In this latest episode of the podcast Joe takes some time here towards the end of the year to hone in on the core topic which always drives the podcast, how to raise inclusive kids who will make the world a better place.

Wade Hudson stops by the podcast to talk about his latest book The Reckoning. Joe and Wade get into a discussion about why Wade decided to write the book, what else he is up to, and how we can use the lessons from his book to spur on action in our own day-to-day lives.

Enjoy!

About Wade Hudson

Wade Hudson is an author, a publisher, and the president and CEO of Just Us Books, Inc., an independent publisher of books for children and young adults. He has published over thirty books, including the anthologies We Rise, We Resist, We Raise Our Voices, which received four starred reviews; The Talk, which earned four starred reviews and was a New York Times Best Book of the Year; and Recognize: Black Lives Matter. These powerful collections were co-edited with his wife, Cheryl Willis Hudson. He also authored the middle grade memoir Defiant: Growing Up in the Jim Crow South, winner of the Malka Penn award. 

About 'The Reckoning'

Lamar can’t wait to start his filmmaking career like his idol Spike Lee.  And leave behind his small town of Morton, Louisiana. But for now, Lamar has to learn how to be a filmmaker while getting to know his grandfather. 

When Gramps talks about his activism and Black history, Lamar doesn’t think much about it. Times have changed since the old Civil Rights days! Right? He has a white friend named Jeff who wants to be a filmmaker, too, even though Jeff’s parents never let him go to Lamar’s Black neighborhood. But there’s been progress in town. Right?

Then Gramps is killed in a traffic altercation with a white man claiming self-defense. But the Black community knows better: Gramps is another victim of racial violence. Protesters demand justice. So does Lamar. But he is also determined to keep his grandfather’s legacy alive in the only way he knows how: recording a documentary about the fight against injustice. 

Make sure to check out the Dtalkspodcast.com website!

Thanks to Empire Toys for this episode of the podcast!

AND Thanks to Self Unbound for this episode of the podcast:

After interviewing Deborah Hopkinson a few months ago she mentioned the incredible illustrator Kate Gardiner who worked on the book 'Small Places, Close to Home'. She told me how amazingly talented she is, and after checking out the art myself I wholeheartedly agreed and KNEW I had to get her on the podcast.

I'm honored that Kate stopped by the show to tell us all about her experience working with Deborah, what drew her (pun intended!) to illustration, and what's next for her.

Enjoy!

About Kate Gardiner

Kate Gardiner is a New England based illustrator. Kate often finds herself inspired by quiet scenes of nature, finding beauty in moments of rest. She aims to capture the calm of these moments through her illustrations, often gaining inspiration through her mixed heritage, as a member of the Chaubunagungamaug band of Nipmuck Indians as well as the traditions of her Polish roots. She received her BFA in illustration at Maine College of Art & Design in 2020. Kate has several upcoming books, her debut picture book “Small Places, Close to Home”, by Deborah Hopkinson (HarperCollins/Balzer + Bray)  is scheduled for publication in Fall 2023. “Sometimes we Fall” by Randall de Seve (Penguin/Random House Studio), “A Family Tree” by Staci Droulliard (HarperCollins/Heartdrum) and is just beginning work on “Firefly Season” by Cynthia Leitich Smith (HarperCollins/Heartdrum). She is represented by Steven Malk of Writers House Literary Agency

Make sure to check out the Dtalkspodcast.com website!

Thanks to Empire Toys for this episode of the podcast!

AND Thanks to Self Unbound for this episode of the podcast:

https://deborahhopkinson.com/books/plot-to-kill-a-queen/Do you like books about "An well-crafted mystery about an intrepid young girl’s quest to foil a plot to assassinate Queen Elizabeth I."?

Or how about "One small kitten learns about the great big world as he sets sail with his fellow shipmates, animal and human"?

Or perhaps, this might sound the most interesting to you "A best loved fairytale is given the ending it deserves in this clever picture book that shows a heroine shape her own destiny … and find her fairytale princess."

ALL of these books are written by today's guest, Deborah Hopkinson!

Deborah stops by The DTALKS Podcast to share her perspective becoming an author, why she felt these stories needed to be told, and what she hopes both parents and kids alike get out of her stories, enjoy!

About Deborah Hopkinson

A native of Lowell, Massachusetts, Deborah Hopkinson is the award-winning author of seventy books for young readers including picture books, middle grade historical fiction, Little Golden Book biographies, and long form nonfiction.  Her titles have won the Oregon Book Award, the SCBWI Golden Kite Award for Picture Book Text, the Jane Addams Children’s Book Award, and the Green Earth Environmental Award. Other awards include a Sibert honor, a Carter G. Woodson honor, NCTE Orbis Pictus Honor, and Boston Globe/Horn Book honor.

About 'Cinderella and a Mouse Called Fred'

If you thought you knew the fairy tale Cinderella, think again!

Did you know that the fairy godmother was actually grouchy? Or that the rodent she transformed into the coach’s horse was named Fred? Or that Cinderella hid from the prince when he came looking for her with that uncomfortable glass slipper?!

A best loved fairytale is given the ending it deserves in this clever picture book that shows a heroine shape her own destiny … and find her fairytale princess.

About 'Trim Sets Sail'

One small kitten learns about the great big world as he sets sail with his fellow shipmates, animal and human, in this historical fiction intermediate reader.

When Trim trips over a napping dog, little does he know that soon he’ll set sail and begin learning how to be a ship’s cat. Among his first lessons: the parts of the ship (the front is called the bow, like “bow wow”), the dynamics among his new colleagues (Jack the ship’s parrot is not so easy to befriend), and basic skills like climbing (up is easier than down) and swimming. With the assistance of Captain Flinders, Penny the ship’s dog, and Will the ship’s artist, Trim learns new skills, tests his limits and abilities, and finds a way to contribute to life onboard.

This delightful early reader series is inspired by the true story of Trim, often called the most famous ship’s cat in history. Owned by British explorer Matthew Flinders, Trim traveled on the HMS Investigator on the first expedition to circumnavigate Australia (1801–1803).

About 'The Plot to Kill a Queen'

An well-crafted mystery about an intrepid young girl’s quest to foil a plot to assassinate Queen Elizabeth I.

Emilia Bassano is a girl who relishes the music of words. Although she plays the lute and writes poetry, Emilia nurtures a dream: to hear her words come alive on stage. Emilia wants to write soliloquies for heroes and kings and queens of old, fashion fierce villains to make audiences howl, and try her hand at comedy and romance. Most of all, she wants to create unforgettable women characters.

On one of her trips to the theater, an unfortunate series of events leaves her penniless, with no way of watching the show. That is until a boy by the name of Will Shakespeare helps her sneak in to see the play. They realize they’re both aspiring playwrights and Emilia convinces Will to join her in her efforts to win a playwriting competition at the palace of Queen Elizabeth I.

However, when Emilia accidentally uncovers a plot to kill the queen, she is given the job of traveling to the castle where Mary Queen of Scots is being held captive, to discover who is responsible for the plan to murder Queen Elizabeth—and to thwart it! Can Emilia and her friends stop the plans of a disguised murderer on the loose?

Make sure to check out the Dtalkspodcast.com website!

Thanks to Empire Toys for this episode of the podcast!

AND Thanks to Self Unbound for this episode of the podcast:

Ok, but what IS in a caterpillar's cocoon? And HOW is a butterfly different from a moth?

If you're asking yourself these questions, fear not for the guest on the latest #DTALKSPodcast episode, Rachel Ignotofsky has you covered!

Rachel covers, in great visual detail, everything you've ever wanted to know about cocoons, moths, and even a butterfly in her latest book 'What’s Inside a Caterpillar Cocoon? And Other Questions About Moths & Butterflies'.

Rachel does a great job explaining her background in children's literature and how the "info graphic style" she illustrates her books with helps educate adults alongside their kids (like me!)

Enjoy!

How interested were you in animals growing up?

Ok, but do you EVEN KNOW a sloth!?

Where is your San Diego Zoo CD-ROM?

Animals always leave an impression on us. Whether through our pets, or through engaging with animals at a zoo, we all form opinions on animals early on. 

In this episode, Joe gets to talk all about animals, the zoo, and the journey certain animals take and how we can learn from them with Georgeanne Irvine.

Enjoy!

About Georgeanne Irvin

In this episode of the podcast Joe talks to noted author Patrice Karst about her latest book "Ruby and Lonely". However, the conversations spans to include Patrice's original book "The Invisible String" and even touches on her book "The Invisible Leash" and the unique connection Joe has to the book.

Enjoy!

About Patrice Karst

Patrice Karst is the author of the bestselling, contemporary classic children’s (and adults’!) book The Invisible String, which has sold over 1.5 million copies and been translated into seventeen languages. It is the story of the String (made out of love!) that connects us all. The Invisible String book series offers children a tangible understanding of love and teaches the world about the String that “even though you can’t see it with your eyes, you can feel it in your heart and know that you are always connected to everyone you love.”

Patrice has been on a lifelong mission to share the message that this energy called love transcends time and space and is the most powerful force in all the universe.

About Ruby and Lonely

Ruby’s got a problem. At school and at home, everyone is so busy all the time, and no one seems to notice her at all. Ruby finds herself feeling kind of…lonely. It’s a big problem! But one day, while walking home alone after school, she decides to look at her problem from a new angle. She even gives it a name―Lonely―a seemingly small but significant decision that transforms her problem, and entire life, in the most surprising and extraordinary way. Join Ruby as she discovers her inner best friend in this relatable and heartwarming story. A note from the author and discussion questions are included.

Make sure to check out the Dtalkspodcast.com website!

Thanks to Empire Toys for this episode of the podcast!

AND Thanks to Self Unbound for this episode of the podcast:

In this episode of the podcast Joe talks to Ruchira Gupta about her latest book "I Kick and I Fly". However, the conversation spans far beyond the realm of the book as both Joe & Ruchira discuss how folks can truly raise inclusive kids and make the world a better place.

Enjoy!

About Ruchira Gupta

Ruchira Gupta is an Emmy winning journalist and founder of the anti sex trafficking NGO Apne Aap, that empowers women and girls to exit systems of prostitution. I Kick and I Fly is her debut fiction novel.

Ruchira has worked for the United Nations in Nepal, Thailand, Kosovo, Iran, and the USA. She occasionally teaches at the New York University’s Center for Global Affairs as a visiting faculty.

Ruchira divides her time between New York and Forbesganj, her childhood home in the foothills of the Himalayas, where she furthers the work of Apne Aap and paints her mother’s garden.

About 'I Kick and I Fly'

Get ready to go BACK! Back in time through food!?

Yes!

On today's episode of the podcast we welcome author Flora Ahn to the show to discuss her latest book "A Spoonful of Time". 

This book will warm your heart and provide you with all the recipes you need to fill your stomach!

Seriously though, Joe & Florah get into a fantastic discussion about representation, food, ancestry, and how we can continue to learn from older generations (and others) when we take the opportunity to sit down with them, over a meal, and listen.

Enjoy!

About Flora Ahn

Flora Ahn is an attorney by day and an author and illustrator by night. Her work includes a children’s chapter book series, Pug Pals (Scholastic) and an Audible Original, The Golden Orchard. Raised in California by her Korean immigrant parents, Ahn lives in Virginia with her three pugs and practices law in DC.

About 'A Spoonful of Time'

Maya’s grandmother, Halmunee, may be losing her memory, but there’s something almost magical about the way she cooks. Whether Halmunee serves salty miyeokguk or sweet songpyeon, her stories about Korea come to life for Maya.

Then one day, something extraordinary happens: a single delicious bite of patbingsu transports Maya and Halmunee back into one of Halmunee’s memories. Suddenly they’re in Seoul, and Halmunee is young.

This is just the first of many secrets Maya will uncover: that she and her grandmother can time-travel, and they aren’t the only ones with this ability. As Maya eats her way through the past, her questions multiply—until a shocking discovery transforms everything she thought she knew about family, friendship, loss, and time itself.

A middle grade novel about 13-year-old Maya who discovers she can travel across time through her Halmunee's memories by cooking Korean treats. A reimagined version of The Golden Orchard.

Make sure to check out the NEW Dtalkspodcast.com website!

Thanks to Empire Toys for this episode of the podcast!

AND Thanks to Self Unbound for this episode of the podcast:

In this episode of the podcast Joe talks to both author Megan Wagner Lloyd and illustrator Michelle Mee Nutter about their fantastic book Squished!

Megan & Michelle dig into themes of the book, why representation matters, and how kids can use books to help them ground their emotions as they group up feeling all different types of 'squished' 

It was a fantastic conversation and Squished is a fantastic book - be sure to pick it up from your favorite local bookstore today!

About Megan Wagner Lloyd

Megan Wagner Lloyd is the author of the bestselling kids’ graphic novels Allergic and Squished, co-created with illustrator Michelle Mee Nutter, and the Super Pancake kids’ graphic novel series, co-created with illustrator Abhi Alwar. Megan is also the author of the children’s novel Haven: A Small Cat’s Big Adventure, the kids’ activity book The Creative Writing Playbook, illustrated by Madeline Garcia, the picture book Finding Wild, illustrated by Abigail Halpin, and several more picture books. She lives with her family in the Washington DC area.

About Michelle Mee Nutter

Michelle Mee Nutter is the co-creator, with Megan Wagner Lloyd, of Allergic, an instant bestseller. Michelle graduated with a degree in illustration from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design. Her work has been recognized by the Society of Illustrators, 3x3 Illustration, Creative Quarterly, and more. Michelle lives in Boston.

About 'Squished'

Eleven-year-old Avery Lee loves living in Hickory Valley, Maryland. She loves her neighborhood, school, and the end-of-summer fair she always goes to with her two best friends. But she’s tired of feeling squished by her six siblings! They’re noisy and chaotic and the younger kids all love her a little too much. All Avery wants is her own room — her own space to be alone and make art. So she’s furious when Theo, her grumpy older brother, gets his own room instead, and her wild baby brother, Max, moves into the room she already shares with her clinging younger sister Pearl! Avery hatches a plan to finally get her own room, all while trying to get Max to sleep at night, navigating changes in her friendships, and working on an art entry for the fair. And when Avery finds out that her family might move across the country, things get even more complicated.

Make sure to check out the NEW Dtalkspodcast.com website!

Thanks to Empire Toys for this episode of the podcast!

AND Thanks to Self Unbound for this episode of the podcast:

Are you ready for an adventure of an 11th century lifetime!? 

What will you do when every village you encounter sends an assassin after your guardian?

This is the premise of the story "The many assassinations of Samir, the seller of dreams". Our guest today, Daniel Nayeri, talks to us about how he came to write this story, why the magic of the silk road fascinates him, and what he hopes everyone gets out of the book.

Enjoy!

About Daniel Nayeri

Daniel Nayeri was born in Iran and spent some years as a refugee before immigrating to Oklahoma at age eight with his family. He is the author of several books for young readers, including Everything Sad is Untrue (A True Story), winner of the Michael L. Printz Award, the Christopher Medal, and the Middle Eastern Book Award. He lives in the US with his wife and son.

About 'The Many Assassinations of Samir, The Seller of Dreams'

A new all-ages adventure tale from Printz Medal Winner, Daniel Nayeri

This is the tale of an exciting journey along the Silk Road with a young Monk and his newfound guardian, Samir, a larger than life character and the so-called “Seller of Dreams”. The man is a scammer; his biggest skill being the ability to talk his way into getting what he wants. While that talking did save Monkey’s life, it has left a lot of people furious with Samir— furious enough to hire assassins. Monkey decides to try and save Samir from the attempts on his life—as a way to pay off his debt! If he can save Samir six times, he’ll be a free man...but will they all survive that long?

For fans of The Little Prince and Salman Rushdie's Haroun and the Sea of Stories.

Make sure to check out the NEW Dtalkspodcast.com website!

Thanks to Empire Toys for this episode of the podcast!

AND Thanks to Self Unbound for this episode of the podcast:

**INTRODUCING A NEW DTALKS PODCAST PRODUCTION: '25 FOR 25'**

In Chapter VI: "Let me set the record straight" current International Communications rep with Major League Soccer (MLS) / Soccer United Marketing (SUM) and former PR rep/Jack of all trades/"PT Barnum of Soccer" Gabe Gabor takes us deep into the 'unbelievable" aspects of all things Miami Fusion!

Gabe shares a few different unbelievable stories in this episode which include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. KC dollar night
2. Lockhart construction workers sleepover!
3. Picking up Carlos Valderrama (and entourage) at the airport
4. Almost not hiring iconic Ray Hudson to do commentary for the Fusion
5. Additional details from that memorable "Saginaw, Michigan" US Open Cup game
6. Accidentally getting the first Miami Fusion coach fired?

And SO.MUCH.MORE!

It's a truly incredible episode, and we cannot thank Gabe enough for sharing his stories with us.

Enjoy!

25 years ago, on March 15, 1998, the Miami Fusion kicked off their opening game in MLS' 3rd season, becoming one of the 2 expansion teams in this ever-growing professional league.

In 2001, despite putting together one of the best seasons in MLS history (at that point and arguably since), MLS made the decision to fold both the Fusion and their Florida neighbors, the MLS original franchise, Tampa Bay Mutiny.

While MLS soccer has returned to Miami in the form of David Beckham's Inter Miami, much has been discussed of "what could've been?" Had the Miami Fusion been allowed to stay and build. Indeed, what WOULD a Miami Fusion look like in 2023?

This podcast tells the story of the Miami Fusion through the voices of those who actually lived it. 25 interviews across 25 episodes charting the good, the bad, and the unbelievable.

**INTRODUCING A NEW DTALKS PODCAST PRODUCTION: '25 FOR 25'**

In Chapter V: "Fine, I'll score goals" the 2001 MLS Scoring Champion AND league MVP Alex Pineda Chacon shares his perspective participating as a key figure in that magical 2001 season for the Miami Fusion.

Alex shares his early interactions with Miami a few years before he finally came to the team, how he ended up playing in MLS, and why he begrudgingly accepted his role to 'score goals' when he was used to being the playmaker on the team, not the goalscorer.

It was an absolute delight to welcome this legend to the podcast, enjoy!

25 years ago, on March 15, 1998, the Miami Fusion kicked off their opening game in MLS' 3rd season, becoming one of the 2 expansion teams in this ever-growing professional league.

In 2001, despite putting together one of the best seasons in MLS history (at that point and arguably since), MLS made the decision to fold both the Fusion and their Florida neighbors, the MLS original franchise, Tampa Bay Mutiny.

While MLS soccer has returned to Miami in the form of David Beckham's Inter Miami, much has been discussed of "what could've been?" Had the Miami Fusion been allowed to stay and build. Indeed, what WOULD a Miami Fusion look like in 2023?

This podcast tells the story of the Miami Fusion through the voices of those who actually lived it. 25 interviews across 25 episodes charting the good, the bad, and the unbelievable.

**INTRODUCING A NEW DTALKS PODCAST PRODUCTION: '25 FOR 25'**

In Chapter IV: "Finally, I have a team" El Presidente himself, Fernando Fiore, shares his perspective on what it was like covering the Miami Fusion throughout their run in MLS. While hosting Republica Deportiva on Univision every Sunday he was uniquely positioned to push the Miami Fusion and Major League Soccer to a new soccer-loving audience.

Fernando shares the dismay he felt at losing both the NY Cosmos and the Miami Fusion, and why he's fervently pushed for broader acceptance of soccer in the United States to help grow the game globally.

Enjoy!

25 years ago, on March 15, 1998, the Miami Fusion kicked off their opening game in MLS' 3rd season, becoming one of the 2 expansion teams in this ever-growing professional league.

In 2001, despite putting together one of the best seasons in MLS history (at that point and arguably since), MLS made the decision to fold both the Fusion and their Florida neighbors, the MLS original franchise, Tampa Bay Mutiny.

While MLS soccer has returned to Miami in the form of David Beckham's Inter Miami, much has been discussed of "what could've been?" Had the Miami Fusion been allowed to stay and build. Indeed, what WOULD a Miami Fusion look like in 2023?

This podcast tells the story of the Miami Fusion through the voices of those who actually lived it. 25 interviews across 25 episodes charting the good, the bad, and the unbelievable.

IT'S MORPHIN' TIME!

MASTODON!...and you know the rest! On today's episode of the podcast Joe gets to talk to one of his childhood stars!

Walter Jones stops by the podcast to discuss the latest Netflix special 'Power Rangers: Once and Always' debuting on Wednesday, April 19!

Walter and Joe discuss how he first got the role of Zack back in '93, how he felt being the first black superhero on tv and the weight it carried, and how he hopes his return to the Power Rangers franchise will provide the closure both he, and the fans, never received when he abruptly left the show midway through the 2nd season.

Come on and enjoy this latest episode of the podcast ahead of the Power Rangers special debuting on 4/19, on Netflix!

About Walter Emanuel Jones

Walter is an actor, dancer and singer. Walter is internationally known for his creation of the character Zack The Black Ranger from the Children's Action Adventure Phenomenon Mighty Morphin Power Rangers (1993). He has been featured as a series regular or guest star in over 150 episodes of various shows and has been featured in several films.

About Power Rangers: Once and Always

After tragedy strikes, an unlikely young hero takes her rightful place among the Power Rangers to face off against the team's oldest archnemesis

Make sure to check out the NEW Dtalkspodcast.com website!

Thanks to Empire Toys for this episode of the podcast!

AND Thanks to Self Unbound for this episode of the podcast:

**INTRODUCING A NEW DTALKS PODCAST PRODUCTION: '25 FOR 25'**

In Chapter III: "Can you work with pros?" former assistant coach John Trask shares his stories of coaching the Fusion alongside Ray Hudson during both the 2000 & 2001 seasons.

John shares a few different unbelievable stories in this episode which include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. The unique job interview John had for Ray Hudson in 2000
2. Playing the Michigan Bucks (a PDL team) in Saginaw, MI during the '00 US Open Cup
3. The range of emotions in the room when the Fusion were contracted, via conference call, at the end of the '01 season

It's a truly incredible episode, and we cannot thank John enough for sharing his stories with us.

Enjoy!

25 years ago, on March 15, 1998, the Miami Fusion kicked off their opening game in MLS' 3rd season, becoming one of the 2 expansion teams in this ever-growing professional league.

In 2001, despite putting together one of the best seasons in MLS history (at that point and arguably since), MLS made the decision to fold both the Fusion and their Florida neighbors, the MLS original franchise, Tampa Bay Mutiny.

While MLS soccer has returned to Miami in the form of David Beckham's Inter Miami, much has been discussed of "what could've been?" Had the Miami Fusion been allowed to stay and build. Indeed, what WOULD a Miami Fusion look like in 2023?

This podcast tells the story of the Miami Fusion through the voices of those who actually lived it. 25 interviews across 25 episodes charting the good, the bad, and the unbelievable.

What would you do if someone came back to the future to save the earth? No, we're not talking about the Terminator today (Looper maybe but no Arnold today), we're talking about 'We the Future' by fantastic author Cliff Lewis. In his book, Cliff details what might happen if someone from the future comes back to present day to teach us how we can help solve the climate crisis!

In this episode of the podcast, Cliff and Joe get into a fantastic conversation about Cliff's origins writing, what led him to write this book, how it's a moral imperative to "make the world a better place", and what we can all do to try and reverse some of the ways we've been contributing to the problem. 

It's an overall fascinating discussion, enjoy!

About Cliff Lewis

Cliff Lewis is an author and speaker who helps young readers explore weighty subjects through the lens of a wild-eyed, pop culture-addled imagination. He also specializes in freaking out his neighborhood by dictating these stories into his phone while jogging before dawn. 

About 'We the Future'

Ever since he learned about climate change, Jonah dreads a weather-beaten future where not even his asthma medication can save him. Luckily, a girl from that future arrives just in time to throw Jonah a lifeline. Sunny traveled back to the 2020s with a mission: Help Jonah launch a climate strike big enough to rewrite history. To do it, he’ll have to recruit his entire school before Halloween. Why so soon? Sunny won’t say. But how can Jonah win over 600 classmates when the only thing he dreads more than the end of the world is talking to other kids?

​The debut novel by Cliff Lewis is a compelling introduction to climate science for any young reader unlikely to binge-read the latest report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. But, at its heart, We the Future is about more than the climate. It's about the practical steps that everyday kids can take to organize themselves for real world change.

Make sure to check out the NEW Dtalkspodcast.com website!

Thanks to Empire Toys for this episode of the podcast!

AND Thanks to Self Unbound for this episode of the podcast:

What do you do when you're stuck inside due to a pandemic taking place across the world? You explore the woods near your house with your faithful canine companion!

And what do you do once you've explored those woods? Write a book about it!

In this episode of the podcast Joe welcomes legendary author, M.T. Anderson to the show to discuss his latest book "Elf Dog & Owl Head". A fiction youth book he wrote during COVID about his experiences exploring the woods with his dog. 

M.T. and Joe get into a discussion about literature, helping to shape future leaders through literature, and some advice for aspiring authors (among many other exciting topics)

Enjoy!

About M.T. Anderson

M. T. Anderson has written stories for adults, picture books for children, adventure novels for young readers, graphic novel adaptations of ancient French tales, and several books for older readers (both teens and adults). His satirical book Feed was a Finalist for the National Book Award and was the winner of the L.A. Times Book Prize. Both Time Magazine and National Public Radio have included it on their lists of the best 100 YA novels of all time. Another satirical science fiction novel, Landscape with Invisible Hand, has been turned into a movie starring Tiffany Haddish and Asante Blackk.

Anderson was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and was raised in the nearby town of Stow. He has a BA from Cambridge University in England and an MFA in Creative Writing from Syracuse University. For many years he taught at Vermont College of the Fine Arts. He is a lifelong New Englander and lives in a small, haunted 18th century house in the hills of Vermont. 

