Best Lisa Schmid Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 300! 48:20

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4d ago48:20

48:20

This week, in celebration of Episode 300, Danièle answers your questions on everything from Hastings to hose, with a couple of surprises along the way. You can support this podcast on Patreon - go to https://www.patreon.com/medievalistsBy Medievalists.net

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

8d 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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Vikings Behaving Reasonably with Robert Lively 43:48

11d ago43:48

43:48

If you asked the average person how Vikings solved their problems, they probably wouldn’t say through lawyers. And yet, early Scandinavian people were sticklers for due process. This week, Danièle speaks with Robert Lively about how a person became a Viking lawyer, what the process was for solving disputes, and how fixing bad behaviour worked in th…

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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

14d 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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Elephants and Ivory with John Beusterien 49:58

19d ago49:58

49:58

Elephants were known throughout most of the medieval world, even if most people had never encountered one, themselves. In bestiaries, elephants are praised for their long memories, intelligence, and monogamy. And, of course, their ivory. This week, Danièle speaks with John Beusterien about elephants and ivory in medieval China and Spain, including …

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

22d 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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Royal Grief in Medieval Iberia with Nuria Silleras-Fernandez 56:45

25d ago56:45

56:45

For three medieval Iberian queens, grief - and the way they expressed it - had immense and far-reaching consequences. This week, Danièle speaks with Núria Silleras-Fernández about what grief and widowhood were "supposed" to look like, how grief and madness were thought to be intertwined with love, and how the grieving women in the famous Isabella t…

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Mysterious Manuscripts with Garry Shaw 55:07

1M ago55:07

55:07

There are several famous examples of mysterious medieval writing, including the so-far unbreakable Voynich Manuscript. So, what secrets were medieval people trying to hide? And why? This week, Danièle speaks with Garry Shaw about who was encrypting their manuscripts, the codes they used, and the centuries of attempts to crack the Voynich Manuscript…

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

1M 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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Johannes Gutenberg with Eric White 52:06

1M ago52:06

52:06

There are a lot of gamechanging inventions that shifted the trajectory of the Middle Ages, but one machine managed to hit at just the right time and place to create a massive enterprise in medieval Europe, with consequences that touched the entire globe: Gutenberg's printing press. This week, Danièle speaks with Eric White about Johannes Gutenberg’…

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Inventing the Renaissance with Ada Palmer 55:55

2M ago55:55

55:55

Given that the term literally means “rebirth”, the Renaissance throws some not-so-subtle shade on the period that comes before it. So, where did the idea of the Renaissance actually come from? And was it truly a golden age? This week, Danièle speaks with Ada Palmer about Petrarch, Machiavelli, atheism, and how we should look at the period formerly …

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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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Saint Thomas Becket with Michael Staunton 57:16

2M ago57:16

57:16

It's one of the most notorious political assassinations in history: the murder of the Archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Becket. The story of two friends who became bitter enemies in a struggle between church and state that drew in some of the most powerful people from all over medieval Europe. So, how did a pretty ordinary kid from London end up as …

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Medieval Infancy with Julie Singer 47:42

2M ago47:42

47:42

One of the most celebrated moments in childhood is when a person utters their very first words, stepping over a brand new threshold of communication. And from that moment on, all bets are off. This week, Danièle speaks with Julie Singer about what medieval people thought about infancy in general, how literary children could be vehicles for truth an…

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

2M 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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Prester John with Chris Taylor 43:52

2M ago43:52

43:52

A mysterious figure ruling at the fringes of the known world, Prester John might be the most famous person you've never heard of. Like a medieval Carmen Sandiego, Prester John was a man people searched the globe for, from Ethiopia, to Tibet, to the New World, never quite catching up to him in the end. So, who was Prester John and why were medieval …

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El Cid with Nora Berend 49:39

2M ago49:39

49:39

In the centuries since his death, the famous El Cid has been the star of plays, romances, feature films, and even propaganda campaigns. But how does history compare to the hype? This week, Danièle speaks with Nora Berend about the real Rodrigo Díaz, the astonishing way his legend grew and changed over time, and how El Cid is still being used as a p…

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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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Royal Women of Sweden with Caroline Wilhelmsson 48:30

3M ago48:30

48:30

To get a fuller picture of medieval queenship, it's time to head to the heart of Scandinavia to learn about the lives of the lesser-known medieval women who found themselves - intentionally or unintentionally - ruling a kingdom. This week, Danièle speaks with Caroline Wilhelmsson about the royal women of Sweden, how they became queens, and how they…

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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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Frederick Barbarossa with Graham Loud 54:28

3M ago54:28

54:28

When we look back to medieval Europe, there are a handful legendary figures who stand out above the rest. Richard the Lionheart. Charlemagne. El Cid. And Frederick Barbarossa. A powerful emperor, focused crusader, and stubborn supporter in the middle of a papal schism, Barbarossa certainly made waves in the twelfth century, and left a lasting impre…

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

3M 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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The Rise of Henry Tudor with Nathen Amin 1:03:07

3M ago1:03:07

1:03:07

Though he’s remembered as the man who united the two royal houses of England, Henry Tudor was more than just the red rose of Lancaster: he was also the red dragon of Wales. This week, Danièle speaks with Nathen Amin about Henry Tudor's Welsh ancestry, how generations of royals and rebels shaped him, and how he managed to claim the English throne de…

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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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Medieval Hospitals with Sarah Loose Guerrero 48:12

4M ago48:12

48:12

When we think about the joys of modernity, perhaps one of the images that comes to mind is hospitals. But, believe it or not, hospitals were also a fundamental part of the medieval world. Catering to the sick, the poor, and the needy, hospitals were institutions many medieval people could rely on in their most desperate moments. This week, Danièle …

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The Medieval Writings of Jean Bodel with Lynn Ramey 44:15

4M ago44:15

44:15

When it comes to influential writers of the Middle Ages, there are big names that are probably familiar to a lot of us. But who was it who influenced them? It’s time to get to the deep cut of medieval literature, and look at a writer whose worked crossed genres from epic, to drama, to heartfelt notes, to raunchy humour. This week, Danièle speaks wi…

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

4M 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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Medieval Africa with Luke Pepera 41:52

4M ago41:52

41:52

Although it’s the cradle of our species, and a land as rich in culture as it is legendarily rich in resources, retellings of African history often place their focus heavily on the transatlantic slave trade. While this is valuable, too narrow a focus can make it easy to lose sight of how incredibly powerful, interconnected, and respected African peo…

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Ladies-in-Waiting with Caroline Dunn 49:35

4M ago49:35

49:35

Although they’re often presented as a sort of living, breathing set decoration, the women at aristocratic courts in the Middle Ages served many different functions, from the practical to the ceremonial. Educated and influential, these women served as ambassadors not only of their gender, but often of their families, and places of origin, as well. S…

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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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Global Ships with Amanda Respess 44:43

5M ago44:43

44:43

When it comes to intercontinental trade in the Middle Ages, the Silk Road seems to get all the love. But the movement of people and goods between kingdoms and continents was made possible in large part by water. This week, Danièle speaks with Amanda Respess about ships and shipbuilding in the medieval world, what we know about early global trade ro…

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Buddhist Poet-Monks in Medieval China with Thomas J. Mazanec 44:55

5M ago44:55

44:55

Last week was all about Christian monks, but naturally, there were a whole lot of monks in different traditions across the medieval world. And some of them were even poets. This week, Danièle speaks with Thomas J. Mazanec about the Buddhist poet-monks of medieval China, why they chose to write poetry, and why their art was so controversial. You can…

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

5M 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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How to Live Like a Monk in Stressful Times 31:46

5M ago31:46

31:46

It's safe to say that this moment in history is proving to be a stressful one, leaving many of us feeling anxious and unsettled. This week, Danièle revisits some of the science-backed tools and strategies medieval monks used to help them stay mentally healthy in tough times. Check out Danièle's book How to Live Like a Monk: Medieval Wisdom for Mode…

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Henry III with David Carpenter 1:06:42

5M ago1:06:42

1:06:42

Although he’s one of the longest-reigning monarchs in English history, he tends to be largely forgotten when it comes to top ten lists. He’s not even in the top three most popular Henrys. Sandwiched between his father, Bad King John, and his son, the “great and terrible” Edward I, Henry III was a pious, peaceful, family man – for better and for wor…

