Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors Podcast

Papa Rick Harris
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Books
  • Updated Weekly

"Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors" is an award-winning podcast that, first and foremost, introduces children's book readers to published children's book authors and their heartfelt stories — while also empowering aspiring children's book authors to learn the art of publishing and the business behind children's book authorship. Podcast Overview The podcast demystifies the journey of becoming a children's book author by featuring self-published, hybrid, independently and traditionally published who share their experiences writing, illustrating, editing, formatting, publishing, distributing, marketing, and selling their books — along with the broader business experiences behind building a career as a children's book author. Each episode introduces listeners to a different children's book author, offering a behind-the-scenes look at their creative process and the challenges they faced along the way. Themes and Content Empowerment and Inspiration — The podcast encourages aspiring authors by showing that their dream of authorship is achievable. It highlights the many paths to publishing — traditional, hybrid, and independent — and the importance of building a supportive "Dream Team" of professionals to guide 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 gives listeners insight into the many perspectives and styles within children's literature. Episode Highlights — Notable episodes include conversations with Alison Thompson about Sunny Steps Loves to Dance, which encourages children to embrace dance, and Judy McGee about Penny Girl's Rescue, which tells the story of a rescue dog. Listening Options Listeners can tune in on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, and many other platforms. Each episode offers valuable insight for aspiring authors and children's book readers alike, making it a rich resource for anyone interested in children's literature. This podcast serves as both a platform for children's book authors to share their journey and a resource to inspire and educate listeners about the art and business of writing children's books. adventuresintheheartofchildrensbookauthors.com kaboosetherockymountainbear.com

  1. 6d ago

    Ep. 101: Ella's Way — How One Children's Book Sparked a Kindness Movement (Sherry Cerino)

    Episode Summary Sherry Cerino is a children's book author and founder of Ella's Way, a nonprofit built on a simple but powerful mission: teaching kids kindness, diversity awareness, and acceptance through storytelling. Sherry traces her journey from writing her debut book, Ella and the All Stars — where Ella navigates her world alongside a cast of unique underwater friends — to growing Ella's Way from a small passion project into a full nonprofit that supports authors and equips schools and community programs with resources. She shares what it actually takes to build a children's book business: navigating the publishing world, connecting with other authors, and turning a story idea into something that reaches real classrooms and real kids. It's a conversation about how literature shapes empathy in young readers — and an invitation for aspiring authors to bring more kindness into the world through their own stories. In This Episode: How Ella and the All Stars became the foundation for a larger missionThe evolution of Ella's Way from idea to nonprofitHow Ella's Way supports schools, community programs, and a growing network of children's authorsSherry's advice for navigating the publishing landscapeWhy storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for teaching empathy and acceptance Takeaways:Sherry Cerino, a children's book author, founded Ella's Way to promote diversity and kindness.Ella's Way began with the publication of Sherry's first book, Ella and the All Stars, in 2013.The organization supports authors by purchasing their books and donating them to schools and libraries.Ella's Way emphasizes the importance of kindness and acceptance in children's literature.Authors within Ella's Way benefit from collaboration and support during quarterly meetings and special projects.The awards program for children's books encourages authors to focus on themes of kindness and diversity. Links referenced in this episode:ellasway.comStenetta AnthonyNoel FoyCarmella AlexanderCatherine Felts ClarkRalph Tufo Companies mentioned in this episode:Ella's Way

    Ep. 101: Ella's Way — How One Children's Book Sparked a Kindness Movement (Sherry Cerino)

  2. Sep 8

    From the Trails to the Page: Author Mark Villarreal on Raising the Next Generation of Nature Explorers

    Mark Villarreal, the esteemed author behind the series "The Adventures of Park Ranger Brock Cliffhanger and His Junior Park Rangers," joins us to elucidate the profound significance of storytelling in children's literature. His commitment to fostering curiosity and a love for nature in young readers is evident as we delve into his latest installment, "Shenandoah National Park Exploration." Mark articulates his belief that educating children about the world is paramount, a philosophy inspired by his own upbringing and experiences. Throughout our discussion, he shares the enchanting origin story of Brock Cliffhanger, born from a deep affection for a young boy named Jack, which ultimately blossomed into a series designed to inspire and teach. With an emphasis on core values such as teamwork and environmental stewardship, this episode invites listeners to explore how literature can serve as a catalyst for nurturing the next generation of explorers and caretakers of our planet. Mark Villarreal's conversation on the podcast dives deeply into his philosophy as a children's book author, emphasizing the importance of instilling foundational values in children through literature. He articulates that the essence of being a children's author transcends mere storytelling; it is about crafting experiences that resonate with young minds and foster their understanding of the world. Central to this philosophy is the character of Brock Cliffhanger, who embodies values such as integrity, teamwork, and a profound love for nature. Mark's narrative is enriched by anecdotes that illustrate his commitment to education and mentorship, showcasing how his books serve as vehicles for imparting critical life lessons. The interview also reveals Mark's strategic approach to writing and publishing, including his plans for future books that will explore various national parks, thereby continuing to educate children about environmental conservation. His dedication to giving back to the community through library donations and educational outreach further underscores the impact of his work. Takeaways: Mark Villarreal emphasizes the importance of instilling a sense of curiosity and exploration in children through his book series.The character Brock Cliffhanger was inspired by a personal connection to a young boy named Jack, highlighting the author's commitment to nurturing children's dreams.Each book in the series is meticulously researched to accurately represent the national parks and their unique histories, flora, and fauna.Villarreal's focus on educational themes aims to teach children about safety, teamwork, and the importance of preserving nature in an engaging manner. Links referenced in this episode: Brockliffhanger.combook link https://a.co/d/09Jq5C78Instagram @villareal_mark Companies mentioned in this episode: Brockliffhanger.comAllegheny State ParkGreat Smoky MountainsAmazonIngramsparksGoodreadsKid Leo MagicMr. V Consulting

    From the Trails to the Page: Author Mark Villarreal on Raising the Next Generation of Nature Explorers

  3. Sep 1

    "She Wrote the Book She Needed as a Little Girl — Now It's Helping Kids Feel Less Alone"

    The central theme of this podcast revolves around the exploration of Amanda Ferris children's book, "Little Panda and the Sticky Thoughts." Throughout our dialogue, Amanda articulates her journey as a children's book author, emphasizing the profound significance of addressing children's emotional experiences through literature. She reflects on her personal motivations, which stem from a desire to reconnect with her younger self and to provide children with the tools to navigate their emotions effectively. The conversation delves into the intricacies of character development, the importance of meaningful relationships, and the strategies employed to market her book successfully. Ultimately, Amanda's narrative not only highlights the creative process behind her work but also underscores her commitment to fostering emotional intelligence among young readers. The conversation subsequently transitions to the practicalities of navigating the children's book market, wherein Amanda candidly shares the myriad challenges she has encountered in promoting her work. She acknowledges the daunting task of maintaining momentum post-launch and the necessity of self-motivation in the entrepreneurial realm of authorship. Despite the obstacles, Amanda remains resolute, employing a methodical approach to marketing and outreach that includes engaging with her audience through social media platforms. Her insights into the importance of perseverance and incremental progress resonate deeply, as she advocates for the notion that sustained effort, regardless of scale, is paramount in achieving success. Through her narrative, Amanda encapsulates the essence of resilience and the inherent value of storytelling in shaping young minds, ultimately reiterating her commitment to fostering emotional intelligence in children through her literary contributions. Takeaways:Amanda Ferris articulates her journey to becoming a children's book author, emphasizing the importance of pursuing one's passion and dreams, which resonates deeply with her core identity.The podcast highlights the significance of emotional intelligence for children, focusing on how Amanda's book, 'Little Panda and the Sticky Thoughts,' aims to teach young readers that they are not alone in their feelings.Amanda discusses the challenges of marketing her book, underscoring the need for persistence and the importance of incremental progress in the face of discouragement during the launch process.The conversation delves into the role of supportive relationships in personal growth, with Amanda sharing how her friends and family helped her embrace vulnerability and authenticity in her writing journey.Amanda expresses her desire to create books that foster conversations about emotions between children and their parents, highlighting the potential for enhancing emotional literacy from a young age.The podcast concludes with Amanda encouraging aspiring authors to take actionable steps toward their writing goals, emphasizing that starting before one feels entirely prepared is crucial for success. Links:@amandaferriss (Instagram)Book Amazon, Little Panda and The Sticky Thoughts Companies mentioned in this episode:Miriam Laundry PublishingIngramSparks

    "She Wrote the Book She Needed as a Little Girl — Now It's Helping Kids Feel Less Alone"

  4. Aug 25

    "She Never Left Home — But Her Students Were 7,000 Miles Away. Then She Wrote Them a Book."

