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RUG: HOW TO MOVE WHAT YOU'RE TRIPPING OVER AND LEAD WITH H.E.A.R.T. What if the biggest obstacle to your success isn't your team, your competition, or even the economy? What if it’s the invisible rug you keep tripping over? We all have rugs. Outdated habits trip us up. Silent expectations catch us off guard. Limiting beliefs go unquestioned for years. These hidden barriers sabotage our progress in life and leadership until disruption finally forces us to confront them. RUG reveals how to uncover the patterns holding you back. You'll discover how to move beyond mere survival and lead with clarity, courage, and purpose. This book centers around the H.E.A.R.T. Powered Leadership™ framework: Humanize, Empower, Ascend, Reimagine, Transform. It offers both deeply personal insights and practical guidance for leading with empathy, resilience, and vision. TOPICS OF CONVERSATION LEARN MORE AT: https://rugthebook.com/ and https://orgsource.com/ ABOUT THE AUTHORS SHERRY WHITAKER BUDZIAK is an award-winning entrepreneur, author, and visionary strategist who helps organizations 10X their productivity by aligning people, process, technology, and purpose. As the founder and CEO of .orgSource, Sherry has spent two decades guiding more than 350 organizations to reimagine how they work, integrating human potential with the power of AI to unlock growth, innovation, and impact. Recently honored with the Valparaiso University Alumni Achievement Award and Association Trends Award, Sherry is celebrated for her rare ability to translate bold strategy into measurable results. She’s led digital transformations long before it was a buzzword—launching one of the first association websites, navigating Y2K, leading teams through the dot-com era, and shaping the future of online engagement. Her expertise blends deep technological insight with a human-centered approach that empowers teams to thrive in the age of intelligent automation. A trailblazer in the association and nonprofit world, Sherry co-founded .orgCommunity, a dynamic network that connects leaders, inspires collaboration, and accelerates innovation across the sector. Her influence extends beyond consulting—she’s a frequent keynote speaker, podcast host, and thought leader whose message inspires leaders to lead with both head and heart. Sherry is the co-author of RUG: Move What You’re Tripping Over and Lead with HEART, where she shares her transformative H.E.A.R.T. Powered Leadership® Method—Humanize, Empower, Ascend, Reimagine, Transform—helping leaders turn disruption into growth and courage into strategy. She also co-authored the acclaimed Association 4.0® book series, which redefined what it means to lead in an era of rapid change. With over 30 years at the intersection of technology and leadership, Sherry’s mission is clear: to help organizations move faster, think smarter, and lead with heart in a world where AI and humanity must rise together. KEVIN G. ORDONEZ has been dedicated to serving the association community as a vendor partner, volunteer, speaker, author and consultant for over two decades. Throughout his career, he has focused on successfully developing and implementing digital strategy as critical for a comprehensive approach to advance the cause of associations. As .orgSource’s technology lead, Kevin works with clients to envision their digital future and then guides them through the process of achieving the vision. Whether developing a digital strategy, creating a multi-year technology roadmap, focusing on a specific system implementation, or undertaking a performance improvement project, Kevin draws upon insights that can only come from someone who has the hands-on experience of working for an association, as well as the entrepreneurial spirit of a founder of leading association management software companies. In total Kevin has served thousands of associations, providing technology insight, product development, implementation methodologies and strategic...

