Podcasts about connect with us join

Rachel Hochhauser joins us to discuss her debut novel, Lady Tremaine, a reimagining of Cinderella told from the perspective of its most misunderstood figure. This week, we're stepping back into a story we think we know, and turning it inside out. Rachel Hochhauser joins us to talk about her debut novel, Lady Tremaine, a bold and lyrical reimagining of Cinderella told from the perspective of its most misunderstood figure. Together, we explore what it means to reclaim a villain, the power structures embedded in fairy tales, and the quiet, often invisible labor of women navigating survival in a world that offers them very little protection. This conversation is full of trivia, with fascinating tidbits about falcons to reimagining the hinges of one of our favorite fairy tales. In this fascinating conversation, we explore:

Have you ever walked through something so dark that you weren't sure you'd make it to the other side?In Episode 4 of the "What's In Your Hands?" series, we go deep into Psalm 23:4 — one of the most well-known verses in the Bible. But today we're going to see three things in this verse you might have missed. The word "through" that proves the valley has an exit. The word "shadow" that proves light was always present. And the phrase "you are with me" — the only reason David could walk through the darkest place on earth without fear.We'll unpack why God allows valleys, what the rod and staff actually mean when you understand what a shepherd does, and three truths that will change how you walk through every dark season from here on out.If you're in a valley right now — or you've been through one and you're still carrying the weight — this one was written for you.

Aisha Hassan discusses her debut novel, When the Fireflies Dance, a moving family saga set in Lahore and the research inspired by real stories of bonded labor. In this week's episode of Book Gang, I'm excited to share my conversation with debut novelist Aisha Hassan about her first novel, When the Fireflies Dance. This moving family saga is set in Lahore and draws on real-life stories of bonded labor in Pakistan's brick kilns. The narrative follows one family's struggle for survival, dignity, and hope after the loss of their son. During our discussion, we explore Aisha's journey to publication, the intricate construction of her novel, and the important responsibility of addressing social injustices through fiction. In this informative conversation, we explore:

Have you ever been so focused on what you lost that you almost missed what God was building?In Episode 3 of the "What's In Your Hands?" series, we dive into Isaiah 43:18-19 — where God gives a command and a promise in the same breath. Forget the former things. See, I am doing a new thing.But here's what stops most of us — we can't receive the new thing because we're still holding onto the old thing. The job that ended. The relationship that fell apart. The season that closed without our permission. And God is saying — let it go. Not because it didn't matter. But because it's not where you're going.We'll talk about why we get stuck in former things, what it means that God makes a way in the wilderness, and the three things God's "new thing" requires from us — letting go before you can see what's next, trusting the seed stage, and having the courage to walk a road with no footprints on it.If you're standing at the edge of something new and you're afraid to step forward — this one's for you.

Have you ever been in a season where everything inside you is screaming go, go, go — but God is saying… wait?In Episode 2 of the "What's In Your Hands?" series, we dive into Psalm 46:10 — one of the shortest verses in the Bible that carries one of the biggest commands God has ever given us. Be still, and know that I am God.But "be still" doesn't mean what you think it means. The original Hebrew word — raphah — means to let go, to release your grip, to stop striving. It's the image of someone white-knuckling something they were never meant to carry. And God is saying… open your hands.We'll talk about why stillness is so hard in a world that rewards hustle, what it really means to trust God's timing, and the three things stillness requires — releasing the timeline, trusting the process, and daily surrender.If you're waiting on God right now — this one is for you.

Have you ever looked at what you have and thought… this isn't enough?In this episode, we dive into one of the most powerful miracles in the Bible — the Feeding of the 5,000 from John 6:1–14. A boy shows up with five loaves and two fish. The disciples say it's not enough. But Jesus takes it, blesses it, and multiplies it into more than enough — with twelve baskets left over.We'll talk about why God tests us before He blesses us, why your math doesn't limit His miracle, and what it really means to bring what you have and let Him do the rest.Whether you're starting something new, walking through a season of doubt, or just trying to figure out how it's all going to work out — this one's for you.

Debut author Lauren Morrow joins us to discuss Little Movements, a sharp, funny, and deeply perceptive literary novel set in the world of professional dance.Lauren Morrow joins Book Gang to discuss her satirical novel, Little Movements, which follows Layla, a Black choreographer navigating a fragile marriage, a long-delayed hope of motherhood, and a career-defining opportunity at a prestigious arts institution.When Layla relocates alone to create a new piece from the ground up, she finds herself confronting not just the physical demands of dance but the subtler pressures of tokenization, institutional expectations, and who gets to define what her work "means."Drawing from Morrow's background in dance and arts publicity, Little Movements offers an insider's view of how cultural organizations frame progress, how money shapes artistic freedom, and how women—especially Black women—are often asked to carry symbolic weight they never volunteered for.In this fascinating conversation, we explore:

Find hope for the future with this powerful prayer. God is your Hope of Glory, the assurance that the best is yet to come. This life isn't all there is, and that changes everything.You have confident expectation based on God's promises, not wishful thinking. This prayer will help you anchor your soul in unshakeable hope, gain eternal perspective that shapes daily decisions, persevere through suffering knowing glory is coming, and live as a person of hope in a hopeless world. Because Jesus rose from the dead, you have living hope. Death is not the end. The grave is not your final destination.In this prayer, we'll pray for:Hope that anchors the soul in stormy timesEternal perspective on present sufferingRenewed hope for those feeling hopelessUnderstanding that glory far outweighs our troublesStrength to persevere knowing the promise is secureLiving as people of hope in a despairing worldWhether you feel hopeless and can't see beyond your pain, you're suffering and need perspective, you've lost sight of God's promises, or you simply want to worship Him as your Hope—this prayer is for you. Your hope is not based on circumstances—it's based on God's character and His guaranteed promises. The best is yet to come.

Find stability in unstable times with this powerful prayer. God is your Rock and Foundation, unshakeable, unmovable, and completely reliable. When everything else is falling apart, He remains solid.In a world where everything feels uncertain and constantly changing, you need something solid to build your life on. This prayer will help you build your life on God instead of things that fail, find stability when your world feels like it's crumbling, trust the only Foundation that will never shake, and examine what you're truly building your life upon. When storms come, you won't collapse because your foundation is secure.In this prayer, we'll pray for:Wisdom to build on the right foundationStability for those whose world is crumblingUnderstanding of what it means to build on the RockCourage to rebuild on God when we've built on sandTrust in God's unshakeable promisesObedient hearts that don't just hear but do God's WordWhether you feel like your world is falling apart, you've been building on the wrong things, you need something solid and reliable, or you simply want to worship God as your Rock, this prayer is for you. Jesus is the cornerstone, the sure foundation, the solid ground beneath your feet. Build on Him, and you will never be shaken.

Author Nancy Johnson joins us to discuss People of Means, our February Book Club selection for Black History Month, a powerful, moving dual-timeline novel.Nancy Johnson joins Book Gang to discuss her richly layered second novel, which explores race, class, ambition, and resistance in 1960s Nashville and 1992 Chicago, offering readers a perfectly baked reading experience for Black History Month.In this deeply thoughtful conversation, Nancy reflects on writing a novel that spans decades—from the Jim Crow South and the Fisk University protest movement to the corporate corridors of the early 1990s and the aftermath of the Rodney King verdict. We talk about generational inheritance, the pressures of Black excellence, and the quiet, everyday decisions that shape history just as much as headline-making acts of protest.Nancy also shares what it was like to speak at Fisk University, a moment that mirrors the heart of People of Means, and how beginning her fiction career later in life shaped both her confidence and her creative freedom. From navigating second-novel pressure to crafting two distinct voices for Freda and Tulip, this conversation offers insight into both the craft of writing and the moral questions at the center of the book.In this enlightening conversation, we explore:

Find comfort and guidance with this powerful prayer. God has given you the Holy Spirit, your Comforter in sorrow, your Counselor in confusion, your Helper in weakness. You are never alone.When you're heartbroken and others don't know what to say, the Holy Spirit comforts you in ways that transcend understanding. This prayer will help you receive the Holy Spirit's comfort in times of pain, trust His counsel when facing difficult decisions, understand that you're never truly alone, and walk in step with His guidance daily. He doesn't just sympathize with your pain—He enters into it with you.In this prayer, we'll pray for:Deep comfort for those who are grieving and hurtingWisdom and counsel for those facing major decisionsUnderstanding of the Holy Spirit's role in our livesSensitivity to hear and follow His promptingsPower to live the Christian life through His strengthFresh filling of the Holy Spirit dailyWhether you're heartbroken and need comfort, confused and need direction, feeling alone and need His presence, or simply want to understand the Holy Spirit better this prayer is for you. The Holy Spirit is God with you, in you, working through you. You are never without guidance. You are never without comfort.

Discover your purpose with this powerful prayer. God is the Author of Life, every breath you take, every heartbeat, every moment comes from Him. He didn't just create you; He's writing a beautiful story with your life.You are not an accident. Your life has meaning and purpose. This prayer will help you understand that God gives abundant life, not just existence, trust the Author even when you don't understand your current chapter, live with purpose and intention instead of just going through the motions, and find hope in eternal life that never ends. Jesus came that you might have life and have it to the full, not just surviving, but thriving.In this prayer, we'll pray for:Understanding that God authored your life with intentionFreedom from feeling purposeless or just existingTrust in God's authorship of your storyHope for those facing death or life's endWisdom to live each day fully and purposefullyGratitude for physical, spiritual, and eternal lifeWhether you feel like your life has no meaning, you're just going through the motions, you're facing illness or death, or you simply want to thank God for life, this prayer is for you. God is writing something beautiful with your life, even when you can't see it yet. Trust the Author.

