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In this unforgettable episode of Ishara's Reading Podcast, Ishara sits down with His Excellency Victor Fernandes, Ambassador of Barbados to the United States, for a heartfelt conversation about family, hard work, service, and the power of believing in yourself.

As a fellow Barbadian by heritage, Ishara felt an immediate connection to the country and its people. Together, she and Ambassador Fernandes discuss his remarkable journey, from discovering broadcasting at a young age to representing Barbados on the world stage as a diplomat.

Along the way, they explore what it means to pursue your dreams with determination, why curiosity and creativity matter, and how every child can build a future through hard work, integrity, and a willingness to keep learning.

Their conversation also takes a delightful turn into literature, Shakespeare, and what life was like before television, when families and communities gathered to tell stories, perform plays, and entertain one another through imagination.

This episode is a celebration of heritage, identity, and the values that unite us across generations. It reminds us that we can honor where our families came from while embracing the opportunities of the country we call home.

As someone proud of her Barbadian heritage, Ishara is honored to dedicate this episode to the people of Barbados and to the memory of National Hero Sir Garfield Sobers. His life reminds us what can be achieved through talent, character, and a deep love for one's country. The values found on Barbados' Coat of Arms, Pride and Industry are reflected throughout this conversation. They remind us that where we come from can inspire where we're going.

Whether you're interested in leadership, history, journalism, or simply hearing a thoughtful conversation across generations, we hope you'll enjoy watching this special episode. And be sure to listen/download this episode from any of your favorite streaming platforms.

Learn More About Barbados

🇧🇧 Barbados Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade
🌎 H.E. Victor Fernandes – Ambassador of Barbados to the United States
🤝 Permanent Mission of Barbados to the Organization of American States (OAS) 

#IsharasReadingPodcast #Barbados #VictorFernandes #BarbadianPride #YouthLeadership #FutureLeaders #DreamBig #HardWork #Heritage #Diplomacy #KidsCanLead #LibraryOfCongress #Family #Education

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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

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Can someone who didn't enjoy reading as a child grow up to become one of today's most celebrated authors?

In this inspiring episode of Ishara's Reading Podcast, recorded at the Library of Congress National Book Festival, Ishara interviews Newbery Medal and Coretta Scott King Award-winning author and illustrator Jerry Craft.

Jerry shares his remarkable journey from a child who rarely picked up a book to an internationally acclaimed author whose stories have inspired millions of young readers.

Together, they discuss:
📚 His path to becoming an author and illustrator
🏆 What it feels like to receive some of children's literature's highest honors
🤝 His friendship and creative connection with fellow author Kwame Alexander
💡 Why representation and storytelling matter
✨ How reading can spark imagination, confidence, and creativity in every child

Jerry's message is one every young reader, and every reluctant reader, needs to hear: your story matters, and it's never too late to discover the joy of books.

You can watch this episode on my YouTube Channel.

Recorded live at the Library of Congress National Book Festival.

Don't forget to Like, Comment, and Subscribe for more inspiring conversations with bestselling authors, illustrators, scientists, and leaders from around the world.

#JerryCraft #LibraryOfCongress #NationalBookFestival #IsharasReadingPodcast #KidsBooks #GraphicNovels #Reading #Literacy #YouthJournalist #AwardWinningAuthor #Books #FutureAuthors

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

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What happens when kids are given access to the world's knowledge?

In this special episode of Ishara’s Reading Podcast, Ishara visits The Source, the Library of Congress's newest permanent exhibit designed to help children, families, and lifelong learners discover the power of asking questions, investigating evidence, and exploring primary sources.

From historic documents and photographs to films, maps, recordings, and rare artifacts, The Source invites visitors to become researchers and discover how knowledge is created, preserved, and shared. Rather than simply being told the answers, visitors are encouraged to follow their curiosity and learn how to find answers for themselves.

During an exclusive media day, Ishara explores the exhibit, meets the people behind its creation, and learns how the Library of Congress is helping inspire the next generation of readers, thinkers, scientists, historians, and innovators.

This episode is a celebration of curiosity, discovery, and the idea that every great adventure begins with a question.

📍 Recorded at the Library of Congress

You can watch this interview on my YouTube Channel

#TheSource #LibraryOfCongress #IsharasReadingPodcast #YouthJournalist #KidsWhoRead #FutureResearchers #CuriositySparksDiscovery #HomeschoolLife #STEMKids #LibraryLife #LearningThroughPlay #KidReporter #EducationalPodcast #StudentJournalist #FutureLeaders #PrimarySources #ResearchSkills #LiteracyMatters #FamilyLearning #BooksAndBeyond

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

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In this magical episode of Ishara’s Reading Podcast, Ishara goes behind the scenes at the Library of Congress for an unforgettable conversation with bestselling author Katherine Rundell, creator of Impossible Creatures!

Together they explore mythical creatures, fantasy worlds, storytelling, imagination, and the magic behind creating unforgettable adventures for young readers. From dragons and griffins to courage and friendship, this episode is a journey into a world where impossible things become possible. 

Featuring backstage access, literary magic, and one incredible author interview, this is an episode fantasy lovers won’t want to miss!

Stream now on Ishara’s Reading Podcast YouTube Channel: Check it out!

#ImpossibleCreatures #KatherineRundell #IsharasReadingPodcast #FantasyBooks #MiddleGradeFantasy #LibraryOfCongress #BookPodcast #YoungJournalist #KidsWhoRead #FantasyAdventure

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

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Happy Independence Day, Guyana! 🇬🇾

Welcome to a very special episode of Ishara’s Reading Podcast! 

Earlier this year, Ishara had the incredible opportunity to visit Guyana during International Women’s Day celebrations, and it became an experience she will never forget. 💛💚❤️

From meeting the First Lady to interviewing government ministers, entrepreneurs, and changemakers, Ishara explored the beauty, brilliance, and culture of the country connected to her own heritage.

This special podcast series begins with her experience at the WE LIFT Expo, Guyana’s major women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship conference held during International Women’s Day celebrations, bringing together hundreds of women business leaders and innovators.

In this first episode, Ishara interviews Minister Priya Manickchand, inspiring female entrepreneurs, and women building the future of Guyana through leadership, creativity, and innovation.

And this is only the beginning!

More episodes from Guyana are coming soon featuring powerful conversations, unforgettable moments, and a young journalist discovering her roots through storytelling. You can watch this episode on my Youtube Channel: Ishara’s Journey: Science, Skating, and Podcast

#Guyana #GuyanaIndependence #InternationalWomensDay #WeLiftGuyana #IsharasReadingPodcast #WomenWhoLead #CaribbeanGirls #YouthJournalist #GirlsInMedia #PodcastKids #STEMGirls #FutureLeaders

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

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10 year old Junior journalist and podcast host Ishara had the incredible honor of interviewing cancer immunotherapy pioneer Dr. Brian Czerniecki following his keynote presentation at the Pennies In Action Foundation Gala hosted by Olympic coach Uschi Keszler. 

Pennies In Action is dedicated to supporting Dr. Czerniecki's groundbreaking cancer research while helping patients access innovative “Right to Try” treatment options that may otherwise be financially out of reach. Through advocacy, fundraising, and education, the foundation continues to bring hope to patients and families facing some of the most difficult cancer diagnoses.

Dr. Czerniecki, a nationally recognized researcher at Moffitt Cancer Center, is helping advance the future of cancer immunotherapy through his groundbreaking work in dendritic cell (DC1) therapy, an innovative approach designed to train the body’s immune system to recognize and fight cancer.

The evening became even more meaningful as Ishara was officially installed as the first Madam President of Kids in Action a powerful reminder that young voices can lead, inspire, and create meaningful impact.

You can watch this interview on Ishara's YouTube Channel 

Through Ishara’s Reading Podcast, STEM advocacy, and competitive figure skating, Ishara continues to inspire curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.


#IsharasReadingPodcast #CancerImmunotherapy #CancerResearch #STEM #DC1 #PodcastHost #JuniorJournalist #YoungLeaders #PenniesInAction #KidsInAction #WomenInScience #YouthInSTEM

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

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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

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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

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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

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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