Join us for this month’s Second Sunday Presents as we welcome Dian Seidel for an engaging conversation about DIY Book Festivals and how authors, educators, and literary communities can create meaningful events without a huge budget or corporate backing. Dian shares practical tips for organizing successful festivals, building community partnerships, attracting authors and readers, and creating memorable experiences that celebrate books and storytelling.

Whether you’re an indie author, teacher, librarian, or book lover dreaming of hosting your own literary event, this episode is packed with inspiration and real-world advice to help you get started. Tune in to learn how grassroots book festivals can connect communities, support local authors, and keep the love of reading alive.

For more information about Dian and our other local authors in the program, go to Kensington Row Authors.

In this episode, we sit down with Patrick B. Simpson to discuss his newly released novel, Reilly: A Truman Pierce Novel. We dive into the return of Truman Pierce, the emotional stakes behind the story, and Patrick’s approach to crafting modern noir fiction filled with mystery, grit, and heart. Patrick also shares insights into his writing process, the evolution of the Truman Pierce series, and what readers can expect next.

Patrick B. Simpson is the author of multiple novels and short stories, including Pierce and Absolution. His work has been praised for blending classic noir atmosphere with contemporary crime storytelling.

FUN FACT: We interviewed Patrick for his debut novel, Pierce (episode 6 if you missed it).

Listeners can connect with Patrick and learn more about his books at patsimpsonwrites.com. His novels are available through major book retailers, including the Kensington Row Bookshop other bookstores and online book platforms.

In this episode of Second Sunday Presents, Amy L. Watkins takes listeners on a creative journey from Canva to classrooms—and far beyond. Blending her experience as an educator, podcaster, and publishing advocate, Amy shares how simple design tools can transform teaching, storytelling, and community engagement. From creating eye-catching classroom materials to supporting authors and small businesses with accessible design, this conversation highlights the power of creativity in everyday spaces. Whether you’re an educator, writer, or entrepreneur, you’ll walk away inspired to turn your ideas into impactful visuals and meaningful connections.

Second Sunday Presents welcomes Katherine Pickett for a practical and insightful conversation about author websites—what they are, why they matter, and how to make yours work for you. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, Katherine shares tips on creating a site that reflects your voice, connects with readers, and supports your writing goals. From essential pages to common mistakes, this episode is packed with guidance to help you build an online presence that feels authentic and effective.

In this episode, we talk with geologist and author Bob Dover about exploring Washington, D.C. through an unexpected lens—its bridges. In Bridges of Washington, D.C.: A History & Guide, Bob uncovers how geology, geography, and human movement have shaped the city’s growth from the 1700s to today.

We discuss what inspired him to tell D.C.’s story through bridges, how his geology background influences his perspective, and how bridges reflect broader shifts in design, transportation, and culture. Bob also shares a standout bridge story and explains how these structures connect not just places, but people and history.

He reflects on his journey from writing travel narratives to publishing Bridgespotting: A Guide to Bridges that Connect People, Places, and Times, and how that led to this deeper exploration of his hometown.

Find his books through major booksellers and learn more at https://www.bridgespotting.com/ and you can find his signed books locally at https://www.kensingtonrowbookshop.com/

In this special edition of Second Sunday Presents, we’re joined by branding strategist and publishing expert Eric O'Neill for a powerful conversation on what it truly means to build an author brand.

More than logos and color palettes, author branding is about clarity, consistency, and connection. Eric breaks down how writers can define their unique voice, position themselves in the marketplace, and create a cohesive presence across platforms—from websites and social media to book launches and speaking engagements.

Whether you’re a debut author or a seasoned writer ready to level up, this episode offers practical strategies and mindset shifts to help you stand out, build trust with readers, and grow your impact.

Tune in to discover how to move from simply publishing books to building a brand that lasts.

On this episode of Second Sunday Presents, we sit down with Clark Thomas Riley for an inside look at how to turn your book into an audiobook.

From understanding the difference between narration and performance to choosing between DIY recording and hiring a professional team, Clark breaks down the entire audiobook production process. He shares practical insights on recording equipment, preparing your manuscript for audio, budgeting for production, and marketing your finished audiobook to reach new listeners.

Whether you're an indie author, traditionally published writer, or simply audiobook-curious, this episode offers actionable steps to help you expand your story into the fast-growing world of audio.

If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to hear your words come to life, this conversation is your starting point.

In this episode, we talk with Jestina M., author of the children’s book When Prince and Reggie Didn’t Win, a heartfelt story that explores resilience, teamwork, and redefining what it truly means to win. Through the journey of Prince and his brother Reggie, the book offers meaningful lessons for children, parents, educators, and coaches alike.

Jestina shares the inspiration behind the story, her approach to writing for young readers, and why conversations about perseverance and emotional growth matter—both on and off the field. When Prince and Reggie Didn’t Win is available at Kensington Row Books Shop, making it a wonderful local find for families and classrooms.

Event: Book Signing at Barnes & Noble, Potomac Yard on Sunday, February 21st at 1:00 p.m.

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