Best Mata Creative Podcasts (2026)

1
Episode 55: Kate McKean, Author & Literary Agent 1:05:22

Play Pause

2M ago1:05:22

1:05:22

How do you set realistic expectations in publishing? If a book doesn’t sell, how do you cope with rejection? Literary agent and author Kate McKean chats about her latest book Write Through It! She also shares tips for honing your writer’s intuition, pitching your book, and what queries stand out in the slush pile. Kate McKean Website: https://www.k…

1
Episode 54: Marisa Churchill, Author & Chef 45:11

3M ago45:11

45:11

From Top Chef to magical cooking school: Food Network personality and chef Marisa Churchill chats about her upcoming YA novel, Secrets, Spells, and Chocolate! Find out how she pivoted from cookbook to novel writing inspired by her years of culinary experience. Plus, tips on book marketing, fantasy world-building, and school visits. Want to win some…

1
Episode 53: Alee Anderson & Alice Sullivan, Ghostwriters 58:32

3M ago58:32

58:32

Alee Anderson and Alice Sullivan are here to celebrate the release of their new book, The Definitive Guide to Ghostwriting! This highly intensive process often requires 300-500 hours of work per book, including extensive interviews and research. Learn the secrets to building a ghostwriting career, marketing to develop a strong client base, and tran…

1
Episode 52: Brent Taylor, Literary Agent 1:00:37

4M ago1:00:37

1:00:37

Brent Taylor started at Triada US as an 18-year-old intern and has since built a successful career representing children's and adult fiction. Hear his thoughts on what’s booming in the market, what will be hot next year, the rise of romance, tips for querying authors, hybrid publishing and more! Brent Taylor Website: https://www.btaylorbooks.com/ T…

1
Episode 51: Paul Coccia, YA Author 1:01:02

5M ago1:01:02

1:01:02

Author Paul Coccia joins the podcast to chat about Recommended Reading, his YA book developed in partnership with Bittersweet Books! Learn his tricks for character development and interiority, why you should try throwing out your first draft, and how he pulls inspiration from lit theory. We also cover plans for the zombie apocalypse, how true crime…

1
Writing as a Journey of Self-Discovery 1:00:40

5M ago1:00:40

1:00:40

In this episode of Wellspringwords: The Podcast, Nkem reflects on wisdom and questions from the Wellspringwords® community on the theme of “the writing journey”. What does it mean to live a writer’s life? This episode touches on cultivating intimacy with the craft of writing through facing self-doubt with courage, a holistic view of the editing pro…

1
Episode 50: Jessica Faust, BookEnds Literary Agency President 55:20

6M ago55:20

55:20

Jessica Faust, President of BookEnds Literary Agency, details her 26-year career as a literary agent, growing the company from a small boutique firm to a large agency representing fiction and nonfiction for adult and children's markets. Listen in as she shares insights on current publishing trends, including the resurgence of romance, the reimagini…

1
Empowering Our Inner Storyteller: A Conversation on Immigration, Creative Discipline, and Emotional Healing with Oriana Mata 57:39

6M ago57:39

57:39

In this episode of Wellspringwords: The Podcast, Nkem speaks with friend, wedding videographer, and sound producer Oriana Mata on the journey of “self-creation” through conscious storytelling. This conversation is on the personal and intimate work of self-evolution through living our creative desires, choosing our lives, and reconciling the past wi…

1
Episode 49: Gloria Chao, Author & Screenwriter 58:48

7M ago58:48

58:48

Author Gloria Chao guides us through her unique journey from dentistry to writing! We also chat about her upcoming adult debut, The Ex-Girlfriend Murder Club. Listen to our conversation for fun insights on puzzles, coming-of-age YA stories, and learning there’s no “right” way to write. Gloria Chao Website: https://gloriachao.wordpress.com/ Social: …

1
Returning to the Mystery: A Conversation on Writing, Mysticism and Creative Evolution with Tania Hart 49:21

7M ago49:21

49:21

In this episode of Wellspringwords: The Podcast, Nkem speaks with Mystic and Writer Tania Hart on the journey of remembering who we are as true creative beings. The conversation weaves through cycles of creativity; the importance of death in the creative cycle; surrendering back into the body; and mysticism, self-acceptance, and self-sovereignty. T…

