Podcasts about book preview

Looking for an adventure that can inspire your Kids and your Coaches? Check out George Goodwin - Dragon Slayer! This is a cool story that includes themes like Team Selection, Trails and Perseverance, Success, Rivalries, and Victory! This is The Educational AD Podcast!

Reflecting on the upcoming tenth anniversary of the publication of my first book "Leaving Cancer for the Circus" and updating you on the process of completing the sequel to the book, scheduled for publication around World Series time later this year. It includes a book presentation from a few years back. Lots of emotions and smiles!

Welcome to the Summer 2026 Book Preview with Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books!   Today, Sarah and Catherine share 12 of their most anticipated books releasing in June through mid – August.   This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Announcements One of the many benefits to supporting the podcast through either our Patreon Community or our Substack Community (both for just $7/mo) is that you get access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and Sarah share 4 bonus books (2 each) we are excited about that we did not share in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available and sign up here for Patreon and here for Substack! Highlights A lightning round of some big summer releases that are NOT our personal preview picks. Catherine's theme this season was following her initial emotional reaction to a book, while Sarah's picks skew a bit outside of her usual comfort zone. Catherine chose books across historical fiction, cultural fiction, romance, humor, and thriller. One of the season's more challenging reads for Catherine comes from an author she trusts, while Sarah has two books over 450 pages. There's one debut in Sarah's stack this season — along with some historical fiction. Sarah has already read one of her picks — not only was it 5 stars, it's already a strong contender for book of the year. Plus, their #1 picks for summer. Big Summer Releases Villa Coco by Andrew Sean Greer (June 9) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:28]  God's Country (Cork O'Connor, 22) by William Kent Krueger (August 18) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:33]  The Shampoo Effect by Jenny Jackson (June 30) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:36]  Biological War by Annie Jacobsen (July 28) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:43]  Cool Machine (The Harlem Trilogy, 3) by Colson Whitehead (July 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:48] A Tender Age by Chang-rae Lee (August 11) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:53]   Under the Falls by Richard Russo (August 11) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:55]  Sunrise by Téa Obreht (August 11) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:14]  Dominion (The Silk and Iron Trilogy, 1) by Jean Kwok (July 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:26]  Other Books Mentioned Less (The Arthur Books, 1) by Andrew Sean Greer (2017) [1:32]  Pineapple Street by Jenny Jackson (2023) [1:41]  Nuclear War by Annie Jacobsen (2024) [1:47]  Empire Falls by Richard Russo (2001) [3:04]  Summer 2026 Book Preview June Sarah's Pick Whistler by Ann Patchett (June 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [6:53]  Catherine's Picks A Year of Marvelous Ways by Sarah Winman (US Release June 16) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:23] Leave and Come Back by Lavanya Lakshmi (June 16) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [18:29]  The Top of the World by Ethan Joella (June 30) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:59]  Keep Them Close by David Ellis (June 30) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [26:39] Other Books Mentioned Tom Lake by Ann Patchett (2023) [8:05]  The Correspondent by Virginia Evans (2025) [8:54]  Commonwealth by Ann Patchett (2016) [9:12]  Bel Canto by Ann Patchett (2001) [9:16] The Dutch House by Ann Patchett (2019) [9:17]   State of Wonder by Ann Patchett (2011) [9:18]  The Heart's Invisible Furies by John Boyne (2017) [10:07]  Tin Man by Sarah Winman (US 2018) [13:39]  Still Life by Sarah Winman (2021) [14:24]  Crazy Rich Asians (Crazy Rich Asians, 1) by Kevin Kwan (2013) [19:54]  Abigail and Alexa Save the Wedding by Lian Dolan (2025) [20:12]  The Best Lies by David Ellis (2024) [26:44]  July Sarah's Picks The Half Life by Rachel Beanland (July 14) |Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:40] Dad, Love, Me by Matthew Quick (July 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:27] Catherine's Pick City of Widows by Nadia Hashimi (July 28) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [30:28] Other Books Mentioned Florence Adler Swims Forever by Rachel Beanland (2020) [15:26]  The House Is on Fire by Rachel Beanland (2023) [15:28]  The Women by Kristin Hannah (2024) [16:27]  The Wives by Simone Gorrindo (2024) [17:48]  The Silver Linings Playbook by Matthew Quick (2008) [20:39]  August Sarah's Picks Everything That Is Beautiful by Louise Nealon (August 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:33] Sunlight Finds You by Laura Moriarty (August 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[28:32] Kitten by Stacey Yu (August 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [33:07]  Catherine's Pick You'll Love It Here by Natalie Sue (August 11) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [36:41] Other Books Mentioned Snowflake by Louise Nealon (2021) [25:05]  Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane (2019) [26:25]  Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty (2014) [28:54]  The Chaperone by Laura Moriarty (2012) [29:14]  The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath (1963) [36:01]  I Hope This Finds You Well by Natalie Sue (2024) [37:51] 

In Episode 225, Sarah and Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books catch up on the 12 new releases they shared in the Spring 2026 Book Preview, now that they've read them — or at least tried to!  They share their reading stats and discuss which books worked and which didn't…and why.   This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Get the 2026 Summer Reading Guide This year's Summer Reading Guide is bigger than ever — and now available as a full PDF with in-depth write-ups on every book. Here's how to access it: Full PDF Guide (with write-ups): Available to current paying members on Patreon or Substack  Start a free trial (Patreon: 7 days | Substack: 30 days) *Be sure to use the link above to access your free trial on Substack. Free Cheatsheet (no write-ups): Available to everyone on the blog Free Trials close: Friday, May 22 (Memorial Day weekend) When you sign up, you'll also get: 2–3 bonus podcast episodes per month Full back catalog of bonus content Weekly reading updates + more All the details in the recent IMPORTANT DETAILS bonus podcast episode and post. Highlights This time last year, Catherine was rocking a 100% success rate — this year's was "armageddon" Sarah had really successful spring with one 5-star book and only 1 DNF with a total average star rating of 4.15. They name their best and worst books picks for spring! Books We Read Before the Preview April Sarah's Pick The Midnight Show by Lee Kelly and Jennifer Thorne (April 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:07]  Spring 2026 Circle Back April Sarah's Picks Into the Blue by Emma Brodie (April 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [8:33]  Leave Your Mess At Home by Tolani Akinola (April 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [16:27]  Catherine's Picks American Fantasy by Emma Straub (April 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:45] Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke (April 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [12:25]  Like This, But Funnier by Hallie Cantor (April 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:23]  Other Books Mentioned All the World Can Hold by Jung Yun (2026) [7:59]  The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood (1985) [14:24]  August Lane by Regina Black (2025) [16:32]  Seven Days in June by Tia Williams (2021) [16:39]  Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashino (2025) [20:24]  May Sarah's Picks The Mediator (Max Ringo, 1) by Robert Bailey (May 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:10] The Burning Side by Sarah Damoff (May 19) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:39] Returns and Exchanges by Kayla Rae Whitaker (May 19) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [39:25]  Catherine's Picks The Liar's Playbook by Leslie Bradford-Scott (May 5) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:20] The Last Mandarin by Louise Penny and Mellissa Fung (May 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [34:35] The Tapestry of Fate (Amina al-Sirafi, 2) by Shannon Chakraborty (May 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [41:16]  Other Books Mentioned The Boomerang by Robert Bailey (2025) [22:17] Nowhere Girl by Cheryl Diamond (2021) [26:30]  The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff (2025) [29:43]  Culpability by Bruce Holsinger (2025) [33:24]  The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi (Amina al-Sirafi, 1) by Shannon Chakraborty (2023) [42:06] 

Welcome to a special pre-release series on the Act ASAP Podcast.Over the next several weeks, I'll be reading my upcoming book, Why Plans Don't Prepare You: What Real Readiness Looks Like When Leadership Is Tested, exactly as it will appear in the published edition.Today's episode features The IntroductionThis book explores why written plans alone are not enough and what true preparedness looks like when families, businesses, schools, and communities face real-world pressure.Listen in, share your feedback, and be among the first to experience the book before its official launch on June 1, 2026.Learn more at https://www.whatstheplandan.comPreparedness Is Leadership.It is better to prepare than repair.

Special Edition of Picks & Ponies as we discuss the release of Paul Halloran's new book featuring the story of Cody's Wish, Cody Dorman, and his family's journey through triumph and tragedy. This is a MUST WATCH...FREE BOOKS will be given away during the broadcast as well w/SPECIAL GUESTS!!---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Go to our website: https://www.hhhracingpodcast.comTwitter/X: @hhhracingpodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hhhracingpodcastTiktok: /hhhracingpodcast _________________________________________________________________________________________________Subscribe to the excellent, informative and profitable "Power Picks" Tip Sheet! Please go to: https://www.patreon.com/hhhracingpodcastFantastic ABC P4 and P5 grids, along with Spot Plays and Price Plays provided that hit close to 30% in 2025 and an ROI way above the national average. Picks arrive via email every Sat. morning for that day's races. Purchase your Power Picks NOW and make 2026 and beyond your best handicapping years ever! RECEIVE A DISCOUNT IF YOU SUBSCRIBE YEARLY INSTEAD OF MONTHLY!!__________________________________________________________________________________________________Montage Info:Track: Brian Rian Rehan - DarkMusic provided by Brian Rian RehanFree Download / Stream: https://music.brianrianrehan.com/Dark__________________________________________________________________________________________________#horseracing #horseracingtips #gambling #fanduel #gradedstakes #adelphi #fanduel #nyra #breederscup #saratoga #belmontatthebiga #twinspires #churchilldowns #gulfstreampark #pegasus #fairgroundspicks #kentuckyderby #oaklawnpark #oaklawn #tampabaydowns #louisianaderby #kentuckyderby #keeneland

