Best Connor Fleming Podcasts (2025)

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Award-Winning Author Jon Agee Discusses George and Lenny Are Always Together and the Art of Children's Book Creation 44:51

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12d ago44:51

44:51

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews award-winning author-illustrator Jon Agee about his latest picture book George and Lenny Are Always Together. They discuss Agee's creative process, his evolution from writing about middle-aged protagonists to child characters, and how he infuses gentle humor and nuanced …

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When You Find a Hope: How Allie Millington Turned Rejection into Art 31:47

2M ago31:47

31:47

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews author Allie Millington about her picture book When You Find a Hope. They discuss Millington's unique brain drain morning practice, her long journey to publication, and how her own experiences with rejection and perseverance directly inspired this heartfelt story about h…

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Imagining Yoko Ono: Lisa Tolin on Bringing a Misunderstood Artist to Young Readers 40:35

3M ago40:35

40:35

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews author Lisa Tolin about her picture book biography Can You Imagine?: The Art and Life of Yoko Ono. They discuss Tolin's creative process, her admiration for Yoko Ono's resilience and artistry, and how she approached introducing conceptual art to young readers. Transcript…

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Rebellion, Revolution, and Writing: Laurie Halse Anderson on Historical Fiction 58:14

3M ago58:14

58:14

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews acclaimed author Laurie Halse Anderson about her writing process, experiences with young readers, and her latest book, Rebellion 1776. They discuss the importance of historical fiction in helping readers understand contemporary issues, and how Anderson crafts engaging st…

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Finding Your Beat: Dusti Bowling on Connor's Journey with Tourette's in 'The Beat I Drum' 57:17

3M ago57:17

57:17

In this engaging episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, award-winning author Dusti Bowling shares her journey from a struggling reader to acclaimed writer, revealing how these experiences shape her characters. She discusses her latest novel, The Beat I Drum, which follows Connor Bradley—a teen with Tourette syndrome—drawing on her family's persona…

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Coda: Shangri-Los Angeles 5:21

4M ago5:21

5:21

A heartfelt thank you, a kickass update, and one more tune for the road. It's been real, folks. You can hear Shangri-Los Angeles anywhere music is streaming. love, GSG & Team In Media Res Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesBy Good Story Guild

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Beauty, Gardening, and Rhyme: A Conversation with Janna Matthies 34:53

4M ago34:53

34:53

Join us for a delightful conversation with author and music teacher Janna Matthies as she shares the inspiration behind her new picture book, Over in the Garden. Discover how Janna's musical background, love of nature, and teaching experience beautifully converge in this counting book that celebrates community gardening. From adapting the folk song…

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Act V 34:36

4M ago34:36

34:36

Was it worth it? The episode was written by Matty Pipes and directed by Rachel Music Starring Kyle Prue as Xander Nicole Kang as Kat Christopher Gebauer as Coen Special Guest Neill Fleming as Jackson Eli Featuring Raechel Wong as Nicky Carmichael Jacquelyn Landgraf as Hillary Steppard Mather Zickel as Chuck Flynn John Ales as David Keller Anthony M…

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Entr'acte IV: Take Cover 6:01

4M ago6:01

6:01

#4. Hobart remembers his Nana. Sponsored by Warner Brothers Entertainment. James Urbaniak as Hobart Frunk Written by Rachel Music and Maximilian Clark Music by Michelle Sudduth Recorded, Mixed, and Mastered by Evan Chambers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesBy Good Story Guild

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Understanding Home in a Changing World: A Conversation with Matt de la Peña and Loren Long 57:31

4M ago57:31

57:31

In this heartwarming episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, Bianca Schulze welcomes Newbery Medal-winning author Matt de la Peña and bestselling illustrator Loren Long to discuss their new collaboration, Home. Building on the success of their #1 New York Times bestseller Love, the creators share intimate memories of their own childhoods and explor…

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Act IV 37:08

4M ago37:08

37:08

What have you done to deserve this? The episode was written by Chris Murphy and directed by Rachel Music Starring Kyle Prue as Xander Nicole Kang as Kat Christopher Gebauer as Coen Special Guest Mather Zickel as Chuck Flynn Featuring Alyssa Mann as Polly Shaw Caitlyn Carleton as Maddie Betty Raechel Wong as the Bad Robot Receptionist Anthony Misian…

