Into the FOLD: A Books and Lit Fest Podcast

Jael and Lin are joined by literary agent CeCe Lyra to talk about writing to market. What is writing to market? Should you do it? How should you do it? About CeCe LyraCecilia “CeCe” Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates representing a range of fiction and nonfiction authors writing for the adult market. Born and raised bilingual and bicultural in Rio de Janeiro, CeCe is passionate about representing under and misrepresented voices.She is a member of the Association of American Literary Agents (AALA) and a co-host of the podcast The Shit No One Tells You About Writing, which has over four million downloads. A mixed-race Latina, CeCe is a proud member of Latinx in Publishing. She is also a recovering lawyer but asks that you do not hold that against her. (https://cecilialyra.com/)Jael, Lin & CeCe's Top 3 Tips for Writing to Market:1. Write what you love. Remember your goals and priorities.2. Study what's selling in the market.3. Read books like a writer.If you have questions for Jael & Lin, submit them to itf@thefoldcanada.org and we may answer them in a future episode!If you've enjoyed this podcast and would like to support the work of the FOLD, please consider a donating at https://www.thefoldcanada.org/donate.Podcast Page: https://www.thefoldcanada.org/intothefoldWebsite: https://www.thefoldcanada.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_foldFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FestivalofLiteraryDiversity

We are coming up on this year's Canada Reads, Canada's annual battle of the books. Five Canadian celebrities each choose one book by a Canadian author, then duke it out to determine which book all of Canada should read.Jael is a Canada Reads superfan, and in this episode of Into the FOLD, she and Lin dive into what makes Canada Reads so special and why you should be a fan too.Be a part of the Canada Reads fun by joining our Canada Reads reading challenge on Beanstack! Join the challenge, read one of the listed books, and be entered for a chance to win a Kobo Libra eReader! Visit ⁠thefoldcanada.org/foldreads⁠ to learn more.Jael's Tips for Enjoying Canada Reads:1. Join FOLD's Canada Reads challenge on Beanstack. Read at least one book (preferably all of them!) so you're familiar with it when watching the show. 2. Block off time in your schedule to watch live. (Airs April 13-16, 10am ET.)3. Tune into Jael's Instagram Lives after each episode to hear her hot takes. (instagram.com/jaelrichardson)If you have questions for Jael & Lin, submit them to ⁠itf@thefoldcanada.org⁠ and we may answer them in a future episode!If you've enjoyed this podcast and would like to support the work of the FOLD, please consider donating at ⁠https://www.thefoldcanada.org/donate⁠.Podcast Page: ⁠https://www.thefoldcanada.org/intothefold⁠Website: ⁠https://www.thefoldcanada.org⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/the_fold⁠Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/FestivalofLiteraryDiversity

February is the month of romance at FOLD! In this episode, romance author Farah Heron joins Jael and Lin to talk about romance novels and spice levels.FOLD's February Reading Challenge is romance by a queer male author. Read our book recommendations at thefoldcanada.org/readingchallenge2026. Track your reading on Beanstack! Visit thefoldcanada.org/foldreads to learn how to join our online reading community.About Farah HeronFarah Heron is a critically acclaimed author of romantic comedies for adults and teens. Her books have been named best book of the year by CBC books, USA Today, and NPR. She writes romantic comedies and young adult romances full of huge South Asian families, delectable food, and most importantly, brown people falling stupidly in love. Her books include Accidentally Engaged, Jana Goes Wild, and A Little Holiday Fling. She lives in Toronto with her family and her cats. (https://farahheron.com/)Jael, Lin & Farah's Tips for Writing Spicy Scenes:1. Understand the purpose of your spicy scenes. Do you want to further the plot or character development? Is it only meant to be titillating? Make sure you write to that purpose.2. Make sure the characters have an emotional bond on the page that correspond to their physical actions. Don't only describe the physical activity, also show what the characters are feeling in the moment.3. Make sure the writing is good and appropriate for what the purpose of the scene is. If you have questions for Jael & Lin, submit them to itf@thefoldcanada.org and we may answer them in a future episode!If you've enjoyed this podcast and would like to support the work of the FOLD, please consider donating at https://www.thefoldcanada.org/donate.Podcast Page: https://www.thefoldcanada.org/intothefoldWebsite: https://www.thefoldcanada.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_foldFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FestivalofLiteraryDiversity

New Year, New Reading Challenges! Jael and Lin talk about how difficult it can be to make and keep new year resolutions, including reading challenges. But here at FOLD, we want to make reading as easy and enjoyable as possible!Join us on Beanstack where there are multiple reading challenges to meet the needs of every reader. Visit thefoldcanada.org/foldreads to learn more!Jael & Lin's Tips for Keeping New Year's Resolutions:1. Instead of making a resolution intended to last the whole year, set a goal for one month. The shorter time period makes it easier to stick to the resolution and you can re-evaluate after.2. Don't give up if you don't meet your goal. If you miss a day, just start again the next day. Just keep trying.3. Make your resolution a mindset or attitude that you want to guide your year. Put it on a sticky note where you'll see it every day.4. Understand your why. Why is this a goal you want to pursue? Understand the reason behind the goal will help keep you motivated.If you have questions for Jael & Lin, submit them to itf@thefoldcanada.org and we may answer them in a future episode!If you've enjoyed this podcast and would like to support the work of the FOLD, please consider donating at https://www.thefoldcanada.org/donate.Podcast Page: https://www.thefoldcanada.org/intothefoldWebsite: https://www.thefoldcanada.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_foldFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FestivalofLiteraryDiversity

Book marketing and the way readers choose new books has changed significantly in the last decade. Social media has created more personalized streams to find new authors, with many book influencers taking a hobby and a love of reading and turning it into a full-fledged business.On today’s episode of Into the FOLD, Jael, Lin and Jessica Rampersad talk about how to break into the exciting but sometimes intimidating world of social media book influencing, both as a prospective influencer and as an author.Jess’s Tips for Breaking Into the Book Influencing World:For new influencers, take the time to build a strong first impression. Create content that shows you’re involved in an author’s niche and that your network will be well connected to share relevant posts.As an author, understand your goals before reaching out to influencers and personal assistants. Whether it’s coordinating for a launch or growing your social media following, know what you’re asking for before you start the conversation.For everyone, remember it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Building a platform and relationships takes time and repetition. Be prepared to put in the work.If you have questions for Jael & Lin, submit them to itf@thefoldcanada.org and we may answer them in a future episode!If you've enjoyed this podcast and would like to support the work of the FOLD, please consider donating at https://www.thefoldcanada.org/donate.Podcast Page: https://www.thefoldcanada.org/intothefoldWebsite: https://www.thefoldcanada.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_foldFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FestivalofLiteraryDiversity

How many shopping days are left until Christmas? At this time of year, it feels like everyone from big box book stores to indie authors selling books from their living room is promoting a sale. But how do you know which book to choose for your loved ones? And are books even a good gift to give?On today’s episode of Into the FOLD, Jael, Lin, and FOLD’s Kids Program Coordinator Ardo Omer talk about why holiday gift giving can be a joy and a struggle. While they love books, they agree books may not always be the right gift for everyone on your shopping list.Jael, Lin & Ardo's Gift Giving Suggestions for 2025:BooksDetective Aunty by Uzma JalaluddinOne Day Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This by Omar El AkkadWaiting To Be Arrested At Night by Tahir Hamut IzgilYou Can Be An Activist by Charlene Rocha and Mary Beth LeatherdaleBlack Boys Like Me: Confrontations with Race, Identity, and Belonging by Matthew R. MorrisLittle You by Richard Van CampThe Inscrutable Mr. Yang by Lindo ForbesOnly Mostly Dead by Alli TempleGaysians by Mike CuratoInternational editions and translated versions of your dearest reader’s favourite bookOther GiftsBookish clothing and merch (like FOLD Apparel!)Gift cards to your favourite indie bookstoreTickets or passes to upcoming bookish eventsDonations to charitable organizations supporting literacy and diversity in publishingLibrary passports Reading logs If you have questions for Jael & Lin, submit them to itf@thefoldcanada.org and we may answer them in a future episode!If you've enjoyed this podcast and would like to support the work of the FOLD, please consider a donation at https://www.thefoldcanada.org/donate.Podcast Page: https://www.thefoldcanada.org/intothefoldWebsite: https://www.thefoldcanada.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_foldFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FestivalofLiteraryDiversity

Literary festivals are in a crisis moment right now. Funding is drying up, readers are tightening their budgets, and with new festivals and book cons popping up, the money that is still available is being spread thinner than ever. On today’s episode of Into the FOLD, Jael and Lin look at what goes on behind the scenes in planning a literary festival, how to organize and program with longevity in mind, and what you need to remember when interacting with other literary festivals in your niche or geographic area.Jael & Lin's Top 3 Tips for Lit Fest Organizers: 1. Make sure you’re programming with purpose, not just “because that’s how we’ve always done it.”2. If you’re starting a new festival, understand what your mission is and be open and honest about it.3. Don’t be afraid to reach out to other festivals and events about possible collaboration and joint learning opportunities.If you have questions for Jael & Lin, submit them to ⁠itf@thefoldcanada.org⁠ and we may answer them in a future episode!If you've enjoyed this podcast and would like to support the work of the FOLD, please consider a donating at ⁠https://www.thefoldcanada.org/donate⁠.Podcast Page: ⁠https://www.thefoldcanada.org/intothefold⁠Website: ⁠https://www.thefoldcanada.org⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/the_fold⁠Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/FestivalofLiteraryDiversity⁠

Jael and Lin pit literary festivals against book conventions, with this episode's guest, Melissa Saavedra, founder of Steamy Lit Con. We talk about the difference between literary festivals and book conventions, some of the challenges we face as organizers, and what lessons we can learn from each other.About Melissa SaavedraMelissa Saavedra (she/her) is the founder of Steamy Lit, a romance literary collective dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices and celebrating self-love through storytelling. Melissa launched Steamy Lit in 2021 with the debut of The Steam Box, a romance book subscription box that has since gained a loyal following for its commitment to inclusivity and sexual empowerment. When she’s not curating must-read romances or running her bookstore, Melissa can be found enjoying tequila on the beach or spending time with her beloved dogs. (https://www.steamylit.com/about)Jael, Lin, and Melissa's Top 3 Tips for Organizing Book Events:Think of the reader experience, and draw from book con or lit fest models as appropriate.Treat the authors with respect and care.Don't just create events to fill time, craft an experience for everyone in attendance.If you have questions for Jael & Lin, submit them to itf@thefoldcanada.org and we may answer them in a future episode!If you've enjoyed this podcast and would like to support the work of the FOLD, please consider a donating at https://www.thefoldcanada.org/donate.Podcast Page: https://www.thefoldcanada.org/intothefoldWebsite: https://www.thefoldcanada.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_foldFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FestivalofLiteraryDiversity

When the world is on fire, reading sometimes feels like a luxury we can't afford. Jael and Lin can commiserate. They talk about mood reading, giving yourself permission to read what you want, and how authors can use reading to inform their writing.Jael & Lin's Top 3 Tips for Mood Reading: Don't be afraid to DNF if a book isn't working for you.Explore different formats that fit your lifestyle.Understand how your reading affects your writing.If you have questions for Jael & Lin, submit them to itf@thefoldcanada.org and we may answer them in a future episode!If you've enjoyed this podcast and would like to support the work of the FOLD, please consider a donating at https://www.thefoldcanada.org/donate.Podcast Page: https://www.thefoldcanada.org/intothefoldWebsite: https://www.thefoldcanada.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_foldFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FestivalofLiteraryDiversity

Jael and Lin are joined by queer romance author Alli Temple to talk about two popular fandoms: Taylor Swift and the K-pop group Stray Kids. We chat about creating a community of fans, presenting an authentic version of ourselves, and the power of merch.Alli Temple is an indie author with 18 queer fantasy and romance titles published since 2018. She thrives on chaos, feelings, writing on instinct, and talking to anyone who will listen about kpop, kdramas, and her adorable pack of rescue pets. She lives with her very patient husband in Etobicoke. (allisontemplebooks.com)Jael, Lin & Alli's Top 3 Tips for Marketing (lessons from fandoms): Build a relationship with readers.Have a clear goal for each marketing activity.Define your author persona.If you have questions for Jael & Lin, submit them to itf@thefoldcanada.org and we may answer them in a future episode!If you've enjoyed this podcast and would like to support the work of the FOLD, please consider a donating at https://www.thefoldcanada.org/donate.Podcast Page: https://www.thefoldcanada.org/intothefoldWebsite: https://www.thefoldcanada.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_foldFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FestivalofLiteraryDiversity

One month after the 10th annual Festival of Literary Diversity, Jael and Lin reconvene to debrief about how it went. Our favourite moments, some behind the scenes drama, and what we're looking forward to in the future. Shop FOLD Apparel: ⁠https://fold-apparel.myshopify.com/Podcast Page: ⁠thefoldcanada.org/intothefold⁠Website: ⁠thefoldcanada.org⁠Instagram: ⁠@the_fold⁠Facebook: ⁠@FestivalOfLiteraryDiversity⁠X: ⁠@TheFOLD_

As we get closer to the 10th annual Festival of Literary Diversity, the FOLD team talks about what we're excited about, what we're nervous about, and how we're managing our mental health.The 2025 Festival of Literary Diversity runs from April 27 - May 4, 2025. Virtual events take place from April 27-30. In-person events take place from May 1-4 in downtown Brampton, ON. For virtual festival passes, visit fold2025.vfairs.comFor in-person festival passes and tickets, visit fold2025.eventbrite.caShop FOLD Apparel: ⁠fold-apparel.myshopify.com/Podcast Page: ⁠TheFoldCanada.org/IntoTheFold⁠Website: ⁠TheFoldCanada.org⁠Instagram: ⁠@the_fold⁠Facebook: ⁠@FestivalOfLiteraryDiversity⁠X: ⁠@TheFOLD_

Episode 5 of Into the FOLD is all about virtual versus in-person events. One silver lining of the global pandemic is the shift into virtual programming, and the FOLD is committed to continuing offering virtual events. Watch this episode to learn why virtual programming is so important to the mission of the FOLD.Ardo Omer, the FOLD's Kids Program Coordinator, joins Jael and Lin to talk about the unique opportunities virtual events can present to students and kidlit authors.Ardo's Top Shelf Books:- River Mumma by Zalika Reid-Benta- Empire of Wild by Cherie Dimaline- Babel by R.F. KuangShop FOLD Apparel: https://fold-apparel.myshopify.com/Podcast Page: ⁠TheFoldCanada.org/IntoTheFold⁠Website: ⁠TheFoldCanada.org⁠Instagram: ⁠@the_fold⁠Facebook: ⁠@FestivalOfLiteraryDiversity⁠X: ⁠@TheFOLD_

In episode 4 of Into the FOLD, Jael and Lin dive into finances! Learn about the nitty gritty of financing a literary festival in Canada, including some uncomfortable truths about money.Sam Clarke, the FOLD's Volunteer and Audience Engagement Coordinator, joins Jael and Lin with helpful tips for other arts organizations looking for funding. Sam's Top Shelf Books: Sunshine Nails by Mai Nguyen Love, Lies, and Cherry Pie by Jackie Lau Lesser Known Monsters of the 21st Century by Kim FuPodcast Page: ⁠TheFoldCanada.org/IntoTheFold⁠Website: ⁠TheFoldCanada.org⁠Instagram: ⁠@the_fold⁠Facebook: ⁠@FestivalOfLiteraryDiversity⁠X: ⁠@TheFOLD_

Back in November, the FOLD team read 21 Thing You May Not Know About the Indian Act by Bob Joseph. This bonus episode of Into the FOLD is our discussion of the book, the thoughts and questions it raised, and how it has added to our understanding of Indigenous relations.As a note, we acknowledge that none of us on the team are Indigenous, and so we've to come to this book and this topic with a spirit of learning. We may get things wrong or say things out of ignorance, though that is not our intention. We welcome comments and feedback from our Indigenous listeners and hope that we can engage in conversation with grace. Thank you.Podcast Page: TheFoldCanada.org/IntoTheFoldWebsite: TheFoldCanada.orgInstagram: @the_foldFacebook: @FestivalOfLiteraryDiversityX: @TheFOLD_

In this episode, Jael and Lin talk about how author are invited to participate in the festival. Special Guest: Amanda Leduc, Author and Disability Rights Advocate. Former Communications Coordinator at the FOLD. Top Shelf Books: A Mind Spread Out on the Ground by Alisha Elliott Pacifique by Sarah L. Taggart Her Body and Other Parties by Carmen Maria Machado This episode is sponsored by Sheridan College’s Honours Bachelor of Creative Writing and Publishing, a four-year degree that prepares students for a career in both writing and publishing. Visit SheridanCollege.ca for more information. If you've enjoyed this podcast and would like to support the work of the FOLD, please consider a donating at TheFoldCanada.org/Donate. Podcast Page: TheFoldCanada.org/IntoTheFold Website: TheFoldCanada.org Instagram: @the_fold Facebook: @FestivalOfLiteraryDiversity X: @TheFOLD_

In this inaugural episode of the podcast, Jael and Lin talk about a decade of change--in the publishing industry and in the FOLD. Special guest: Ardo Omer, FOLD's Kids Program Coordinator Top Shelf Books: Saints and Misfits by S.K. Ali The Silence of Bones by June Hur The Field Guide to the North American Teenager by Ben Philippe This episode is sponsored by Sheridan College’s Honours Bachelor of Creative Writing and Publishing, a four-year degree that prepares students for a career in both writing and publishing. Visit SheridanCollege.ca for more information. If you've enjoyed this podcast and would like to support the work of the FOLD, please consider a donating at TheFoldCanada.org/Donate. Podcast Page: TheFoldCanada.org/IntoTheFold Website: TheFoldCanada.org Instagram: @the_fold Facebook: @FestivalOfLiteraryDiversity X: @TheFOLD_

Welcome to Season 2 of Into the FOLD! This season Jael Richardson and Hudson Lin are back with honest conversations about the book and publishing industry. In episode 1, Jael & Lin tackle the truth behind author marketing--authors have to do it themselves. They both share their "welcome to publishing" moments and explore some of the differences between trad and indie publishing.Into the FOLD's new Ask Me Anything segment answers questions submitted by listeners about marketing.Now that Twitter is useless where should writers be?How do you come up with social media content?How do I market my book after it's launch period?Should I hire a freelance publicist for my next book?Jael & Lin's Top 3 Tips for Marketing:Have a high res headshot and bios of varying lengths.Have a website and a way for people to contact you.Develop a system to reuse content from readers.If you've enjoyed this podcast and would like to support the work of the FOLD, please consider a donating at https://www.thefoldcanada.org/donate.Podcast Page: https://www.thefoldcanada.org/intothefoldWebsite: https://www.thefoldcanada.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_foldFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FestivalofLiteraryDiversity