Veronica Roth on Taylor Swift, Dystopian Fantasy, and the Art of Starting Again

Veronica Roth on Taylor Swift, Dystopian Fantasy, and the Art of Starting Again

Author: Jeff Utecht & Tricia Friedman May 25, 2026 Duration: 16:59

This week, Tricia Friedman speaks with Veronica Roth, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Divergent series and the author of Seek the Traitor Son, the first book in a new epic romance dystopian fantasy series.

In this conversation, Veronica shares how watching Taylor Swift perform during the Eras Tour helped her reflect on her own earlier work, her growth as an artist, and what it means to keep creating after a hugely successful series. She also talks about world-building, writing for young readers, creative confidence, and the challenge of beginning again as an author.

For educators, librarians, parents, and anyone supporting creative young people, this episode offers a rare look at how one of today's most widely read writers thinks about imagination, reinvention, and the stories that stay with readers.

 

00:00 — Welcome to the Show
01:00 — Veronica Roth's New Book, Seek the Traitor Son
03:00 — Looking Back at Divergent
06:00 — What Taylor Swift's Eras Tour Helped Veronica See
10:00 — Creative Reinvention After Huge Success
14:00 — Writing for Young Readers
18:00 — Building Dystopian and Fantasy Worlds
23:00 — What Inspires Veronica's Creative Process
28:00 — Advice for Creative Young People
32:00 — Why Stories Still Matter


Ever feel like the conversation around education moves faster than a school day? Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators is here to slow things down just enough for a meaningful dialogue. Hosted by practicing educators Jeff Utecht and Tricia Friedman, this podcast creates a necessary space for teachers and administrators to dig into the real work of modern teaching. Instead of just theory, you’ll hear from fellow practitioners and thought leaders who are navigating the same challenges you face daily. The discussions move beyond surface-level trends to unpack practical strategies and tools that can be adapted for your own classroom or school. Whether it’s rethinking assessment, integrating technology with purpose, or fostering a more inclusive learning environment, each episode is grounded in the shared goal of improving outcomes for every student. Tuning in feels less like another professional development requirement and more like a candid staff room conversation with colleagues who get it. This is where the abstract ideas about educational change meet the concrete reality of the K-12 world, offering actionable insights for anyone committed to the craft of teaching. Find Shifting Schools wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts for a regular dose of perspective and practical ideas.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators
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