Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast

What happens when a queen would rather lounge than lead? On this episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, Janaya Hernandez sits down with author and illustrator Paige Lawrence, creator of The Lazy Queen . Paige shares the inspiration behind her fun and heartwarming children’s book, her experience bringing a story to life through both words and illustrations, and the message she hopes young readers...

Some of the most important people in our lives don’t wear capes or carry magic wands. Sometimes, they’re the teachers who show up, believe in us, and leave an impact long after we leave their classroom. In this episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast , Janaya Hernandez sits down with author Monique C. Butler to talk about Fairy GodTeacher , a story centered on strength, sacrifice, and the often uns...

What happens when the Tooth Fairy is running late? In this episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast , Janaya Hernandez sits down with children’s author Shauna Farris to talk about The Tardy Tooth Fairy , the inspiration behind the story, and the heart behind creating books for young readers. Shauna shares her journey as an author, how she brings imagination and meaningful messages together, and why...

What happens when discovering the truth about who you are changes everything? Janaya Hernandez sits down with Connecticut author David Decker to discuss his young adult fantasy novel, Kyra of the North. Seventeen-year-old Kyra has spent her life sheltered outside the city of Mountain Side. When she finally steps into the wider world, new friendships and a hidden truth force her to question everyth...

What happens when a girl who has never quite fit in discovers that belonging might be found in the most unexpected place? In this episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast , I sit down with author Nick Westbrook to talk about Blanc-Labelle and the Troll’s Daughter , Book One of The Labelle Cycle . We dive into the magical world behind the story, the inspiration for Blanc-Labelle’s journey, and the th...

What happens when a simple Nantucket adventure becomes a story about kindness, courage, and helping others? This week on the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast , Janaya Hernandez sits down with author Jeff Verney , the creative mind behind Bunnies to the Rescue! A Nantucket Tail . Jeff shares the inspiration behind his lovable bunny adventure, his journey from storytelling and songwriting to becoming a child...

What happens when mystery meets purpose? This week on the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast , we sit down with mystery and suspense author Liz Bullard , author of Chasing Nightmares , to talk storytelling, suspense, justice, and the inspiration behind her gripping work. Join us as we discuss: • The story behind Chasing Nightmares • Writing mystery and suspense that keeps readers engaged • Themes of justice,...

In this heartfelt episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, we sit down with Vanessa E. Kelman, author of Searching for Home , for a thoughtful conversation about identity, belonging, healing, and the journey of finding yourself through life’s unexpected turns. Vanessa shares the inspiration behind her work, the emotions woven into storytelling, and what “home” truly means beyond a place. During our...

What happens when mythology, identity, and imagination collide? In this episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, we sit down with author Kelly Jarvis to discuss her enchanting novel Selkie Moon and the deeper themes woven throughout her storytelling. From folklore and self discovery to the emotional power of fantasy, Kelly shares the inspiration behind her writing journey, the importance of creatin...

What makes a mystery story impossible to put down? In this episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast , we sit down with author Mary Nunn Maki , writer of An Unexpected Death , to explore the craft behind suspense, plot twists, and unforgettable storytelling. Mary shares her journey into mystery writing, how she builds tension that keeps readers engaged, and the creative process behind developing comp...

What happens when imagination meets courage? In this heartwarming episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, we sit down with children’s author Stephanie Villeda Schaedler, the creative mind behind Mighty, Tiny Antony . Stephanie shares the inspiration behind her story, the importance of representation in children’s literature, and how storytelling can empower young readers to see strength in themsel...

What happens when poetry becomes a space for healing, reflection, and truth? In this episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, host Janaya Hernandez sits down with Sharon Arsego, author of Behind the Blue: Poetry & Prose, to explore the emotional depth and personal power behind her writing. Sharon shares how poetry became more than just words on a page — it became a way to process life, capture...

What happens when curiosity meets storytelling? In this episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, host Janaya Hernandez sits down with children’s author Kelly Copperthite Ranalli to explore how stories can spark learning, imagination, and confidence in young readers. Kelly is the author of The Tale of the Polka Dotted Tardigrade and Friends, a heartwarming and educational children’s book that introd...

What does it take to turn imagination into impact? In this episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, Janaya Hernandez sits down with author and advocate Jordan Lopez to explore the power of storytelling, resilience, and finding your voice through creativity. From building immersive fantasy worlds to navigating personal and professional challenges, Jordan shares the inspiration behind his books Looke...

Where stories speak. The Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast returns with Season 2, bringing you powerful conversations with authors, creatives, and leaders who are shaping their paths with intention, courage, and voice. Hosted by Janaya Hernandez, this podcast goes beyond surface-level interviews to explore the stories behind the journey — the moments of growth, the pivots, the challenges, and the breakthrou...

In this episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, we dive into the fascinating world beneath the ocean’s surface with author Elaine M. Alexander. Elaine is the author of Giant Cuttlefish: Chameleon of the Sea and Anglerfish: The Seadevil of the Deep, two captivating nonfiction books that introduce readers to some of the most mysterious creatures in our oceans. During this conversation, we explore •...

What happens when life takes an unexpected turn and love shows up anyway? In this heartfelt episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, we sit down with author Elissa Bass, writer of the novel Please Wait to Cross, to talk about love, reinvention, and the courage to begin again. Elissa shares the inspiration behind her story, the emotional journey of her characters, and why second chances are often wh...

What makes short fiction so powerful? How do suspense and noir create unforgettable tension in just a few pages? In this episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, I sit down with Steve Liskow, author of Sweet Ladies of Death, to explore the craft of suspense writing, the art of noir storytelling, and why short fiction continues to captivate readers. Steve shares insights on: • Writing compelling sho...

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, we sit down with author and founder Melissa B. Lombardo to explore how storytelling becomes a pathway to healing, resilience, and transformation. Melissa shares the inspiration behind her book Hurt, Healing, and Hope and the personal experiences that shaped her mission to create safe spaces for reflection, recovery, and growth....

In this episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, we sit down with suspense author Sharon Dukett to explore the world behind her novel The Shutdown List. We talk about what fuels high-stakes storytelling, how real-world tension shapes fiction, and the craft of building suspense that keeps readers turning pages late into the night. From political intrigue to personal courage, Sharon shares her creati...

Networking is not about collecting contacts. It is about building meaningful connections that create opportunity, growth, and alignment. In this episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, Janaya Hernandez explores what it truly means to leverage networking with intention and authenticity. From career growth to creative impact, this conversation breaks down how relationships, when nurtured properly,y...

In this episode,  we sit down with Tammy Gerhard, author of Cocoa Hugs and Coffee Mugs and I Love My Community: Kids Activity Book, for a thoughtful conversation about storytelling, connection, and building community through children’s literature. Tammy shares how her work centers warmth, belonging, and everyday moments that help children understand connection at home and in the world around them....

In this episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, host Janaya Hernandez is joined by Anna Laurie, author of The Infamous 8: The Birthday Party Adventure, for a thoughtful conversation on food allergy awareness, education, and empowerment through storytelling. Anna shares her journey as an advocate and author, discussing how her professional background in food allergy and wellness inspired her to wri...

In this heartwarming episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, we sit down with Heidi Rocha, author of the beloved Sparkly Smiles Series, to explore how storytelling can inspire healthy habits in children—one joyful page at a time. Heidi shares how her children’s books transform everyday dental routines into engaging adventures that help kids build confidence, reduce fear, and develop lifelong healt...

In this episode, author Wendy Haller joins the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast for a thoughtful conversation about writing, emotion, and the stories that stay with us. Wendy shares the inspiration behind her novel The Flannigan Girls, reflecting on family relationships, quiet moments of connection, and how emotion shapes both the writing process and the reading experience. We talk about trusting the story...