Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors Podcast

Mary-Jean Harris, the esteemed author of "Pixie Dusted Ottawa," graces our podcast today to elucidate the inspiration and creative process behind her enchanting children's book.

At the heart of this episode lies the intent to cultivate a sense of wonder and exploration in children, as Mary-Jean aims to inspire young readers to engage with their surroundings in Ottawa through the delightful adventures of her fairy protagonist, Calla.

We delve into the thematic elements of the narrative that encourage imagination and creativity, while also highlighting the significance of local landmarks and businesses that enrich the story's whimsical journey.

Additionally, Mary-Jean shares her experiences in the realm of self-publishing and the intricacies of marketing her literary works, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs that accompany the authorial journey. Join us as we explore the confluence of storytelling and community in this captivating conversation.

The dialogue explores her motivations, literary inspirations, and the profound connection she seeks to establish with her young readers. Mary-Jean articulates her vision of creating a narrative that not only entertains but also serves as a guide for children to discover the hidden gems of Ottawa.

The discussion also traverses the practical aspects of being a self-published author, including the trials of marketing and distribution.

Mary-Jean candidly shares her experiences with local bookstores, events, and the challenges of transitioning from a performer in children’s entertainment to a published author. The episode is rich with practical advice for emerging writers, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, creativity, and the joy of storytelling.

Through her engaging narrative, Mary-Jean invites listeners to reflect on the power of literature in shaping the imaginations of the younger generation, making a compelling case for the enduring relevance of children's books in today's society.

At the heart of this episode lies the intent to cultivate a sense of wonder and exploration in children, as Mary-Jean aims to inspire young readers to engage with their surroundings in Ottawa through the delightful adventures of her fairy protagonist, Calla.

We delve into the thematic elements of the narrative that encourage imagination and creativity, while also highlighting the significance of local landmarks and businesses that enrich the story's whimsical journey.

Additionally, Mary-Jean shares her experiences in the realm of self-publishing and the intricacies of marketing her literary works, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs that accompany the authorial journey. Join us as we explore the confluence of storytelling and community in this captivating conversation.

• The podcast features Mary-Jean Harris, author of 'Pixie Dusted Ottawa', discussing her journey.
• Mary-Jean emphasizes the importance of inspiring creativity and adventure in children through her stories.
• The conversation reveals the challenges of marketing children's books and the need for persistence in promotion.
• Mary-Jean stresses the significance of engaging local businesses to enhance book visibility and sales.
• The episode highlights the unique approach of integrating children's books with existing business ventures.
• Listeners are encouraged to embrace their creativity and remain committed to their writing aspirations.

• http://www.ottawaprincessparties.com/

• Pixie Dusted Ottawa
• Fairy Tale Princess Parties
• Amazon
• IngramSpark
• Indigo

Guest: Richard Rieman, "The Audiobook Wizard"

Richard Rieman has pioneered a transformative approach to children's literature: enhanced audiobooks that include audio descriptions of illustrations. His work is rooted in a deep commitment to inclusivity, especially for children who are blind or visually impaired.

In this conversation, we trace Richard's journey — including how his years volunteering in the blind community opened his eyes to a significant gap in the audiobook market — and dig into why audio descriptions can transform the way everychild experiences an illustrated book, not just those with visual impairments.

We also talk shop: the surprising commercial upside of enhanced audiobooks, why the audiobook market as a whole is booming, and why now is the moment for children's authors to seriously consider investing in this format.

• Richard's path to becoming "The Audiobook Wizard"
• How volunteering in the blind community sparked the idea for enhanced audiobooks
• What audio descriptions are, and how they bring illustrations to life for listeners
• Why enhanced audiobooks benefit blind and low-vision children — and appeal to a much wider audience of young listeners
• The growth of the audiobook market and what it means for authors today
• How enhanced audiobooks can become a meaningful part of an author's marketing strategy
• The bigger picture: inclusivity as a driver of innovation in children's literature

If you're a children's book author, this episode is your nudge to explore enhanced audiobooks as part of your publishing and marketing strategy — for the young listeners who need them, and for the many more who will love them.

Enhanced audiobooks aren't just an accessibility tool — they're a creative opportunity. Richard's work shows how designing for inclusion from the start can open up new audiences, new revenue streams, and a deeper connection between authors and readers of all abilities.

• Richard Rieman, known as the Audiobook Wizard, enhances children's audiobooks through audio description, enriching the experience for visually impaired children.
• The podcast emphasizes the significance of audio description in children's literature, as it bridges the gap between sighted and blind readers, ensuring inclusivity.
• Richard's journey into children's books began with his desire to support the blind community and address the lack of accessible illustrated content in audiobooks.
• Listeners are encouraged to explore the AudioBook Wizard Shop, which offers tools and services aimed at helping authors create and market enhanced audiobooks effectively.

• audiobookwizard
• audiowizard.com
• enhancedaudiobooks.org

• Audiobook Wizard
• Enhanced Audiobooks
• Amplify Audiobooks
• Pro Audio Voices

Links referenced in this episode:

• audiobookwizard
• audiowizard.com
• enhancedaudiobooks.org

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Audiobook Wizard
• Enhanced Audiobooks
• Amplify Audiobooks
• Pro Audio Voices

This episode marks a huge milestone — our 100th episode of Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors! We look back at how it all began, the guests who've shaped this community, and what's coming next.

The podcast began with a simple idea: everyone has a story worth telling, especially those who dream of becoming children's book authors. It started with a personal story — writing an adventure with my granddaughter, Kyra, and a bear named kaboose. That single story opened the door to a bigger mission: showing that writing a children's book isn't reserved for a select few — it's something anyone with a story in them can do.

Over 100 episodes, we've talked with a wide range of authors, each sharing their own path through the world of children's literature — the wins, the setbacks, and everything in between.

We also dig into what "legacy" really means for an author. It's often thought of as something you leave behind — but we make the case that legacy doesn't have to wait. You can watch it happen in real time, in the way your words reach young readers today.

Community, collaboration, and shared experience are at the heart of that idea. No author is on this journey alone — and our guests and listeners have proven that again and again.

To everyone who's tuned in, shared their story, or supported this show over the last 100 episodes — thank you. This community exists because of you.

We're taking everything we've learned from 100 episodes and turning it into a two-volume guide for aspiring children's book authors:

• Volume 1: It's As Easy as Your A, B. Cs: Writing and Publishing a Remarkable Children's Book (late fall 2026) — A roadmap from first idea to finished manuscript.
• Volume 2: The X, Y, Zs if Authorship: Distrbuting, Selling, and Marketing Your Remarkable Children's Book. A guide to distribution and marketing, helping your story find its readers.

Here's to the next 100 episodes — and to every story still waiting to be told.

• The genesis of this podcast was inspired by the author's desire to share stories, particularly those that resonate with children, and reflect personal experiences.
• Throughout 100 episodes, we have explored the journeys of numerous children's book authors, illustrating the diverse paths one can take in this creative endeavor.
• A central theme discussed is that every aspiring author possesses a story worth telling, highlighting the importance of embracing one's narrative.
• The podcast emphasizes that seeking community support and collaboration is essential for authors navigating their publishing journeys.
• The journey of writing and publishing a children's book is multifaceted, requiring both creativity and a strategic approach to marketing and outreach.
• The forthcoming two-volume book series aims to consolidate the insights gained from the podcast, providing a comprehensive resource for aspiring children's book authors.

• Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors Podcast
• Kaboose the Rocky Mountain Bear
• Judy McGee
• Alison Thompson
• Sunny Steps
• Kevin Lestrage
• Billy Finds Bigfoot
• Joy Lanier
• Big Feels
• Kodey Bogart
• Darcy Gyant
• Rusty Austin
• Luz Dang, Sweet Playdate Club
• Steve Bradshaw
• Brave at 19
• Marlee Kostiner
• Garden Wolf Publishing
• Catherine Clark Felts
• Inner Peace Press
• Karim Abound
• Papa Rick Harris
• Sue Murley
• Shirley Murley
• Tanya Acquista
• Money Time
• Pennygirl's Rescue
• Pennygirl Comes Home

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 mission
• The evolution of Ella's Way from idea to nonprofit
• How Ella's Way supports schools, community programs, and a growing network of children's authors
• Sherry's advice for navigating the publishing landscape
• Why storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for teaching empathy and acceptance

• 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.

• ellasway.com
• Stenetta Anthony
• Noel Foy
• Carmella Alexander
• Catherine Felts Clark
• Ralph Tufo

• Ella's Way

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.com
• book link https://a.co/d/09Jq5C78
• Instagram @villareal_mark

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Brockliffhanger.com
• Allegheny State Park
• Great Smoky Mountains
• Amazon
• Ingramsparks
• Goodreads
• Kid Leo Magic
• Mr. V Consulting

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.

• 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.

• @amandaferriss (Instagram)
• Book Amazon, Little Panda and The Sticky Thoughts

• Miriam Laundry Publishing
• IngramSparks

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.

• 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.

• https://www.lillianspagano.com
• Amazon Book
• https://www.instagram.com/paganolillian/
• Facebook

• vip Kids
• Amazon
• Ingram Sparks
• Miriam Laundry Publishing
• Barnes and Noble
• Target

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.

• 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.

• Amazon Book: https://a.co/d/0giCB3YT

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.

• 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.

• Book Amazon: https://a.co/d/047Qe56u
• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ariamarli/
• Website: http://www.ariamarlicollections.com

• Amazon
• KDP
• Ingramspark
• Nike

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.

• 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'.

• https://happysingingkids.com
• https://www.youtube.com/@happysingingkids
• https://www.facebook.com/happysingingkids
• https://www.instagram.com/happysingingkids
• https://open.spotify.com/artist/5pidckPd6eDXfUJmZiPeE9
• https://www.tiktok.com/@happysingingkids
• https://music.amazon.com/albums/B08WH6SYP6?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER