Podcasts*
Episodes as a guest:
This is a powerful story about someone that experienced trauma as a child. Andrea shares her journey of transformation of someone that felt shame as a victim into someone that is empowered. Writing and illustrating have enabled her to find her creative outlet. Andrea shares the following nuggets of life wisdom:
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no one is an island
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there is light
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keep going, there is hope
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we always have the key to the light
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find the inner peace
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connect to something bigger than us
In this episode, Reggie D. Ford interviews Andrea Torrey Balsara, an award-winning author and illustrator who has transitioned from creating picture books to exploring the depths of energy medicine. Andrea shares her journey of integrating her artistic talents with her newfound passion for Reiki and energy healing, discussing how it has helped her heal from childhood trauma. The conversation delves into her acclaimed book, The Great & the Small, and the personal and creative growth that led to its creation. As a volunteer at a donkey sanctuary, Andrea also shares insights into the autobiographical nature of her characters, the healing power of compassion, and the lessons learned from working with donkeys. She emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and offers inspiring advice for sexual assault survivors, exploring the intersection of writing, healing, and the resilience of the human spirit.
If you're a fan of thought-provoking young adult fiction that tackles big themes, you'll want to check out our latest episode of Reading with Your Kids. We had the pleasure of chatting with author Andrea Torrey Balsara about her urban fantasy novel "The Great and the Small," which blends elements of dystopia and features some fascinating animal characters.
Andrea shared the fascinating backstory behind her decision to center the story around rats - she was intrigued by the historical impact of the bubonic plague and saw rats as a formidable "opponent" for humanity. But beyond the unique premise, the book delves into powerful themes like trauma, blind obedience, and the dangers of authoritarianism.
On today's extra special episode I got to talk with Andrea "A.T." Balsara about the second edition of her YA novel The Great And The Small for her first ever podcast appearance!
We delve into this story of friendship along side Andrea's equally fascinating personal narrative and her personal writing journey, you won't want to miss out!
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On this episode, we talk with Author, Illustrator and Mental Health/Creativity Coach Andrea Torrey Balsara .. She is an award-winning children's and young adult author/illustrator, motivational speaker, and energy medicine practitioner. Her passion is to inspire joy through storytelling and energy healing, helping people-of-all-ages to walk “the Hero’s Journey” in real life. She writes and illustrates for young children and is also a painter, an avid amateur explorer of quantum physics, and a keen environmentalist. She advocates for the humane treatment of animals and regularly volunteers at a donkey sanctuary where she uses energy medicine to help previously neglected and abused animals regain their health and vitality. It’s quite a story. Enjoy.
In this episode of UnhousedUSA, Dr. Beth Fisher engages in a profound conversation with author and visual artist Andrea Torrey Balsara. They explore the intersection of literature, emotional resilience, and the experiences of children facing housing challenges. Andrea shares insights on how her storytelling empowers young readers, emphasizing the importance of representation, emotional intelligence, and the connection between literature and real-life struggles. The discussion highlights practical advice for parents and educators on supporting children in navigating their emotions and challenges, ultimately encouraging a sense of hope and resilience.
I am a member of Podmatch* and can be booked there for topics such as:
~The Hero's Journey in Art and Life
~Finding the Joy: Writing for Children and Youth
~Reframing "Failure" and Finding Your True Self
~Recovering from Trauma--Reclaiming Your Life
~How Art, Writing and Living Your Best Life Intersect
To become a member of Podmatch as a host, guest or both, CLICK HERE
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