One of my goals for 2024 was to start a podcast. Rooted in the belief that our world needs the magic of children’s literature now more than ever, The Reader’s Heart podcast aims to capture conversations with authors and illustrators about children's literature as a vehicle for empathy and joy in a dark world. I was hopeful, at the beginning of 2024, that by using my little corner of the internet to share true stories about what motivates those who create books for young people, that I could (in my small way) help make the world better. As I write this post, near the end of that same year, continuing this work feels more urgent than ever.
SEASON 1: A JOYFUL EXPERIMENT!
I'm so grateful to everyone who said yes when I asked them to be a part of the first season of The Reader’s Heart. Truthfully, at a time when the world is flush with podcasts, I wasn't sure that people would want to be a part of this project. Of course, I am self-aware enough to recognize that at least part of that doubt is rooted in imposter syndrome. Still... I was equal parts surprised and delighted every single time someone said yes. And, y'all... everyone said yes!
** Corinna Luyken also created the beautiful illustration that serves as the show's logo. I've always found Corinna's art so moving and she perfectly captured the spirit of what I am trying to do, with this podcast, which is to put warmth and love into the world during a time when so many are working to limit kids' access to the warmth and love inherent in children's literature. I'm so proud to call Corinna my friend and my heart swells every time I see the artwork she created for The Reader’s Heart.
SEASON 2: A MORE THOUGHTFUL (AND JOYFUL) EXPERIMENT!
As I begin scheduling guests for the next season of The Reader’s Heart, I'm trying to be a bit more intentional about the process. Last season, I attempted to publish a new episode each week. And that worked for awhile, but soon proved unsustainable. Additionally, even though lots of folks told me I didn't need fancy equipment to create The Reader’s Heart, I soon become grumpy about the sound quality of some episodes. Even though no one complained, I want my guests to shine and I felt terrible when they didn't. Finally, I started with the goal of producing episodes that were around 30-45 minutes long. As a podcast listener myself, this felt like a sweet stop. So... with all of that in mind, here's what to expect from Season Two:
I've invested in some new equipment and tools, and I've got all my fingers and toes crossed for great results!
This year, my goal will be biweekly episodes - which feels a lot more doable. Last year, I managed to publish 24 episodes. This feels like a reasonable goal for Season Two, too!
I'm going to stick with my 30-45 minute length for now, though I'd love some feedback about this (and all the things!)
Finally, while I focused primarily on authors and illustrators of books for ES + MS aged readers the first time around, expect a lot more YA in Season Two!
Just like this year, I plan to start publishing the next season of The Reader’s Heart in January! In the meantime, I encourage you to catch up on Season One! You can listen to The Reader’s Heart wherever you find podcasts!
Wherever you listen to podcasts!
GUEST SUGGESTIONS
Last but not least, let me quickly address guest suggestions. Since Season One started, I've gotten a pile of emails and DMs from folks suggesting guests. I truly appreciate these ideas. However, at this time, I am not accepting guest suggestions. At this point in my journey with this project I'm following my own reader's heart as I select guests. If this changes, I promise to create a formal way for listeners to share their ideas.
In the meantime, thank you so much for being a part of The Reader’s Heart. I truly do believe that our world needs the magic of stories now more than ever. Onward!
