A Shared Reading Podcast launches in Derby: local voices, shared stories, real connection

A Shared Reading Podcast launches in Derby: local voices, shared stories, real connection

Derby Book Festival’s much-loved Shared Reading community programme debuts a new podcast and invites submissions from local writers and prospective guests.

Derby Book Festival’s Shared Reading community programme has launched A Shared Reading Podcast, a new series celebrating the joy of reading and the conversations it sparks. The podcast is hosted by two Shared Reading volunteers, Ellie and Steve, and features local voices and authors from across the East Midlands.

“In our Shared Reading groups we see how reading short pieces together opens up honest, generous conversations,” said Katie Orman, Shared Reading Project Co-ordinator. 

“The podcast brings that atmosphere to a wider audience, inviting listeners to pause, reflect, and feel part of something shared.”

“We read a short poem or piece of prose aloud, then explore what it stirs in us,” added Ellie Blair, volunteer co-host. 

“It’s not about literary critique, it’s about connection, what lines stayed with you, what moments resonated, what memories surfaced.”

The Shared Reading team plans to record and release at least three further episodes over the coming months and is actively seeking sponsorship to sustain the series. 

Call for submissions and guests

We are now inviting short pieces of writing - poems, flash fiction, micro-memoir, or reflective prose that work well when read aloud (typically brief pieces). Selected contributors may be invited to join an episode to discuss their work, or to have their piece read by a host or guest reader.

🔉 Submit your work / express interest as a guest here

🎧 Listen to the podcast here

📧 General enquiries email: shared.reading@derbybookfestival.co.uk 

“We’d especially love to feature Shared Reading participants, local writers and community voices from the East Midlands” said Katie Orman, Shared Reading Project Coordinator. 

“If you know someone who has a short piece of writing or a story to tell, or if that person is you, please get in touch.”

About Shared Reading at Derby Book Festival

Shared Reading brings people together in friendly, facilitated groups to read short texts aloud and talk about what they spark - no prep, no pressure. This community programme runs across Derby and the surrounding area, supporting wellbeing, connection, and a love of words in community settings.

Contact and Information 

Podcast Title: A Shared Reading Podcast by Derby Book Festival

Podcast Hosts: Ellie Blair and Steve Pryce, Shared Reading volunteers

Pilot Episode: released November 2025

Next Episode: due to be released end of January 2026

🎧 Listen: https://asharedreadingpodcastbyderbybookfestival.podbean.com/