1
Ep. 144 Nina Mata on her debut picture NEW, family and writing for celebrities 40:34

7M ago40:34

40:34

In this episode, I chat with the insightful Nina Mata—author of A Place for Fire and The Legend of the Hummingbird. We dive into her journey as a writer, debut children's book NEW, the cultural roots that inspire her stories, and how nature, family, and heritage intertwine in her work. Nina shares her thoughts on crafting stories that celebrate res…

1
Episode 48: Niña Mata, Author-Illustrator 51:19

8M ago51:19

51:19

Children’s author-illustrator Niña Mata joins the Thriving Writers Podcast to chat about her publishing journey—from illustrating educational materials, working with Olympian athletes, to finally writing her own stories! Listen to hear Niña share some tips on what illustrators gravitate towards in manuscripts and ways writers can make the collabora…

1
Writing Your Truth Through Grief and Introspection with Diandra Ford-Wing 53:01

8M ago53:01

53:01

In this episode of Wellspringwords: The Podcast, Nkem speaks with author Diandra Ford-Wing about her debut memoir Red Bird, “a heartfelt exploration of loss and resilience.” Framed by thoughtful questions from the Wellspringwords® community, Nkem and Diandra discuss writing truth from the heart, the complexity of writing about family members and fa…

1
Ep. 143 Betty C. Tang on Parachute Kids, Identity, and Growing Up Immigrant 39:17

9M ago39:17

39:17

In this episode, I sit down with the brilliant Betty C. Tang—author and illustrator of the powerful graphic novel Parachute Kids. We talk about her childhood, the real-life inspirations behind her work, and how identity, immigration, and family shaped the heart of her storytelling. Betty opens up about the emotional roots of Parachute Kids and what…

1
Episode 47: Courtney Maum, Author & Writing Coach 52:51

9M ago52:51

52:51

Thrilled to be joined by author and publishing expert Courtney Maum! She gives us insight behind her terrific book, Before and After the Book Deal, and talks about the highs and lows of the publishing business. Tune in for her knowledgable tidbits about marketing, building an online platform, self-publishing, memoir, and more! Courtney Maum Website…

1
The Yin Approach to Creative Expression & Embodiment 34:01

10M ago34:01

34:01

In this episode of Wellspringwords: The Podcast, Nkem speaks in depth about the Yin Yang philosophy that comprises our universe, and how we can harness the wisdom and power of the Yin, or feminine, aspect to nourish our creative expression and creative embodiment experiences. She defines creative expression and embodiment, and shares a practical ap…

1
Episode 46: Casey Moses, Cover Designer 54:21

10M ago54:21

54:21

What’s the secret behind designing a bestselling YA book cover? Are illustrated covers here to stay? Casey Moses, an Assistant Art Director at Penguin Random House, gives us some answers and provides insight into the role of a book cover designer. Listen to our in-depth conversation to learn about designing typography, special edition production, a…

1
EP.142 Quartez Harris chats NEW BOOK and what happen on his writing journey 47:36

10M ago47:36

47:36

Quartez Harris, a poet and teaching artist whose work has earned him numerous accolades, including the Ohio Poetry Association’s Poet of the Year for his collection We Made it to School Alive. Quartez is set to release his debut picture book, Go Tell It: How James Baldwin Became a Writer, with Little Brown in January 2025. Born in Springfield, Ohio…

1
Ep. 141 Lit Agent TELLS ALL about the industry, and what's it like to edit manuscripts 32:19

11M ago32:19

32:19

I’m excited to introduce you to Jenissa Graham, a Literary Agent at BookEnds Literary Agency. Jenissa began her publishing career at Writers House, starting as an intern and working her way up to the Subrights department as the Global Licensing and Media Rights Assistant. In 2022, she joined BookEnds Literary as an Associate Agent and Subrights Man…

1
Life as an Intimate Experience: Freedom, Sensuality, and Conscious Creativity 53:05

11M ago53:05

53:05

Welcome to season 6 of Wellspringwords: The Podcast! In this episode, Nkem journeys through different parts of the Wellspringwords® Universe, touching on themes of living in inquiry, sensuality, restorative living, being creative visionaries, and more. Some of the questions she poses are: "How do we live in a free state? " "How do we live as though…

1
EP.140 Jess is a public health professor, but in all her free time, she's a passionate artist. 43:56

11M ago43:56

43:56

I had the pleasure of speaking with Jess Owens-Young. By day, Jess is a public health professor, but in all her free time, she’s a passionate artist. Her work beautifully captures the essence of living as a Black person in the U.S., exploring various dimensions of Black life through acrylics, oil pastels, and inks. Jess also creates digital illustr…

1
EP.139 Black Muslim author, Rahma Mohamed shares story growing up in Canada 26:07

11M ago26:07

26:07

I talk to Rahma Mohamed, who was born and raised in Hargeisa, Somaliland. At just eight years old, her family immigrated to Canada, where they settled in Quebec. Rahma faced many challenges as she entered her first formal school, grappling with the French language while being the only Black Muslim girl in her class. Despite experiencing bullying, s…

1
Creating an Inner Sanctuary Through Writing, Self-Love, and Seeking Beauty 46:34

1y ago46:34

46:34

On this solo episode of Wellspringwords: The Podcast, Nkem closes out a nourishing season of self-inquiry, self-discovery, and fireside conversations with the community. What does it mean to cultivate an inner sanctuary for yourself? What has your journey of self-intimacy been like this year? What is the value of beauty in your life? Nkem speaks to…

1
Episode 45: John Matthew Fox, Writer & Founder of Bookfox 56:41

1y ago56:41

56:41

Ready to navigate the publishing landscape and want some practical advice? Mary Kole is joined by writing expert John Matthew Fox to chat about his work helping authors and founding his company, Bookfox. Conversation topics include the different publishing paths available to writers, the benefits and drawbacks of traditional vs. self-publishing, th…

1
Words as Witness: A Conversation on Connection & Community with Courtney and Brittany 1:01:38

1y ago1:01:38

1:01:38

On this nourishing episode of Wellspringwords: The Podcast, Nkem speaks with two writers and members of the Wellspringwords® community, Courtney Ng and Brittany Frizzelle. The trio touch on writing as a tool vs writing as art, writing in solitude and in/with/for community, voice reclamation through writing, and so much more. This episode is truly r…

1
EP.138 Hanna Cha Caldecott Honor Award-Winning Illustrator and Writer & Illustrator 31:05

1y ago31:05

31:05

Hanna Cha, a Caldecott Honor award-winning illustrator and writer known for her enchanting storytelling through art. Hanna shares her journey from a vagabond life between Seoul and the U.S. to becoming the creator of beloved books like *Tiny Feet Between the Mountains* and *The Truth about Dragons*. Learn about her creative process and what inspire…

1
EP.137 Nikki Grimes Rhymes and Reasons: Exploring Children's Poetry 36:52

1y ago36:52

36:52

Nikki Grimes was born in Harlem and spent her childhood moving through various neighborhoods in New York. As a foster child from a broken home, she faced constant farewells to new friends. In this challenging environment, reading and writing became her lifelines. When she had no one to confide in, Grimes poured her thoughts and feelings into poems …

1
Episode 44: Tracy Badua, MG & YA Author 59:13

1y ago59:13

59:13

Despite the challenges of balancing writing with a day job and parenting, middle grade and YA author Tracy Badua keeps churning out adventurous contemporary fantasy stories. Tracy’s books, all featuring Filipino-American characters, explore themes of cultural identity and family expectations, even drawing inspiration from Filipino superstitions she…

1
EP. 136 Jason Reynolds on Finding Strength in Vulnerability: Discussion on 24 Seconds From Now 43:34

1+ y ago43:34

43:34

Jason Reynolds shares his thoughts on life, the transformative power of storytelling, and the deep influence of his mother throughout his journey. We dive into his latest work, 24 Seconds from Now, which he describes as a love story for the ages, highlighting the intricate connections between love, identity, and personal growth. Our conversation ex…

1
EP. 135 Banned Books, Life and Samira Ahmed 46:38

1+ y ago46:38

46:38

Samira Ahmed discusses her new book, This Book Won't Burn, which explores family life and the alarming issue of book bans in America. In this episode, Ahmed dives into the importance of storytelling and the challenges faced by diverse voices in today's literary world. She reflects on her experiences growing up in a multicultural family and how thos…