Neuro Discipline by Peter Hollins tells the tale of two battling brains, and why we are predisposed to laziness and energy conservation. Time after time, we take the path of least resistance to our detriment. The key to beating this is understanding the brain's imperatives and working with them. Our brains are not wired for goal achievement. They are wired only for speed, survival, and the present moment.Neuroscience for Self-Discipline00:00 Intro01:17 Welcome, my name is...02:44 The setup of the brain - The triune brain theory05:11 Another way to think about the arrangement of the brains06:26 The brain is a network07:09 The Pleasure Principle08:37 Our perceptions of pleasure and pain 09:55 Emotion beats logic11:30 Brain is simply not wired for discipline12:36 Mel Robbins' now-famous Five Second Rule14:24 Let go of old excuses15:29 The imperatives of the brain (that we must defeat)17:01 OLD ZEN Saying & The Best Part18:04 Temptation Bundling is...20:14 Remember, “what gets rewarded gets repeated.” 21:25 It turns out that we need to trick the brain22:55 Self-discipline is24:36 WE MUST address27:00 There is a great paradox28:03 Self-discipline is at its core...28:44 AND..."Neuro Discipline" by Peter Hollins - Book PReviewBook of the Week - BOTW - Season 9 Book 13Buy the book on Amazon https://amzn.to/47NwFScGET IT. READ :)#selfdiscipline #neuroscience #growth FIND OUT which HUMAN NEED is driving all of your behaviorhttp://6-human-needs.sfwalker.com/Human Needs Psychology + Emotional Intelligence + Universal Laws of Nature = MASTER OF LIFE AWARENESShttps://www.sfwalker.com/master-life-awareness

The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch has combined the humour, inspiration, and intelligence that made his lecture such a phenomenon and given it an indelible form. Professors are asked to consider their demise and to ruminate on what matters most to them: What wisdom would we impart to the world if we knew it was our last chance? If we had to vanish tomorrow, what would we want as our legacy? When Randy Pausch, a computer science professor at Carnegie Mellon, was asked to give such a lecture, he didn't have to imagine it as his last, since he had recently been diagnosed with terminal cancer. How to Live Your Best Life00.00 Intro01:20 Welcome, my name is...02:22 What is "The Last Lecture"04:47 My own Last Lecture05:40 The most important thing to know IN LIFE07:33 Importance of Breathwork08:33 Number two thing to know to live your BEST LIFE10:17 3rd most important message in life12:17 What else is NEEDED to live your BEST LIFE13:13 What is the number one problem in life?14:05 How do you live a life which is worth living?16:12 What is the message of the Last Lecture18:52 Difference between KNOWING and BELIEVING20:24 AND..."The Last Lecture" by Randy Pausch - Book PReviewBook of the Week - BOTW - Season 9 Book 12Buy the book on Amazon https://amzn.to/4v3GFk5GET IT. READ :)#lastlecture #wisdomforlife #awareness FIND OUT which HUMAN NEED is driving all of your behaviorhttp://6-human-needs.sfwalker.com/Human Needs Psychology + Emotional Intelligence + Universal Laws of Nature = MASTER OF LIFE AWARENESShttps://www.sfwalker.com/master-life-awareness

Welcome to the Spring 2026 Book Preview with Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books!   Today, Catherine and Sarah share 12 of their most anticipated books releasing in April and May.   This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Announcements A preview of changes to this year's Summer Reading Guide — now a team effort, with more info to come in a separate episode coming in early May. One of the many benefits to supporting the podcast through either our Patreon Community or our Substack Community (both for just $7/mo) is that you get access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and Sarah share 4 bonus books (2 each) we are excited about that we did not share in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available and sign up here for Patreon and here for Substack! Highlights A lightning round of some big releases coming this spring that are not featured in our personal preview picks. Catherine's theme is spring, but Sarah's theme is summer. Looking for balance, Catherine chose books that are lighter and brighter, but not silly. Spring picks carry 4 debuts — 3 from Catherine and 1 from Sarah. Sarah's books cover 2 books about the world of comedy and 3 family dramas. Sarah has already read one of her picks — 4.5 stars! Plus, their #1 picks for spring. Big Spring Releases The Midnight Train (The Midnight World, 2) by Matt Haig (May 26) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:04] The Shippers by Katherine Center (May 19) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:06] London Falling by Patrick Radden Keefe (April 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [3:09] Last Night in Brooklyn by Xochitl Gonzalez (April 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [3:16] With a Vengeance by Riley Sager (June 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:22] Enormous Wings by Laurie Frankel (May 5) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:26] Seek the Traitor's Son (The Burning Empire, 1) by Veronica Roth (May 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:29] Other Books Mentioned State of Wonder by Ann Patchett (2011) [3:59]  Spring 2026 Book Preview [4:38] April Sarah's Picks The Midnight Show by Lee Kelly and Jennifer Thorne (April 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [7:11]  Into the Blue by Emma Brodie (April 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [15:49]  Leave Your Mess At Home by Tolani Akinola (April 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:50]  Catherine's Picks American Fantasy by Emma Straub (April 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:50] Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke (April 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [19:10]  Like This But Funnier by Hallie Cantor (April 7) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:19]  Other Books Mentioned Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2019) [8:26]  Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld (2023) [8:55] Diavola by Jennifer Thorne (2024) [11:08]  All the World Can Hold by Jung Yun (2026) [14:39]  Songs in Ursa Major by Emma Brodie (2021) [17:22]  Me Before You by Jojo Moyes (2012) [17:38]  Normal People by Sally Rooney (2018) [18:37]  The Favorites by Layne Fargo (2025) [18:40]  The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2017) [18:46]  The House of My Mother by Shari Franke (2025) [22:03]  August Lane by Regina Black (2025) [22:56]  Seven Days in June by Tia Williams (2021) [23:06]  Blue Sisters by Coco Mellors (2024) [25:07]  Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane (2019) [25:09]  The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo (2019) [25:10]  May Sarah's Picks The Mediator (Max Ringo, 1) by Robert Bailey (May 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:36] The Burning Side by Sarah Damoff (May 19) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:46] Returns and Exchanges by Kayla Rae Whitaker (May 19) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [37:30]  Catherine's Picks The Liar's Playbook by Leslie Bradford-Scott (May 5) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:31] The Last Mandarin by Louise Penny and Mellissa Fung (May 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [35:11] The Tapestry of Fate (Amina al-Sirafi, 2) by Shannon Chakraborty (May 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [40:10]  Other Books Mentioned The Boomerang by Robert Bailey (2025) [27:52]  Nowhere Girl by Cheryl Diamond (2021) [31:20]  Family of Spies by Christine Kuehn (2025) [31:22]  The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff (2025) [32:57]  State of Terror by Hillary Rodham Clinton and Louise Penny (2021) [36:07]  The Animators by Kayla Rae Whitaker (2016) [38:02]  Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver (2022) [39:01]  The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi (Amina al-Sirafi, 1) by Shannon Chakraborty (2023) [40:38]   

In Episode 220, Sarah and Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books catch up on the 16 new releases they shared in the Winter 2026 Book Preview, now that they've read them — or at least tried to!  They share their reading stats and discuss which books worked and which didn't…and why.   This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Announcement One of the many benefits to supporting the podcast through either our Patreon Community or our Substack Community (both for just $7/mo) is that you get access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and Sarah share at least 4 bonus books we are excited about that we did not share in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available and sign up here for Patreon and here for Substack! Highlights Catherine had a high success rate, but a pretty "meh" overall feel  Sarah's reading followed a familiar barbell pattern: some standout hits, several DNFs, and not much in between Catherine's ratings mostly landed as mid-range reads — with two 4.5 star wins. Sarah had one 5-star read (and a new favorite of the year), two 4.5-star reads, and one big disappointment Some of Sarah's risk-taking paid off, while other picks didn't land They share their best and worst picks from winter Books Read Before the Preview [6:08]  Sarah's Pick Whidbey by T Kira Madden (March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [6:13] Winter 2026 Book Preview [8:20] January Catherine's Picks Skylark by Paula McLain (January 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:49] Vigil by George Saunders (January 27)  | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [18:43]  Other Books Mentioned When the Stars Go Dark by Paula McLain (2021) [14:53]  Love and Ruin by Paula McLain (2018) [15:21]  February Sarah's Picks Good People by Patmeena Sabit (February 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:25] Royal Spin by Omid Scobie and Robin Benway (February 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [15:49] Kin by Tayari Jones (February 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [26:15]  Catherine's Picks More Than Enough by Anna Quindlen (February 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [22:40] Saoirse by Charleen Hurtubise (February 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [29:47] Other Books Mentioned The Force of Such Beauty by Barbara Bourland (2022) [17:32]  A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles (2016) [26:04]  An American Marriage by Tayari Jones (2018) [26:58] Silver Sparrow by Tayari Jones (2011) [26:59]   March Sarah's Picks No One's Coming by Kevin Hazzard (March 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [31:51]  All the World Can Hold by Jung Yun (March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[38:23] She Fell Away by Lenore Nash (March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [43:23]  The Complex by Karan Mahajan (March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [48:07]  Catherine's Picks Ruins by Lily Brooks-Dalton (March 31) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [35:34]  No Friend to This House by Natalie Haynes (US Release March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:07] Son of Nobody by Yann Martel (March 31) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [45:17]  How to Be Okay When Nothing Is Okay by Jenny Lawson (March 31) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:08]  Other Books Mentioned The Only Plane in the Sky by Garrett M. Graff (2019) [32:10]  Shelter by Jung Yun (2016) [38:26]  Red Widow by Alma Katsu (2021) [44:17]  Red London by Alma Katsu (2023) [44:18]  From the Top of the Episode Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy (2025) [1:10] 

Be What You Wish by Neville Goddard is a reminder that most men are totally unaware of the creative power of imagination and invariably bow before the dictates of 'facts' and accept life on the basis of the world without. But when you discover this creative power within yourself, you will boldly assert the supremacy of imagination and put all things in subjection to it. By our imagination, by our affirmations, we can change our world, we can change our future. The Law of Assumption00:00 Intro01:02 Welcome, my name is02:20 Everything depends upon our attitude upon ourselves04:02 What is meant by a "meek" man?05:29 ALL forms of the creative imagination imply...06:43 Man's only limitation is...07:52 Is there something wrong with prayer?10:33 Controlled imagination & steady attention11:44 What do experiments and Law of Assumption prove?13:46 Believing and Being ARE ONE15:45 FEELING is not only the result, but a CREATOR OF17:57 In the creation of a NEW WAY of LIFE, where do we must begin?19:37 AND..."Be What You Wish" by Neville Goddard - Book PReviewBook of the Week - BOTW - Season 9 Book 11Buy the book on Amazon https://amzn.to/4bLdfymGET IT. READ :)#lawofattraction #lawofassumption #awareness FIND OUT which HUMAN NEED is driving all of your behaviorhttp://6-human-needs.sfwalker.com/Human Needs Psychology + Emotional Intelligence + Universal Laws of Nature = MASTER OF LIFE AWARENESShttps://www.sfwalker.com/master-life-awareness

The Seven Principles For Making Marriage Work by John Gottman Ph.D. with over a million copies sold is an eminently practical guide to an emotionally intelligent and long-lasting marriage. It has revolutionized the way we understand, repair, and strengthen marriages. Straightforward yet profound, these principles teach partners new approaches for resolving conflicts, creating new common ground, and achieving greater levels of intimacy.What makes it work?00:00 Intro00:55 Welcome, my name is...02:24 What can make a marriage work?04:39 When a discussion has a "HARSH Startup"...06:14 DEFENSIVENESS08:30 PRINCIPLE 108:59 PRINCIPLE 209:36 PRINCIPLE 310:47 PRINCIPLE 412:40 PRINCIPLE 514:26 PRINCIPLE 615:36 PRINCIPLE 716:48 AND..."The Seven Principles For Making Marriage Work" by John Gottman Ph.D. - Book PReviewBook of the Week - BOTW - Season 9 Book 10Buy the book on Amazon https://amzn.to/4lznOsYGET IT. READ :)#marriageadvice #marriagegoals #awareness FIND OUT which HUMAN NEED is driving all of your behaviorhttp://6-human-needs.sfwalker.com/Human Needs Psychology + Emotional Intelligence + Universal Laws of Nature = MASTER OF LIFE AWARENESShttps://www.sfwalker.com/master-life-awareness

Importance of Being Little by Erika Christakis expertly weaves academic research, personal experience and anecdotal evidence. Message is energizing and reassuring: young children are inherently powerful, and they (and their parents) will flourish when we learn new ways of restoring the vital early learning environment to one that is best suited to the littlest learners. dDouble-down on one, simple word: play.What Children Really Need from Grownups00:00 INTRO01:12 Welcome, my name is...02:32 What Young Children REALLY NEED05:18 RELAXED OBSERVER MINDSET07:25 Parents actually need to...09:09 What is hard to understand11:31 Unusual Conundrum13:55 Small, incremental change is necessary16:41 WORDS vs. EXPERIENCE19:29 Miracle of early learning20:28 AND..."Importance of Being Little" by Erika Christakis - Book PReviewBook of the Week - BOTW - Season 9 Book 9Buy the book on Amazon https://amzn.to/4rWGV2lGET IT. READ :)#parenting #learning #awareness FIND OUT which HUMAN NEED is driving all of your behaviorhttp://6-human-needs.sfwalker.com/Human Needs Psychology + Emotional Intelligence + Universal Laws of Nature = MASTER OF LIFE AWARENESShttps://www.sfwalker.com/master-life-awareness

Sharp by Therese Huston Ph.D. a cognitive scientist unpacks the latest neuroscience research to deliver a gold mine of techniques to help you feel your sharpest. Exactly what kind of exercise helps you think on your feet? How to get focused on your most unfocused days? What if your best days weren't left to chance, but something you could control and activate at will?14 Simple Ways to Improve Your Life with Brain Science00.00 Intro01:11 Welcome, my name is...03:06 Multitasking, A DEFINITE NO, NO!04:07 FOCUS and tea vs. coffee05:24 Importance of SOUND & BINAURAL BEATS06:18 Fixation Focus Training & Importance of Walking07:39 "Just do your best" actually hurts you!08:13 DOPAMNE and motivation11:55 TRUTH about GOALS13:43 STRESS REDUCTION techniques17:14 Mistakes and what to do about it?19:48 FIND YOUR MOTIVE, ask the right question22:02 Life is stressful, so STRESS MANAGEMENT24:22 AND..."Sharp" by Therese Huston Ph.D. - Book PReviewBook of the Week - BOTW - Season 9 Book 8Buy the book on Amazon https://amzn.to/3NaSmV5GET IT. READ :)#besharp #brainscience #neuroscience FIND OUT which HUMAN NEED is driving all of your behaviorhttp://6-human-needs.sfwalker.com/Human Needs Psychology + Emotional Intelligence + Universal Laws of Nature = MASTER OF LIFE AWARENESShttps://www.sfwalker.com/master-life-awareness

Silence by Thich Nhat Hanh, one of the world's most beloved and acclaimed Buddhist leaders offers a profound guide to mastering our most powerful inner resource — silence — to help us find happiness, purpose, and peace. Burnout, anxiety, stress, brain fog, racing thoughts…all symptoms of our loud and chaotic world, making true stress and anxiety relief feel out of reach. Enter silence.A Guide to Harnessing Your Most Powerful Inner Resource00:00 INTRO01:14 Welcome, my name is...02:58 PRACTICING silence04:04 5 SOUNDS that can heal the world05:33 What MINDFULNESS gives you07:45 Sensory food09:27 One of the KEYS for finding peace and joy11:39 Is SILENCE just not talking?12:59 Other kinds of LISTENING14:09 Where is HOME really?15:07 CAN YOU be happy, without silence? 15:40 AND..."Silence" by Thich Nhat Hanh - Book PReviewBook of the Week - BOTW - Season 9 Book 7 Buy the book on Amazon https://amzn.to/4cABK3hGET IT. READ :)#silence #mindfulness #awareness FIND OUT which HUMAN NEED is driving all of your behaviorhttp://6-human-needs.sfwalker.com/Human Needs Psychology + Emotional Intelligence + Universal Laws of Nature = MASTER OF LIFE AWARENESShttps://www.sfwalker.com/master-life-awareness

Education and The Significance of Life by Jiddu Krishnamurti argues that true education must go beyond mere vocational training to foster self-knowledge, freedom, and an integrated mind, addressing the deeper meaning of life to prevent the shallowness and conflict caused by a fragmented, fear-based existence. Based on these ideas, current system is an absolute failure.00:00 Intro01:10 Welcome, my name is...02:44 Conventional Education03:42 Two Kinds of REVOLT04:44 How has current "education" failed?06:57 How are systems changed?08:10 What is the HIGHEST FUNCTION of education?10:14 Where does the confusion come from?13:41 Is there a difference between the "old" and the "young"15:01 LIFE is a well of deep waters17:01 What can a single individual do?17:52 Intellect VS. Intelligence20:03 RIGHT EDUCATION is a danger to the sovereign governments  21:31 TRUE TEACHER - EDUCATOR23:37 AND..."Education and The Significance of Life" by Jiddu Krishnamurti - Book PReviewBook of the Week - BOTW - Season 9 Book 6Buy the book on Amazon https://amzn.to/4qwIDpNGET IT. READ :)#education #knowledge #growth FIND OUT which HUMAN NEED is driving all of your behaviorhttp://6-human-needs.sfwalker.com/Human Needs Psychology + Emotional Intelligence + Universal Laws of Nature = MASTER OF LIFE AWARENESShttps://www.sfwalker.com/master-life-awareness

The Price of Money by Rob Dix is a fascinating, bracing ride through the unexpectedly wild world of money. We all depend on money every day. But almost none of us understand it. Have you ever wondered why your shopping bill keeps getting more expensive? Or how the government can produce billions out of thin air while your savings are shrinking? Or where you should put your money in an age of economic turmoil? Learn how to make better financial decisions by understanding how the world of money really works. How to Prosper in a Financial World That's Rigged Against You00:00 Intro00:52 WELCOME, my name is...02:36 "Understanding Money"04:47 3 Functions of Money06:46 Can anything be used as "money"09:01 Most important factor when choosing "money"11:14 The BUYING power of money - Inflation13:22 GOLDEN RULE14:53 Currency and Bank Notes Act of 1914 15:55 United States, the dollar and the GOLD 17:46 August 15th 1971, Nixon and a "temporary suspension" 18:55 What happens during tough times and war to the "golden standard"?20:11 HOW DO Central Banks collaborate with Commercial Banks to solve the money creation problem?22:35 REASONS for "rich" and "poor" and "government" to borrow money24:08 QE - Quantitative Easing and its effects27:52 View of the medium-term future & What do you do about it?29:19 What comes next?31:14 Think REAL not NOMINAL32:32 Understand that no one understands 33:25 Understand your value!35:11 AND..."The Price of Money" by Rob Dix - Book PReviewBook of the Week - BOTW - Season 9 Book 5Buy the book on Amazon https://amzn.to/45R8LEuGET IT. READ :)#financialliteracy #financialindependence #truthaboutmoney FIND OUT which HUMAN NEED is driving all of your behaviorhttp://6-human-needs.sfwalker.com/Human Needs Psychology + Emotional Intelligence + Universal Laws of Nature = MASTER OF LIFE AWARENESShttps://www.sfwalker.com/master-life-awareness

Ten Wild Herbs For Ten Modern Problems by Mary Thibodeau is about facing today's challenges. Its about powerful, medicinal herbs from the wild that can be used to treat ten of the most common diseases in modern times. Foraging for wild plants and medicinal herbs offers a holistic approach to today's symptoms of a world that is out of balance. Herbs from the wild can help relieve ailments, yes, but they also are part of a getting back to nature approach to living in harmony with the earth and our own bodies.Facing Today's Health Challenges With Holistic Herbal Remedies00:00 Intro01:04 Welcome, my name is...02:38 HERBS from the WILD04:17 St. John's Wort For Physical and Emotional Pain07:23 Wild Chamomile For Inflammation and Calming09:05 Saw Palmetto and Vitex His & Hers Hormonal Balancing10:50 Milk Thistle For Toxic Overload12:17 Eyebright For Eye Strain13:35 Melissa (Lemon Balm) For Cold Sores and Herpes Simplex15:22 Boswellia For Asthma16:32 Psyllium For Type 2 Diabetes17:33 Yellow Dock For Skin Problems18:23 Motherwort For Heart Disease21:00 AND..."Ten Wild Herbs For Ten Modern Problems" by Mary Thibodeau - Book PReviewBook of the Week - BOTW - Season 9 Book 4Buy the book on Amazon https://amzn.to/4akyYxBGET IT. READ :)#plantmedicine #naturalremedy #medicinalherbs FIND OUT which HUMAN NEED is driving all of your behaviorhttp://6-human-needs.sfwalker.com/Human Needs Psychology + Emotional Intelligence + Universal Laws of Nature = MASTER OF LIFE AWARENESShttps://www.sfwalker.com/master-life-awareness