The floor just dropped out from under you. One moment you had a job, the next moment everything changed. If you're dealing with sudden job loss, financial crisis, and the fear that comes with it—this message is for you.You're not just losing a paycheck. You're losing your identity, your structure, your sense of control. The panic is real. The shame is crushing. And if you're a believer, you might be wondering where God is in all of this.In this episode, we tackle the raw reality of job loss without the cheap Christian platitudes. This isn't about "just pray harder" or "God works all things for good." This is real talk about surviving the freefall, managing the panic, and finding hope when everything feels hopeless.What You'll Learn:✅ Why your physical and emotional responses to job loss are completely normal✅ How to give yourself permission to NOT be okay right now✅ What the Bible really says about doubt, fear, and honest prayers✅ 5 practical action steps to get through the first days and weeks✅ How to create structure when your world feels chaotic✅ Why your worth isn't tied to your employment statusThis Episode Covers:The multiple losses you're experiencing (identity, structure, community, control)Biblical examples of honest faith (David, Job, and real prayers)Crisis routine strategies to stabilize your nervous systemThe "Five Things" grounding exercise for panic attacksHow to have honest conversations when you're scaredPraying honest prayers that God can actually handleWhether you were laid off yesterday or months ago, whether you're terrified about bills or just numb, this series will walk with you through one of life's hardest seasons with biblical truth, practical wisdom, and authentic hope.EPISODE ACTION STEPS:Create your crisis routine - set an alarm, get dressed, move your bodyPractice the Five Things grounding exercise when panic hitsStart your Evidence Journal - write one piece of evidence daily that you'll be okayIdentify one person for an honest conversation this weekPray one honest prayer to God - no pretending, just raw truth

Find hope in the darkness with this powerful prayer. Jesus is the Light of the World, darkness cannot overcome His light. No matter how deep the darkness feels, His light is stronger.In times of confusion, despair, and spiritual darkness, God shines brightly. This prayer will help you step out of darkness into God's marvelous light, understand that you carry His light within you, let God's Word illuminate your path, and become a light-bearer in a dark world. One small flame can pierce the deepest darkness, and Jesus is not a small flame, He is the blazing sun of righteousness.In this prayer, we'll pray for:Light to shine in every dark area of our livesDeliverance for those trapped in spiritual darknessCourage to walk in the light instead of hidingUnderstanding that we are light bearers in the worldHope for those feeling lost and hopelessClarity and truth in a world of confusionWhether you're walking through a dark season, struggling with sin or shame you've kept hidden, feeling hopeless and can't see a way forward, or simply need God's light to guide you, this prayer is for you. God's light doesn't just expose darkness, it dispels it. He doesn't just reveal your problems, He provides solutions. His light is always redemptive.

Find direction and purpose with this powerful prayer. Jesus is the Good Shepherd, the One who knows you by name, leads you to green pastures, and guides you along the right paths.In a world full of voices pulling you in different directions, God has a specific path for you. This prayer will help you hear God's voice above the noise of the world, trust His guidance even when the path isn't clear, find comfort in His presence during dark and difficult seasons, and surrender your life to His leading. He doesn't lead from behind, He walks ahead of you. He knows every step of the journey before you take it.In this prayer, we'll pray for:Sensitivity to hear God's voice and guidanceTrust in His leading through every seasonComfort during dark and difficult valleysDirection for those feeling lost and directionlessCourage to follow where God leadsUnderstanding that His guidance is always for our goodWhether you're facing a major life decision, feeling lost and directionless, struggling to hear God's voice, or simply need reassurance that He's leading you—this prayer is for you. The Good Shepherd knows you by name. He has a specific and beautiful plan for your life. Trust Him to lead you.

Journalist Christine Kuehn joins us to discuss Family of Spies and her gripping emotional reckoning with her family's shocking personal ties to Nazi espionage.The book begins in 1994, when a single letter from a historian pierces Kuehn's quiet suburban life, revealing a secret she never suspected. Kuehn discovered that members of her own family were Nazi intelligence agents. What follows is a thirty-year investigation that pulls from FBI files, government and family archives, photographs, correspondence, and interviews.In today's Book Gang conversation, Kuehn reflects on reporting on her own lineage, the ethical and emotional stakes of uncovering a truth that implicates the people who raised her, and how she structured the book across dual timelines to hold both the global history and her personal reckoning.This episode airs the week of National Holocaust Remembrance Day. This moment calls us to remember not only the victims of Nazi violence, but also the systems, enablers, and silences that allowed it to spread. Christine now uses her research to support Jewish organizations, which you will hear about in today's conversation as we unbox the past together.In this emotional conversation, we explore:

Bow before the Sovereign Ruler of all with this powerful prayer. God is the King of kings and Lord of lords—He rules over all creation with perfect wisdom, perfect justice, and perfect love.His kingship is different from earthly rulers. He doesn't rule with tyranny but with love. He doesn't lead with selfish ambition but with servant leadership. This prayer will help you surrender to God's loving rule over your life, trust His sovereign plan when you don't understand, live as a citizen of His kingdom, and worship Him as the worthy King. You're not just a subject—you're a child of the King with all the rights and privileges that come with that position.In this prayer, we'll pray for:Recognition of God's sovereign rule over all creationTrust in His perfect wisdom and justiceGratitude for being citizens of His kingdomWillingness to surrender every area of life to His kingshipUnderstanding of our identity as children of the KingCommitment to live as kingdom ambassadorsWhether you're struggling to surrender control, need to trust God's sovereignty in difficult circumstances, want to understand your kingdom identity, or simply need to worship the King—this prayer is for you. He is worthy of all honor, glory, and praise. All hail King Jesus!

Celebrate the gift of redemption with this powerful prayer. God didn't leave you in your sin or abandon you to your brokenness. He sent Jesus to rescue you, redeem you, and restore you completely.You are no longer defined by your past. You are no longer a slave to sin. You've been bought with a price, redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. This prayer will help you understand the price Jesus paid for your redemption, embrace your new identity as a child of God, live in the freedom salvation provides, and share the good news with others who need rescue. When Jesus said "It is finished," He meant it. Your redemption is complete.In this prayer, we'll pray for:Gratitude for the price Jesus paid to redeem usFreedom from our past and our old identityFresh revelation of what it means to be savedBoldness to share the gospel with the lostUnderstanding that redemption is complete and sufficientJoy in living as redeemed children of GodWhether you need to remember what Jesus saved you from, struggle to accept your new identity in Christ, want to live in greater freedom, or simply need to worship Him for salvation, this prayer is for you. You were bought with a price. You belong to Him. And that changes everything.

Find safety in God's protection with this powerful prayer. In a world that feels increasingly dangerous and uncertain, He is your safe place, your shelter, your fortress that cannot be shaken.God doesn't just protect you physically—He guards your heart, mind, and spirit too. This prayer will help you trust God as your Refuge in every situation, find courage to face uncertain and threatening times, pray for protection over yourself and your family, and rest in the security of His presence. When you dwell in the shelter of the Most High, you rest in the shadow of the Almighty.In this prayer, we'll pray for:Protection over our lives, families, and homesSafety in travel and daily activitiesEmotional and mental refuge from stress and anxietyDeliverance for those in dangerous situationsCourage to face threats with God's strengthUnderstanding that true security is found in Him aloneWhether you're facing danger or threats, feeling anxious about uncertain times, need protection for your family, or simply want to rest in God's security—this prayer is for you. God is your strong tower, your hiding place, your shelter in every storm. When you run to Him, you are safe.

Provider of Every Need

Healer and Restorer

Creator of All

Author Lior Torenberg unpacks her debut Just Watch Me, a darkly funny livestream novel that exposes the cost of performing pain online, and our hunger to watch.Debut author Lior Torenberg joins us to talk about Just Watch Me, a bold, internet-shaped novel that unfolds over seven days of nonstop livestreaming. Together, we dig into what it means to write fiction rooted in our current digital moment, and why stories about performance feel so urgent right now.We talk about Torenberg's path from initial concept to publication, the realities of debuting with a formally inventive novel, and the creative risks of building a narrative around livestream chats, audience participation, and escalating dares. She also walks us through the choice to compress the story into a single week, and how that story structure intensifies both tension and intimacy.In this fun conversation, we explore:

Prince of Peace

Mighty and Powerful

Love That Never Fails

Holy and Set Apart

Faithful Through Generations ⏳✨ | Walk With Him in WorshipCelebrate God's unwavering faithfulness with this powerful prayer. The same God who was faithful to generations before us is faithful to us today—and He will never change.In a world where everything feels uncertain and constantly shifting, God remains our constant. This prayer will help you remember His track record of faithfulness in your life, trust Him with your present circumstances, and believe Him for your future. When you don't know what tomorrow holds, you can rest in knowing who holds tomorrow.In this prayer, we'll pray for:Remembrance of God's past faithfulness in our livesTrust in His unchanging characterConfidence that His promises never failStrength to believe even in seasons of waitingGratitude for His generational faithfulnessHope that what He's started, He will finishWhether you're waiting for a breakthrough, questioning if God has forgotten you, or simply need a reminder that He keeps His promises—this prayer is for you. God's faithfulness doesn't depend on your performance; it's rooted in His unchanging character. He was faithful yesterday, He's faithful today, and He'll be faithful tomorrow.

