Claim OwnershipAlternate Futures
Subscribed: 6Played: 84
Subscribe
© Alternate Futures
Description
Fun, interesting, unusual, and always thought-provoking, The Alternate Futures podcast features interviews with indie science fiction creators where we discuss their work, the world, and anything in-between.
76 Episodes
Reverse
The superhero genre is alive and well in Becoming Glitch.
Daniel Sayre and I chat about his take on this diverse genre in relation to his debut novel Becoming Glitch. We also discuss running obstacle courses, the challenges of marketing, and moral boundaries as explored by stories about superhumans.
As usual, there are also the Big Questions.
Books of his we discuss: Becoming Glitch
Further info on this and other episodes, as well as author info and content, can be found at AlternateFutures.co.uk
If you're on Wordpress.com, you can follow the podcast at alternatefuturespodcast.wordpress.com
Finally, you can follow my articles on science fiction, socio-technological issues, and futurism at alternatefutures.substack.com
DL Young is a Pushcart Prize nominee and Independent Press Award winner known for his fast-paced science fiction novels. In this episode, we delve into his latest trilogy, 'Empire and Ashes,' which weaves together elements of space opera, political intrigue, and espionage. We also explore the vast world-building involved, including alien races, advanced technologies, and star gates. Young shares his journey from business professional to full-time writer and offers insights into his creative process and marketing strategies. We also, we discuss the potential future impact of AI and what it could mean for humanity.Books of his we discuss: Jeryn's Dagger (Empire and Ashes trilogy), Cyberpunk city trilogyFurther info on this and other episodes can be found at AlternateFutures.co.ukIf you're on Wordpress.com, you can follow the podcast at alternatefuturespodcast.wordpress.comFinally, you can also find the podcast, and follow my articles on science fiction, socio-technological issues, and futurism at alternatefutures.substack.com
Michael Bianco has turned some his attention from engineering fruit preservation technology to crafting Orion's Seed, a pulse-pounding thriller that features an historical power struggle, ancient mysteries, and extraterrestrial visitors from the depths of history. Our conversation spans the frozen wastelands of Antarctica to the most inaccessible places on Earth.We also discuss powerful shadowy groups, crop circles, and whether humanity needs help to survive.Books of his we discuss: Orion's SeedFurther info on this and other episodes can be found at AlternateFutures.co.ukIf you're on Wordpress.com, you can follow the podcast at alternatefuturespodcast.wordpress.comFinally, you can also find the podcast, and follow my articles on science fiction, socio-technological issues, and futurism at alternatefutures.substack.com
Born out of an offhand comment post-back surgery, Paul's debut novel Black Void explores a catastrophic experiment at CERN, resulting in a technology that erases matter instantly. Paul shares his journey from a career in technology and business to becoming a sci-fi author, as well as details about his research trips and the challenges of marketing a self-published book.We also discuss the moral implications of advanced technology, the lack of self-awareness of ideologues, and creative uses of micro black holes.Books of his we discuss: Black Void: Nowhere to RunFurther info on this and other episodes can be found at AlternateFutures.co.ukIf you're on Wordpress.com, you can follow the podcast at alternatefuturespodcast.wordpress.comFinally, you can also find the podcast, and follow my articles on science fiction, socio-technological issues, and futurism at alternatefutures.substack.com
Tony Bible shares his humble beginnings, his writing inspirations, and his love for football and role-playing games. We delve into the intriguing tale of 'The Photo Jumper,' where protagonist Allister McClamroch transports himself into photographs in an attempt to solve his best friend's murder. Join us in a discussion about world-building, time travel, and the implications of an AI-driven future where everyone could potentially be a photo jumper. Books of his we discuss: Photo JumperFurther info on this and other episodes can be found at AlternateFutures.co.ukIf you're on Wordpress.com, you can follow the podcast at alternatefuturespodcast.wordpress.comFinally, you can also find the podcast, and follow my articles on science fiction, socio-technological issues, and futurism at alternatefutures.substack.com
Stephan Mohamed, award-winning author and spoken word performer, takes us through his eclectic journey in creative writing sharing tips on editing and publishing. Discover the surreal and mind-bending world of his latest novel, 'The House on Utopia Way,' a noir detective tale set in a city where reality is fragmented.This episode explores the influences of internet echo chambers, the evolution of AI, and the vital role of human connection in a post-truth world.Join us for an insightful conversation that blends fiction with the complexities of modern life.Books of his we discuss: The House on Utopia WayFurther info on this and other episodes can be found at AlternateFutures.co.ukIf you're on Wordpress.com, you can follow the podcast at alternatefuturespodcast.wordpress.comFinally, you can also find the podcast, and follow my articles on science fiction, socio-technological issues, and futurism at alternatefutures.substack.com
In this episode, I sit down with M. Lazslo to discuss his evocative novel 'Anastasia's Midnight Song.' We delve into the creation of a richly detailed, cross-genre tale set during World War I, where characters grapple with schizophrenia and blurred lines between reality and fantasy. Laszlo shares insights on historical settings, the impact of music and technology on the human psyche, and his own experiences living in East Jerusalem. Don't miss this dive into the mind of a writer who masterfully blends the real and the surreal.Books of his we discuss: Anastasia's Midnight SongFurther info on this and other episodes can be found at AlternateFutures.co.ukIf you're on Wordpress.com, you can follow the podcast at alternatefuturespodcast.wordpress.comFinally, you can also find the podcast, and follow my articles on science fiction, socio-technological issues, and futurism at alternatefutures.substack.com
In this episode, I interview LG Jenkins, author of the new adult dystopian Merit Hunters series. Discover the intriguing world of 'The Sun of Endless Days,' where merit points dictate every aspect of life, and explore the inspirations behind Jenkins' gripping tales.This episode, recorded live at the Harrogate Library, delves into the pressures of modern society, the challenges of writing and marketing books, and the messages woven into dystopian science fiction. Jenkins shares insights into her creative process, her take on today's societal issues, and why she thinks we're already living in a form of dystopia.Books of hers we discuss: The Sun of Endless Days (Merit Hunters series)Further info on this and other episodes can be found at AlternateFutures.co.ukIf you're on Wordpress.com, you can follow the podcast at alternatefuturespodcast.wordpress.comFinally, you can also find the podcast, and follow my articles on science fiction, socio-technological issues, and futurism at alternatefutures.substack.com
In this episode, I chat with Brent Golembiewski, a retired US Air Force veteran turned indie sci-fi author. Brent shares fascinating stories from his military career, including his time working on electronic warfare and flying Huey helicopters. He also dives into his transition to writing, discussing his Flat Earth Trilogy, the captivating middle-grade 'Central Fire' series debuting with 'The Boy, The Cube, The Elf,' and his upcoming dystopian novel, 'Social Score.' Explore insights into his creative process, publishing experiences with Scrivenings Press, and his thoughts on the future of freedom and technology. Perfect for fans of sci-fi, military history, and aspiring writers!Books of his we discuss: The Boy, The Cube, and the Elf; Social Score; The Flat Earth seriesFurther info on this and other episodes can be found at AlternateFutures.co.ukIf you're on Wordpress.com, you can follow the podcast at alternatefuturespodcast.wordpress.comFinally, you can also find the podcast, and follow my articles on science fiction, socio-technological issues, and futurism at alternatefutures.substack.com
In this episode, I dive into a fascinating conversation with Ben Paris, an experienced NASA consultant and science museum executive director. We explore his work, including his novel 'Mars Armor Forged' and the complexities of human colonization on Mars. Ben shares his thoughts on political intrigue, the potential of synesthetic heroes in fiction, and the future of humanity in the face of AI and declining birth rates. Whether you're a sci-fi aficionado or just curious about our celestial prospects, this episode is packed with insights and compelling ideas.Books of his we discuss: Mars: Armor Forged, Wade of AquataineFurther info on this and other episodes can be found at AlternateFutures.co.ukIf you're on Wordpress.com, you can follow the podcast at alternatefuturespodcast.wordpress.comFinally, you can also find the podcast, and follow my articles on science fiction, socio-technological issues, and futurism at alternatefutures.substack.com
