Inside Scoop Live!

'Darren has reached deeply into the very bottom of toilet humour.''iiieeeooo.'Humankind has one more chance, a second-last chance, to survive. We are in a lot of trouble if these zany characters are our last hope.Prison Planet accommodates the American crew, safely landing with all dubious passengers intact. An evil warden assumes the role of dictator for the planet's lifers. Crew 7 must escape the clutches of the warden and his hench . . . men/women/other. But who are the real criminals?The House of FILTH.Some still dealing with their own afflictions, the ex-psychiatric patients stumble upon an oasis on a new planet. The 'most powerful organisation in the universe' does not take kindly to strangers.In another world, on the isolated island of Retro-Tech, who or what is the unknown entity that has seized control? Climb aboard the realm-hopping transport with Arros Sole to get to the bottom of it.
Born Darren Edward Watling, Subiaco, Western Australia, 1966. Darren excelled in English, maintaining ‘A’s, throughout his schooling and wrote a play, ‘Laughing Gas’, for his school at the age of 10. Credited with a few small, published articles, Darren found inspiration and reward, arriving at his latest piece, ‘2nd Last Chance’.
He completed an apprenticeship, as a fitter, at Princess Margaret Hospital, while continuing his passion for short story writing.
Travelling Australia for three years on a private bus gave Darren a beginning to the experiences and continued, humorous outlook he has on life.
Darren approached Jill Stubbs Mills and asked for her blessing to take her short story, ‘Deception’, and rewrite it into a novel. (The feedback from Fremantle Press about her story was exceptional). Jill agreed to her son’s request. Sadly, Jill now suffers with dementia, but, laughably, keeps her sense of humour.
Various forms of employment, including a movie extra, a welder on a crocodile farm, a drummer for a touring band and currently a roof plumber, gave Darren considerable, ‘fuel’, for a comedic novel.
Darren has had several passions over the past 50 odd years while walking this Earth. Drums, Karate, Tennis and continuing today- comedic writing.
You can learn more about Darren E. Watling and his books on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/darren.watling.37/ and Instagram at  https://www.instagram.com/darren.e.watling/
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
Humor and Satire: Using comedy to critique society and shape characters.
Character Inspirations: Creating exaggerated characters with real-world influences.
Worldbuilding: Crafting absurd settings like Prison Planet and House of Filth.
Writing Process: From adapting a short story to surprising plot twists.
Audience and Reception: Targeting older readers and reactions to dark humor.
What's next for Darren Watling?

DASHIKI - A cozy mystery with a dash of romance set in the vibrant world of jazz. 
During an interview with reclusive jazz singer Betty Brown, journalist Virginia Farrell is shown priceless tapes from the iconic 1957 Thelonious Monk-John Coltrane gig at the Five Spot. When Betty is found murdered, Virginia is determined to recover the tapes and uncover the truth behind Betty’s death.
In the spirit of Nancy Drew, Virginia teams up with her six-foot blonde roommate to investigate the various suspects. Detective Robert Smith from the Hoboken Police Department joins the case, quickly becoming absorbed by an unsolved murder possibly linked to Betty Brown’s death, as well as an undeniable attraction to Virginia.
Dashiki is a cozy mystery laced with romance, immersing readers in the captivating world of jazz, where musicians, journalists, scholars, and enthusiasts intersect in an entertaining whodunit.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Florence Wetzel was born 1962 in Brooklyn, NY.  She writes in different genres, including her release Sara My Sara: A Memoir of Friendship and Loss, which was published in July 2024. Her novels include the thriller The Woman Who Went Overboard and the Swedish mystery The Grand Man. She has also authored horror short stories, a book of poems and memoir essays, and co-authored jazz clarinetist Perry Robinson's autobiography.
Learn more about Florence Wetzel and her work at https://linktr.ee/FlorenceWetzel 
 
