Blog Archives
Illuminating Human Connection
Navigate Family Technology explores the modern family’s dilemma of how to help children thrive without letting technology consume them, focusing on topics such as communication struggles, social media traps, empathy loss, anxiety, and sleep disruption. Did you find anything in your research of this story that surprised you?
I learned so much while researching the book, I’ll try to narrow the answer down to a few!
- That most Modern Tech executives strictly limit their family’s tech-use time and send the kids to low-tech schools
- The number of online predators actively working every day
- The amount of information we take in daily compared to 20 years ago
- The staggering number of hours of screen time displaces connection and well-being activities
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
My mission is about illuminating human connection in a disconnected modern world. Technology is one of the key drivers of this. We are often alone together on individual devices.
I also found it important to cover technology’s impact on empathy and distress tolerance.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Navigate Family Technology?
That overuse of technology is not our fault. Or our kids’ fault. But now that we understand the problem, it’s our responsibility to be intentional about it. And that we can do it – we have so much living to do and real-world connections to make.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Website | Amazon
Modern tech is an invaluable resource though its rapid development has created downsides. Nora provides accessible strategies to live our tech lives with intention rather than constant reaction mode. The content inspires hope for connection and comfort in knowing we do not face tech challenges alone.
Entertain a quest to level up your knowledge of modern tech’s influence and explore how to navigate its challenges
Life’s Greatest Mysteries
Dark Matter is a tightly woven collection of techno-thriller novellas that dive into themes of surveillance, data manipulation, artificial intelligence, and ethical collapse. What was the inspiration for this collection of short stories?
The inspiration for almost everything I write comes from fear. Each story dives into a fear that I have, whether it be wasps or having my online data used against me. I tend to get into the “what if” scenario, and that really drives my speculative theories. The future is coming at us so fast in real life that some of my scenarios may even seem like they’re already happening in a way, and I think that really hits home with readers.
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
Our relationships are what drive our experiences in this world. Imagine going through life without interacting with another living being–it would almost be impossible (or it would be incredibly boring). These relationships create drama and tension needed to establish a relevant story that readers will enjoy. From those relationships come actions–I often find myself debating what actions my characters should take, and it makes it fun for me. Almost like I’m playing God. Great fiction showcases these relationships and actions in a unique way by shining a spotlight on our fears and desires. We all want something in life, and I lean on that with my characters.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this collection of stories?
Definitely artificial intelligence. It’s such a hot topic as we are in an AI revolution that will put the Industrial Revolution to shame (in my opinion). Death is also one of life’s greatest mysteries, and I always enjoy tapping into that theme. But to be frank, I don’t sit down and say, “Okay, what theme do I want to drive with this new story?” I typically come up with a premise, start to build the characters and world, and let the muse guide my story. The themes will often expose themselves through character development and their growth. For example, in the story “The Chair,” the main character has a distaste for the lower class. I didn’t start the story thinking the division of economic status would be a major theme; it naturally grew to end up being a main piece of the main character’s arc and the conclusion of the story.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I’m definitely focused on the launch of Dark Matter coming out in September, but I am working on my next novel. It’s called Zero, and it’s actually based on a short story I wrote in college. I’ve been wanting to dive back into this particular story and can’t wait to expand on it. I’m hoping to release it in 2026, but it will most likely be available later that year. I love books and movies on time travel, and this book will be in that genre. Expect a twisty, epic adventure with a lot of heart.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
In this haunting collection of speculative tales, Robert Plant examines the razor-thin line between innovation and annihilation. While technology has crept into the cracks of human life, the potential for destruction and chaos lurks beneath the surface.
Within these pages you’ll discover a dating app with deceitful intentions; a family off the grid desperate for help; a game show blurring the lines of reality; a woman trying to save her game with unthinkable consequences; a writer’s getaway turned trap; the possibility of eternal life but at a cost; and an AI assistant who will do anything to make you happy.
Terrifying yet familiar, Dark Matter shines a light on the shadows of our relationship with technology. These stories not only envision our future, they warn us about the present.
