Best Author Talk with L and B Podcasts (2025)

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Kendrick Lamar's Music is Now a College Course — Professor Timothy Welbeck Explains🎙 1:03:30

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10h ago1:03:30

1:03:30

On this episode of Bookum Creators Talk Podcast, Professor Timothy Welbeck from Temple University explains why Kendrick Lamar's music has become college curriculum and how hip-hop education is transforming academic discourse. In this comprehensive interview, we explore hip-hop as a scholarly discipline, the cultural impact of Kendrick Lamar, and th…

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Ask B&L: Book Coaching? What even is that? 35:45

9d ago35:45

35:45

Send us a text Episode Summary: In this Ask B&L episode, Lisa interviews Beth about her work as a book coach and what aspiring authors need to know before querying. Beth shares how she supports writers through revisions, builds their confidence, and helps them reach submission-ready status. Guest Bio: Beth McMullen is the author of multiple middle …

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The Story of MoviePass, Hollywood, and What It's Takes to be an Entrepreneur with Stacy Spikes l 🎙 52:25

12d ago52:25

52:25

Make sure to like, comment, and subscribe to our channel. My Guest to Today is the Spectacular Stacy Spikes. Stacy is the Author of Black Founder - The Hidden Power of Being an Outsider. Stacy is also the co-founder of MoviePass. MoviePass is a subscription-based movie ticketing service. Prior to MoviePass, Stacy worked at Motown Universal and was …

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How to Start & Run Book Clubs: Mishayla Twyman on Growing a 1,500+ Member Community in Austin, TX 35:35

20d ago35:35

35:35

In this episode of Creators Talk Podcast, we sit down with Mishayla Twyman, founder and creator of Your Local Book Club ATX, to explore how she built a thriving book community of over 1,500 members in Austin, TX. From childhood favorites to her top book club picks, Mishayla shares her book‑picking process, collaboration tips, and the behind‑the‑sce…

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Navigating KidLit and Publishing Realities with Agent Joyce Sweeney 35:03

24d ago35:03

35:03

Send us a text Episode Summary: In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, literary agent and author Joyce Sweeney joins Beth and Lisa to explore the challenges and opportunities in today’s publishing landscape. With decades of experience, Joyce shares invaluable advice for writers on market trends, querying, agent relationships, and staying resilie…

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We Asked Author Marc Avery How to Write a Killer Crime Thriller--Here’s What He Said🎙 38:38

27d ago38:38

38:38

In this episode of the Author Talks Podcast, we sit down with crime fiction writer Marc Avery to break down how he built suspense, voice, and character in his new thriller Discipline. From writing villains to navigating the publishing process, Marc shares what it takes to write a killer crime thriller set in the heart of Philadelphia. If you're int…

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BONUS: How to Write Action That Kids Can’t Put Down (an interview with author & book coach Beth McMullen) 21:47

1M ago21:47

21:47

Send us a text 🎙️ Episode Summary: In this bonus episode, Beth McMullen switches roles from co-host to guest to explore how to write compelling action and adventure for middle grade readers. Originally recorded for Sara Gentry's KidLit Summer Camp, this conversation is packed with practical tips and emotional insight for writers crafting page-turni…

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Voice Acting Behind the Scenes: Khaya Fraites on Her Creative Process & The Fourth Wing Audiobook 46:34

1M ago46:34

46:34

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Khaya Fraites the voice behind Violet Sorrengail in the beloved Fourth Wing Dramatized Audiobook series. As a writer, director, and voice actor, Khaya shares her unique perspective on bringing characters to life across multiple creative mediums. In this episode, we dive deep into her journey from theater to…

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Is AI a Useful Tool? (An Ask B&L Episode) 33:28

1M ago33:28

33:28

Send us a text In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, the hosts dive into the complex topic of using artificial intelligence as a writing tool. They share personal anecdotes, practical strategies, and ethical considerations for writers navigating AI in the creative process. Key Discussion Points: Recent Highlights: Beth and Lisa reference two previous ep…

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McDonald’s History in Black America: Burgers, Fries, and Protests w/ Dr. Marcia Chatelain 1:02:37

1M ago1:02:37

1:02:37

In this powerful episode of the Bookum Author Talk Podcast, we sit down with Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Dr. Marcia Chatelain to explore her groundbreaking book, Franchise: The Golden Arches in Black America. We trace the hidden history of McDonald’s in Black neighborhoods—from post-civil rights era franchising to protests, advertising, health…

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How Hulk Hogan and the NWO Took Over Wrestling | WCW & WWE Stories w/ Marc Raimondi 1:10:17

2M ago1:10:17

1:10:17

We talk about everything from Hogan’s record-breaking WCW deal to the NWO’s cultural crossover with hip-hop, Monday Night Wars, and Dennis Rodman. If you're a wrestling fan, this is a must-watch. Timestamps: 1:15 - Current WWE 2:21 - John Cena turning Heel 3:35 - Watching Wrestle as a kid 5:23 - Hulk Hogan Signing to WCW 10:52 - Hulk Hogan & Pop Cu…

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From Rough Draft to Ready: Editor Joel Brigham on Revisions That Sell 58:19

2M ago58:19

58:19

Send us a text In this information-packed episode, editor Joel Brigham returns to dive deep into the art of revision, breaking down the essential steps writers must take to polish their manuscripts. From identifying critical story beats to understanding character agency and narrative pacing, Joel offers a masterclass in transforming a draft into a …

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Best Marketing Strategies in Publishing with Sam Fox of HarperCollins | Book Marketing & Community 🎙 52:13

2M ago52:13

52:13

Welcome to another episode of the Creators Talk Podcast! In this conversation, we dive deep with Sam Fox, Senior Director of Content Creation & Strategy at HarperCollins. With a background at Teen Vogue and Condé Nast, Sam brings a unique perspective on storytelling, marketing, and building inclusive book communities. From her journey as a dancer t…

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Drafting Without Fear: Writing Momentum and Mistakes to Avoid, with editor Joel Brigham 54:20

2M ago54:20

54:20

Send us a text Beth and Lisa are joined by editor and author Joel Brigham to discuss the messy, magical process of drafting. Joel shares practical advice to help writers overcome perfectionism and keep their momentum through the challenging early stages of a manuscript. Guest Bio: Joel Brigham is a seasoned developmental editor and founder of Brigh…

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The History of the NBA: Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant & Jerry West (w/ Roland Lazenby) 1:28:51

2M ago1:28:51

1:28:51

In this episode of the Author Talks Podcast, we sit down with legendary sports biographer Roland Lazenby, the bestselling author behind definitive basketball books on Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Jerry West. Roland shares behind-the-scenes stories, family histories, and pivotal basketball moments that shaped the modern NBA, from …

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To Edit or Not to Edit? (An Ask B&L Episode) 33:58

3M ago33:58

33:58

Send us a text Episode Summary: In this engaging Ask B&L episode, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid tackle two of the most commonly asked questions from aspiring authors: what is voice in writing and how do you navigate the editorial process? With personal anecdotes, practical advice, and a whole lot of writerly camaraderie, Beth and Lisa break down co…

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2x Super Bowl Champ Malcolm Jenkins on Owning Your Voice, Entrepreneurship & Life After the NFL 🎙 43:27

3M ago43:27

43:27

2x Super Bowl Champion Malcolm Jenkins joins Bookum Author Talks Podcast to discuss life after the NFL, building generational wealth, and why owning your voice matters now more than ever. In this wide-ranging conversation, Jenkins shares stories about his draft day moment, the pressures of leadership, founding businesses while still playing, and hi…

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ENCORE: Editor Ivan Taurisano talks kidlit and IP 37:27

3M ago37:27

37:27

Send us a text In this encore edition, Beth and Lisa chat with Ivan Taurisano, Associate Editor at Abrams, who specializes in children's literature and intellectual properties. Ivan shares insider tips on creating standout submissions, navigating the acquisition process, and the evolving trends in middle-grade publishing. Guest Bio Ivan Taurisano i…

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How to Sell More Books in 2025 as a Self-Published Author | Tips from Book Strategist Steph Moon 🎙 47:17

3M ago47:17

47:17

In this episode of The Bookum Nook Show, Book marketing strategist Stephanie Moon shares what’s working right now to help authors sell more books. Whether you’re self-published or traditionally published, this episode covers how to drive real sales, build an online presence, land media, and market your book with confidence. If you’ve ever wondered …