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
From Passion to Pages: The Birth of Dashiki – The novel blends the author's background in jazz journalism with her love for Agatha Christie's mysteries. The result is a story that merges music, intrigue, and investigative storytelling.
A Mystery That Sings – At the heart of Dashiki is a set of lost jazz recordings with historical significance. When a journalist is entrusted with their return and the source is murdered, the pursuit of justice and truth takes center stage.
The Art of Reinvention – Originally self-published after years of seeking traditional publishing, Dashiki returns in a refined edition. The journey reflects perseverance in storytelling and the evolving landscape of independent publishing.
The Unexpected Magic of Cozy Mysteries – The novel captures the essence of a classic whodunit while immersing readers in the jazz world. A balance of mystery, character depth, and atmospheric settings keeps the story engaging.
A Love Letter to Jazz and Storytelling – Dashiki highlights jazz’s enduring impact while introducing the genre to new audiences. Readers unfamiliar with jazz have embraced the story, demonstrating fiction’s ability to inspire curiosity and appreciation.

THE PASSENGER
Burdened with her empathic gift, Elizabeth Reilly wants to be free of it and fit in with normal people. Nevertheless, when the spirit of an old man asks for her help, she travels across the country to help him return home. Gio Clemente is still angry with his father who abandoned him as a child. To help the father pass on, Elizabeth must persuade Gio to let go of his anger. Though he resents her intrusion, they are both stunned to find themselves fighting a profound attraction. Elizabeth can accept his headstrong brand of love, but can Gio accept her gift-and believe in her?
 
Award-winning author, Joie Lesin is a life-long fiction writer and poet. She has long been fascinated by anything otherworldly, including mermaids and ghosts. Joie writes character-driven, emotional, atmospheric tales about heartache and hope.
Originally from Massachusetts, at six years old, Joie moved to her mother's birthplace, Minnesota. By eight, Joie lost her New England accent, however, it's gradually returning as the years go by. She grew up in Minneapolis but now resides in St. Paul with her husband and their blended family—which includes a rambunctious grand-corgi.
Joie misses the ocean, but she often finds herself walking by one of Minnesota's many lakes and travels to one of the coasts as often as she can. In fact, she considers California her home away from home. When she's not writing, reading, or walking, you can find her listening to music. She absolutely loves music—especially live—and songs have sparked most of her story ideas.
To learn more about Joie Lesin and her work, visit her website at jlesin.com
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
The Story and Inspiration Behind The Passenger
The novel follows Elizabeth Riley, a young widow and empath who communicates with the dead, helping a ghost find peace.
The inspiration came from the author’s habit of playing the "what if" game, imagining stories for people she saw in real life.
Blending Historical and Supernatural Elements
The novel is set in the post-World War II era, a period the author is fascinated with.
The balance between realism and the supernatural was achieved by focusing on the emotional journeys of characters.
Themes of Loss, Healing, and Identity
Grief, resilience, and living in the present were central themes, some of which emerged organically.
Readers have responded to the book as a tool for processing their own grief.
Character Development and Symbolism in the Setting
Elizabeth’s character and empathic gift were shaped by the author’s love for supernatural stories.
The East and West Coast settings symbolize Elizabeth’s emotional journey—Boston representing grief and California signifying hope and acceptance.
The Writing Process and Future Projects
The author immerses herself in historical research through music, movies, and vintage magazines.
She is working on a follow-up novel set 20 years later on the same vineyard, with ghosts continuing to play a role in the story.
CONNECT WITH JOIE LESIN!
Website: https://www.jlesin.com
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/joielesin.bsky.social
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorjoielesin
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/JoieLesin
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@joie.lesin
 

Mutuality-the Future of Trust: The Executive's Handbook, Enabling Mutuality to Cognitively Transform Organisations
In today’s organizations and society, two major challenges stand out: declining trust and the need to adapt to increasing complexity. Research highlights a shift from judgment and dependability to relational trust, built on mutuality—principles fostering deep social bonds through care, support, and shared responsibility.
True mutuality requires cognitive evolution, not just behavioral change. After two decades of research, we've identified six archetypes that hinder relational trust, limiting safe and productive workplaces. This book offers practical strategies to navigate challenges, drive transformation, and boost organizational effectiveness.
 