Ovid Vesper fought in one of the worst battles of the U.S. civil war where he was almost killed in an explosion. As he returned to the land of the living, something came with him and it's been following him on his journey to reconnect with post-war America, ever since.In this episode, I chat with Frederic S Durbin about the history and themes underpinning his latest novel The Country Under Heaven. Why did he set a paranormal story of post-war trauma in the Wild West? What similarities does the mid-1800s have to the modern era, and what important differences? And just how many analog typewriters can one person own?Books of his we discuss: The Country Under HeavenFurther info on this and other episodes can be found at AlternateFutures.co.ukIf you're on Wordpress.com, you can follow the podcast at alternatefuturespodcast.wordpress.comFinally, you can also find the podcast, and follow my articles on science fiction, socio-technological issues, and futurism at alternatefutures.substack.com
Imagine being able to see 5 seconds into the future and being able to chose the path you want from the myriad of posibilities. Preble Jeffereson has that ability and he knows how to use it. So, what could stop such a person?In part two of my chat with Alexander Boldizar, we delve more into the philosophical ideas behind The Man Who Saw Seconds. We discuss Laplace's Demon and whether omniscience is truly possible, we explore Asimov's Mule - the unexpected variant that can destabilize a society, and we consider the trolly problem as a foil to limited omniscience.Books of his we discuss: The Man Who Saw SecondsFurther info on this and other episodes can be found at AlternateFutures.co.ukIf you're on Wordpress.com, you can follow the podcast at alternatefuturespodcast.wordpress.comFinally, you can follow my articles on science fiction, socio-technological issues, and futurism at alternatefutures.substack.com
Being able to see 5 seconds into the future may not seem like much, but in Alexander Boldizar's latest novel, The Man Who Saw Seconds, it's enough to change the world. This fast-paced story explores the dynamics of power structures, the line between good and evil, and the power of family. And it invites the reader to consider some serious questions:Can you return to what you were after you've crossed the line?How far is too far to save the people you love?Just how powerful is 5 seconds of local omniscience?In the first of our two-part discussion, I chat with Alexander about his path from law to writing, publishing with Clash Books and navigating the financial side of bookselling, and how to craft an entertaining story that can still be a vehicle for the exploration of ideologies.Books of his we discuss: The Ugly, The Man Who Saw SecondsFurther info on this and other episodes can be found at AlternateFutures.co.ukIf you're on Wordpress.com, you can follow the podcast at alternatefuturespodcast.wordpress.comFinally, you can follow my articles on science fiction, socio-technological issues, and futurism at alternatefutures.substack.com
Sean Robins' latest, Echoes of Extinction, the opening novel of his Voidwalkers Chronicles series, lives up to its title, serving up hefty doses of near extinction events. But it's not all doom and gloom. Canadian ex-pat Robins also seasons his story with an abundance of fun pop culture references, a sardonic AI companion, and the toughest Canadian to explore the galaxy.I chat with Sean about how teaching English has led him to travel the world, curing his OCD through writing, and just what does he think of the latest Star Trek offerings?As usual, there are also the Big Questions.Books of his we discuss: Echoes of Extinction (Voidwalker Chronicles series), Crimson Deathbringer seriesFurther info on this and other episodes can be found at AlternateFutures.co.ukIf you're on Wordpress.com, you can follow the podcast at alternatefuturespodcast.wordpress.comFinally, you can follow my articles on science fiction, socio-technological issues, and futurism at alternatefutures.substack.com