    The principal focus of this podcast episode is the exploration of Lillian Pagano's journey as a children's book author, specifically highlighting her recently published work, "Bao Bao the Baby Panda." Lillian shares her profound passion for inspiring children, rooted in her experiences as a retired teacher, and recounts the serendipitous moments that led her to write this enchanting tale. Throughout our discussion, we delve into the intricacies of her creative process, the significance of her connections with young readers, and the valuable lessons embedded within her narrative. Furthermore, Lillian reflects on the challenges and triumphs of the publishing process, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and self-belief in the pursuit of one's dreams. This episode serves as a testament to the transformative power of storytelling and the enduring bond between authors and their young audiences. In this enlightening episode, Lillian Pagano takes us on a journey through her transition from an accomplished educator to a children's book author with her debut work, *Bao Bao the Baby Panda*. Lillian discusses her deep-seated passion for inspiring children, a sentiment that has driven her through decades of teaching. She shares a poignant anecdote about a principal's newfound enthusiasm for teaching, sparked during one of Lillian's school presentations, illustrating the profound impact that storytelling can have on both educators and students. The origin of *Bao Bao the Baby Panda* is rooted in Lillian's experiences while tutoring young children in China, where she developed meaningful relationships with her students and their families. This connection served as the foundation for her narrative, which aims to bridge cultural gaps and celebrate the joyous adventures of childhood. Lillian emphasizes the significance of relatable characters and engaging plots that can ignite a child's imagination, fostering a lifelong love for reading and learning. Throughout the episode, Lillian also addresses the intricacies of the publishing journey, spotlighting her partnership with Miriam Laundry Publishing. She discusses the challenges and triumphs encountered in bringing her story to fruition, underscoring the importance of community support and accountability in the writing process. As she prepares for her second book, Lillian reflects on the invaluable lessons learned and offers guidance to aspiring authors, encouraging them to pursue their creative aspirations and share their unique stories with the world. Takeaways:Lillian Pagano, a retired teacher, discovered her passion for children's literature after retiring and engaging with children again.The inspiration for her book, 'Bow Bow the Baby Panda', emerged from her experiences as a teacher and her interactions with students.Lillian emphasizes the importance of connection with children and families, showcasing how literature can inspire and motivate young minds.The podcast discusses the challenges of transitioning from teaching to writing, highlighting the importance of believing in one's ideas and creativity.The author recounts the significance of her illustrating partner and how collaboration enhanced the visual storytelling of her book.Lillian expresses her commitment to promoting literature in schools, underscoring the value of reading and storytelling in developing children's emotional understanding. Links:https://www.lillianspagano.comAmazon Bookhttps://www.instagram.com/paganolillian/Facebook Companies mentioned in this episode:vip KidsAmazonIngram SparksMiriam Laundry PublishingBarnes and NobleTarget

    "She Never Left Home — But Her Students Were 7,000 Miles Away. Then She Wrote Them a Book."

  5. Aug 18

    How Storytelling Shapes a Career and Builds a Legacy

    Lesley O'Brien, the esteemed author of the "Adventures of Captain Marco" series, engages in an enlightening dialogue about her literary journey and the thematic essence of her works. The central focus of this episode is "An Impawsible Predicament," the second installment in her series, which delves into the adventurous exploits of Captain Marco, a cat navigating the challenges of life aboard a sailboat. Lesley elucidates the significance of storytelling in shaping human experiences, emphasizing the dual role of legacy and service in her writing. Furthermore, she reflects on her motivations for becoming a children's author, stemming from a profound connection to her own childhood experiences and the influence of her father’s imaginative storytelling. As we explore her insights into the creative process, the importance of connection, and the nuances of crafting a narrative, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the artistry involved in children's literature. The podcast further examines the unique character of Captain Marco, who not only embodies the whimsicality of childhood but also reflects on broader themes of second chances and the importance of environmental stewardship. Through engaging anecdotes and heartfelt reflections, Leslie provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies involved in writing for children, emphasizing the need for genuine connection and the impact of storytelling on both young readers and their families. Takeaways:The journey of becoming a children's book author is deeply personal and often stems from familial influences, as exemplified by Leslie's relationship with her father who inspired her love for storytelling.Lesley emphasizes the significance of legacy and service in her role as a children's author, focusing on creating connections through stories that resonate with both children and adults.An essential component of children's literature is the inclusion of humor and depth that appeals to adults while still being accessible to children, creating a shared reading experience.The editing process is vital to the development of a quality children's book, as it allows for refinement and enhancement of the story, ensuring that it resonates well with its intended audience. Links:Amazon Book: https://a.co/d/0giCB3YT

