Best Nerd Out With Your Word Out Podcasts (2025)

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Crafting the Weird & Wonderful: A Chat with Michael Buckley 47:56

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2h ago47:56

47:56

Get ready to go into a world of mayhem, imagination, and unapologetic weirdness with New York Times Bestselling author Michael Buckley (yes, the mind behind The Sisters Grimm and N.E.R.D.S.). His newest middle-grade novel, The Weirdies, introduces ten-year-old triplets Barnacle, Melancholy, and Garlic, whose eccentric lives take a wild turn when th…

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Aliens, Laughs, and Creative Chaos with author Kevin Garone 24:28

1d ago24:28

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When aliens invade and toilet paper starts to move on its own, you know it’s going to be a wild read! In this episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries chats with author Kevin Garone about his laugh-out-loud and delightfully spooky Alien Survival Guide series, including I Know What UFO Did Last Summer and Night of the Living Toilet Pa…

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Turning Pages with Kate DiCamillo: From Because of Winn-Dixie to Lost Evangeline 32:18

1d ago32:18

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Tune into Reading in the Middle as I chat with Kate DiCamillo, a New York Times bestselling author, two-time Newbery Medal winner, and Newbery Honor recipient, whose classic Because of Winn-Dixie marks its 25th anniversary. We discuss her latest novel, The Lost Evangeline (Book Three of the “Norendy Tales” trilogy), beautifully illustrated by Sophi…

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Fold, flap, and roar with Tom Angleberger 37:07

7d ago37:07

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Get ready to fold, flap, and roar! 📚 Join host Annisha Jeffries for a lively chat with Tom Angleberger — creator of the iconic Origami Yoda series, the wildly imaginative Two-Headed Chicken: Chaos in the Cosmic Library, and the poetic dinosaur debut Dino Poet. Tom has sent middle-grade readers on insane multiverse adventures, unexpected poetry jour…

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Meg Medina | Finding Your Light in the Abyss 26:11

3d ago26:11

26:11

Newbery Medalist Meg Medina joins Reading in the Middle to talk about courage, culture, and her latest novel, Graciela in the Abyss. From Merci Suárez Changes Gears to sea-deep fantasy, Meg shares how stories help readers find their light and build empathy. Hear Meg reflect on balancing humor and heart, writing girls who speak their truth, and why …

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Changing How Kids Read: A Conversation with Sarah K. Blodgett, Founder of Noah Text 26:52

5d ago26:52

26:52

What if changing the way words look on the page could change the way kids feel about reading? In this episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries sits down with Sarah K. Blodgett, founder and CEO of Noah Text, an innovative reading format designed to make reading easier, more accessible, and more joyful, especially for those who struggl…

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Escaping the Drawer with Sammy and Annisha 37:17

24d ago37:17

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Page Count Podcast is celebrating its 100th episode! In this Bonus Episode! I had the pleasure of being a special guest—alongside one very opinionated and charming toucan named Sammy—for a lively conversation about puppets, children’s literature, libraries, and (of course) the eternal cat vs. dog debate. In this milestone episode, Page Count partne…

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#178 Allyce Fogule-Logue: Heaven's Ache 19:16

25d ago19:16

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Send us a text We live in a culture that numbs pain instead of naming it. When life unravels through loss, trauma, or burnout, we’re often told to “move on,” “stay positive,” or “just have more faith.” But what if the way forward isn’t denial—it’s lament? In this episode, pastor and writer Allyce Fogle-Logue joins us to talk about her new book Heav…

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Growing Up Beth with Beth York 34:04

19d ago34:04

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What is it like growing up as the only girl in a house full of five brothers? In this episode of Reading in the Middle, I sit down with Beth York to talk about her new memoir, Growing Up Beth (illustrated by Ana Latese), launching October 21, 2025. We dive into stories of sibling chaos, finding your own voice in the noise, and the moments — big and…

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#177 Kelly McCuaig: Good Guilt 34:25

1M ago34:25

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By Callie and Rosario Picardo

