Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast

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 compelling characters and layered narratives.Whether you are an avid reader, an aspiring writer, or someone who simply loves a good mystery, this conversation offers insight, inspiration, and a deeper appreciation for the stories that keep us guessing.In this episode, we discuss:• The inspiration behind An Unexpected Death• Building suspense and pacing in mystery writing• Creating characters readers connect with• The writing process behind a compelling plot• Advice for aspiring authors Featured Book: An Unexpected Death by Mary Nunn Maki

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 themselves, no matter their size.From the first spark of an idea to holding her book in hand, Stephanie takes us through her journey as an author and reminds us why children’s stories matter more than ever.Whether you are a parent, educator, aspiring author, or simply someone who believes in the power of stories, this conversation will leave you inspired. In this episode, we explore:• The story behind Mighty, Tiny Antony• Building confidence through children’s books• The role of imagination in early development• Advice for aspiring children’s authors Stay connected with Nutmeg Lit Fest and discover more incredible authors shaping the literary world.

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 moments, and connect with others on a deeply human level.Together, we dive into:• The inspiration behind Behind the Blue• How poetry can hold emotion, memory, and meaning• The courage it takes to share your voice through writing• Why storytelling matters — even in its quietest formThis conversation is a reminder that poetry isn’t just read… It’s felt.Tune in, reflect, and let the words speak.

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 introduces science, friendship, and curiosity in a way that is both engaging and accessible.Together, Janaya and Kelly dive into the inspiration behind the book, the importance of early learning through storytelling, and how creativity can help children see the world in new and exciting ways.This conversation is a reminder that storytelling is not just about entertainment. It is a powerful tool for growth, discovery, and connection.

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 Looked Down Upon: A Masked Wickedness and Looked Down Upon: The Exiled Kin, and how storytelling became both an escape and a form of empowerment.This conversation goes beyond writing. It dives into identity, perseverance, and the courage it takes to keep showing up — even when the path is uncertain.If you’ve ever questioned your voice, your journey, or your purpose, this episode will remind you that your story matters. Where stories speak.

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 breakthroughs that define who we become.This season is bigger, bolder, and more intentional. Each episode is designed to inspire connection, elevate perspective, and remind you that your story has power.Whether you are an author, a professional, or someone navigating your next chapter, this is your space to listen, learn, and grow.Now streaming on all major platforms 

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• The inspiration behind writing about deep-sea creatures• How nonfiction storytelling can bring science to life• The incredible adaptations of cuttlefish and anglerfish• The importance of curiosity and nature education for young readersIf you love science, nature, and learning about the hidden wonders of the deep ocean, this episode will take you on a journey beneath the waves.About the AuthorElaine M. Alexander is an author known for her engaging nonfiction books that introduce readers to remarkable ocean creatures. Through vivid storytelling and fascinating facts, she helps readers discover the mysteries of the natural world and the incredible animals that live within it.Featured BooksGiant Cuttlefish: Chameleon of the SeaAnglerfish: The Seadevil of the Deep

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 where the real story begins. We explore themes of growth, vulnerability, timing, and what it means to trust yourself when life does not go according to plan.If you believe in fresh starts, unexpected connections, and stories that feel both intimate and hopeful, this episode is for you. Listen in and discover why sometimes the best chapters come after the plot twist.

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 short stories• Building tension without wasting a single word• The influence of classic noir• Why morally complex characters make stories unforgettable• Lessons learned from decades of writing and teachingWhether you are a writer, reader, or lover of dark, twisty fiction, this conversation will leave you thinking differently about the power of storytelling.

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. Through honest conversation, she discusses the role of writing in processing trauma, building community, and helping survivors reclaim their voices.As the founder of Write, Heal, Thrive, Melissa continues to support individuals and communities through the power of narrative, compassion, and connection. This episode offers a meaningful look at how stories can guide us through pain and into purpose.This conversation is ideal for survivors, educators, advocates, writers, and anyone seeking hope through authentic storytelling and shared experience.Tune in to discover how writing can become a tool for healing and a bridge to understanding.Listen now and join us as stories speak and healing begins.

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 creative process, the inspiration behind her characters, and what it takes to write stories that feel urgent, intelligent, and impossible to put down. What you will hear in this episode• The inspiration behind The Shutdown List• Writing conspiracy and danger with authenticity• Building tension and pacing that grips readers• The discipline behind writing fast paced suspense• Advice for writers navigating complex storylines Listen now and discover the story behind the suspense. New episodes every Tuesday.

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 can open doors long before you ever knock.Janaya shares insights from her work as an author, leader, and community builder, including lessons from her book The Power of Connection. This episode is for professionals, creatives, and leaders who want to stop networking out of obligation and start connecting with purpose.Listen in and be reminded Why networking works best when rooted in service How to shift from transactional to transformational connections Practical ways to build relationships that support long-term success Why your story presence and consistency matter more than the titleThat your next opportunity may already be connected to someone you know.

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. We discuss why representation and community matter in early reading, how stories can spark meaningful conversations between adults and children, and what inspired her to create books that are both comforting and empowering.This episode is a celebration of storytelling as a bridge between generations, neighborhoods, and shared experiences.We explore:• How children’s books can nurture empathy and confidence• The role of community in shaping young readers• Why everyday stories matter just as much as big adventures• Using books as tools for connection at home and in classroomsIf you love books that bring people together and stories that center care, creativity, and community, this episode is for you.

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 write directly for children. The conversation explores the importance of helping kids understand food allergies in an age-appropriate way, building confidence in social settings, and encouraging self-advocacy from an early age.This episode also features our signature segment, From the Page, where Anna reads a passage from The Infamous 8, offering listeners a glimpse into the heart of the story and the conversations it’s designed to spark among children, parents, and educators.In this episode, we discuss:Food allergy awareness through children’s literatureEducating children without creating fear or overwhelmConfidence and self-advocacy for kids and familiesHow storytelling supports safer, more informed communitiesNew episodes of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast drop every Tuesday.Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast — Where stories speak.

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 healthy habits. We talk about the power of relatable characters, playful learning, and how stories can support parents, educators, and caregivers in making wellness fun and approachable.Whether you’re a parent, teacher, librarian, or children’s author, this episode highlights how intentional storytelling can shape positive behaviors and meaningful family moments. Tune in for a conversation filled with creativity, compassion, and smiles.

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 as it unfolds, writing with honesty, and allowing space for reflection on the page.During our From the Page segment, Wendy reads a short passage from The Flannigan Girls, offering listeners a glimpse into her voice and the heart of the novel.This episode is a calm, reflective conversation for readers and writers who appreciate stories rooted in emotion, connection, and the moments that shape who we become.

Every book has a story behind it and every author has a moment when they decide to tell it.In this launch episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, we sit down with Jack Matthews ;author, storyteller, and founder of Nutmeg Lit Fest , for a conversation about writing, vision, and the journey behind the page.Rather than focusing on plot, this episode centers the author: the creative process, the challenges of writing, and the moments that shape both the work and the writer. Jack reflects on his path to storytelling, the role of community in the literary world, and what it means to create space for authors to be seen and heard.

The Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast is officially launching! New episodes drop every Tuesday, featuring conversations with authors, poets, and creatives sharing their books, journeys, and the stories behind their work.This podcast is an extension of Nutmeg Lit Fest’s mission to amplify voices, celebrate storytelling, and build authentic creative community.Nutmeg Lit Fest authors are invited to be featured guests.Interested in being interviewed? Apply to join us on the podcast and share your creative journey.All Nutmeg Lit Fest authors are encouraged to Subscribe, follow, and stay connected ,because this is where stories speak and authors connect.

Welcome to the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast! Where stories speak.This podcast celebrates authors, storytellers, poets, and creatives from Connecticut and beyond. Each episode shines a light on the voices, stories, and creativity shaping our literary community.Whether you’re a writer, a reader, or someone who simply loves the power of storytelling, this podcast is for you.Get ready for inspiring conversations, creative insights, and stories that connect us all.