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Entr'acte III: Packing Heat 5:26

4M ago5:26

5:26

#11. Hobart needs a drink. Sponsored by Warner Brothers Entertainment. James Urbaniak as Hobart Frunk Written by Rachel Music and Maximilian Clark Music by Michelle Sudduth Recorded, Mixed, and Mastered by Evan Chambers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesBy Good Story Guild

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Unraveling Mysteries with Candace Fleming: The Loch Ness Monster, Critical Thinking, and the Magic of Nonfiction for Kids 41:23

4M ago41:23

41:23

In this engaging conversation, Bianca Schulze interviews Candace Fleming about her journey as a nonfiction writer, the allure of nonfiction for young readers, and her latest book on the Loch Ness Monster, Is It Real? The Loch Ness Monster. They discuss the importance of curiosity, critical thinking, and the balance between entertainment and educati…

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Act III 31:33

4M ago31:33

31:33

Who hurt you? The episode was written by Gesley Alexis and directed by Rachel Music Starring Kyle Prue as Xander Nicole Kang as Kat Christopher Gebauer as Coen Special Guest Anthony Misiano as Whitty Featuring Caitlyn Carleton as Dina John Ales as David Keller And James Urbaniak as Hobart Frunk Sound Design by Adam Joseph Monaghan Music composed an…

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Entr'acte II: My Heart Wants What it Wants 7:20

5M ago7:20

7:20

#17. Hobart begins his research. Sponsored by Warner Brothers Entertainment. James Urbaniak as Hobart Frunk Written by Rachel Music and Maximilian Clark Music by Michelle Sudduth Recorded, Mixed, and Mastered by Evan Chambers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesBy Good Story Guild

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Act II 43:00

5M ago43:00

43:00

When did it all start to unravel? The episode was written by Connor Pritchard and directed by Rachel Music Starring Kyle Prue as Xander Nicole Kang as Kat Christopher Gebauer as Coen Special Guest Jacquelyn Landgraf as Dr. Tabitha Parker Featuring Neill Fleming as Jackson Eli And James Urbaniak as Hobart Frunk Sound Design by Adam Joseph Monaghan M…

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Entr'acte I: Blood in the Water 6:26

5M ago6:26

6:26

#22. Hobart Frunk gets a new assignment: counting down the top themes from the Jack Stellar universe. Sponsored by Warner Brothers Entertainment. James Urbaniak as Hobart Frunk Written by Rachel Music and Maximilian Clark Music by Michelle Sudduth Recorded, Mixed, and Mastered by Evan Chambers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/ad…

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Megan E. Freeman: From 'Alone' to 'Away' 53:33

5M ago53:33

53:33

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, Megan E. Freeman takes us on a journey through her creative process and the powerful stories behind her novels ALONE and AWAY. From discovering swimming as an unexpected source of inspiration to transforming ALONE from prose to verse, Megan shares the evolution of her craft and her deep connection to …

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Act I 31:35

5M ago31:35

31:35

Where were you when you got the call that changed everything? The episode was written by Anna Nuria Francino and directed by Rachel Music Starring Kyle Prue as Xander Nicole Kang as Kat Christopher Gebauer as Coen Special Guest John Ales as David Keller Featuring Nick Reinhardt as the Narrator Neill Fleming as Mike And James Urbaniak as Hobart Frun…

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In Media Res - Trailer 1:27

5M ago1:27

1:27

Award-winning audio house Good Story Guild takes on the Hollywood satire in their latest limited series, premiering February 18th, 2025. In Media Res is a whip-smart 5-part drama set in the City of Angels starring Kyle Prue and Nicole Kang, featuring John Ales, Mather Zickel, James Urbaniak and a dynamite ensemble cast. Directed by Rachel Music (Le…

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Behind the Scenes of Graphic Novels with John Patrick Green 53:05

