Live from the American Library Association’s annual summer conference in Philadelphia, the Big Time Talker podcast welcomes Tammy Gerhard, award-winning author of Coco Hugs and Coffee Mugs. Tammy shares her journey from 22 years as a school counselor to inspiring readers of all ages with her picture books about kindness, empathy, and community. Discover how her stories — and companion activity book — are making a real difference in schools, homes, and beyond. Learn more and grab her books at htt...
Aug 26, 2025•17 min
Southern rock legend Greg T Walker shares his journey—from playing with Blackfoot and early Lynyrd Skynyrd to leading his latest band, Two Wolf. He opens up about what drives him to keep creating music after all these years, the powerful chemistry behind Two Wolf’s lineup, and the passion poured into their debut album on Cleopatra Records. Greg also reflects on his Native American roots, the importance of preserving cultural traditions, and the truth behind how Hollywood shaped the public’s view...
Aug 19, 2025•32 min
In this heartfelt episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, host Burke Allen sits down with singer-songwriter and pianist John McAndrews, a true artist whose journey through addiction, mental health struggles, and musical perseverance is as powerful as his songs. Broadcasting from Washington, DC, Burke explores John's beginnings in a deeply musical family, his brush with self-destruction, and his road to recovery — all of which shaped his soulful new album, Better Side of Me. With stories of recor...
Aug 12, 2025•23 min
In this lively episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, award-winning children's author and illustrator Ashley Belote joins us live from the American Library Association's annual summer conference in Philadelphia. Ashley shares her creative journey from being the “designated art kid” to becoming a successful author-illustrator with a passion for humor and heart in children’s books. She dives into the balance of writing and illustrating, the value of finding your creative voice, and how persistenc...
Aug 05, 2025•18 min
Award-winning author Dan Hendrickson returns to the Big Time Talker Podcast, live from the American Library Association’s conference in Philadelphia, to unveil his latest action-packed historical novel, "Brandy: Dame of the Caribbean." Host Burke Allen dives into Dan’s inspiration behind this thrilling saga, rooted in the real-life abolitionist movement in the Caribbean during the 1830s–1860s. Hendrickson shares how Brandy, a pirate-turned-heroine, joins forces with abolitionists, faces off agai...
Jul 29, 2025•20 min
Live from the American Library Association Conference in Philadelphia, Burke Allen sits down with author and lifelong educator Hazell Thomas to talk about her powerful children’s book Money Moves a Nation: A Civil Rights Lesson for Children. Inspired by the tragic story of Emmett Till and told through the eyes of her own family, Hazell’s book offers young readers a meaningful look at America’s civil rights history — rooted in her hometown of Money, Mississippi. With illustrations by her husband,...
Jul 22, 2025•13 min
In this special episode of the Big Time Talker, recorded live at the American Library Association Conference in Philadelphia, Burke Allen sits down with Patricia Miller—Headline Books author and master of middle-grade mysteries. Patricia shares how her love for Agatha Christie inspired her to create spooky, twist-filled tales for young readers. From collaborating with student illustrators to turning everyday moments into chilling storylines, she reveals the magic behind her latest release, Myste...
Jul 15, 2025•14 min
Want to turn your clutter into cold hard cash? In this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, we’re joined by Aaron LaPedis, author of The Garage Sale Millionaire . With over four decades of experience, a PBS show, and a column in The Denver Post, Aaron reveals how to make thousands from the stuff you already own—and how one childhood mistake turned into a multimillion-dollar journey. From yard sale dos and don’ts to spotting hidden gems and using eBay + AI to price smarter, this episode is ful...
Jul 08, 2025•28 min
In this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, host Burke Allen welcomes humorist and former media executive Bill Williams, author of 20 Years of Internet Humor. Bill shares his fascinating journey from a successful career in media and government work in Washington, DC, to becoming one of the first to use email as a tool to spread humor and inspiration in the early days of the internet. What started as a simple way to get his sales team to read their emails turned into a 30-year project that no...
Jul 01, 2025•29 min
In this episode of The Underground Broadcast Bunker, host Burke Allen takes you deep into the wild world of 1980s rock with special guest Rita Rae Roxx, author of Once Upon a Rock Star: Backstage Passes in the Heavy Metal 80s. From unforgettable concerts and backstage encounters to personal moments with rock legends like David Lee Roth, Billy Squier, and Steven Tyler, Rita shares the untold stories behind the glam, grit, and chaos of the era. Get her book:https://www.amazon.com/Once-Upon-Rock-St...
