Today’s Guest: Mark McCraw

In this episode of Kim Talks Books, host Kim Hayden sits down with children’s author Mark to explore the art, inspiration, and impact of writing for young readers. From his early experiences in education to his military service, Mark shares how life’s journeys shaped his storytelling and led him to publish over a dozen children’s books and three anthologies.

Mark dives into his bestselling book Nicoli Picoli, a whimsical story about a boy navigating a school presentation about pickles, and how it teaches lessons about research, math, problem-solving, and resilience in the face of embarrassment. Beyond humor and adventure, the book also encourages discussions on bullying, nicknames, and classroom participation.

The conversation goes beyond a single story, highlighting Mark’s mission to promote literacy, learning, and legacy. He shares insights on self-publishing, collaborating with illustrators, and bringing books to military families and children across communities. Listeners will also hear how Mark’s experiences as a teacher, pastor, and corrections officer inform his writing and engagement with young readers.

Tune in to discover how children’s literature can inspire curiosity, foster learning, and leave a lasting legacy, one pickle (or book) at a time.

• Nicoli Picoli
• Anna's Amazing Alaskan Adventure
• Babbling Betty
• Brains Over Brawn
• Did You Come Home For Lunch
• Eli's Shenanigans
• It Happens!
• I Was Just About To...
• Living On A Military Base
• The Problem Is
• Rules, Rules, Rules!
• The Toilet Paper Caper of 2020

🌐 Stay Connected

Website https://www.markmccraw.com/

Today’s Guest: Kim Nugent

Kim emphasizes the importance of seeing potential in every individual, whether it’s guiding students, supporting incarcerated individuals, or fostering creativity and leadership in the workplace. This episode is a masterclass in using literature to drive real-world impact.

In this inspiring episode of Kim Talks Books, Kim Nugent dives deep into the journey of becoming a professional author and leveraging books as powerful tools for mentorship and transformation. From sharing her personal story of writing nine books to exploring innovative educational programs in prisons, Kim highlights how literature can be more than just words—it can be a catalyst for change.

• From Prison to Possibilities: Paving Your Path
• From Corrections to Careers: Today's Foodservice Workforce

🌐 Stay Connected

Website https://drnugentspeaks.com/

Today’s Guest: Nobert Heuser

Whether you’re curious about your own relationship with caffeine, seeking strategies for healthier living, or simply fascinated by the science of addiction, this episode is packed with knowledge and actionable takeaways.

In this episode of Kim Talks Books, host Kim Hayden sits down with Norbert Norbert to explore the surprising world of addiction—beyond drugs and alcohol—and the hidden dangers of caffeine. From his early experiences as a management consultant in Germany to a life-changing discovery about food and behavioral addictions, Norbert shares his journey of understanding how humans can become addicted to products, people, and processes—the “Three P’s.”

Norbert explains why caffeine and sugar are among the most addictive substances in the world, backed by scientific studies from Switzerland, Australia, and beyond. He shares alarming research about the effects of caffeine on unborn babies, children, and the brain, and discusses practical strategies to recognize and overcome addiction.

• Coffee Addiction & Caffeinism: Every Coffee-Drinker is a Drug Addict

🌐 Stay Connected

Email improveyourlifewithnorbert@gmail.com

Website https://www.nosittingonthesideline.com/