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

5M 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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Sexy Medieval Songs with Elizabeth Eva Leach 46:08

6M ago46:08

46:08

It's almost Valentine's Day, which means that sexy playlists are being created all over the world to help people communicate their steamiest and most heartfelt emotions - just like they did in the Middle Ages. This week, Danièle speaks with Elizabeth Eva Leach about sexy medieval songs, who was singing them, and how they served as inspiration in th…

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Muslims in the Kingdom of Jerusalem with Ann Zimo 43:59

6M ago43:59

43:59

After the Christian conquest of Jerusalem in 1099, scholarship tends to focus on the Muslim populations outside of the newly established crusader kingdoms. But what happened to the Muslim people who remained within? How did they interact with the new culture and laws imposed upon them? And how much of a dealbreaker was a person’s religion in real l…

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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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Medieval Iceland with Sverrir Jakobsson 48:35

6M ago48:35

48:35

It’s a storied island with a rich saga tradition. A land of ice and fire. But rarely do we hear of how Iceland went from being a stouthearted farming settlement to one of the most respected nations on Earth. This week, Danièle speaks with Sverrir Jakobsson about what life in Iceland was like in the early Middle Ages, how it became linked to the kin…

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Dowager Queens of Korea with Alban Schmid 46:38

6M ago46:38

46:38

Though they're often overlooked, the dowager queens of Korea were the one of the most powerful legitimizing forces behind the throne. This week, Danièle speaks with Alban Schmid about how Korea was ruled in the late Middle Ages, its relationship to Ming China, and the power wielded by the women at the top. You can support The Medieval Podcast on Pa…

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

6M 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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Medieval Eastern Europe with Florin Curta 45:05

6M ago45:05

45:05

If you browse the shelves of your local bookstore, it may seem like Eastern Europe basically didn’t exist until the Soviet Union. Fortunately, Medieval Studies is slowly widening the lens to give us a bigger and better picture of what went on beyond the invisible borders of west versus east. This week, Danièle speaks with Florin Curta about why it’…

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Early English Queens with Matthew Firth 49:09

7M ago49:09

49:09

Most of us could probably come up with a few names of the kings who ruled in England in the centuries before the Norman Conquest, but the queens? Maybe not. We know they existed, but it can be hard to figure out much else about them – or whether later medieval notions of what queenship actually is even fit. This week, Danièle speaks with Matthew Fi…

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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…

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Fixing the Liturgy with CJ Jones 44:18

7M ago44:18

44:18

There’s a pretty common myth that medieval women had no agency in their lives; that they were quiet and subservient, and accepted the status quo without thinking too hard about it. The reality, of course, was much different - even for those with the strictest rules: nuns. This week, Danièle speaks with CJ Jones about Dominican nuns, their theologic…

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2024: The Medieval Year in Review 40:18

7M ago40:18

40:18

2024 has been another wild ride in politics and medieval studies. This week, continuing tradition, Danièle speaks with Peter Konieczny from Medievalists.net about what’s been happening in the world and in the field this year. You can support this podcast on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/medievalists…

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Encore Episode: Agent Kaitlyn Sanchez Tells You What You Need to Know 33:33

7M ago33:33

33:33

Send us a text Episode Summary: Beth and Lisa chat with Kaitlyn Sanchez, literary agent at Bradford Literary and co-creator of kidlit contests, about navigating the publishing industry. Kaitlyn shares actionable insights for aspiring authors on trends, querying agents, and creating standout manuscripts. Guest Bio: Kaitlyn Sanchez is a literary agen…

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In Defense of Women with Margaret L. King 49:51

7M ago49:51

49:51

One of the favourite pastimes of certain thinkers throughout history has been to demonstrate the supposed inferiority of women, something both modern people and people of the past have resisted with spicy arguments of their own. These days, we tend to use science and statistics to help us lend weight to our positions. But what did people lean on in…

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Best Medieval Books of 2024 54:21

8M ago54:21

54:21

Medieval Studies has no shortage of amazing books coming out each year, but which ones are the best of the best? This week, Danièle continues the annual tradition of listing her top five book recommendations of 2024 alongside those of Peter Konieczny, editor of Medievalists.net. This year's list is: Beards and Baldness in the Middle Ages, translate…