Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast

What happens when imagination meets courage?

In this heartwarming episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, we sit down with children’s author Stephanie Villeda Schaedler, the creative mind behind Mighty, Tiny Antony. Stephanie shares the inspiration behind her story, the importance of representation in children’s literature, and how storytelling can empower young readers to see strength in themselves, no matter their size.

From the first spark of an idea to holding her book in hand, Stephanie takes us through her journey as an author and reminds us why children’s stories matter more than ever.

Whether you are a parent, educator, aspiring author, or simply someone who believes in the power of stories, this conversation will leave you inspired.

 In this episode, we explore:
• The story behind Mighty, Tiny Antony
• Building confidence through children’s books
• The role of imagination in early development
• Advice for aspiring children’s authors Stay connected with Nutmeg Lit Fest and discover more incredible authors shaping the literary world.

What happens when poetry becomes a space for healing, reflection, and truth?

In this episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, host Janaya Hernandez sits down with Sharon Arsego, author of Behind the Blue: Poetry & Prose, to explore the emotional depth and personal power behind her writing.

Sharon shares how poetry became more than just words on a page — it became a way to process life, capture moments, and connect with others on a deeply human level.

Together, we dive into:

• The inspiration behind Behind the Blue

• How poetry can hold emotion, memory, and meaning

• The courage it takes to share your voice through writing

• Why storytelling matters — even in its quietest form

This conversation is a reminder that poetry isn’t just read… It’s felt.

Tune in, reflect, and let the words speak.

What happens when curiosity meets storytelling?

In this episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, host Janaya Hernandez sits down with children’s author Kelly Copperthite Ranalli to explore how stories can spark learning, imagination, and confidence in young readers.

Kelly is the author of The Tale of the Polka Dotted Tardigrade and Friends, a heartwarming and educational children’s book that introduces science, friendship, and curiosity in a way that is both engaging and accessible.

Together, Janaya and Kelly dive into the inspiration behind the book, the importance of early learning through storytelling, and how creativity can help children see the world in new and exciting ways.

This conversation is a reminder that storytelling is not just about entertainment. It is a powerful tool for growth, discovery, and connection.

What does it take to turn imagination into impact?

In this episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, Janaya Hernandez sits down with author and advocate Jordan Lopez to explore the power of storytelling, resilience, and finding your voice through creativity.

From building immersive fantasy worlds to navigating personal and professional challenges, Jordan shares the inspiration behind his books Looked Down Upon: A Masked Wickedness and Looked Down Upon: The Exiled Kin, and how storytelling became both an escape and a form of empowerment.

This conversation goes beyond writing. It dives into identity, perseverance, and the courage it takes to keep showing up — even when the path is uncertain.

If you’ve ever questioned your voice, your journey, or your purpose, this episode will remind you that your story matters.

 Where stories speak.

Where stories speak.

The Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast returns with Season 2, bringing you powerful conversations with authors, creatives, and leaders who are shaping their paths with intention, courage, and voice.

Hosted by Janaya Hernandez, this podcast goes beyond surface-level interviews to explore the stories behind the journey — the moments of growth, the pivots, the challenges, and the breakthroughs that define who we become.

This season is bigger, bolder, and more intentional. Each episode is designed to inspire connection, elevate perspective, and remind you that your story has power.

Whether you are an author, a professional, or someone navigating your next chapter, this is your space to listen, learn, and grow.

Now streaming on all major platforms 

In this episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, we dive into the fascinating world beneath the ocean’s surface with author Elaine M. Alexander.

Elaine is the author of Giant Cuttlefish: Chameleon of the Sea and Anglerfish: The Seadevil of the Deep, two captivating nonfiction books that introduce readers to some of the most mysterious creatures in our oceans.

During this conversation, we explore

• The inspiration behind writing about deep-sea creatures

• How nonfiction storytelling can bring science to life

• The incredible adaptations of cuttlefish and anglerfish

• The importance of curiosity and nature education for young readers

If you love science, nature, and learning about the hidden wonders of the deep ocean, this episode will take you on a journey beneath the waves.

About the Author

Elaine M. Alexander is an author known for her engaging nonfiction books that introduce readers to remarkable ocean creatures. Through vivid storytelling and fascinating facts, she helps readers discover the mysteries of the natural world and the incredible animals that live within it.

Featured Books

Giant Cuttlefish: Chameleon of the Sea

Anglerfish: The Seadevil of the Deep

What happens when life takes an unexpected turn and love shows up anyway?

In this heartfelt episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, we sit down with author Elissa Bass, writer of the novel Please Wait to Cross, to talk about love, reinvention, and the courage to begin again.

Elissa shares the inspiration behind her story, the emotional journey of her characters, and why second chances are often where the real story begins. We explore themes of growth, vulnerability, timing, and what it means to trust yourself when life does not go according to plan.

If you believe in fresh starts, unexpected connections, and stories that feel both intimate and hopeful, this episode is for you.

 Listen in and discover why sometimes the best chapters come after the plot twist.

What makes short fiction so powerful?

How do suspense and noir create unforgettable tension in just a few pages?

In this episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, I sit down with Steve Liskow, author of Sweet Ladies of Death, to explore the craft of suspense writing, the art of noir storytelling, and why short fiction continues to captivate readers.

Steve shares insights on:

• Writing compelling short stories

• Building tension without wasting a single word

• The influence of classic noir

• Why morally complex characters make stories unforgettable

• Lessons learned from decades of writing and teaching

Whether you are a writer, reader, or lover of dark, twisty fiction, this conversation will leave you thinking differently about the power of storytelling.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, we sit down with author and founder Melissa B. Lombardo to explore how storytelling becomes a pathway to healing, resilience, and transformation.

Melissa shares the inspiration behind her book Hurt, Healing, and Hope and the personal experiences that shaped her mission to create safe spaces for reflection, recovery, and growth. Through honest conversation, she discusses the role of writing in processing trauma, building community, and helping survivors reclaim their voices.

As the founder of Write, Heal, Thrive, Melissa continues to support individuals and communities through the power of narrative, compassion, and connection. This episode offers a meaningful look at how stories can guide us through pain and into purpose.

This conversation is ideal for survivors, educators, advocates, writers, and anyone seeking hope through authentic storytelling and shared experience.

Tune in to discover how writing can become a tool for healing and a bridge to understanding.

Listen now and join us as stories speak and healing begins.

In this episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, we sit down with suspense author Sharon Dukett to explore the world behind her novel The Shutdown List.

We talk about what fuels high-stakes storytelling, how real-world tension shapes fiction, and the craft of building suspense that keeps readers turning pages late into the night.

From political intrigue to personal courage, Sharon shares her creative process, the inspiration behind her characters, and what it takes to write stories that feel urgent, intelligent, and impossible to put down.

 What you will hear in this episode

• The inspiration behind The Shutdown List

• Writing conspiracy and danger with authenticity

• Building tension and pacing that grips readers

• The discipline behind writing fast paced suspense

• Advice for writers navigating complex storylines

 Listen now and discover the story behind the suspense. 

New episodes every Tuesday.