In Zack Samo's Exodus 2065, humanity encounters an extinction level event. They flee the Earth for an unknown future, chased by 'demons' from the bowels of the planet. But some choose to stay and face the threat, forging a new future for humanity on Earth.I chat with Zack about being an optometrist who writes science fiction, apocalypses, generation ships, artificial intelligence, and the importance of facing your demons.As usual, there are also the Big Questions.Books of his we discuss: Exodus 2065Further info on this and other episodes, as well as author info and content, can be found at AlternateFutures.co.ukIf you're on Wordpress.com, you can follow the podcast at alternatefuturespodcast.wordpress.comFinally, you can follow my articles on science fiction, socio-technological issues, and futurism at alternatefutures.substack.com
Mori Grant explores many human issues aboard Lucia, the generation ship in Deadliner, the first book of the Lucia Expeditions series. Not the least of these is the nature and importance of motherhood to the survival of a colony in space. We discuss this as well as the reality and fictional device of the generation ship and, of course, AI.As usual, there are also the Big Questions.Books of hers we discuss: Deadliner (Lucia Expedition series)Further info on this and other episodes, as well as author info and content, can be found at AlternateFutures.co.ukIf you're on Wordpress.com, you can follow the podcast at alternatefuturespodcast.wordpress.comFinally, you can follow my articles on science fiction, socio-technological issues, and futurism at alternatefutures.substack.com
"The old world is dying and the new world can't yet be born. Now is the time of monsters." - Antonio Gramsci
Shawn Whitney and I chat about his latest book Deads Rise! the fall of empires, zombies, cycles of death and rebirth, and... autodrive cars!?
As usual, there are also the Big Questions.
Books of his we discuss: Deads Rise! What if Zombies are the Heroes?
Find Shawn Whitney at: shawnwriteshere.com
Further info on this and other episodes, as well as author info and content, can be found at AlternateFutures.co.uk
If you're on Wordpress.com, you can follow the podcast at alternatefuturespodcast.wordpress.com
Finally, you can follow my articles on science fiction, socio-technological issues, and futurism at alternatefutures.substack.com
Peter J Aldin returns, this time with AJ Gordon as we discus solutions to the dangers of navigating hypersapce, writing science-fiction vs fantasy, and whether there is a place in creative work for AI. We also chat about the co-authoring experience, the evolution of extraterrestrial human variants, and settling the solar system.
Chris Kennedy publishing gets a positive mention also.
As usual, there are also the Big Questions.
Books of theirs we discuss: The Outer Reaches trilogy (Iconic, Quaestor, and Far Horizons)
Find Peter J Aldin at: petealdin.com
and AJ Gordon at: alienpress.org
Further info on this and other episodes, as well as author info and content, can be found at AlternateFutures.co.uk
If you're on Wordpress.com, you can follow the podcast at alternatefuturespodcast.wordpress.com
Finally, you can follow my articles on science fiction, socio-technological issues, and futurism at alternatefutures.substack.com
Matt Larkin and I discuss what it's like to be a digital nomad, writing science fiction and fantasy around mythologies, and LitRPG. We also chat about pyschics in space, warning from the past, and the consequences of pursuing truth at any cost.
As usual, there are also the Big Questions.
Books of his we discuss: Sins of Angels series (Echoes of Angels), Cthulu World, Black Ocean, and the Eschaton Cycle
Further info on this and other episodes, as well as author info and content, can be found at AlternateFutures.co.uk
If you're on Wordpress.com, you can follow the podcast at alternatefuturespodcast.wordpress.com
Finally, you can follow my articles on science fiction, socio-technological issues, and futurism at alternatefutures.substack.com
The one where we talk politics! Michael Fedor and I discuss teaching reform, the political landscape, and artificial intelligence. We also delve into learning the craft and business of commercial fiction writing, and the collapse of empires.
As usual, there are also the Big Questions.
Books of his we discuss: What it takes to Kill a Bull Moose, The Tree of Liberty, The Senate Deception
Further info on this and other episodes, as well as author info and content, can be found at AlternateFutures.co.uk
If you're on Wordpress.com, you can follow the podcast at alternatefuturespodcast.wordpress.com
Finally, you can follow my articles on science fiction, socio-technological issues, and futurism at alternatefutures.substack.com
Comments
Download from Google Play
Download from App Store
United States