Vermont Artists & Authors

(Episode 67): Unearthing Roots and Rituals in Kim Ward's 'Fire on a Circle

StorycomicPresents #KimWard #FireOnACircle #Poetry #PlaywrightsCircle #Survival #SelfDiscovery #AncestralConnection #VermontPoetry #PaganPractice #SpiritualExploration #FreeVerse #NordicPoetry #LiteraryArt #VermontArtists
Dive into the poetic world with Episode 347 of Storycomic Presents, where host Barney Smith is honored to host Kim Ward, a poet, playwright, and the visionary founder of the Vermont Playwrights Circle. Celebrating the release of her debut poetry collection "Fire on a Circle," Kim takes us on a journey through her verses that span the realms of survival, self-discovery, and a profound connection to her ancestors and the verdant landscape of Vermont.
"Fire on a Circle" is more than a poetry book; it's a deep exploration of life's fires — the challenges we face to become our true selves. Crafted with care in free verse, verse monologue, and ancient Nordic formats, Kim's poems resonate with sharp discoveries about the dangers of the world and the passion for connection. Supported by years of poetic and runic studies, this collection intertwines tales of her family's matriarchs, battles against addiction, and pagan practices, presenting a rich tapestry of spiritual exploration.
In this episode, Kim shares the inspiration behind her poignant work, reflecting on the power of poetry to traverse the fires of existence and emerge with a deeper understanding of oneself. Join us as we delve into discussions of Kim's artistic journey, her contributions to Vermont's literary scene, and the impactful themes woven throughout "Fire on a Circle."
Discover more about Kim Ward and immerse yourself in her poetic universe at Kim Ward's Website.
The Title sequence was designed and created by Morgan Quaid. See more of Morgan’s Work at: https://morganquaid.com/
Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory GiordanoSee more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/
Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started:https://www.podbean.com/storycomic
Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.comwww.patreon.com/storycomicwww.facebook.com/storycomic1https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/https://twitter.com/storycomic1For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com 
Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at:https://marekbennett.com/https://www.hexapus-ink.com/https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/https://www.vonallan.com/https://higgins802.com/https://shewstone.com/Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

(Episode 66): Mary Elder Jacobsen’s 'Stonechat': A Tapestry of Human Emotion

#StorycomicPresents #MaryElderJacobsen #Stonechat #Poetry #NaturalWorld #Family #Grief #Joy #HumanNature #PoeticForms #LiteraryArt #NaturePoetry #VermontPoets  #EmotionalLandscapeHost Barney Smith is delighted to welcome Mary Elder Jacobsen, a poet, illustrator, and revered coordinator for the Words Out Loud Fall Reading Series. In this episode, we dive into Mary's debut poetry collection, "Stonechat," published by Rootstock Publishing. Mary's evocative poetry weaves a rich tapestry of themes, including family, grief, joy, and profound connections with the natural world.
The Title sequence was designed and created by Morgan Quaid. See more of Morgan’s Work at: https://morganquaid.com/
Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory GiordanoSee more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/
Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started:https://www.podbean.com/storycomic
Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.comwww.patreon.com/storycomicwww.facebook.com/storycomic1https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/https://twitter.com/storycomic1For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com 
Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at:https://marekbennett.com/https://www.hexapus-ink.com/https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/https://www.vonallan.com/https://higgins802.com/https://shewstone.com/Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!
"Stonechat" spans a range of poetic forms from sonnets to villanelles, exploring the delicate balance between everyday moments and the grandeur of the natural world. Jacobsen's work captures the essence of human emotion and the beauty of life’s transitions, seamlessly blending personal narrative with universal truths.
Discover the poetic landscapes that Mary portrays in her collection, where each poem serves as a window into her soulful engagements with life's intricate tapestries. This episode is a journey through the lyrical world of Mary Elder Jacobsen, where every verse resonates with the clarity and depth of her artistic vision.
Learn more about Mary and her multifaceted career at Mary Elder Jacobsen’s Official Site.

(Episode 65): From Honolulu to Hanover: The Literary Journey of Marjorie Matthews

#StorycomicPresents #MarjorieMatthews #TheRedWheelbarrow #LiteraryFiction #ArtTransforms #CreativeHealing #PoetryAndPainting #LossAndGrief #AuthenticSelves #QuietStories #PowerOfArt #LiteraryJourney #HopeEndures #BookLovers #NewHampshireWriters
In Episode 342 of Storycomic Presents, we're thrilled to welcome Marjorie Nelson Matthews, the distinguished author celebrated for her deeply moving narratives. Born and raised in the vibrant landscapes of Honolulu and currently residing in Hanover, New Hampshire, Matthews's literary journey has captivated audiences with its profound exploration of human emotions and the healing power of art. Join host Barney Smith as we delve into her latest novel, 'The Red Wheelbarrow,' a poignant tale that interweaves the lives of Amy Barnes and Paul Rideau, each navigating the complexities of loss, grief, and the pursuit of their creative passions.
'The Red Wheelbarrow' not only offers readers a narrative enriched by authentic, relatable characters but also serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, underscored by love, decency, and the enduring hope that art can indeed transform lives. This episode promises an in-depth look at Matthews's inspirations, her writing process, and how her roots have influenced her storytelling.
Discover more about Marjorie Nelson Matthews and her literary works that continue to inspire and move readers by visiting https://marjorienelsonmatthews.com/.
The Title sequence was designed and created by Morgan Quaid. See more of Morgan’s Work at: https://morganquaid.com/
Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory GiordanoSee more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/
Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started:https://www.podbean.com/storycomic
Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.comwww.patreon.com/storycomicwww.facebook.com/storycomic1https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/https://twitter.com/storycomic1For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com 
Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at:https://marekbennett.com/https://www.hexapus-ink.com/https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/https://www.vonallan.com/https://higgins802.com/https://shewstone.com/Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

(Episode 64): Finding Hope on the Porch: A Conversation with Thomas Christopher Greene

#vermontauthors #ThomasChristopherGreene #NotesFromThePorch #Covid19Reflections #LiteraryHope #VermontStories #CommunitySpirit #FamilyBonds #PandemicDiaries #LoveOverAdversity #HumanResilience #AuthorInterviews #BookLovers #StorytellingMagic #VermontCollegeOfFineArts
In Vermont Artists & Authors, host Barney Smith is honored to feature Thomas Christopher Greene, a luminary in the literary world and the visionary founder of the Vermont College of Fine Arts. As an internationally acclaimed author, Greene's novels have captivated readers across the globe, transcending language and culture. Join us as we delve into his latest work, 'Notes from the Porch,' a collection of essays that emerged from the solitude of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Set against the backdrop of a small Vermont town, 'Notes from the Porch' is a reflective journey through the days of isolation, showcasing the unbreakable spirit of community, the simple joys of life, and the profound strength of family bonds. Through Greene's eyes, we witness the transformative power of storytelling and the undeniable force of love in overcoming adversity.
This episode offers a rare glimpse into Greene's creative process and his thoughts on how the pandemic has reshaped our understanding of connection and resilience. 'Notes from the Porch' is not just a book; it's a beacon of hope and a testament to the grandeur of the human heart.
For more about Thomas Christopher Greene and his impactful work, follow him on Instagram and Facebook @thomaschristophergreene.
Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory GiordanoSee more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/
Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started:https://www.podbean.com/storycomic
Follow us:
Are you curious to see the audio version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com
Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com
www.patreon.com/storycomicwww.facebook.com/storycomic1https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/https://twitter.com/storycomic1
For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com
Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at:
https://marekbennett.com/https://www.hexapus-ink.com/https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/https://www.vonallan.com/https://higgins802.com/https://shewstone.com/
Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

(Episode 63): C.O. Moed on Capturing New York’s Heart in ‘It Was Her New York'

#StorycomicPresents #COMoed #ItWasHerNewYork #NewYorkMemoir #TrueStories #DementiaAwareness #OldNewYork #MothersAndDaughters #LGBTQ #Gentrification #HiddenSexuality #PersonalEssays #Photography #Memoir #AgingParents #citytransformation 
In this thought-provoking episode of Storycomic Presents, host Barney Smith from storycomic.com proudly features C.O. Moed, the nationally acclaimed author of ‘It Was Her New York.’ Join us as we dive into the heart of New York City through Moed's eyes, exploring true stories and accidental snapshots that span undying love, the challenges of dementia, and the vibrancy of old lesbians, mothers & daughters against the backdrop of a rapidly changing city.
‘It Was Her New York’ emerges as a poignant memoir filled with personal essays and captivating full-color photographs detailing Moed's experiences caring for her mother, Florence—a broke, Juilliard-trained pianist navigating the complexities of dementia in the Lower East Side. This collection not only paints a vivid picture of familial bonds and the aging process but also delves into the gentrification of neighborhoods and the rediscovery of suppressed love and hidden sexuality.
For anyone who's ever witnessed the aging of a loved one, felt the sting of their neighborhood transforming, or stumbled upon love in the most unexpected places, this memoir offers a resonant narrative. Discover more about C.O. Moed and her remarkable journey at https://www.comoed.net/.
The Title sequence was designed and created by Morgan Quaid. See more of Morgan’s Work at: https://morganquaid.com/
Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory GiordanoSee more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/
Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started:https://www.podbean.com/storycomic
Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.comwww.patreon.com/storycomicwww.facebook.com/storycomic1https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/https://twitter.com/storycomic1For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com 
Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at:https://marekbennett.com/https://www.hexapus-ink.com/https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/https://www.vonallan.com/https://higgins802.com/Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

(Episode 62): Katherine Paterson’s Journey: Celebrating a Lifetime of Storytelling

#KatherinePaterson, #StorycomicPresents, #LiteraryLegends, #AwardWinningAuthor, #ChildrensLiterature, #BookLovers, #AuthorInterview, #StorytellingMagic, #ClassicBooks, #ReadersCommunity, #InspiringAuthors, #BookDiscussion, #LiteraryJourney, #FamousAuthors, #BookWorld
Welcome to Storycomic Presents! In Episode 324, I, Barney Smith of storycomic.com, am honored to host the internationally celebrated and legendary Vermont author, Katherine Paterson.
In this episode, we delve into the rich tapestry of Katherine Paterson's literary career, exploring the diverse range of her award-winning works. Katherine shares insights into her writing process, the inspiration behind her beloved stories, and the impact her books have had on readers of all ages.
We journey through her extensive bibliography, discussing the themes, characters, and profound messages that resonate throughout her novels. Katherine's ability to weave complex narratives that speak to both young and adult readers is a highlight of our conversation.
Our engaging chat covers the breadth of her literary contributions, from her well-known classics to her latest publications. Katherine's warmth and wisdom shine as she recounts the experiences and motivations behind her writing journey.
For more about Katherine Paterson and her incredible body of work, visit her website at https://katherinepaterson.com/.
Join us in this captivating episode as we celebrate the literary genius of Katherine Paterson, a true icon in the world of children's and young adult literature.
This Episode is sponsored by Janus Point Press.  Learn more about their amazing work at: https://januspointpress.com/
The Title sequence was designed and created by Morgan Quaid.See more of Morgan’s Work at: https://morganquaid.com/
Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory GiordanoSee more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/
Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started:https://www.podbean.com/storycomic
Follow us:
Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.comwww.patreon.com/storycomicwww.facebook.com/storycomic1https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/https://twitter.com/storycomic1
For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com
 
Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at:
https://marekbennett.com/https://www.hexapus-ink.com/https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/https://www.vonallan.com/https://higgins802.com/

(Episode 61): Finding Humor and Truth in Writing with Joni B. Cole

#JoniBCole #PartyLikeIts2044 #WritingCommunity #WritersLife #EssayCollection #CreativeWriting #LiteraryConsultant #WritingGuide #WritersCenter #WhiteRiverJunction #VermontAuthors #WritingInspiration #BookTalk #AuthorInterview #StorycomicPresents
Welcome to Episode 321 of Storycomic Presents, hosted by Barney Smith. In this insightful episode, we are privileged to converse with Joni B. Cole, an esteemed Vermont author and the mind behind the Writer’s Center of White River Junction. Joni brings her latest literary offering, the revised and expanded edition of her popular writing guide, "Good Naked."
Joni B. Cole is not only a prolific author but also a dedicated writing instructor and literary consultant. Her new essay collection, "Party Like It's 2044," has garnered acclaim for its engaging and thought-provoking content. However, it is "Good Naked" that stands at the forefront of our discussion today. This guide is a beacon for writers navigating the often tumultuous seas of creativity and productivity. With humor and practicality, Joni dismantles the myths of the writing process and offers tangible strategies, stories, and exercises to aid writers from inception to the final touches of their work.
Tune in to this episode of Storycomic Presents for an enriching dialogue with Joni B. Cole and discover how "Good Naked" can transform your writing journey. For more information on Joni's work and her contributions to the literary world, visit the Writer’s Center of White River Junction.
This Episode is sponsored by Janus Point Press.  Learn more about their amazing work at: https://januspointpress.com/
The Title sequence was designed and created by Morgan Quaid.See more of Morgan’s Work at: https://morganquaid.com/
Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory GiordanoSee more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/
Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started:https://www.podbean.com/storycomic
 
Follow us:
Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.comwww.patreon.com/storycomicwww.facebook.com/storycomic1https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/https://twitter.com/storycomic1
For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com
Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at:
https://marekbennett.com/https://www.hexapus-ink.com/https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/https://www.vonallan.com/https://higgins802.com/

(Episode 60): Drawing Childhood: Ashley Wolff on Illustration and Story

#AshleyWolff #ChildrensBooks #StorycomicPresents #VermontAuthors #Illustration #MissBindergarten #BabyBear #PictureBooks #ChildrensLiterature #ArtAndStorytelling #RhodeIslandSchoolOfDesign #NatureInBooks #BarneySmith #StorycomicDotCom #BookIndustryEvolution
Welcome to Episode 320 of Storycomic Presents, hosted by Barney Smith of storycomic.com! Today, we're thrilled to feature Ashley Wolff, an internationally celebrated and award-winning children's book author and illustrator. With a career spanning over 40 books since 1984, Ashley has been a cornerstone in the children's book industry.
In this episode, she offers invaluable advice and gives us a glimpse into the evolution of the children's book world.
For more about Ashley and her extensive portfolio, visit her website at https://ashleywolff.com/. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that delves into the art and business of creating children's books.
This Episode is sponsored by Janus Point Press.  Learn more about their amazing work at: https://januspointpress.com/
The Title sequence was designed and created by Morgan Quaid.See more of Morgan’s Work at: https://morganquaid.com/
Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory GiordanoSee more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/
Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started:https://www.podbean.com/storycomic
Follow us:
Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.comwww.patreon.com/storycomicwww.facebook.com/storycomic1https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/https://twitter.com/storycomic1
For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com
Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at:
https://marekbennett.com/https://www.hexapus-ink.com/https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/https://www.vonallan.com/https://higgins802.com/

(Episode 59): Nancy Stone: Finding Light and Shadow in ’Indigo Hours’

#NancyStone, #IndigoHours, #HealingHaiku, #Caregiving, #AlzheimersAwareness, #DementiaCare, #StorycomicPresents, #VermontArtists, #PoetryHeals, #RootstockPublishing, #EmotionalResilience, #CopingWithLoss, #VermontWatercolorSociety, #NorthernVermontArtistsAssociation, #BookArtsGuildOfVermont, #BarneySmith, #StorycomicDotCom
Welcome to Episode 319 of Storycomic Presents, hosted by Barney Smith! Today, we're thrilled to have Nancy Stone, the nationally acclaimed and award-winning author of 'Indigo Hours: Healing Haiku.' Nancy is not just an author but also an award-winning painter and book artist. She has taught art at various institutions and is a member of the Northern Vermont Artists Association and the Vermont Watercolor Society.
'Indigo Hours' is a poignant collection of haiku poems accompanied by original scratchboard drawings. The book serves as a calming guide for those dealing with the emotional toll of caregiving, particularly for loved ones suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's Disease. Nancy's work breaks down the silence and stigma associated with these conditions and offers glimmers of gratitude, courage, and resilience.
For more information about Nancy Stone and her transformative book, visit Rootstock Publishing.
Don't miss this enlightening conversation as we delve into the healing power of art and poetry. Tune in now!
This Episode is sponsored by Janus Point Press.  Learn more about their amazing work at: https://januspointpress.com/
The Title sequence was designed and created by Morgan Quaid.See more of Morgan’s Work at: https://morganquaid.com/
Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory GiordanoSee more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/
Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started:https://www.podbean.com/storycomic
Follow us:
Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.comwww.patreon.com/storycomicwww.facebook.com/storycomic1https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/https://twitter.com/storycomic1
For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com
Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at:
https://marekbennett.com/https://www.hexapus-ink.com/https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/https://www.vonallan.com/https://higgins802.com/

(Episode 58): The Finish Line of Resilience: Mike Magluilo on His Debut Novel

#StorycomicPresents #BarneySmithInterviews #VermontAuthors #MikeMagluilo #AReasonToRun #RunningAndWriting #ComingOfAgeNovel #1980sNostalgia #VermontLiterature #OvercomingAdversity #FamilyDynamics #SportsFiction #RootstockPublishing #VTWriters #VermontBookScene
Welcome to Episode 314 of Storycomic Presents, where we bring you compelling conversations with incredible storytellers and artists. I'm your host, Barney Smith, and today we have a special treat for you. We're joined by the nationally acclaimed and award-winning author, Mike Magluilo, who will be discussing his riveting novel, 'A Reason to Run.'
Set in the 1980s suburban landscape of Chicago, 'A Reason to Run' is a coming-of-age story that follows the life of Sam Bagliarello, a teenager who turns to competitive running as a form of physical and emotional recovery after a life-altering accident. This novel is a must-read for fans of sports fiction and coming-of-age stories, drawing comparisons to works by Jeff Zentner, John Green, and Matthew Quick.
In today's interview, Mike delves into the themes of the book, including the challenges of family dynamics, the spirit of resilience, and the transformative power of running. He also shares insights into his writing process and what inspired him to tell this particular story.
For more information about Mike Magluilo and his work, visit his website at https://mikemagluilo.com. You can also find 'A Reason to Run' on his publisher's site at https://www.rootstockpublishing.com/rootstock-books/a-reason-to-run-a-novel.
Don't miss this captivating conversation that explores the complexities of growing up, the healing power of sports, and the enduring human spirit. Tune in now!
 
The Title sequence was designed and created by Morgan Quaid.
See more of Morgan’s Work at: https://morganquaid.com/
Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory Giordano
See more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/
Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started:https://www.podbean.com/storycomic
Follow us:
Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com
www.patreon.com/storycomicwww.facebook.com/storycomic1https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/https://twitter.com/storycomic1
For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com
Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at:
https://marekbennett.com/https://www.hexapus-ink.com/https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/https://www.vonallan.com/