Episodes

  • Author Interview with Bitsy Kemper
    Nov 26 2024

    Author Bio
    Author of soon-to-be 25 books, odds are you've seen Bitsy Kemper on CNN, heard her on national CBS radio, seen her quoted in everything from Parenting Magazine to "Writing Children's Books for Dummies" or read her work in countless newspapers, radio and TV stations across the U.S. Maybe you drove past her on the freeway and didn't even know it...

    She earned two undergraduate degrees (one in Economics/Marketing, one in Communication/Theatre) and a master's degree in business (M.B.A.). Learning is fun!

    After spending entirely too much time of her early career in the computer industry as a PR and Marketing manager, she helped create and drive a national program to help parents feel less afraid of technology. When blessed with mommyhood, she focused on the family. She's been writing for children ever since her kids became obsessed with the frog living in the discarded pink sneaker outside their front door (honestly, some books write themselves).

    "Mommy & Me Micro-Moments: 5-Minute Devotional Activities for Moms and Kids" is her latest book, and the one of her heart. The more people buy it, the more likely she'll write Part 2! (hint hint) (ha ha)

    Find more detail than you need at BotsyKemper.com.

    Her bio can be summed up in two words: "Write on!"

    Connect with Bitsy Kemper
    Website

    Timestamps
    00:15 Introduction
    2:22 Could you tell us what your books are about?
    3:25 What inspired you to write your book?
    5:05 Who is your book for?
    6:01 How long have you been writing?
    8:19 What is your schedule like when you are writing?
    10:10 What do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?
    10:40 Do you have a favorite writing snack or drink?
    11:27 What type of books do you personally enjoy reading?
    12:08 Are there any books or authors that inspired you to become an author?
    14:12 What books did you grow up reading? Did you have an all-time favorite?
    15:28 Now as an adult do you have any favorite series or authors?
    18:18 What advice would you give someone just starting to read again?
    19:53 What advice would you offer to someone just starting to write their own book?
    25:10 Any additional comments?
    27:07 Where is the best place for readers to connect with you?

    Links

    Support the Podcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ripollsworkshop

    Newsletter https://mailchi.mp/30a7be3e81ef/69wqrzezob

    Follow us

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Podcast Instagram https://instagram.com/ripollsworkshopreadspodcast?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Website https://www.ripollsworkshopreads.com/about-contact

    Ripollsworkshop Reads YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ripollsworkshopreads

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ripollsworkshopreads

    Our Host Courtney Ripoll-McBride https://www.instagram.com/theripollsworkshop/

    Music Created/Episode Mastered By: Patrick McBride https://www.instagram.com/patmcbride_bass

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    29 mins
  • Author Interview with Amelie Anastasia Kurshuk
    Nov 21 2024

    Author Bio
    Amelie is passionate about writing and supporting animals, from wildlife to shelter pets looking for homes. Amelie uses her writing talent to bring attention to the lives of animals from the wild woods of her Fox Tales to the Animal Shelters that may just be taking care of your new best friend!

    Amelie is also passionate about encouraging other young people to embrace the power of their voices. She started her own podcast, What's Up Young Authors! to help showcase the work of other young authors and encourage them to write, publish and promote their work!

    Connect with Amelie Anastasia Kurshuk
    Website
    Amazon

    Timestamps
    00:15 Introduction
    00:31 I would love if you could tell me what your books are about?
    1:09 What inspired you to write your books?
    1:37 Who are your books for?
    1:59 How long have you been writing?
    2:39 What is your schedule like when you are writing?
    3:02 Is there anything you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?
    3:15 Do you have a favorite writing snack or drink?
    3:47 What type of books do you personally enjoy reading?
    4:14 Are there any books or authors that inspired you to become an author?
    4:45 What books did you grow up reading? Did you have any all-time favorites?
    5:41 Do you have any advice for someone just starting to read?
    6:17 What sort of advice would you offer to someone starting to write their own book?
    7:39 Any additional comments?
    8:36 Where is the best place for readers to find your books?

