Desideratum

Theresa Bakken
  • 5.0 (8)
  • BOOKS

For audiobook lovers searching for your next listen, Desideratum features compelling scenes from audiobooks in all genres and sincere chats with the authors, narrators and industry geniuses making the immersive magic of audio storytelling happen.

  1. Starman After Midnight: A Conversation with Scott Semegran and Brian P. Craig

    2D AGO

    Starman After Midnight: A Conversation with Scott Semegran and Brian P. Craig

    Join host Theresa Bakken for a captivating conversation with Austin-based author Scott Semegran and Brooklyn-born narrator Brian P. Craig about their latest collaboration, Starman After Midnight. This literary fiction novel explores unlikely friendships, neighborhood mysteries, and the power of human connection in our divided times. Discover the story behind a naked man appearing on porch cameras, missing pets, and how two neighbors with opposing political views find common ground. Scott and Brian discuss the creative process, the art of audiobook narration, and how weather, technology, and serendipity weave through this unique tale. Episode Length: ~52 minutes Scott Semegran - Austin, Texas-based author of literary fiction, including The Codger and the Sparrow (featured on Desideratum in 2024) and Starman After Midnight. Scott writes character-driven stories with humor, heart, and unexpected depth. Brian P. Craig - Audiobook narrator with an acting background who grew up in Brooklyn, New York. Brian brings Scott's characters to life with nuanced performances that capture both the humor and emotional complexity of the stories. [0:00 - 4:30] Introduction & Recording Setup The challenges of home recording studiosManaging temperature and equipment noiseThe gift of getting lost in creative work[4:30 - 14:00] The Narrator-Author Partnership How Brian's voice blends perfectly with Scott's narrative styleThe difference between "by the numbers" mysteries and literary fictionWhy this collaboration works so well[14:00 - 23:00] Physical Description & Cinematic Writing Scott's vivid character descriptions (the "human-sized farm egg" moment)How detailed imagery helps narrationThe cinematic quality of the storytelling[23:00 - 35:00] Literary Fiction vs. Genre Character-driven, voice-forward storytellingWhy readers either love it or hate itThe importance of humor in dark narratives[35:00 - 48:00] The Neighborhood as Character How proximity forces connectionThe role of weather (ice storms, tornadoes, drought) as a unifying forceReal-life inspiration from Austin's 2022 ice storm[48:00 - 1:05:00] Unlikely Friendship Across Political Divides Seth (progressive writer) and Big Dave (MAGA plumber)How the friendship develops despite ideological differencesThe importance of face-to-face interaction vs. online conflict[1:05:00 - 1:20:00] The Starman Mystery A naked man appearing on neighborhood security camerasMissing and dead petsThe "Hey Neighbor" app and social media hysteriaThe yellow asterisk that gives Starman his name[1:20:00 - 1:30:00] Featured Audio Excerpt Hank the Uber driver's storyThe great horned owl sceneBrian's masterful pacing and vocal performance[1:30:00 - 1:45:00] Technology & Community The double-edged sword of neighborhood appsHow online information differs from face-to-face conversationThe physicality of in-person conflict and resolution[1:45:00 - 2:00:00] Unexpected Elements The Farmer's Almanac as common groundRural vs. urban perspectivesFinding shared language across divides[2:00:00 - 2:15:00] Magic & Mystery The Melon Girl and magical realismNature's unpredictabilityThe Log Lady inspiration from Twin Peaks[2:15:00 - 2:30:00] The Audiobook Format Why this experimental structure works in audio10 poems, 10 short stories, and a 10-chapter novellaThe challenge of multiple narrative formsPurchase the audiobook from Libro.fm to support your local independent bookstore. Here's the Desideratum Podcast affiliate link:https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=25361&awinaffid=970873&ued=https%3A%2F%2Flibro.fm%2Faudiobooks%2F9798218769482 Scott Semegran Website: https://scottsemegran.com/Brian P. Craig Website: https://brianpcraigvoice.actor/

    53 min
  2. Just Emilia with Jennifer Oko

    10/04/2025

    Just Emilia with Jennifer Oko

    In this episode of Desideratum, host Theresa Bakken sits down with author Jennifer Oko to discuss her latest novel, "Just Emilia." Set in a Washington, DC elevator, the story brings together three women (ages 17, 47, and 77) at pivotal moments in their lives, forcing them to confront a shared trauma and unravel the threads connecting their past, present, and future. Jennifer shares the inspiration behind the novel, the challenges of writing across generations, and the personal connections that shaped her characters. The conversation explores themes of memory, responsibility, aging, and the enduring impact of trauma, as well as the unique setting of DC and the symbolism of the ginkgo tree. Listeners will enjoy insights into the writing process, the realities of publishing with an independent press, and the essential role of storytelling and art in our lives. Whether you're a fan of literary fiction, stories about family and self-discovery, or simply love hearing from passionate storytellers, this episode offers a thoughtful and heartfelt look at what it means to grow, heal, and embrace each new chapter. Connect with Jennifer Oko at www.JenniferOko.com and get the rest of the story in "Just Emilia" from www.Regal House Publishing.com