5M ago53:05

53:05

In this episode of the Growing Readers podcast, John Patrick Green shares insights into his creative process, journey from artist to bestselling graphic novelist, and the collaborative nature of graphic novel creation. He discusses how his love for storytelling and humor drives his work, aiming to make kids laugh while also engaging adult readers w…

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Creating Inclusive Literature for Kids with Jolene Gutiérrez, Author of Mamiachi and Me 40:46

6M ago40:46

40:46

Join teacher-librarian and children's book author Jolene Gutiérrez as she discusses collaborating with her son Dakota on their new picture book Mamiachi and Me, a joyful celebration of mariachi music and family tradition. Learn how a misheard word sparked a story about an all-female mariachi band and a young girl finding the courage to perform. Jol…

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Celebrating 10 Years of The Princess in Black: A Conversation with Shannon Hale, Dean Hale, and LeUyen Pham 58:30

7M ago58:30

58:30

Join creators Shannon Hale and Dean Hale and illustrator LeUyen Pham as they celebrate 10 years of The Princess in Black series. Discover how a child's simple observation that "princesses don't wear black" inspired a revolutionary series that bridges early readers to chapter books. The trio shares behind-the-scenes stories of their creative process…

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Meredith Seacrest Leach on 'The Make Believers': Fostering Imagination Through Storytelling and Sibling Collaboration 23:33

8M ago23:33

23:33

Join us as Meredith Seacrest Leach discusses her debut picture book "The Make Believers," co-written with her brother Ryan Seacrest. In this heartwarming conversation, Meredith shares how her daughter's boundless imagination and her work with the Ryan Seacrest Foundation inspired this celebration of creative play. She reveals how the book's message…

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Mac Barnett on Flipping Santa's Story: Santa's First Christmas 32:12

8M ago32:12

32:12

Award-winning children's author Mac Barnett joins us to discuss his heartwarming new picture book Santa's First Christmas, beautifully illustrated by Sydney Smith. In this fresh take on holiday storytelling, Santa experiences the magic of Christmas Day for the very first time, thanks to his thoughtful elves. Mac shares insights into the creative pr…

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Sophie and the Swans: Holly Peppe on Kindness, Bullying, and the Power of Children's Literature 33:46

9M ago33:46

33:46

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with author Holly Peppe to discuss her children's book, Sophie and the Swans. Peppe shares her experiences as a teacher and writer, her insights on addressing bullying, and her reflections on the power of kindness in children's literature. Listeners will gain insight into…

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Dancing Through Darkness: Dr. Edith Eger's Journey from Auschwitz to Inspiration 35:27

9M ago35:27

35:27

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with Holocaust survivor and renowned psychologist Dr. Edith Eger to discuss her young adult memoir, The Ballerina of Auschwitz. Dr. Eger, joined by her grandson Jordan Engle, shares her experiences, insights, and reflections on survival, healing, and the power of choice, …

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Doors to Other Worlds: Kate DiCamillo Explores Connection Through Storytelling 57:10

10M ago57:10

57:10

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with beloved author Kate DiCamillo to discuss her latest works, including the early reader trilogy beginning with Orris and Timble: The Beginning and the second book in The Norendy Tales, The Hotel Balzaar. Kate shares her creative process, inspirations, and reflections o…

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Louder Than Hunger: John Schu on Writing, Healing, and Hope 1:02:20

10M ago1:02:20

1:02:20

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with acclaimed author John Schu to discuss his powerful novel in verse, Louder Than Hunger. John shares his deeply personal journey of transforming his own experiences with anorexia nervosa, depression, and anxiety into Jake's story, offering insight into the creative pro…

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Always Look for Wonder: Loren Long on Creativity and The Yellow Bus 1:01:56

11M ago1:01:56

1:01:56

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with award-winning children's author and illustrator Loren Long to discuss his latest book, The Yellow Bus. Loren shares his unique approach to crafting this touching story, including his inspiration from a real abandoned bus, his process of creating a 3D model for illust…

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Mining for the Heart of History: Beth Anderson on Thomas Jefferson, Critical Thinking, and Crafting Engaging Nonfiction 49:54

