Writer Zibby Owens, an NYC-based mom of four, talks to other writers about their work.
Listeners of Moms Don’t Have Time to Read Books that love the show mention: judith, ziggy, great authors, would recommend 100, eavesdropping, literary, farm, develop, sunday, fiction, moms, recommendations, chatting, reading, opening, thoroughly, interviewer, process, quickly, conversations.
The Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books podcast is an absolute gem. Zibby and her guests have become my daily companions as I go on walks, and they never fail to inspire and motivate me in my writing endeavors. Zibby's skill in asking thought-provoking questions to authors is truly commendable, and she often brings on guest hosts who also do a fantastic job in helping the authors share what their book is about. Every episode of this podcast allows me to learn about different authors and the books they write, often introducing me to interesting titles that I may not have come across otherwise. This podcast has not only enriched my reading experience but has also helped me learn more about myself.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is how Zibby asks questions that are on listeners' minds, delving beneath the surface of the book to uncover the deeper themes and ideas. Her interviews are insightful and inspiring, offering great insight into the writing process and the author's journey. Additionally, with over a thousand episodes, there is a wealth of content to explore and discover new favorite authors or books.
While it's hard to find any significant flaws with The Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books podcast, some listeners may find it overwhelming due to the sheer volume of episodes available. With so many options to choose from, it can be challenging for new listeners to know where to start or which episodes to prioritize. However, this can easily be resolved by exploring episodes based on favorite authors or genres.
In conclusion, The Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books podcast is an incredible resource for readers and writers alike. Zibby's passion for books shines through in every episode, making each conversation engaging and enjoyable. Whether you're looking for book recommendations or seeking deeper insights into the writing process, this podcast offers it all. It is a must-listen for any book lover looking for inspiration and connection within the literary world.

At Totally Booked: Live! at the Whitby Hotel, Zibby interviews debut author and entrepreneur Katie Sturino about her sexy, laugh-out-loud romcom, SUNNY SIDE UP. Katie reveals how the book grew from her own post-divorce journey and her desire to portray a confident, bigger-bodied woman navigating dating, friendship, and self-reinvention, without conforming to “revenge body” tropes. She dives into the novel's bold early scenes, the importance of supportive female friendships, and the real-life inspiration behind Sunny's entrepreneurial storyline. Finally, she talks about building her personal care brand, Megababe, which offers clean, cute products that tackle “taboo” body issues… like the anti-chafing Thigh Rescue stick and the Le Tush butt mask. Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode of the podcast (in-person at the Whitby Hotel with a live audience!), Zibby interviews celebrated designer and author Nate Berkus about his beautifully photographed new book, FOUNDATIONS: Timeless Design That Feels Personal. Nate shares the evolution of the project, from a rejected “10 little books in a box” concept to a comprehensive, user-friendly guide built on 30 years of design experience. He shares why design should be personal, honest, emotional, and deeply reflective of one's life, and explains his unconventional approach to understanding clients: starting in their closets. He also speaks candidly about surviving the Indian Ocean tsunami, losing his partner, and how grief reshaped his life and work.Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Actor, director, producer, podcaster, and bestselling author Penn Badgley joins Zibby to discuss his debut essay collection, CRUSHMORE: Essays on Love, Loss, and Coming-of-Age, which he wrote with his podcast co-hosts. Penn reflects on the origins of his podcast show and why adolescence is such a powerful entry point into storytelling. He opens up about his insecurities (from curly hair to fame itself), sharing what it's like to grow up on camera and how celebrity shapes and distorts identity. They also dive into middle-school angst, the cultural impact of the selfie, the pressures of visibility, and the parts of fame most people never see. He also speaks vulnerably about miscarriage, marriage, and becoming a father of twins.Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recorded live at the Whitby Hotel, Zibby interviews renowned, #1 New York Times bestselling poet Kate Baer about her latest work, a raw, luminous, and urgent collection titled HOW ABOUT NOW. Kate opens up about the health crisis that reshaped her life and work, her evolving relationship with her body, and the lingering impact of past trauma. She also talks candidly about motherhood, marriage, anxiety, and the strange intimacy of writing poems that expose so much and still leave room for humor and tenderness.Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Totally Booked: LIVE! In this special episode of the podcast (in-person at the Whitby Hotel with a live audience!), Zibby interviews entrepreneur, 2x CEO, author, and single mom Amanda Goetz about TOXIC GRIT: How to Have it All and (Actually) Love What You Have. Amanda opens up about building a high-powered career while raising three kids, navigating divorce, and redefining what it means to “have it all.” She introduces her concept of “character theory,” encouraging women to embrace the many parts of themselves—career-driven, maternal, fun, sensual—and to eliminate guilt by living with intention. She also explains “toxic grit” as hustle without purpose and explains how to create balance over a lifetime rather than in a single day.Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Totally Booked: LIVE! In this special episode of the podcast (in-person at the Whitby Hotel with a live audience!), Zibby interviews journalist Lili Anolik about her vivid, engrossing, and outrageously provocative dual biography, DIDION & BABITZ. Lili describes the obsessive hunt that led her to Babitz, and then delves into the complex friendship between Babitz and Didion, the trove of unseen letters that changed everything, and the surprising love story that shaped Didion's life and work. Lili also talks about her compulsive curiosity, her unconventional research methods, and what it really means to write about obsession.Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode of the podcast (recorded live at Zibby's Petite Retreat in Greenwich), Zibby interviews bestselling debut author Heather Aimee O'Neill about her achingly poignant and gripping novel, THE IRISH GOODBYE (which was a Read With Jenna book club pick!). Zibby and Heather discuss the novel's exploration of sisterhood, grief, and forgiveness as three women return home to confront their brother's death and the secrets that have haunted them for years. Heather opens up about her family's connection to 9/11, how that experience shaped her understanding of loss, and the power of compassion and humor in healing.Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nigerian-American travel writer, speaker, photographer, and bestselling author Lọlá Ákínmádé Åkerström joins Zibby to discuss BITTER HONEY, a radiant, deliciously addictive family drama about a mother and daughter divided by long-buried secrets, struggling to understand each other as they forge their own paths. Lola reveals how navigating her own divorce informed the emotional depth of the book, and then delves into the story's themes of generational trauma, fame, secrets, and addiction.Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Totally Booked: LIVE! In this special episode of the podcast (in-person at the Whitby Hotel with a live audience!), Zibby interviews Rabbi Angela Buchdahl (Senior Rabbi of Central Synagogue and the first Asian American rabbi) about her astonishingly beautiful, searing new memoir (and an instant New York Times bestseller), HEART OF A STRANGER: An Unlikely Rabbi's Story of Faith, Identity, and Belonging. Rabbi Buchdahl shares her extraordinary journey, from Seoul to New York City, weaving together personal stories, Jewish wisdom, and lessons on belonging, grief, empathy, and resilience. She even sings for the audience, which you don't want to miss!Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby welcomes former Dance Moms star Nia Sioux to the podcast to discuss her powerful new memoir, BOTTOM OF THE PYRAMID: A Memoir of Persevering, Dancing for Myself, and Starring in My Own Life. Joined by a few young fans (Zibby's kids!), Nia answers heartfelt questions about growing up on reality TV, dealing with pressure and criticism, and learning to stay true to herself. She also opens up about stage fright, friendship, sibling dynamics, and managing her chronic pain disorder.Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby Publishing alert! Bestselling Israeli author Lihi Lapid chats with Zibby about I WANTED TO BE WONDERFUL, her gut-wrenching, lyrical, and sharply observed novel about marriage, motherhood, sacrifice, and self-discovery. Originally published in Israel as Woman of Valor, the novel intertwines fiction and memoir, portraying both a woman's inner life and the complexities of family, love, and identity. Lihi shares the real-life inspiration behind the book, including her journey as a mother to a daughter with autism, her experience as the wife of a public figure, and the struggle to reclaim her own creative voice.Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Totally Booked: LIVE! In this special episode of the podcast (in-person at the Whitby Hotel with a live audience!), Zibby interviews beloved New York Times bestselling author Susan Orlean about her brilliant, high-spirited, exhilarating debut memoir, JOYRIDE. Susan reflects on the “reign of good fortune” that has shaped her career and personal life, from serendipitous early writing breaks to the heartbreaks and rebirths that followed. She also opens up about her complicated first marriage, a surprising post-divorce romance in Bhutan, and rebuilding her life after loss, from 9/11 to the California wildfires.Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/47we0tkShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby interviews neuroscientist Ben Rein about his exquisite and insightful new book, WHY BRAINS NEED FRIENDS: The Neuroscience of Social Connection. Ben explains complex neuroscience in an accessible, engaging way, sharing insights about how even small, everyday interactions boost mental health, creativity, and a sense of belonging. The two discuss everything from the neuroscience of empathy and “Zoom fatigue” to why dogs make us happier and how emojis can improve digital communication.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3KWxyiSShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

World-famous designer, educator, and play advocate Cas Holman joins Zibby to discuss her radiant, provocative, and essential new book, PLAYFUL: How Play Shifts Our Thinking, Inspires Connection, and Sparks Creativity. Cas—best known for her Netflix Abstract episode and her imaginative creations like Rigamajig—shares how decades of designing for children led her to explore why adults need play just as much. She and Zibby discuss the “three conditions” for rediscovering play, how play fosters creativity and connection, and why letting go of rules and expectations can help us live more authentically.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3JhkXWXShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3ITzQyEShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/43o4Rl3Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/46X6EzVShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby is joined by Newbery Medalist and beloved, bestselling middle-grade author Rebecca Stead to discuss THE EXPERIMENT, an extraterrestrial coming-of-age novel about identity and change. Rebecca discusses her unexpected path from public defender to acclaimed writer, how she captures the emotional truth of childhood, and why she believes in letting kids read (and reread) whatever they love. She and Zibby also talk about friendship, family, creativity, and the quiet bravery it takes to write.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/4n4dsApShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/4n2bsITShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby chats with TikTok sensation Eli Rallo about her candid, funny, and deeply relatable new collection, DOES ANYONE ELSE FEEL THIS WAY?: Essays on Conquering the Quarter Life Crisis. Eli opens up about finding her voice online, navigating the isolation and uncertainty of post-grad life, and turning her popular podcast and Substack into a meaningful writing career. She and Zibby also discuss the pressures young women face on social media, the realities of growing up, and why your twenties are not your peak. Finally, Eli offers advice for aspiring writers: don't stop, stay delusional, and keep creating.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3KLDb3aShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Live from the Streicker Center! Zibby interviews political writer and podcaster Molly Jong-Fast about HOW TO LOSE YOUR MOTHER, a mesmerizing, intimate, wise, heartbreaking, instant New York Times bestselling memoir about an intense mother–daughter relationship, a sometimes chaotic upbringing with a fame-hungry parent, and the upheavals that challenge our hard-won adulthood. Together, they explore the complexities of caring for aging parents while raising children, the legacy of her mother Erica Jong's fame, and finding humor—even joy—in life's most difficult moments.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/4q5OH9LShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New York Times bestselling author and journalist Beth Macy chats with Zibby about PAPER GIRL: A Memoir of Hope and Family in a Fractured America, an essential, searingly poignant reckoning with the changes that have rocked her beloved small Ohio hometown. Beth describes her mother's final days after the 2020 election and her journey back home to understand how division, disinformation, and economic decline tore families and communities apart. She also delves into what's left of local journalism, how education and opportunity have eroded for working-class Americans, and what it takes to rebuild trust, compassion, and hope in a polarized nation.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/4nh6atrShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Totally Booked: LIVE! In this special episode of the podcast (in-person at the Whitby Hotel with a live audience!), Zibby interviews two-time Oprah's Book Club pick and New York Times bestselling author Jane Hamilton about her first novel in nearly a decade, THE PHOEBE VARIATIONS (which is published by Zibby Publishing!). Jane shares the inspiration behind Phoebe's story, an exploration of girlhood, friendship, identity, and found family set in 1970s Oak Park. She and Zibby also discuss motherhood, regret, creative persistence, and what it means to hold a book close to one's heart.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/46RwvJDShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Totally Booked: LIVE! In this special episode of the podcast (in-person at the Whitby Hotel with a live audience!), Zibby interviews America's favorite storyteller, Mitch Albom, about his new novel, TWICE, a magical and deeply moving story about regret, love, and second chances. Mitch shares how the idea came to him (in the shower!), the themes that drive his work, and how his own experiences with loss and his orphanage in Haiti inspired the book's emotional core. Together, they discuss the novel's time-bending premise, its detective storyline, the limits of love, and the lesson at its heart: if we were always given second chances, we'd never learn a thing.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3IX5OK5Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for listening guides and more. **(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/48RiBbAShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!JOIN ME! I'm hosting four events on September 19, 25th and 30th in NYC and on October 4th in Greenwich, CT. Get your tickets here! (Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rabbi Wendy I. Zierler joins Zibby to discuss her memoir GOING OUT WITH KNOTS: My Two Kaddish Years with Hebrew Poetry, a profound exploration of grief, faith, and resilience. Rabbi Wendy describes losing both parents within eleven months, navigating the demanding ritual of daily Kaddish, and finding solace through poetry, prayer, and teaching during the pandemic. She also reflects on her path to becoming an Orthodox rabbi and the feminist challenges within Jewish liturgy.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/46LCE8MShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!JOIN ME! I'm hosting four events on September 19, 25th and 30th in NYC and on October 4th in Greenwich, CT. Get your tickets here! (Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby chats with award-winning Brazilian illustrator Gus Morais about TAYLOR SWIFT: Unofficial Search and Find Biographies, a visual exploration of the star's groundbreaking music career, celebrating every album era and iconic outfit. Gus shares how he went from knowing little about Taylor Swift to immersing himself in her music, lyrics, and imagery to create a vibrant, detail-packed book that's like Where's Waldo for Swifties. He talks about the extensive research process, the hidden Easter eggs woven into each illustration, and why even non-Swifties can enjoy the book.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/4nWLkjtShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!JOIN ME! I'm hosting four events on September 19, 25th and 30th in NYC and on October 4th in Greenwich, CT. Get your tickets here! (Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3Ky7KcqShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!JOIN ME! I'm hosting four events on September 19, 25th and 30th in NYC and on October 4th in Greenwich, CT. Get your tickets here! (Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby interviews New York Times bestselling author Lily King about HEART THE LOVER, her magnificent and intimate new novel about literature, forgiveness, and the transformative bonds that shape our lives. Lily opens up about the long, winding path that led to the book, from a shelved murder mystery draft to a spark of inspiration after reading a friend's manuscript. She shares how themes of love, loss, friendship, and time weave through the story, and how her personal history and family experiences shaped her sensitivity to life's smallest details.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/46KSQalShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!JOIN ME! I'm hosting four events on September 19, 25th and 30th in NYC and on October 4th in Greenwich, CT. Get your tickets here! (Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chef and New York Times bestselling author Jake Cohen joins Zibby to discuss his fun, unfussy, and inventive new cookbook, DINNER PARTY ANIMAL: Recipes to Make Every Day a Celebration. Jake describes his shy childhood in Queens, how hosting early dinner parties helped him build confidence and community, and his journey from restaurant kitchens to cookbook success. He also discusses the joy and intimacy of gathering people around the table, the role of Shabbat in his life, a few of the fabulous recipes (such as brown butter Parker House rolls and tiramisu cake), and why hosting should feel fun rather than intimidating.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/46t9aO5Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!JOIN ME! I'm hosting four events on September 19, 25th and 30th in NYC and on October 4th in Greenwich, CT. Get your tickets here! (Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby chats with journalist and author Nicole Madigan about her harrowing, compelling, and utterly enlightening book, TORN: Four Women's Stories of Why They Left – or Why They Stayed, which explores the painful, confusing period of indecision after betrayal in a long-term relationship—when you're caught between staying and leaving. Nicole shares her own experiences of love, loss, and resilience, as well as the deeply honest stories of four women who trusted her with their private struggles. Together, they discuss shame, secrecy, attachment, and what it means to navigate that limbo of not knowing what comes next.Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!JOIN ME! I'm hosting four events on September 19, 25th and 30th in NYC and on October 4th in Greenwich, CT. Get your tickets here! (Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Clea Shearer, cofounder of The Home Edit and New York Times bestselling author, joins Zibby to discuss her comforting, empowering, and beautifully written guide to living with breast cancer, CANCER IS COMPLICATED: And Other Unexpected Lessons I've Learned. Clea shares her journey from the shock of diagnosis to navigating surgeries, treatments, and the emotional aftermath, all while finding purpose in documenting her experience to help others. She opens up about the pivotal role her mother and husband played in her care, the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare, and the complicated mix of fear, resilience, humor, and unexpected moments of joy that came with her battle.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/46rCBQpShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!JOIN ME! I'm hosting four events on September 19, 25th and 30th in NYC and on October 4th in Greenwich, CT. Get your tickets here! (Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby welcomes legendary restaurateur Drew Nieporent to discuss his compelling, rollicking new memoir, I'M NOT TRYING TO BE DIFFICULT: Stories from the Restaurant Trenches. Drew reflects on his decades-long career shaping New York dining culture—from iconic spots like Tribeca Grill and Nobu to feeding workers after 9/11 and navigating the challenges of the pandemic. He also shares candid stories of success, setbacks, partnerships, and survival, along with deeply personal moments about his health, family, and resilience.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3V7C6VuShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!JOIN ME! I'm hosting four events on September 19, 25th and 30th in NYC and on October 4th in Greenwich, CT. Get your tickets here! (Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby interviews beloved New York Times bestselling author and host of the For the Love podcast, Jen Hatmaker, about her brutally honest, funny, and revealing new memoir, AWAKE. Jen opens up about the heartbreak of her 26-year marriage ending, the grief and disorientation that followed, and the slow, painful climb back toward wholeness. She and Zibby explore themes of love, loss, faith, resilience, healing, and the profound support of family and friends. Jen also shares why she chose to tell her story through raw, unpolished vignettes and how writing the book became both an act of truth-telling and a tribute to the people who loved her back to life.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/469Q8uDShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!JOIN ME! I'm hosting four events on September 19, 25th and 30th in NYC and on October 4th in Greenwich, CT. Get your tickets here! (Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Beauty mogul and New York Times bestselling author Bobbi Brown joins Zibby to discuss her brilliant, raw, unfiltered new memoir, STILL BOBBI: A Master Class in Leading an Authentic Life. Bobbi describes her journey from creating her first lipstick shade in a kitchen experiment to building a global beauty empire, the challenges of corporate expansion, and her decision to walk away and start fresh with her new brand, Jones Road Beauty. She reflects on the mentors who shaped her, the importance of authenticity, her devotion to motherhood alongside her career, and how she continues to innovate well into her 60s.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/4lJ3TWOShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!JOIN ME! I'm hosting four events on September 19, 25th and 30th in NYC and on October 4th in Greenwich, CT. Get your tickets here! (Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby chats with author Jennifer Oko about JUST EMILIA, an imaginative, compassionate, quick-witted time-traveling tale of a woman who encounters three versions of herself—teen, midlife, and older—in a Washington, DC Metro elevator. Jennifer shares how the spark for the book came from being briefly stuck in an elevator, and how the story grew into a moving exploration of memory, identity, and the ripple effects of pivotal life moments. She also reflects on mother–daughter relationships, aging with compassion, her career shift from journalism to fiction, and the creative outlets that keep her inspired.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3K6gQwRShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!JOIN ME! I'm hosting four events on September 19, 25th and 30th in NYC and on October 4th in Greenwich, CT. Get your tickets here! (Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby chats with #1 New York Times bestselling author, Dr. Nicholas Perricone, about his groundbreaking new book, THE BEAUTY MOLECULE: Introducing Neuroceuticals, the Breakthrough for Ageless Beauty. Dr. Perricone shares insights from decades of research on the anti-inflammatory diet, the science behind the “beauty molecule,” and practical ways to extend health, beauty, and cognitive function. He also shares what it's like to see his once-radical ideas become mainstream, recounts the famous three-day diet that took Oprah's audience by storm, and explains the promise of hydrogen water and GLP-1 medications in reducing inflammation and slowing aging.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/46zlFGPShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!JOIN ME! I'm hosting four events on September 19, 25th and 30th in NYC and on October 4th in Greenwich, CT. Get your tickets here! (Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Acclaimed photographer Stacy Bass joins Zibby to discuss her deeply personal new book, LIGHTKEEPER: A Memoir Through the Lens of Love and Loss. Stacy shares the story of losing her father in a tragic seaplane accident that also claimed the lives of her cousins, and the complicated family grief that followed. She reflects on how writing—and later sharing memories of her parents and loved ones—helped her process decades of silence. Zibby and Stacy also discuss family bonds, the power of storytelling, signs from those we've lost, and how grief can transform but never truly disappear.