Ishara's Reading Podcast

Ishara

Hi Everyone! Welcome to my Reading Adventure Podcast—the place where kids can explore exciting books, spark their imagination, and build knowledge through the magic of reading! 🌟 I started this podcast to inspire children around the world to read more books and create their own incredible imaginary worlds. Each week, we'll dive into fun stories, meet new characters, and hear from authors and illustrators about the creative process behind their books. 📖In every episode, I’ll share reading tips and tricks I use to be an amazing reader, helping you become a more confident and creative storyteller. Together, we’ll explore how reading can take us on exciting adventures and teach us new things about the world! 🌍What You'll Find on My Podcast:Exciting book readings for kidsCreative storytelling to build your imaginationInterviews with authors and illustrators for behind-the-scenes inspirationReading hacks and advice to become an awesome readerFun stories that help you learn and growLet’s change the world one book and adventure at a time! Whether you're a beginner reader or already love books, there’s something for everyone in this podcast. Join me on this amazing journey of reading, learning, and pretending—let's build new worlds and become better readers together! 📚✨#readingadventure  #KidsBooks #Imagination #ReadAlong #KidsReading #booknerd #kidlitFollow Me on Instagram: @Isharas_Reading_podcast or watch the podcast on my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@isharasclubSubscribe and Share the Adventure!

  1. I Am All That! Ishara Interviews Author Chrissy Jay: Empowering Kids Through Affirmations

    APR 13

    I Am All That! Ishara Interviews Author Chrissy Jay: Empowering Kids Through Affirmations

    Send us Fan Mail In this uplifting episode of Ishara’s Reading Podcast, Ishara sits down with author Chrissy Jay to explore her empowering children’s book, I Am All That!  A beautifully designed hardcover filled with 50 affirmations that inspire confidence, positivity, and self-belief in young readers. Perfect for kids, preteens, parents, and educators, this book goes beyond reading, each affirmation is paired with an interactive activity page that encourages journaling, reflection, and personal growth. From “I am Kind!” to “I am Worthy!” to “I am Faithful!”, I Am All That! reminds every child of their value and potential. Together, Ishara and Chrissy Jay discuss the importance of building confidence early, how affirmations can shape a child’s mindset, and simple ways families can incorporate positivity into everyday life. Whether you’re looking for a meaningful gift or a tool to support emotional wellness, this episode will leave you inspired to uplift the young voices around you. Please check out all of Ms. Chrissy's books; I highly recommend  You could watch this episode on my YouTube channel Take action: Try one affirmation today with a child in your life, and watch the power of positive words in motion. Support the show Keep on reading and being an inspiration to each other!  And follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/isharas_reading_podcast/  Please consider becoming a monthly subscriber. All proceeds will be used to buy building materials to create roadside libraries to encourage kids of all age to read. In addition, your donations will support my travels as I hit the road to interview the authors and illustrators of the books I will be reading on the  podcast.  #KidsPodcast, #ChildrensBooks, #ReadAloudPodcast, #StoryTimePodcast, #KidsReading, #BookLovers, #ChildrensLiterature, #KidLit, #RaisingReaders, #ChildrensAuthor, #PictureBooks, #ChapterBooks, #KidsStories, #BedtimeStories, #HomeschoolPodcast, #TeacherResources, #BookishKids

    13 min
  2. Season 5 Premiere: Interviewing a NASA Flight Controller! My BEYA STEM Experience

    FEB 16

    Season 5 Premiere: Interviewing a NASA Flight Controller! My BEYA STEM Experience

    Send us Fan Mail Welcome to Season 5 of Ishara's Reading Podcast!  I am SO excited to kick off this new season by sharing one of the most incredible experiences of my life - attending the BEYA STEM Conference's 40th Anniversary and interviewing retired NASA flight controller Dr. Joeletta Patrick! This was hands down one of the BEST STEM experiences I've ever had. Being surrounded by some many incredible people doing amazing things in space, engineering, and technology made my dream of becoming an astronaut feel more real than ever. Dr. Patrick is a retired NASA program manager and electrical engineer who worked as a certified flight controller for the International Space Station at NASA Johnson Space Center. Her call sign? "POWER" - because she monitored the ISS Electrical Power System in Mission Control! After an incredible 28-year career at NASA, Dr. Patrick now runs JD Patrick and Associates, where she equips and inspires young people (ages 10-24) and early career professionals to be successful in STEM fields and beyond. She's a motivational speaker, educator, and ordained minister who is passionate about increasing opportunities for underrepresented students in STEM. You could watch this episode on my YouTube channel In this episode, Dr. Patrick and I discuss: ✨ The Path to NASA: How she went from studying electrical engineering at North Carolina A&T to working in Mission Control ✨ NASA Certifications: The different roles and certifications you need to work at NASA - front room, back room, and Mission Control room ✨ Life in Mission Control: What it's really like being a flight controller for the International Space Station ✨ Working with Astronauts: The incredible astronauts Dr. Patrick supported during her time at NASA ✨ My Heroes: I share about meeting TWO of my heroes - Dr. Mae Jemison (the first Black woman in space and my mentor) and astronaut José Hernández. ✨Kennedy Space Center: My visit to Kennedy Space Center and what that experience meant to me as a future astronaut Support the show Keep on reading and being an inspiration to each other!  And follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/isharas_reading_podcast/  Please consider becoming a monthly subscriber. All proceeds will be used to buy building materials to create roadside libraries to encourage kids of all age to read. In addition, your donations will support my travels as I hit the road to interview the authors and illustrators of the books I will be reading on the  podcast.  #KidsPodcast, #ChildrensBooks, #ReadAloudPodcast, #StoryTimePodcast, #KidsReading, #BookLovers, #ChildrensLiterature, #KidLit, #RaisingReaders, #ChildrensAuthor, #PictureBooks, #ChapterBooks, #KidsStories, #BedtimeStories, #HomeschoolPodcast, #TeacherResources, #BookishKids

    6 min
  3. Hope Lives On - Alan Weisman: National Book Festival  25th Anniversary Series - Season 4 Finale

    11/26/2025

    Hope Lives On - Alan Weisman: National Book Festival 25th Anniversary Series - Season 4 Finale

    Send us Fan Mail Season 4 wraps up in style! Join Ishara at the 2025 National Book Festival as she sits down with bestselling author Alan Weisman to talk about his new book, Hope Dies Last: Keeping the Future Alive. From tackling global environmental challenges to spotlighting individuals and communities from the book making a real difference, this conversation is full of insight, inspiration, and...yes....hope. They also dive into the wonders of birds, coral reefs, and nature’s incredible resilience. Perfect for book lovers, eco-warriors, and anyone curious about the future of our planet. 🌱 Take action with hope: Get inspired by the stories Weisman's research uncovered and discover ways you can make a difference for the environment: every small step counts! You can watch the entire interview on my YouTube channel.  #HopeDiesLastKeepingTheFutureAlive #AlanWeisman #Dutton #NationalBookFestival #IsharasReadingPodcast #Season4Finale #BookLovers #EnvironmentalBooks #AuthorInterview #Inspiration #ClimateHope #TakeAction #MustListenPodcast  And that’s not all! Season 5 is coming soon, and Ishara needs your help: Which Christmas book should kick off the season? Plus, the highly anticipated K vs J interviews are saved just for Season 5: You won’t want to miss them! Join the conversation, share your picks, and get ready for another exciting season of books, ideas, and inspiration. Support the show Keep on reading and being an inspiration to each other!  And follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/isharas_reading_podcast/  Please consider becoming a monthly subscriber. All proceeds will be used to buy building materials to create roadside libraries to encourage kids of all age to read. In addition, your donations will support my travels as I hit the road to interview the authors and illustrators of the books I will be reading on the  podcast.  #KidsPodcast, #ChildrensBooks, #ReadAloudPodcast, #StoryTimePodcast, #KidsReading, #BookLovers, #ChildrensLiterature, #KidLit, #RaisingReaders, #ChildrensAuthor, #PictureBooks, #ChapterBooks, #KidsStories, #BedtimeStories, #HomeschoolPodcast, #TeacherResources, #BookishKids

    11 min
  4. Meet Dr. Eleanor Spicer Rice, creator of "The Deadliest" book series: National Book Festival 25th Anniversary Series

    10/30/2025

    Meet Dr. Eleanor Spicer Rice, creator of "The Deadliest" book series: National Book Festival 25th Anniversary Series

