Faith, Fantasy & Fierce Heroes

Faith, Fantasy & Fierce Heroes

Author: Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc January 22, 2026 Duration: 56:21

Join us on this inspiring episode as host Jed Doherty sits down with YA author Makena Song to dive into her captivating new fantasy series, "Among the Fallen." Speaking to us from Central Florida, Makena shares how her love for gaming, anime, and world mythology shaped her writing, and opens up about her unique journey from Wattpad writer to published novelist.

Makena unpacks the powerful themes at the heart of her trilogy—including empathy, healing, overcoming hurtful labels, and the vital importance of forgiveness. She reveals the real-life experiences and heartfelt faith that influence her storytelling and explains how writing in third person lets her create universal, relatable characters. Listeners will discover insights about her main character Lucien's adventure in a mystical, monster-filled forest, as well as behind-the-scenes challenges Makena faced growing up and finding her voice. The conversation also highlights tips for parents, educators, and young adult readers on using stories as tools for empathy and hope.

This episode also features a warm conversation with middle-grade author Lee Miao, author of "Take a Shot, Kip." Lee shares insights into her writing process, the inspiration drawn from her own family and community, and the challenges young athletes face in competitive environments. Through themes of family, friendship, perseverance, and self-discovery, Lee explores how sports help kids grow—not just as players, but as people. Discover how "Take a Shot, Kip" uses humor, heart, and real-life experiences to spark meaningful conversations among families about optimism, resilience, and navigating pressures both on and off the field.

Whether you're passionate about YA or middle-grade fiction, looking for inspiring family reads, or interested in the stories behind the authors, this episode is for you. Don't miss thoughtful advice and heartwarming stories from Makena Song and Lee Miao—perfect for fans of young literature and engaging storytelling!


There’s a special kind of magic that happens when families share stories, try a new recipe, or simply talk about a movie they just watched together. The Reading With Your Kids Podcast, from Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc, explores that magic in every episode. While the title highlights reading, the conversations here go far beyond the pages of a book. This podcast is really about connection-the kind built through everyday moments, whether you’re cooking, creating, or discovering a new song together. Each episode brings you authentic conversations with authors, educators, and families who share practical ideas and personal stories. You’ll hear about great children’s books, sure, but also about how shared experiences with TV, movies, and music can spark meaningful family discussions. The underlying goal is always to strengthen those essential bonds. Tuning in feels like getting thoughtful, friendly advice on turning daily routines into opportunities for laughter and learning. It’s a supportive space for any parent or caregiver looking to enrich their family life, one shared story or silly kitchen experiment at a time. The tone is warm, inclusive, and focused on the simple, powerful truth that time spent together is the foundation of a strong relationship.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Navigating Screens & Skies [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:16
Join us for a captivating episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast featuring two inspiring authors who empower families through knowledge and storytelling! First, Dr. Brad Marshall, a leading expert on childhood scr…
From Courage To Compassion [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:55
Join us on this heartwarming episode of Reading With Your Kids as we welcome two inspiring children's authors! Paige Murray stops by to celebrate her picture book, "Rosie's Ranch Rescue." Paige shares stories straight fr…
Bionic Boy & Book Loving Ghosts [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:52
In this captivating episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty explores the transformative power of children's literature through conversations with two remarkable authors who are reshaping storytelling for youn…
Parenting Without The Bubble Wrap [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:42
In this heartwarming episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty explores the power of children's literature with two remarkable authors who are changing how we understand personal challenges and differences. Fir…
A Tale Of Two Species [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:37
In this delightful episode of "Reading with Your Kids," host Jed Doherty explores two fascinating children's books that go far beyond simple storytelling. First, Leokadia George shares the incredible story of Trumpet, a…
Reading Beyond Boundaries: Stories of Courage and Imagination [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:17
In this delightful episode of "Reading with Your Kids," host Jed Doherty sits down with two remarkable authors who are changing the landscape of children's literature through powerful storytelling. First up is Christie M…
Coloring Outside Of The Lines [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:56
Get ready for a double dose of middle-grade magic! In this exciting episode of Reading with Your Kids, Jed Doherty takes listeners on two incredible literary adventures. First up, Rachel Renee Russell and her daughter Ni…
I Can Make A Difference With My Stories [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:19
In an exciting episode of Reading with Your Kids, filmmaker Morgan Stevenson Cooper shares a powerful message about children's creativity and empowerment through his debut picture book, "I Can Make a Movie". This inspiri…

«1...678910