Episode Details

Douglas Brunt returns to Totally Booked to discuss THE LOST EMPIRE OF EMANUEL NOBEL, the fascinating true story of the Nobel family’s rise in imperial Russia, their pivotal role in the global oil industry, and the revolutionary forces that reshaped the twentieth century. From the origins of the Nobel Prize to the rise of Stalin and the fall of the Romanovs, Brunt shares how he uncovered this forgotten family saga—and why its lessons about power, energy, and history still resonate today.

Bestselling author Ben Mezrich discusses CHECKMATE, his gripping deep dive into the biggest cheating scandal in chess history. From a shocking showdown between world champion Magnus Carlsen and controversial young challenger Hans Niemann to questions about AI, truth, and the future of competition, Mezrich unpacks the real-life drama behind a story that reads like a thriller. He also shares his unique approach to turning headline-making nonfiction into blockbuster books and films.

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