In this episode, we sit down with Tammy Gerhard, author of Cocoa Hugs and Coffee Mugs and I Love My Community: Kids Activity Book, for a thoughtful conversation about storytelling, connection, and building community through children’s literature.

Tammy shares how her work centers warmth, belonging, and everyday moments that help children understand connection at home and in the world around them. We discuss why representation and community matter in early reading, how stories can spark meaningful conversations between adults and children, and what inspired her to create books that are both comforting and empowering.

This episode is a celebration of storytelling as a bridge between generations, neighborhoods, and shared experiences.

We explore:

• How children’s books can nurture empathy and confidence

• The role of community in shaping young readers

• Why everyday stories matter just as much as big adventures

• Using books as tools for connection at home and in classrooms

If you love books that bring people together and stories that center care, creativity, and community, this episode is for you.

In this episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, host Janaya Hernandez is joined by Anna Laurie, author of The Infamous 8: The Birthday Party Adventure, for a thoughtful conversation on food allergy awareness, education, and empowerment through storytelling.

Anna shares her journey as an advocate and author, discussing how her professional background in food allergy and wellness inspired her to write directly for children. The conversation explores the importance of helping kids understand food allergies in an age-appropriate way, building confidence in social settings, and encouraging self-advocacy from an early age.

This episode also features our signature segment, From the Page, where Anna reads a passage from The Infamous 8, offering listeners a glimpse into the heart of the story and the conversations it’s designed to spark among children, parents, and educators.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Food allergy awareness through children’s literature
• Educating children without creating fear or overwhelm
• Confidence and self-advocacy for kids and families
• How storytelling supports safer, more informed communities

New episodes of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast drop every Tuesday.

Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast — Where stories speak.

In this heartwarming episode of the Nutmeg Lit Fest Podcast, we sit down with Heidi Rocha, author of the beloved Sparkly Smiles Series, to explore how storytelling can inspire healthy habits in children—one joyful page at a time.

Heidi shares how her children’s books transform everyday dental routines into engaging adventures that help kids build confidence, reduce fear, and develop lifelong healthy habits. We talk about the power of relatable characters, playful learning, and how stories can support parents, educators, and caregivers in making wellness fun and approachable.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, librarian, or children’s author, this episode highlights how intentional storytelling can shape positive behaviors and meaningful family moments.

Tune in for a conversation filled with creativity, compassion, and smiles.