About 'Elf Dog & Owl Head':

Clay has had his fill of home life. A global plague has brought the world to a screeching halt, and with little to look forward to but a summer of video-calling friends, vying with annoying sisters for the family computer, and tuning out his parents’ financial worries, he’s only too happy to retreat to the woods. From the moment the elegant little dog with the ornate collar appears like an apparition among the trees, Clay sees something uncanny in her. With this mysterious Elphinore as guide, he’ll glimpse ancient secrets folded all but invisibly into the forest. Each day the dog leads Clay down paths he never knew existed, deeper into the unknown. But they aren’t alone in their surreal adventures. There are traps and terrors in the woods, too, and if Clay isn’t careful, he might stray off the path and lose his way forever. Graced with evocative black-and-white illustrations by Junyi Wu, Elf Dog and Owl Head is heartfelt and exhilarating, wry and poignant, seamlessly merging the fantastic and the familiar in a tale both timely and timeless.

Make sure to check out the NEW Dtalkspodcast.com website!

Thanks to Empire Toys for this episode of the podcast!

AND Thanks to Self Unbound for this episode of the podcast:

**INTRODUCING A NEW DTALKS PODCAST PRODUCTION: '25 FOR 25'**

In Chapter II: "We liked to win" former starting goalkeeper Jeff Cassar shares his stories of playing for the Miami Fusion. Jeff started in net 25 years ago for the Fusion's first-ever game. Having been one of only a handful of players who were in Miami all 4 seasons, Jeff has a unique perspective on the trajectory of the team.

In this episode, Jeff shares his perspective on what it was like to play soccer in South Florida, what it meant to be part of that Supporter's Shield winning season, and how he helped mentor a young goalie by the name of Nick Rimando all the way up to an eventual MLS Cup Championship performance with Real Salt Lake in 2009.

Enjoy!

25 years ago, on March 15, 1998, the Miami Fusion kicked off their opening game in MLS' 3rd season, becoming one of the 2 expansion teams in this ever-growing professional league.

In 2001, despite putting together one of the best seasons in MLS history (at that point and arguably since), MLS made the decision to fold both the Fusion and their Florida neighbors, the MLS original franchise, Tampa Bay Mutiny.

While MLS soccer has returned to Miami in the form of David Beckham's Inter Miami, much has been discussed of "what could've been?" Had the Miami Fusion been allowed to stay and build. Indeed, what WOULD a Miami Fusion look like in 2023?

This podcast tells the story of the Miami Fusion through the voices of those who actually lived it. 25 interviews across 25 episodes charting the good, the bad, and the unbelievable.

You can subscribe directly to '25 for 25' wherever you get your podcasts or here - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/25-for-25-the-story-of-the-miami-fusion-from-those-who-lived-it/id1676374237

How incredible would it be if you would work on a project with one of your closest friends? How incredible would it be if that friend were your brother? How cooler still if the project was a book based on your own adventures growing up?

That's the case with the guests on the latest episode of The DTALKS Podcast. Jarrett & Jerome Pumphrey have been working on books for years and only recently were able to show the world what a dynamic duo they are. They're publishing the books they wish they had growing up and telling the stories they want to tell.

Our conversation on the podcast covered their backgrounds in writing & illustrating, the decision to make their latest book a "part comic/part written word" book, and what's next.

Enjoy!

About Jarrett & Jerome Pumphrey

Jarrett is an award-winning author-illustrator. He makes books for kids with his brother, Jerome. Their books include It’s a Sign!, Somewhere in the Bayou, The Old Boat, and their author-illustrator debut, The Old Truck, which received seven starred reviews, was named a Best Book of the Year by Publishers Weekly, and received the Ezra Jack Keats New Author Honor.

Jerome is a designer, illustrator, and writer, originally from Houston, TX. He studied graphic design at the Art Institute of Austin and has worked as a technical writer, freelance graphic designer, and illustrator.

About Link + Hud: Heroes by a Hair

Meet Link and Hud―brothers causing chaos in the first of a new middle grade series from real-life brothers Jarrett and Jerome Pumphrey.

Lincoln and Hudson Dupré are brothers with what grown-ups call “active imaginations.” Link and Hud hunt for yetis in the Himalayas and battle orcs on epic quests. Unfortunately, their imaginary adventures wreak havoc in their real world. Dr. and Mrs. Dupré have tried every babysitter in the neighborhood and are at their wits’ end.

Enter Ms. Joyce. Strict and old-fashioned, she proves to be a formidable adversary. The boys don’t like her or her rules and decide she’s got to go. Through a series of escalating events―told as high-action comic panel sequences―the brothers conspire to undermine Ms. Joyce and get her fired. When they go so big that even Ms. Joyce can’t fix it, suddenly she’s out. Finally, success! Or is it?

With warm and authentic humor, Jarrett and Jerome Pumphrey have blended prose and graphic novel-style illustrations to craft a unique and subversive new series full of brotherly mischief and mayhem.

Make sure to check out the NEW Dtalkspodcast.com website!

Thanks to Empire Toys for this episode of the podcast!

AND Thanks to Self Unbound for this episode of the podcast:

**INTRODUCING A NEW DTALKS PODCAST PRODUCTION: '25 FOR 25'**

25 years ago, on March 15, 1998, the Miami Fusion kicked off their opening game in MLS' 3rd season, becoming one of the 2 expansion teams in this ever-growing professional league.

