Rock Paper Write Podcast

Second Sunday Presents May: Dian Seidel with DIY Book Festivals

Join us for this month’s Second Sunday Presents as we welcome Dian Seidel for an engaging conversation about DIY Book Festivals and how authors, educators, and literary communities can create meaningful events without a huge budget or corporate backing. Dian shares practical tips for organizing successful festivals, building community partnerships, attracting authors and readers, and creating memorable experiences that celebrate books and storytelling.
Whether you’re an indie author, teacher, librarian, or book lover dreaming of hosting your own literary event, this episode is packed with inspiration and real-world advice to help you get started. Tune in to learn how grassroots book festivals can connect communities, support local authors, and keep the love of reading alive.
For more information about Dian and our other local authors in the program, go to Kensington Row Authors.

Episode 58: Patrick B. Simpson author of Reilly: A Truman Pierce Novel

In this episode, we sit down with Patrick B. Simpson to discuss his newly released novel, Reilly: A Truman Pierce Novel. We dive into the return of Truman Pierce, the emotional stakes behind the story, and Patrick’s approach to crafting modern noir fiction filled with mystery, grit, and heart. Patrick also shares insights into his writing process, the evolution of the Truman Pierce series, and what readers can expect next.
Patrick B. Simpson is the author of multiple novels and short stories, including Pierce and Absolution. His work has been praised for blending classic noir atmosphere with contemporary crime storytelling. 
FUN FACT: We interviewed Patrick for his debut novel, Pierce (episode 6 if you missed it).
Listeners can connect with Patrick and learn more about his books at patsimpsonwrites.com. His novels are available through major book retailers, including the Kensington Row Bookshop  other bookstores and online book platforms.

Second Sunday Presents April: Amy L. Watkins...Canva to Classrooms

In this episode of Second Sunday Presents, Amy L. Watkins takes listeners on a creative journey from Canva to classrooms—and far beyond. Blending her experience as an educator, podcaster, and publishing advocate, Amy shares how simple design tools can transform teaching, storytelling, and community engagement. From creating eye-catching classroom materials to supporting authors and small businesses with accessible design, this conversation highlights the power of creativity in everyday spaces. Whether you’re an educator, writer, or entrepreneur, you’ll walk away inspired to turn your ideas into impactful visuals and meaningful connections.

Second Sunday Presents April: Katherine Pickett...Author Websites

Second Sunday Presents welcomes Katherine Pickett for a practical and insightful conversation about author websites—what they are, why they matter, and how to make yours work for you. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, Katherine shares tips on creating a site that reflects your voice, connects with readers, and supports your writing goals. From essential pages to common mistakes, this episode is packed with guidance to help you build an online presence that feels authentic and effective.

Episode 57: Bob Dover author of Bridges of Washington D.C.: A History & Guide

In this episode, we talk with geologist and author Bob Dover about exploring Washington, D.C. through an unexpected lens—its bridges. In Bridges of Washington, D.C.: A History & Guide, Bob uncovers how geology, geography, and human movement have shaped the city’s growth from the 1700s to today.
We discuss what inspired him to tell D.C.’s story through bridges, how his geology background influences his perspective, and how bridges reflect broader shifts in design, transportation, and culture. Bob also shares a standout bridge story and explains how these structures connect not just places, but people and history.
He reflects on his journey from writing travel narratives to publishing Bridgespotting: A Guide to Bridges that Connect People, Places, and Times, and how that led to this deeper exploration of his hometown.
Find his books through major booksellers and learn more at https://www.bridgespotting.com/ and you can find his signed books locally at https://www.kensingtonrowbookshop.com/

Second Sunday Presents: February with Eric O'Neil...Author Brand

In this special edition of Second Sunday Presents, we’re joined by branding strategist and publishing expert Eric O'Neill for a powerful conversation on what it truly means to build an author brand.
More than logos and color palettes, author branding is about clarity, consistency, and connection. Eric breaks down how writers can define their unique voice, position themselves in the marketplace, and create a cohesive presence across platforms—from websites and social media to book launches and speaking engagements.
Whether you’re a debut author or a seasoned writer ready to level up, this episode offers practical strategies and mindset shifts to help you stand out, build trust with readers, and grow your impact.
Tune in to discover how to move from simply publishing books to building a brand that lasts.

Second Sunday Presents: January with Clark Thomas Riley...Audio Books

On this episode of Second Sunday Presents, we sit down with Clark Thomas Riley for an inside look at how to turn your book into an audiobook.
From understanding the difference between narration and performance to choosing between DIY recording and hiring a professional team, Clark breaks down the entire audiobook production process. He shares practical insights on recording equipment, preparing your manuscript for audio, budgeting for production, and marketing your finished audiobook to reach new listeners.
Whether you're an indie author, traditionally published writer, or simply audiobook-curious, this episode offers actionable steps to help you expand your story into the fast-growing world of audio.
If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to hear your words come to life, this conversation is your starting point.

Episode 56: Jestina M. author of When Prince and Reggie Didn't Win

In this episode, we talk with Jestina M., author of the children’s book When Prince and Reggie Didn’t Win, a heartfelt story that explores resilience, teamwork, and redefining what it truly means to win. Through the journey of Prince and his brother Reggie, the book offers meaningful lessons for children, parents, educators, and coaches alike.
Jestina shares the inspiration behind the story, her approach to writing for young readers, and why conversations about perseverance and emotional growth matter—both on and off the field. When Prince and Reggie Didn’t Win is available at Kensington Row Books Shop, making it a wonderful local find for families and classrooms.
 
Event: Book Signing at Barnes & Noble, Potomac Yard on Sunday, February 21st at 1:00 p.m.
Follow on Instagram and Tik Tok: prince_reggie_adventures
 

Episode 55 Special Q&A with Emily Barrosse, C.E.O. and Founder of Bold Story Press and Xander Press

In this special Q&A edition, Emily Barrosse—CEO and Founder of Bold Story Press and Xander Press—shares her journey from traditional publishing to building a curated hybrid press focused on author empowerment. Emily discusses how hybrid publishing works, what sets it apart from traditional and self-publishing, and why discoverability, metadata, and direct reader engagement matter more than ever. She also offers practical insights on marketing, festivals, newsletters, social media, and avoiding publishing scams, along with advice for authors navigating today’s crowded book market.
You can learn more about Emily and her work at boldstorypress.com and xanderpress.com, or reach her directly at emily@boldstorypress.com
To learn more about our local authors: kensingtonrowauthors 

Episode 54: Joanne Kieffer author of P for Percy: An ABC Story!

In this episode, we chat with Joanne Kieffer—local author, children’s book enthusiast, kindergarten art teacher, and proud dog mom—about the inspiration behind her debut picture book, P for Percy: An ABC Story. Joanne shares how Percy, her charming Olde English Bulldogge, sparked the idea for an alphabet adventure and what makes her ABC book stand out in children’s literature.
We talk about how she balanced storytelling with early learning, the creative challenges of writing within the ABC structure, and some of her favorite reactions from young readers. Joanne also gives us a peek at what she’s working on next—and whether Percy might return for more stories.
To connect with Joanne or find P for Percy, look for her online at Classic Tales USA, Kensington Row Authors website on Instagram @percytheoeb  or around Kensington on a walk with Percy!