U of A Reads: Stories Behind the Stories

Welcome to U of A Reads: Stories Behind the Stories — the podcast that takes you beyond the book jacket and into the creative heart of the University of Alberta’s finest storytellers.

In each episode, we sit down with U of A authors — from celebrated alumni to inspiring faculty and emerging student voices — to explore the passion, process, and personal journeys behind their latest works. From fiction to memoir, poetry to research, discover the experiences, memories, and motivations that shaped the stories on the page.

Because every great book has a backstory — and we’re here to share it.

Territorial Acknowledgement

The University of Alberta, its buildings, labs and research stations are primarily located on the territory of the Néhiyaw (Cree), Niitsitapi (Blackfoot), Métis, Nakoda (Stoney), Dene, Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) and Anishinaabe (Ojibway/Saulteaux), lands that are now known as part of Treaties 6, 7 and 8 and homeland of the Métis. The University of Alberta respects the sovereignty, lands, histories, languages, knowledge systems and cultures of all First Nations, Métis and Inuit nations.

Host

Katy Yachimec-Farries

Katy Yachimec-Farries (she/her), '04 BA, is the Program Lead of Online Engagement in the University of Alberta’s Office of Alumni Relations, where she develops innovative digital programming that connects graduates around the globe. She is also the host of U of A Reads: Stories Behind the Stories, guiding listeners into meaningful conversations with the university’s authors and storytellers. With a passion for community-building and creative engagement, Katy champions projects that inspire learning, connection, and lifelong curiosity.