    Links

    Support the Podcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ripollsworkshop

    Newsletter https://mailchi.mp/30a7be3e81ef/69wqrzezob

    Follow us

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Podcast Instagram https://instagram.com/ripollsworkshopreadspodcast?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Website https://www.ripollsworkshopreads.com/about-contact

    Ripollsworkshop Reads YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ripollsworkshopreads

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ripollsworkshopreads

    Our Host Courtney Ripoll-McBride https://www.instagram.com/theripollsworkshop/

    Music Created/Episode Mastered By: Patrick McBride https://www.instagram.com/patmcbride_bass

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    10 mins
  • Author Interview with Andy Semotiuk
    Nov 20 2024

    Author Bio
    Andriy Semotiuk is a writer, lawyer, and former U.N. correspondent recognized for his compelling stories about immigration and human rights. He is the author of four books, including the award-winning Solomea: Star of Opera's Golden Age, which chronicles the life and legacy of his great aunt, the renowned soprano Solomea Krushelnytska.

    As a Forbes contributor for over 10 years, Andriy's articles on immigration have been read by over one million readers. He is a member of the New York and California bars in the U.S., as well as Ontario and British Columbia in Canada. Andriy practices U.S. and Canadian immigration law at Pace Law Firm in Toronto and is a Senior Advisor to the Centre for Eastern European Democracy.

    A father and grandfather, Andriy currently resides in Toronto with his wife.

    Connect with Andy Semotiuk
    Website
    Amazon
    SoloMea Book

    Links

    Support the Podcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ripollsworkshop

    Newsletter https://mailchi.mp/30a7be3e81ef/69wqrzezob

    Follow us

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Podcast Instagram https://instagram.com/ripollsworkshopreadspodcast?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Website https://www.ripollsworkshopreads.com/about-contact

    Ripollsworkshop Reads YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ripollsworkshopreads

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ripollsworkshopreads

    Our Host Courtney Ripoll-McBride https://www.instagram.com/theripollsworkshop/

    Music Created/Episode Mastered By: Patrick McBride https://www.instagram.com/patmcbride_bass

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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Author Interview with Andy N.
    Nov 19 2024

    Author Bio

    Andy N is the author of ten poetry collections, the last being ‘Changing Carriages at Birmingham New Street’ and the co-host of Chorlton (UK)'s Spoken Word night ‘Speak Easy’.

    He also does ambient music under the name of Ocean in a Bottle and does the music

    for the band ‘Polly Ocean' and runs / co-runs Podcasts such as Spoken Label and Not the TV Guide.

    His debut novel is ‘Birth’. (Described as a charming coming of age Novel about the birth of a Writer – available on Amazon). He is currently working on the sequel to this ‘Death’ and ‘Ghosts’, his next poetry book among other projects.

    Occasionally he does like to sleep.

    Connect with Andy N.
    LinkTree
    Amazon

    Timestamps
    00:15 Intro
    1:06 What are your books about?
    1:58 What inspired you to write your book?
    2:58 Who is your book for?
    3:52 How long have you been writing?
    4:56 What is your schedule like when you are writing?
    5:50 What do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?
    7:09 Do you have a favorite writing snack or drink?
    7:39 What type of books do you personally enjoy reading?
    8:39 Are there any books or authors that inspired you to become an author?
    9:26 What books did you grow up reading, did you have an all-time favorite?
    10:34 Now as an adult what is your favorite series or authors?
    11:41 Do you have any advice for someone just starting to read again?
    12:52 What sort of advice would you offer to someone just starting to write a book?
    15:32 Any additional comments?
    16:14 Where is the best place for our listeners to connect with you?

    Links

    Support the Podcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ripollsworkshop

    Newsletter https://mailchi.mp/30a7be3e81ef/69wqrzezob

    Follow us

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Podcast Instagram https://instagram.com/ripollsworkshopreadspodcast?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Website https://www.ripollsworkshopreads.com/about-contact

    Ripollsworkshop Reads YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ripollsworkshopreads

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ripollsworkshopreads

    Our Host Courtney Ripoll-McBride https://www.instagram.com/theripollsworkshop/

    Music Created/Episode Mastered By: Patrick McBride https://www.instagram.com/patmcbride_bass

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    19 mins
  • Author Interview with A.B. Herron
    Nov 17 2024

    Author Bio
    A.B. Herron is a dyslexic Indy author who resides in the Pacific Northwest where her Elemental Wolf novels take place. Mingling her studies in anatomy and Zoology, she intertwines science and magic to creative effect while plundering the forests for inspiration. Featured in a Worldsmyths Anthology, Seasons Unceasing, Herron indulged in pure fantasy writing before returning to the Urban Fantasy world where her Elemental Wolf series thrives.

    Working full time Herron writes in the cracks between responsibilities, and plays with dogs because she just can’t help herself.

    Connect with A.B. Herron
    Website

    Timestamps
    00:15 Introduction
    1:00 What are your books about?
    4:42 What inspired you to write your books?
    7:16 Who are your books for?
    8:05 How long have you been writing?
    8:55 What is your schedule like when you are writing a book?
    9:49 What do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?
    10:41 Do you have a favorite writing snack or drink?
    11:27 What type of books do you personally enjoy reading?
    12:38 Are there any books or authors that inspired you to become an author?
    14:04 What books did you grow up reading? Did you have an all-time favorite?
    14:37 Now as an adult do you have any favorite authors or series?
    15:30 What would you tell someone just starting to read again?
    16:44 What sort of advice would you offer to someone writing their own book?
    18:17 Any additional comments?
    19:16 Where is the best place for our listeners to connect with you?

    Links

    Support the Podcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ripollsworkshop

    Newsletter https://mailchi.mp/30a7be3e81ef/69wqrzezob

    Follow us

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Podcast Instagram https://instagram.com/ripollsworkshopreadspodcast?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Website https://www.ripollsworkshopreads.com/about-contact

    Ripollsworkshop Reads YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ripollsworkshopreads

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ripollsworkshopreads

    Our Host Courtney Ripoll-McBride https://www.instagram.com/theripollsworkshop/

    Music Created/Episode Mastered By: Patrick McBride https://www.instagram.com/patmcbride_bass

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    21 mins
  • Author Interview with Ellie Shoja
    Nov 16 2024

    Author Bio
    Ellie Shoja is an award-winning writer, mindset expert, and motivational speaker, whose passion for uplifting and empowering others is at the root of everything she creates. She is the founder of Peace Unleashed and the co-host of the Unleash Your Peace podcast. She's the author of the Your Heart Knows The Way oracle deck, the Channeled Writing Journal, and The 13th Planet.

    As a person with an unconventional and volatile childhood who lived on three continents and spoke five languages before the age of 15, Ellie’s personal story is a riveting tale of perseverance in the face of adversity. From Turkey to Germany to Iran to the United States, the stabilizing through-line in her life has been her love for exploring what it truly means to be human. Her innate understanding of storytelling and fascination with the human condition are at the root of Ellie's love for bringing unique concepts, stories and ideas to life.

    Connect with Ellie Shoja
    Website

    Timestamps
    00:15 Introduction
    1:34 What are your books about?
    2:57 What inspired you to write your book?
    4:40 Who is your book for?
    5:38 How long have you been writing?
    8:34 What is your schedule when writing a book?
    11:34 What do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?
    14:56 What is your favorite writing snack or drink?
    16:19 What type of books do you personally enjoy reading?
    22:20 What books did you grow up reading? Did you have all-time favorite?
    24:10 Now as an adult what are some of your favorite books or authors?
    26:11 Do you have any advice for someone just starting to read again?
    29:55 What advice would you give to someone just starting to write their own book?
    35:27 Any additional comments?
    35:49 Where is the best place to connect with you?

    Links

    Support the Podcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ripollsworkshop

    Newsletter https://mailchi.mp/30a7be3e81ef/69wqrzezob

    Follow us

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Podcast Instagram https://instagram.com/ripollsworkshopreadspodcast?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Website https://www.ripollsworkshopreads.com/about-contact

    Ripollsworkshop Reads YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ripollsworkshopreads

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ripollsworkshopreads

    Our Host Courtney Ripoll-McBride https://www.instagram.com/theripollsworkshop/

    Music Created/Episode Mastered By: Patrick McBride https://www.instagram.com/patmcbride_bass

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    38 mins
  • Author Interview with Gin Griffith
    Nov 15 2024

    Author Bio
    The real world is boring. Gin prefers the realm of fantasy, where heroes smolder, heroines kick ass, magic is real, and love conquers all.