Featuring “The Perfect Match” – the grand prize winner of the 2025 Small Bites Short Story Contest from Indies United Publishing House
Bots & Brilliance: 101 Things You Should Know About Artificial Intelligence
John Binks’ Bots & Brilliance is a crash course in artificial intelligence that reads like a lively conversation rather than a textbook. The book walks readers through 101 essential things to know about AI, from its history and daily applications to its ethical dilemmas and future possibilities. Whether you’re an AI newbie or someone with tech chops, Binks keeps things engaging with humor, real-world examples, and just enough technical depth to make you feel smarter without overwhelming you. It’s part explanation, part think-piece, and an enjoyable ride through the ever-evolving world of AI.
One of the standout features of this book is its knack for making AI accessible. The early chapters, like “AI, A Love Story” and “AI for the Complete Beginner,” strip away the intimidating layers of AI and present it as something we already interact with daily, such as smartphones, streaming services, and even online shopping. Binks compares AI to a “super-smart parrot” that mimics, learns, and sometimes surprises us, a metaphor that sticks. He also dispels common AI myths grounding the discussion in reality without killing the excitement. This approach makes the book perfect for readers who might be curious about AI but don’t want to wade through pages of technical jargon.
The book shines brightest when it explores how AI is already shaping our lives. The chapters “AI in Your Daily Life” and “AI at Work” are packed with examples of how AI is seamlessly integrated into everything from social media feeds to financial markets. Binks’ take on AI-powered streaming recommendations had me chuckling, he describes Spotify’s algorithm as a “magical music cauldron” that somehow knows you better than your best friend. The way he blends humor with insight keeps things engaging, and his examples make you realize just how deeply AI is embedded in everyday experiences.
Binks also doesn’t shy away from the darker side of AI. In The Dark Side of AI, he delves into bias, job displacement, privacy concerns, and the looming question of AI ethics. These are serious issues, but Binks presents them in a way that feels like a necessary reality check rather than fear-mongering. His discussion of AI bias, where AI can inherit and amplify human prejudices was especially eye-opening. He makes a strong case for why ethical oversight is crucial and why we can’t afford to let AI develop unchecked. This section adds depth to the book, making it more than just an AI enthusiast’s handbook, it’s also a call for responsible innovation.
In the end, Bots & Brilliance is a fantastic read for anyone curious about AI, whether you’re a beginner or someone who wants to connect the dots between tech and real life. It’s especially great for professionals trying to grasp AI’s impact on their industries without getting lost in tech-heavy explanations. If you want a book that makes AI feel less like a sci-fi concept and more like an everyday reality, while keeping you entertained, this one’s a solid pick.
Pages: 168 | ASIN : B0CVGP852J
100 Livestreaming & Digital Media Predictions, Volume 4
Ross Brand’s 100 Livestreaming & Digital Media Predictions brings together over 100 experts to provide a comprehensive guide for content creators navigating the rapidly evolving digital media landscape. This book is both timely and relevant, serving as a roadmap for the future of live streaming and digital media. It offers a wide range of predictions on emerging technologies, changing consumer behaviors, and innovative content strategies.
One of the book’s standout features is its authoritative stance on the controversial topic of AI. In an era where discussions about AI are highly divisive, the book’s balanced approach addresses both ethical and practical concerns, ensuring readers are well-informed about the benefits and potential pitfalls. This nuanced treatment of AI lends the book a credible and authoritative voice in the ongoing discourse.
The diversity of perspectives included in this book is another significant strength. Ross Brand has curated insights from across the digital media spectrum, from live streaming and podcasting to email marketing and community building. This comprehensive approach provides a well-rounded view of the industry’s collective opinion, enhancing the book’s credibility. The book features a variety of voices, each contributing unique insights. For example, Laura Clapp Davidson and Marisa Cali discuss the potential of micro-content, while Ross Quintana predicts a shift in advertising from traditional channels like TV to platforms like YouTube, alongside discussions on Web3 and VR/AR experiences. Bryan Kramer, on the other hand, highlights the enduring effectiveness of email marketing newsletters, particularly in an era of increasing privacy concerns and restrictive social media algorithms. While the book is rich in predictions, opinions, and discussions, its sheer variety offers a wealth of knowledge. I do feel that bit more thematic organization could enhance readers’ ability to digest the information seamlessly.
Ultimately, this book will open readers’ minds to a world of possibilities and re-energize their creativity. 100 Livestreaming & Digital Media Predictions reads like a captivating fairy tale rooted in reality, blurring the line between the two. It provokes thought and conversation about technology, its implications, and the opportunities the future holds.
Pages: 232 | ASIN : B0CSBCQSZR
Compiled by Ross Brand, an on-air personality and consultant for leading live video brands, this latest volume in our award-winning series (with 25 book awards to its name) is more than just a collection of predictions; it’s a roadmap to mastering the digital realm in 2024 and beyond.
Within these pages, 113 expert contributors, including Emmy winners, renowned YouTube influencers and Hall of Fame podcasters, share their foresight. They delve into how AI is redefining content creation, offering both foundational advice and groundbreaking strategies. From exploring AI’s role in enhancing productivity to addressing fears of losing authenticity, this book tackles the pressing questions every creator and entrepreneur faces:
What are the essential tools to integrate AI into your work?
How can AI be leveraged to maximize efficiency without sacrificing creativity?
What are the pitfalls of AI in digital media, and how can you navigate them?
How can you maintain a genuine connection with your audience in an AI-driven world?
“100 Livestreaming & Digital Media Predictions, Volume 4” isn’t just a window into the future; it’s a treasure trove of insights from industry leaders. You’ll find exclusive predictions that shed light on emerging trends and practical pathways to navigate the complex interplay of AI and human creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned creator or just starting, this book equips you with the knowledge to thrive in the dynamic digital media frontier.
Critics and peers alike praise the “100 Predictions” series for its depth, accuracy and utility. As the fourth installment, this volume continues the tradition of excellence, offering a unique blend of expert opinions and actionable advice.
Embark on a journey through the converging paths of AI and human ingenuity. Let the insights of seasoned experts arm you with the tools to not just anticipate the future but to shape it.
GET IT NOW and be part of the vanguard shaping the digital media landscape in 2024 and beyond.
Adopt Disruptive Technologies
The Future of Disruptive Technologies explores technologies that can change businesses, the workforce, and society. Why was this an important book for you to write?
As I started to do my research on various technologies, reading hundreds of articles and books, I soon found that there were so many different technologies to choose from. It’s so overwhelming and disturbing on how technology is going to impact us and our future generations. At the same time, how one can be proactive and take advantage of opportunities instead of living in fear.
This spurred me to gather together some of my findings in the hope that I can educate or provide useful information for kids and professionals in their mid-careers stuck with old technologies. I want to encourage everyone who reads this book to think of new and innovative technologies to adapt as they adjust in their careers, and also to get an understanding of how these technologies impact our future especially businesses and societies.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your book?
The aim to educate and encourage every reader to adopt disruptive technologies, as well as to understand their impact on the future of businesses, workforce, and societies, “The Future Of Disruptive Technologies” was born.
Throughout this insightful book, readers will:
- Learn how Cloud Computing is used to innovate in cheaper and faster ways
- Find out why Big Data is the new “oil” — the new raw material for businesses
- Understand how futures are reinvented with Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Educate themselves on why Data Privacy must be a priority in Cybersecurity
- Immerse themselves in all the new ways people behave and interact with machines
- Discover a world where dreams become reality — virtual and augmented realities
- Find out how 5G networks are transforming lives at high speed
- And so much more!
What is your professional experience and how has it helped you write this book?
Dr. Srikanth (Sri) Gaddam is an author, angel investor and a seasoned entrepreneur who launched three successful technology companies in the last seventeen years. Also, Dr. Gaddam’ s doctorate thesis is primarily focused on technology disruption “ROLE OF SENIOR LEADERS IN AN ERA OF TECHNOLOGY DISRUPTION: INFLUENCE ON TIMING OF ADOPTION”
Do you have plans to write other books on this same topic?
I am currently working on my new book “The Entrepreneurial Mindset: The Key Principles of Building and Growing Your Business”
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
When Dr. Srikanth Gaddam’s 15-year-old son broached the possibilities of landing a high-paying programming job without a college degree, he had to pause and reflect. After all, “even Bill Gates or Steve Jobs did not complete college but became billionaires.”
On the one hand, society has conditioned us that college is the ultimate mark of success. On the other, it takes 10,000 hours to master anything if you’re truly keen.
This spurred author, angel investor, and seasoned entrepreneur Dr. Srikanth Gaddam to gather insights on the best technologies for people, young and old, to begin to study and master — whether or not they decide to undergo formal education.
With the aim to educate and encourage every reader to adopt disruptive technologies, as well as to understand their impact on the future of businesses, workforce, and societies, “The Future Of Disruptive Technologies” was born.
Throughout this insightful book, readers will:
•Learn how Cloud Computing is used to innovate in cheaper and faster ways
•Find out why Big Data is the new “oil” — the new raw material for businesses
•Understand how futures are reinvented with Artificial Intelligence (AI)
•Educate themselves on why Data Privacy must be a priority in Cybersecurity
•Immerse themselves in all the new ways people behave and interact with machines
•Discover a world where dreams become reality — virtual and augmented realities
•Find out how 5G networks are transforming lives at high speed
•And so much more!
With so many different technologies to choose from, it’s easy to become overwhelmed.
In “The Future Of Disruptive Technologies”, any young adult or professional in their mid-careers stuck with old technologies can take the first step to grasp both the present and future impacts of technology… and how to leverage each.
Something Never Imagined
Roxanne Burkey Author Interview
The Enigma Ignite is filled with technological advancements, drama, and humor while it assembles an interesting cast of characters to solve a problem with high tech communications. What was the inspiration for the theme of this novel?
Communications avenues have evolved to the point where we can speak over almost any device, often with video included. In our line of professional work using cell towers, satellites and SIP opens up more avenues for conversations to be monitored or masked. Each of our stories focus on the technology capabilities as well as how we use and abuse technology. Those who want to see what is occurring and yet they themselves hide under the radar are only limited by their imagination. A lot like a fictional author, right?
Technology is a lot like art in that it can inspire different interpretations in each person. The difference however is that with technology if you see dark thoughts you can use the product for dark actions. Enhanced communications for the battlefield, the main theme for this story, is just exactly what we were trying to illustrate. We create this brilliant researcher, Su Lin, trying to improve food production and the bad guys have seen the possibilities of her development efforts, yet have mapped it to their purposes in the dark net. The point we are trying to drive home is that no matter what your intentions were there will be some entity capable of morphing it into something never imagined. The problem then becomes how to put the genie back into the bottle?
Charles Breakfield
Your work is able to effortlessly switch between drama and humor. Is that because of the two of you working together? Which one of you do you find lends more levity to your writing?
We do have fun working together to continue the aspects of drama and humor. Burkey has continually tried to learn humor over the years and is improving. The subtle aspects of the humor for the most part in the early stories of the series is Breakfield, however as you get further into the series Burkey comes up with some winning humor aspects. Over the years we have had a lot of humor in heavy drama circumstances when stuck in a horrific late night upgrade. Like the time we had talk down an engineer that ran screaming out of the building with our emergency chocolate pieces. You just can’t make that stuff up. Of course, we can’t tell you who wrote which portions because then we would need to arrange an unfortunate accident for you in a future story.
I found Su Lin and Franklin’s story line to be intriguing all the way around. What was your inspiration for the characters and relationship?
In our experience pigs are creatures who can bind with people, like a dog. They also have some physiology that makes that ideal for this kind of experimentation. Su Lin needed a new way to focus her creative efforts and do something for humanity that would make her feel like the valuable individual she is. Her brilliant character has evolved in the series and we wanted to give her some additional dimension. We honestly felt that putting the two together would interesting. Perhaps we were slightly influenced by the long ago story of a family, a pig, and a spider.
The Enigma Ignite is the third book in the Enigma series. What did you do different in this story to keep things fresh?
The technology keeps our series fresh as it keeps changing and we are in a position to observe its applications. However, it is the characters that give the series a very unique perspective. We have a subject rich pool of people and technology for our award winning techno thriller series. We incorporate the numerous characters, aka business professionals, we have encountered and it simply allows our imaginations to run rampant. Nanotechnology, drones, and military superiority as a mix seemed to play right into our process. The technologies alone don’t matter without the human interactions. The human interaction is more inspiring when they help paint a great story. We believe we balance a great combination of the technologies, research and characters to keep it fresh. We are so delighted you enjoyed it. In subsequent stories some characters, good and bad return, and some simply earn their just desserts. New technology continues to evolve our stories.
Author Links: Twitter | Facebook | Website
![The Enigma Ignite (The Enigma Series Book 3) by [Breakfield, Charles V, Burkey, Roxanne E]](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/515Ti-EhwzL.jpg)
What does research to improve animal husbandry to boost global food supplies have in common with next generation high-tech military communications? A Texas university professor, quietly working in her field of study, finds her unconventional communication techniques have put her in the cross-hairs of multiple interested parties. Her applied research of nanotechnology, coupled with new programming methods has gotten her more attention than she wanted.
When the world’s biggest powers compete for superiority, it’s not larger weapons or greater numbers of soldiers that top their wish lists. Instead, it’s leveraging the latest technology improvements: nanotechnology,dynamic programming algorithms, and drones, working together to build the next generation of military communications. But what challenges do they face before emerging as the tall hog at the trough?
As Keith Austin Avery scouts new technology and new applications under his military contract his research draws the attention of a powerful terrorist group, with traumatic consequences for him and his subcontractor Eilla-Zan Marshall. Will they be forced to reveal the confidential military plans? Or is all this information already out on the Dark Net?
The R-Group is engaged to locate terrorists and their captives. Marshaling all data and using sophisticated analytics, they uncover more than they planned. Is there government corruption? Are secrets kept from those who can help? Most importantly, how many will lose their lives in the fight to perfect advanced battlefield communications?
This fast-paced third installment of the Enigma Series,TheEnigma Ignite, has the R-Group’s Jacob Michaels and Petra Rancowski working closely with a powerful and talented team to uncover the newest technological inroads. The technology programs they uncover results in a race against time to save lives.
Award winning authors, Breakfield and Burkey, provide a solid espionage thriller, that incorporates a satisfying balance of technology, tension, surprisingly sensitive romance,and the blurred lines that surround the age-old conflict between good and evil.
The Enigma Ignite
The Enigma Ignite, by Charles Breakfield and Roxanne Burkey, is fraught with technological advancements and a lesson in all things computer. The entire team of characters assembled by the authors is rich with all the appropriate levels of humor, drama, and romance. The diverse cast of characters are members of an exceptionally knowledgeable team working overtime to rescue Keith Avery and Eilla-Zan from terrorists while simultaneously solving the dilemma of safely and successfully transporting Su Lin, Daisy, and Franklin (a pig and Su Lin’s prized possession), who themselves may hold the answers to cleaning up the mess made by the horrendous failures in battlefield communications technology.
Once again, Breakfield and Burkey have created some villains of epic proportions. Oxnard (that name alone is sneer-worthy), kidnapper and all-around cretin, is one of those evil-doers readers will revel in hating. At one point he seems to almost cherish describing the beating into submission of elephants as he taunts his captive, Keith Avery. Oxnard represents everything vile in a human, and the authors have more than hit the mark with this character.
The various pairs of team members who work together all have a chemistry that can’t be beat. The authors have succeeded in crafting characters like Julie and Juan and Petra and Jacob who rather effortlessly morph from business-like and focused to laidback couples thoroughly enjoying each other’s company. Each couple is as intelligent and driven as the other, and virtually all of their dialogue flows smoothly and is laden with relatable humor.
I found Su Lin and Franklin’s storyline to be rather intriguing all the way around. The fact that Su Lin’s experiments could yield results helpful to the military and stemmed from her work with a pig, well…it was a fascinating spin. Daisy’s very personal and painful experience related to her work makes the entire subplot much more believable and personal for readers.
Though filled to the brim with technical terms and bubbling with all the seriousness of big screen drama, the authors lace their work with humor. The acronyms themselves are, more often than not, based on levity. For example, the acronym COBWEB represents Civilian Observer Blokes Wearing Excessive Bling. I had to laugh out loud at the appearance of the brothers, Won and Ton. Breakfield and Burkey, without a doubt, deliver the humor.
I have to say that the addition of Andy to this cast of characters is a welcome one. Andy, experienced in communications and a native of the South, was a pleasure to read. Being from the South myself, I appreciated his southern drawl and the references to his hospitality. Stereotypical? Maybe. In a good way? Absolutely.
I have to rate The Engima Ignite by Breakfield and Burkey a 5 out of 5. I thoroughly enjoy the dialogue between the characters whether it be between the villain and the heroes or between the good guys in their private moments. The authors manage to take highly technical terms and procedures and make them relatable for the average reader. Their well-drawn characters are a huge part of that success.
Pages: 331 | ASIN: B00KTGJ0QA
LITERARY TITAN 