Best Alvina and Grace Podcasts (2024)

1
BFF 257 Managing Editorial with Andy Ball! 54:27

15h ago54:27

54:27

Grace and Alvina continue their "publishing curriculum" series and welcome special guest Andy Ball, Director of Managing Editorial, to talk about the Managing Editori's role in the publishing process. For the Fortune Cookies segment, they talk about what they're obsessed with right now! See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click h…

1
Episode 256: CHOP SUEY: Deadlines, Friendship Style, and AI! 1:11:33

8d ago1:11:33

1:11:33

Grace and Alvina have an odds and ends episode where they tallk about how they deal with deadlines and time management, what their friendship style is, and two updates in AI in the industry! And, Alison Morris of First Book shares a few book recommendations. See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon membe…

1
Episode 255: Book Production with Lillian Sun! 48:28

15d ago48:28

48:28

Grace and Alvina continue their "publishing curriculum" series and welcome special guest Lillian Sun, Production Director, to talk about the book production process. For the Fortune Cookies segment, they talk about what they're looking forward to reading this summer! See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patr…

1
Endometriosis, Healthcare, and Policy Change: Jessica Grennan's Story on Alvina Talks Shift 27:37

16d ago27:37

27:37

In this week's episode of Alvina Talks Shift, host Alvina Vasquez welcomes old colleague and friend Jessica Grennan, winning political strategist with over two decades of experience and one of the nation’s top experts on statewide ballot measures. She has also worked on federal campaigns, as a targeted legislative campaigner and builder of powerful…

1
Episode 254: Novel Design with Sasha Illingworth! 51:06

23d ago51:06

51:06

Grace and Alvina continue their "publishing curriculum" series and welcome special guest Sasha Illingworth, Associate Creative Director, to talk about the middle grade and young adult book design process, and Sasha shares some tips for aspiring illustrators, and the talk about cover trends. For the Fortune Cookies segment, they talk about what they…

1
Women Leading Agriculture: Taylor Szilagyi on Policy, Education, and Change 32:20

23d ago32:20

32:20

Welcome back to Alvina Talks Shift! Host Alvina Vasquez welcomes guest Taylor Szilagyi. As the Executive Vice President of Colorado Farm Bureau, Taylor is the first woman to lead staff and the first Colorado Native in 57 years. Taylor discusses her inspirations, including her mother and the evolving role of women in agriculture. She reflects on gro…

1
Episode 253: Change! 47:44

1M ago47:44

47:44

Grace and Alvina talk about change--what the major changes in their lives have been, and how one can become better at adjusting to change. For the Fortune Cookie segment, they talk about posting children on social media and privacy issues. See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon member: https://www.patr…

1
Episode 252: Growth Mindset! 58:40

1M ago58:40

58:40

Grace and Alvina are recording together on the day after Grace's 50th birthday! They talk all about the concept of growth mindset and what it means, and if they feel that they themselves have growth mindset. For the Fortune Cookie segment, they discuss birthday wishes and whether it's "game over" for them! See complete show notes at www.bookfriends…

1
Episode 251: CHOP SUEY: Posthumous Publishing, AI and audiobooks, and Fyre Festival of Books 53:57

2M ago53:57

53:57

Grace and Alvina have an odds and ends episode where they tallk about how they feel about posthumous publishing, using AI for audiobooks, and the disaster that was what was dubbed the "Fyre Festival of Books"! They also share a few book recommendations for Asian American Heritage Month. See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click h…

1
Episode 250: Copyediting with Christine Ma! 58:51

2M ago58:51

58:51

Grace and Alvina continue their "publishing curriculum" series and welcome special guest Christine Ma, to talk about the copyediting and proofreading process. For the Fortune Cookie segment, they talk about planning the perfect birthday and/or vacation! See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon member: ht…

1
Episode 249: Picture Book text and art editing and revision with Saho Fujii! 1:26:15

2M ago1:26:15

1:26:15

Grace and Alvina continue their "publishing curriculum" series and welcome special guest Saho Fujii, Executive Art Director, to talk about the picture book editing and revision process. They talk about how picture book illustrators are chosen, Saho shares what she looks for when she reviews sketches, and also shares about her special connection to …

1
Politics, Motherhood, and Running for County Commissioner with Julie Duran Mullica 32:14

2M ago32:14

32:14

In this episode of Alvina Talks Shift, Alvina welcomes Julie Duran Mullica, who is running for Adam's County Commissioner. During their conversation, she shares the personal challenges she faces as a Latina mother running for Adams County commissioner. Julie also discusses the significant pressures of balancing family life with the demands of a pol…

1
Episode 248: Editing and Revision! 1:11:47

2M ago1:11:47

1:11:47

Grace and Alvina continue their "publishing curriculum" series and talk about the writing, editing, and revision process, with a focus on writing, editing, and revising novels. Find out how Grace feels the first time she receives an editorial letter from Alvina! They also finally share their ideas for patreon perks in the Fortune Cookies segment! S…

1
Episode 247: CHOP SUEY: Publishing news, World Happiness, and Think Again 1:10:31

3M ago1:10:31

1:10:31

Grace and Alvina have an odds and ends episode where they discuss the various publishing news including some relating to book banning, they discuss the results of the World Happiness Report, and they talk about the book THINK AGAIN by Adam Grant. And Alison Morris of First Books joins to offer some book recommendations! See complete show notes at w…

1
Episode 246: The Acquisitions Process! 1:09:46

3M ago1:09:46

1:09:46

Grace and Alvina continue their "publishing curriculum" series and talk about the acquisitions process, including what happens at editorial meetings, the mysterious acquisitions committee, red flags for editors, how auctions work, and more! See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon member: https://www.pat…

1
Reproductive Health Care Access for Communities of Color 30:37

3M ago30:37

30:37

In this powerful episode of Alvina Talks Shift, hosts Alvina Vasquez welcomes Adrienne Mansanares. CEO of Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains. They explore the challenges and opportunities within philanthropy and leadership for people of color. Adrienne highlights the underrepresentation of young people of color in philanthropic spaces and th…

1
Episode 245: Personality Tests! 52:16

3M ago52:16

52:16

Grace and Alvina both take two different personality tests (the Myers Briggs and Big Five Tests) and talk about their results and the science behind personality tests in general. See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon member: https://www.patreon.com/Bookfriendsforever1. See info about Grace Lin's books…

1
From the White House to the Community : The Impact of Denise Maes 29:21

3M ago29:21

29:21

In this episode of Alvina Talks Shift, Alvina Vasquez welcomes Denise Maes, who shares her inspiring journey from a Mexican American growing up in New Mexico to a high-ranking position at the White House. Denise reflects on the significance of providing a supportive space for women in the Mexican American community and the importance of mentorship.…

1
Episode 244: Middle Grade and Market Fluctuations 40:16

3M ago40:16

40:16

Grace and Alvina talk about the slumping middle grade market and talk about how the market fluctuates overall. See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon member: https://www.patreon.com/Bookfriendsforever1. See info about Grace Lin's books here: gracelin.com. Follow us in Instagram: https://www.instagram.c…

1
Driving Progress through Genuine Leadership with Grace Ramirez 29:11

3M ago29:11

29:11

In this week's episode of Alvina Talks Shift, host Alvina Vasquez chats with long-time friend and esteemed guest Grace Ramirez. The discussion delves into the nuances of effective leadership and the paramount importance of fairness, transparency, and communication. Grace shares her rich experience in political engagement and Latino community advoca…

1
Episode 243: CHOP SUEY: Hugo Award controversy, Author’s Equity, and Double Standards 58:38

3M ago58:38

58:38

Grace and Alvina have an odds and ends episode where they discuss the Hugo Award controversy, a new publishing house launching called Author's Equity, and an article about gender parity in publishing. And Alison Morris of First Books joins to offer some book recommendations! See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to becom…

1
Breaking Barriers: Women's Journeys in the Professional World 24:09

3M ago24:09

24:09

In today's episode of Alvina Talks Shift, host Alvina Vasquez welcomes back guest and business partner Susan Morrisey to discuss their experiences as women in the business world. They reflect on the challenges they faced, such as harassment and being pigeonholed, both as women and as a Latina in business. Alvina shares her journey from the male-dom…

1
Episode 242: 5-year Anniversary! 1:01:04

4M ago1:01:04

1:01:04

Grace is back from sabbatical, and she and Alvina celebrate a bit belatedly the five-year anniversary of this podcast! They look back at where they and the publishing industry was five years ago, talk about how the podcast has changed, and where they see things going in another five years. See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Clic…

1
Women's Rights, Policy Battles, and Mentorship with Susan Morrisey 23:41

4M ago23:41

23:41

In this episode of Alvina Talks Shift, Alvina Vasquez interviews guest and business partner Susan Morrisey. Susan shares her experiences working with the late Pat Schroeder, a champion for women's rights and family issues. She reflects on the lengthy battles for policy change, especially in the context of advancing women's rights and childcare. Sus…

1
Episode 241: Moving with Libby Koponen! 40:24

4M ago40:24

40:24

While Grace is on sabbatical, Alvina talked with their friend, author Libby Koponen about moving--how many times they've moved (Libby has moved over 40 times!), their favorite places they've lived, what they've learned, and tips and tricks for moving. See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon member: http…

1
Affordable Housing and Equality with Kathleen Van Voorhis 31:39

4M ago31:39

31:39

In this week's episode of Alvina Talks Shift, host Alvina Vasquez speaks with Kathleen Van Voorhis, CEO of the Community Investment Alliance, about Colorado's Bill 1311, which aims to reduce child poverty by 50% and assist middle-income families through a child tax credit. They examine the bill's potential to affect over 133,000 children, especiall…

1
Episode 240: Upheavals, Slumps and Rekindling Creativity with Laurel Snyder! 1:00:40

4M ago1:00:40

1:00:40

Grace takes a break from her sabbatical to record the podcast in person with Alvina and special guest author Laurel Snyder. They're recording together at Little Shop of Stories in Decatur, GA and talk about upheavals in the publishing industry, what to do when you're in a slump, and how to rekindle creativity. See complete show notes at www.bookfri…

1
The Unseen Forces Shaping Colorado Politics with Scott Wasserman 29:01

4M ago29:01

29:01

In this episode of Alvina Talks Shift, host Alvina Vasquez welcomes back guest Scott Wasserman as they discuss the intricate and often overlooked influences shaping local and state politics. They delve into the collusion of major conservative organizations in Colorado, the impact of their ballot measures on local government funding, and the complex…

1
Episode 239: Big Magic with Shelli R. Johannes! 44:00

4M ago44:00

44:00

While Grace is on sabbatical, Alvina talked with author Shelli R. Johannes about the book BIG MAGIC by Elizabeth Gilbert and how it changed her perspective on writing and publishing. See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon member: https://www.patreon.com/Bookfriendsforever1. See info about Grace Lin's b…

1
Colorado's Unique Political Process with Shad Murib 26:05

4M ago26:05

26:05

In today's episode of Alvina Talks Shift, host Alvina Vasquez welcomes guest Shad Murib, and the two delve into a conversation about the intricate political processes surrounding caucuses in Colorado and their influence on the national stage. Shad sheds light on the complexities of the caucus system, emphasizing the accessibility and participation …

1
Episode 238: Mental Health with Stephen Colman 54:33

5M ago54:33

54:33

While Grace is on sabbatical, Alvina talked with her husband Stephen Colman about his mental health journey, including tips on managing anxiety and depression. See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon member: https://www.patreon.com/Bookfriendsforever1. See info about Grace Lin's books here: gracelin.com…

1
Embracing Real-Life Connections in a Tech-Driven Age with Robert DuRay 32:04

5M ago32:04

32:04

In today's episode of Alvina Talks Shift, host Alvina Vasquez welcomes guest Robert DuRay, a civic strategist and communicator with 16 years of experience, specializes in crafting narratives for businesses, political campaigns, and nonprofit organizations to envision a better world. The two delve into the complex influence of technology on modern s…

1
Episode 237: Bonus episode: How it All Began! 31:08

5M ago31:08

31:08

For this surprise bonus episode, Grace and Alvina drop the very first episode of Book Friends Forever into the feed to celebrate the 5-year anniversary of this podcast! In this episode, recorded back in 2019, Grace and Alvina talk about how they met and also share their new year's resolutions (from 2019!). See complete show notes at www.bookfriends…

1
Episode 236: The Pareto Principle with Jane Kuo! 52:15

5M ago52:15

52:15

Grace and Alvina welcome special guest, author Jane Kuo and they discuss the Pareto Principle and how it might relate to publishing and productivity. See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon member: https://www.patreon.com/Bookfriendsforever1. See info about Grace Lin's books here: gracelin.com. Buy Girl…

1
Building a Community Through Philanthropy with Naomi Amaha 31:40

5M ago31:40

31:40

In this week's episode of Alvina Talks Shift, host Alvina Vasquez sits down with guest Naomi Amaha, an award-winning public affairs leader with a reputation for excellence in public policy and government relations. With more than a decade of experience in advocacy, nonprofit leadership, and civic engagement, she advances systemic change. She is the…

1
Episode 235: CHOP SUEY: ALAYMA, sprayed edges, and banned book awards! 54:28

5M ago54:28

54:28

Grace and Alvina have an odds and ends episode where the discuss the ALA Youth Media Awards, the special effect called sprayed edges, and various news surrounded banned books. And Alison Morris of First Books joins to offer some book recommendations! See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon member: https…

1
Overcoming Systemic Challenges for Women of Color with Bianka Emerson 30:23

5M ago30:23

30:23

In this week's episode of Alvina Talks Shift, host Alvina Vasquez sits down with Bianka Emerson to discuss the systemic challenges that women of color face in the United States. The conversation addresses the phenomenon of "black girl magic," recognizing the resilience and cultural impact of black women in society while not overlooking the issues t…

1
Episode 234: Taiwan Trip! 1:12:01

5M ago1:12:01

1:12:01

Grace and Alvina are together again after Alvina's epic vacation to Taiwan! Alvina shares all about her trip in this episode. See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon member: https://www.patreon.com/Bookfriendsforever1. See info about Grace Lin's books here: gracelin.com. Buy Girl Scout Cookies from Grac…

1
How Finance Shapes Elections with Sandra Fish 26:09

5M ago26:09

26:09

In this week's episode, Alvina Vasquez sits down with seasoned data journalist Sandra Fish to delve into Colorado politics, campaign finance, and voter engagement strategies for the upcoming 2024 elections. Sandra has worked for CPR, KUNC, Roll Call, The Washington Post, and many more credible news outlets. She also taught journalism for eight year…

1
Episode 233: Creating the Creative Life with Anna Alter! 1:00:02

6M ago1:00:02

1:00:02

While Alvina is in Taiwan, Grace welcomes special guest and friend Anna Alter to discuss the children's book industry and how Anna has pivoted to working with ceramics. Find Anna's work here: https://annaalter.com/ See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon member: https://www.patreon.com/Bookfriendsforeve…

1
BFF 232 QUESTIONS WITH GUEST CO-HOST NATASHA TARPLEY 1:20:53

6M ago1:20:53

1:20:53

Alvina is in Taiwan this week. Grace welcomes fellow author Natasha Tarpley. See more about Natasha at her website https://natashatarpleywrites.com See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon member: https://www.patreon.com/Bookfriendsforever1. See info about Grace Lin's books here: gracelin.com…

1
The Impact of Fiscal Policy on Immigrant Communities with Esther Turcios 25:22

6M ago25:22

25:22

Alvina welcomes Esther Turcios, the Deputy Director of the Colorado Fiscal Institute. Esther shares her inspiring journey from aspiring to be a doctor to becoming a leader in fiscal policy, advocating for tax justice, budget, and economic justice. She emphasizes the need for more representation of Latinas and people of color in policy spaces and hi…

1
Episode 231: 2024 New Year Resolutions 54:45

6M ago54:45

54:45

Grace and Alvina look forward to 2024. See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon member: https://www.patreon.com/Bookfriendsforever1. See info about Grace Lin's books here: gracelin.comBy Alvina and Grace

1
Building Thriving Communities: Valerie Nosler Beck on Leadership, Campaigns, and Battling Cancer 28:47

6M ago28:47

28:47

In this heartfelt episode Alvina welcomes dear friend and self-affirming colleague, Valerie Nosler Beck. Val discusses her rich background in politics, her transition from staffer to entrepreneur, and the challenges she's faced, including her current battle with stage three rectal cancer. Val provides insight into the significance of inclusivity an…

1
The Shift in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Perspectives: Insights from Scott Wasserman 34:01

6M ago34:01

34:01

In this thought-provoking episode of Alvina Talks Shift, Alvina is joined by Scott Wasserman, who deeply explores the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through a generational lens. Wasserman conveys the frustration with Israel's global portrayal and the dangers of oversimplified narratives. The conversation reveals his personal struggle as an American J…

1
Episode 230: 2023 Year End Review! 56:12

7M ago56:12

56:12

Grace and Alvina look back on 2023, discuss the highs and lows, and also review how they did on their new year's resolutions! See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon member: https://www.patreon.com/Bookfriendsforever1. See info about Grace Lin's books here: gracelin.com…

1
The Intersection of Law and Democracy with Donald Sherman and Martha Tierney | Part 2 22:12

6M ago22:12

22:12

Join host Alvina Vasquez in part two of her conversation with legal experts Martha Tierney and Donald Sherman, as they delve into their groundbreaking work centered on a critical litigation involving section three of the 14th Amendment. In this episode, Martha and Donald offer a compelling narrative that intertwines personal experiences, profound l…

1
Episode 229: How to Stay Healthy During the Holidays! 59:51

7M ago59:51

59:51

Grace and Alvina talk about how to stay physically and mentally healthy during the holiday season! See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon member: https://www.patreon.com/Bookfriendsforever1. See info about Grace Lin's events for CHINESE MENU here: https://gracelin.com/news-events/…

1
Defending Democracy with Donald Sherman and Martha Tierney | Part 1 18:07

7M ago18:07

18:07

In part one of this two part conversation, political expert Donald Sherman and esteemed election lawyer Martha Tierney join Alvina to discuss the crucial task of safeguarding democracy. Together, they delve deep into the core issues surrounding the January 6th insurrection and the critical legal battles that are essential for fortifying our nation'…

1
Episode 228: Envy and FOMO! 49:55

7M ago49:55

49:55

Grace and Alvina talk about the end of the year and how to try to avoid professional and personal envy and FOMO, but also how to make those feelings work to your advantage. See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon member: https://www.patreon.com/Bookfriendsforever1. See info about Grace Lin's events for …

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Alvina And Grace Podcasts

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