New Mercies Every Morning

Author Elizabeth DeLozier joins us to discuss Eleanore of Avignon, our January Book Club pick, and her bold debut, shaped by plague, medicine, and female power.In this free conversation, Elizabeth DeLozier takes us behind the scenes of Eleanore of Avignon—a richly researched historical novel set during the Black Death, written during the modern pandemic that reshaped how many of us think about illness, fear, and survival.Elizabeth shares how long it took to bring this ambitious debut from first idea to finished book, what it was like to pitch such a high-stakes story as a first novel, and how her background in medicine deeply informed the way she wrote Eleanore's work as a healer and midwife. We also talk about writing outside of traditional MFA pathways, balancing historical plausibility with emotionally resonant characters, and what surprised her most while researching 14th-century Avignon.Gratitude to Our Show Patrons: This week's episode is open to all listeners thanks to generous donations made through Buy Me a Coffee and your community memberships. If you'd like to keep the conversation going, you're invited to join our Patreon Book Club chat on January 29 at 8 PM ET, where we'll dive deeper into spoilers, themes, and reader reactions. Membership is $5 a month, or you can prepay for the year and save 10%. In this fascinating conversation, we explore:

Head to the Arctic with Nathaniel Ian Miller and discover the true story that inspired his debut, The Memoirs of Stockholm Sven, for our final episode of 2025.For our final episode of 2025, we're bringing forward a beloved conversation from the Book Gang archives with debut novelist Nathaniel Ian Miller, discussing his magical winter read, The Memoirs of Stockholm Sven, and the enduring pull of a great winter story with found-family themes. This episode originally aired for patrons in 2023, and it felt like the perfect moment to share it more widely, along with some gentle reflections from this year, including YOUR best book club book of the year.In this funny conversation, we discuss:

Get ahead of 2026's biggest releases this year. We highlight ten must-read backlist books from authors with upcoming titles, so you have your best library day.What could be better than a discussion on 2026's biggest releases? We wanted to do something fun (and genuinely helpful) to help you plan next year's TBR. Today, Jessica Bearak is back, and she's bringing her idea to pair readers with books we don't want slipping through the cracks. We've gathered ten brilliant backlist titles from authors with major books arriving next year, so you can reserve your library holds, fill your Kindle, and feel delightfully ahead of the curve before celebrating their next book. Think of it as your literary pre-game for the year ahead.In this fun conversation, we discuss:

Join the 2026 MomAdvice Book Club to explore 12 handpicked novels, enjoy lively author chats, and celebrate a year of stories that inspire and delight.Get ready to kick off another unforgettable reading year with the 2026 MomAdvice Book Club. In this episode, I'm unveiling my twelve handpicked selections—an extraordinary lineup of novels that challenge perspective and remind us what it means to live bravely and wholeheartedly.I read widely and intentionally all year so that every MomAdvice pick feels worthy of your time, your library holds, your gift lists, and your precious reading hours. Announcing the selections early means you can gather copies however is easiest for you. Shop the library, used shops, holiday gifting, or straight from your favorite indie bookshop this year.To discover this year's selections, you can head to today's post, which includes all the details, including the recommended format, the reading mood of the novel, and pacing information. Each description also offers the accompanying reader experience for each book.I've also uploaded a podcast that goes through each of these books for those of you who prefer an audio experience with some behind-the-scenes details. Please join me on this reading adventure!This year, your participation in the book club directly supports the podcast and sustains a space where readers can connect deeply over stories that genuinely matter. Thank you for choosing this space to invest in. I never take it for granted!Connect With Us:Join the 2026 Book ClubMake a One-Time Donation to My Show (SO, SO GRATEFUL THIS YEAR!!)Connect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdviceGet My Happy List NewsletterGet the Daily Kindle Deals Newsletter

Marisa Kashino turns being new to publishing into a superpower, revealing her surprising journey from first draft to the darkly funny thriller, Best Offer Wins.Being brand-new to publishing turned out to be this author's secret weapon in landing her book deal. This week on Book Gang, we're stepping into the ruthless, dream-chasing world of real estate with Marisa Kashino, journalist and author of Best Offer Wins. She shares how the freedom from expectations fueled her thriller's creativity and story structure, how her query journey unfolded with unexpected serendipity, and why stepping into fiction opened doors she never imagined… including an adaptation already in the works.In this heartwarming and hilarious conversation, we discuss:

Discover the writing hack that Emma Pattee uncovered with a creativity coach, which helped her debut novel, Tilt, transition from her Google Drive to publication.Emma Pattee, climate journalist and fiction writer, joins the Book Gang podcast to discuss her heartpounding debut novel, Tilt. In Tilt, we follow a pregnant woman through a single, intense day as an earthquake hits Portland, where Pattee blends the chaos of the city with the intimate messiness of her marriage and motherhood journey.In our virtual walk with Emma through Portland, we explore:

Discover Pagebound, the social reading app by Lucy Zhao & Jennifer Dobak. Learn how to gamify your reading life from quests to forums in today's beginner chat.Ever wish Goodreads had a heart or deeply desired a buddy read for every book in your book stack? It exists. This week, we're stepping inside Pagebound, the new social reading app built by readers for readers, with co-founders Lucy Zhao and Jennifer Dobak.This week's "building block" podcast episode is designed to deepen your reading life and provide a behind-the-scenes look at tools you can use to enhance it. Discover how these two women built a no-AI, reader-first platform that's reimagining how we connect through stories online.In this enlightening conversation, we discuss:

