Vermont Artists & Authors

(Episode 75): From Gallops to Pages: How Celia Ryker Turned Horse Tales into Heartfelt Stories!

#BigGuyBook #CeliaRyker #HorseLovers #MiddleGradeBooks #HorseStories #ChildrensBooks #AuthorInterview #StorycomicPresents #HorseLife #EquineBooks #Bookstagram #ReadersOfInstagram #AnimalStories #BookRelease #NewReads #rootstockpublishing 
We're thrilled to re-welcome Celia Ryker, an award-winning author whose life's journey has taken her from horse training to writing deeply moving stories. Today, she shares insights into her latest middle-grade novel, "Big Guy," a heartfelt tale that echoes classics like Black Beauty.
"Big Guy" explores the life of a show horse facing the twilight of his career with resilience and discovers the true meaning of friendship and community in a new home. This episode offers a deep dive into Celia's unique background in horse training, her transition into a celebrated author, and how her real-life experiences with horses enrich her storytelling.
Dive into the equine world through Celia's eyes and discover why "Big Guy" is not just a book for horse lovers but for anyone who cherishes stories of growth and transformation.
Don’t forget to visit Celia's Website to explore more of her works and check out the book here.
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, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, 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/https://mrfuzzyears.com/Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

(Episode 74): From Ghana to Vermont: Sefakor Komabu-Pomeyie's Journey of Resilience

#StorycomicPresents #SefakorKomabuPomeyie #ImAble #DisabilityRights #OvercomingChallenges #EducationalPolicy #Accessibility #InclusiveEducation #Empowerment #Resilience #LifeJourney #HumanRights #Advocacy #GlobalEducation #inspiringstories 
Barney Smith is honored to welcome Sefakor G.M.A. Komabu-Pomeyie, an international disability rights advocate and author of the inspiring book, "I'm Able." This episode offers an intimate look into Sefakor’s life journey from a child in Ghana, through her battle with polio and its challenges, to becoming a PhD holder advocating for policy change in education for people with disabilities.
Sefakor shares her personal narrative of resilience and determination, discussing the critical role education played in her life and the systemic barriers she faced. "I'm Able" not only highlights her struggles but also her triumphs and the importance of creating supportive environments that enhance accessibility and opportunity for all.
Join us as Sefakor discusses her motivation for writing "I'm Able" and her ongoing work to align educational policies with the needs of disabled students. This episode is a compelling exploration of how personal experiences shape advocacy and the impact of dedicated individuals on societal change.
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 73): From Real Life to Written Page: Rebecca Cummins and 'Dear Aunt Bea'

#StorycomicPresents #RebeccaCummins #DearAuntBea #ChildrensBooks #NatureExploration #YouthLiterature #BookRelease #JourneyJournal #EnvironmentalEducation #YoungReaders #AdventureBooks #CommunityInteraction #ClimaticReflection #NewBeginnings #LiteraryJourney
Join us in Episode 365 of Storycomic Presents as host Barney Smith welcomes Rebecca Cummins to discuss her captivating new book, "Dear Aunt Bea: A Journal of a Journey." This touching narrative follows ten-year-old Jimi’s adjustment to a new life in the mountainous Northeast after migrating from the flat Midwest. Aimed at young readers, this story blends adventure, natural exploration, and personal growth.
In this episode, Rebecca shares the inspiration behind her book and how her own life experiences influenced the creation of Jimi’s character and his explorations. "Dear Aunt Bea" is not just a tale of moving geographically but also a profound exploration of personal discovery through interaction with nature. Jimi’s letters to Aunt Bea serve as a heartfelt medium for reflecting on his observations about climate, community, and his role within his new environment.
Rebecca discusses the importance of nurturing curiosity and the sense of belonging in young readers, highlighting how nature can teach us about resilience and beauty in change. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in children’s literature that encourages exploration and understanding of both our inner and outer worlds.
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/storycomic
www.facebook.com/storycomic1
https://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 72): The Land We Love: Glenn Reed Talks 'Searching for the Wild Asparagus'

#StorycomicPresents #GlennReed #SearchingForTheWildAsparagus #Vermont #NatureWriting #Memoir #Essays #Photography #RuralLife #Homage #PersonalJourney #BookTalk #AuthorsOfInstagram #Literature #SenseOfPlace
Join us in Episode 364 of Storycomic Presents, where host Barney Smith sits down with Glenn Reed, a celebrated journalist and author, to discuss his latest work, ‘Searching for the Wild Asparagus.’ This deeply personal book is a collection of essays and photographs that explore the profound connection between a person and a place—specifically, the 23 (or 22) acres in a small Vermont town that shaped Reed's life.
In this episode, Glenn shares the inspiration behind his heartfelt tribute to his parents' former home and the surrounding landscape that has profoundly influenced his identity. The conversation delves into the essence of place and memory, examining how the sensory experiences of nature and significant personal moments are intertwined in the fabric of our lives.
Glenn discusses the power of simple pleasures like the smell of corn in August, the sight of a dog joyfully running through a field, and intimate conversations amidst nature's backdrop. These experiences, universal yet unique, are captured in Glenn's narrative, offering viewers a reflective look at how our environments shape us.
Tune in to discover how ‘Searching for the Wild Asparagus’ not only recounts Glenn’s personal journey but also invites us to reflect on our own places of significance in our lives.
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 71): From Page to Legacy: Bill Tulp’s Journey with Alexander Twilight

#StorycomicPresents #BillTulp #AlexanderTwilight #GraphicBiography #VermontHistory #HistoricalFigures #AfricanAmericanHistory #IllustratorsOnInstagram #BookRelease #ArtAndHistory #EducationThroughArt #LocalArtists #BiographyBooks #AmericanHistory #OldStoneHouseMuseum
Join  host Barney Smith is honored to chat with Bill Tulp, an award-winning author and illustrator, about his latest project, 'The Life and Times of Alexander Twilight.' This graphic biography, published by Onion River Press, beautifully details the life of Alexander Twilight, the first African American to earn a Bachelor’s degree and serve in a state legislature in the U.S.
Bill delves into the research and creative processes behind illustrating this monumental figure, exploring Twilight's impact as an educator, legislator, and builder. Learn how Bill utilized resources from the Old Stone House Museum & Historic Village, integrating meticulous historical research into his vivid illustrations. Bill also discusses his collaboration with various educational groups to make this book a tool for learning in Vermont schools.
Additionally, Bill shares details about the upcoming book release event at the Old Stone House Museum, which includes a presentation on his graphic storytelling methods. This episode is a fascinating look at how art and history merge to revive and honor the legacy of a pivotal American figure.
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 70): Vermont’s Literary Daughter: Brent L Kendrick on Mary E. Wilkins Freeman

#VermontAuthor #BrentLKendrick #GreenMountainStories #CreativeNonfiction #LiteraryHistory #VermontLiterature #AmericanLiterature #AuthorInterview #BookTalk #WritingLife #HistoricalLiterature #EducationAndLiterature #LiteraryReinvention #AcademicLife #LiteratureLovers #MaryEWilkinsFreeman
Welcome to Episode 361 of Storycomic Presents! In this episode, host Barney Smith is thrilled to chat with Brent L Kendrick, a celebrated academic and author known for his dynamic and extensive career in literature and education. Brent joins us to discuss his recent works, including 'In Bed: My Year of Foolin’ Around' and 'Green Mountain Stories', shedding light on his unique writing approach and deep connections to Vermont's literary heritage.
'In Bed: My Year of Foolin’ Around' is a collection of fifty-seven creative nonfiction essays composed before sleep, exploring a wide range of topics from aging to spirituality with a scholarly yet personal touch. Following this, Brent talks about 'Green Mountain Stories', a critical reissue of Mary E. Wilkins Freeman’s works that reconnect her to her Vermont roots, providing extensive commentary and celebrating her return to Vermont literary history.
Join us as Brent shares insights from his years of teaching, his passion for developing writers, and his current project, a detailed biography of Mary E. Wilkins Freeman. This episode offers a deep dive into the life of a writer who has continually reinvented himself and remained passionate about literature and education.
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 69): Behind the Legend: Glenn Fay Jr. on Ethan Allen’s Family and Legacy

#Vermontauthors #GlennFayJr #EthanAllen #VermontHistory #AmericanHistory #NewEnglandHistory #HistoricalBooks #HistoryLovers #AmericanRevolution #FamilyDynamics #VermontFounding #HistoricalResearch #HistoryAuthors #ArcadiaPublishing #EarlyAmericanLife #OnionRiverPress
Host Barney Smith is honored to welcome historian and author Glenn Fay Jr. for a fascinating discussion about his upcoming book, "Ambition: The Remarkable Family of Ethan Allen." This episode delves into the often-overlooked aspects of Ethan Allen's family life, exploring their early struggles and significant contributions to Vermont's founding during a tumultuous period in American history.
Glenn provides an in-depth look at the Allen family’s life in Connecticut, their ventures into Vermont, and their myriad challenges, from harsh living conditions to complex relations with Indigenous peoples and colonial powers. The book promises to offer new insights, stories, and images that shed light on this influential family's domestic and social dynamics.
Join us as Glenn shares the research journey behind the book, including unique stories about the women and servants in the Allen household and the family's intricate interactions that helped shape the state of Vermont. This discussion is a must-watch for history buffs and anyone interested in the deeper personal narratives that form our collective past.
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 68): Amy Allen Explores the Vistas of Emotion in 'Mountain Offerings'

#Vermontauthors #AmyAllen #MountainOfferings #Poetry #NaturePoems #HumanEmotions #NaturalWorld #VermontPoetry #PoetLaureate #CreativeWriting #LifeJourney #Parenthood #SelfAwareness #LiteraryArt #contemporarypoetry Host Barney Smith is delighted to welcome the acclaimed writer and poet Amy Allen, owner of All of The Write Words and Poet Laureate for Shelburne. In this episode, we delve into Amy’s latest poetry collection, 'Mountain Offerings,' an evocative exploration of human emotions through the lens of the natural world.
'Mountain Offerings' charts a poetic journey from youth to maturity, capturing pivotal life stages, including partnership, parenthood, and the quest for self-awareness. Set against the backdrop of Vermont's serene landscapes—from snow-capped mountains to tranquil lakes—Amy's poems weave the beauty and brutality of nature with the intricacies of personal experience.
Amy discusses her creative process, the influence of nature on her work, and the transition from an education career to founding her own writing and advising business. This collection is celebrated for its clarity, accessibility, and the profound connection it establishes with readers, making Amy's work a resonant voice in contemporary poetry.
Learn more about Amy Allen and dive deeper into her world of words at All of The Write Words.
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 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.