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Karina Yan Glaser on The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli 40:10

1M ago40:10

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Beloved author Karina Yan Glaser (The Vanderbeekers, A Duet for Home) returns with a breathtaking new story: The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli. Set across ancient China and Depression-era New York’s Chinatown, the novel blends history and fantasy in a moving tale about family, survival, and the courage to face the unknown. Host Annisha Jeffries tal…

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Walking in Paws: Ellen Phinney on A Dog and His Boy: The Switch 24:42

1M ago24:42

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Imagine if you and your dog could swap places just for a day! In this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries has a lovely chat with Ellen Phinney about her newest middle-grade novel, A Dog and His Boy: The Switch. They explore what sparked the story, how Ellen captures heartfelt emotion through humor and imagination, and what she hopes …

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👽📱 Press 1 for Invasion with J.A. Dauber 25:48

2M ago25:48

25:48

What happens when a simple photo on a found phone reveals the school crossing guard as… a monster? In his debut middle grade novel, Press 1 for Invasion (out now), J.A. Dauber blends laugh-out-loud humor, fast-paced action, and just the right amount of cosmic chaos. In this episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries chats with Dauber a…

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#176 Jim Harnish: Everyday Epiphanies 23:10

2M ago23:10

23:10

Send us a text What if the most profound revelations of God’s presence don’t happen on mountaintops or in dramatic moments, but in the ordinary rhythms of everyday life? In this episode, I sit down with Rev. James A. Harnish to talk about his newest book, Everyday Epiphanies: Meeting Christ in the Ordinary Moments of Life. Drawing from stories in t…

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Detectives, Spies & Storms: James Ponti’s Middle Grade Mysteries 49:21

2M ago49:21

49:21

Join host Annisha Jeffries on Reading in the Middle as she explores the exciting worlds created by James Ponti—from the globe-trotting adventures of City Spies and the clever mysteries of Framed! to the chilling underworld of Dead City and the detective tales of The Sherlock Society. His newest book, Hurricane Heist, was released on September 2, 20…

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Standing Up and Speaking Out: Darlene P. Campos on Friendship, Courage, and Ecuadorian History 18:11

3M ago18:11

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In this powerful episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries sits down with author Darlene P. Campos to discuss her latest middle-grade novel, The Center of the Earth. Set in 1930s Ecuador, the story follows Dahlia, a young girl whose life changes when she meets Werner, a Jewish boy escaping Nazi Germany. Together, they form an unforgettable…

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The Table: Art, Family & Food with Winsome Bingham & Jason Griffin 48:48

3M ago48:48

48:48

In this episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries welcomes celebrated author Winsome Bingham and Caldecott Honor recipient Jason Griffin to discuss "The Table," a poetic picture book that traces the life of a single table through generations. Discover how food traditions, visual storytelling, and creative collaboration enrich children…

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#175 From Pastor to Pilgrim: Justin Hibbard’s Journey to the Catholic Church 36:03

2M ago36:03

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Send us a text In this episode of Better Together, Pastor Roz sits down with Justin Hibbard—former Protestant pastor turned Catholic convert and host of the Why Catholic? podcast. With a background spanning Baptist, Pentecostal, Wesleyan, and other traditions, Justin shares what led him to explore Catholicism, ultimately embracing it as home. They …

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C.G. Esperanza: Art in Motion 41:42

3M ago41:42

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In this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries interviews C.G. Esperanza, an illustrator, author, and teaching artist whose vibrant artwork has transformed the look and feel of children’s books. This year, Esperanza received the 2025 Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award for My Daddy Is a Cowboy and a Caldecott Honor. He has previously b…

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The Art of Becoming: A Sisterhood Story with Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich 37:41

3M ago37:41

37:41

In this heartwarming episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries is joined by award-winning author Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich to talk about Operation Sisterhood and its brand-new sequel, Stealing the Show! Set in a Harlem brownstone filled with music, creativity, and the chaos of a blended family, these two novels follow Bo and Sunda…

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Roll the Dice on adventure with author Raj Sidhu 25:00

3M ago25:00

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What occurs when role-playing games blend with middle-grade storytelling? In this episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries chats with debut author Raj Sidhu about his new book, Thrash Force—a fast-paced multiverse adventure filled with dice rolls, high stakes, and memorable characters. Raj discusses what inspired his action-packed de…

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#174: Nathan Webb – A Church for Nerds, Geeks, and Gamers 26:03

3M ago26:03

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Send us a text What if church felt more like a Discord server than a pew? In this episode, we talk with Nathan Webb, aka the Nerd Pastor, founder of Checkpoint Church—a digital faith community created specifically for nerds, geeks, and gamers. Nathan shares the origin story of Checkpoint Church, which launched in 2020 with a vision to engage Comic-…

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ALA Rewind: Kitty Felde on Mysteries, Civics, and Capitol Hill Lore 16:21

3M ago16:21

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Recorded live at the ALA Annual Conference, Annisha interviews award-winning public radio journalist and author Kitty Felde about her middle-grade series The Fina Mendoza Mysteries, including Welcome to Washington, Fina Mendoza, and State of the Union. They discuss how Kitty combines engaging mysteries with real-world civics, the Capitol Hill legen…

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The Unraveling: Courage Takes Flight in the Woodland Realm 39:51

3M ago39:51

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In this episode of Reading in the Middle, we’re taking flight into a world where the smallest hero faces the biggest challenge. Meet Twig—a young chickadee whose peaceful life shatters when the ruthless Fortress Crows attack his village. Hunted by a powerful sorceress and her winged army, Twig is thrust into an epic quest filled with magical powers…

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Loons, Lakes & Big Feelings with Donna Galanti 17:44

4M ago17:44

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Summer is calling! In this episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries sits down with author Donna Galanti to talk about her heartfelt new middle-grade novel, Loon Cove Summer—a story of bravery, grief, friendship, and finding your way in the wild. We chat about: The real-life inspiration behind Sarah’s lakeside adventure Why loons make…

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Episode 34: A Conversation with Ambreen Butt-Hussain 16:44

4M ago16:44

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In this episode of Reading in the Middle, librarian and kid lit advocate Annisha Jeffries sits down with author Ambreen Butt-Hussain to talk about her laugh-out-loud, refreshingly honest middle grade series featuring the unforgettable Alina Butt. From being the new kid (again) to missing out on a class trip to Paris, Alina’s adventures in The Unlov…

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Episode 33: Never Take Your Rhino on a Plane with K.E. Lewis 25:48

4M ago25:48

25:48

What occurs when a chaotic flight inspires a fun picture book? In this episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries interviews author, poet, and educator K.E. Lewis about his latest book, Never Take Your Rhino on a Plane, illustrated by Isabel Roxas. They discuss how a frustrating travel moment turned into a rhyming cautionary story, the…

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#173 Chad Brooks: Is My Church Healthy? 26:18

3M ago26:18

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Send us a text Has anxiety about your church’s health ever taken over a leadership meeting? In this episode, Chad Brooks returns to share insights from his new book Is My Church Healthy?, a practical guide for assessing and revitalizing normal-sized churches. Chad introduces the Vitality Matrix, a strategic framework to help churches move from inst…

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Episode 32: Malcolm Lives with Dr. Ibram X. Kendi 20:59

4M ago20:59

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Guest: Dr. Ibram X. Kendi Book Featured: Malcolm Lives (2025, Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR) Host: Annisha Jeffries, Kidlit Advocate & creator of Reading in the Middle Topics Covered: Why Malcolm Lives was written for middle-grade readers in Malcolm X’s centennial year How Dr. Kendi balances biography with imaginative storytelling The importanc…

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Episode 31: So Over Sharing with Elissa Brent Weissman 39:06

4M ago39:06

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In this episode of Reading in the Middle, librarian and kidlit enthusiast Annisha Jeffries chats with author Elissa Brent Weissman about her latest middle grade novel, So Over Sharing.They discuss the inspiration behind the book, what it’s like to write for today’s tech-savvy tweens, and how Elissa strikes the perfect balance between humor and hea…

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#172 Chad Brooks: The New Rules of Self-Publishing 23:02

4M ago23:02

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Send us a text Forget everything you thought you knew about self-publishing. In this episode of The Better Together Podcast, we sit down with pastor, author, and strategist Chad Brooks to explore what it really takes to self-publish in today’s digital world. Chad walks us through how he wrote and released his first book—Is My Church Healthy?—in jus…

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Episode #171: Tony Miltenberger – Wisdom in the Wound 26:24

4M ago26:24

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Send us a text What if your greatest wounds could become your greatest teachers? In this episode of The Better Together Podcast, we sit down with pastor, veteran, executive coach, and author Tony Miltenberger to talk about his upcoming book Wisdom in the Wound (releasing September 23, 2025). Tony shares how pain, failure, and disappointment aren’t …

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Episode 30: Forest Magic & Bug Pooters: A Conversation with Susie Spikol 48:30

6M ago48:30

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What do fairy houses, mossy trails, and bug pooters share? They’re all ways to connect with nature—and today’s guest knows how to make the wild feel wonderfully magical. In this episode, Annisha Jeffries chats with Susie Spikol, naturalist, educator, and author of two inspiring books for middle-grade readers: The Animal Adventurer’s Guide and her n…

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Episode 29: Ben Guterson on Mystery, Magic, and the Power of Quiet Stories 37:43

6M ago37:43

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Today on Reading in the Middle, Annisha speaks with New York Times Bestselling author Ben Guterson, the creative force behind the acclaimed. Winterhouse Trilogy, The Einsteins of Vista Point, and the captivating World-Famous Nine series. As a former educator, Ben discusses how his teaching experience influences his storytelling, how he weaves intri…

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#170 Peter White: More Human, Not Less — Living a Sabbath-Shaped Life 25:29

6M ago25:29

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Send us a text What if rest isn’t a reward for finishing your work—but the place where your real work begins? In this episode, Rosario talks with Peter White, Anglican priest, spiritual director, and founder of The Sabbath Life, about why sabbath isn’t just for church leaders—it’s for all of us. Together, they explore how slowing down helps us beco…

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Episode 28: Frenemies, Campfires & Cartooning with author and illustrator Liz Montague 27:42

6M ago27:42

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In this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha sits down with acclaimed cartoonist and author Liz Montague to discuss her new graphic novel, Camp Frienemies. This summer camp story is full of humor, heart, and the beautifully messy journey of tween friendship. Best known for her groundbreaking memoir Maybe an Artist, Liz shares how she crafted t…

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217: Live Copy Consult with Lauren Fritts [The Stigma Disruptor from That Mental Shit Podcast] 43:27

6M ago43:27

43:27

Want to be a fly on the wall as a word nerd crafts concise, compelling copy? Then this episode is for you! : ) Live, no prep, and fully recorded (video in shownotes here below too), I talk with Lauren Fritts about her podcast, personal brand, and business. Under the umbrella of the name "That Mental Shit with Lauren Fritts" we brainstormed today on…

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Episode 27: Waves, Words & Big Feelings: Author, Bobbie Pyron on Octopus Moon 20:29

6M ago20:29

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What do skateboards, octopuses, and poetry have in common? In Bobbie Pyron’s newest novel-in-verse, Octopus Moon, they all play a role in one young girl’s emotional survival. In this heartfelt conversation, Bobbie Pyron — author of beloved middle-grade novels Stay, The Dogs of Winter, Lucky Strike, and more — joins host Annisha Jeffries to talk abo…

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003 - Future Pacing: The Simple & Subtle Trick to Get Your Prospect On the Path to "Yes" 8:42

7M ago8:42

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Future Pacing is an important psychological concept and tactic. We dive into why selling the "benefits" of your product is so much more effective than selling the "features" and how to do it with an example. What my real estate agent taught me about writing better copy. Why helping your audience visualize their future with your product can improve …