    How Storytelling Shapes a Career and Builds a Legacy

  6. Aug 11

    'Not Every Boat Is Yours to Fix': Teaching Kids Boundaries Before People-Pleasing Starts

    The central theme of our conversation revolves around the profound insights encapsulated in my book, *Not Every Boat Is Yours to Fix*. This narrative seeks to impart the essential lesson that kindness does not necessitate self-abandonment; one can exhibit compassion while simultaneously establishing necessary boundaries. Karim has endeavored to share her personal journey, experiences, and reflections on the nuances of relationships, particularly the importance of discerning which burdens she to carries. The impetus for this work emerged from a pivotal moment in therapy, wherein Karim realized the significance of relinquishing the weight of others’ struggles. The conversation emphasizes that the journey of a children's book author is fraught with challenges yet immensely rewarding when the author recognizes their capacity to inspire and educate through storytelling. Karim's reflections on her motivations, the creative process, and the lessons embedded within her book culminate in a powerful reminder: every story holds the potential to evoke change and foster understanding, making it essential reading for children and adults alike. Engage with us as we explore the intricacies of being a children's book author and the transformative power of storytelling, which ultimately aspires to equip the next generation with the tools for healthier relationships. In conclusion, the podcast serves as a platform to illuminate the significance of emotional literacy in children's literature. Karim's heartfelt narrative not only reflects her personal experiences but also resonates with a broader audience, including adults who may grapple with similar themes of boundary-setting and self-identity. Takeaways:The podcast episode features a discussion about the book titled 'Not Every Boat Is Yours to Fix', authored by Karim, who shares her experiences as a children's book author.Karim emphasizes the importance of recognizing personal boundaries and understanding that one can be kind while also prioritizing oneself.The inspiration for the book stems from a profound therapy session where Karim realized the necessity of self-care and releasing burdens that do not belong to her.Listeners are encouraged to embrace their creative pursuits, as Karim reflects on her own journey and the fulfillment that comes from sharing stories with children.The conversation highlights the therapeutic nature of writing and storytelling, particularly in the context of children’s literature, which can resonate with both young readers and adults alike.Karim's approach to character development and narrative emphasizes the significance of relatability, allowing readers to see themselves in the story, thereby enhancing emotional connection. Links:Book Amazon: https://a.co/d/047Qe56uPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ariamarli/Website: http://www.ariamarlicollections.com Companies mentioned in this episode:AmazonKDPIngramsparkNike

    'Not Every Boat Is Yours to Fix': Teaching Kids Boundaries Before People-Pleasing Starts

  7. Aug 4

    How to Combine Music and Storytelling to Create Powerful Children's Books

    This podcast episode revolves around the distinguished children's book, "UH, Ok Spaghetti, Oh!," authored by the multifaceted entertainer Susie O'Leary. In our conversation, we explore the genesis of this creative endeavor, which emerged during the tumultuous period of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the innovative process that transformed a catchy phrase into a vibrant narrative.What if the secret to writing a children's book that kids actually remember....isn't just in the words? What is its music behind the story? Think about it before kids can even read, they respond to rhythm. melody, repetition. It's why lullabies stick...and why some stories never leave us. But almost no one is teaching authors how to use that when they write. In today's episode, we're diving into a completely different approach to children's book creation- where storytelling meets music to create deeper emotion, stronger engagement, and unforgettable reading experiences. If you ever wondered how to make your story stick... this might change the way you write forever. Susie elucidates how her musical background has profoundly informed her approach to writing and storytelling, allowing her to weave melodies seamlessly into the fabric of her book. Furthermore, we delve into the complexities of the children's book industry, examining the collaborative nature of authorship and the vital role of community engagement in fostering creativity. Join us as we uncover the intricate interplay between music, literature, and emotional resilience in Susie's work, offering insights that may inspire aspiring authors in their own creative journeys. In this enlightening exchange, Susie O'Leary discusses the multifaceted nature of her career as a children's book author, emphasizing the profound connection between her musical endeavors and her literary pursuits. The episode not only sheds light on the genesis of her book, "O Spaghettio," but also illustrates the emotional backdrop that fueled its creation. During the pandemic, Susie transformed her experiences as a mother into a narrative that addresses common childhood mishaps with humor and lightheartedness, effectively normalizing the challenges children face. Her discussions about developing relatable characters resonate deeply with her audience, especially as she seeks to empower young readers through themes of resilience and emotional understanding. Furthermore, Susie's reflections on community involvement and the healing power of music reveal her commitment to making a positive impact, offering a compelling case for the role of authors in advocating for emotional growth in children. Takeaways:The podcast features Susie O'Leary, the author of 'O Spaghettio', discussing her journey as a children's book author.Susie's transition from a musical background to writing children's books highlights the intersection of creativity and storytelling.The importance of community and support among children's book authors is emphasized, showcasing a collaborative spirit.The podcast explores how music can enhance children's literature, making stories more engaging and memorable for young readers.Susie's experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic inspired her creative process and the themes in her book.The discussion also touches on the significance of emotional resilience in children's literature, as depicted in 'O Spaghettio'. Links:https://happysingingkids.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@happysingingkidshttps://www.facebook.com/happysingingkidshttps://www.instagram.com/happysingingkidshttps://open.spotify.com/artist/5pidckPd6eDXfUJmZiPeE9https://www.tiktok.com/@happysingingkidshttps://music.amazon.com/albums/B08WH6SYP6?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER

    How to Combine Music and Storytelling to Create Powerful Children's Books

  8. Jul 28

    "How a Jellybean, a Family, and a Little Persuasion Sparked a Children's Book Series"

    The core focus of this podcast episode is an insightful dialogue with Amy Meislin Pollock, the esteemed author of the children's book series featuring the character Jelly Bean. Throughout our conversation, we delve into the creative journey that inspired the latest installment, "The Still Further Adventures of Jelly Bean." Amy reflects on her experiences as a children's book author, emphasizing the profound impact of her upbringing and the encouragement of her family on her writing endeavors. Notably, she shares anecdotes about her relationship with her mother-in-law, which ultimately served as a catalyst for her literary aspirations. Furthermore, we explore the challenges and triumphs she has encountered in the publishing process, along with her commitment to addressing themes relevant to young readers, such as resilience and self-discovery. Amy reflects on her experiences as a children's book author, emphasizing the profound impact of her upbringing and the encouragement of her family on her writing endeavors. Notably, she shares anecdotes about her relationship with her mother-in-law, which ultimately served as a catalyst for her literary aspirations. Takeaways:The Adventures of Jelly Bean series illustrates the importance of creativity and storytelling in children's literature.Amy emphasizes the significance of perseverance in the face of rejection within the publishing industry.The character Jelly Bean embodies the values of self-expression and learning from life experiences.Amy's journey as an author showcases the impact of supportive relationships on creative endeavors.The podcast discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic served as a catalyst for Amy's renewed focus on writing.Amy's experiences highlight the balance between parenting and pursuing a passion for writing. Links referenced in this episode:https://amypollack.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-pollack-9b111882/https://twitter.com/AdvOfJellyBeanhttps://www.facebook.com/Author.AmyMeislinPollack/https://www.instagram.com/jellybeanthebookseries/ Companies mentioned in this episode:Austin McCauleyPegasusNeil SimonICM

    "How a Jellybean, a Family, and a Little Persuasion Sparked a Children's Book Series"
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About

"Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors" is an award-winning podcast that, first and foremost, introduces children's book readers to published children's book authors and their heartfelt stories — while also empowering aspiring children's book authors to learn the art of publishing and the business behind children's book authorship. Podcast Overview The podcast demystifies the journey of becoming a children's book author by featuring self-published, hybrid, independently and traditionally published who share their experiences writing, illustrating, editing, formatting, publishing, distributing, marketing, and selling their books — along with the broader business experiences behind building a career as a children's book author. Each episode introduces listeners to a different children's book author, offering a behind-the-scenes look at their creative process and the challenges they faced along the way. Themes and Content Empowerment and Inspiration — The podcast encourages aspiring authors by showing that their dream of authorship is achievable. It highlights the many paths to publishing — traditional, hybrid, and independent — and the importance of building a supportive "Dream Team" of professionals to guide 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 gives listeners insight into the many perspectives and styles within children's literature. Episode Highlights — Notable episodes include conversations with Alison Thompson about Sunny Steps Loves to Dance, which encourages children to embrace dance, and Judy McGee about Penny Girl's Rescue, which tells the story of a rescue dog. Listening Options Listeners can tune in on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, and many other platforms. Each episode offers valuable insight for aspiring authors and children's book readers alike, making it a rich resource for anyone interested in children's literature. This podcast serves as both a platform for children's book authors to share their journey and a resource to inspire and educate listeners about the art and business of writing children's books. adventuresintheheartofchildrensbookauthors.com kaboosetherockymountainbear.com

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