Jun 24, 2025•28 min
In this special simulcast of the Big Time Talker Podcast and Headline Books’ Zoom Into Books series, host Burke Allen sits down with award-winning author and speaker Richard Battle to discuss his latest release, Americans Who Made America: 18th Century – Birth of the Republic. This compelling volume kicks off a multi-part series that shines a light on both famous and forgotten individuals who shaped the United States through grit, innovation, and a relentless “can-do” spirit. Richard shares the ...
Jun 17, 2025•36 min
On this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, Burke Allen welcomes Eddie “Coco” Stancil, lead vocalist and leader of the World Famous Ink Spots. Eddie shares the group’s nearly century-long legacy, from its 1930s origins to its modern revival through streaming platforms and the Fallout video game series. He also discusses their latest album, The Music and the Memories. Presented in partnership with the Bank of Clarke County.
Jun 10, 2025•31 min
In this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, host Burke Allen welcomes Amazon #1 best-selling author Christopher Lee Maher—a former Navy SEAL and the author of Free for Life: A Navy SEAL’s Path to Inner Freedom and Outer Peace. Christopher shares his incredible journey from a turbulent childhood and military discipline to healing and transformation. Tune in as he opens up about the emotional challenges of his youth, how the Milton Hershey School shaped his resilience, and how he turned advers...
Jun 03, 2025•45 min
In this episode of the Big Time Talker podcast, host Burke Allen welcomes back workplace culture expert and media commentator Hanna Hasl-Kelchner. Hanna discusses her new book, Seeking Fairness at Work: Cracking the New Code of Greater Employee Engagement, Retention, and Satisfaction, and shares timely insights on honesty, trust, and crisis management in organizations — including what we can learn from leadership challenges at the highest levels of government. Get Hanna’s book here: https://www....
May 27, 2025•29 min
Award-winning authors Larry and Carol McGehe join host Burke Allen on the Big Time Talker Podcast to share the heart behind their historical novel In Search of My Heart: Miriam’s Story. Set in first-century Israel, this biblically grounded page-turner follows a young girl's transformative journey of faith, love, and loss—and how it continues to resonate with readers of all backgrounds today. The McGehes also discuss their collaborative writing process, the impact of visiting the Holy Land, and h...
May 20, 2025•42 min
Podcast Description: In this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast with Burke Allen, legendary artist manager David Spero joins us from Cleveland to share stories from his 60 years at the heart of rock and roll. From growing up backstage on iconic TV shows to managing artists like Joe Walsh and Michael Stanley, David reflects on an incredible career shaping the music industry. Check out David Spero’s memoir, "A Life in the Wings: My 60 Year Love Affair with Rock and Roll," available here: https...
May 06, 2025•42 min
On this episode of the Big Time Talker podcast, we dive into the hidden corners of Civil War history with author Robert Hillard, whose award-winning historical fiction novel In Freedom’s Shadow uncovers the remarkable story of John Scobel—a man born into slavery who escaped to freedom, only to return to the South as a spy for the Union. Host Burke Allen chats with Robert about the inspiration behind the book, the real-life intelligence networks of the 1860s, and how a single paragraph on the CIA...
Apr 29, 2025•34 min
Award-winning, best-selling author Marcus Abston joins Burke Allen on the Big Time Talker Podcast to discuss his powerful historical fiction series, with a spotlight on his latest book, Blood Brothers. Marcus shares the inspiration behind his writing, rooted in deep family history and cultural exploration, particularly the complex intersections between African American and Native American communities. We talk about identity, lost histories, and the untold stories that shaped generations — and ho...
Apr 22, 2025•33 min
In this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, host Burke Allen sits down with Jax Perrins, children’s book author, mom of four, and advocate for fun, healthy eating habits for kids. Jax shares the story behind her colorful children’s book, *Taste Buddies*, and how her own family’s approach to nutrition inspired its creation. From picky eaters to curious foodies, Jax offers relatable parenting insights and practical tips on how to raise kids who love trying new foods. Connect with Jax Perrins: ...
Apr 16, 2025•24 min
Music industry veteran Barry Bergman shares his incredible journey from Brooklyn to managing and publishing some of rock’s biggest legends, including AC/DC, Meat Loaf, and KISS. From the early days of Greenwich Village to the digital revolution, Barry gives an insider’s look at the business, the legends, and the lessons learned along the way. Tune in for an unforgettable conversation! Learn more about Barry at www.barrybergman.com .
