Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors Podcast

Kodak Bogart, the distinguished author of the Helo Girls series, highlights the profound significance of representation in children's literature, particularly within the realms of aviation and public service.

The episode delves into her background as a Black Hawk helicopter aviator and her transition into writing, driven by a desire to share the exhilarating world of helicopters and the vital work of female pilots with young audiences.

Through her engaging narratives, she not only aims to entertain but also to empower children, fostering an appreciation for the diverse roles that helicopters play in society, from firefighting...

The focus of this discussion centers on the notion that many aspiring children's book authors maintain a tacit secrecy regarding their literary creations.

I discuss the issue that the journey toward becoming a published children's book author is often fueled by an intrinsic passion rather than the pursuit of monetary gain or acclaim. Furthermore, I emphasize the prevalent lack of formal business practice among authors, which often leads them to overlook crucial aspects of marketing and sales.

The episode explores the operational dynamics of hybrid publishing services, which, while adept at producing aesthetically pleasing books...

The focal point of our discussion centers on the enchanting children's book, "Charlie and Sophie's Great Escape," authored by Farial.

This literary work is inspired by the true story of two border collie puppies, Charlie and Sophie, who were adopted from a rescue and brought immense joy and vitality into the author's life.

Throughout our conversation, Farial articulates her motivations for writing this book, emphasizing the connection between the puppies' spirited antics and the universal experiences of childhood curiosity and adventure.

Additionally, we delve into the intricate process of transforming personal narratives into...

This podcast episode's primary focus is on establishing a structured revenue model for children's book authors during school visits and reading events.

As we reflect on our experiences, as the host, I recall a recent engagement at my grandson's school, where I discovered that the older audience, comprising students aged 11 and 12, showed a greater interest in the mechanics of writing children's literature than in purchasing my book.

This revelation underscores a broader issue: many children's book authors lack a well-defined strategy for monetizing school visits, often giving way to requests for free appearances without securing...

Amber B. Mitchell joins us to discuss her enchanting children's book, The Chickadee Who Knew. The book embodies the themes of discovering home's true meaning and perspective's transformative power.

In our conversation, she elucidates her unique creative process, which is deeply rooted in personal experiences and her desire to inspire positivity in children.

Amber also shares insights into the challenges and triumphs of being a children's book author, including her unconventional use of a puppet to engage young audiences during readings.

Furthermore, we explore the intricacies of her publishing journey and how she...

The podcast engages in a profound dialogue with David Cervi, the proprietor of DJC Graphic Designs, emphasizing the critical role a website plays for children's book authors.

David elucidates the distinction between a book-specific website and one dedicated to the author themselves, highlighting that a personal domain grants more control and ownership.

The podcast underscores the concept of a digital home, contrasting it with the transient nature of social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, where authors lack autonomy over their presence and outreach.

David stresses that establishing a website is not...

This podcast episode delves into the intricacies of supporting aspiring children's book authors in their journey towards self-publishing. The discussion centers on the essential elements that transform written narratives and illustrations into a polished final product. We engage with Konn, an award-winning author and graphic designer, who elucidates the various aspects of book cover design, formatting, and the crucial preparatory steps necessary for self-publishing a children's book. The episode aims to demystify self-publishing, providing practical insights to alleviate the common anxieties associated with authorship. Listeners can expect to gain valuable knowledge that will empower them to navigate the complexities...

This podcast episode is dedicated to the pivotal concept of assembling a Dream Team to facilitate the journey of self-publishing a children's book. As we reflect on insights garnered from our previous episodes, it becomes evident that the collective support of various professionals is indispensable in transforming an author's vision into a tangible reality. We shall explore the essential roles within this Dream Team, highlighting the significance of each member, including the author, editor, illustrator, and format designer, as well as the sustainability experts who ensure the book’s longevity in the market. Moreover, we will address critical inquiries, su...

Karen B. Shea is a passionate children's book author whose works aim to connect young readers with the wonders of nature.

Her latest publication, "A Bug-Lightful Discovery," emphasizes the importance of appreciating even the smallest creatures. It presents an engaging narrative that encourages respect for all life forms.

Her writing is inspired by her profound love for the outdoors and her desire to combat nature deficit disorder among children, an issue she became aware of in the 1990s.

Throughout this conversation, we explore the creative process behind both her books, including the delightful...

This podcast episode reflects the invaluable lessons gleaned from our first 25 episodes, wherein we delve into the profound insights shared by numerous children's book authors.

It is imperative to acknowledge that the essence of our endeavour lies in fostering a community that resonates with the heartfelt aspirations of these authors, who are not merely creators but also doers, enriching the literary landscape for children across the globe.

Through this discourse, we aim to illuminate the pathways to successful authorship, emphasizing the significance of mentorship and collaboration among aspiring writers.

Furthermore, I aspire to...

This podcast episode features an in-depth conversation with Sarah Doran, a distinguished author known for her works, "The Peppered Sky" and "Sleeping Giants."

Central to our discussion is the inspiration drawn from her experiences as a military child, which significantly informs her writing.

We delve into the unique aspects of her stories, which aim to represent military families and bridge the gap between civilian understanding and the military lifestyle.

Sarah shares her journey as a veteran and her challenges in publishing her books, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and quality in children's literature. <...

The essence of this podcast episode centers around a profound exploration of hope as articulated by author Andrea Coyne in her children's book, *Hope is a Blanket*.

Through a candid dialogue, we delve into the inspiration behind the book, which emerged from personal experiences of grief and loss, notably a miscarriage that profoundly impacted her family.

Coyne articulates the importance of inclusivity in children's literature, aiming to create characters that resonate with all children, fostering an environment where difficult conversations about loss can occur.

The discussion further highlights her unique publishing journey, characterized...

This podcast episode features a profound discussion with Charlotte Glaze, the author and illustrator of Storm Trucks, a children's book.

The primary focus of our conversation revolves around the inspiration that led to the creation of this book, which emerged from her personal experiences with her son's fear of thunderstorms.

Charlotte reveals her unique approach to self-publishing, emphasizing the merits of crafting a narrative that resonates with children and their families.

We delve into the intricate processes involved in publishing, illustrating, and marketing a children's book and highlight the significance of community engagement...

Joan Epp, the author of the children's book "Ice Cap," shares her inspiring journey of writing and publishing this delightful work.

The book's genesis arose during a snowy day spent reading with her granddaughter, Audrey, sparking a collaborative creation that combines the magic of childhood imagination with the essence of Canadian culture.

Joan's extensive experience as an elementary teacher has informed her approach. She emphasizes the importance of storytelling in fostering connection and understanding among young readers.

As we delve into her motivations and the intricate process of bringing "Ice Cap" to life...

Monica Voicu Denniston joins us to discuss her engaging children's book, "Maggie the Military Rat," which explores the unique experiences of military children.

Central to our conversation is the inspiration behind Maggie, a character that resonates with the challenges and resilience of those navigating military life.

Monica shares her journey, from her early love of storytelling to the trials of publishing amidst the demands of a military lifestyle.

We delve into the intricacies of character development, mainly how Maggie embodies the spirit of perseverance, and the importance of fostering empathy through literature.

This podcast episode elucidates the intricacies of launching a children's book, specifically focusing on the forthcoming release titled "Some Angels Have Rotor Blades" by Children's Book author Darcy Guyant.

I have had the privilege of being invited to join the book launch team. This role encompasses providing an honest review and purchasing the book on its official launch date, March 8, 2025.

The primary objective of this initiative is to enhance the book's visibility on platforms such as Amazon, thereby facilitating its discovery by a broader audience.

In a particularly engaging segment, I converse with...

Aaron Measer, the author of seven children's books, shares his journey into writing and the heartfelt inspiration behind his first book, "My Day with Grandma."

He discusses the profound impact of his grandparents on his life and how their memories sparked his desire to create stories that resonate with both children and adults.

As he reflects on the writing process, Aaron emphasizes the importance of authenticity in storytelling, arguing that specific personal experiences can connect deeply with readers.

Throughout the conversation, he offers valuable insights for aspiring authors, encouraging them to embrace the...

Lacy Moore shares her inspiring journey of becoming a children's book author, highlighting her debut work, "Scaly Feet in a Sound so Sweet," which presents a unique rhyming alphabet adventure. With over 15 years of teaching experience, Lacy emphasizes the importance of making learning fun and engaging for children, using her own sons as inspiration for her writing. She discusses the techniques she employed to help children learn the alphabet through rhythm and rhyme, making education feel less like a chore. Lacy's experience in the publishing world showcases her hybrid approach, utilizing both self-publishing and support from a community of...

Darcy Guyant, the author of the Coast Guard Adventures of Dolphin Gwen series, shares his journey of inspiration and writing in this engaging podcast.

Drawing from his military background as a Coast Guard helicopter pilot, Darcy discusses how his personal experiences shaped his storytelling, particularly in creating relatable characters for children.

His books emphasize the importance of courage, teamwork, and trust, highlighting how these themes resonate with young readers.

Throughout the conversation, Darcy also offers valuable insights for aspiring authors, stressing the significance of proper editing and the challenges of self-publishing.

...

Lisa Ascolese, known as the Inventress, takes listeners on a heartfelt journey into her life as a creative force behind children's lullabies.

With a rich background in music and invention, her passion shines through as she recounts how her love for piano, which she was denied as a child, ultimately led her to write original lullabies for her children over 20 years ago.

As a grandmother, Lisa is inspired by her grandchildren, particularly Olivia, who sings the lullabies back to her. This rekindled connection prompts Lisa to compile her cherished melodies and lyrics into a book...

Erin also explores her goals for reaching school libraries across all 50 states and her innovative approach to fundraising through book sales and community engagement.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the self-publishing journey, the significance of sharing personal stories, and the rewarding experience of connecting with readers and aspiring authors.

Erin Mariah Murphy opens up about her dual life as a commercial airline pilot and a children's book author, detailing how her passion for animal rescue led her to write *Halfway Home* and *Daring Dexter*.

The episode takes listeners through Erin's compelling narrative...

Tanya Acquista, a passionate children's book author and speech-language pathologist, shares her journey of writing and self-publishing her book, "Money Time."

She emphasizes the importance of understanding time management for children and adults, drawing parallels between managing time and spending money.

Tanya discusses her unique approach to promoting her book, including sending personalized PR kits to selected individuals to create a memorable impression.

Throughout the conversation, she highlights the significance of being true to oneself and embracing creativity, encouraging aspiring authors to take risks and share their stories.

With warmth and...

Denise Cesare shares her inspiring journey of writing her children's book, "Moments in Motion with Love," which emerged during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

As a seasoned speech-language pathologist, Denise witnessed the emotional disconnect in her students during lockdown.

She felt compelled to create a resource to help heal and connect children through love and self-acceptance.

Her book emphasizes the importance of loving oneself, each other, and the planet, fostering conversations crucial for children's emotional well-being.

Throughout the discussion, Denise reflects on her students' profound impact on her writing and...

Lynn and Jonathan share their inspiring journey of creating "Robby the Dyslexic Taxi and the Airport Adventure," a children's book that gives a voice to those with Dyslexia and promotes understanding among young readers.

The story emerged during the COVID-19 lockdown as a family project, reflecting their collective experiences and challenges with Dyslexia.

Jonathan, who has been personally affected by Dyslexia, discusses the importance of representation in children's literature and how they aimed to create discussions around differences rather than stigmas.

The duo emphasizes their self-publishing journey, the lessons learned, and plans to...

The engaging dialogue between Rick and Chelsea Kim highlights the profound impact of children's literature, centred around Chelsea's debut work, "Carol the Carrot Bowls for the Salad Bowl."

The episode begins with Rick sharing his excitement about the book he plans to read with his five grandchildren.

Chelsea reflects on her teaching background as the catalyst for her writing journey, emphasizing that every child is unique, like the colourful ingredients in a salad. This theme resonates throughout her book, encouraging readers to celebrate diversity and recognize the strength of differences.

Chelsea elaborates on...

Terri shares her inspiring journey as a children's book author, highlighting the importance of perseverance and creativity in bringing stories to life.

Her book, "Santa's Simon," has evolved. It was initially self-published in the 1980s and recently revived with professional support.

Terri emphasizes the significance of community and the connections formed through storytelling, encouraging aspiring authors to take action and embrace the writing process, no matter how imperfect.

The conversation delves into the creative process, character development, and the joy of engaging with young readers, reaffirming that success is measured by sales and...

Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of self-publishing children's books, highlighted by The Adventures of Kaboose the Rocky Mountain Bear.

Papa Rick shares the heartwarming story of how our family ties, particularly with my granddaughter Kyra, sparked the creation of a beloved children's book series.

With over 38 titles written, the challenges of self-publishing, including financial commitments and marketing efforts, are candidly discussed.

If you can support us in any way, please click on the Tips in the Cookie Jar:  " link; we appreciate all contributions.

The episode also explores the imp...

Understanding your "why" is crucial for anyone considering becoming a children's book author. It helps you navigate the challenges of publishing, whether traditional or self-publishing.

This episode delves into the motivations behind writing children's books, highlighting that most authors are driven by a passion for storytelling rather than financial gain.

Listeners will gain insights into the realities of the publishing world, including the odds of securing a literary agent and the typical sales figures for self-published and traditionally published books.

The discussion also emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement and community support among...

Join us as we embark on a delightful journey through the enchanting world of Kaboose, the Rocky Mountain Bear, inspired by our family's cherished adventures in the breathtaking Rocky Mountains of Alberta, Canada.

This conversation features our oldest grandson, Leland, who has played a pivotal role in shaping our children's book series, contributing his unique insights and ideas.

Together, we reminisce about our shared experiences, from the magic of Canmore to the thrill of skiing at Lake Louise, and explore how these memories have become the foundation for captivating stories.

Leland shares his...

Today's episode is based on "Which Came First, Chicken or the Egg?"

Several years ago, scientists tried to prove which came first, and according to their research, the chicken came first. It had to do with cell formation, but I don't want to get too far down that Chicken Hole, lol!

That data was reported as evidence that the chicken was first, but even the scientists whose study it was weren't too convinced, with one of them calling the question "fun but pointless."

At the end of the day, as a children's book rea...

Welcome to Episode Five of the Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors podcast.

Join us as we explore the inspiring journey behind the children's book "The Adventures of Kaboose the Rocky Mountain Bear," co-authored by Rick and his granddaughter Kyra.

They share how their love for outdoor adventures in the small Rocky Mountain town of Bighead sparked the creation of Kaboose, an adventurous bear that embodies the beauty of nature and community.

The episode highlights their successful marketing strategy, demonstrating how a small-town media approach caught the attention of larger platforms...

Welcome to Episode Four of the Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors podcast. (This podcast show can be found on Kaboose on the Rocky Mountain Bear website.)

This podcast episode is about our youngest grandson, Cooper and starting a new school year.

Papa Rick interviews Cooper about starting a new school experience.

As Children's Book readers, we hope you enjoy this podcast and hear how Cooper was inspired to become a children's book author and narrator.

If you can support us in any way, please click on the Tips i...

Welcome to Episode Three of the Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors podcast. (This podcast show can be found on Kaboose on the Rocky Mountain Bear website.)

Join us as we explore the heartwarming adventures of Kaboose, the Rocky Mountain Bear, and her cousin Bailey, the Beaver.

In this episode, we explore the creation of their latest audiobook, "High Jinks at the Big Head Folk Music Festival," inspired by their experiences at the Canmore Folk Music Festival.

The conversation emphasizes the importance of capturing special moments and turning them into stories...

Join us for a heartwarming conversation as we explore the adventures that inspired the creation of "Kaboose the Rocky Mountain Bear," a series that has blossomed from the cherished memories of a grandpa and granddaughter duo.

Kyra shares her reflections on growing up in Canmore, Alberta, and the magic of the Rocky Mountains that shaped her childhood experiences.

The episode dives into the joy of creative storytelling and how childhood imagination can bring diverse characters, like a bear and a bunny, together as siblings.

Listeners will be inspired to engage with their families...

Welcome to the first episode of "Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors," in which we explore the journey of becoming a children's book author through personal stories and life lessons.

This episode focuses on a living legacy, emphasizing engaging with and shaping one's legacy while still alive instead of merely leaving behind material possessions or messages after death.

The narrative unfolds through the adventures of Kyra, the author's granddaughter, and how her imaginative spirit inspired the creation of their first children's book. Listeners will discover how everyday experiences can spark creativity and storytelling...