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Love, Art & Storytelling in Rome: Brian Selznick on his new novel Run Away With Me 50:51

3M ago50:51

50:51

Send us a text Episode Summary: In this inspiring episode, Beth and Lisa welcome bestselling author and illustrator Brian Selznick to discuss his latest YA novel Run Away With Me. Brian shares how personal history, queer identity, and the haunting beauty of an empty Rome during the pandemic shaped this deeply moving love story. Guest Bio: Brian Sel…

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Writing Scary, Querying Smart: Insider Tips with Agent & Author Carey Blankenship-Kramer 35:57

4M ago35:57

35:57

Send us a text Beth and Lisa sit down with Carey Blankenship-Kramer, literary agent and author of Ghost Scout's Honor, to talk all things publishing—from crafting irresistible query letters to the harsh realities of publishing economics. Carey shares heartfelt insights on the future of middle grade, the evolving horror genre, and what truly makes h…

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Reporting Book News, Trends, Recommendations & Changing Media w/ USA Today’s Clare Mulroy 47:39

4M ago47:39

47:39

In this interview, USA Today's Clare Mulroy talks about the world of book news, trends, recommendations, and the changing media landscape. She discusses her path into book reporting and the future of journalism in the book world, along with her passion for literature and media. Timestamps: 1:04 - Hunger Games 2:02 - Midnight Releases 4:02 - Early R…

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How Good Was Larry Bird Really? Indiana HS Days, Boston Celtics & Magic Johnson | Randy Mills 1:16:28

4M ago1:16:28

1:16:28

How good was Larry Bird really? In this interview with author and historian Randy Mills, we go deep into Larry Bird’s high school days in Indiana, his sudden rise to stardom, his time at Indiana State, and the rivalry that shaped basketball history with Magic Johnson. We also discuss how Bob Knight nearly coached Bird, why Boston was the perfect ci…

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Writing Origin Stories! Do you have one? 39:51

4M ago39:51

39:51

Send us a text 🎙️ Episode Summary: In this special "Ask Beth & Lisa" episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid explore the emotional challenges of the current creative climate and share their personal writing origin stories to inspire struggling writers. With humor, heart, and a dash of wine, they offer a candid look at what f…

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Book Publishing Process + Social Media Marketing | Megan (BooksNblazers) of Penguin Random House 🎙 33:54

4M ago33:54

33:54

Ever wondered how books actually get published—and how to market them in today’s social media world? In this episode, we sit down with Megan (BooksNblazers) of Penguin Random House to break down the book publishing process, content creation, and how authors can grow online. Whether you're an aspiring author, book content creator, or just curious ab…

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Morgan DeBaun Reveals How to Rewrite Your Rules for Lasting Entrepreneurial Success & Wealth 🎙 42:25

4M ago42:25

42:25

In this episode of the Founders Talk Podcast, Morgan DeBaun, CEO of Blavity Inc. AfroTech and author of our April Founders Club Book Pick Rewrite Your Rules, shares powerful insights on entrepreneurship, lasting success, and building wealth. Morgan discusses how to rewrite the rules for success, balancing intensity and joy, the secrets to avoiding …

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If It Feels Not Normal, It’s Probably Not: Ask Beth & Lisa 26:00

5M ago26:00

26:00

Send us a text Episode Summary: In this candid "Ask B&L" episode, Beth and Lisa answer a listener question about agent transparency, diving into the red flags of a rocky publishing relationship. They also unpack book coaching, revising habits, and finding sanity as a writer in uncertain times. Guest Bio: No guest this episode – just your favorite d…

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Will Packer on ‘Who Better Than You?’ Book: Film Financing, Dreaming Big & Healthy Arrogance 32:55

5M ago32:55

32:55

In this exclusive interview, Will Packer, NY Times Bestselling Author of Who Better Than You?, shares invaluable insights on film financing, dreaming big, and developing healthy arrogance for success. As a blockbuster film producer, Will has grossed over $1 billion worldwide at the box office, with 10 movies opening at #1, including: Stomp The Yard…

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Episode 10: Interview with NYT Best Selling Author Susan Verde 35:43

5M ago35:43

35:43

Join us for this exclusive, insightful, and inspiring conversation with NYT Best Selling Author, Susan Verde, for this final episode of Author Talk with L&B. Follow @authortalkwithlandb, @mommymomsbookshelf, and @iambrittanyscott_ for more!By Author Talk with L and B

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Breaking Barriers in Publishing: Michele McAvoy on Small Press Success & Writing Realities 34:33

5M ago34:33

34:33

Send us a text PLEASE NOTE: this episode was orignally meant to drop on March 31st but we moved it up so listeners can take advantage of The Little Press's upcoming pitch party. Listen to the full episode for details. Episode Summary In this episode, Beth and Lisa chat with Michele McAvoy, award-winning children’s book author, publisher, and founde…

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The King of Groove: John Robinson Talks Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, Off the Wall & Iconic Hits 59:47

5M ago59:47

59:47

In this episode, we sit down with the legendary John Robinson, the most recorded drummer in modern music history. Known for his work with musical icons like Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, and Steve Winwood, John gives us an exclusive look into his career, his new book The King of Groove, and the stories behind some of the most iconic hits of all ti…

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Episode 9: Interview with bookstore New Book Joy 15:00

5M ago15:00

15:00

Listen to this delightful interview with Chicago bookstore, New Book Joy, to hear about their story, to learn about what bookstores are looking for when curating their book collections, and to gain other insightful tips for aspiring and current authors. Follow @authortalkwithlandb, @mommymomsbookshelf, and @iambrittanyscott_ for more!…

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How Reading Changed My Life l Jerid P. Woods (@ABlackManReading) on The Power of Books & Truth 1:08:56

5M ago1:08:56

1:08:56

Join us on the Book Creators Talk Podcast as Jerid P. Woods, the force behind A Black Man Reading, shares his journey from devouring Little Golden Books at age 3 to becoming a cultural catalyst for creative resistance. In this raw, unfiltered conversation, he dives into: Early Reading & Moments That Made Him Come Alive: From 50 pages an hour to lif…

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Episode 8: Interview with Embassie Susberry 28:49

5M ago28:49

28:49

Today's episode is a must listen interview with author Embassie Susberry covering everything from her author journey to her incredible insight about the writing and publishing process. Follow @authortalkwithlandb, @mommymomsbookshelf, and @iambrittanyscott_ for more!By Author Talk with L and B

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Cracking the Code: Middle Grade & YA Publishing Secrets with managing editor Meg Gaertner 34:58

6M ago34:58

34:58

Send us a text In this episode of Writers with Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid talk with Meg Gaertner, managing editor of fiction at North Star Editions. Meg shares insights into middle grade and young adult publishing, the acquisitions process, and trends shaping the industry. Guest Bio Meg Gaertner is the managing editor of fiction at Nor…

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What No One Wants to Say About Books – Traci Thomas on Pop Culture & 2025 Trends 40:05

6M ago40:05

40:05

In this candid conversation, Traci Thomas, host of The Stacks podcast, shares her unfiltered thoughts on the literary world, pop culture, and what readers can expect in 2025. From her personal writing philosophy to her favorite book-to-screen adaptations, Traci offers insights that challenge conventional views and spark meaningful discussions. Char…

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Episode 7: Growing Your Brand 13:18

6M ago13:18

13:18

Listen to find out how to grow your brand once your published along with other tips and strategies. Follow @authortalkwithlandb, @mommymomsbookshelf, and @iambrittanyscott_ for more!By Author Talk with L and B

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Episode 6: The Marketing Process 19:06

6M ago19:06

19:06

Take a deep dive into the marketing process in this week's episode with L & B. You will find out how to market your book once it's published along with other tips and personal testimonies. Follow @authortalkwithlandb, @mommymomsbookshelf, and @iambrittanyscott_ for more!By Author Talk with L and B

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Breaking Out of the Writing Rut: Micro Goals, Fresh Eyes & Creative Hacks 27:31

6M ago27:31

27:31

Send us a text In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, the hosts tackle a common writer struggle: getting out of a creative rut. They share personal experiences, actionable strategies, and insights from working with critique partners and beta readers to reignite motivation and improve writing. Key Discussion Points Recognizing a Writing Rut: How to identi…

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Episode 5: The Publishing & Marketing Process 18:40