Apr 08, 2025•41 min
Join us as award-winning author, educator, and librarian Nichole Calabrese delves into our fascination with ghost stories, the origins of hauntings, and the inspiration behind her debut novel, Haunt: Book One. Discover the eerie tales that have captivated cultures and how they influence her writing. About the Book: Haunt: Book One* introduces Gemma LeClair, a teenager who can see and speak with the dead. Seeking a fresh start in Sage County, Gemma quickly realizes her new high school is teeming ...
Apr 01, 2025•37 min
In this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, host Burke Allen sits down with author Deborah Mallow to discuss her book, 6 Steps to Fewer Days That Suck: Ditch Unhealthy Habits and Unzip a Happier You. Deborah shares her personal journey of overcoming negativity, anxiety, and burnout—transforming her mindset through daily decisions and actionable steps. Learn how to break free from circular thinking, manage stress, and create a more positive outlook on life. Plus, grab free resources from her ...
Mar 25, 2025•29 min
On this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, host Burke Allen sits down with Ellen Edmondson, an award-winning author and former senior executive in the federal government. Ellen shares her incredible journey—from overseeing $250 million in federal funds to making a life-altering leap into the world of spirituality, intuitive gifts, and mediumship. She opens up about the defining moments that led her to walk away from her successful career, the divine synchronicities that brought her to her h...
Mar 18, 2025•38 min
Infidelity affects millions, yet few openly discuss its impact. Award-winning author Sujata Patel joins The Big Time Talker Podcast to share her deeply personal journey through betrayal and healing, as told in her book, Poorly Wrapped Gifts: Rising and Thriving After Infidelity. Host Burke Allen explores Sujata’s experiences of uncovering multiple infidelities, navigating the emotional devastation, and finding the strength to rebuild her life. They discuss the psychology of cheating, the importa...
Mar 11, 2025•38 min
On this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, host Burke Allen sits down with Chad Lewis, author of The Persuasion Game, to discuss the evolution of disinformation, global political influence, and the hidden forces shaping world affairs. Chad shares his experiences backpacking through Europe, teaching in Russia, and witnessing firsthand how foreign actors manipulate media and public perception. He breaks down how Russia, Turkey, and Venezuela have used influence networks to impact global polit...
Mar 05, 2025•44 min
In this special simulcast edition of Zoom Into Books and The Big Time Talker Podcast, host Burke Allen sits down with New Jersey rock icon Wayne Oliveri, author of The Undiscovered Showman. Wayne takes us behind the scenes of his decades-long music career, from playing CBGBs alongside Blondie and The Ramones to his friendship with a young Jon Bon Jovi. He shares candid stories of near-misses in the music industry, the hard truths of rock and roll, and his continued passion for performing with hi...
Mar 04, 2025•40 min
Join host Burke Allen as he sits down with award-winning author Todd Gross to explore his sci-fi trilogy, starting with Loy in the Forests of the Mind. Discover how Todd blends dystopian adventure with psychological depth and mystical realism, drawing inspiration from Dune, Clan of the Cave Bear, and spiritual thinkers like Eckhart Tolle. From his early days in New Jersey to crafting a tale of human potential, Todd shares the creative journey behind his captivating storytelling. Check out Loy in...
Feb 25, 2025•22 min
In this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, host Burke Allen sits down with Dr. Josh McConkey—a decorated military physician, author, and former congressional candidate. Dr. McConkey shares his incredible journey from small-town Nebraska to the front lines of combat medicine, his experience serving in the U.S. Air Force, and his leadership philosophy behind his award-winning book "Be the Weight Behind the Spear." He dives into: ✅ The meaning behind being the weight behind the spear ✅ His com...
Feb 18, 2025•28 min
In this gripping episode of the Big Time Talker podcast, host Burke Allen welcomes award-winning author and former DEA Special Agent Gregory D. Lee. With a remarkable career that includes pivotal roles in drug investigations and counter-terrorism efforts, Lee shares his firsthand experiences from the front lines of law enforcement. He discusses his new international thriller, "Stinger," which intricately weaves a tale of DEA and FBI collaboration against a backdrop of terrorism and intrigue. Lis...
Feb 11, 2025•45 min
In this episode of the Big Time Talker podcast, host Burke Allen chats with award-winning author David Calloway about an incredible story from his family’s past. David dives into the life of his great grandfather, who was born into slavery in East Tennessee during the Civil War. He shares how this remarkable man navigated the challenges of that difficult time, working to keep both his black and white families safe amidst the chaos. David's book, "If Someday Comes," blends historical facts with p...
Feb 05, 2025•19 min
