worker, and how the story was built around the opening line about dying multiple times.
World-Building and Magic SystemExploration of the parallel society of workers, the concept of “workings,” the nature of terrors, and how belief shapes reality in this urban fantasy world.
Character Development and VoiceFocus on Cicero’s personality, tattoos, sense of humor, relationships, and how these elements reveal different facets of his identity and emotional depth.
Themes of Mental Health and TraumaConversation around how childhood trauma opens the door to magical abilities, and how Cicero’s personal struggles influence his role as a protector of the “blissful” (non-magical people).
Series Continuation and Reader ReactionsTalk about feedback from readers, unexpected interpretations (including political ones), and what’s planned for the next book in the series.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Hal Emerson is the author of ten books, including the award-winning Exile Trilogy, beginning with The Prince of Ravens. He is a graduate of UCLA with a BA in theatre, where he studied Shakespeare, Chekhov, and the Greek and Roman Classics. He also has an MBA from UC Berkeley (Cal).
Some of his favorite books and series include East of Eden, The Brothers Karamazov, The Lord of the Rings, and The Wheel of Time. As a young reader he was particularly inspired by The Chronicles of Prydain, and he is an avid Harry Potter fan.
He still believes in the Oxford comma, and he has seen every Robin Williams movie.
CONNECT WITH HAL EMERSON!
https://www.halemerson.com
https://www.instagram.com/halemerson/
https://x.com/halemersonauth

Marketing is more than just strategies and sales—it's a means to connect, inspire, and create positive change. In Harnessing Purpose: A Marketer’s Guide to Inspiring Connection, Melissa Fors Shackelford draws from her 25 years of experience as a marketing executive to explore the transformative power of purpose-driven marketing. This insightful guide challenges business leaders and marketers to think beyond the bottom line, emphasizing the importance of aligning personal and organizational purposes. Melissa’s actionable advice reveals how authentic brands inspire loyalty, build deeper connections, and achieve long-term success. Key chapters cover essential topics, including finding professional purpose, fostering creativity, balancing work-life dynamics, embracing inclusive and ethical marketing, and crafting strategies that reflect a brand's core values. Melissa also delves into cause marketing, effective team collaboration, and building resilience in modern marketing challenges. Packed with inspiring real-world examples and practical advice, Harnessing Purpose is a roadmap for professionals seeking to make an impact through their work.
Whether you're launching a startup, managing a small business, or leading a marketing team, this book will equip you with the tools to unlock creativity, foster meaningful connections, and lead with authenticity. If you’re ready to transform your marketing approach and build a purpose-driven brand, Harnessing Purpose is the guide you’ve been waiting for.
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION:
Aligning personal and brand purpose to create meaningful marketing.
Building authenticity and trust through values-driven branding.
Leading purpose-driven teams to foster collaboration and engagement.
Practicing inclusive, accessible, and ethical marketing.
Combating burnout and sustaining creativity through purposeful work.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Melissa Fors Shackelford is a trusted advisor to executives and emerging businesses, helping organizations build compelling brands, accelerate market growth, and navigate the complexities of the healthcare industry. With over 20 years of experience as a marketing executive, Melissa brings deep expertise in go-to-market strategy, brand positioning, and growth marketing to her consulting practice, Shackelford Strategies.
As a sought-after consultant and advisor, Melissa partners with C-Suite leaders, startups, and established healthcare brands to refine messaging, strengthen market positioning, and drive customer engagement. She provides hands-on guidance to help businesses launch new offerings, enter new markets, and scale sustainably. 
Melissa is a recognized thought leader in marketing and brand strategy. She is a frequent industry speaker, podcast guest, and contributor to leading publications, covering topics such as purpose-driven marketing, inclusive communications, and branding. Her expertise has earned her prestigious honors, including Nonprofit Marketer of the Year (American Marketing Association, 2019).
Melissa holds an MBA in Marketing from the University of St. Thomas and a BA from the University of Minnesota. She serves on multiple industry and corporate boards. 
CONNECT WITH MELISSA FORS SHACKELFORD!
Website: https://harnessingpurpose.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HarnessingPurpose/# Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harnessing_purpose LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mfors/

SWIPE: A TWISTY PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER
Sonya's fed up with bad internet dates. But she never meant to kill anyone.
After a stressful day at work and a creepy first meetup, Sonya Romano goes on a mission: teach a lesson to the smarmy guys she's meeting on her dating app. But when one of them falls to his death as a result of her confrontation--a married man posing as a single guy--she realizes she's gone too far.
Meanwhile, Jake Parker, former Pulitzer nominee, has hit rock bottom. His boss gives him an assignment: go under cover and produce a click bait story about dating apps. Things start to look up when another married man on the app is murdered, and Jake suspects that there may be a serial killer targeting cheaters.
With Jake hot on her trail, Sonya races to cover her tracks, until they finally meet. Fighting a powerful mutual attraction but suspicious of each other, neither of them know that a deranged psychopath is closer than they think, and much more of a danger than either of them realizes.
Can they figure out what's going on, before one of them is next?
 
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
How Swipe Was Born – The story’s inspiration, how Bonnie Traymore and R.G. Belsky teamed up, and what made their co-writing process successful.
Crafting Complex Characters – Building emotionally rich, flawed protagonists (Sonya and Jake), and how their arcs were shaped through collaboration.
Modern Dating & Deception – Exploring the risks, absurdities, and emotional fallout of dating app culture, and how it mirrors broader social disconnection.
Blending Thriller with Dark Humor – Striking a balance between suspense and satire, and navigating how far is “too far” in both tone and theme.
Launch Buzz & What’s Next – Early reader reactions, the book’s success on NetGalley, and a peek at each author’s upcoming solo projects and thoughts on a sequel.
 
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
R.G. Belsky is an award-winning author of crime fiction and a journalist in New York City. Belsky has published more than 20 novels—most of them set in the New York city media world where he has had a long career as a top editor at the New York Post, New York Daily News, Star magazine and NBC News. He also writes thrillers under the name Dana Perry. And he is a contributing writer for The Big Thrill magazine as well as BookTrib.
Learn more about RG Belsky at www.rgbelsky.com
 
Bonnie Traymore is the Amazon charts bestselling author of eight domestic/psychological thrillers. Her thrillers feature strong but relatable female protagonists who peel back the layers of suburban American life and give readers a peek inside. The plots explore difficult topics such as jealousy, infidelity, murder, and the impact of psychological disorders, but she also includes bits of romance and humor to lighten the mood from time to time. 
Bonnie loves Hitchcock movies, psychological thriller novels, coffee, and dark chocolate, not necessarily in that order and sometimes simultaneously. She has a doctorate in United States history and resides in Honolulu with her family. She’s an active member of International Thriller Writers and Mystery Writers of America.
Learn more about Bonnie Traymore at www.bonnietraymore.com.

SHATTERED CHILD: I was born in Sri-Lanka in 1973. I was adopted and brought to Australia with my presumed biological sister in 1976. My story is one of strength, courage, and sadness, of a girl trying to fit in somewhere in this world.Adopted twice and then removed from a home twice, I was physically, mentally, emotionally and sexually abused. I was bullied as a child and attacked as a teenager. I had great things happen to me and I had the worst. I tried to be strong and sometimes I tried to give up. I was lost in my own world and at times could see no way out of it. I found support in very few people, and the ones who I thought should have supported me were the ones who hurt me the most. My trust in people vanished.When I no longer lived in the family home, I found people who supported me. I had to learn to trust that they wouldn't hurt me and that they in fact loved me, scars and all. I had to become a strong, independent woman and learn to live my life the way I wanted to, and understand that no one has the right to harm me in any shape or form.I wrote this memoir in anticipation of people reading it and seeing that there is hope for those who have struggled or are still struggling in their lives. Take each day as it comes, the good and the bad.
 
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sumie Filmer is now in her early fifties, happily married to the man who changed her life. She and her husband live in Queensland, Australia, and together they have two adult children in their late twenties. Though her earlier years were marked by deep pain and sadness, and she continues to have difficult days, a diagnosis of complex PTSD and anxiety has given her clarity. It helped her understand that her thoughts and emotions are shaped by the trauma she experienced. Healing remains an ongoing process, but the unwavering support of her loving husband, close friends, and a dedicated therapist has played a significant role in her journey forward. “Shattered Child” is her writing debut.
LEARN MORE about Sumie Filmer and her work: https://sumiefilmerauthor.com/
 
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
Childhood Trauma and Abuse – Adoption, abandonment, and prolonged abuse shaped Sumie’s early life and the core of her memoir.
Survival and Resilience – She describes coping through small acts like stretching food, singing, and dancing, which helped her endure extreme circumstances.
Healing and Mental Health – A suicide attempt, later therapy, and a complex PTSD diagnosis marked turning points in her emotional recovery.
Trust and Relationships – Gradually rebuilding trust through safe relationships, especially with her husband, while acknowledging her struggle with forgiveness.
Purpose and Impact of the Memoir – Written to give voice to survivors, call out systemic failures, and inspire hope; readers have reached out in gratitude.
 
CONNECT WITH SUMIE FILMER!
Website: https://sumiefilmerauthor.com/
 
Social Media Links:
Facebook, Shattered Child - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?
id=61570987663484
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/shatteredchild/

TRAFFIC OF A LIE
Oppression, deceit, love and greed.  Adeline is devastated at the news that her beloved mother has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer in its advanced stages. Discombobulated at her mother's refusal to receive any form of treatment, no matter how much her and her sister Penelope plead her to re-consider, the two girls are shattered when their mother takes her final breath. But this is just the beginning of Adeline's turmoil. The reading of the will sets in motion a thickly woven web of deceit and lies that will rock Adeline to her very core, forcing her to question the essence of her existence and the foundations of the basis of all that she has known throughout her life.Traversing different countries, spanning across two generations, patriarchal societal beliefs and the complexities of the human character, love may not always conquer, but ultimately the truth will.
 
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Angela Nagel lives in the picturesque Barossa Valley located in South Australia with her husband James and their cheeky and talkative Sulphur Crested Cockatoo Basil. Three adult children and their partners complete their family. Angela has enjoyed a fulfilling career spanning over four decades helping operate their family owned bakery business. She enjoys travelling, with a particular interest in experiencing different cultures and languages. An avid reader for as long as she can remember, Angela has always held an interest in writing. Traffic of a Lie is her debut novel.
Learn more about Angela and her work at https://angelanagelauthor.com/
 
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
Overview and Inspiration Behind Traffic of a Lie
What the story is about, the inspiration behind it, and how the idea evolved into a novel.
Character Development and Emotional Themes
Deep dive into Adeline and Yasmina’s emotional journeys, the complexity of mother-daughter relationships, betrayal, grief, identity crisis, resilience, and how characters navigate societal pressures.
Generational Oppression, Patriarchal Systems, and Gender Inequality
How systemic control, traditions, and silence impact women across generations; drawing parallels between past and present struggles for women's autonomy and voice.
Structural and Storytelling Choices
Use of dual timelines, balancing emotional devastation with hope, the symbolism behind the book’s title, and decisions around what to reveal versus what to leave uncertain.
Reader Reactions and Future Projects
How readers have responded to the story, the kinds of conversations it sparks about family, silence, and healing, and Angela Nagel’s plans to write a psychological thriller as her next book.