Self-Publishing for Authors and Illustrators

Episode #13 How to Write Authentically for Kids

How to contact Beth: Beth.Snider.Art@gmail.com In this episode of Self Publishing for Authors and Illustrators, Beth sits down with author Jonathan Alexander to talk about his journey into writing and his work on the Variety KC children’s book series. Jonathan shares how he got started, how he approaches writing from a child’s perspective, and what it takes to tell authentic, meaningful stories based on real kids and real experiences. They dive into the full process behind the books, from interviewing families to shaping strong story structure, and discuss the balance between creativity and working within parameters. Jonathan also shares insight into storytelling principles, writing discipline, and advice for aspiring authors looking to improve their craft. If you’re interested in writing, self-publishing, or telling stories that truly connect with readers, this episode is packed with practical insight and inspiration.

Episode #12 Inside the Bologna Festival and the Future of Children's Books

In this episode, Beth sits down with illustrator Laura Muncie to share her journey from Scotland to Germany, how she became a full time illustrator, and what it was like attending the world renowned Bologna Children’s Book Festival. Laura gives a behind the scenes look at the Bologna Festival, often considered the biggest event in the world for children’s books and illustration. From industry trends to portfolio reviews and what publishers are really looking for, this conversation offers insight for illustrators and creators. They also dive into recent projects including The Magical Hair Brush and The Great Jace Escape, and talk about creativity, storytelling, and why human made art still matters in a world increasingly influenced by AI. If you are an illustrator, author, or creative of any kind, this episode gives you a real look at where the industry is heading and what it takes to stand out. Find Laura Website: https://www.lauramuncie.com [https://www.lauramuncie.com/] Instagram: @laura.muncie To contact Beth beth.snider.art@gmail.com [beth.snider.art@gmail.com] Listen to the full episode on Spotify or iTunes Learn more about Beth’s illustration agency: https://www.bethsniderart.com [https://www.bethsniderart.com/]

Episode #11 Living the Dream as a Children’s Book Illustrator // Bethany Hissong

In this episode, Beth sits down with illustrator Bethany Hissong to talk through her full journey from drawing as a child to becoming a professional illustrator working on real published books. They dive into her early influences, art education, years in graphic design and freelance work, and how everything led her back to children’s book illustration. They also talk about current projects, what it really takes to create a book, and advice for both illustrators and authors looking to get started. If you’ve ever thought about illustrating books or bringing your own story to life, this episode will give you a clear picture of what that path actually looks like. Full episode available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Email Beth: Beth.Snider.Art@gmail.com Beth's Website: http://www.bethsniderart.com Bethany Hissong Instagram @BethanyHissong_artist http://www.bethanyhissong.com

Episode #10 What Izzy B Is Doing for Kids Is Unreal

Izzy B is not your typical children’s author. He’s doing 99 school visits a year, dressing up like a goose to deliver books, and creating stories that are actually impacting kids in a real way. In this episode, we dive into his journey from being a teacher to becoming a full time author and illustrator. We talk about rejection, self publishing, the grind behind the scenes, and why kids today need better books now more than ever. Izzy shares the story behind his wildly popular books Look up and The Way Home, and explains how he is reaching kids in public schools in a way most people never think about. This one goes deeper than just books. It is about purpose, faith, creativity, and doing something that actually matters. If you are a parent, teacher, or someone who cares about the next generation, this is worth your time. Listen to the full episode on Spotify * Izzy's Website:  [http://goog_1322871248/]https://izzybbooks.com/ [https://izzybbooks.com/] * Swing High Books: https://swinghighbooks.com/ [https://swinghighbooks.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoppeQ-Bv69fo9kC8C8dOjOGUSTqUrmhj4Qarp3siFB1F7fXYHOH] * Instagram: @izzybbooks

Episode #9 When Your Talent Becomes Your Calling // Illustrator Stewart Long

I sat down with illustrator Stewart Long to talk about his journey from drawing as a kid to creating powerful children’s books with real meaning. We get into how he went from treating art like a hobby to realizing it was something much bigger, how his faith shaped the work he creates, and what it actually looks like to pursue creativity while raising a family and working a full-time job. We also talk about the books he’s worked on, including Look Up and I Am The Lord’s I Know, and why stories still matter in a world that’s moving fast toward AI and automation. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn your gifts into something meaningful, this episode is for you. Follow Stewart Long: Website: https://stewartlong.framer.website/illustration Instagram: @stewart.long