    Send us Fan Mail This conversation was BUGGING me out (in the best way)! I got to interview Dr. Eleanor Spicer Rice, an entomologist and creator of "The Deadliest" book series,  where animals compete game-show style to see who's the most lethal! Dr. Rice broke down the fascinating world of pheromones, the secret chemical messages bugs use to communicate  and it blew my mind! We even played a game from her book series, and you'll never guess what the deadliest sea creature is... hint: it's NOT a shark, but something people actually eat! (Spoiler: puffer fish!) Her enthusiasm for the insect world and deadly creatures was contagious, and now I understand why the smallest and strangest animals are actually the coolest! Join me, Ishara, as I explore the wonders of science and nature with experts who help us see the world in totally new ways. You can watch the entire interview on my YouTube channel.  #EleanorSpicerRice #TheDeadliest #Entomology #Pheromones #PufferFish #ScienceForKids #KidsPodcast #STEMEducation #ChildrensBooks  #nationalbookfestival  Support the show Keep on reading and being an inspiration to each other!  And follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/isharas_reading_podcast/  Please consider becoming a monthly subscriber. All proceeds will be used to buy building materials to create roadside libraries to encourage kids of all age to read. In addition, your donations will support my travels as I hit the road to interview the authors and illustrators of the books I will be reading on the  podcast.  #KidsPodcast, #ChildrensBooks, #ReadAloudPodcast, #StoryTimePodcast, #KidsReading, #BookLovers, #ChildrensLiterature, #KidLit, #RaisingReaders, #ChildrensAuthor, #PictureBooks, #ChapterBooks, #KidsStories, #BedtimeStories, #HomeschoolPodcast, #TeacherResources, #BookishKids

    14 min
  5. Dr. Jorge Cham PHD Comics Creator Talks About Oliver's Universe, Volcanoes, Earthquakes & Science for Kids: National Book Festival 25th Anniversary Series

    10/10/2025

    Dr. Jorge Cham PHD Comics Creator Talks About Oliver's Universe, Volcanoes, Earthquakes & Science for Kids: National Book Festival 25th Anniversary Series

    Send us Fan Mail Ishara had an amazing time at the National Book Festival interviewing the brilliant Dr. Jorge Cham!  Dr. Cham is a cartoonist, author, and the creator of the popular webcomic "PHD Comics" (Piled Higher and Deeper), which hilariously captures life in academia and graduate school. In this exciting interview, Ishara and Dr. Cham dive into his wonderful book "Oliver's Great Big Universe - Volcanoes are Hot", a delightful story that combines science, adventure, and curiosity!   They discuss everything from volcanoes and earthquakes to what a Ph.D. is. Dr. Cham shares his passion for making science accessible and fun for young readers, inspiring kids to ask questions and explore the natural world around them. Dr. Jorge Cham has a background in robotics and engineering, and he's dedicated his career to communicating science in creative and entertaining ways. Beyond "Oliver's Great Big Universe - Volcanoes are Hot," he's also co-created science communication projects and continues to inspire future scientists through his work. This conversation is perfect for young scientists, curious minds, and anyone who loves learning about how our planet works! You can watch the entire interview on Ishara's YouTube Channel. Stay tuned for more interviews from Ishara's 2025 National Book Festival experiences. Support the show Keep on reading and being an inspiration to each other!  And follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/isharas_reading_podcast/  Please consider becoming a monthly subscriber. All proceeds will be used to buy building materials to create roadside libraries to encourage kids of all age to read. In addition, your donations will support my travels as I hit the road to interview the authors and illustrators of the books I will be reading on the  podcast.  #KidsPodcast, #ChildrensBooks, #ReadAloudPodcast, #StoryTimePodcast, #KidsReading, #BookLovers, #ChildrensLiterature, #KidLit, #RaisingReaders, #ChildrensAuthor, #PictureBooks, #ChapterBooks, #KidsStories, #BedtimeStories, #HomeschoolPodcast, #TeacherResources, #BookishKids

    8 min
  6. What Would 'The First Cat in Space' Think of Mac Barnett as National Ambassador? National Book Festival 25th Anniversary Series

    10/01/2025

    What Would 'The First Cat in Space' Think of Mac Barnett as National Ambassador? National Book Festival 25th Anniversary Series

    Send us Fan Mail Ishara is thrilled to share her latest interview with Mac Barnett, the 2025-2026 National Ambassador for Young People's Literature! As the ninth writer to receive this prestigious honor, Mac has been inspiring young readers across the country with his imaginative stories and dedication to fostering a love of reading. Mac Barnett is a celebrated author known for his wildly creative and humor-filled books that captivate kids everywhere. In this delightful interview, Ishara and Mac dive into his hilarious "The First Cat in Space" series, which has become an instant favorite among young readers! 🚀🐱 The series follows an adventurous cat on an epic journey through space, filled with laughs, friendship, and out-of-this-world excitement. During their conversation, Mac shares the inspiration behind this beloved series, his creative process, and what it means to be the National Ambassador for Young People's Literature. He also talks about his mission to encourage kids to embrace their creativity and discover the magic of storytelling. Mac Barnett has written numerous award-winning books, including picture books like "Sam & Dave Dig a Hole", illustrated by Jon Klassen, and middle-grade novels like "The Terrible Two" series. His work has earned him multiple honors and a devoted following of young readers. Want to learn more about Mac's work as National Ambassador and his initiatives to promote reading? Visit the Library of Congress website for updates on his tour and programs!  You can watch the entire interview on Ishara's YouTube Channel.  Recorded live at the National Book Festival Stay tuned for more interviews from Ishara's 2025 National Book Festival experience, including conversations with Jorge Cham, Dr. Eleanor Spicer Rice, Jerry Craft, and Kwame Alexander!  #MacBarnett #TheFirstCatInSpace #NationalAmbassador #NationalBookFestival #KidsLit #ChildrensBooks #YoungReadersLiterature #LibraryOfCongress #ReadingPodcast #KidsPodcast #AuthorInterview #PictureBooks #MiddleGrade #LiteracyMatters #RaisingReaders #BookLovers #ChildrensLiterature #JonKlassen #TheTerribleTwo #SamAndDavDigAHole #SpaceAdventure #KidsReading #BookstagramKids #ReadWithKids #LiteratureForKids #JerryCraft #KwameAlexander #JorgeCham #DrEleanorSpicerRice #IsharasReadingPodcast #YoungReaders #BookFestival2025 Support the show Keep on reading and being an inspiration to each other!  And follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/isharas_reading_podcast/  Please consider becoming a monthly subscriber. All proceeds will be used to buy building materials to create roadside libraries to encourage kids of all age to read. In addition, your donations will support my travels as I hit the road to interview the authors and illustrators of the books I will be reading on the  podcast.  #KidsPodcast, #ChildrensBooks, #ReadAloudPodcast, #StoryTimePodcast, #KidsReading, #BookLovers, #ChildrensLiterature, #KidLit, #RaisingReaders, #ChildrensAuthor, #PictureBooks, #ChapterBooks, #KidsStories, #BedtimeStories, #HomeschoolPodcast, #TeacherResources, #BookishKids

    12 min
  7. BEHIND THE SCENES: Ishara's National Book Festival Favorites!

    09/25/2025

    BEHIND THE SCENES: Ishara's National Book Festival Favorites!

    Send us Fan Mail Ever wonder what it's like to experience the National Book Festival through the eyes of a 10-year-old podcaster? In this special episode, Ishara takes you behind the microphone to share her favorite moments from this year's festival! ISHARA'S TOP SESSIONS:  "J vs. K" - Jerry Craft and Kwame Alexander's dynamic session that had the audience captivated! "Spiders! Volcanoes! Our Scary and Amazing World" - Dr. Eleanor Spicer Rice and Dr. Jorge Cham made science absolutely fascinating! From the creative energy of Jerry Craft and Kwame Alexander's face-off to the mind-blowing science adventures with Dr. Rice and Dr. Cham, Ishara gives you the insider scoop on what made these sessions unforgettable! Plus: Find out which audience questions stuck with her long after the festival ended and why these particular sessions sparked her curiosity the most. Watch the full video episode on Ishara's YouTube channel. Recorded live at the National Book Festival #NationalBookFestival #JerryCraft #KwameAlexander #EleanorSpicerRice #JorgeCham #IsharasReadingPodcast #BookFestival #YoungPodcaster #Science #GraphicNovels #Reading #books #Booknerd #Reading Support the show Keep on reading and being an inspiration to each other!  And follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/isharas_reading_podcast/  Please consider becoming a monthly subscriber. All proceeds will be used to buy building materials to create roadside libraries to encourage kids of all age to read. In addition, your donations will support my travels as I hit the road to interview the authors and illustrators of the books I will be reading on the  podcast.  #KidsPodcast, #ChildrensBooks, #ReadAloudPodcast, #StoryTimePodcast, #KidsReading, #BookLovers, #ChildrensLiterature, #KidLit, #RaisingReaders, #ChildrensAuthor, #PictureBooks, #ChapterBooks, #KidsStories, #BedtimeStories, #HomeschoolPodcast, #TeacherResources, #BookishKids

