Home Podcasts Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors Podcast
Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors Podcast

Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors Podcast

Papa Rick Harris 100 Episodes Sep 15, 2026

Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors is an award-winning podcast that introduces readers to published children's book authors and their heartfelt stories. It also helps aspiring authors understand the journey of writing, illustrating, editing, formatting, publishing, distributing, marketing, and selling children's books. Each episode features a different author discussing their creative process, the challenges they faced, and the business side of building a career. The show highlights traditional, hybrid, self-publishing, and independent paths while encouraging listeners that becoming an author is achievable.

Episodes

Ep. 101: Ella's Way — How One Children's Book Sparked a Kindness Movement (Sherry Cerino)
Ep. 101: Ella's Way — How One Children's Book Sparked a Kindness Movement (Sherry Cerino) Sep 15, 2026 01:01:00 Episode SummarySherry 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 fr
From the Trails to the Page: Author Mark Villarreal on Raising the Next Generation of Nature Explorers
From the Trails to the Page: Author Mark Villarreal on Raising the Next Generation of Nature Explorers Sep 8, 2026 55:56 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 arti
"She Wrote the Book She Needed as a Little Girl — Now It's Helping Kids Feel Less Alone"
"She Wrote the Book She Needed as a Little Girl — Now It's Helping Kids Feel Less Alone" Sep 1, 2026 01:01:13 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 re
"She Never Left Home — But Her Students Were 7,000 Miles Away. Then She Wrote Them a Book."
"She Never Left Home — But Her Students Were 7,000 Miles Away. Then She Wrote Them a Book." Aug 25, 2026 01:05:29 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
How Storytelling Shapes a Career and Builds a Legacy
How Storytelling Shapes a Career and Builds a Legacy Aug 18, 2026 01:24:36 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 sail
'Not Every Boat Is Yours to Fix': Teaching Kids Boundaries Before People-Pleasing Starts
'Not Every Boat Is Yours to Fix': Teaching Kids Boundaries Before People-Pleasing Starts Aug 11, 2026 01:05:20 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 reflection
How to Combine Music and Storytelling to Create Powerful Children's Books
How to Combine Music and Storytelling to Create Powerful Children's Books Aug 4, 2026 01:06:24 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 se
"How a Jellybean, a Family, and a Little Persuasion Sparked a Children's Book Series"
"How a Jellybean, a Family, and a Little Persuasion Sparked a Children's Book Series" Jul 28, 2026 59:32 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
How Life Experiences and Friendships Inspired a Children's Book Author
How Life Experiences and Friendships Inspired a Children's Book Author Jul 21, 2026 01:08:34 The profound essence of this podcast episode lies in the exploration of vulnerability and the transformative power of friendship, as articulated by our esteemed guest, Veronica O'Sullivan.She elucidates the inspiration behind her children's book, "Glory B," which is intricately woven from her enduring friendship with Lisa Olson, a remarkable individual born without limbs.Veronica reflects on the s
From Classroom to Author: Teaching Kids Empathy, Diversity & Acceptance Through Storytelling
From Classroom to Author: Teaching Kids Empathy, Diversity & Acceptance Through Storytelling Jul 14, 2026 01:05:04 Kevin Cripe, an accomplished author of three children's books, shares his insights on the process and inspiration behind his latest work, "Princess Max Conquers the World."With a background in education spanning 27 years, Kevin's passion for storytelling was ignited during his teaching days, where he found joy in reading to children and witnessing their reactions to stories. He recounts the pivota
Why Fables Still Matter: Timeless Lessons for Today's Kids
Why Fables Still Matter: Timeless Lessons for Today's Kids Jul 7, 2026 52:46 Why Fables Still Matter: Timeless Lessons for Today's KidsPatti Bonesteel, an accomplished author of six children's books, articulates her journey of writing and the profound significance it holds in her life.Central to our discussion is her book, "The Flamingo with Two Left Feet," which not only showcases her storytelling prowess but also emphasizes the themes of perseverance and self-acceptance.
Can Children's Books Heal Trauma? Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences
Can Children's Books Heal Trauma? Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences Jun 30, 2026 48:52 Episode 88Jacqueline K. Boylan's profound work, "A Broken Twig Can Sprout," serves as the focal point of our discussion, encapsulating her journey from personal trauma to literary creation.As a children's author, Jacqueline articulates the vital message that adverse childhood experiences do not have to define one's future; rather, they can cultivate resilience and growth.Throughout the episode, we

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