6M ago18:40

18:40

Join in, and listen to this episode as authors Laura & Brittany discuss and unpack the publishing and marketing process when independently publishing. Follow @authortalkwithlandb, @mommymomsbookshelf, and @iambrittanyscott_ for more!By Author Talk with L and B

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How Writers Get Noticed: Randy Winston on Publishing, Fiction & The Black List 49:05

6M ago49:05

49:05

In this episode, I sit down with Randy Winston, Creative Director of Fiction at The Black List, to discuss the publishing industry, the craft of writing, and how writers can stand out. We dive into the creative process, the role of The Black List in fiction, traditional vs. hybrid publishing, and what truly makes a great fiction story. If you're a …

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Episode 4: The Writing and Illustrating Process 20:52

6M ago20:52

20:52

Take the first step toward unlocking your dreams by tuning in this week's episode as L & B begin to unpack the how-tos with self-publishing, particularly with the writing, illustration, and design process. Follow @authortalkwithlandb, @mommymomsbookshelf, and @iambrittanyscott_ for more!By Author Talk with L and B

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From Query to Publication: Agent Adria Goetz on Perfecting Your Pitch and Navigating the Industry 40:57

6M ago40:57

40:57

Send us a text In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, we welcome Adria Goetz, a Senior Literary Agent at KT Literary, to discuss the dos and don’ts of querying, how to stand out in a crowded submission pile, and navigating industry challenges like editor transitions. Aspiring authors will gain valuable insights into crafting compelling pitches, …

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What History Gets Wrong About Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. | Pulitzer Prize Author Jonathan Eig 🎙 44:04

7M ago44:04

44:04

In this exclusive interview, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jonathan Eig joins us to discuss his groundbreaking biography, King: A Life. We dive deep into the real Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.—his struggles, triumphs, and the misconceptions that history has perpetuated. 📌 Timestamps: 1:04 - MLK Day in 2025 2:34 - Montgomery Bus Boycott 4:03 - MLK Sr.’…

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Episode 3: Interview with Lisa Maggiore 26:20

7M ago26:20

26:20

Listen along to learn more about the traditional publishing process along with other helpful tips and so much more in this compelling interview with author Lisa Maggiore. Follow @authortalkwithlandb, @mommymomsbookshelf, and @iambrittanyscott_ for more!By Author Talk with L and B

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Lupita Aquino (@lupita.reads) on Latine Lit, Community, and Navigating the Bookish World | 🎙 54:56

7M ago54:56

54:56

In this episode of the Book Creators Talk Podcast, we sit down with Lupita Aquino (@lupita.reads), a passionate advocate for Latine literature and vibrant bookish content creator. Known for her work uplifting diverse voices through the #ReadLatineLit Challenge and La Comunidad Reads Book Club, Lupita shares her journey, creative process, and insigh…

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Episode 2: Traditional vs. Self-Publishing 15:32

7M ago15:32

15:32

Interested in becoming an author or learning more about the publishing process? Tune in to hear about some of the differences between traditional and self-publishing to guide your author journey! Follow @authortalkwithlandb, @mommymomsbookshelf, and @iambrittanyscott_ for more!By Author Talk with L and B

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Resilience, Rejections, and Rediscovering Joy in Writing 24:15

7M ago24:15

24:15

Send us a text In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, the hosts tackle listener questions about navigating the challenges of writing and publishing, including understanding agent rejections and crafting strong hooks. They also discuss personal writing goals and the importance of building supportive writer communities. Key Discussion Points New Year's Wri…

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Episode 1: Sharing Our Story 13:00

7M ago13:00

13:00

Meet L&B! Join Laura & Brittany as they share their stories and path to becoming children's book authors. Follow @authortalkwithlandb, @mommymomsbookshelf, and @iambrittanyscott_ for more!By Author Talk with L and B

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Cracking the Publishing Code: Expert Tips from Editor Ivan Taurisano 36:51

7M ago36:51

36:51

Send us a text **Please Note: Guest Adria Gaetz episode will drop on February 3rd, not January 20th.** In the premier episode of Season 4, Beth and Lisa chat with Ivan Taurisano, Associate Editor at Abrams, who specializes in children's literature and intellectual properties. Ivan shares insider tips on creating standout submissions, navigating the…

Author Talk With L And B Podcasts