In this festival flashback episode of Authors in Espresso, host Nadia Gilkes revisits her 2020 interview with Dr. Gerry Hagen about his novel Mia Thaw: The Future Whispers. Dr. Hagen, a retired physician turned author, explains his vision of a future where minds can be "deep downloaded" into the cloud and explores how that technology might reshape society.

The conversation covers the book's characters and plot threads, the philosophical and religious questions raised by digital immortality, Dr. Hagen's publishing journey and reader reactions, and the possibilities for sequels and broader impact.

Host Nadia interviews Sheila Kennedy, founder of The Zebra Inc., about her journey from coaching to starting a small-label self-publishing company. They discuss do's and don'ts when hiring publishers, the layers of editing, ghostwriting realities, and how traditional vs. indie publishing compare.

The episode offers practical tips for authors: vet publishers and contracts, invest in editing, consider ghostwriting carefully, and use simple techniques to overcome imposter syndrome and finish your manuscript. Sheila also shares resources for indie authors through The Zebra Inc. and Stripes of Power.

Host Nadia Gilkes presents a festival flashback featuring Verde Arzu, author of Rainbow, exploring themes of Black queer love, self-acceptance, and the importance of representation in literature.

Verde discusses her independent publishing journey, discusses the importance of acceptance and owning your work, and offers encouragement for aspiring writers.