Take a crash course in Gothic fiction with Junie author Erin Crosby Eckstine as we trace the genre's origins, evolution, and enduring allure.Erin returns to Book Gang to share what surprised her most about debut life and what she's learned about balancing writing, book promotion, and an ever-growing TikTok community. Then, we dive deep into the eerie, elegant world of Gothic literature — where decaying mansions, stormy moors, and family secrets reflect the darkness within.If you've ever wondered what makes a book Gothic, how the genre evolved from the 18th century to the present day, or how writers can utilize Gothic techniques to explore contemporary fears, this episode is your guided tour through the creeping shadows, courtesy of a former English teacher.In this illuminating conversation, we discuss:

What if success didn’t require sacrificing your relationships, health, or happiness along the way?

Go behind the scenes with Bindery Books to discover their innovative publishing process, where tastemakers reshape how diverse books are made and sold.In this week's episode, we sit down with Matt Kaye, cofounder and CEO of Bindery Books, to explore how his multifaceted career—from traditional publishing to Amazon to Patreon—shaped a bold new model for the book world.Matt shares how the company identifies and empowers their carefully selected Tastemakers who curate, acquire, and co-develop books, offering listeners a rare, inside look at how these partnerships work from manuscript to marketing. Discover how the company tackles its small business challenges and the heartwarming pride that infuses many of its published works, including a project that's even captured the attention of celebrities.In this enlightening conversation, we discuss:

Debut novelist Olivia Muenter joins Book Gang to discuss her hit debut, Such a Bad Influence, and the dark side of online fame in her real and imagined worlds.What happens when your child becomes famous? In Such a Bad Influence, Olivia Muenter pulls back the curtain on the innocent early days of a fictional family's online moment that went viral, to later reveal the insidious nature of the influencer era when fame and fortune find them.A self-described "recovering influencer," Olivia shares how her debut became a sharp, emotional page-turner and the ways her work as an influencer tied into her more complicated truths in this mixed media thriller.In this revealing conversation, we discuss:

Author Meagan Church unpacks the hidden lives of women in her chilling novel, The Mad Wife, as we explore the history of hysteria in women's health diagnoses.If you loved Meagan Church's historical fiction, you'll be captivated by the bold turn she takes in The Mad Wife, her third novel. Rooted in the untold medical stories of women's lives, this book lulls readers into the familiar rhythms of mid-century domesticity, before flipping the script with a shocking plot twist.In our revealing conversation, we explore:Building a Vivid 1950s World – From S&H stamps to molded salads, how Meagan nailed the texture of the era, weaving ordinary domestic details into a setting that feels both authentic and unsettling.From History to Suspense – Why Meagan pivoted from a traditional historical fiction lens in her earlier novels to the creeping tension of domestic suspense, and how she made the genre shift feel authentic to her writing process. We discuss the bravery required for this project and how she felt haunted, both in real life and on the page, as she told Lulu's story.The Medical History of “Hysteria” – What her chilling research revealed about diagnoses like hysteria, prescriptions like Miltown, and procedures like lobotomy and ECT that shaped women's lives in disturbing ways.

Curious about indie publishing? Physician Paria Hassouri shares her debut journey to self-publish Harvesting Rosewater, centering a woman's midlife awakening.If you've ever been interested in the independent publishing process, you're not alone. Today's revealing conversation with Paria Hassouri, a pediatrician, whose self-published debut, Harvesting Rosewater, recently hit bookstores, takes readers inside her remarkable publishing process. Discover how Paria balances medicine and storytelling in today's under-the-radar debut feature, which centers on a physician's midlife awakening that I guarantee you will not be able to put down.In our illuminating conversation, we explore:Independent Publishing Adventures- Paria opens up about her unique indie publishing path, sharing how she navigated editing, securing book blurbs, and the creative freedom that comes with going her own way—plus the surprises that made the process both challenging and rewarding.Uncovering Autofiction Elements From Paria's Life- Drawing on her own childhood in Iran during the Islamic Revolution, Paria shares personal memories and reflections from this challenging period in her young life in her story. She shares how blending real-life experiences with fiction has allowed her to explore her own identity, belonging, and what she hopes readers will take away from her book.The Women's Life Freedom Movement- We explore how themes of women's rights and resistance shaped this story, offering readers deeper insight into lives under restrictive systems and the tragedy that sparked the movement.

