Best Tayler Simon Podcasts (2025)

1
SC Book Ban Updates- May 2025 18:46

2h ago18:46

18:46

In this episode, we discuss the ongoing issue of book bans in SC. We explore the current state dynamics, with a focus on the actions of individual parents and the state Board of Education's regulation (43-170) that deems any sexual material developmentally inappropriate. Get the tea on the books that are currently banned statewide in SC. 00:00 Intr…

1
Runaway Teacher Turned Adventure Girl (with Amy Friedl) 20:28

6d ago20:28

20:28

In this episode, author and former teacher Amy Friedl shares her journey from teaching to writing children's books focused on connecting girls to nature. Amy discusses her transformation and healing through nature, her book series 'Strong Girls Travel,' and her efforts to empower young girls and families to embrace the outdoors. 00:00 Introduction …

1
Believe in the Resilience (with Vanessa Miller) 25:27

13d ago25:27

25:27

In this episode, we sit down with renowned author Vanessa Miller. We discuss Vanessa's journey as a writer, the importance of storytelling, and her latest historical fiction work, 'The Filling Station,' centered around the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Vanessa shares how her faith and dedication to inspiring readers keep her grounded. The conversation …

1
Natural-Born Scientists (with Kyla Saphir) 19:38

20d ago19:38

19:38

In this episode, we speak with children's book author, educator, and yoga instructor Kyla Saphir about the importance of nature-based learning for children. Kyla shares her background in early childhood education and discusses how nature schools foster curiosity, emotional well-being, and social skills in kids. She emphasizes the need for diverse r…

1
Asking the Bigger Questions (with Enigmatic Raven) 30:04

1M ago30:04

30:04

In this episode, we have a heartfelt and insightful conversation with author and poet Enigmatic Raven. Discussing the intersections of personal identity, writing, and social advocacy, Enigmatic Raven shares their journey from a rural Midwestern upbringing to becoming a published author. The discussion touches on the challenges of the job market, th…

1
Whole Enough to Enjoy (with Jennifer Bartell Boykin) 32:31

1M ago32:31

32:31

In this episode, we speak with Jennifer Bartell Boykin, the City of Columbia Poet Laureate. Jennifer discusses her work as a writer, focusing on her personal experiences growing up as a Black woman in the rural South and capturing the stories of her ancestors. She highlights her role as Poet Laureate, her involvement in advocating for students' rig…

1
Inspiration Through Challenge (with Dr. Latasha Watts) 19:59

2M ago19:59

19:59

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Latasha Watts, an author, poet, and model. Dr. Latasha discusses her journey as a writer, her passion for poetry, and how her experiences, including her work with Mecklenburg County Mobile Crisis, have influenced her creative pursuits. She emphasizes the importance of using her voice to inspire and motivate others,…

1
Pie for Everyone (with Noah Bodie) 13:23

2M ago13:23

13:23

In this episode we have an enlightening conversation with author and illustrator Noah Bodie. They discuss Noah's passion for writing queer dark fantasy, the importance of representation in literature, and the challenges and joys of being a creator. Noah shares insights on his work, his inspiration, and the significant impact of storytelling in prom…

1
Poem Art Protest (with Marla Taviano) 41:14

2M ago41:14

41:14

In this episode of the Liberation is Lit podcast, we chat with returning guest Marla Taviano about our upcoming course, 'Poet to Publish,’ during National Poetry Month. We discuss the importance of self-publishing poetry, the personal and social impact of creative expression, and our efforts to combat book censorship. The conversation covers Marla'…

1
We All Come with Purpose (with Rian Jenkins) 23:46

3M ago23:46

23:46

In this episode, we interview Rian Jenkins, a poet, author, and community activist. Rian discusses her journey as a writer, the various genres she works in, and her inspiration to write. She talks about her upcoming releases, including a children's book and a middle-grade novel, and her initiatives like the all-Black author book drive. Rian also de…

1
You Have to Survive with Brandy del Río 20:59

3M ago20:59

20:59

In this episode of the Liberation is Lit podcast, we sit down with Latina poet and author Brandy Del Río to discuss the transformative power of poetry and storytelling. We explore themes of feminism, Latin history, and the impact of cultural heritage in writing. Del Río shares insights into her creative process, the challenges faced while compiling…

1
Go Where You’re Valued with Digital Draya 17:34

4M ago17:34

17:34

On this episode of the Liberation is Lit podcast, we have an in-depth conversation with Andraya 'Digital Draya' Lashay, founder of Uncut Gems Agency and the Art Pharm Project. Draya shares her inspiring journey from a background in journalism and PR to creating impactful community projects that blend art and agriculture. Discover how Draya's work f…

1
Storytelling is Freedom with Sarah Raughley 23:21

6M ago23:21

23:21

In this episode, we are joined by author Sarah Raughley to discuss her upcoming book, The Queen's Spade. We dive into Sarah's writing process, her inspiration behind retelling the story of Sarah Forbes Bonetta (Queen Victoria’s goddaughter), and the importance of imagination and creativity in storytelling. Sarah shares her experience with historica…

1
Expressing Our Own Humanity (with Nico Lang) 37:29

6M ago37:29

37:29

In this episode, we chat with journalist Nico Lang about their entry into journalism and their book 'American Teenagers.' Nico emphasizes the power of telling queer stories and the need for empathy to counteract harmful political rhetoric against trans youth. The conversation covers the importance of public support for independent journalism, the c…

1
Art as a Vehicle (with SaBrina Jeffcoat) 20:26

7M ago20:26

20:26

In this episode, we have an insightful discussion with Dr. SaBrina Jeffcoat, founder of Royal African Company and a professor of social media technology at UAlbany. Dr. SaBrina shares her journey through the arts community, the motivation behind her fabric and jewelry company, and reflections on her academic pursuits in studio art and digital story…

1
Divinely Inspired Work (with EbonyJanice) 21:00

7M ago21:00

21:00

In this episode, EbonyJanice shares her personal journey of embracing softness and redefining work-life balance as an entrepreneur. She challenges the traditional hustle culture, emphasizing the importance of rest, self-care, and inspired work. Through her experiences, EbonyJanice illustrates the power of setting personal boundaries and following a…

1
Free Woman on a Love Journey with EbonyJanice 28:28

7M ago28:28

28:28

In this episode, we speak with EbonyJanice about her book 'All the Black Girls Are Activists,' the concept of womanism, and the importance of love. EbonyJanice shares her views on the significance of names, freedom, and love, as well as the challenges of (not) balancing softness with activism in the Black community. The conversation delves into the…

1
Curiosity of Defying Your Own Limitations (with Deesha Dyer) 24:16

7M ago24:16

24:16

In this episode, we interview author Deesha Dyer about her new book 'Undiplomatic' which explores themes of imposter syndrome and authenticity. Deesha shares her personal journey from growing up uncertain of her voice as a young Black girl to working in the White House and beyond. The conversation delves into the pressures of conforming to societal…

1
Teaching Each Other How to Be There for Each Other (with Alisa Zipurksy) 36:19

8M ago36:19

36:19

Content warning- Child Sexual Abuse, explicit language In this episode, we chat with Alisa Zipursky about her work with survivors of child sexual abuse and her platform, Healing Honestly. We discuss the journey of healing through storytelling, building supportive communities, and maintaining boundaries. Alisa shares insights from her book 'Healing …

1
Working Magic with Pocket Change (with Zakiya Mickle) 25:45

8M ago25:45

25:45

In this episode, Zakiya dives into the challenges Black women face in the startup phase, especially in securing financial support despite recognition and accolades. She stresses the importance of prioritizing financial stability, the need for community-driven solutions over systemic dependence, and the power of radical love and ancestral guidance. …

1
Support When You're Just Becoming (with Zakiya Mickle) 22:41

8M ago22:41

22:41

Content Warning: Violence Against Youth In this episode we talk with Zakiya, an activist, organizer, and advocate from Columbia, SC. We discuss Zakiya's work with Sowing Seeds, an organization dedicated to providing support and resources for young people, particularly those involved with the juvenile justice system. Zakiya shares her personal story…

1
Sorting the Best From the Rest (with Victoria from BiblioLifestyle) 35:28

8M ago35:28

35:28

In this insightful episode, we speak with Victoria Wood, the creator of BiblioLifestyle and The Reader's Couch podcast, as well as the organizer of the Epigraph Lit Fest. Victoria shares her inspiring journey of transitioning from a healthcare career to a literary passion, her experiences as an immigrant, and the development of her various book-rel…

1
Legacy of Faith, Hope, and Justice (with Dr. Artika Tyner) 26:24

8M ago26:24

26:24

In this episode, we sit with Dr. Artika Tyner, a civil rights attorney, bookstore owner, publisher, writing coach, and children's book author. Dr. Tyner shares her inspiring journey from growing up in the Rondo community in Saint Paul, Minnesota, to founding the 'Planting People Growing Justice Press and Bookstore.' She discusses the importance of …

1
Challenging Imagination Without the Trauma (with Barbra Howard) 31:41

9M ago31:41

31:41

In this episode of the podcast, Tayler interviews Barbara Howard. They discuss Barbara's journey from a political science major with ambitions to change the world to becoming a successful author of clean, cozy mysteries. Barbara talks about her books that explore themes such as gentrification, foster care, and homelessness and how her characters na…

1
Big Kid, Big Imagination (with Cartoon Junkyard) 20:39

9M ago20:39

20:39

In this episode, Tayler welcomes Shawn, the creative mind behind Cartoon Junkyard, home of Mission: Jam and Jelly and Super Rap. They delve into Shawn's passion for animation and storytelling, discussing how his love for imagination and his experiences working in schools inspired him to create stories that encourage children to embrace their creati…

1
Liberation Starts with Consent (with Tammaka Staley) 25:16

9M ago25:16

25:16

In this episode, host we have a profound conversation with poet and storyteller Tammaka about the impact of storytelling and poetry on social change. Tammaka shares insights on their journey as a spoken word performer and artivist, focusing on themes of race, gender, sexuality, and activism. They also discuss their work as a sex educator and founde…

1
Tolstoy of the Zulus (with Moses Oaktree) 31:29

9M ago31:29

31:29

In this episode of the Liberation is Lit podcast, host Tayler Simon speaks with poet AJ Johnson, also known as Moses Oaktree. The discussion revolves around AJ's journey as a writer, the scarcity of Black male representation in literature, and how this has influenced his work. AJ highlights the importance of community and collaboration in improving…

1
If You Have a Mission in Your Heart-- an Interview with Blythe Krueger 10:34

10M ago10:34

10:34

Tayler has an insightful conversation with author and poet Blythe Krueger. They talk about Blythe's journey as a writer, her inspiration for creating impactful children's books and poetry collections, and her approach to addressing mental health and emotions through literature. Blythe also shares her experiences as a yoga instructor, upcoming proje…

1
Write Something Within Your Heart-- Interview with Lauren Wilson 21:08

10M ago21:08

21:08

Author Lauren Wilson discusses her book Afro Bougie Blues, a collection of short stories highlighting diverse Black experiences. Lauren shares her journey from an engineer with a passion for writing to an author whose stories explore profound themes like abortion, PTSD, weight loss, and relationships. She describes how personal experiences and empa…

1
We Don’t Have the Luxury of Slow Waking (with Marla Taviano) 39:18

10M ago39:18

39:18

Marla Taviano talks about her journey from a deeply religious, conservative evangelical Christian background to a more socially aware and activist stance, emphasizing themes of racial justice, deconstruction of faith, and personal growth. Marla, originally living in a predominantly white environment and then in Cambodia for missionary work, recount…

1
Using Your Gifts and Talents to Be of Service (with Cassie Premo Steele) 32:14

10M ago32:14

32:14

This is the episode for writers! Tayler and Cassie discuss Cassie's journey as a poet, writer, and community leader. Cassie shared her thoughts on the intersection of writing and healing, expressing that writing creates profound connections and has the power to make individuals and communities well. Cassie also discusses her novel Beaver Girl, whic…

1
Finding Safe Communities- An Interview with Sawyer Cole 16:49

11M ago16:49

16:49

Sawyer Cole, author and memoirist, shares their journey of writing a memoir about their experiences as a queer person in the South. They discuss the process of writing, the impact it had on their understanding of their own identity, and the challenges they faced. Sawyer hopes that their memoir will provide support and community for queer individual…

1
Growth in Brave Spaces (with Shannon Ivey) 36:36

11M ago36:36

36:36

In this episode, Shannon Ivey shares her journey into storytelling activism and coaching. She discusses the power of stories in amplifying voices, challenging norms, and fostering understanding. Shannon emphasizes the importance of representation and the need for diverse protagonists in storytelling. She also highlights the intersectionality betwee…

1
The Vessel of Me (with KB Brookins) 29:33

11M ago29:33

29:33

When you think about writing and the power of storytelling what comes to mind? Well, for KB Brookins we were able to take a deep dive into their mind in this interview. We discuss social change, focus on marginalized communities and how it all ties into the world of writing. We also take a chance to look into the challenges we face as writers/poets…

1
Deeper than Words (with Evelyn Berry) 34:14

11M ago34:14

34:14

We sit down with poet and author Evelyn Berry about representation, poetry collections you need to read, and what it means to be an activist. Thank you for being part of the Liberation is Lit podcast! If you have stories to share, want to suggest topics, or just want to connect, find us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @liberationislit or visit o…

1
Embracing Joy (with Catherine Joy White) 24:40

11M ago24:40

24:40

In this episode, host Tayler Simon interviews filmmaker and creator Catherine Joy White about her journey as a creator and storyteller. They discuss Catherine's book, Threads of Gold, which explores the interconnected stories of Black women throughout history. They also talk about the power of storytelling in activism and the importance of represen…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Tayler Simon Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen