Lasers Dragons And Keyboards
A podcast for readers and writers of science fiction, fantasy, and speculative fiction.
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S4 Ep14 - Jean Rabe
03/25/2024
S4 Ep14 - Jean Rabe
I write with dogs wrapped around my feet. I get to wear sandals or bedroom slippers to work, and old, comfortable clothes. When the weather is fine I get to write on my back porch. I love summer. I write mysteries and fantasies because life is too short to be limited to one genre. I started getting published when I was 12, studied journalism at Northern Illinois University, then went to work as a news reporter…eventually for Scripps Howard, where I managed their Western Kentucky bureau. Getting itchy feet, I moved to Wisconsin and went to work for TSR, Inc., the then-producers of the Dungeons & Dragons game. I dipped my itchy feet into the fiction pool and wrote Dragonlance novels for several years. Now I’m back in Illinois, my land surrounded by train tracks that offer music to write by. And there are plenty of dogs in the neighborhood to provide an accompaniment. I am a recipient of the Faust, the grand master award of the International Association of Media Tie-In Writers, and the Illinois Author Project’s Soon-to-be Famous Award. I’ve been on the USA Today’s Bestseller list a few times … ah, I’ve never hit the Times. I’ve written more than forty SF, fantasy, mystery, and adventure novels (including a couple of ghosted projects), more short stories than I care to count, and I’ve edited magazines and anthologies. When I’m writing I listen to classical guitar and 60s rock … depending on my subject matter. And at every good opportunity I toss tennis balls for my cadre of dogs. - Always hire a copy editor to make sure everything is caught. - How can you not afford an editor? - Read the manuscript backwards for editing purposes. - Buy ads - compare and contrast where is going to be best per novel. - Once a month newsletter for Jean! THIS EPISODE WAS ORIGINALLY BROADCAST ON FEBRUARY 17, 2024 ON
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S4 Ep 13 - Kickstarter Roundtable!
03/19/2024
S4 Ep 13 - Kickstarter Roundtable!
In this episode, we talked with J.J. Johnson, Jason Joyner, and Merrie Destafano about getting your Author Kickstarter going. Quick points: Kickstarter for Authors FB group $500 is a good, solid number to shoot for Keep holidays in mind when planning when to run your campaign Backer update swaps w/other KS authors. Make sure you have your book and graphics complete before launching the campaign. Find out more about the authors at their websites: THIS EPISODE ORIGINALLY AIRED ON JANUARY 27, 2024 ON
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S4 E12 - Pam Halter
03/16/2024
S4 E12 - Pam Halter
Pam Halter was a home-schooling mom for nine years, has been a children’s book author since 1995, a freelance children’s book editor since 2006, and was the children’s book editor for Fruitbearer Publishing until January 2023 when the publishing house closed. She’s the author of Fairyeater, a YA fantasy novel published by Love2ReadLove2Write Publishing, and Willoughby and Friends, a picture book series about friendship featuring Willoughby, who is a dragon. Pam lives in Southern New Jersey with her husband, Daryl, special needs adult daughter, Anna, and four cats. When she’s not writing, Pam enjoys reading, quilting, gardening, cooking, playing the piano, Bible study, and walking long country roads where she discovers fairy homes, emerging dragons, and trees eating wood gnomes. You can find out more about Pam and Willoughby at
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LDK S4 E11 - Thomas Doscher
03/11/2024
LDK S4 E11 - Thomas Doscher
Thomas Doscher is an author and retired Air Force journalist with a degree in history from the University of Maryland University College. During his Air Force career, Thomas wrote news and feature stories for the Air Force and joint military publications across 20 years and three deployments. Thomas retired from the Air Force in 2021 and now spends his time writing and being with his wife and two sons in Illinois. We had a delightful chat with author Thomas Doscher, primarily discussing his upcoming book in the Vixen War Bride series. Highlights included: Reading 'Blossoms in the Wind', cultural mixing, being a history nerd Having an epic troll in the book, matching tone of the book with the subplots. Upcoming projects! American Isakai Getting punched by wife for editing. 20 Books to 50K Don't sweat the marketing! Be sure to check out Thomas's books on . THIS EPISODE WAS LIVESTREAMED ON ON AUGUST 12, 2023.
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S4 Ep10: Paul Regnier
03/09/2024
S4 Ep10: Paul Regnier
Paul Regnier is a speculative fiction author. He believes one of the closest things to magic on this earth is imagination. His favorite type of story is filled with adventure, humor, and heartfelt moments between characters. He likes to dream up worlds of fantasy, sci-fi, mystery, and the supernatural. Sometimes they end up in a book. Paul is the writer of a new fantasy book called Bard Tidings, as well as the Luke and Bandit cozy mystery series, the Paranormia series, and the Space Drifters series. Paul lives in Treasure Valley, Idaho, with his wife and two children. You can learn more about Paul and his books at THIS EPISODE WAS LIVESTREAMED ON ON JULY 22, 2023.
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S4 Ep9: John Otte & How to Win at Kickstarters
06/26/2023
S4 Ep9: John Otte & How to Win at Kickstarters
We had the incomparable on the show this week! John W. Otte is a husband, a father, a Lutheran pastor, and a big ol’ geek. He graduated from Concordia University in St. Paul, Minnesota, with a theatre major, and then from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri. By night, he writes unusual stories of geeky grace. He lives in the Kansas City area with his wife and two boys. On today's show, we discussed his recent forays into Kickstarter campaigns, both for his novel and forthcoming sequel, Drawn Through Blood. His influence to try the Kickstarter method? We also hear about balancing his life as full-time Lutheran pastor and writing novels, and the challenges there. Many shout outs today! All links to Amazon help us stay up and running! Whether you buy a book or a TV, help us stay in the black by using the links to make your next purchase on Amazon by using our affiliate link.
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LDK S4 Ep 8: Cindy Koepp
06/12/2023
LDK S4 Ep 8: Cindy Koepp
For the second time, we had Cindy Koepp on, author of LitRPG novels and graphic novels, among other things! We had a blast learning about the process of turning a novel into a comic book, what it takes to do in-person events at comic-cons, and even a little bit about hooking. (Get your head out of the gutter! It's a legit thing!) Originally from Michigan, Cindy Koepp combined a love of pedagogy and ecology into a 14-year career as an elementary science specialist. After teaching four-footers -- that's height, not leg count, she pursued a Master's in Adult Learning with a specialization in Performance Improvement. Her published works include science fiction novels, fantasy novels, a passel of short stories, and educator resources. When she isn't reading or writing, Cindy is currently working as a tech writer, hat collector, quilter, crafter, and weird joke teller.
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LDK L4 Ep 7: H.L. Burke
06/09/2023
LDK L4 Ep 7: H.L. Burke
We got to hear quite a bit about how Heidi has jumped from many different genres to focus on Superhero Romance. It's a niche that she greatly enjoys and hasn't been able to find many clean examples of. From there, we moved on to favorite characters, what it's like to put yourself in the mind of who started out as a side character and suddenly needing to write a tale about them specifically, and how she researches. To the latter point: ex-marine husband! Snails were mentioned, of course. We love having Heidi on! She's an absolute blast in person and on the show! Follow Heidi at: On Amazon:
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LDK S4 E6 - Kara Swanson
04/17/2023
LDK S4 E6 - Kara Swanson
Today we had Kara Swanson, author of the Heirs of Neverland books, on the show! This SoCal native enjoys running the Authors Conservatory, the writers school she co-founded, and is hard at work at a new series focusing on the phoenix.
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LDK S4 E5: The Return of the Slytherin
04/10/2023
LDK S4 E5: The Return of the Slytherin
We are absolutely delighted to have back on our show Becky Dean! Becky, also known as B.L. Dean, is the author of her debut space opera novel, Rogue Pursuit, which released in March. In today's podcast, we discuss writing for two different major publishing houses, the differences between them, as well as how she came up with the ideas for Rogue Pursuit and its sequels (all coming out by June 2023.) We last had Becky on for S4 E2 discussing her contemporary YA romance which is laced with tons of geeky references. Becky Dean is a fan of adventures both real and fictional. When she’s not writing or traveling, she can be found drinking tea, watching science fiction shows or Jane Austen adaptations, or quoting The Lord of the Rings. Though she’s a proud Baylor grad and lives in Texas with her husband, she remains a Southern California girl at heart. You can find out more about her books at .
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LDK S4 E4: What's His Name Again? Oh, Right. It's Aaron!
04/08/2023
LDK S4 E4: What's His Name Again? Oh, Right. It's Aaron!
Under the guise of testing some borked settings, we reinterviewed our very own Aaron DeMott who just released his third novel, "Etherno 2: Catgirl Overload". We discuss everything from needing to do rants (look forward to updates from Patreon!) to the inspiration of his books to finding time to write while working full-time and raising four kids. As one third of the LDK group, Aaron is hugely busy, and the fact he still wants to do the podcast is amazing in and of itself, so it was fun to just sit down and discuss his books for a change. Also in the episode: some personal updates from all three of us. (Hint: two of us are married to each other now!) Check out Aaron's books at .
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S4 Ep 3 - Dawn Shipman
04/08/2023
S4 Ep 3 - Dawn Shipman
We have with us Josh's aunt this episode, the amazing Dawn Shipman! Dawn Shipman is an award-winning author whose fantasy stories bristle with believable characters fighting fierce battles in strange worlds. Teens of all ages will love these tales of soaring wonder, ferocious loyalty, and heart-stopping romance. Kingdom Lost, the first book in the Lost Stones of Argonia series, is her debut novel. We had a blast talking to Dawn and we know you'll love her too! For more information about Dawn's books, check out her website at:
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LOST EPISODE: Post-Apoc and UF worldbuilding with Josh Chadd
10/03/2022
LOST EPISODE: Post-Apoc and UF worldbuilding with Josh Chadd
This is a lost episode! The producer has no idea what we discussed, but it's with Josh Chadd. He's awesome. Listen, buy his books, you know the deal.
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LDK S4 Ep. 2: Becky Dean
09/30/2022
LDK S4 Ep. 2: Becky Dean
Today, we talk to Becky Dean, author of debut YA Romance novel Love and Other Great Expectations. Not our normal fare, but Becky is completely awesome and also about to release a series of Space Opera books in 2023! Becky Dean is a fan of adventures both real and fictional. When she’s not writing or traveling, she can be found drinking tea, watching science fiction shows or Jane Austen adaptations, or quoting The Lord of the Rings. Though she’s a proud Baylor grad and lives in Texas with her husband, she remains a Southern California girl at heart. (Please note there was some technical issues with our recording for Becky's feed. Producer was unable to fix in post.) -- Watch live at
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LDK S4 Ep. 1 - Travis Inman
09/18/2022
LDK S4 Ep. 1 - Travis Inman
We're BACK! And we've got Travis W. Inman with us, discussing his newest book, Chrome World. Travis W. Inman grew up in the ranch country of West Texas and worked as a cowboy for his first 20 years. Travis graduated from seminary in Dallas, Texas, and later served a year in the mission field in Mexico and South America. Upon his return home, he married Sarah, his wife of more than 25 years. They have two children whom they successfully home schooled. Over the years, Travis has applied his skills to a variety of fields, ranging from marketing and real estate to criminal justice and law enforcement. Travis served in the United States Army where he overcame a devastating hip injury and was able to walk again despite the odds. Writing is a life-long passion for Travis. His short stories and poems have been selected for publication in a variety of newspapers and on Internet sites. Travis’ writing includes children’s literature, action adventure, short stories, one act plays, love stories, westerns, sci-fi, thrillers, and drama. Travis and Sarah Inman currently reside in Northern Virginia. Visit Travis online:
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S3 E1 - Pineapple Ice Cream and You
11/01/2021
S3 E1 - Pineapple Ice Cream and You
We're back in the saddle again with award winning author Steve Rzasa! Check out our chat as we discuss the life a librarian, cool cover designs, and working with a collaborator.