11M ago49:54

49:54

In this episode of The Growing Readers podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with award-winning children's author Beth Anderson to discuss her latest book, Thomas Jefferson's Battle for Science: Bias, Truth, and a Mighty Moose. Beth shares her unique approach to crafting engaging nonfiction, including her process of "mining for the heart of the st…

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Saturday Magic: Celebrating Ancestral Wisdom and Black Spirituality in Children's Literature with Nyasha Williams and Kenda Bell-Spruill 1:10:48

1y ago1:10:48

1:10:48

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Nyasha Williams and Kenda Bell-Spruill, co-authors of Saturday Magic: A Hoodoo Story (Running Press Kids). This mother-in-love and daughter-in-love duo discuss their collaboration on this groundbreaking picture book that introduces young readers to African diasporic spiritual practices and ancestral con…

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Finding Beauty in Imperfection: Matt de la Peña on 'The Perfect Place 38:39

1y ago38:39

38:39

Award-winning author Matt de la Peña discusses his new picture book, The Perfect Place, exploring themes of class, self-acceptance, and the meaning of home. Matt shares personal inspirations, reads from the book, and reflects on how the story resonates with readers of all ages. Join us for an insightful conversation about finding beauty in imperfec…

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Cultivating Culinary Curiosity: Priya Krishna on Raising Kids Who Love Global Flavors 34:36

1y ago34:36

34:36

Join us for a flavorful conversation with New York Times food reporter Priya Krishna as she dishes on her new cookbook, Priya's Kitchen Adventures: A Cookbook for Kids. Discover how Priya's globe-trotting childhood inspired a passion for diverse cuisines, and learn why exposing children to a world of flavors is about more than just good eating. Fro…

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Soaring Imaginations: Exploring the Skyriders Series with Polly Holyoke 57:24

1y ago57:24

57:24

In this inspiring episode, award-winning children's author Polly Holyoke joins us to discuss her enchanting middle-grade fantasy series, Skyriders. Polly shares her insights on the power of storytelling to ignite imaginations and empower young readers to believe in their ability to make a difference. From her creative process in building immersive …

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Art, Science, and the Sea: Jeanne Walker Harvey On Else Bostelmann's Extraordinary Life 43:40

1y ago43:40

43:40

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze and author Jeanne Walker Harvey dive into the inspiring story of Else Bostelmann, the artist who courageously painted the wonders of the deep sea in the 1930s. Harvey shares insights from her new picture book biography Elsae B. In the Sea: The Woman Who Painted the Wonders of the D…

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Talking to Kids About Their Bodies: A Conversation with Sex Educator and Author Dorian Solot 34:01

1y ago34:01

34:01

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze and sexuality educator Dorian Solot discuss Solot's new Learning About Bodies children's books. Solot shares insights on providing kids with accurate, age-appropriate information about their bodies and the challenges of creating sensitive content. The books cover topics like proper…

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The Power of Pets, Place, and Personal Experience: Lauren Castillo on the Inspirations Behind 'Just Like Millie' 49:08

1y ago49:08

49:08

In this heartfelt episode, award-winning author and illustrator Lauren Castillo shares the personal experiences and meaningful inspirations behind her latest picture book, Just Like Millie. Castillo opens up about how her own childhood, hometown, and beloved pets influenced the story of a shy young girl who finds courage and connection through her …

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Growing Readers' Hearts: An Interview with Dan Gemeinhart on Coyote Lost and Found 52:17

1+ y ago52:17

52:17

In this insightful interview, acclaimed middle-grade author Dan Gemeinhart discusses his highly anticipated standalone companion novel Coyote Lost and Found, the follow-up to his beloved bestseller The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise. Gemeinhart reflects on the evolution of the complex relationship between his resilient protagonist Coyote and …

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Facing Fears Together with Alysson Foti Bourque and Alycat and the Sunday Scaries 32:26

1+ y ago32:26

32:26

In this episode, we welcome special guest Alysson Foti Borque, author of the beloved Alycat series. Alysson shares insights into the creation of her heartwarming children's books and the inspiration behind her characters. Join Bianca and Alysson as they delve into the latest addition to the series, Alycat and the Sunday Scaries, exploring themes of…

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Weaving Threads of Belonging: Exploring Identity in Summer at Squee with Andrea Wang 43:53