    40 min
  3. The Cure for Women with Lydia Reeder and Sara Sheckells

    08/24/2025

    The Cure for Women with Lydia Reeder and Sara Sheckells

    In this episode, we explore the remarkable story behind "The Cure for Women: Dr. Mary Putnam Jacobi and the Challenge to Victorian Medicine that Changed Women’s Lives Forever." Host Theresa Bakken is joined by author Lydia Reeder and audiobook narrator Sara Sheckells to discuss the life and legacy of Dr. Mary Putnam Jacobi—a pioneering scientist and physician who broke barriers for women in medicine during the 19th century. Key Highlights: Mary Putnam Jacobi’s Journey: From a publisher’s daughter in New York to a trailblazing doctor, Jacobi overcame societal and institutional barriers, becoming a force in both science and women’s rights.Historical Context: The episode delves into the challenges women faced in accessing education and medical training, the suffrage movement, and the prevailing (often harmful) medical theories about women’s health.Scientific Breakthroughs: Jacobi’s research debunked myths about women’s bodies, especially regarding menstruation and fertility, and helped introduce evidence-based medicine to America.Personal Connections: Lydia Reeder shares how her own family history inspired her research, while Sara Sheckells reflects on the importance of telling women’s stories and the parallels between Jacobi’s era and today.Broader Impact: The conversation touches on the collective efforts of women in history, the importance of public education, and the ongoing relevance of Jacobi’s courage and scientific rigor.Audiobook Sample: Listeners hear a vivid scene from Jacobi’s youth, capturing her awe and inspiration as she peers through a microscope—a moment that set her on her groundbreaking path. Get The Cure for Women audiobook from Libro.fm https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=25361&awinaffid=970873&ued=https%3A%2F%2Flibro.fm%2Faudiobooks%2F9781666681376 Colorado Humanities Colorado Book Awards https://coloradohumanities.org/programs/colorado-book-awards/ Sara Sheckells narrator https://sarasounds.com/ Lydia Reeder author https://lydiareeder.com/

    40 min
  4. SHARP 14 Simple Ways to Improve Your Life with Brain Science

    08/01/2025

    SHARP 14 Simple Ways to Improve Your Life with Brain Science

    This is a story about getting focused and creative. It's a non-fiction handbook and guidebook to your brain and what current brain science tells us about how to thrive, relax and even work better with others. The author is a cognitive scientist intent on turning good science into good life strategies. I am so excited to feature the audiobook SHARP 14 Simple Ways to Improve Your Life with Brain Science by Therese Huston on this Desideratum. Thanks to the team at publisher Dreamscape Media including Producer Pete Cross and Editor Cody Stephenson. And, thanks to this episode’s sponsor Pozotron (the audiobook prep and proofing service I use on every single audiobook project I work on). Here’s an affiliate link to Libro dot fm to get the SHARP audiobook with all its science based brain hacks. Here’s a link to the episode sponsor Pozotron. And, here’s the link to the late Reverend Frederick Buchner profile on PBS. I hope like me you will find ways to support PBS and NPR at your local level. As always, thanks for being here. Thanks for listening.

    1h 4m
  5. Annie Bot with Sierra Greer and Jennifer Jill Araya

    07/03/2025

    Annie Bot with Sierra Greer and Jennifer Jill Araya

    This is a story about a robot. Annie Bot was created to be the perfect companion and girlfriend for her human owner Doug. She's designed to adapt and learn to get better at serving and meeting his needs. It's a story about what and how she learns. You follow her to her tune up appointments with technicians, you ride a bike with her, and feel her sentience and consciousness grow even while you are continually reminded she's a robot and needs to plug into a charger regularly. On this episode of Desideratum we're talking about the disarmingly, provocative, edgy novel Annie Bot with author Sierra Greer and narrator Jennifer Jill Araya. Jennifer is an Audie award winning narrator - with incredible range and skill you will hear in the audiobook samples. And, author Sierra Greer has been racking up the awards for this book.  Annie Bot just won the Arthur C. Clarke Award which is an award started by and named for the author of the 2001 space Odysessy. It's a yearly award. Annie Bot is the 39th winner. Back in 1987, Margaret Atwood's The Handmaids Tale won the Arthur C Clarke.  Annie Bot was also named a Best Book of the Year by Scientific American, Harper's Bazaar and NPR - a Best Science Fiction and Fantasy Book of the Year by the Washington Post and Elle. I hope you enjoy meeting these comfort zone pushing, deep thinking and award winning storytellers as much as I did. Jennifer's websites: https://www.starvingartistnomore.com/https://www.jenniferjillaraya.com/ Sierra's website: https://www.sierragreerwriter.com/ Libro.fm Affiliate Link directly to the Annie Bot audiobook: https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=25361&awinaffid=970873&ued=https%3A%2F%2Flibro.fm%2Faudiobooks%2F9780063312722

    59 min
  6. Sideline Confidential with Brooke Bentley and Julia Whelan

    06/19/2025

    Sideline Confidential with Brooke Bentley and Julia Whelan

    Empathy, Dreams, and Breaking Barriers: The Story Behind 'Sideline Confidential' In this episode, author Brooke Bentley and renowned narrator Julia Whelan talk about their collaboration on the audiobook 'Sideline Confidential.' Brooke shares how her real-life experiences as a sports reporter for the NFL informed the creation of her protagonist, Blake, who navigates the challenges of a male-dominated industry. Julia discusses her new venture, Audiobrary, a revolutionary platform for audiobook listeners and narrators. Both women explore themes of empathy, personal growth, and the importance of staying true to one's unique vision. The episode includes a reading from 'Sideline Confidential,' showcasing the powerful storytelling that ties their conversation together. 00:00 A Dream Job in the NFL 00:41 Meeting the Narrator Julia Whelan 02:10 Challenges in a Male-Dominated Industry 03:00 Brooke's Real-Life Experiences 05:04 The Power of Storytelling in Sports 08:15 Universal Themes of Women in Male-Dominated Spaces 13:58 Julia Whelan's Audiobook Industry Insights 24:16 The Journey from Screenplay to Book 25:01 Character Development and Themes 26:32 Balancing Career and Personal Life 27:16 Writing Process and Achievements 29:40 Redefining Dreams and Success 38:37 Empathy and Storytelling 42:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Helpful links:  https://www.brookebentley.com/ https://audiobrary.com/ https://theresabakkennarrator.com/

    44 min
  7. Party Planning Can Be Murder by Kerry Ann King and Kerry Schafer

    04/24/2025

    Party Planning Can Be Murder by Kerry Ann King and Kerry Schafer

    This is a story about a young woman, a small town wedding party planner, whose curiosity and gut instincts lead to some amateur sleuthing and some shenanigans. We're talking about the audio book Party Planning Can Be Murder, and our conversation, like the book, starts off talking about funerals. You're gonna hear why funerals have made their way into so many of this author's stories. You'll also hear about her favorite part of the writing process. It's this aha moment she gets sometimes late in the story. And, you'll find out why a Viking is an integral part of her own life story. I hope you enjoy this conversation with Kerry Ann King, also known as Kerry Schafer. As much as I did. Here's how to find out more about Kerry: https://allthingskerry.com/ Here's the link to get the audiobook: https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=25361&awinaffid=970873&ued=https%3A%2F%2Flibro.fm%2Faudiobooks%2F9781666692297

    34 min
  8. Discipline by Debra Spark

    04/22/2025

    Discipline by Debra Spark

    This is a story full of secrets and surprises and suspense. In one of the first scenes, it's 2018, and you are stumbling through a snowstorm with an art appraiser who might just be freezing to death. You're not sure. Again and again, author Debra Spark caught me off guard and drew me in. She pulled together a storyline about a teenage boy sent to an abusive boarding school in the 1970s (based on a real school she researched). She ties that storyline back to the art appraiser's own messy relationship with her teenage son today, and to an art theft and mystery that the appraiser gets sucked into. The art mystery spirals around these three valuable portrait paintings of children from the 1930s. It wasn't easy for me to talk to Debra about her work without spoilers for you, but we did it and I hope you'll be intrigued enough after listening to seek out the rest of the story. The novel is called Discipline, and this is my conversation with author Debra Spark on the Desideratum Podcast.

    33 min
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About

For audiobook lovers searching for your next listen, Desideratum features compelling scenes from audiobooks in all genres and sincere chats with the authors, narrators and industry geniuses making the immersive magic of audio storytelling happen.

Information

  • Creator
    Theresa Bakken
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    113
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Theresa Bakken
  • Show Website
    Desideratum