Written in the Stars: Books and Beyond highlights and celebrates the people in our community involved with books, writing, and publishing. From poets and romance writers to literary journals and entrepreneurs, we explore a multitude of stories and storytellers. Join us as we follow them on their journeys with the written word.
Latest episodes
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29 min
Windows to the World: Exploring Comics From Around the Globe
On this episode, MSU Comics Studies Librarian Jason Larson is in studio to discuss how the university’s extensive comic book collection supports research, teaching, and public lear…
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30 min
Sole Too Deep, Soul to Speak
On this episode, author, educator, and scholar Dr. LeConté Dill is in studio to discuss her poetry collection Soul Survivors. Dill explores how the places like Oakland, Atlanta, an…
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24 min
Healthy Finances: Nursing Your Nest Egg
On this episode, Tony Bailey joins hosts Ami Ewald and Robin Moore in studio, to share how smart investing and consistent financial habits helped him build long-term wealth. He exp…
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25 min
Stories in the Blink of an Eye
This episode explores the art of flash writing with author Jane Hertenstein, who shares how short, meaningful stories can capture powerful moments from our lives. She discusses how…
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31 min
The Secret Garden We Call Lansing
In this episode, outgoing Lansing Poet Laureate Ruelaine Stokes shares how her love of writing began in childhood and grew into a passion for poetry. She also talks about her proje…
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30 min
Conventional Brushstrokes With Lucy A. Synk
This episode explores the creative world of art, illustration, and book design with Lucy A. Synk, an experienced artist known for her work with publishers and convention exhibition…
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25 min
Bound to Be Great: 2026 Michigan Notable Books & Event
This episode highlights the 2026 Michigan Notable Books, featuring works by Michigan authors or those that capture the spirit of The Great Lake State. Guests Adam Oster and Mindy B…
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19 min
Hot off the Hometown Press: LICZ 2026
On this episode, hosts John Szilagyi and Robin Moore are joined in studio by Jimmy Coyer, to discuss the upcoming Lansing Independent Comics and Zine Fest. This homespun literary f…
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24 min
Michigan Writers Unite: A Rally of Writers Conference
This episode highlights the upcoming 39th Rally of Writers on April 11th at Lansing Community College’s West Campus. Guests Stephen Mack Jones and Rob Edwards discuss the realities…
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26 min
Silenced on the Shelf: Book Bans & Censorship
Book bans and challenges have reached unprecedented levels, with the American Library Association reporting 2,452 unique titles challenged in 2024. In this episode, the hosts engag…
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20 min
Kid Size Feelings: Meet Willow B With Cirea Strode
This episode features Cirea Strode, a program manager at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, who blends her professional work with her passion for supporting chil…
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29 min
Poetry, Publishing, and Parenting With Kris Amos-Lopez
On the next episode, hosts Ami and Robin welcome the multifaceted Kris Amos; a poet, writer, counselor, and father, who has navigated the realms of poetry and children's literature…
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33 min
Filmmaker Jesse Edwards Returns With 'The Wildman of Shaggy Creek'
In this episode, our friend and LCC alumni Jesse Edwards returns to discuss his newest movie The Wildman of Shaggy Creek. We dive deep into adapting a book for the screen, the pres…
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25 min
Follow the Piper Into the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure
Amy Piper, is a travel writer and blogger who has published two books: 100 Things to do in Lansing before you die and her most recent is Secret Michigan: A Guide to the Weird, Wond…
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33 min
Storytelling and the Impact of Public Broadcasting with Robin Pizzo
Robin Pizzo is a thought leader, content creator, writer, educator, and entrepreneur. She leads the education efforts of WKAR Public Media, the PBS and NPR affiliate serving Michig…
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29 min
Michigan Notable Books, Celebrating Literature From the Great Lake State
This podcast episode delves into the Michigan Notable Books Program, a distinguished initiative by the Library of Michigan that celebrates noteworthy publications from the state. G…
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26 min
A Rally of Writers: Celebrating the Written Word
This podcast episode delves into the intricacies of the upcoming A Rally of Writers conference, a prominent literary event in Michigan, renowned for its extensive offerings aimed a…
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28 min
The Mosaic of Life at The New Citizens Press With Rina "RiRi" Risper
The focal point of this podcast episode lies in our illuminating conversation with Rina "RiRi" Risper, who is not only a publisher but also a prominent advocate for underserved and…
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47 min
Odawa and Lakotah Elder, Warren Petoskey: Writer, Lecturer, Traditional Musician, and MInister
This episode features an enlightening discussion with Warren Petoskey, wherein we delve into the profound themes of identity, historical trauma, and the healing power of storytelli…
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23 min
From Chickens to Careers: Inspiring STEAM Success
A Sparkle in Their Eyes: Raising Talented, Diverse Students in STEAM Careers by Dr. Veronica Wilkerson-Johnson, an insightful guide for parents aiming to help their children excel…