In Anyone's Ghost, August Thompson captures the ache of growing up while growing as a writer after his hard-won pursuit of the MFA program at NYU.How do you write a coming-of-age story that's both deeply vulnerable and slyly funny, all while resisting clichés about queerness and masculinity? August Thompson joins me to talk about his debut novel, Anyone's Ghost, a Lambda finalist and one of my favorite under-the-radar gems.From his MFA experience at NYU to navigating long COVID while finishing the book, Thompson reflects on the highs and lows of becoming a first-time author and the vulnerable process of rejection. He also shares how humor, bisexuality, and memory shape his storytelling, which major literary prizes have now recognized with adoration.In our funny conversation, August and I discussed:How Art Helped Form the Bones of August's Story – August shares the books, films, and music that inspired his book, which even brought in the lead singer from The National for a book signing moment of his dreams at The Strand.Mining Adolescence for Humor– The role of humor was as imperative as Thompson's love story, and why he wanted to balance this story with this unexpected levity amidst the yearning.The Fresh Perspective on Sexuality For Readers – Thompson discusses his approach to writing about bisexuality and the narratives regarding male bisexuality that he still wishes to see in publishing, while celebrating being longlisted for a Lambda Literary Award.

In The Sideways Life of Denny Voss, Holly Kennedy brings humor & heart to a neurodivergent hero, sharing how Lake Union Publishing shaped her journey.What happens when good intentions collide with messy realities? In The Sideways Life of Denny Voss, Holly Kennedy introduces us to Denny, an unforgettable, neurodivergent character whose big heart and distinct voice make him a narrator you'll want to follow anywhere… even into a goose-napping, an accidental bank robbery, and now a murder trial.In this conversation, Holly and I talk about the long road it took to trust her voice enough to bring Denny's story into the world, the challenges of writing authentically from a neurodivergent perspective, and the unique publishing journey she's experienced with Lake Union.And yes, we dig into how timely themes like gun violence filter through Denny's television obsessions and what it means to write a novel that feels both tender and topical today.In our warm conversation, Holly and I discussed:

In her dazzling debut novel Aftertaste, Daria Lavelle takes us on a sensory journey where food, grief, & romance intertwine in this inventive ghost story. What if you could taste the ghosts of the people you've lost? In this intimate conversation, Daria shares how her Ukrainian heritage, her childhood food memories, and her love of genre-bending storytelling all shaped one of the most unique novels of the year.You'll love the reveals of how this story took on surprising symbolism, the genre challenges of marketing such a unique book, and the reader stories that have stayed with her long after her tour ended.

TikTok creator and pop-cultural sleuth Josh Lora (TellTheBeees) helps us build the ultimate Airport Novels book list to carry you through your next flight.What makes a perfect book to snag in the airport bookstore? In this fun episode, TikTok creator and pop-cultural sleuth Josh Lora (TellTheBeees) helps us create the perfect book list to get you through delayed flights, endless terminals, and jet-lagged landings with an unputdownable book.This conversation marks the final installment in the All-Star Book Influencer Series, which has brought together incredible voices in the literary community. I hope you have enjoyed these conversations with our guests, including podcasters, bookstagrammers, and BookTubers, who brought fresh passion and unique perspectives to the page.As a TikTok creator turned sociological book commentator, Josh offers fresh takes on what we read, and why we pick certain books up in unexpected places—like airport bookstores!In our fun conversation, we discuss:Inside the TellTheBeees TikTok Account: Josh shares how TellTheBeees came to life, what it means to cover pop culture through a sociological lens, and how he spots trends quickly enough to keep TikTok buzzing.Defining the Airport Novel: Together, we unpack what makes a book "airport friendly," whether that's a punchy plot, instant engagement, or that oh-so-rare "I-can't-put-this-down" quality.The Changing Reputation of Airport Picks:  Gone are the days of dull formula fiction. Josh argues that the airport rack is now a place for surprising, thoughtful, and truly compelling reads. Snag his list of best recommendations for your next flight from today's bestsellers! Meet Josh LoraJosh Lora, known online as TellTheBees, is a TikTok creator and cultural critic who explores the intersection of books, sociology, and media. His videos dissect everything from reality TV trends to bookish themes through a thoughtful, sociological lens. He's built a vibrant audience by pairing sharp cultural observations with book recommendations that feel both fun and deeply insightful.Mentioned in this episode:Download Today's Show TranscriptJoin the August Book Club Chat TONIGHT (The Wedding People)RESERVE OUR FALL GUEST'S BOOKS NOWThe Celebrity Book Club Deep Dive Episode You NeedFleishman Is in Trouble by Taffy Brodesser-AknerFleishman Is in TroubleThe Age of AdelineCult Classic by Sloane CrosleyWoman of the Hour by Claire PoldersGone Girl by Gillian FlynnThe Midnight Feast by Lucy FoleyTriangle of SadnessThe Housemaid by Freida McFaddenThe Maid by Nita ProseThursday Murder Club by Richard OsmanDial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. SutantoPayback's a Witch by Lana HarperThe Group by Mary McCarthySaints For All Occasions by J. Courtney SullivanLiars by Sarah MangusoThe Wedding People by Alison EspachSelf Care by Leigh SteinSeverance by Ling MaBlue Sisters by Coco MellorsHello Beautiful by Ann NapolitanoCleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco MellorsThe Husbands by Holly Gramazio Books About Alternative Realities or Parallel Lives You Will LoveMargo's Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe Like Mother, Like Daughter by Kimberly McCreightReconstructing Amelia by Kimberly McCreightThe God of the Woods by Liz MooreThe Unseen World by Liz MooreHeft by Liz MooreLong Bright River by Liz MooreHappiness Falls by Angie KimReal Americans by Rachel Khong Goodbye, Vitamin by Rachel KhongHow to End a Love Story by Yulin KuangI Hope This Finds You Well by Natalie SueThe Ministry of Time by Kaliane BradleyBookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores!Connect With Us:Join the Book Gang PatreonConnect with Josh Lora on Substack, TikTok, or InstagramConnect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdviceGet My Happy List NewsletterGet the Daily Kindle Deals Newsletter