THE BOOK OF LOST INNOCENCE Nine dark, unforgettable tales of magic, love, honour, sacrifice and the blood-soaked cost of a happy ending. A queen of the damned will burn the world to find true love. A scarred woman trades her soul for fleeting beauty. A young woman scales a forbidden hill to slay her fears. A loyal warrior risks everything when he falls for the Emperor’s bride. And five more haunting journeys where innocence is not just lost...it’s torn away. If you love dark fantasy with a heart of tragedy—where fairy tales twist into nightmares and the choices we make define who (or what) we become—this collection is for you. TOPICS OF CONVERSATION ABOUT THE AUTHOR Born in Mississauga, I am a writer, creator, and novelist. Best known for co-writing 40 Acres with R.T. Thorne, a post-apocalyptic film set in a future where food is scarce, and a family has to defend their homestead from an organized militia. The film premiered at TIFF 2024 and was widely praised by critics, including The Hollywood Reporter, Variety, and Playback. I've been writing and creating for most of my life. I started in animation and comics, but then shifted to my second love—design. I became a creative director and a business owner. But I never let go of my first love of creating and writing. I published my first book, The Book of Lost Innocence, the same year my film 40 Acres premiered in theatres. The book has won a few awards, including the Independent Press Award and Reader Views in four categories (Short Story collections/Anthologies, Regional Winner, The Autocrit Emerging Writer Award and The Inside Scoop Live Award for Most Innovative Short Story Collection), and 40 Acres has won many awards as well as being nominated for the Canadian Screen Awards for Best Original Screenplay. I love almost every genre, but my favourite is science fiction and fantasy. I don't think I can stop creating or writing. It's a function of my being and something I cannot excise even if I wanted to. So, I might as well embrace it and continue to make incredible, entertaining things for people to enjoy. CONNECT WITH GLENN TAYLOR Website: https://www.andthenwhathappened.net/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glenntaylor/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/glenn.taylor.3591267/ Get the book: https://amzn.to/4sLAkaV

JR VERSUS STINKY DUMPING GROUND Twelve-year-old JR is convinced the toxic dump next door killed his sister—and no one will listen. If JR fails, the danger won’t stop with his family—it could destroy the entire neighborhood. The adults say he is wrong. They say keep quiet. They say let them handle it. But JR has watched them do nothing for years. So, he is taking matters into his own hands. With help from his friends, a school project that becomes an investigation, and a heart that refuses to give up, JR sets out on a mission to expose the truth. Fueled by courage, determination, and a heart that refuses to give up, JR sets out on a mission that seems impossible: “Stinky Dumping Ground has got to go!” But can one kid really take on something so big? Can kids make a difference and get environmental justice? JR Versus Stinky Dumping Ground is about community activism inspired by kids. An enjoyable read for adults. A must-read for kids. TOPICS OF CONVERSATION ABOUT THE AUTHOR Ellis Brown grew up surrounded by stories, the kind his uncles told with flair and detail, the kind that stick with you. Now he tells his own. A debut novelist and children's book author, Brown writes across genres with a consistent thread: characters navigating big stakes, real-world issues, and the complicated question of who the heroes really are. By day, Brown works as a Business Advisor at the Pace University Small Business Development Center, where he has spent two decades helping entrepreneurs turn ideas into reality, not unlike what he does on the page. Learn more about R. Ellis Brown and his work - Connect with him at: Website: www.rellisbrown.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r.ellis.brown/ Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/rellisbrown.bsky.social

Bring One Home: A Memoir of Boyhood, Basketball, and Hometown Spirit In the 1960s, the biggest dream for many young boys across the Upper Peninsula of Michigan was to play for their high school basketball team. In the small town of Bessemer, this meant one thing: wearing the blue and gold of the Speedboys. The two obstacles standing in every young Bessemer boy's way were bitter winters of endless snow and a padlock on the doors to the only good gym in town. One day, when a young inexperienced coach is hired to lead the team, the Speedboys' usual aspirations of winning championships suddenly become far humbler: they merely want to win a single game. Mired in an epic losing streak, the team's declining fortunes come to mirror those of the town itself. Iron ore mines are shuttered. Jobs are lost. And the Speedboys' losses start piling up. What transpires is nothing less than a test of the town's soul and the character of its people. Bring One Home is an irresistible trip back to the days when kids played basketball on snow-covered driveways, drank chocolate malts at the Tip Top Cafe, and folks got