    When she's not writing paranormal romance, she's usually reading it. Otherwise, you can find her singing in her modern-vintage lounge band, enjoying good food and cocktails, or training to be a superhero in her home gym.

    Connect with Gin Griffith
    Website

    Timestamps
    00:15 Introduction
    00:33 What are your books about?
    2:06 What inspired you to write your books?
    4:18 Who are your books for?
    5:01 How long have you been a writer?
    6:10 What is your schedule like when you are writing a book?
    10:24 What do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?
    13:05 What books do you personally enjoy reading?
    14:57 Are there any books or authors that inspired you to become an author?
    18:32 What books did you grow up reading?
    19:24 Now as an adult do you have any favorite series or authors?
    21:34 What would you tell someone just starting to read again?
    22:52 What would you tell someone just starting to write their own book/
    24:55 Any additional comments?
    25:30 Where is the best place for our listeners to connect with you?

    Links

    Support the Podcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ripollsworkshop

    Newsletter https://mailchi.mp/30a7be3e81ef/69wqrzezob

    Follow us

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Podcast Instagram https://instagram.com/ripollsworkshopreadspodcast?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Website https://www.ripollsworkshopreads.com/about-contact

    Ripollsworkshop Reads YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ripollsworkshopreads

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ripollsworkshopreads

    Our Host Courtney Ripoll-McBride https://www.instagram.com/theripollsworkshop/

    Music Created/Episode Mastered By: Patrick McBride https://www.instagram.com/patmcbride_bass

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    28 mins
  • Author Interview with Rebecca Bratspies
    Nov 14 2024

    Author Bio
    Rebecca Bratspies lives with her cats, teenager and husband in Astoria Queens. When not geeking out about New York City history, Rebecca is a professor at CUNY School of Law. A scholar of environmental justice and human rights, Rebecca has written scores of law review articles; five books (including Naming Gotham: the Villains, Rogues, and Heroes Behind New York Place Names); and three environmental justice comic books (with Charlie LaGreca Velasco). She serves on NYC’s Environmental Justice Advisory Board and EPA’s Children’s Health Protection Advisory Committee and is a scholar with the Center for Progressive Reform and a member of the NYC Bar Environmental Committee. ABA-SEER honored her work with its Commitment to Diversity and Justice Award.

    Connect with Rebecca Bratspies
    Website
    Amazon

    Timestamps
    00:15 Introduction
    00:36 What are your books about?
    1:55 What inspired you to write your books?
    3:19 Who are your books for?
    5:47 How long have you been writing?
    6:43 What is your schedule when you are writing a book?
    8:45 What do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?
    9:43 Do you have a favorite writing snack or drink?
    10:22 What type of books do you personally enjoy reading?
    11:18 Are there any books or authors that inspired you to become an author?
    12:41 What books did you grow up reading? Did you have an all-time favorite?
    13:39 Now as an adult, do you have a favorite series or author?
    14:54 What would you tell someone just starting to read again?
    15:31 What advice would you give to someone just starting to write their own book?
    17:29 Any additional comments?
    18:30 Where is the best place for our listeners to connect with you?

    Links

    Support the Podcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ripollsworkshop

    Newsletter https://mailchi.mp/30a7be3e81ef/69wqrzezob

    Follow us

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Podcast Instagram https://instagram.com/ripollsworkshopreadspodcast?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Website https://www.ripollsworkshopreads.com/about-contact

    Ripollsworkshop Reads YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ripollsworkshopreads

    Ripollsworkshop Reads Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ripollsworkshopreads

    Our Host Courtney Ripoll-McBride https://www.instagram.com/theripollsworkshop/

    Music Created/Episode Mastered By: Patrick McBride https://www.instagram.com/patmcbride_bass

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    21 mins