In 2001, despite putting together one of the best seasons in MLS history (at that point and arguably since), MLS made the decision to fold both the Fusion and their Florida neighbors, the MLS original franchise, Tampa Bay Mutiny.

While MLS soccer has returned to Miami in the form of David Beckham's Inter Miami, much has been discussed of "what could've been?" Had the Miami Fusion been allowed to stay and build. Indeed, what WOULD a Miami Fusion look like in 2023?

This podcast tells the story of the Miami Fusion through the voices of those who actually lived it. 25 interviews across 25 episodes charting the good, the bad, and the unbelievable.

In Chapter I: "You're the worst coach I've ever had" former captain Jim Rooney shares his perspective on playing for the Miami Fusion. Despite not being an original member of the squad, Rooney immediately asserted himself as the de facto captain from the moment he stepped on the pitch.

In this episode, Jim shares his perspective on why Miami were ahead of their team, what it was like to be coached by Ray Hudson, and the behind the scenes details of THAT iconic sports bra goal celebration moment from the 2001 MLS All-Star game.

Enjoy!

You can subscribe directly to '25 for 25' wherever you get your podcasts or here - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/25-for-25-the-story-of-the-miami-fusion-from-those-who-lived-it/id1676374237

Are you looking for light in the darkness? 

Are you having a difficult time forging a path forward?

Do you need to be reminded that you're not alone?

In today's episode of the podcast Reverend Otis Moss III stops by the podcast to discuss his latest book "Dancing in the Darkness: Spiritual Lessons for Thriving in Turbulent Times." 

Joe and the Reverend get into a detailed conversation about various aspects of his book and specific lessons all people can take comfort in as we continue on this path to make a more inclusive world.

Enjoy!

About Otis Moss III

With civil rights advocacy in his DNA, Rev. Dr. Otis Moss III built his ministry on community advancement and social justice activism. As Senior Pastor of Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago, Illinois, Dr. Moss spent the last two decades practicing and preaching a Black theology that unapologetically calls attention to the problems of mass incarceration, environmental justice, and economic inequality.

With a unique gift to communicate across generations, Dr. Moss’ creative Bible-based messages have inspired young and old alike. His intergenerational preaching gift has made Dr. Moss a popular speaker on college campuses, at conferences, and churches across the globe. He is highly influenced by the works of Zora Neale Hurston, August Wilson, Howard Thurman, Jazz, and Hip-Hop music. The work and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and the pastoral ministry of his father, Rev. Dr. Otis Moss, Jr. of Cleveland, Ohio, have been primary mentors for his spiritual formation.

About Dancing in the Darkness

Dancing in the Darkness is a life-affirming guide to the practical, political, and spiritual challenges of our day. Drawing on the teachings of Dr. King, Howard Thurman, sacred scripture, southern wisdom, global spiritual traditions, Black culture, and his own personal experiences, Dr. Moss instructs you on how to practice spiritual resistance by combining justice and love. This collection helps us tap the spiritual reserves we all possess but too often overlook, so we can slay our personal demon, confront our civic challenges, and reach our highest goals.

Why are there "Ice Bats" in Austin, TX!?

Where is there Ice Hockey in El Paso!?

How did this wild and crazy idea of minor league hockey in Texas come to be and who was there to document it all!?

In comes this week's guest, Jason Cohen. Jason literally wrote the book on minor league hockey in Texas with a book titled "Zamboni Rodeo". In this episode Joe and Jason cover Jason's background in journalism, how he made his way to Texas, and why he spent a season following around this lovable team of misfits for a year.

Enjoy!

About Jason Cohen

Writer at large and former senior editor Jason Cohen has written for Texas Monthly since 1995 (and texasmonthly.com since its first iteration). His 1997 story “The Ice Bats Cometh,” about minor league hockey in Texas, was the basis of his book Zamboni Rodeo (Greystone Press, 2001). He also wrote the magazine's first-ever Matthew McConaughey story, in August 1996. The coauthor of Generation Ecch! (Fireside Books, 1994) and coeditor of SXSW Scrapbook (Essex/University of Texas Press, 2011), he has also written for such publications as Rolling Stone, SPIN, Details, the Austin Chronicle, the Austin American-Statesman, Portland Monthly, and Cincinnati magazine. His 1995 Rolling Stone cover story on the band Hole prompted Courtney Love to yell at him from the stage at Lollapalooza in Austin, while his 2007 profile of the Portland strip club Mary's won a Sex-Positive Journalism Award. As one of the two primary writers for the TM Daily Post, Cohen wrote approximately five hundred stories for Texas Monthly in 2012. He has been a blogger since 2002 and has been known to maintain as many as five Twitter accounts.

About Zamboni Rodeo

What do you do after you retire from over 40 years in the entertainment business!? You start a podcast about the entertainment business!

Seriously though, both Fritz Coleman & Louise Palanker are storytellers at hear and love guiding listeners down the Media Path each and every week on their podcast. They explore various themes and resources all in an attempt to help listeners understand the world better.

Enjoy!

About Fritz & Louise

“And now, here’s Fritz Coleman with the weather.”  

For nearly four decades, Los Angelenos came to know and love Fritz Coleman through his gig as the weather reporter on KNBC, where his affable demeanor (honed in his early years of stand-up comedy) made him a staple of local news.  But when he retired from his weather gig two years ago, Coleman knew he wasn’t done working.  “That 11 o’clock news kept me from a lot of things,” he recalls.  “Now I could do all those things that massage my soul, be curious more, and discover more.”

That’s the impetus behind MEDIA PATH PODCAST, co-hosted by Fritz and Louise Palanker, veteran radio producer and documentarian.  With 100 episodes released so far, MEDIA PATH is a look back at what has defined our media for the past half-century.  With guests as eclectic as Congressional leader Adam Schiff, television legend Henry Winkler, Grammy winning songwriter Diane Warren, and “Double Dare” host Marc Summers, each week is a journey down a new path of remembering, learning, and reevaluating our shared memories and histories.

Every show includes discussion of current cultural events and recommendations from the hosts, as well as extended, deep-dive discussions with figures who have had meaningful and memorable impact on the media world we experience.  While many of the subjects will be familiar to Baby Boomers and Gen X’ers, the spirit of inquisitiveness, curiosity, and sharing that Fritz and Louise bring to each episode will ring familiar to newer generations who may be hearing about these subjects, people, and stories for the first time.  

For Louise Palanker, who has been producing radio entertainment for decades and successful podcasts since 2005, that sense of serious and thoughtful discovery and discussion is what drives the podcast:  “We can rediscover the things that matter to us and celebrate what we love.”  For Coleman, the show is a new way for him to share his passion and curiosity about the world in the same charitable spirit that earned him Congressional recognition as “Humanitarian of the Year” for his work with the American Red Cross.  “It’s a great release valve of the pent-up energy from forty years of weather reporting,” he says. 

And now – back to you Fritz and Louise, for more journeys on the MEDIA PATH.

Make sure to check out the NEW Dtalkspodcast.com website!

Thanks to Empire Toys for this episode of the podcast!

AND Thanks to Self Unbound for this episode of the podcast:

Are you wrestling with your faith practice? Do you wish you felt at peace everytime you went to a place of worship? Are you a member of the LGBTQ+ community AND a practicing Christian who is seeking their own unique place in this world? 

Have we got the episode for you!

In this episode of the podcast Joe welcomes Rolf R. Nolasco Jr. on the show to discuss his book 'Hearts Ablaze: Parables for the Queer Soul'. Joe and Rolf get into a great discussion on the origins of the book, how the contents can resonate with so many different people, and why Rolf still practices his religion even in the face of opposition.

Enjoy!

About Rolf R. Nolasco Jr.

Dr. Rolf R. Nolasco, Jr. is Rueben P. Job Professor of Spiritual Formation and Pastoral Theology at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston, Il USA. As a queer person of color whose country of origin is the Philippines, Rolf works at the intersection of critical and liberative psychology, theology, spirituality, and affective neuroscience to address the complexity of the human condition and the potential for human flourishing. He is the author of The Contemplative Counselor: A Way of Being, Compassionate Presence: A Radical Response to Human Sufferings, and God’s Beloved Queer.

About Hears Ablaze

A new look at ten selected parables of Jesus, that expands the scope of interpretation of each story to highlight God's extravagant welcome of all people. The perspective in the reflections is deeply personal and written to be used by both individuals and groups. Queer affirming churches, seminaries, and retreat centers will benefit from this resource as they continue to champion the flourishing of their queer siblings in Christ.

Make sure to check out the NEW Dtalkspodcast.com website!

Thanks to Empire Toys for this episode of the podcast!

AND Thanks to Self Unbound for this episode of the podcast:

Are you ready to Rise and Shine!? 

This week's guest sure knows how to exactly that as we welcome 2010 USMNT World Cup Veteran Jay DeMerit to the podcast to discuss his career!

There was a documentary made about Jay's career called 'Rise and Shine: The Jay DeMerit Story'. It chronicles his life and career showing how, through hard work and effort, Jay was able to work his way up the English Football pyramid to captain Watford in the English Premier League AND become one of the starting centerbacks for the United States in the 2010 World Cup!

It's an incredible story and Jay was an absolute delight to have on the podcast, enjoy!

About Jay DeMerit

Jay DeMerit’s story reads like those of many American players who tried to launch a professional career between the end of the North American Soccer League and the beginning of Major League Soccer. DeMerit took his game to England. After several tryouts and time spent playing park and pub soccer, DeMerit got his shot and ended up playing in the Premier League. Just one difference, DeMerit’s story starts in 2003.

A successful college player, DeMerit couldn’t catch on with any MLS club, spending a year with the Chicago Fire reserves. Holding a European passport, he decided to move to England and try there. As decisions go…. A 2004 training game against Watford got him a contract and the next season he was crucial to the squad that won promotion to the Premier League. By 2007, he was on the USMNT and made the 2010 World Cup squad.

DeMerit left Watford at the end of the 2010 season, signing with 2011 MLS expansion club Vancouver.

In the Fall of 2011, a movie about DeMerit’s move to England and eventual rise to prominence as a Premier League player was released. Titled Rise & Shine: The Jay DeMerit Story, the movie was partially funded by fans through a Kickstarter campaign.

Jay DeMerit announced his retirement on July 24, 2014. He finished his Vancouver Whitecaps tenure with 70 appearances and one goal.

Make sure to check out the NEW Dtalkspodcast.com website!

Thanks to Empire Toys for this episode of the podcast!

AND Thanks to Self Unbound for this episode of the podcast: