Meet the Team
Dia L. Michels
Founder and Publisher
Dia L. Michels founded Platypus Media in 2000 with the goal of creating books that focus on attachment parenting and community. She loves working with the authors and selecting illustrators, and really enjoys developing and licensing world language editions of the books Platypus Media publishes.
In addition to editing and publishing manuscripts, she has written or coauthored over a dozen books for children and adults. Her books have been translated into Spanish, Dutch, Bengali, Hebrew, Haitian Creole, and Washoe. A popular speaker, Dia presents at healthcare, parenting, and education conferences across the country. She is the mother of three grown children, who still keep her busy with their crazy lives, and has several cats.
Favorite Children's Book:
Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge by Mem Fox
The Incredible Painting of Felix Clousseau by Jon Agee
Tommy at the Grocery Store by Bill Grossman
Ali Trujillo
Chief Operating Officer
Ali keeps Platypus Media running by managing day-to-day operations and logistics. He works with the publisher to implement systems to streamline operations and finances. Ali also works on production coordination, proofreading, and translating Spanish titles.
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Prior to joining Platypus Media, Ali worked at World Wildlife Fund as senior assistant for the food waste program where he managed contract processes for private sector consultants. At WWF Ali also collaborated in admin meetings with clients and colleagues on conservation efforts. He also worked at R Street Institute, a DC-based think tank as a finance and operations associate. Previously he was a production coordinator at Asia Pacific Offset, an international print management company.
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Ali lives in Washington, DC.
Favorite Children's Book:
The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Charlotte's Web by E.B. White
Hannah Thelen
Editorial and Production Director
Hannah just likes to be included, whether it's in the development, editing, and design of books, the translation of manuscripts, or the creation of sweet, sweet workflow spreadsheets. She received her BFA in creative writing from Bowling Green State University, where she also minored in print design and technology (and dance). Hannah recently moved to Fort Myers, FL, and is trying out this new remote work thing everyone talks about.
Favorite Children's Books:
The Little Match Girl by Hans Christian Andersen
Saturday Night at the Dinosaur Stomp by Carol Diggory Shields
Violet Antonick
Senior Editor and Outreach Coordinator
Violet traveled extensively in search of metamorphosis, stories, and inspiration, culminating in an honors degree in English from the University of Vermont. Shaping her path, she transitioned from roles as an indie bookseller and digital marketer to elevating her expertise at the Columbia Publishing Course in Oxford. At present, she expertly intertwines her deep passion for literature and editorial work with strategic outreach initiatives for Platypus Media.
Her commitment to transforming the literary landscape is evident in her multifaceted dedication to writing, reading, and promoting literacy. Violet's narrative is not merely a personal odyssey but a testament to her unwavering commitment to enriching the literary world.
Favorite Children's Books:
The Barnabus Project by the Fan Brothers
The Universe in You: A Microscopic Journey by Jason Chin
Paradise Sands: A Story of Enchantment By Levi Pinfold
Skyler Kaczmarczyk
Associate Editor and Marketing Coordinator
Skyler, originally from Chicago, Illinois, now calls Washington, DC, home, where her passion for illustrating and teaching kids' art in after-school programs seamlessly merged into a budding career in children's publishing. Inspired by her studies in Kinetic Imaging at VCUarts, Skyler discovered that her true storytelling calling mirrored the enchanting narratives of her childhood—books!
Her dedication to children's literature is fueled by a profound belief in instilling positive messages in young minds. Skyler is particularly drawn to stories that explore the wonders of nature and emphasize the importance of understanding the world around us. At Platypus Media, she feels like she's back in school again, joyfully diving into research for each book, this time in the best way possible.
Favorite Children's Books:
Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein
The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo
The Spider and the Fly by Mary Howitt
Sofía Ramiréz
Administrative Assistant / Order Fulfillment Specialist
Sofía, a graduate in Political Science and Economics from FAU, effortlessly combines their academic expertise with a strong dedication to children's education at Platypus Media. Not limited to traditional classrooms, they actively nurture curiosity and a love for reading in young minds. This commitment extends to Sofía's home, a cozy apartment brimming with books and stationary. Their passion for knowledge goes beyond academia, involving engagement with various art forms, creating an environment where every interaction becomes a chance for personal growth.
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Believing in continuous learning, Sofía encourages adults to approach education with the same enthusiasm as children, recognizing that the journey of learning is ongoing. Sofía's journey is characterized by the intersection of academic excellence, a sincere connection to fostering young minds, and an enduring love for education.
Favorite Children's Books:
Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery
La Edad de Oro by José Martí
Der Prinz und die Blume by Ingrid Mylo
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Darwin Castillo
Information and Technology Coordinator
Darwin has many talents that keep the company afloat, like building and repairing computers, troubleshooting technical difficulties, designing and building storage solutions, and generally fixing everyone's problems. He also has experience in graphic design and home renovation. In his free time, Darwin enjoys mountaineering across the US.
Favorite Book:
Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes