Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors Podcast

Papa Rick Harris
  • 5.0 (4)
  • STORIES FOR KIDS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

“Adventures in the Heart of Children’s Book Authors” is an award-winning podcast dedicated to empowering aspiring children’s book authors and readers by sharing stories and insights from published children’s book authors about the publishing process. Podcast Overview The podcast aims to demystify the journey of becoming a children’s book author by featuring self-published (hybrid) and independently published children’s book authors who share their experiences in writing, illustrating, publishing and marketing their books. Each episode introduces listeners to a different children’s book author, providing a behind-the-scenes look at their creative processes and the challenges they faced along the way. Themes and Content Empowerment and Inspiration: The podcast encourages aspiring authors by demonstrating that their dreams of authorship are achievable. It highlights various paths to purchase and the importance of a supportive “Dream Team” of professionals who can assist with the process. Diverse Voices: The show features a wide range of children’s book authors, showcasing their unique stories and the themes they explore. This diversity allows listeners to gain insights into perspectives and styles within children’s literature. Episode Highlights: Notable episodes include discussions with authors about their specific books, Alison Thompson’s “Sunny Steps Love to Dance,” which encourages children to embrace dance, and Judy McGee’s “Penny Girl’s Rescue, “which tells the story of a rescue dog. Sources Listening Options Listeners can tune in to the podcast on various platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, and numerous others. Each episode offers valuable insights for aspiring authors and children’s book readers alike, making it a rich resource for anyone interested in children’s literature. This podcast not only serves as a platform for children’s book authors to share their journey but also aims to inspire and educate listeners about the art and business of writing children’s books. adventuresintheheartofchildrensbookauthors.com kaboosetherockymountainbear.com

  1. How to Transform Memories into the Sweet Playdate Club

    2D AGO

    How to Transform Memories into the Sweet Playdate Club

    Luz, a newly minted children's book author, shares her profound experiences and insights regarding her debut work, "Sweet Playdate Club." This episode delves into the significance of being a children's book author, as Luz reflects on the emotional resonance her storytelling creates within families. She recounts heartwarming anecdotes, including the delightful impact her book has had on children, transforming reluctant readers into avid ones. Furthermore, Luz elaborates on the inspiration derived from her daughter, which served as the catalyst for her writing journey, emphasizing the importance of cultural appreciation and familial bonding through shared activities such as baking. This conversation not only illuminates the creative process behind her book but also serves as a beacon of encouragement for aspiring authors to pursue their dreams with vigor and determination. As the podcast unfolds, Luz shares the intricacies of her publishing journey, detailing her collaboration with a hybrid publisher and the challenges she faced in bringing her book to fruition. She discusses the importance of selecting the right illustrator, emphasizing the need for visual storytelling that complements her narrative. The conversation also touches on practical aspects of book publishing, such as distribution channels and marketing strategies, providing aspiring authors with valuable insights into the publishing landscape. Luz's journey is not merely one of personal achievement; it is a call to action for others to pursue their passions and create stories that reflect their unique experiences. She encourages listeners to embrace their creativity, work through doubts, and understand that the path to publication, while fraught with challenges, is ultimately rewarding and filled with opportunities for connection and impact. Takeaways:The essence of being a children's book author is rooted in the profound connections made through storytelling and shared experiences.Luz's journey to authorship was catalyzed by a desire for personal fulfillment during challenging times, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.The inspiration for Sweet Playdate Club emerged from Luz's daughter, highlighting the importance of familial bonds and shared culinary adventures.The process of writing children's books requires continuous creativity and a commitment to capturing the authenticity of childhood experiences.Luz emphasizes the significance of community and collaboration in the writing process, including the importance of an illustrator who resonates with her vision.The book Sweet Playdate Club serves not only as a source of entertainment but also as a means to foster conversations about cultural appreciation and teamwork. Links referenced in this episode:sweetplaydateclub BookInstagram Companies Mentioned:AmazonMiriam LaundryIngram SparksAdvocate Art

    48 min
  2. The Journey from Hollywood to Children's Literature: Rusty Austin's Story

    FEB 10

    The Journey from Hollywood to Children's Literature: Rusty Austin's Story

    The featured guest in this podcast episode is Rusty Austin, a published children's author who has transitioned from a successful 35-year career in the entertainment industry to writing engaging poetry for children. He has authored several books, including "Awesome Bird the Pelican," and has collaborated with students to create illustrations for his work, thereby fostering creativity and engagement with the natural world among young readers. Rusty's journey into children's literature was inspired by his desire to entertain and educate children about animals and their habitats. Throughout our conversation, he articulates the importance of accessibility in children's literature, emphasizing the need for writings that can capture the imaginations of both young and older audiences alike. We delve into the creative process behind his works, the challenges he faced in publishing, and the profound impact his books have had on both children and their illustrators. Rusty Austin, a former Hollywood producer with an extensive career in entertainment, transitioned into children's literature after retiring in 2018. His journey began with the inspiration drawn from his experiences as a child growing up in Colorado, where he developed a love for wildlife and storytelling. Rusty's first foray into writing came from sharing short poems on Facebook, which resonated with friends and family. This encouragement led him to publish his first children's book, 'Beware the Grizzly Bear,' illustrated by his nephew. Over the years, he expanded his repertoire to include titles such as 'Awesome Bird, the Pelican' and 'The Unicorn Has One Horn,' all characterized by whimsical poetry and vibrant illustrations. In this podcast episode, Rusty discusses his creative process, the challenges of self-publishing, and the joy of engaging with young readers, emphasizing the importance of fostering a connection with nature through literature. Takeaways:Rusty Austin transitioned from a successful career in television to writing children's books, demonstrating a commitment to storytelling in new forms.His experience in reality television has significantly influenced his writing process, emphasizing brevity and clarity in poetry for children.The collaboration with middle school students to illustrate his latest book fostered creativity and community engagement, showcasing children's artistic talents.Austin's mission is to connect children with nature through his poetry, encouraging them to explore the world beyond screens and engage with their environment.He advocates for aspiring authors to embrace the writing process without fear of perfection, emphasizing that the first draft is merely a starting point.The accessibility of self-publishing has transformed the landscape for authors, allowing greater freedom and opportunities in bringing their stories to life. Links referenced in this episode:rustyaustin.commadeinchina.coma href="https://donorsshoes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    56 min
  3. In Pursuit of Wonder: Lessons from "Billy Finds Bigfoot"

    FEB 3

    In Pursuit of Wonder: Lessons from "Billy Finds Bigfoot"

    This podcast episode features an enlightening conversation with Kevin Lestarge, author of the children's book "Billy Finds Bigfoot." At the forefront of our discourse is the profound significance of storytelling for children, which Kevin articulates as a means of imparting valuable life lessons. He reflects on his journey to authorship, which was ignited by a fascination with the mythical figure of Bigfoot, and explores the personal motivations behind his creative endeavors. Throughout our exchange, we delve into the intricacies of the publishing process, the emotional stakes of artistic collaboration, and the importance of nurturing a legacy for future generations. Ultimately, this episode serves as a testament to the transformative power of literature and the enduring impact of sharing stories with young minds. Kevin Lestarge, the author of "Billy Finds Bigfoot," elucidates the profound significance of being a children's book author, emphasizing the legacy of storytelling that transcends generations. In our discourse, I share my personal connection to the enigmatic figure of Bigfoot, which has been a source of fascination since childhood. The journey of writing this book was not merely a quest for publication but a heartfelt endeavor to impart valuable life lessons to the younger audience. Through the character of Billy, I explore themes of appreciation for nature and the importance of cherishing relationships. As we delve into the intricacies of my creative process, we discuss the challenges and triumphs associated with bringing this narrative to fruition, while also reflecting on the enduring impact of stories in the lives of children and their families. In this engaging podcast episode, Kevin Lestarge shares the origins and inspirations behind his children’s book, *Billy Finds Bigfoot*. The discussion highlights the intricate relationship between personal experience and storytelling, as Lestarge recounts how his childhood fascination with Bigfoot evolved into a narrative that seeks to captivate young readers. His reflections on the creative process illuminate the challenges faced by aspiring authors, particularly the balance between artistic integrity and the demands of the publishing industry. Lestarge’s insights into self-publishing versus traditional publishing reveal the complexities of bringing a book to life, offering valuable lessons for those navigating similar paths. As the conversation unfolds, Lestarge emphasizes the underlying themes of his book, particularly the importance of cherishing the connections we have with family and nature. He articulates how Billy’s adventure is not merely a quest for the elusive Bigfoot but a journey of discovery that encourages children to appreciate the world around them. This duality of exploration and relational warmth is central to Lestarge’s narrative, making it a compelling read for children and a meaningful experience for parents reading alongside them. His role as both author and illustrator allows for a unique integration of visual storytelling, further enhancing the book's appeal. The episode concludes with Lestarge’s reflections on the future of his writing career, including the challenges of creating a follow-up project. He shares his aspirations to explore deeper themes while maintaining the whimsical charm that characterizes his debut work. Throughout the discussion, Lestarge’s passion for storytelling shines through, underscoring the notion that the journey of an author is as significant as the final product. His candidness about the ups and downs of the creative process serves as encouragement for other aspiring writers, reinforcing the idea that perseverance and authenticity are key components in crafting meaningful literature for children. Takeaways:Being a children's

    1 hr
  4. True Heart Tails: Lessons from Animals and Life Experiences

    JAN 27

    True Heart Tails: Lessons from Animals and Life Experiences

    Brittany Petish, an accomplished children's book author, joins us to discuss her poignant work, "Goodbye Blue," which poignantly explores themes of love and loss through the lens of her profound bond with her late dog, Annabelle. This episode delves into Brittany's inspiring journey as she reflects on her eighteen years of experience working with the special needs community and how it has influenced her writing endeavors. We will examine the emotional resonance of her stories and the therapeutic nature of her writing process, revealing how personal experiences have shaped her narratives. Furthermore, Brittany shares her aspirations for future works and her dedication to creating stories that foster healing and connection. Join us as we explore the transformative power of literature and the heartfelt messages embedded within Brittany's tales. This heartfelt narrative resonates with readers of all ages, providing solace to those who have faced similar experiences. Brittany's unique approach to storytelling, informed by her 18 years of experience in the special needs community, emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding in children's literature. As she discusses her journey from graphic design to authorship, her passion for creating meaningful narratives shines through, demonstrating her belief in the power of stories to heal and inspire. The podcast further delves into her future aspirations as an author, highlighting her intention to continue exploring diverse animal tales that capture the hearts of young readers. Brittany's journey exemplifies the profound impact of storytelling, illustrating how personal experiences can shape literature that not only entertains but also uplifts and educates. Takeaways:Brittany Petish, a children's book author, discusses her inspirations for writing, particularly her book Goodbye Blue, which addresses themes of loss and love.Her experiences working with the special needs community significantly influenced her decision to write children's literature aimed at teaching valuable lessons.Brittany emphasizes the importance of personal connections made during book events, which often lead to profound interactions and shared experiences with readers.The creation of her book compilation was driven by a desire to provide durable hardback copies for libraries and readers, enhancing accessibility and longevity of her stories.Through her writing, Brittany hopes to offer hope and healing to readers of all ages, especially those who have experienced loss in their lives.She expresses a commitment to writing four new children's books annually, driven by animal stories that resonate with her own experiences and those of her audience. Links Mentioned in Episode:https://www.truehearttails.com/Goodbye Blue Book AmazonFacebookInstagram

    1h 2m
  5. Understanding Sibling Dynamics through Children's Literature

    JAN 20

    Understanding Sibling Dynamics through Children's Literature

    The episode features an enlightening dialogue with Anne Goresht, the esteemed author of the children's book "I Am a Big Brother with a Superpower." Anne, a pioneer in children's entertainment and former host of the renowned television program Romper Room, shares insights from her extensive experience in fostering empathy and understanding among children, particularly those adjusting to the arrival of a new sibling. Our discussion delves into the inspiration behind her book, which emanated from observing the emotional dynamics between siblings. Anne articulates the importance of acknowledging the feelings of the older child, who may experience feelings of neglect upon the introduction of a new family member. This episode serves as a profound reminder of the vital role that empathy plays in familial relationships and the impact of children's literature in addressing these nuanced emotional landscapes. In an engaging and thought-provoking episode of the Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors Podcast, Ann shares her remarkable journey from a pioneering children's television host to a celebrated author of children's literature. Her book, 'I Am a Big Brother with a Superpower', encapsulates the emotional complexities faced by older siblings when a new sibling arrives, a theme that resonates with many families. The discussion navigates through Anne's extensive background in children's entertainment, highlighting her role in shaping the genre and her insights into the importance of addressing children's emotions through literature. Anne emphasizes the necessity of creating a safe space for children to express their feelings, particularly the often unspoken anxieties that come with sibling rivalry. The podcast not only serves as a platform for Anne to share her narrative but also offers invaluable lessons for parents and caregivers on the significance of empathy and communication in familial dynamics. As they delve into the intricacies of storytelling, the episode ultimately reaffirms the power of literature in fostering understanding and connection among siblings in a rapidly changing family landscape. Takeaways:The podcast features a discussion with Ann Goriest, author of a children's book titled 'I Am a Big Brother with a Superpower'.Ann reflects on her extensive career in children's entertainment spanning from the late 1950s to the 1990s.The conversation delves into the emotional complexities faced by older siblings when a new child enters the family.The book aims to foster empathy and understanding among children regarding their feelings about new siblings.Listeners are encouraged to explore the themes of sibling rivalry and emotional growth presented in Anne's book.The podcast emphasizes the importance of storytelling and its transformative power for both children and adults. Links referenced in this episode:Book, I Am a Big Brother with a Superpower Companies mentioned in this episode:Romper RoomMr. RogersSesame Streetli...

    34 min
  6. Navigating Parenthood and Storytelling: A Mother's Unique Perspective

    JAN 13

    Navigating Parenthood and Storytelling: A Mother's Unique Perspective

    Episode 64 Allison Intrieri, the author of "Thatcher Hates the Bath," presents an insightful look at the trials and tribulations of parenting, particularly the struggles surrounding children's bathtime. Drawing from her personal experiences as a mother, she delves into the unique challenges that arise when children resist necessary routines, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in navigating these moments. Throughout our discussion, we investigate the creative process behind her book, which employs humour and relatability to connect with both children and parents alike. Allison reflects on the critical role of perspective in children's literature, advocating for narratives that depict the realities of parenting. Allison explores the complexities of parenting, particularly the humorous challenges she faced when her son resisted bath time. This exploration serves as the backbone of her book, which seeks to resonate with both children and parents alike. Allison emphasizes the importance of addressing real-life parenting scenarios in children's literature, noting that her book offers exaggerated yet relatable situations that reflect the chaos of family life. The conversation also touches on the technical aspects of publishing as Allison navigates self-publishing, discussing her decisions on design and distribution. She emphasizes the need to create a visually appealing product that stands out in a crowded marketplace. As the episode unfolds, Allison's passion for storytelling and her desire to connect with readers become evident, illustrating how her journey is not merely about crafting a book but about fostering understanding and empathy among families. The episode captures the essence of parenting through a creative lens, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences while encouraging aspiring authors to share their stories. Takeaways:Allison, the author of 'Thatcher Hates the Bath', shares her journey into children's literature.The book was inspired by her experiences as a mother of a young child.Allison emphasizes the importance of illustrating the parent's perspective in children's books.She discusses the unique challenges and rewards of independent publishing in the modern market.The narrative incorporates both humor and relatable parenting struggles to engage both children and parents.Allison highlights the significance of creating a visually appealing book that resonates with young readers. Links referenced in this episode:roaringpotatopress.comBook, Thatcher Hates the Bath Companies mentioned in this episode:Law and OrderBull East New YorkStarzAmazonIngram Sparkspan...

    1h 8m
  7. Crafting Children's Literature: The Making of a Birthday Wish

    JAN 6

    Crafting Children's Literature: The Making of a Birthday Wish

    Episode 63, Crafting Children's Literature: The Making of a Birthday Wish Nikki McPhetridge has embarked upon a remarkable journey as a newly published children's book author with her work, "Maya's Birthday Wish." This episode delves into the inspiration behind the narrative, which is tied to her daughter Maya, and explores the profound desire to create a legacy that transcends material gifts. As we engage in a thoughtful dialogue, we unravel Nikki's motivations and the unique experiences that shaped her writing process. Furthermore, we examine the thematic elements of her book, which emphasize the significance of family, creativity, and the simplicity of childhood joys. Through this discussion, we aspire to provide valuable insights to both aspiring authors and listeners alike, illuminating the path of creativity and imagination in children's literature. The narrative of the book is imbued with personal significance, as Nikki recounts how the initial concept emerged from a dream, highlighting the mystical process of inspiration that often accompanies artistic endeavors. This episode serves as a profound exploration of the emotional and creative facets of writing, as Nikki articulates her aspirations for both her book and the accompanying brand, Maya's Storyland. Nikki delves into the challenges and triumphs she encountered on her journey to publication, offering valuable insights into the realities of the publishing industry. She emphasizes the importance of persistence and adaptability, underscoring the steep learning curve that accompanies becoming a published author. The discussion extends beyond mere storytelling; it encompasses Nikki's broader vision of fostering creativity in children through interactive and engaging experiences, advocating for a return to simpler times where imagination and outdoor play take precedence over digital distractions. This episode ultimately encapsulates a heartfelt message about the power of storytelling in shaping young minds and the enduring impact of literature in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Takeaways:The inspiration behind the book 'Maya's Birthday Wish' stems from a deep emotional connection to the author's daughter, Maya, symbolizing a legacy of creativity and love.Nikki emphasizes the importance of engaging children in imaginative play, advocating for reduced screen time and increased outdoor activities.The author shares insights on the publishing process, highlighting the significance of proper editing and the challenges faced by new authors in the industry.Nikki's future aspirations include expanding her brand 'Maya's Storyland' to encompass a variety of creative products and experiences for children.The podcast discusses the critical role of family values and relationships in children's literature, aiming to instill lessons about gratitude and simplicity in young readers.Through her work, Nikki aims to inspire other aspiring authors, encouraging them to pursue their creative ideas with determination and passion. Links referenced in this episode:amazon.com booka href="https://madeinchina.com" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    41 min
  8. Unlocking Success: The Secret Ingredients Behind Our 2025 Podcast Growth

    12/30/2025

    Unlocking Success: The Secret Ingredients Behind Our 2025 Podcast Growth

    The principal focus of this podcast episode is the successful completion of our ambitious goal to publish a weekly episode throughout the year 2025, culminating in a total of 52 episodes. We reflect upon the journey that commenced with our tentative steps into podcasting in 2024, during which we faced numerous challenges, including attracting engaging guests and establishing a dedicated audience. Our initial efforts, characterized by a modest output of ten episodes, laid the foundation for the remarkable growth we experienced in 2025, which was facilitated by the unexpected interest from accomplished children's book authors seeking to share their narratives. Furthermore, we are proud to announce that our podcast has garnered recognition as the Best Children's Literary Podcast by Millions Podcasts and has achieved a notable position among the top 100 Canadian Book Podcasts, an accolade that underscores our commitment to promoting the voices of children's authors. As we look ahead, we are excited to continue this endeavor into 2026, where we aim to further empower aspiring children's book authors through diverse content and the development of supplementary educational materials. The principal focus of this podcast episode is the remarkable achievement of publishing a weekly episode throughout the year 2025, a goal that has been successfully realized. I reflect upon the inception of the Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors podcast, noting the initial uncertainties regarding audience engagement and guest acquisition. The episode further elucidates the significance of collaboration with published children's book authors, whose narratives and insights enrich the content we provide to our dedicated listeners. Moreover, I share the gratifying recognition our podcast has received, including accolades from independent tracking organizations, affirming our position as a noteworthy platform within the literary community. As we look forward to the forthcoming year, we remain committed to sustaining our output and enhancing the experience for aspiring authors and readers alike. The Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors podcast has triumphantly navigated the ever-evolving landscape of children's literature, culminating in a remarkable achievement in 2025. The host reflects on the ambitious goal set for the year—to release a weekly episode—an endeavor that has not only materialized but has also garnered unexpected enthusiasm from listeners and guests alike. This episode serves as a reflective piece, emphasizing the journey from inception to execution, illustrating the myriad challenges faced along the way, particularly in attracting engaging guests who are published authors. The discussion delves into the importance of community and networking within the niche realm of children's literature, underscoring how collaboration and shared experiences have been pivotal in the podcast's growth. Furthermore, the host shares insights into the metrics of podcasting, noting the discouraging statistics regarding the longevity of new podcasts. With approximately 90% of podcasts failing to surpass the third episode, this episode stands as a testament to perseverance and determination. The host's narrative is infused with personal anecdotes, reflecting on the initial fear of failure and the subsequent triumph of surpassing expectations, thus inspiring aspiring podcasters and authors alike. The episode concludes with a projection for the future, reinforcing the commitment to continue sharing insightful dialogues with authors, thereby enriching the literary world for both creators and readers. As the podcast reflects on its accomplishments in 2025, it also seeks to inspire a new generation of children's book authors and readers through shared stories and insights. The engaging dialogues with published authors not only illuminate the intricacies of the publishing process but also serve to empower listeners with the...

    15 min
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out of 5
4 Ratings

About

“Adventures in the Heart of Children’s Book Authors” is an award-winning podcast dedicated to empowering aspiring children’s book authors and readers by sharing stories and insights from published children’s book authors about the publishing process. Podcast Overview The podcast aims to demystify the journey of becoming a children’s book author by featuring self-published (hybrid) and independently published children’s book authors who share their experiences in writing, illustrating, publishing and marketing their books. Each episode introduces listeners to a different children’s book author, providing a behind-the-scenes look at their creative processes and the challenges they faced along the way. Themes and Content Empowerment and Inspiration: The podcast encourages aspiring authors by demonstrating that their dreams of authorship are achievable. It highlights various paths to purchase and the importance of a supportive “Dream Team” of professionals who can assist with the process. Diverse Voices: The show features a wide range of children’s book authors, showcasing their unique stories and the themes they explore. This diversity allows listeners to gain insights into perspectives and styles within children’s literature. Episode Highlights: Notable episodes include discussions with authors about their specific books, Alison Thompson’s “Sunny Steps Love to Dance,” which encourages children to embrace dance, and Judy McGee’s “Penny Girl’s Rescue, “which tells the story of a rescue dog. Sources Listening Options Listeners can tune in to the podcast on various platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, and numerous others. Each episode offers valuable insights for aspiring authors and children’s book readers alike, making it a rich resource for anyone interested in children’s literature. This podcast not only serves as a platform for children’s book authors to share their journey but also aims to inspire and educate listeners about the art and business of writing children’s books. adventuresintheheartofchildrensbookauthors.com kaboosetherockymountainbear.com

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