1
The Art of Creative Practice 1:07:00

1+ y ago1:07:00

1:07:00

On this solo episode of Wellspringwords: The Podcast, Nkem dives into an open discussion about “creative practice” from both the pragmatic and spiritual perspectives. The four elements she journeys through in this episode are: Grounding yourself in your craft Cultivating creative practice as defining success for oneself Embodying our creative essen…

1
Episode 43: Farrah Penn, YA Author 50:23

1+ y ago50:23

50:23

Young adult author Farrah Penn (Twelve Steps to Normal & Cancelled) details her publishing journey, from striking out on submission to her newest novel. Listen in to this conversation for thoughts on the young adult genre, using tropes, crafting stakes and curveballs for your characters, and how screenwriting may help when writing a novel. Farrah P…

1
Honoring the Longing of the Heart through Self-Care, Spiritual Care, and Creative Practice with Darsheel Kaur 58:20

1+ y ago58:20

58:20

On this episode of Wellspringwords: The Podcast, Nkem speaks with Darsheel Kaur, wellness and cultural practitioner. In this conversation, they reflect on facilitation, spiritual stewardship, creative wellness, the power of rituals for maintaining self-care and mental wellness, and more. This episode is illuminating, informative, and soulfully nour…

1
EP. 134 Me & Mama author/illustrator Cozbi A. Cabrera talks poetry, life and Read Alouds 27:46

1+ y ago27:46

27:46

Cozbi A. Cabrera: Illustrating and Writer for Young Readers with Representation in Mind Acclaimed children's book author and illustrator Cozbi Cabrera takes us on a journey through her creative process, sharing intimate moments from her childhood that have deeply influenced her goal of providing authentic representation for young readers through he…

1
Coming Back to Life: A Resurgence of Self-Worth after Divorce with Laura Kopinski 41:03

1+ y ago41:03

41:03

On this episode of Wellspringwords: The Podcast, Nkem speaks with free-spirited soul, passionate dancer, and happiness and wellness coach, Laura Kopinski. This is Laura’s second time on the podcast after 3 years and she shares insights on her healing journey from cancer, divorce and back to her love of dance and movement. Laura is a true phoenix an…

1
EP. 133 Michael Arceneaux on Family, Loss & His Book I Finally Bought Some Jordans | Full Episode 33:40

1+ y ago33:40

33:40

Michael Arceneaux shares COPING WITH LOSS of his mother and the essays in his new book "I Finally Bought Some Jordans" that reflect on his close relationship with his mom and the complexities of family. Arceneaux discusses the mix of humor and heavy issues in his writing, including topics like personal finance, celebrity encounters, and navigating …

1
EP. 132 Tony Keith Jr. and HOW THE BOOGEYMAN BECAME A POET 49:02

1+ y ago49:02

49:02

Poet, writer, and educator Dr. Tony Keith Jr. makes his debut with a powerful YA memoir in verse, tracing his journey from being a closeted gay Black teen battling poverty, racism, and homophobia to becoming an openly gay first-generation college student who finds freedom in poetry. The audio experience is a true delight, with Tony's writing and na…

1
EP. 131 CHILDREN'S BOOK CAN REALLY change the world with Gracey Zhang | It's Personal 28:08

1+ y ago28:08

28:08

Artist and author Gracey Zhang shares insights into her diverse creative portfolio and the personal experiences that have shaped her art and writing. From her early days exploring the world through her travels, to her immersion in the vibrant art scene at one of the top art schools in the world, Gracey's path to artistic success has been a winding …

1
Episode 42: Jenn Hanson-dePaula, Book Marketing Consultant 58:57

1+ y ago58:57

58:57

Going viral on TikTok can’t be your entire book marketing strategy. So how do new authors go about finding their ideal readers? Jenn Hanson-dePaula guides you through the steps of elevating your book promo! Tune in to hear her take on what marketing is and isn’t, tips for building your social media platform (including valuable advice on what to pos…

1
EP. 130 Luana Horry, editor at HARPER COLLINS, chats PETE THE CAT & Books and music | It's Personal 43:09

1+ y ago43:09

43:09

Luana Horry, a passionate SENIOR EDITOR at HARPERCOLLINS Children's Books, who is revolutionizing the world of children's literature. Born and raised in Jamaica, Queens, a hub of extraordinary talents, Luana has made it her mission to diversify the publishing industry and amplify underrepresented voices. As a trailblazer in her field, Luana has wor…

1
Cultivating Your Authentic Expression Through an Intentional Writing Practice with Price Maccarthy 1:07:03

1+ y ago1:07:03

1:07:03

On this episode of Wellspringwords: The Podcast, Nkem has a dynamic conversation with Wellspringwords Writing Fellow, Price Maccarthy on the value of remaining a beginner at any stage of the writing journey. They speak about receiving mentorship as a writer, retaining one’s authenticity, shifting genres, and much more. If you’re cultivating a writi…

1
EP 129 Award WINNING author NICK BROOKS talks PROMISE BOYS & family | It's Personal 40:00

1+ y ago40:00

40:00

Best SELLING AUTHOR, Nick Brooks, the mind behind the critically acclaimed novel "The Promise Boys," talks about RELATIONSHIPS, and the music industry. Nick delves deep into the personal experiences that have shaped his literary journey, from his time creating music and working with renowned record labels, to the profound impact of becoming a "girl…

1
EP. 128 Ellen Oh, STUCK between cultures and WRITING for Middle School 42:32

1+ y ago42:32

42:32

Acclaimed children's book author Ellen Oh takes us on a captivating journey, sharing insights into her diverse literary portfolio and the personal experiences that have shaped her writing. From her early days as a lawyer and college instructor to her transition into the world of children's literature, explore Ellen's path to literary success. Delve…

1
EP. 127 Fredrick Joseph, speaks on family, Palestine, and Sports 43:26

1+ y ago43:26

43:26

Fredrick Joseph, New York Times Best Selling author, thought-provoking speaker, and advocate for equity and social justice, joins us for a captivating conversation. Fredrick will discuss his new poetry collection "We Alive, Beloved," which explores a new genre that seeks to find joy in moments of difficulty. Whether illuminating the beauty of being…

1
The Humanity in Our Divinity: A Conversation on Mental Illness & Wellness with Somi Nwandu 1:21:16

1+ y ago1:21:16

1:21:16

On this episode of Wellspringwords: The Podcast, Nkem sits with old friend, artist, and art curator Somi Nwandu to share a conversation on mental wellness, creative wellness, and spiritual nourishment. The topic of mental wellness is still associates with shame and stigma, despite how mainstream it seems to be. Nkem and Somi candidly and with compa…

1
Episode 41: Jarrett J. Krosoczka, NYT Bestselling Author/Illustrator 48:51

1+ y ago48:51

48:51

Mary is joined by NYT bestselling author/illustrator Jarrett J. Krosoczka to chat about his experience in children's publishing. He shares the challenges and gratifications of reaching across different age categories and the importance of illustrations in storytelling. Listen to hear his tips on writing within established franchises (like Star Wars…

1
Experiencing Yourself Through the Art of Fiction Writing 1:13:36

1+ y ago1:13:36

1:13:36

On this episode of Wellspringwords: The Podcast, Nkem shares insight about her experience writing her first fiction novel – especially as a writer who has taken her writing life into her own organic and authentic hands, no MFA program to bolster her creative authority. In this episode, she speaks about cultivating your fertility as a writing (creat…

1
Creating Your Peace Compass: Authenticity, Radical Honesty, and Embodiment 1:14:58

2y ago1:14:58

1:14:58

On this episode of Wellspringwords: The Podcast, Nkem has a rich discussion with her guest with the underlying theme being optimizing life for peace. What are the nuances of optimizing our circumstances for peace? Through this conversation, the two explore the realms of shame, self-honesty, and personal evolution, all to return to the authenticity …

1
Episode 40: Danielle Marietta, Creator of Books & Things Publishing 53:31

2y ago53:31

53:31

Danielle Marietta joins the podcast to discuss her publishing company, Books & Things Publishing, the children’s book sphere, and the importance of promoting diverse authors. Tune in to learn more about Danielle’s writing journey, and her tips on self-publishing, social media marketing, and connecting with your target audience. Danielle Marietta We…

1
Moment to meditate: “Breathing in your essence…” 24:34

2y ago24:34

24:34

Create some space and time to experience yourself through this simple guided meditation. Cultivate breath awareness in relation to your body, the Earth, your heart, and the ethers. This meditation intends to be a loving dose of energy medicine, fortifying the energetic alignment with your inner world and the outer world. Enjoy fully, and share with…