Matthew Byrne is a University of Technology Sydney and Harvard graduate and works with the Australian Graduate School of Management as adjunct faculty and Program Director of the iconic General Manager's program. Matthew specialises in aligning personal strategies with corporate aspirations, equipping executives to envision and seize value through innovative leadership. He empowers leaders to navigate economic challenges proactively, optimising financial and human capital for enhanced organisational success. Matthew has been collaborating with Denis Jenkins for over 15 years in corporate education and helping dysfunctional corporations engage their people to better build corporate trust and move managers from process-thinking to strategic-thinking.
Denis Jenkins is a pioneering figure in the field of neuroplasticity, known for his innovative approach to transforming neuropathways through cognitive training. Beginning his career as an educator in the Australian school system, his passion for helping students with learning difficulties unlock their full potential led him to collaborate with Helga Rowe from the Max Planck Institute in pioneering advancements in learning acceleration and understanding learning dysfunction. Recognised with the Australian Centennial Medal for his significant contributions to learning and behavioural change, Denis continues to work with individuals ranging from high school students to CEOs, empowering disadvantaged learners to become effective leaders in both communities and organisations. The executive leadership blueprint in building trust and strong organisational cultures is the foundation of his work.
To learn more about the authors and their work visit: https://mutualitythefutureoftrust.com/
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
The Shift from Transactional to Relational TrustTraditional workplace trust is based on performance and dependability, but lasting success requires relational trust—building genuine connections, fostering vulnerability, and enabling open communication. Without relational trust, commitment and collaboration suffer.
Mutuality is the Key to Trust (Not the Other Way Around)Organizations struggle to build trust because they focus on measuring it rather than creating it. Mutuality—shared understanding and support—lays the foundation for trust. Leaders should start conversations about mutuality instead of trust, as the latter can be polarizing.
Cognitive Development Shapes Workplace RelationshipsTrust and mutuality depend on how people process information. Organizations often fail because they overlook cognitive differences in problem-solving and decision-making. Leaders must recognize and support these differences to create effective, cohesive teams.
Mutuality Requires Intentionality, Especially in Remote WorkThe pandemic proved that mutuality strengthens teams, but remote work removes the informal moments that naturally build trust. Leaders must deliberately foster mutuality by understanding who their employees are, not just what they do.
Workplace Structures and Policies Can Undermine TrustMany corporate policies and hierarchies are built on distrust, delegating tasks without granting authority. Instead of enforcing rigid structures, organizations should prioritize mutuality—encouraging responsibility, diverse thinking, and proactive problem-solving.

Eugene Hamilton, is a global speaker, educational consultant and professional development coach. His 20-year career as an educator and organizational leader has afforded him the opportunity to impact thousands of lives throughout the U.S. and internationally in such places as: England; Bermuda; Zimbabwe; the Virgin Islands and Canada.
Mr. Hamilton began his career in the Everman(TX) Independent School District and most recently served as the Director of Community & Academic Partnerships at Loma Linda University in Southern California.
As a dedicated servant leader, Mr. Hamilton has received numerous awards to include: Excellence in Community Service Award from California’s 35th Congressional District and Civilian of the Year Award from the City of North Charleston, South Carolina.
To learn more about Eugene Hamilton and his work visit his website at: www.eugenejhamilton.org. 
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
The Power of Resilience and Emotional Wellness in Kids – How Go Grow Glow addresses resilience, self-esteem, and emotional well-being, and why these lessons are crucial for young readers today.
Building Meaningful Characters – The inspiration behind Tony and Mrs. Washington, and how their stories reflect real-life experiences and challenges children face. 
The ‘Go, Grow, Glow’ Framework – The meaning behind this empowering mindset, how it’s woven into the book, and how parents and educators can apply it in everyday life.
The Impact of Go Grow Glow in Classrooms and Beyond – How the book is being used in educational settings, feedback from students and teachers, and its potential as a teaching tool for resilience and bullying awareness.
Bringing the Story to Life – The creative process behind the book’s illustrations, favorite artwork, and how visuals enhance Tony’s journey for young readers.
GO GROW GLOW
Tony is a boy who has studied very hard for his spelling test in class the next day. But the following morning on the bus ride to school, the kids are rambunctious and noisy and become annoyed when Tony won’t join in their antics. Worse, Tony is dejected when his best friend uses the opportunity to reveal to everyone a hurtful secret about Tony’s family life.
Upset and distracted, Tony understandably bombs on his test. When he confides in his teacher, she explains a set of actions that will help him through tough times: Go boldly—always think positive and believe in himself. Grow broadly—be open to learning new things. Glow brightly—never forget he is a bright light in the world.
CONNECT WITH EUGENE HAMILTON!
https://www.eugenejhamilton.org/
https://www.instagram.com/eugenejhamilton/
https://www.facebook.com/1eugenehamilton/
https://www.youtube.com/@eugenejhamilton
https://www.tiktok.com/@eugenejhamilton?_t=8lFtFJ1bpdP&_r=1/
https://x.com/eugenejhamilton/

Sepehr Haddad is the author of two acclaimed novels. His latest release, The Harmless Necessary Cat (2024), became a #1 Amazon Bestseller in the History of Iran category and earned the prestigious HFC E.M. Forster Gold Medal. His debut novel, A Hundred Sweet Promises, won the 2023 American Fiction Awards for Historical Fiction and Historical Romance and was a #1 Amazon Bestseller in Middle Eastern Literature and Historical Russian Fiction. Beyond writing, Sepehr is also a Universal Music Group recording artist and part of the Billboard chart-topping duo Shahin & Sepehr.
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION:
The Inspiration Behind The Harmless Necessary Cat
Tehran During World War II: A Rarely Explored Setting
Revealing Iran’s Lesser-Known Role in World War II
Crafting Authentic Characters and Emotional Depth
Recreating the Atmosphere of Wartime Tehran
What’s next for Sepehr Haddad?
THE HARMLESS NECESSARY CAT
- Winner of the 2024 E.M. Forster Gold Medal for Middle Eastern Historical Fiction.Tehran, 1941. The world is ablaze, but in neutral Iran, life carries on—until British and Russian tanks roll in.Though much has been written about World War II, little is known of Iran's trials during the conflict. Many remember the Japanese surprise assault on Pearl Harbor, epitomizing deceitful warfare, just as Operation Barbarossa, Hitler's treacherous invasion of the Soviet Union, played a parallel tune of unexpected aggression. While these events captivated global attention, the Allies launched a sneak attack on Iran, seeking to secure crucial supply lines and curb the growing threat of German influence. Overnight, the lives of ordinary Iranian families, like the Ahangars, are thrown into chaos.Inspired by a true story, Sepehr Haddad's The Harmless Necessary Cat weaves a powerful narrative of love, loss, and resilience. This mesmerizing tale depicts innocent lives caught in history's crosshairs, offering a poignant testament to the enduring power of hope and perseverance in the face of war.
CONNECT WITH THE AUTHOR!
Website: https://sepehrhaddad.com/ 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sepehr-haddad-772819208/
X: https://x.com/HaddadSepehr
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sepehrmusic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sepehrhaddadmusic
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sepehrhaddad?lang=en
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCe70-UNhrVGLvIWdzgMasXQ/videos

LYNN GALLANT BLACKBURN
In December 2005, Paula Gallant, a 36-year-old mother and grade three teacher, was tragically murdered in Halifax. This devastating loss changed the course of Lynn's life.
Inspired by Paula's life and legacy, Lynn Gallant Blackburn is determined to find purpose in her sister's untimely death.  Lynn advocates for victims' rights, raises awareness about the impacts of violent crime, and actively works to end men's violence against women and girls. Through her personal experiences, she seeks to offer comfort and insight to other victims of domestic violence, reminding them they are not alone.
From a victim's perspective, she provides insight about her experience to politicians, the Nova Scotia Department of Justice, the public, the media and any other forum which gives victims a voice. She has presented her finding and recommendations to the Nova Scotia Department of Justice; The Canadian Criminal Justice Congress and she has been published in the 2009 National Victims of Crime Resource Guide with a feature called "How one victim of murder chose to be a survivor". She has been instrumental in influencing policy and legislative change in Nova Scotia and continues to create awareness about violence against women and the rights and needs of victims. 
For almost twenty years, Lynn has carried this story within her heart. On, December 5th, 2024, it would have been Paula's 55 birthday, and the day Lynn chose to release her new book called For the Love of My Sister, which has been published with generous support from Connect Women's Centres of Nova Scotia. Through her book, Lynn not only shares her personal story of loss but also serves as a voice for countless others impacted by domestic violence. Her work offers a unique and in-depth look at the systemic issues that survivors face, highlighting the need for societal change and support.
CORA COLE
Like many women, Cora cherishes her various roles in life, including daughter, friend, wife and Mum. She has spent nearly 20 years working in healthcare and the non-profit sector. While travel and hiking are favourite pastimes, cooking and baking edible food remain mysterious skills she has yet to master.  Thankfully, her writing is something others seem to enjoy.
 
For more information visit: https://womenconnect.ca/book-launch-gallant/
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION:
The Personal Journey of Lynn and Paula: Exploring their bond, shared experiences, and the vivid memories that shaped their lives together.
Transforming Grief into Advocacy: Lynn's strength in pushing for justice and improving support systems for victims' families.
The Fight Against Gender-Based Violence: Insights from Cora's work and the broader societal conversation influenced by Paula's story.
Justice System Challenges and Reforms: Key obstacles and the changes needed to better support victims' families and prevent violence against women.
Paula’s Legacy and Looking Forward: How sharing her story inspires societal change and what’s next for Lynn in her journey.
FOR THE LOVE OF MY SISTER
The overwhelming sense of gratitude and love I felt at Thanksgiving, surrounded by my two sisters, their husbands and our five children, allowed me to finally exhale. With a sense of unimaginable contentment I finally let go of the breath I was holding since my parents died. This pure love carried me straight through to Christmas, until murder entered our lives.This is a true story about how love never gives up. This is Paula Gallant's legacy.

KJ Fieler is known for her exceptional storytelling and captivating narratives. She's won multiple awards, including:​
Literary Titan Gold
Firebird Award for Women's Issues and Weird Genre
2023 Historical Fiction Company, 5-star Reader's Choice and Silver Award for Fantasy
The 20th Annual "Best Book" Awards, Finalist
Reader's Favorite, 5-star Reader's Choice and Finalist​
 She also hosts Writer 2 Writer, an enlightening YouTube author spotlight show. Through this platform, she delves into the lives and works of fellow authors, shedding light on their creative processes and showcasing their latest works. 
Fieler's award-winning debut novel, "Shadow Runner" is the first installment in a thrilling three-book Victorian Adventure series which plunges readers into an exhilarating world of mystery and intrigue. "Shadow Hunter," the highly anticipated second book in the Shadow Series, is set to debut in December of 2024.
LEARN MORE ABOUT KJ FIELER AND HER WORK: https://www.kjfieler.com/
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
About Shadow Runner and the inspiraton for the story
Exploring Ada's journey from aristocrat to assassin, her changing views on freedom, and the societal and moral challenges she faces.
The integration of Victorian elements with steampunk innovation and the supernatural, including world-building and the setting's unique atmosphere.
How Ada's relationships reflect Victorian and modern power structures, as well as the deeper truths and societal norms challenged in the story.
Insights into the series' trajectory, potential developments in book two, and any hints about upcoming projects.
SHADOW RUNNER by KJ Fieler
Born to aristocracy, Ada will marry and never want for anything, except freedom. An unearthly visitor and a series of seemingly supernatural events unexpectedly deliver her from the mundane. But no one could have predicted the darkness that comes with it. Taken in and raised by a secret society, Ada is groomed as an assassin. As she comes of age, she must become a predator, targeting members of the very nobility to which she was born... or try to escape. But if she leaves, she risks the lives of the two she loves most... her adopted sister... and her captor.
CONNECT WITH KJ FIELER!
https://www.kjfieler.com/
https://www.facebook.com/kat.fieler/
https://www.youtube.com/@KatFieler
https://www.instagram.com/katfieler/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553066355617