Podcast Summary: Barely Famous – "Can't Get Enough with Kennedy Ryan" (Released June 13, 2025)

Host: Kale (Kail Lowry)
Guest: Kennedy Ryan, acclaimed author of the "Skyland" series

1. Introduction and Book Release

Kale welcomes Kennedy Ryan to the Barely Famous Podcast, expressing her excitement about the interview and Kennedy's latest book, "Can't Get Enough". Kennedy shares her mixed emotions surrounding the release, describing it as both "excited" and "bittersweet" (01:38). She reflects on how concluding the "Skyland" series feels akin to leaving friends behind in a cherished place, while also looking forward to new writing endeavors.

2. Concluding the "Skyland" Series and Future Projects

When discussing the decision to end the series, Kennedy emphasizes her intentional focus on three distinct women, each making unique life choices:

“I wanted this series to depict three women who make very different life choices... they completely accept one another 100%.” (02:22)

She elaborates on the feminist underpinnings of her work, highlighting the importance of respecting each woman's vocational and personal decisions. Kennedy reveals she is already penning her next book, hinting at continued exploration of her beloved characters and their evolving lives.

3. Supporting Representation and Fellow Authors

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the solidarity among authors, particularly within the Romance genre. Kennedy underscores the importance of promoting Black and Brown authors to increase visibility and representation:

“I'm very intentional about promoting black and brown authors because of reduced visibility.” (06:07)

She shares heartfelt anecdotes about established authors like Emily, Abby, Tia Williams, and Jasmine Guillory, who have actively supported her career. This mutual support system not only fosters a sense of community but also paves the way for diverse voices to flourish in the literary world.

4. Authentic Writing Process and Representation

Kennedy delves into her immersive writing process, which parallels her background in journalism. She emphasizes thorough research, including interviewing multiple families and engaging in master classes relevant to her characters' professions (21:35). This meticulous approach ensures authentic portrayal, especially when addressing sensitive topics like autism.

Addressing the depiction of a woman childless by choice, Kennedy explains her intent to challenge societal norms and highlight reproductive agency:

“Me making a choice not to have children is reproductive agency.” (16:28)

She thoughtfully incorporates preferred terminology regarding autism, demonstrating respect for individual preferences and experiences:

“It's part of the mission I sent that book on – therapy.” (26:09)

5. Impact on Readers and Social Issues

Kennedy is deeply moved by the feedback from her readers, many of whom have experienced personal transformations inspired by her books. She recounts stories of women leaving abusive relationships and reconnecting with estranged family members after reading her work:

“I have gotten so many messages from women who were in abusive relationships who left them after reading that book.” (50:24)

Her narratives aim to destigmatize therapy and mental health discussions, providing relatable and empowering stories that resonate with a diverse audience.

6. Diverse Family Structures and Normalization

The conversation highlights Kennedy's commitment to showcasing varied family dynamics, including blended families and same-sex marriages. She believes in normalizing different family structures through her storytelling:

“We should normalize that families look different... You can choose how your family looks.” (28:49)

By presenting these variations naturally within her books, Kennedy fosters a more inclusive and representative literary landscape.

7. Mental Health and Therapy in Literature

Kennedy shares her personal journey with depression, which parallels her character Yasmin's struggles in "Before I Let Go." She emphasizes the importance of therapy and its portrayal in her books to encourage readers to seek help:

“She said, I really don't care about your book. I need you to care. It's six months late.” (35:18)

This approach serves to destigmatize mental health care, particularly within marginalized communities, and underscores the transformative power of seeking support.

8. Adaptations and Future Endeavors

Discussing the adaptation of her books for television, Kennedy expresses enthusiasm and highlights the collaborative nature of the process:

“We're doing it now for the Skyland series over at Peacock and it's such a learning experience.” (52:22)

As an executive producer, she aims to ensure that the essence of her stories remains intact while navigating the complexities of adapting novels to screen.

9. Influences and Favorite Authors

Kennedy reveals her admiration for historical romance authors like Laura Kinsale and the late Bibi Moore Campbell, who inspired her to tackle complex and messy narratives authentically:

“She's been incredibly impactful to me because she writes very messy.” (56:14)

These influences have shaped her approach to writing realistic, flawed characters who engage in meaningful, transformative relationships.

10. Core Messages and Final Thoughts

Kale prompts Kennedy to summarize the overarching message of her books. Kennedy passionately affirms that her works encourage women to "never settle" in relationships, careers, or personal aspirations:

“You deserve respect. You deserve to be loved outrageously.” (47:33)

She challenges the misconception that romance novels promote unrealistic standards, clarifying that her stories celebrate self-worth, mutual respect, and empowering love.

Kennedy concludes by sharing her future projects, including the next installment in the Skyland series titled "Score," slated for a 2026 release. She invites listeners to connect with her via social media for updates on book signings and tour dates.

Notable Quotes:

• Kennedy Ryan: “I wanted this series to depict three women who make very different life choices... they completely accept one another 100%.” (02:22)

• Kennedy Ryan: “I'm very intentional about promoting black and brown authors because of reduced visibility.” (06:07)

• Kennedy Ryan: “Me making a choice not to have children is reproductive agency.” (16:28)

• Kennedy Ryan: “I have gotten so many messages from women who were in abusive relationships who left them after reading that book.” (50:24)

• Kennedy Ryan: “We should normalize that families look different... You can choose how your family looks.” (28:49)

• Kennedy Ryan: “You deserve respect. You deserve to be loved outrageously.” (47:33)

This episode of Barely Famous offers an insightful exploration into Kennedy Ryan's impactful storytelling, her dedication to authentic representation, and her unwavering commitment to empowering her readers through nuanced and diverse narratives.