Imagine a future that feels disturbingly close to home—where collapse, climate chaos, and corporate power reshape daily life. Spoiler warning: this episode includes major spoilers for Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler, and we dig deep into Lauren Olamina, Earthseed, and the book’s powerful ending.

What we discussed:

• Why Becky Mollencamp chose Parable of the Sower even though she thought she “didn’t like sci-fi.”
• How Octavia Butler’s Afrofuturist lens and Earthseed challenge the usual dystopian story.
• Why community, hope, and empathy are central to Lauren Olamina’s leadership.
• How Butler’s prescience shows up in corporatization, climate collapse, and social unrest.
• Why the book raises big feminist questions about power, age gaps, and who gets to lead.

Purchase the book

Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler

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Also mentioned

• The Handmaid's Tale
• Sky Full of Elephants
• Kindred
• Ender's Game
• Six of Crows
• Harry Potter
• Lord of the Rings
• Emergent Strategy
• Braiding Sweetgrass
• Parable of the Talents
• Outlander

About Becky Mollenkamp

Becky Mollenkamp is a feminist business coach, podcaster, and founder of the Feminist Podcasters Collective. She helps creators and business owners build more intentional, inclusive, and values-aligned work.

👉 Connect with Becky Mollenkamp: https://beckymollenkamp.com

About Sci-Fi Book Pod

Sci-Fi Book Pod is hosted by Space Admiral Kandas and Space Cadet Shane, Second Class. Each episode explores science fiction and speculative fiction through a playful, thoughtful, and often feminist lens.

📨 Subscribe for more episodes and updates: https://scifibookpod.com

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