1+ y ago43:53

43:53

In this engaging conversation, Andrea Wang shares insights into her latest book, Summer at Squee, where she explores themes of community, identity, and inclusivity. Delve into the heart of Squee Camp, a vibrant setting where Phoenny Fang navigates friendships, cultural experiences, and her own biases. Discover the inspirations behind Andrea's story…

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Poetry Insights from Jane Yolen on Crafting Words, Wisdom, and Wonder 39:12

1+ y ago39:12

39:12

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze welcomes the legendary author, poet, and children's book writer Jane Yolen. From discussing Yolen's daily routine of writing poetry to exploring her deep connection to literature and storytelling, this conversation is a journey into the heart and soul of a prolific writer. Yolen sh…

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Exploring Love and Light in 'Ferris' with Kate DiCamillo 49:58

1+ y ago49:58

49:58

Join us for a captivating exploration of Kate DiCamillo's latest literary masterpiece, Ferris. Prepare to be swept away by a heartwarming love story between a granddaughter and her grandmother, where love in all its forms intertwines with the search for light in the darkest of times. Discover how music serves as a beacon of hope in this evocative t…

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Breaking Through Writer's Block: A Journey with Barbara Dee into 'Unstuck' 37:33

1+ y ago37:33

37:33

In this episode, sit down with critically acclaimed author Barbara Dee to delve into her latest middle-grade novel, Unstuck. Listeners are treated to a sneak peek into this novel that follows protagonist Lyla as she grapples with anxiety, writer's block, and the pressures of meeting a writing contest deadline while trying to rescue her older sister…

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Exploring Environmentalism in the Picture Book Saving the Sun by Emma Pearl 27:08

1+ y ago27:08

27:08

In this engaging podcast episode, Emma Pearl delves into the influence of children's literature and environmentalism in her work while sharing her personal journey inspired by her great uncle Roald Dahl. Highlighting the importance of children's books in fostering imagination and empathy, Emma discusses her picture books Mending the Moon and Saving…

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Mary Pope Osborne and Will Osborne on the Magic Tree House Theatrical Productions 44:53

1+ y ago44:53

44:53

Join us as we delve into the enchanting world of Magic Tree House with bestselling children's author Mary Pope Osborne and her husband, playwright Will Osborne. In this episode, we explore the journey of transforming the beloved book series into captivating stage musicals, igniting a passion for literacy and fostering growth in children. Transcript…

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Jamie Lee Curtis on Just One More Sleep, Anticipation, and Writing Books for Kids 31:31

1+ y ago31:31

31:31

Dive into topics of anticipation and family traditions with Jamie Lee Curtis as she discusses her latest picture book for kids, Just One More Sleep: Good Things Come to Those Who Wait ... and Wait ... and Wait.In this interview, Curtis shares the delightful inspiration behind the story, revealing the magic that happens when a chance encounter with …

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Bianca with Jeff Kinney on Diary of a Wimpy Kid 38:56

1+ y ago38:56

38:56

Dive into the uproarious world of Jeff Kinney, the creative force behind the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, in this upbeat podcast episode! Kinney spills the beans on how his bestselling idea sprouted from a simple journal meant to keep him on the work grind. With a staggering 275 million copies sold worldwide, the series has become a literary sensat…

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Bianca with Richard Wagner on Needles, the Forgotten Christmas Tree 28:09

1+ y ago28:09

28:09

This episode is presented in partnership with Richard Wagner, and we embark on a delightful journey behind the scenes of a heartwarming picture book, Needles, the Forgotten Christmas Tree. Richard, the creative mind who brought this enchanting story to life, unravels the process of crafting this magical narrative, exploring the themes of perseveran…

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Bianca with Chris Wieland on The Body on the Beach: A Kat Dylan Mystery 56:16

1+ y ago56:16

56:16

This episode is presented in partnership with The Smart Aleck Press. Bianca is joined by the talented mystery writer Chris Wieland, the creative force behind the Kat Dylan Mysteries; including The Body on the Beach. Chris is known for crafting narratives that revolve around a strong girl protagonist, Kat Dylan. In this discussion, he delves into th…