The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying by Sogyal Rinpoche brings together the ancient wisdom of Tibet with modern research on death and dying and the nature of the universe to provide a magnificent source of sacred inspiration from the heart of the Tibetan tradition. It is an enlightening, inspiring, and comforting manual for life and death. There are few books on the interplay of life and death that might be more comprehensive, practical, and wise.How to prepare for Death?00:00 Intro00:57 Welcome my name is...02:22 "Modern" world's understanding of DEATH03:44 Industrial Society - A Fanatical Religion05:31 Buddhist Approach to LIFE and DEATH - BARDOS07:37 What is our task?09:20 What is CHANGE (in our minds)?10:42 Difficulties and Obstacles11:47 TRUTH and the DRIVING FORFCE behind re-birth13:24 TWO PEOPLE live inside of YOU14:31 To follow the path of WISDOM - NEVER BEEN MORE URGENT15:35 Recognizing WHO IS a true MASTER17:32 Being AWARE of your own FEARS about DYING19:10 Usefulness of the BARDO Teachings22:56 AND..."The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying" by Sogyal Rinpoche - Book PReviewBook of the Week - BOTW - Season 9 Book 3Buy the book on Amazon https://amzn.to/4r7Z4K4GET IT. READ :)#lifeafterdeath #preparedness #awarenessFIND OUT which HUMAN NEED is driving all of your behaviorhttp://6-human-needs.sfwalker.com/Human Needs Psychology + Emotional Intelligence + Universal Laws of Nature = MASTER OF LIFE AWARENESShttps://www.sfwalker.com/master-life-awareness

Journey of Souls by Michael Newton PhD provides us with latest details and most recent groundbreaking discoveries that reveal, for the first time, the mystery of life in the spirit world after death on Earth — proof that our consciousness survives!Case Studies of Life Between Lives00:00 Intro00:53 WELCOME, my name is...02:36 HOW is it possible to reach the SOUL through hypnosis?04:13 What are the similarities of AFTERLIFE RECOLLECTION?05:21 What do the caregivers to the dying say?06:10 What happens to mental and physical "luggage"? 07:31 IMPACT of the soul connecting to the BODY08:05 ORIENTATION and SELF-EVALUATION10:29 Group Placement12:44 What does "Spirit World" actually look like?15:07 ENIGMA of the knowledge of SOULS17:11 Once BIRTH has taken place18:14 The most TROUBLESOME CONCERN - Causality of EVIL19:50 AND..."Journey of Souls" by Michael Newton PhD - Book PReviewBook of the Week - BOTW - Season 9 Book 2Buy the book on Amazon https://amzn.to/45QrPlYGET IT. READ :)#souljourney #lifeafterdeath #awareness FIND OUT which HUMAN NEED is driving all of your behaviorhttp://6-human-needs.sfwalker.com/Human Needs Psychology + Emotional Intelligence + Universal Laws of Nature = MASTER OF LIFE AWARENESShttps://www.sfwalker.com/master-life-awareness

In this episode, Jackie shares a preview of her book, Think Homeschool, written for parents considering whether homeschooling might be right for their family. This book isn't about convincing you to homeschool. It's an invitation to slow down, ask better questions, and rethink how learning and family life can work together. Get the full audiobook for free here.   © 2018–2026 HomeSchool ThinkTank, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Welcome to the Winter 2026 Book Preview with Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books!   Today, Catherine and Sarah share 16 of their most anticipated books releasing from January through March.   This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Announcement The 2026 Reading Tracker is out! This year brings upgraded features across the board — including NEW average star rating and 5-star book tracking for every stat on the Dashboard — plus an updated Lite Tracker for those who prefer a streamlined version. Both Trackers are ONLY available to paid Patreon or Substack subscribers ($7/month) and is no longer sold separately. To avoid Apple's 30% fee, be sure to join directly from the Patreon website (mobile or desktop). Join our Patreon Community (here) OR become a Substack Paid Member (here)!   One of the many benefits to supporting the podcast through either our Patreon Community or our Substack Community (both for just $7/mo) is that you get access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and Sarah share at least 4 bonus books we are excited about that we did not share in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available and sign up here for Patreon and here for Substack! Highlights A lightning round of some big releases coming this winter that we're not featuring in today's preview. Catherine chose books by authors she knows and trusts. This year, Sarah dug deep into the publisher's catalog for potential hidden gems. Sarah's books cover literary suspense, literary fiction, brain candy, nonfiction, and a thriller from 2 debut authors and 3 repeat authors. Sarah has already read one of her picks — and it was 4.5 stars! Plus, their #1 picks for winter. Big Winter Releases The First Time I Saw Him by Laura Dave (January 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [2:39] The Future Saints by Ashley Winstead (January 20) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [2:43] My Husband's Wife by Alice Feeney (January 20) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [2:46] Once and Again by Rebecca Serle (March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:49] Crux by Gabriel Tallent (January 20) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:53] Lake Effect by Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney (March 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [2:56] Two Kinds of Stranger by Steve Cavanagh (March 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:00] Lady Tremaine by Rachel Hochhauser (March 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:03] Daughter of Egypt by Marie Benedict (March 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:21]  Missing Sam by Thrity Umrigar (January 27) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:24]  This Is Not About Us by Allegra Goodman (February 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:28]  Half His Age by Jennette McCurdy (January 20) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [3:31]  Other Books Mentioned I'm Glad My Mother Died by Jennette McCurdy (2022) [3:35]  Winter 2026 Book Preview [6:57] January Catherine's Picks Skylark by Paula McLain (January 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:53] Vigil by George Saunders (January 27)  | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [16:48]  Other Books Mentioned Circling the Sun by Paula McLain (2015) [11:04] When the Stars Go Dark by Paula McLain (2021) [13:12]  Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders (2017) [17:39]  February Sarah's Picks Good People by Patmeena Sabit (February 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [7:59] Royal Spin by Omid Scobie and Robin Benway (February 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [13:14] Kin by Tayari Jones (February 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [24:01]  Catherine's Picks Saoirse by Charleen Hurtubise (February 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [22:19] More Than Enough by Anna Quindlen (February 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [28:05] Other Books Mentioned Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng (2014) [9:37]  Happiness Falls by Angie Kim (2023) [9:40]  Real Americans by Rachel Khong (2024) [9:42]  The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini (2003) [9:50]  Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston (2019) [14:04]  Finding Freedom by Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand (2020) [14:53]  Endgame by Omid Scobie (2023) [14:57]  Long Live the Tribe of Fatherless Girls by T Kira Madden (2019) [19:20]  An American Marriage by Tayari Jones (2018) [24:11] Silver Sparrow by Tayari Jones (2011) [24:13]   Leaving Atlanta by Tayari Jones (2002) [26:48]  Alternate Side by Anna Quindlen (2018) [29:43]  After Annie by Anna Quindlen (2024) [29:51]  March Sarah's Picks No One's Coming by Kevin Hazzard (March 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [30:07]  Whidbey by T Kira Madden (March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:50] All the World Can Hold by Jung Yun (March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[35:31] She Fell Away by Lenore Nash (March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [41:01]  The Complex by Karan Mahajan (March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [46:35]  Catherine's Picks Ruins by Lily Brooks-Dalton (March 31) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [33:02]  No Friend to This House by Natalie Haynes (US Release March 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:44] Son of Nobody by Yann Martel (March 31) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [43:11]  How to Be Okay When Nothing Is Okay by Jenny Lawson (March 31) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:15]  Other Books Mentioned A Thousand Naked Strangers by Kevin Hazzard (2016) [30:48]  The Light Pirate by Lily Brooks-Dalton (2022) [33:06]  Good Morning, Midnight by Lily Brooks-Dalton (2016) [33:13]  Shelter by Jung Yun (2016) [35:41]  Medium Rare by A. Natasha Joukovsky (March 3, 2026) [40:39]  Red Widow by Alma Katsu (2021) [41:45]  Red London by Alma Katsu (2023) [41:46]  Life of Pi by Yann Martel (2001) [43:38]  The High Mountains of Portugal by Yann Martel (2016) [46:16]  The Association of Small Bombs by Karan Mahajan (2016) [47:17]  Let's Pretend This Never Happened by Jenny Lawson (2012) [50:04]  Other Links The New Yorker | "The True Margaret," by Karan Mahajan 

First Things First by Stephen R. Covey is the gold standard for time management books. Rather than offering you another clock, First Things First provides you with a compass, because where you're headed is more important than how fast you're going. Importance over urgency, compass over a clock, kairos over chronos and effectiveness over efficiency. Evolution of Time Management0:00 Intro01:04 WELCOME, my name is...02:34 There is no Shortcut, there is a PATH03:15 1st GENERATION of 3 Generations of Time Management03:53 2nd GENERATION of 3 Generations of Time Management04:14 3rd GENERATION of 3 Generations of Time Management06:42 Issues with “Time Management” PARADIGMS08:23 CHRONOS vs. KAIROS time09:33 Management vs. Leadership10:55 More then Evolution we need a Revolution12:05 IMPORTANCE vs. URGENCY Paradigm13:55 What PRINCIPLES are NOT14:33 The LAW OF THE FARM (natural vs. social systems)16:23 Space between the Stimulus and Response17:24 POWER of VISION19:21 BALANCE, a True North Principle21:31 AND…"First Things First" by Stephen R. Covey - Book PReviewBook of the Week - BOTW - Season 9 Book 1Buy the book on Amazon https://amzn.to/44ULfG7GET IT. READ :)#timemanagement #awareness #growth FIND OUT which HUMAN NEED is driving all of your behaviorhttp://6-human-needs.sfwalker.com/Human Needs Psychology + Emotional Intelligence + Universal Laws of Nature = MASTER OF LIFE AWARENESShttps://www.sfwalker.com/master-life-awareness

The Secret History of America by Manly P. Hall, who believed that America was gifted with a unique purpose to explore and share principles of personal freedom, self-governance, and independent thought, explores the rich destiny, unseen history, and hidden meaning of America. There is a hidden past and unfolding future of the America nation, very different from what you learned about in schools.Classic Writings on Our Nation's Unknown Past and Inner Purpose0:00 Intro0:55 WELCOME! Today we look at…02:02 A Radical Thought Movement04:04 The 3 Americas 06:24 Overwhelming PROOF09:06 FATE of Iroquois League of Peace11:18 Are we supposed to believe that…12:45 The Great Evil of City building13:50 The Iroquois League vs. European “values”15:58 Struggle of the TWO Forces17:39 Adolescent vs. Mature traditions19:41 An Individual MUST REALIZE21:27 As long as you play games with your own mind you…22:47 AND…"The Secret History of America" by Manly P. Hall - Book PReviewBook of the Week - BOTW - Season 8 Book 52Buy the book on Amazon https://amzn.to/4pgYiJ8GET IT. READ :)#secrethistory #americanhistory #awareness FIND OUT which HUMAN NEED is driving all of your behaviorhttp://6-human-needs.sfwalker.com/Human Needs Psychology + Emotional Intelligence + Universal Laws of Nature = MASTER OF LIFE AWARENESShttps://www.sfwalker.com/master-life-awareness