their news in the local barbershop. Told from the viewpoint of a young, anxious boy striving to fulfill the expectations set forth by the adults in his life, this is an underdog story as heartwarming as it is at times heartbreaking. Filled with historical insights and laugh-out-loud moments, Bring One Home is a tribute to the author's beloved hometown and their undeniable determination to win. TOPICS OF CONVERSATION: ABOUT THE AUTHOR Thomas L. Pelissero grew up in Bessemer, a small town nestled in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Drawing on his roots, he shared the spirit and history of his hometown in his debut book, “Bring One Home: A Memoir of Boyhood, Basketball and Hometown Spirit.” As a natural storyteller with a flair for humor, Thomas delights friends and family with vivid tales from his youth and the community that shaped him. His book has won a bronze medal in the North American Book Awards, named a Finalist in the Best Book Awards, and his memoir was placed into the Congressional Record in the U.S. House of Representatives on January 21, 2026 and is on the shelf in the Library of Congress. He has donated his net proceeds from sales of his book “Bring One Home” to support literacy in libraries and schools in Michigan and Wisconsin. Thomas earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University of St. Thomas and an MBA from Concordia University, both located in St. Paul, Minnesota. He dedicated 18 years to the broadcasting industry, where he made a notable impact. Thomas’s work with popular artists in the 1980s was recognized with two Gold Records and one Platinum Record. In 1991, Thomas transitioned to a corporate marketing in St. Paul until his retirement in 2017. That same year, he founded the Erwin Township Historical Society, serving as its President. Under his leadership, the Society was recognized in 2025 by the Michigan Historical Society as the Best Local Historical Society in the state. Thomas is married to Joy, and together they have five children and twelve grandchildren. The couple shares a love for outdoor adventures, hiking, biking, and fishing—and cherishes time spent with family and exploring history. Learn more about Thomas L. Peliserro and his work at: https://www.thomaslpelissero.com/ Get the book: https://amzn.to/4tHXlMK

EMPOWERED WEIGHT LOSS Are You Gaining Weight Despite Doing Everything Right? The Truth About Perimenopause Weight Loss That Your Doctor Isn't Telling You If you're a woman over 40 struggling with unexplained weight gain, crushing fatigue, sleepless nights, and mood swings—despite eating well and exercising regularly—this book reveals why traditional weight loss advice fails women in perimenopause and menopause, and what actually works. The Hidden Truth: It's Not Your Willpower. It's Your Hormones. This is the exact strategy we've used to help over 1,800 women achieve remarkable results: not only with weight loss, but also with reversing their most debilitating symptoms and feeling like themselves again. We've discovered that 5 specific hormone imbalances sabotage weight loss efforts during perimenopause and menopause. Most women have 2-4 of these imbalances simultaneously—which explains why "eat less, exercise more" stopped working after age 40. TOPICS OF CONVERSATION ABOUT THE AUTHORS SARAH GIBSON is a Physician Associate, author, speaker, and fierce advocate for women's health. Certified by the American College of Lifestyle Medicine in using food and nutrition to reverse chronic disease, she is the founder of Vitality Health Matrix and the medical architect behind The Matrix Method — a comprehensive hormone optimization protocol that has helped over 1,800 women lose an average of 22.7 pounds in 90 days. Sarah is an associate producer and featured medical expert in Balance: A Perimenopause Journey, now available on Apple TV and Amazon Prime, and co-author of Empowered Weight Loss. She delivers the results women have been told are impossible. Credentials: MPAS (Master of Physician Associate Studies) | PA-C (National Board Certified Physician Associate) | Certified by the American College of Lifestyle Medicine | HWC (Health & Wellness Coach) ABBEY WALSH is a Certified Nutrition Specialist, author, speaker, and nationally recognized expert in personalized nutrition, advanced supplementation, and hormone optimization for women in midlife. As co-founder of Vitality Health Matrix and co-creator of The Matrix Method, Abbey brings 15+ years of expertise in fitness and functional nutrition — including proprietary women. She is the co-author of Empowered Weight Loss and a nationally recognized speaker on the intersection of nutrition, supplementation, and hormone health. Abbey's work goes far beyond standard nutritional counseling — she delivers results that diet and exercise alone simply can't achieve. Credentials: MS (Master of Science in Nutrition) | CNS (Certified Nutrition Specialist®) | LDN (Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist) | Fitness Expert (CPT, CGFI, & RTY200) You can learn more about Sarah and Abbey and their work at Company website: https://vitalityhealthmatrix.com/ Book website: https://empoweredweightlossbook.com/ CONNECT WITH THE SARAH GIBSON AND ABBEY WALSH! Sarah Gibson @sarahgibsoncoaching Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahgibsoncoaching/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sarahgibsoncoaching YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SarahGibsonCoaching Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarah.o.gibson Abbey Walsh @Abbeyswholelife Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Abbeyswholelife/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Abbeyswholelife Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abbeyswholelife/ Vitality Health Matrix Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vitalityhealthmatrix/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vitalityhealthmatrix YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VitalityHealthMatrix Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vitalityhealthmatrix

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: 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 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 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/@schaleesanchez LINKEDIN: 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: 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

FINDING HER VOICE Set in the volatile early days of Christianity, this sweeping historical novel centers on three fearless women determined to claim their place in a faith that keeps trying to shut them down. Junia fights for acceptance in a divided church while protecting her biracial son and facing the possibility of new love, Susannah wrestles with the pull between motherhood and ministry as danger and expectations collide, and Mariamne challenges rigid gender roles as she confronts what true authority demands. Against a backdrop of real biblical events and rising tension, their stories intertwine in a bold exploration of faith, identity, equality, and resistance, delivering a powerful, feminist, LGBTQ+-affirming tale of courage and conviction. Finding Her Voice is Book Three of the From Broken to Bold trilogy, bringing the series to a defiant, unforgettable conclusion that proves silence was never an option. Consider this your official invitation to holy troublemaking. Learn more about Elaine Ricker Kelly and her work at www.elainekelly.ca TOPICS OF CONVERSATION Spotlight on early female apostles and the overlooked leadership roles of women in the first-century church Junia and Susanna as powerful yet imperfect figures pushing back against religious and societal silencing Parallels between ancient gender oppression and modern struggles around women’s rights and equality Faith, identity, and inclusion, including challenges to traditional Christian views on women and LGBTQ+ individuals Emotional themes surrounding motherhood, worth, infertility, and how women’s value has been historically measured The author’s personal journey of reclaiming voice and confronting ingrained beliefs within Christianity ABOUT THE AUTHOR Elaine Ricker Kelly is an award-winning author writing about women in the Bible and the early church. As a mother of three daughters, Elaine knew the harm of being considered secondary. She thought fiction would help others see how Jesus equipped women as disciples and empowered women to speak and lead. Her research-based approach and empathetic tone were developed during thirty years as a financial advisor. Since Jesus engaged women as financial advisors, Kelly felt betrayed as a Christian when she saw the church speaking against women leaders, and she felt it was important to show how the Bible empowers women and endorses equality for all. She hopes to bring healing and hope to those sidelined or silenced by the church by writing blogs on biblical equality, church history, and affirming LGBTQ+ people. She and her husband live near Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, and worship in the mainline Protestant Christian tradition. They have three adult daughters and enjoy hiking, nature, tennis, pickleball, music, history, and travel. Learn more about Elaine Ricker Kelly and her work at www.elainekelly.ca CONNECT WITH ELAINE RICKER KELLY! Instagram: @elaine_kelly_author Facebook: elainekellyauthor Youtube: www.youtube.com/c/ERK4Canada/playlists TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@elaine.kelly.author

LIFE AND HOW TO LIVE IT This memoir traces a boy growing up in 1980s Philadelphia as he navigates gangs, addiction, fractured faith, and a home life wired with chaos, finding his only lifeline in the music that gives him a sense of self. It’s a raw, darkly funny look at survival, identity, and the stubborn hope that rises even when you’re raised in the wreckage. Learn More WHEN THE LIGHT IS MINE A poetry collection that cuts through the noise with sharp, confessional poems about capitalism, faith, identity, depression, and the messy business of surviving yourself. It moves from raw disillusionment to moments of real tenderness, offering an unfiltered look at modern life that challenges, unsettles, and still manages to land on hope. Learn More TOPICS OF CONVERSATION ABOUT THE AUTHOR Chaz Holesworth writes from the gritty edge of lived experience. Raised in Philadelphia by a father struggling with heroin addiction and a mother bound to extreme fundamentalist Christianity, he grew up in a world defined by poverty, trauma, and contradiction. Out of that turbulence emerged a voice that is both unflinching and lyrical, capturing the weight of survival, the failures of society, and the fragile hope that persists despite it all. Over the past twenty-five years, Chaz has been sculpting those experiences into stories and poems. His memoir offers a brutally honest account of his past, while his poetry collection distills decades of struggle and reflection into themes of love, depression and loneliness, religion, and the fault lines buried beneath our society. Chaz strives to both trace the contours of intimacy and confront the politics of power, inviting readers into a deeply personal yet universally resonant search for meaning. Now living in the suburbs of Philadelphia with his wife and their beloved dog, Chaz continues to write with the urgency of someone who knows the cost of silence. His work speaks to anyone drawn to poetry and memoirs that dwell on deeper things, offering not just snapshots of a difficult life but the possibility of connection, understanding, and light. CONNECT WITH CHAZ HOLESWORTH Website: https://chazholesworthbooks.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chazholesworthauthor/

A CHARGE TO KEEP Lead with Purpose. Inspire with Integrity. Manage with Excellence. In A Charge to Keep, Rev. Kevin T. Taylor merges decades of leadership experience from the C-suite and the pulpit to offer timeless principles for managing change, fostering stability, and building impactful teams. Whether you’re leading a corporation, ministry, or nonprofit, Taylor’s actionable insights will empower you to navigate challenges with courage and clarity. Discover the power of financial stewardship, the importance of context-driven decisions, and the value of bringing your whole self―faith and all―to your leadership role. Packed with vivid stories and practical strategies, this book is a must-read for anyone ready to align their leadership with their values. If you’re seeking a guide to sustainable success and meaningful impact, A Charge to Keep is your next essential read. 🎙️ Main Conversation Points How faith and business leadership intersect — staying authentic in every setting. The loneliness of leadership and why his book serves as a playbook for real challenges. The cost of integrity — lessons from standing firm when it wasn’t the easy choice. How younger generations are redefining purpose, work-life balance, and leadership expectations. Why “trust but verify” remains essential for accountability in both ministry and management. DEI as a marathon, not a sprint — what true long-term commitment to inclusion requires. What’s next for Rev. Taylor — coaching, new books, and aligning purpose with performance. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Rev. Kevin T. Taylor is a pastor, educator, and executive leader who bridges the sacred and the strategic. Since 2021, he has served as Pastor of Israel A.M.E. Church in Albany, NY, where his ministry blends worship, justice, and innovation through initiatives like Speaking Truth to Power Tuesdays and the Summer Literacy Challenge. Beyond the pulpit, Kevin brings over 20 years of C-suite and nonprofit leadership experience. A proud Tuskegee University alum, he has been honored by Marquis Who’s Who (2025), 100 Men of Color, and the National Council of Negro Women. Through preaching, teaching, writing, and community service, Rev. Taylor equips organizations and congregations for spiritual growth and lasting transformation. Learn more about Reverend Kevin Taylor and his work at https://revkttaylor.com/ CONNECT WITH REVEREND KEVIN TAYLOR! WEBSITE: https://revkttaylor.com/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/revkttaylor/

KALMAN & LEOPOLD: SURVIVING MENGELE'S AUSCHWITZ In the shadow of the infamous Auschwitz-Birkenau extermination camp, Kalman and Leopold— two young boys—meet as unwitting subjects of Josef Mengele's twisted twin experiments. Pulled from their barrack, they are forced to become servants to the SS guards within Mengele's "hospital" camp, bearing daily witness to scenes of obscene viciousness. Within this nightmarish hell Leopold becomes Kalman's guide, helping him to navigate the terrifying complexities of the SS guard shack. Mengele's atrocities are relentless, yet within this darkness a friendship emerges, testament to the resilience of the human spirit. In January 1945, the Russian army liberates Birkenau and the boys part ways. For fifty-six years Kalman searches tirelessly for his friend and protector, driven by the memory of a boy he knew only by a nickname he had given him: Lipa. Their story is a reminder of the depths of human immorality, and it is a testament to friendship, faith, and survival against all odds. As intolerance and hate intensify in the world, Kalman and Leopold's voices echo across generations, urging us to remember the horrors of fascism so that history's darkest moments remain in the past. Never again! TOPICS OF CONVERSATION About Kalman & Leopold: Teenage twins who survived Mengele’s Auschwitz experiments. Reunited After 56 Years: A chance TV sighting leads to an emotional reconnection. Their Words, Their Voices: 20 hours of raw interviews told exactly as they spoke them. Inside the Guard Shack: A chilling, firsthand look at life beside Mengele’s hospital camp. More Than Survival: A story of resilience, decency, dignity, and moral courage. A Son’s Discovery: Richard uncovers his father’s hidden past and generational trauma. History Echoes Today: A warning against rising hate and blind misinformation. A Living Legacy: Their story endures as a call for empathy and remembrance. Looking Ahead: Hopes to share Kalman and Leopold’s story on screen for future generations. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Richard K. Lowy is the son of Leopold, one of the young survivors whose extraordinary story is told in Kalman & Leopold: Surviving Mengele's Auschwitz. Inspired by his father's resilience and the lessons of history, Richard has dedicated himself to sharing their remarkable journey with readers around the world. Through the book, he brings to life the experiences of two teenagers who faced unimaginable horrors in Auschwitz and emerged with a powerful message of courage, hope, and the importance of remembering. As a storyteller, Richard bridges the personal and the historical, showing how the experiences of the past can resonate deeply with today's readers—especially young adults seeking stories that are both relatable and profoundly moving. On the Reader Views Podcast, he shares insights not only into his father's story but also the process of bringing such an impactful narrative to life, highlighting why these voices must continue to be heard. CONNECT WITH RICHARD K. LOWY AND LEARN MORE: WEBSITE kalmanandleopold.com SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/CaptRrrr/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kalmanandleopold/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kalmanandleopold YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KalmanandLeopold

BORN ON MONDAY In Augusta, Maine, a historic nor’easter and something more sinister threaten to unearth the secrets buried deep in the town’s past. With time running out, three lives collide in a desperate fight for survival, where truth becomes a casualty and redemption comes at a cost. Billy Stevens, a quarry worker haunted by loss, is drawn into a web of betrayal when a brutal crime pins him as a suspect. Jessica Michaud returns to care for her ailing mother, only to find herself hunted by a vengeful ex whose chilling threats awaken old wounds. And journalist Andrea Kearney digs into a local dynasty’s corruption as the storm’s fury mirrors the rising tide of violence. Born On Monday is a gripping tale of resilience, moral ambiguity, and small-town sins — a literary thriller that will keep readers breathless until its haunting conclusion. Award-winning author Richard R. Becker delivers a gritty literary thriller that digs into identity, perception, and the human condition. TOPICS OF CONVERSATON The roots of the story and why Augusta, Maine became the perfect backdrop for a tense return-to-hometown thriller Trauma, survival, and morally complicated characters navigating love, shame, and second chances A chilling nursery rhyme and a raging nor’easter working together as psychological pressure-cookers Small-town secrets, power dynamics, online shaming, and the messy line between justice and truth A growing “50-States Universe,” future novels, audiobooks, and how this author's world keeps expanding ABOUT THE AUTHOR Richard R. Becker is an award-winning American author whose gripping stories blend resilience and moral complexity. His new novel, "Born on Monday" (2025), promises a thrilling tale of small-town sins that will captivate readers. His debut novel, "Third Wheel" (2023), soared into Amazon's top 100 thriller and suspense literary fiction novels, earned a Kirkus Reviews feature, and won seven awards, including Literary Thriller of the Year by the Artisan International Book Excellence Awards. His collection "50 States" (2021), crafted from a challenge to write one story a week for 50 weeks, topped Amazon's literary short story charts and won multiple honors. Raised in Milwaukee, Richard overcame poverty and personal challenges, infusing these experiences into his work to add emotional depth. When not writing, he enjoys acting, hiking, photography, and time with his family. He is married and has two adult children. CONNECT WITH RICHARD BECKER! CopyWriteInk: https://www.copywriteink.com/author-richard-r.-becker.html Website: https://byrichardrbecker.com Insta: https://www.instagram.com/richbecker FB: https://www.facebook.com/byRichardBecker Threads: https://www.threads.com/@richbecker X: https://x.com/RichBecker YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/RichardBecker TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@richardrbecker GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21606162.Richard_R_Becker LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/copywriteink/ BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/richbecker.bsky.social

STELLA SCURA: DARK STAR RISING VOLUME ONE: A blind teenage girl from North Pole, Alaska learns her true destiny as she realizes the full potential of her vast dark energy powers shortly after her eighteenth birthday. Is she really the legendary Aurora the Angel, or something far more sinister? Will the President of the United States ultimately serve as a mentor, or use her as a pawn to become ruler of the world? STELLA SCURA: DARK STAR RISING VOLUME TWO: Stella Scura impulsively goes on a mission that becomes nothing short of disastrous as she is aided by a long-forgotten group of fourth-rate 1990s TV superheroes in a quest to learn more about her abilities and those of the strange young man from the Netherlands known only as The Orthoman. Along the way she learns of her famous heritage and that her parents are not who they seem to be. Can she develop a relationship with her newly-found friends and family while retaining her humility? Or will she become the greatest "rock star" of all time when fame goes to her teenage head? STELLA SCURA: DARK STAR RISING VOLUME THREE: In the conclusion of Dark Star Rising, the amazing Stella Scura must confront her own vast potential for destruction and once again save a major city from nuclear devastation - but at what cost? And who close to her will make a tremendous sacrifice? TOPICS OF CONVERSATION Origins and Themes of Stella Scura – How the story began decades ago, the evolution of Paige Marshall as a character, and the central theme that real strength comes from moral choices rather than superpowers. World-Building and Political Parallels – The novel’s setting in Alaska and its expansion into cosmic and political territory, including commentary on power, leadership, and modern-day parallels. Power, Morality, and Humanity – Exploration of what power truly means, Paige’s moral restraint, and how humor, empathy, and logic play roles in resolving conflict instead of force. Family, Mentors, and Relationships – The influence of Petra, Jack, and President Wendy Mendoza on Paige’s growth; how family secrets, loyalty, and differing beliefs shape her identity. Series Continuity and Future Works – Connections to Neal’s earlier novels (Specific Gravity, Ontario Lacus, etc.), plans for a sequel, and upcoming unrelated projects including a romance and an Amalgam Man spinoff. ABOUT THE AUTHOR J. Matthew Neal is a physician (endocrinologist) and medical school assistant dean residing in Muncie, Indiana. He is the author of five problem-based endocrinology textbooks, and began writing fiction in the mid-2000s. His first novel, Specific Gravity, was published in 2007. His other fiction works include its sequel Ontario Lacus (2008), the young adult novel Americium the Beautiful (2010), and medical mysteries Amalgam-Man (2022), and Amalgam-Man: Burnt Crispy (2025). LEARN MORE ABOUT J. MATTHEW NEAL AND HIS WORK AT: https://www.jmneal.com/

SPECIAL OPERATIONS GROUP -A no-holds barred account of life in the elite police Special Operations Group, high on danger and adrenalin. Chris Glasl joined Victoria Police at nineteen, with one aim in mind: to become a member of the Special Operations Group. Ultra-fit and highly trained, the SOG are called to the most dangerous missions: hostage situations, gunmen on the loose and risky mobile intercepts. After going through an incredibly gruelling elimination process, Chris joined the SOG in 1994, thinking he was becoming part of a unit that was untouchable, indestructible and bonded so closely together they were a brotherhood like no other. He didn't find that brotherhood. Instead, Chris experienced a unit rife with bullying, lies and betrayal. In combination with the dangerous missions they undertook and the pressure he experienced in each one, Chris needed a release valve, and he found it by taking drugs. It was the only way to switch off the adrenalin, to sleep at night, to get through his days. And those days involved fatal shootings, a triple murder, a 100-million-dollar drug bust and the Port Arthur massacre, to name just a few. This is the ultimate insider account of what it takes to be one of the toughest police officers in the world, and the price it demands. It's a white-knuckle ride that you will never forget. TOPICS OF CONVERSATION: About Special Operations Group and his inspiration — how rehab journaling and unresolved trauma led Chris to tell his story. Life inside the SOG — the reality behind the elite image, from tight teamwork in the field to bullying and toxic culture behind the scenes. The cost of silence — how addiction, mental health struggles, and lack of support nearly destroyed him. Standing up — the controversy, censorship, and determination to reclaim and republish his book. A message of resilience — urging others in high-pressure roles to seek help, speak up, and prioritize mental health. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Christophe Glasl joined Victoria Police at nineteen with one goal—to become part of the Special Operations Group. After completing one of the toughest training programs in law enforcement, he served in the unit from 1994 to 1998. He now shares his experiences to shed light on the realities and pressures of serving in an elite police unit. To learn more about Christophe’s story, check out his book Special Operations Group, available through major booksellers. GET THE BOOK!