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Episode 26: Grace Lin & the Gate Between Worlds 24:05

7M ago24:05

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Award-winning author and illustrator @Grace Lin joins Reading in the Middle to discuss her newest middle-grade novel, The Gate, the Girl, and the Dragon — a sweeping fantasy filled with Chinese folklore, stone lions, and a possibly-not-a-worm dragon. In this episode, Grace reflects on her journey from aspiring ice skater to literary icon, shares be…

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Episode 25: The Crow’s Tales: Adventures with Victoria E. Pannell & Thorir Sigfusson 43:41

7M ago43:41

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Authors Victoria E. Pannell and Thorir Sigfusson join Reading in the Middle to discuss The Crow’s Tales, their bright and funny mystery series starring a ten-year-old boy, a loyal crew of friends, and one unforgettable crow named Ralph. From bake sales and bullies to ruby rings and remote-control car races, we explore how their books blend real-lif…

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#169 Joe Graves: Planting Boldly, Leading Creatively 34:15

6M ago34:15

34:15

Send us a text In this episode, we sit down with pastor, entrepreneur, and author Joe Graves to explore how a spirit of innovation can breathe new life into church leadership. Joe shares candid insights from his own church planting journey—what sparked it, what surprised him, and how his entrepreneurial instincts have shaped both the triumphs and t…

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Episode 24: Middle Grade in Full Color: A Conversation with author Emily Barth Isler 41:57

7M ago41:57

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Rosie, a 12-year-old musical prodigy with synesthesia, perceives music in color. After enduring years of her mother’s pressure to become a concert violinist, she yearns for a respite. However, an unexpected summer spent with her grandparents and a time glitch altered her life completely. Rosie suddenly encounters her mother as a child. In this epis…

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Episode 23: Creativity, and Finding Your Voice with author and illustrator Jerry Craft 24:31

7M ago24:31

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On today’s episode of Reading in the Middle, Newbery Medalist and Coretta Scott King Award winner Jerry Craft joins me for a lively conversation about creativity, competition, and the power of storytelling. Jerry shares the behind-the-scenes story of his new book J vs. K, a dynamic collaboration with fellow Newbery winner Kwame Alexander. This fast…

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Episode 22: Bigfoot, Bunk Beds & Big Laughs with author, Julie Ditchburn Patton 25:22

7M ago25:22

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📚 Bigfoot Is a Jerk by Julie Ditchburn Patton is a laugh-out-loud middle-grade adventure that blends summer camp chaos with cryptid-sized attitude. When new kid Zander signs up for Camp Bear Paw, he expects bug bites, bonfires, and bad cabin food—not a run-in with the most obnoxious Bigfoot in the forest. But something (or someone) is determined to…

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Episode 21: Amulets, Bullies & Big Adventures: Author, Donn Swaby on Corey Crumbly and the Lost Amulet 55:44

7M ago55:44

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We’re embarking on an adventure filled with friendship and middle school chaos with Donn Swaby, the author of Corey Crumbly and the Lost Amulet! 🏫💥🌀 Join us on Reading in the Middle as we discuss Corey’s thrilling quest, his comical best friend Sharod, and what it truly means to be courageous—even when panic sets in. Imagine Indiana Jones colliding…

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#168 Dustin Mailman: Deep Time Coffee 43:40

7M ago43:40

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Send us a text In this episode, we sit down with Rev. Dustin Mailman, founding pastor of Deep Time in Asheville, North Carolina. Dustin shares the story behind this innovative faith community rooted in radical hospitality, restorative justice, and opportunities for returning citizens. With a background in traditional ministry and a heart for creati…

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#167 Charles DiRico: Word on the Street 27:59

7M ago27:59

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Send us a text In this inspiring episode of Better Together, we sit down with Charles DiRico, the visionary behind Word on the Street—a growing network of dinner churches reaching nearly 400 people weekly. Charles shares the powerful story of how this movement began with simple meals and has grown into a vibrant ministry rooted in worship, communit…