Destressifying by Davidji Book PReview, drawing on decades of experience working with individuals in extreme, high-pressure situations, including business leaders, world-class athletes, members of the military, Special Forces, and those in crisis, davidji will show you how to handle any type of stress that life throws at you. This book will allow you to determine the speed at which life comes at you and guide you to deeper fulfillment, greater empowerment, and true peace of mind.The Real-World Guide to Personal Empowerment, Lasting Fulfillment, and Peace of Mind0:00 Intro01:04 WELCOME! Today we look at...02:15 Destressifying04:03 5 KEYS to living a destressifying life04:57 WHAT IS destressifying (phisical, mental, emotional, relationship AND...)07:21 5 TYPES of stress09:28 There is something called GOOD STRESS10:48 3 KEY ASPECTS of good stress12:19 6 stages of stress - STAGE 112:48 STAGE 213:10 STAGE 313:30 STAGE 413:54 STAGE 514:14 STAGE 615:33 SODA - Stop Observe Detach Awaken17:22 4 WAYS to proceed with a RELATIONSHIP18:52 Connection to something bigger20:57 As you feel the physical signs of STRESS, take action23:05 AND..."Destressifying" by Davidji - Book PReviewBook of the Week - BOTW - Season 8 Book 51Buy the book on Amazon https://amzn.to/3YbG6WoGET IT. READ :)#stressreduction #stressrelief #stressfree FIND OUT which HUMAN NEED is driving all of your behaviorhttp://6-human-needs.sfwalker.com/Human Needs Psychology + Emotional Intelligence + Universal Laws of Nature = MASTER OF LIFE AWARENESShttps://www.sfwalker.com/master-life-awareness

Do the Hard Things First by Scott Allan Book PReview delivers a practical, no-nonsense framework to help you finally stop avoiding difficult tasks and start taking massive action—even when you don't feel like it. This isn't another book filled with motivational fluff or vague advice.How to Win Over Procrastination & Master the Habit of Doing Difficult Work"Do the Hard Things First" by Scott Allan - Book PReviewBook of the Week - BOTW - Season 8 Book 50Buy the book on Amazon https://amzn.to/4pH8njRGET IT. READ :)#procrastination #dothehardthings #growth FIND OUT which HUMAN NEED is driving all of your behaviorhttp://6-human-needs.sfwalker.com/Human Needs Psychology + Emotional Intelligence + Universal Laws of Nature = MASTER OF LIFE AWARENESShttps://www.sfwalker.com/master-life-awareness

In Episode 213, Sarah and Chrissie (@ChrissieWhitley) wrap up the year with the Best Books of 2025 Genre Awards. They reveal their Overall Best Books (Fiction and Nonfiction) and a full breakdown by genre, including: Best Literary Fiction, Best Romance, Best Brain Candy, Best Genre Mash-Up, and more! Plus, they share the winners for these same genres as chosen by the Sarah's Bookshelves Live Member Community. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Announcements The 2026 Reading Tracker is out! This year brings upgraded features across the board — including NEW average star rating and 5-star book tracking for every stat on the Dashboard — plus an updated Lite Tracker for those who prefer a streamlined version. Both Trackers are ONLY available to paid Patreon or Substack subscribers ($7/month) and is no longer sold separately. To avoid Apple's 30% fee, be sure to join directly from the Patreon website (mobile or desktop). Join our Patreon Community (here) OR become a Substack Paid Member (here)! Highlights Podcast reflections from 2025 — including top episodes based on download stats. A brief overview of Sarah's and Chrissie's 2025 year in reading. Their favorite books of the year: overall and by genre, including the SBL Member Community's picks. 2025 Genre Awards [12:39] Sarah The River Is Waiting by Wally Lamb (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [12:45]  The Favorites by Layne Fargo (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [16:32]  The Death of Us by Abigail Dean (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [20:13]  One Good Thing by Georgia Hunter (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org   [23:48]  The Compound by Aisling Rawle (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [28:47]  August Lane by Regina Black (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [36:03]  The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [41:54]  Family of Spies by Christine Kuehn (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [45:36] This American Woman by Zarna Garg (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [50:00] Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [52:59] The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [54:44]  Finding Grace by Loretta Rothschild (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [56:29] Next of Kin by Gabrielle Hamilton (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org   [1:00:10]  The Elements by John Boyne (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:03:10] Chrissie Fox by Joyce Carol Oates (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [13:42]  Joy Moody Is Out of Time by Kerryn Mayne (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:36]  Marble Hall Murders (Susan Ryeland, 3) by Anthony Horowitz (2025) | Amazon| Bookshop.org  [21:39]  The Pretender by Jo Harkin (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [25:51]  What We Can Know by Ian McEwan (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [30:28]  To Clutch a Razor (Curse Bearer, 2) by Veronica Roth (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [32:39]  The Love Haters by Katherine Center (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [37:03]  These Heathens by Mia McKenzie (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [43:31]  The Zorg by Siddarth Kara (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [47:11]  Misbehaving at the Crossroads by Honorée Fanonne Jeffers (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [51:09] A Sea of Unspoken Things by Adrienne Young (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [53:38]  Awake in the Floating City by Susanna Kwan (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[55:11] Heartwood by Amity Gaige (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [57:16]  Future Boy by Michael J. Fox (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:01:23]  Reports of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated by James Goodhand (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:06:07]  SBL Member Community The Correspondent by Virginia Evans (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [15:43] The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [19:02] Heartwood by Amity Gaige (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [22:52]  Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:21] The Compound by Aisling Rawle (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:28]  The River Has Roots by Amal El-Mohtar (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:23]  One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:39] Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [40:57] Big Dumb Eyes by Nate Bargatze (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [45:15] Hot Air by Marcy Dermansky (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [45:17] Jane and Dan at the End of the World by Colleen Oakley (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [45:19] The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [45:22] Run for the Hills by Kevin Wilson (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [45:24] So Far Gone by Jess Walter (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [45:27] This American Woman by Zarna Garg (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:28] Everything is Tuberculosis by John Green (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:20] Ordinary Time by Annie Jones (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [52:32] Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [54:31]  Among Friends by Hal Ebbott (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [59:25] Awake by Jen Hatmaker (2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:02:33] Other Books Mentioned Leaving by Roxana Robinson (2024) [13:51]  Heart the Lover by Lily King (2025) [15:35]  Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy (2025) [15:58]  Audition by Katie Kitamura (2025) [16:09]  The Names by Florence Knapp (2025) [16:11] Dream State by Eric Puchner (2025) [16:13] Lenny Marks Gets Away with Murder by Kerryn Mayne (2023) [17:45]  Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry (2025) [18:46]  Say You'll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez (2025) [18:56]  The Academy by Elin Hilderbrand and Shelby Cunningham (2025) [19:18] Abigail and Alexa Save the Wedding by Lian Dolan (2025) [19:23] Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll (2023) [21:28]  The Ghostwriter by Julie Clark (2025) [23:03] The Impossible Fortune by Richard Osman (2025) [23:07]   Dead Money by Jakob Kerr (2025) [23:13] The Boomerang by Robert Bailey (2025) [23:15]   We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter (2017) [24:09]  Tell Me an Ending by Jo Harkin (2022) [26:03] What Kind of Paradise by Janelle Brown (2025) [26:55] Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2025) [27:06]   The Stolen Queen by Fiona Davis (2025) [27:12] Isola by Allegra Goodman (2025) [28:13]  Merge by Grace Walker (2025) [31:35] The Memory Collectors by Dete Meserve (2025) [31:43]  Sunrise on the Reaping by Susanna Collins (2025) [31:48] Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor (2025) [31:01] The Strange Case of Jane O. by Karen Thompson Walker (2025) [32:05] When Among Crows by Veronica Roth (2024) [33:05]  Katabasis by R. F. Kuang (2025) [34:23] Babel by R. F. Kuang (2022) [34:36] Yellowface by R. F. Kuang (2023) [34:37] A Drop of Corruption by Robert Jackson Bennett (2025) [34:49] The Tainted Cup by Robert Jackson Bennett (2024) [34:54] Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros (2025) [34:58] The Everlasting by Alix E. Harrow (2025) [35:05] Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by V. E. Schwab (2025) [35:31] The Art of Scandal by Regina Black (2023) [36:49] The Favorites by Layne Fargo (2025) [38:54]  The Buffalo Hunter Hunter by Stephen Graham Jones (2025) [40:30] Hungerstone by Kat Dunn (2025) [40:37] We Love You, Bunny by Mona Awad (2025) [40:42] The Staircase in the Woods by Chuck Wendig (2025) [41:19] Bat Eater and Other Names for Cora Zeng by Kylie Lee Baker (2025) [41:30] When the Moon Hits Your Eye by John Scalzi (2025) [44:56] The Wager by David Grann (2023) [47:34]  Replaceable You by Mary Roach (2025) [49:04] The Gales of November by John U. Bacon (2025) [49:11] Careless People by Sarah Wynn-Williams (2025) [51:58] All the Way to the River by Elizabeth Gilbert (2025) [52:08] Awake by Jen Hatmaker (2025) [52:24] Nobody's Girl by Virginia Roberts Giuffre (2025) [52:28] One Day, Everyone Will Always Have Been Against This by Omar El Akkad (2025) [52:49] The God of the Woods by Liz Moore (2024) [53:22] Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall (2025) [54:21] Life, and Death, and Giants by Ron Rindo (2025) [54:27] Woodworking by Emily St. James (2025) [56:16] Buckeye by Patrick Ryan (2025) [58:57] The Elements by John Boyne (2025) [59:15]   Deep Cuts by Holly Brickley (2025) [59:49] My Friends by Fredrik Backman (2025) [59:51] The Heart's Invisible Furies by John Boyne (2017) [1:05:51] James by Percival Everett (2024) [1:08:07]  Top Podcast Episodes Ep. 199: Best Books of 2025 (So Far) with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) and Susie (@NovelVisits) Ep. 184: Best Books of 2024 Genre Awards with Susie (@NovelVisits) Ep. 185: Winter 2025 Book Preview with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) Ep. 205: Fall 2025 Book Preview with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) Ep. 192: Spring 2025 Book Preview with Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) Ep. 198: Best of Thrillers with Anderson McKean of Page & Palette (@PagePalette) Ep. 188: Best of Fantasy with Chrissie (@ChrissieWhitley) Ep. 193: Clare Leslie Hall (author of Broken Country) Ep. 187: State of the Industry in 2024 with Kathleen Schmidt (@KathMSchmidt), author of the Publishing Confidential Substack Ep. 208: Best of Narrative Nonfiction with Elizabeth Barnhill of Fabled Bookshop (@FabledBookshop)

The Power of Awakening by Dr. Wayne W. Dyer, beloved spiritual teacher who used to say, "This is not about self-help. It's about self-realization, which is way beyond self-help." offers spiritual tools to transcend your current circumstances and old patterns in order to reach true fulfillment. Wayne will help you understand what an illusion much of life is, so you can see the big picture and spark deep transformation (that is, "the ability to go beyond your form"), resulting in peace and harmony in all areas of your life. Mindfulness Practices and Spiritual Tools to Transform Your Life0:00 Intro1:14 WELCOME, in this video we...2:23 Waking and Dreaming levels of consciousness3:48 The Highest form of Intelligence you can get to is5:00 The PATH to understanding the BIG PICTURE is8:14 As you become more forgiving...8:54 KEY 1 - Banish the Doubt10:28 KEY 2 - Cultivate the Witness11:45 KEY 3 - Shut Down the Inner Dialog13:23 KEY 4 Tame the ego16:03 How do we get to World Peace?17:36 An interesting Visualization Study19:30 How do you use your present moment?19:55 As you go into the Meditative State you...20:48 This is more then "self-help"!22:18 AND..."The Power of Awakening" by Dr. Wayne W. Dyer - Book PReviewBook of the Week - BOTW - Season 8 Book 49Buy the book on Amazon https://amzn.to/3KsfXzsGET IT. READ :)#spirituality #awakening #enlightenment FIND OUT which HUMAN NEED is driving all of your behaviorhttp://6-human-needs.sfwalker.com/Human Needs Psychology + Emotional Intelligence + Universal Laws of Nature = MASTER OF LIFE AWARENESShttps://www.sfwalker.com/master-life-awareness

A lake. A glass-calm afternoon. And a monster just beyond where we could see.This is a backstory reading from my new book, The Light Between the Leaves (April 2026) — Truth #2: “Envy is Ignorance.” The story (called “The Lake”) sets up why comparing your life to others ignores what's under the surface — the unseen predators, pressures, and private costs we never witness. No quick tips here; just the origin story behind a lesson that changes how you look at envy.Pre-order the book now https://bit.ly/DrScottLightBetweentheLeavesYTSubscribe for the next chapter segment (the Application) and more mental-health tools grounded in real life.Next Steps:

The Science of Self-Discipline by Peter Hollins reminds us that your best intentions are not enough. Learn how to scientifically engineer a disciplined existence, become relentless, and never give up. Whatever you want in your life, self-discipline is the missing piece. When you understand what drives your cravings and the true roots of self-discipline, you'll be able to rise above your temporary discomfort and focus on what really matters.The Willpower, Mental Toughness, and Self-Control to Resist Temptation and Achieve Your Goals (Live a Disciplined Life)0:00 Intro1:00 WELCOME, today we look at...2:53 Discipline, is what usually keeps you from...04:02 What we can say confidently is...05:00 FOCUS & 3 "executive functions"07:23 Essential part of discipline  is...09:21 Main categories of MOTIVATION11:14 What is really important?12:19 The 40% Rule14:44 THE KEY 16:52 The Most Effective Exercise20:08 More then our Physical Environment21:24 A set of Questions to help you & 6 factors of influence25:55 AND..."The Science of Self-Discipline" by Peter Hollins - Book PReviewBook of the Week - BOTW - Season 8 Book 48Buy the book on Amazon https://amzn.to/4pJ7SFjGET IT. READ :)#selfdiscipline #willpower #selfcontrol FIND OUT which HUMAN NEED is driving all of your behaviorhttp://6-human-needs.sfwalker.com/Human Needs Psychology + Emotional Intelligence + Universal Laws of Nature = MASTER OF LIFE AWARENESShttps://www.sfwalker.com/master-life-awareness

Re-Awaken the Immortal Within by Jason Breshears, the man behind the amazing @Archaix138 is one of those with the ability to change one's life, and this book has all the earmarks of being such a treasure. We are talking about profound changes - something within these pages which strikes at the depth of one's being and causes a powerful (and very welcome) new direction to take hold. Herein lies a chance to re-awaken the Immortal within.0:00 INTRO01:10 Welcome! Today We Look at…02:25 Great Teacher of old LIED???03:44 Simulation Theory05:30 You see, you live in a SIMULATION06:19 Simulacrums's Deceit07:21 Reality tunnels10:36 Information is WHAT?13:01 One who is properly informed is…15:02 The Answer is very simple17:57 Will this hinder your efforts?20:19 You are forced to be a deceiver21:27 ALL THAT MATTERS22:55 OK. Money mentally, but what about physically?24:50 You have to remember, in order to execute a difference in life27:57 We are where again???28:45 If you BRAKE PATTERN, Simulacrum does what?30:59 We are co-creators32:17 Inside Simulacrum, the EVER WATCHFUL AIX32:40 Immortal Playground34:39 You've got to realize guys, it a neutral field35:07 Artificial Intelligence X (AIX) is…37:24 Builder Protocols39:01 Who Are You?42:15 AND..."Re-Awaken the Immortal Within" by Jason Breshears - Book PReview Book of the Week - BOTW - Season 8 Book 47Buy the book https://jasonbreshears.podia.com/re-awaken-the-immortal-withinGET IT. READ :)#immortalwarrior  #awaken  #simulatedreality  FIND OUT which HUMAN NEED is driving all of your behaviorhttp://6-human-needs.sfwalker.com/Human Needs Psychology + Emotional Intelligence + Universal Laws of Nature = MASTER OF LIFE AWARENESShttps://www.sfwalker.com/master-life-awareness

The Endorphin Effect by Dr. William Bloom, Britain's leading holistic teacher, presents a major breakthrough in the field of healthcare and personal development. He reveals a revolutionary method that enables you to produce endorphins for vitality and a positive mood whenever you want, even when exhausted or in a crisis.A breakthrough strategy for holistic health and spiritual wellbeing"The Endorphin Effect" by Dr. William Bloom - Book PReviewBook of the Week - BOTW - Season 8 Book 46Buy the book on Amazon https://amzn.to/49v0Uz8GET IT. READ :)#endorphins #happiness #awareness FIND OUT which HUMAN NEED is driving all of your behaviorhttp://6-human-needs.sfwalker.com/Human Needs Psychology + Emotional Intelligence + Universal Laws of Nature = MASTER OF LIFE AWARENESShttps://www.sfwalker.com/master-life-awareness

In Episode 211, Sarah and Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books catch up on the 14 new releases they shared in the Fall 2025 Book Preview, now that they've read them — or at least tried to!  They share their reading stats and discuss which books worked and which didn't…and why.   This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Highlights Catherine's success rate bounces back from summer. Sarah's fall reading felt kind of "meh" despite a higher success rate. They also share their combined 2025 Preview success rates. Their fall pick ratings were all over the place, with only one DNF, but books range from 2 to 4 stars, with Catherine boasting the sole 5-star book! A couple of books suffered from an identity crisis, while others were surprise successes.  Catherine's assignment for next season is to check the page count and look for authors following-up award-winning books. They name their best and worst books picks for fall! Books We Read Before the Preview [5:57]  SEPTEMBER Sarah's Picks The Wilderness by Angela Flournoy (September 16) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[6:01] Fall 2025 Circle Back [7:23] AUGUST Sarah's Picks Dominion by Addie E. Citchens (August 19) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [7:29] We Loved to Run by Stephanie Reents (August 26) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[13:38] Catherine's Pick Katabasis by R. F. Kuang (August 26) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:59] Other Books Mentioned Culpability by Bruce Holsinger (2025) [9:28]  Inferno by Dante (c. 1321) [11:29]   Babel by R. F. Kuang (2022) [13:16]  Yellowface by R. F. Kuang (2023) [13:25] The Ensemble by Aja Gabel (2018) [16:12] SEPTEMBER Sarah's Picks Buckeye by Patrick Ryan (September 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:51] Hot Desk by Laura Dickerman (September 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [27:30] Underspin by E. Y. Zhao (September 23) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:06] Catherine's Picks The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny by Kiran Desai (September 23) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [17:12]  Guilty by Definition by Susie Dent (US release: September 30) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:01] Other Books Mentioned The Flatshare by Beth O'Leary (2019) [28:07]  OCTOBER Catherine's Picks Workhorse by Caroline Palmer (October 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:24] The Wayfinder by Adam Johnson (October 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[34:49] Other Books Mentioned The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger (2003) [32:43]  The Orphan Master's Son by Adam Johnson (2012) [38:35]  The Inheritance of Loss by Kiran Desai (2006) [39:03]  NOVEMBER Sarah's Pick Lightbreakers by Aja Gabel (November 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:37] Catherine's Pick Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashino (November 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[42:48] Other Books Mentioned The Ensemble by Aja Gabel (2018) [44:43]  DECEMBER Catherine's Pick The Day I Lost You by Ruth Mancini (US release: December 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:49]

This is an excerpt from my new book, The Light Between the Leaveshttps://bit.ly/DrScottLightBetweentheLeavesYTThis is my most vulnerable story yet—about losing myself, chasing belonging in all the wrong places, and choosing to protect what's still alive inside. If you've ever felt numb, polluted by others' values, or tempted to give up on the “old you,” this is for you.If it resonates, drop a comment, share it with someone who needs it, and subscribe for the next section: the application—how to use this in your life.Next Steps:

On episode 26, we look at the fledgling Fox Patrol mercenary group, and discuss the newly released Outfoxed novel. I'm joined by the author and creator of the Fox Patrol, Bryan Young, as we dive into this small unit trying to make their way in the ilClan era. 0:00 - 12:46 Intro12:46 - 40:01 Lore & Presentation40:01 - 1:11:18 Outfoxed Preview & Discussion1:11:18 - 1:15:53 Forcepack Chat1:15:18 - 1:22:02 Tabletop Play1:22:02 - 1:26:43 Sponsor & Shout-outs/OutroFind more of Bryan Young at his site:https://swankmotron.comCheck out our sponsor: Fortress Miniatures & Games!https://www.fortressminiaturesandgames.com/Join the Valhalla Club Discord!https://discord.gg/NjMqnXqPYsFollow me on socials:Follow on X/Twitter: https://x.com/MercStarPodcastFollow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mercenarystarpodcast/Follow on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mercenarystar.bsky.socialMusic:TI-84 - @StreamBeatsbyHarrisHeller Neon Renegade - @StreamBeatsbyHarrisHeller ​

,The team at MMD HQ has always been enthusiastic about fall reading. We shared our first Fall Book Preview back in 2019, and last week we released the seventh annual edition. Today, we're sharing a sneak peek into this year's event that concludes with Anne describing the first three books in our literary and contemporary fiction category.  Our Fall Book Preview offers the gentle guidance you're looking for in selecting your fall reads. This preview and its 35 books are all hand-selected by Anne, and in our Unboxing event recording, she tells you about why she chose every title and why it might (or might not!) appeal to YOU. If this excerpt makes you want to go deeper into this particular type of book talk, you can access your own copy of this year's Fall Book Preview and the Unboxing replay immediately by joining our Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club, our Patreon Community, or purchasing your a la carte ticket. Find all of the details and choose your preferred way to get your Preview at modernmrsdarcy.com/fbp. Find out more about today's episode at our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/495.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Seven and a half years ago, a simple question on a cousin's patio changed everything: "How do you stay intentional as a dad?" That moment sparked what became 400 podcast conversations, over 1,000 men mobilized in activation events, and a million dollars raised for ministries serving the fatherless. In this milestone episode, Jeff celebrates by looking back at God's faithfulness, sharing the first-ever preview of the upcoming Dad Awesome book, and highlighting transformational moments from 16 unforgettable conversations that shaped this movement. Takeaways: Milestone moments matter - Pausing to celebrate and shine the spotlight on what God has done builds faith for the journey ahead Small yeses create waves - Dad Awesome wasn't built on one grand gesture but hundreds of small commitments to growth over eight years Intentionality transforms everything - Just like discovering great coffee, small shifts in daily rhythms can revolutionize your entire approach to fatherhood Stories cascade through generations - When dads point to God's goodness consistently, children naturally learn to do the same with their own kids Community accelerates growth - The DA plus three model shows that fatherhood gets exponentially better when you're not doing it alone Generosity reveals faith - Taking steps forward in generosity, whether with time, words, or resources, grows our trust in God's faithfulness Links: Learn about the next DadAwesome Accelerator Cohort Subscribe to DadAwesome Messages: Text the word "Dad" to (651) 370-8618 Download a free chapter of the DadAwesome book Clips from 16 DadAwesome Episodes: 25 | Patei Iyegha 38 | Pursuing Shalom, Chasing Dreams & Being All-On-Dad (Paul Hurckman) 77 | Crafting Key Moments, Modeling KINDNESS & Praying with Desperation (Ryan Skoog) 98 | Awaken The Warrior Heart (Pablo Ceron) 137 | Spirit-Filled Parenting, Hearing God's Voice, & Shaping our Kids as Arrows (Seth Dahl) 148 | Andy Crouch - The Tech-Wise Family 187 | Jon Tyson on Skillful Manhood, Capturing First Moments & The Intentional Father 214 | Context, Fainting Goats & Being Secretly Awesome (Bob Goff) 238 | A Place for the Heart (Ken Helser) 250 | Raising Kids Humbly, Loving Your Wife Fully, and Soaring Joyfully (Morgan Snyder) 286 | Parenting for the Third Generation, Building Family Assets, and Championing the Beauty of Fatherhood (Jeremy Pryor) 298 | Dialing In, Leading with Love, and Being the Loudest Voice in Your Child's Ears (Dr. Jackson Drumgoole) 314 | Tackling Fear in a War Zone, Modeling Courage, and Embracing Your True Identity (Jamie Winship) 364 | Bedtime Blessings, Birthday Letters, and 5 Simple but Life-Changing Habits (Justin Whitmel Earley) 375 | Experiential Christianity, Lingering with Jesus, and The War for Your Attention (John Eldredge) 385 | Raising Kids Who Live Generously, Creating Miracle Moments, and the 1% Challenge (Todd Harper)    

MichaelAaron and Richard open with a sneak preview of their upcoming book, Hacking the Human Mind. Next, they revisit the Pringles case study from way back in Episode 7 - a new form factor, a sticky rhyme (“once you pop…”), and the power of fluency. They also unpack skin-in-the-game incentives to favor outcomes over optics.

Welcome to the Fall 2025 Book Preview with Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books!   Today, Catherine and Sarah share 14 of their most anticipated books releasing from mid-August through December.   This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Announcement One of the many benefits to supporting the podcast through either our Patreon Community or our Substack Community (both for just $7/mo) is that you get access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and I share at least 4 bonus books we are excited about that we did not share in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available and sign up here for Patreon and here for Substack! Highlights A lightning round of some big releases coming this fall that we're not featuring in today's preview. Odd fall pickings meant they both chose to feature 7 books each. Catherine's choices are a grab bag mix: academia, mysteries, a love story, and a snarky lighter read. Of Sarah's seven books, there are 3 debut authors and 1 repeat author — and 2 sports books! Some of Sarah's picks slide her right from sad girl summer into sad girl fall.  Sarah has already read and rated one of her picks — and it was a success! Plus, their #1 picks for fall. Big Fall Releases Wreck by Catherine Newman (October 28) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:15] King Sorrow by Joe Hill (October 21) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:22] Son of the Morning by Akwaeke Emezi (November 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:25] What We Can Know by Ian McEwan (September 23) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:29] Palaver by Bryan Washington (November 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:32] Replaceable You by Mary Roach (September 16) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:35] Circle of Days by Ken Follett (September 23) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [1:51] People Like Us by Jason Mott (August 5) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:14] The Black Wolf by Louise Penny (October 28) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:33]  All the Way to the River by Elizabeth Gilbert (September 9) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:38]  Queen Esther by John Irving (November 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:46]  Hot Wax by M. L. Rio (September 9) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:02]  Cursed Daughters by Oyinkan Braithwaite (November 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:51]  Among the Burning Flowers by Samantha Shannon (September 16) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:55]  Other Books Mentioned Sandwich by Catherine Newman (2024) [1:18]  The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett (1989) [2:06]  Hell of a Book by Jason Mott (2021) [2:20]  If We Were Villains by M. L. Rio (2017) [3:06]  The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon (2019) [4:04]  Fall 2025 Book Preview [7:26] August Sarah's Picks Dominion by Addie E. Citchens (August 19) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:09] We Loved to Run by Stephanie Reents (August 26) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[14:09] Catherine's Pick Katabasis by R. F. Kuang (August 26) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:19] Other Books Mentioned God Spare the Girls by Kelsey McKinney (2021) [9:49] Search by Michelle Huneven (2022) [9:58]   The Secret Lives of Church Ladies by Deesha Philyaw (2020) [10:08] Olga Dies Dreaming by Xóchitl González (2022) [10:12]   Inferno by Dante (c. 1321) [11:36]   Babel by R. F. Kuang (2022) [13:30]  Yellowface by R. F. Kuang (2023) [13:32] Headshot by Rita Bullwinkel (2024) [14:57]  The Rachel Incident by Caroline O'Donoghue (2023) [14:59]  Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett (2022) [15:53]  The Mothers by Brit Bennett (2016) [15:54]  Good For a Girl by Lauren Fleshman (2023) [16:20]  The Longest Race by Kara Goucher (2023) [16:22]  September Sarah's Picks Buckeye by Patrick Ryan (September 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:17] Hot Desk by Laura Dickerman (September 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [24:31] The Wilderness by Angela Flournoy (September 16) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[29:23] Underspin by E. Y. Zhao (September 23) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [37:14] Catherine's Picks The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny by Kiran Desai (September 23) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [17:08]  Guilty by Definition by Susie Dent (US release: September 30) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:07] Other Books Mentioned Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin (2022) [18:15]  Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano (2023) [20:05]  Slanting Towards the Sea by Lidija Hilje (2025) [20:38]  The Flatshare by Beth O'Leary (2019) [24:46]  Younger by Pamela Redmond Satran (2005) [26:10] (The book upon which the television series is based.) Writers & Lovers by Lily King (2020) [26:12]  The Turner House by Angela Flournoy (2015) [29:49]  Headshot by Rita Bullwinkel (2024) [38:49]  October Catherine's Picks Workhorse by Caroline Palmer (October 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:25] The Wayfinder by Adam Johnson (October 14) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:14] November Sarah's Pick Lightbreakers by Aja Gabel (November 4) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:31] Catherine's Pick Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashino (November 25) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[40:02] Other Books Mentioned The Ensemble by Aja Gabel (2018) [43:57]  December Catherine's Pick The Day I Lost You by Ruth Mancini (US release: December 2) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:19] Other Books Mentioned The Woman on the Ledge by Ruth Mancini (2024) [47:22] 

In Episode 204, Sarah and Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books catch up on the 12 new releases they shared in the Summer 2025 Book Preview, now that they've read them — or at least tried to!  They share their reading stats, chat about what worked — and discuss which books didn't work and why.    This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Announcement One of the many benefits to supporting the podcast through either our Patreon Community or our Substack Community (both for just $7/mo) is that you get access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and I share at least 4 bonus books we are excited about that we did not share in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available and sign up here for Patreon and here for Substack! Highlights After Catherine's 100% success rate this spring, she encountered a near-full reversal of fortune this summer. Sarah's summer reading improved dramatically over her spring selections. Between Sarah and Catherine, there are several DNFs, one 5-star book, one 3-star book, and a scattering of books in the 4-star range. Sarah's summer circle back theme seems to be “Why aren't more people reading these books?!” Meanwhile, someone please hand Catherine MORE in her books and with a heavy side of PLOT. They name the best and worst books picks for summer! Books Read Before the Preview [5:09]  June Sarah's Pick The Compound by Aisling Rawle (June 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:14] Other Books Mentioned Lord of the Flies by William Golding (1954) [7:03]  FantasticLand by Mike Bockoven (2016) [7:06]  July Sarah's Pick Bitter Sweet by Hattie Williams (July 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [8:24] Other Books Mentioned The Rachel Incident by Caroline O'Donoghue (2023) [9:31]  Adelaide by Genevieve Wheeler (2023) [9:34]  Summer 2025 Circle Back [10:59] June Catherine's Picks The Catch by Yrsa Daley-Ward (June 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:08] King of Ashes by S. A. Cosby (June 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:43] I'll Be Right Here by Amy Bloom (June 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:15] Other Books Mentioned Razorblade Tears by S. A. Cosby (2021) [20:06]  All the Sinners Bleed by S. A. Cosby  (2023) [20:08]  July Sarah's Picks Slanting Towards the Sea by Lidija Hilje (July 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[13:54] The Rabbit Club by Christopher J. Yates (July 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[25:07] Her Many Faces by Nicci Cloke (July 15) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:56] August Lane by Regina Black (July 29) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:14] Catherine's Picks The Satisfaction Café by Kathy Wang (July 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:27]  Our Last Resort by Clémence Michallon (July 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[39:50] Other Books Mentioned Black Chalk by Christopher J. Yates (2013) [25:12]  Grist Mill Road by Christopher J. Yates (2018) [25:18] Craigslist Confessional by Helena Dea Bala (2020) [33:52]  Imposter Syndrome by Kathy Wang (2021) [34:39]  Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll (2023) [37:39] The Quiet Tenant by Clémence Michallon (2023) [40:02]  The Art of Scandal by Regina Black (2023) [44:01]  Seven Days in June by Tia Williams (2021) [46:47]  July Catherine's Pick The Frequency of Living Things by Nick Fuller Googins (August 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:10] 

Advent is a carved out season that helps us do two primary things. Firstly, we are invited to once again reflect on the incarnation of Christ. We take time to remember when Jesus was born over 2000 years ago. As John writes, we remember when God became flesh and dwelt among us. And then secondly, this season is about anticipating the fact that this same Jesus who was born, who lived, died and rose again, is coming back. Advent is about looking forward - not just to another Christmas morning but to the moment when Christ returns to make all things new. —All Gifts in August will be DOUBLED! Partner with us today to help more people read, understand, and preach the bible through Darrell's ministry. ⁠⁠⁠Give to the Ministry of Darrell Johnson⁠⁠⁠Want a FREE copy of Darrell's next book, Awaken Wonder? Join The Seed, our giving community for monthly donors. Simply set up a monthly gift here to join. —⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to Darrell's Mailing List⁠⁠⁠Website | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠darrelljohnson.ca⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/darrelljohnson⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode, MichaelAaron and Richard share a first look at their upcoming book Hacking the Human Mind, a guide to applying behavioral science for brand growth. Then, they revisit the Häagen-Dazs case study—exploring how foreign branding and price relativity helped transform everyday ice cream into a luxury experience that set powerful consumer expectations.

Preview of Karin Wulf's book, Lineage: Genealogy and the Power of Connection in Early America. In eighteenth-century America, genealogy was more than a simple record of family ties--it was a powerful force that shaped society. Lineage delves into an era where individuals, families, and institutions meticulously documented their connections. Whether driven by personal passion or mandated by churches, local governments, and courts, these records appeared in diverse forms-from handwritten notes and account books to intricate silk threads and enduring stone carvings. You can support Ben Franklin's World and support independent bookstores by purchasing your book with our Bookshop.org affiliate link: https://bookshop.org/a/113555/9780197553220.

Preview of Karin Wulf's book, Lineage: Genealogy and the Power of Connection in Early America. In eighteenth-century America, genealogy was more than a simple record of family ties--it was a powerful force that shaped society. Lineage delves into an era where individuals, families, and institutions meticulously documented their connections. Whether driven by personal passion or mandated by churches, local governments, and courts, these records appeared in diverse forms-from handwritten notes and account books to intricate silk threads and enduring stone carvings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the Summer 2025 Book Preview with Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books!   Today, Catherine and Sarah share 12 of their most anticipated books releasing from June through mid-August.   This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Announcement One of the many benefits to supporting the podcast through either our Patreon Community or our Substack Community (both for just $7/mo) is that you get access to several bonus podcast episode series, including Book Preview Extras! In these episodes, Catherine and I share at least 4 bonus books we are excited about that we did not share in the big show preview episode. Get more details about all the goodies available and sign up here for Patreon and here for Substack! Highlights Catherine and Sarah share some big releases coming this summer (lightning-round style). Of Catherine's six book picks, 3 are about sisters and most are from repeat authors. Sarah's choices feature 3 debut authors, 2 repeat authors, and 1 new author. And, 5 of Sarah's six books are European novels. From literary picks to thrillers to romances, they've got a range of books for summer. Sarah has already read two of her picks — and they're on the 2025 Summer Reading Guide (be sure to check out the full list) Plus, their #1 picks for summer. Big Summer Releases Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid (June 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:12] With a Vengeance by Riley Sager (June 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:18] Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by V. E. Schwab (June 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:32] The Poppy Fields by Nikki Erlick (June 17) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:36] A Marriage at Sea by Sophie Elmhirst (July 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [2:45] The Bewitching by Silvia Moreno-Garcia (July 15) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [2:57] The View from Lake Como by Adriana Trigiani (July 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:08] Worth Fighting For by Jesse Q. Sutanto (June 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:13] A Most Puzzling Murder by Bianca Marais (June 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:17]  Don't Let Him In by Lisa Jewell (June 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:27]  The Woman in Suite 11 by Ruth Ware (July 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [3:29]  Don't Open Your Eyes by Liv Constantine (June 17) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [3:32]  The Locked Ward by Sarah Pekkanen (August 5) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [3:36]  Summer 2025 Book Preview [4:07] June Sarah's Pick The Compound by Aisling Rawle (June 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [7:19] Catherine's Picks The Catch by Yrsa Daley-Ward (June 3) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [13:40] King of Ashes by S. A. Cosby (June 10) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:02] I'll Be Right Here by Amy Bloom (June 24) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:01] Other Books Mentioned  Lord of the Flies by William Golding (1954) [10:01]  FantasticLand by Mike Bockoven (2016) [10:04]  The Godfather by Mario Puzo (1969) [20:29]  All the Sinners Bleed by S. A. Cosby  (2023) [20:55]  Razorblade Tears by S. A. Cosby (2021) [21:00]  Blacktop Wasteland by S. A. Cosby (2020) [21:01]  White Houses by Amy Bloom (2018) [27:08]  This Is How It Always Is by Laurie Frankel (2017) [27:52]  The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo (2019) [27:57]  The Safekeep by Yael van der Wouden (2024) [28:28]  July Sarah's Picks Slanting Towards the Sea by Lidija Hilje (July 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[15:36] Bitter Sweet by Hattie Williams (July 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [21:44] The Rabbit Club by Christopher J. Yates (July 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[28:48] Her Many Faces by Nicci Cloke (July 15*) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:38](Updated release date following the recording of this episode.) August Lane by Regina Black (July 29) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [41:44] Catherine's Picks The Satisfaction Café by Kathy Wang (July 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:37]  Our Last Resort by Clémence Michallon (July 8) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[39:32] Other Books Mentioned Shark Heart by Emily Habeck (2023) [18:12]  Writers and Lovers by Lily King (2020) [18:17]  The Rachel Incident by Caroline O'Donoghue (2023) [25:06]  Adelaide by Genevieve Wheeler (2023) [25:09]  Black Chalk by Christopher J. Yates (2013) [28:57]  The Interestings by Meg Wolitzer (2013) [31:13]  The Secret History by Donna Tartt (1992) [31:15]  The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (2008) [31:16]  Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll (1865) []  If We Were Villains by M. L. Rio (2017) [32:37]  Imposter Syndrome by Kathy Wang (2021) [35:16]  Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano (2023) [35:40]  Happiness Falls by Angie Kim (2023) [35:42]  The Latecomer by Jean Hanff Korelitz (2022) [35:45]  Girl A by Abigail Dean (2021) [38:21]  The Death of Us by Abigail Dean (2025) [38:24]  Notes on an Execution by Danya Kukafka (2022) [38:28]  The Quiet Tenant by Clémence Michallon (2023) [40:16]  The Art of Scandal by Regina Black (2023) [41:58]  Colton Gentry's Third Act by Jeff Zentner (2024) [43:30]  Seven Days in June by Tia Williams (2021) [43:41]  The Final Revival of Opal & Nev by Dawnie Walton (2021) [43:46]  Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2019) [45:01]  August Catherine's Pick The Frequency of Living Things by Nick Fuller Googins (August 12) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:15] Other Books Mentioned She's Come Undone by Wally Lamb (1992) [48:08]  Other Links Sarah's Bookshelves | The Possibility of a Black Chalk Sequel: Guest Post by Christopher J. Yates 

In Episode 196, Sarah and Catherine of Gilmore Guide to Books catch up on the 12 new releases they shared in the Spring 2025 Book Preview, now that they've read them. They share their reading stats, chat about what worked — and hash out which books didn't work and why.  This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Our Printable Cheatsheet for the 2025 Summer Reading Guide is available to anyone who signs up for either a 7-Day FREE TRIAL of our Patreon Community (sign up here) OR a 30-day FREE TRIAL of our paid Substack Community (sign up here). We offer the same bonus content on both platforms for just $7 per month. Sign-ups for our Free Trials (and access to the Summer Reading Guide Cheatsheet) will close on Friday, May 23. Get the Cheatsheet from Patreon Get the Cheatsheet from Substack Highlights Catherine is rocking a 100% success rate for spring! Sarah had another barbell season with two 5-star books and 3 DNFs with a 50% success rate. Catherine has a mix of darker and lighter books from spring, leaning into what is currently working. Now that Sarah doesn't have to balance reading for the 2025 Summer Reading Guide and the Spring Preview, Sarah hopes her summer reading will fare better. They name the best and worst books picks for spring! Books We Read Before the Preview [3:37] April Sarah's Picks The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett (Apr 29) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [4:04] Spring 2025 Circle Back [5:27] April Sarah's Picks The Family Recipe by Carolyn Huynh (Apr 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [8:38] I See You've Called in Dead by John Kenney (Apr 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[15:40] The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff (Apr 22) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:14] Gold Coast Dilemma by Nana Malone (Apr 29) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:27] Catherine's Picks Cat's People by Tanya Guerrero (Apr 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:32] Heartwood by Amity Gaige (Apr 1) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [12:12] Other Books Mentioned The Fortunes of Jaded Women by Carolyn Huynh (2022) [8:48]  Talk to Me by John Kenney (2019) [15:58]   About a Boy by Nick Hornby (1998) [17:26] I Could Live Here Forever by Hanna Halperin (2023) [24:24]  May Sarah's Picks Aftertaste by Daria Lavelle (May 20) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:57] Catherine's Pick Home of the American Circus by Allison Larkin (May 6) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:16] The Man Made of Smoke by Alex North (May 13) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:35]  Abigail and Alexa Save the Wedding by Lian Dolan (May 20) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:23] Storybook Ending by Moira Macdonald (May 27) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[42:02] Other Books Mentioned The Angel Maker by Alex North (2023) [26:44] Sweetbitter by Stephanie Danler (2016) [41:02]  Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin (2022) [41:08]  Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia (2020) [41:13]  Under the Whispering Door by TJ Klune (2021) [41:19]  The Midnight Library by Matt Haig (2020) [41:23]