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LDK - THE LOST EPISODES - Ep 2: Etherno
05/26/2020
LDK - THE LOST EPISODES - Ep 2: Etherno
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LDK - THE LOST EPISODES - Ep 1 with Amy Brock McNew
05/23/2020
LDK - THE LOST EPISODES - Ep 1 with Amy Brock McNew
In our "lost episodes" files, we interview UF and Paranormal Romance author, Amy Brock McNew.
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LDK S2 Ep 3 - Plan For Your Success
01/14/2020
LDK S2 Ep 3 - Plan For Your Success
Due to a Midwestern snowstorm, Liberty was unable to join Aaron & Josh in this spectacular interview with sci-fi legend, Nick Cole. A former soldier and actor, Nick shares insights into his writing process, tabletop gaming, indie publishing, and who you should pay attention to in this world where everybody is a guru in the indie-sphere.
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LDK S2 Ep2: The Bleeding Will Eventually Stop
11/11/2019
LDK S2 Ep2: The Bleeding Will Eventually Stop
We sat down and discussed Jason Joyner's debut novel, Launch. As well as what led to the creation of the Realm Makers Consortium in 2015, and how great it is to be a part of a writing community that shares bonds in areas of both spiritual and fandom. Be sure to check out the stream on Twitch.tv/LDK_Podcast for great interaction on the chat! Where to Find Jason + other links:
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LDK S2 Ep 1 - Dinosaurs, Soda Pop, & Snot
11/04/2019
LDK S2 Ep 1 - Dinosaurs, Soda Pop, & Snot
We sat down with J.J. Johnson, author of Iggy & Oz: The Plastic Dinos of Doom this week on LDK! We discussed the challenges of writing for middle grade, giant snot blobs, and insights into marketing from a marketing professional. Oh, and there was laughter. A. Lot. Of. Laughter. (But what else do you expect from us?) Links:
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LDK S2 Ep 0 - Just a Few Technical Difficulties (re-meet the hosts!)
10/26/2019
LDK S2 Ep 0 - Just a Few Technical Difficulties (re-meet the hosts!)
We're excited to be re-launching the podcast! And today, we did a test run of our new recording setup. Be sure to join us on Twitch.tv/LDK_Podcast for future episodes!
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LDK 77 - The History of Fantasy
04/25/2018
LDK 77 - The History of Fantasy
We were delighted to have with us NYT bestselling author, Ed Greenwood, on this week's episode of the show! For those not in the know, Mr. Greenwood is the creator of The Forgotten Realms. Note to listeners: we had not only our producer missing, but the guys had to jury-rig a setup to record. Mr. Greenwood joined us over the phone, which was not what we had planned—but we were delighted to have him despite our technical difficulties. (Liberty's hair may or may not be more grey after editing...) Also, for our listeners with sensitive ears, there is some mild swearing in this episode. The guys mostly let Mr. Greenwood talk, and as such, we think this is an episode best listened to rather than trying to sum it up. But we do get a history lesson on publishing and research. My word, do we have it easy nowadays. Everything in a home exists to support bookshelves. ~ Ed Greenwood Links:
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LDK 76 - Intellectual Property Law with Steven Fairchild
04/24/2018
LDK 76 - Intellectual Property Law with Steven Fairchild
We've got some great insight into intellectual property law with attorney Steve Fairchild. It may sound boring, but as authors, it's important we understand at least a little bit about the law. We start things out with an overview of what's encompassed in intellectual property, and then it really gets fun! In Episode 76: How biology degrees relates to intellectual property How Steve gets his clients Can you use the term "lightsaber™" in your book? Does I.P. law translate to other countries? Finding an I.P. attorney...and do you need one? What's the difference between an I.P. attorney and an agent? When does copyright exist? Do you need to file your copyright with the copyright office? What happens when your work has been pirated? Can I.P. law be funny? How Steven actually informed an episode of Suits--and how they got it wrong! What Steven finds frustrating in fiction about the law Bunny trails! Do I need to copyright my idea formally with the copyright office? Fair use law Steve's advice on courtroom scenes Steve's favorite movies about legal stuff Links:
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LDK 75 - Alien Artifacts with K.M. Dailey
01/09/2018
LDK 75 - Alien Artifacts with K.M. Dailey
We sit down with physics teacher by day, thriller author by night, Kayla--K.M.--Dailey this episode. K.M. is the winner of our flash short story contest with Laura VanArendonk Baugh to write a short story featuring Samwise Gamgee (LOTR) and River Song (Doctor Who.) K.M.'s story had us in stitches, and we're sure you'll see why we picked the story as our winner. We talk about our Harry Potter houses, Kayla's inspiration for the short story, Christmas trees out of books, Liberty admits to having lower standards in her reading, the ever-present need for more bookcases, , the new doctor on Doctor Who and Kayla's and Liberty's concerns about the direction, Doctor Who indoctrination (no pun intended!), Kayla's goal of 100 rejections in 2018 (!!!), Captain America...or Captain Jack Sparrow? Find out more about . Kayla's book recommendations: - Orson Scott Card - Lemony Snicket - Cixin Liu For a transcript of K.M. Dailey's short story, visit our website at:
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LDK 74 - Don't Ask Permission To Create Art
11/21/2017
LDK 74 - Don't Ask Permission To Create Art
This week we have hopeless romantic, H.L. (Heidi) Burke on the show. She's totally obsessed with dragons, but we know a few people who also are, so we won't hold it against her. In episode 74: The evolution of a pantser to a plotter Guess which of Heidi's offspring might be a future Bond villain! Lyrics in music? Yes or no? The adventures of being a military wife Why Heidi doesn't think she's a very deep person. Working with an editor when you've been self-published first How Sarah picks her release dates Aaron warns new authors about vanity presses Who is Theodore?? As always, check our website for full show notes!
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LDK 73 - Coiled with H.L. Burke
10/16/2017
LDK 73 - Coiled with H.L. Burke
We visit with author H.L. Burke about her latest book, Coiled!
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LDK 72 - Exploring Splickety Publishing Group
10/12/2017
LDK 72 - Exploring Splickety Publishing Group
We have Andrew Winch on this week, who is the executive editor with Splickety Publishing group where he's worked with a whole host of authors including Jerry B. Jenkins, Tosca Lee, and Robert Liparulo. He's a full time physical therapist when he's not running around with Ben Wolf.
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LDK 71 - The Magic of Lorehaven
10/05/2017
LDK 71 - The Magic of Lorehaven
We sit down with E. Stephen Burnett to discuss the upcoming e-magazine, Lorehaven.
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LDK 70 - Get Words On Paper
09/27/2017
LDK 70 - Get Words On Paper
On this episode, we have Paul Smith, friend of previous guests, CW Briar and Jon Brhel. He's author of Jason and the Draconauts! Paul Smith lives in upstate New York with his wife and two sons, where he works with emotionally disturbed and mentally ill children. He earned a master’s degree in social sciences from Binghamton University in 1999. A lifelong love of science fiction, fantasy, and superhero stories influences Paul’s writing. His most recent work was a popular weekly online series that generated over 20,000 views. Jason and the Draconauts is his first novel. In Episode 70: The pitfalls of pantsing The guys give Liberty a hard time for ditching her outline Liberty keeps bringing up Scrivener... Bluetooth keyboards! Why reading out loud is an important editing tool. Paul's techniques for battling writer's block and why he hates frustration. Paul's thoughts on conventions and selling books on them. Whether FB ads are worth the paper they're printed on... Including fandom quotes in our books! What do your books teach you in the course of the writing? Get words on paper Links! (audiobook link) by John Scalzi (on audiobook!) (again!) Dan Brown's As always, you can find complete show notes at
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