    6 min
  8. Joy Harjo Interview: Full Circle Reunion with Ishara at the National Book Festival 25th Anniversary Series

    09/24/2025

    Joy Harjo Interview: Full Circle Reunion with Ishara at the National Book Festival 25th Anniversary Series

    Send us Fan Mail Two years ago, when Ishara was just 8 years old, she had the honor of interviewing U.S. Poet Laureate Joy Harjo on season 2 of Ishara's Reading Podcast about her book "Remember." What started as a young reader's curiosity blossomed into something truly special - a genuine connection that Joy treasured just as much as Ishara did! Now, at 10 years old, Ishara gets to interview with Joy Harjo once again at the National Book Festival! This isn't just an interview - it's a reunion between two souls who share a deep love for storytelling and the power of words. EXCLUSIVE BOOK REVEALS: Joy shares exciting details about her THREE new books coming out: "For a Girl Becoming" "Girl Warrior" "Washing My Mother's Body" Watch as they reconnect and see how their bond has grown over the past two years. Joy's warmth and wisdom paired with Ishara's genuine curiosity and growth as a young interviewer creates pure magic. There's something incredibly moving about witnessing how meaningful connections can form across generations when we approach each other with open hearts and authentic interest in each other's stories. You can find the full video interview available on Ishara's YouTube channel.  Recorded live at the National Book Festival #JoyHarjo #ForAGirlBecoming #GirlWarrior #NationalBookFestival #YoungInterviewer #Poetry #NewBooks2024 #BookFestival #Podcast Support the show Keep on reading and being an inspiration to each other!  And follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/isharas_reading_podcast/  Please consider becoming a monthly subscriber. All proceeds will be used to buy building materials to create roadside libraries to encourage kids of all age to read. In addition, your donations will support my travels as I hit the road to interview the authors and illustrators of the books I will be reading on the  podcast.  #KidsPodcast, #ChildrensBooks, #ReadAloudPodcast, #StoryTimePodcast, #KidsReading, #BookLovers, #ChildrensLiterature, #KidLit, #RaisingReaders, #ChildrensAuthor, #PictureBooks, #ChapterBooks, #KidsStories, #BedtimeStories, #HomeschoolPodcast, #TeacherResources, #BookishKids

    4 min
5
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

Hi Everyone! Welcome to my Reading Adventure Podcast—the place where kids can explore exciting books, spark their imagination, and build knowledge through the magic of reading! 🌟 I started this podcast to inspire children around the world to read more books and create their own incredible imaginary worlds. Each week, we'll dive into fun stories, meet new characters, and hear from authors and illustrators about the creative process behind their books. 📖In every episode, I’ll share reading tips and tricks I use to be an amazing reader, helping you become a more confident and creative storyteller. Together, we’ll explore how reading can take us on exciting adventures and teach us new things about the world! 🌍What You'll Find on My Podcast:Exciting book readings for kidsCreative storytelling to build your imaginationInterviews with authors and illustrators for behind-the-scenes inspirationReading hacks and advice to become an awesome readerFun stories that help you learn and growLet’s change the world one book and adventure at a time! Whether you're a beginner reader or already love books, there’s something for everyone in this podcast. Join me on this amazing journey of reading, learning, and pretending—let's build new worlds and become better readers together! 📚✨#readingadventure  #KidsBooks #Imagination #ReadAlong #KidsReading #booknerd #kidlitFollow Me on Instagram: @Isharas_Reading_podcast or watch the podcast on my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@isharasclubSubscribe and Share the Adventure!