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/45VZc7IShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!JOIN ME! I'm hosting four events on September 19, 25th and 30th in NYC and on October 4th in Greenwich, CT. Get your tickets here! (Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you raise kids who can handle our topsy-turvy world? Not by coddling them, that's for sure. No, you want to cultivate grit in your children—the kind of resilience they'll need to absorb whatever shocks may come their way. To help with that, we've got some insights from science journalist Melinda Wenner Moyer, who's written a new book called Hello, Cruel World!: Science-Based Strategies for Raising Terrific Kids in Terrifying Times.This episode comes from a show we love called The Next Big Idea Daily. For more mini masterclasses from the best new nonfiction, follow The Next Big Idea Daily on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/487FtmNShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!JOIN ME! I'm hosting four events on September 19, 25th and 30th in NYC and on October 4th in Greenwich, CT. Get your tickets here! (Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby interviews leading behavioral scientist and author Dr. Zelana Montminy about FINDING FOCUS: Own Your Attention in an Age of Distraction, a wake-up call to take back your mind—and your life! They dive into the modern epidemic of distraction, how our attention is constantly hijacked by devices and cultural noise, and why focus—not time—is our most valuable resource. Dr. Montminy shares practical ways to reclaim clarity, rebuild mental fitness, and reconnect with what matters most—without shame or overwhelm.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3UY0ysjShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!JOIN ME! I'm hosting four events on September 19, 25th and 30th in NYC and on October 4th in Greenwich, CT. Get your tickets here! (Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Debut author Sam Sussman joins Zibby to discuss BOY FROM THE NORTH COUNTRY, a searingly tender mother-son story, and Zibby's Book Club pick for October. Inspired by the author's own uncertain celebrity paternity, the book follows Evan, a young man grappling with love, loss, and the mystery of his father's identity—rumored to be Bob Dylan—while caring for his mother during her final months. Sam reveals how the novel draws deeply from his own life and his late mother's story, weaving together themes of grief, inheritance, art, and the many forms of love.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3HTy7J2Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!JOIN ME! I'm hosting four events on September 19, 25th and 30th in NYC and on October 4th in Greenwich, CT. Get your tickets here! (Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby welcomes Emma Heming Willis to discuss her deeply personal and compassionate new book, THE UNEXPECTED JOURNEY: Finding Strength, Hope, and Yourself on the Caregiving Path. Emma opens up about her role as caregiver to her husband, Bruce Willis, following his diagnosis with frontotemporal dementia, and the challenges of navigating ambiguous loss, parenting young children, and living in the public eye. She shares how she's learned to prioritize self-care, build community, and advocate for others facing a similar journey. Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3IjJgTwShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!JOIN ME! I'm hosting four events on September 19, 25th and 30th in NYC and on October 4th in Greenwich, CT. Get your tickets here! (Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Author and celebrated White House speechwriter Sarah Hurwitz returns to the podcast to discuss AS A JEW: Reclaiming Our Story from Those Who Blame, Shame, and Try to Erase Us. Sarah shares her personal journey of rediscovering Jewish tradition, explores the history and persistence of antisemitism, and explains why reclaiming Jewish identity on Jewish terms is essential today. Their conversation touches on resilience, nuance, and hope for the future, offering wisdom not just for Jews but for anyone seeking deeper understanding.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/4gpMWQxShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!JOIN ME! I'm hosting four events on September 19, 25th and 30th in NYC and on October 4th in Greenwich, CT. Get your tickets here! (Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby interviews million-copy bestselling author Joanne Harris, who has returned to the world of CHOCOLAT with the long-awaited story of VIANNE, which begins six years before she opens her scandalous chocolaterie in the small French village of Lansquenet. Joanne discusses her novel's themes of grief, identity, motherhood, and transformation, and then touches on the healing power of food, the folklore and history of chocolate, memory as a way to keep loved ones alive, and her journey as a writer with synesthesia.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3JGPtJHShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!JOIN ME! I'm hosting four events on September 19, 25th and 30th in NYC and on October 4th in Greenwich, CT. Get your tickets here! (Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.