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
Raising Money-Smart Kids [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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In this episode of "Reading with Your Kids," host Jed Doherty sits down with Scott and Victoria Kyle, authors of the insightful book "The Other Birds and Bees: The Financial Facts of Life, Money Secrets No One Ever Taugh…
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In this episode, host Jed Doherty welcomes acclaimed author Jon Erik Lappano to discuss his latest picture book, "The Language of Birds." Lappano shares the inspiration behind the story, which centers on Mira, a solitary…
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In this engaging episode of the "Reading with Your Kids" podcast, host Jed Doherty welcomes two inspiring guests: Sara Schroter, author of the children's book "Max the Gemstone Finder," and Daniel Harmon, creator and sho…
Beyond the Sash: Erin Chapman's Advocacy in Sports and Accessibility [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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Step into an inspiring conversation "Beyond the Sash" with Erin Chapman, the reigning Ms United World, children's book author, and champion of accessibility and inclusion in sports. In this episode, Erin shares her journ…
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Dive into this episode for a double feature of creativity, heart, and inspiration as we welcome celebrated authors Shannon Messenger and Sarah Brannen! First, Shannon Messenger, the creative force behind the beloved "Kee…
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Duration: 55:21
Join us for a delightful episode packed with creativity, inspiration, and family reading fun! Host Jed Doherty sits down with acclaimed authors Samuel Joseph and Phil Proctor, the creative minds behind the Magic Maze tri…
The Eternality Of Love [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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In this uplifting episode of "Reading With Your Kids," host Jed Doherty welcomes two inspiring authors, Dr. Dale Atkins and Jenn Moudahi, to discuss the power of picture books in connecting families and celebrating cheri…
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Duration: 56:18
Welcome to another delightful episode of Reading With Your Kids! In this fun-packed show, host Jed Doherty invites two talented children's book authors—Bethany Barton and CG Abrams—to share their passion for storytelling…