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GAB TALKS

GAB TALKS

Written by: GAB TALKS
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Author interviews with Gabby Olczak, president of the INDEPENDENT PRESS AWARD. Announced every spring, IPA recognizes the best independent press books globally. independentPressAward.com In the fall, the NYC Big Book Award, nycBigBookAward.com, takes book submissions from all publishers and authors, including those published by the Big 5 publishing houses, and awards the best books and audiobooks in over 100 categories. To find out more, visit the websites, or email gabby@independentpressaward.comGAB TALKS Art
Episodes
  • Independent Press Award: GAB TALKS with Dr. Sherrie Poitier-Liscombe
    Dec 18 2025


    Dr. Sherrie Poitier-Liscombe is the creative force behind The Adventures of Sherrie and Chubbie, bringing a wealth of experience in writing and social-emotional learning to the forefront. With a deep passion for literacy and emotional development, Dr. Poitier-Liscombe has dedicated herself to helping children, teens, and families find healing and growth through the written word. Her approach focuses on creating stories that not only entertain but also educate, covering essential topics such as bullying, depression, and responsibility. Dr. Poitier-Liscombe believes that storytelling can be a powerful tool for promoting empathy, self-awareness, and resilience among young readers.
    Through her work, Dr. Poitier-Liscombe seeks to inspire young minds to develop emotional intelligence and cope with life’s challenges. She is committed to offering personalized support and guidance to clients, ensuring that each story is crafted with care and resonates with its intended audience. With a focus on authenticity and compassion, Dr. Poitier-Liscombe remains at the heart of The Adventures of Sherrie and Chubbie, helping to transform writing ideas into impactful stories.
    Dr. Sherrie Poitier a decades old veteran of Broward County Public Schools who has worked with every level student and has expansive knowledge in inspiring at-risk youth to reach maximum potential. She believes in Purpose Driven living and dons a Ph.D. in Marriage & Family Therapy.
    Dr. Poitier is a published children’s author, who has expanded her series to offering books for teens. Dr. Poitier has created an opportunity to help disenfranchised or interested youth in the art of becoming a Wordsmith, while publishing their work. This Counseling Director has honed the skill of impacting youth and using stories and relational connection to change their trajectory. Additionally, she has coordinated The BCPS College & Career Summit for 3 years and dedicates her time to encouraging women through various Ministry avenues.
    Dr. Poitier was High School Counselor of the Year 2016-17, Teacher of the Year 2016-18 and has been NESS mentor for educators since 1999. It is her dream to leave a lasting legacy behind that changes the lives of youth after she has retired from education, whether in its present state or as a strong foundation to build upon for the upcoming counseling professionals.


    Listen to more author interviews at https://www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalks



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    31 mins
  • NYC Big Book Award: GAB TALKS with Ivona Olofsson, author of The Soul of War: Ukraine – Where Every Step Tells Their Story.
    Jan 22 2026

    NYC Big Book Award WINNER in the Cultural Heritage category


    The Soul of War is a profoundly moving account of the human face of conflict, told through the eyes of Ivona Olofsson – therapist, peace worker, and fellow human being. With roots in post-war Poland and a life shaped by the legacy of war, she travels to Ukraine in the midst of an unfolding conflict.


    On train platforms, in refugee camps, hospitals, and among ruins, she meets children, soldiers, mothers, and medics. They share stories that redefine courage, endurance, and what it means to remain human. Interwoven with her own memories, these voices form a narrative where the personal and the universal meet.


    This book is both a testimony and an inner journey – about the invisible scars carried by individuals and communities, about the ways history continues to echo within us, and about the will to stand for something greater than ourselves.


    Written in language that is both poetic and unflinching, The Soul of War captures moments of pain and beauty in a world torn by conflict. It is a powerful, timely contribution to understanding the impact of war and the enduring human capacity for hope.



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    30 mins
  • NYC Big Book Award: GAB TALKS with Michael C. Higgins, PhD, author of Exploring Wine Regions - Mexico
    Jan 8 2026

    Does México make wine? Yes. Any good? Very good. While México is famous for producing Tequila, this book opens our eyes to high-quality Méxican wines. And the phenomenal cuisine and extraordinary tourism.


    Exploring México's Quality Wines and Phenomenal Cuisine Exploring Wine Regions – México is the fourth book in the award-winning series, now exploring the México Wine Regions.


    See https://www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalks for more author interviews.


    This book takes you on a journey to discover these amazing wines; combining wine education, an insider travel guide and spectacular photography. Higgins again dazzles his audience with another informative and beautiful book.
    Tourism in México is outstanding, we all know it. And the Méxican wine regions are no exception. Wine regions are always very beautiful places. Here, the mountains and valleys are ever so enchanting. The wineries are engaging, have lots of tourism activities available, and are especially inviting and friendly with their warm Méxican hospitality. Both connoisseurs and novices turn to this book series for insider information and inspiration. It is a must-have book for expanding your knowledge of México and its wines. With 340 full-color pages and over 600 photographic images, this fourth edition explores México's regions of Valle de Guadalupe (including Ensenada), Guanajuato (including San Miguel de Allende) and Querétaro (with its rich history).
    With breathtaking photography and personal commentary, readers are mesmerized by the world of wine, food and travel. Extensive resources are provided for wine lovers who want to know where to go, what to look for, and how to discover their favorite wines.

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    41 mins
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