Join Cindy from Thoughts from a Page as we explore unforgettable books featuring older characters. These are her top five picks that deserve space on your TBR.The All‑Star Book Influencer Series is back, and I can't wait to introduceyou to more incredible voices in the literary community. Our guests include podcasters, bookstagrammers, and BookTubers who bring fresh passion and unique perspectives to the page.Cindy has a pulse on what's next in the publishing world and brings her seasoned perspective on how literature is embracing life beyond midlife. As one of those trusted guides, she offers not only spot-on recommendations but also the tools to discover books you might otherwise miss.In this cozy conversation, Cindy and I discuss:How to Discover What's Next in Books – Cindy shares her strategies for staying ahead of the curve, spotting trends, and helping readers discover gems beyond the bestseller lists.Why Older Characters Matter – We talk about the joys of reading characters in later stages of life, how these stories expand our empathy, and what publishing is (and isn't) getting right in portraying aging.Cindy's Top Five Picks with Older Characters – From cozy mysteries to poignant literary fiction, Cindy highlights unforgettable stories that prove life experience makes for some of the most compelling characters on the page.

There is nothing more transformative than midlife stories, and Renee from It's Book Talk & More joins me to explore the books that reshape how we see this stage.The All‑Star Book Influencer Series is back, and I can't wait to introduce you to more incredible voices in the literary community. Our guests include podcasters, bookstagrammers, and BookTubers who bring fresh passion and unique perspectives to the page.Renee has been a trusted voice in the bookish space for years, first co-hosting Book Talk Etc. and now curating her popular Substack newsletter, It's Book Talk & More.Today, she shares what inspired her move to this new platform, how her reading life has evolved, and why midlife books are resonating with her and her audience more than ever.In this rich and relatable conversation, Renee and I discuss:Inside It's Book Talk & More – Renee shares the origin story of her Substack and the creative freedom she's found since transitioning from podcasting. Learn how her approach to reading and reviewing has shifted in this new format.Why Midlife Stories Matter – We talk about the transformative nature of midlife for women, the stereotypes that need dismantling, and the novels that reflect the realities of reinvention and joy from this season.Renee's Favorite Midlife Reads – Discover the five midlife books that have offered her guidance, inspiration, and a fresh perspective on this stage of life.

Dive into a stack of mind‑bending thrillers with Kate from Bookwild. Discover her top 5 speculative fiction picks in today's All-Star Book Influencer series.The All‑Star Book Influencer Series is back, and I can't wait to introduce you to more incredible voices in the literary community. Our guests include podcasters, bookstagrammers, and BookTubers who bring fresh passion and unique perspectives to the page.Today, we are discussing mind-bending thrillers and who better to guide us than Kate from Bookwild, a podcast dedicated entirely to the art of the twist? In this week's conversation, we explore what makes a thriller truly mind-bending, the tropes that never get old, and the books that broke our brains in the best way.In this thrilling conversation, Kate and I discuss:Inside the Bookwild Podcast – Kate shares the origin story of her show and how it became a space to celebrate everything from domestic suspense to speculative thrillers. Learn how she curates episodes that keep listeners hooked week after week.Tropes, Trends & Upcoming Obsessions – From the thriller tropes that never fail her to the themes she's hoping will take over the suspense landscape, Kate gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what keeps her reading.5 Mind-Bending Thrillers Kate Can't Stop Thinking About – Discover Kate's top picks that push the boundaries of the genre with jaw-dropping twists and speculative elements. She shares why these reads stand out in a sea of thrillers and why they deserve a spot on your TBR.

Journalist Honor Jones discusses her debut novel, Sleep, which explores the #MeToo movement from childhood to the newsroom through a unique fictional lens.Honor Jones's debut novel, Sleep, opens in the heat of a seemingly idyllic summer childhood, where ten-year-old Margaret navigates unspoken secrets within her home. But as the years unfold, the story quietly traces how early moments of confusion ripple forward into Margaret's adult life, particularly as she covers the Weinstein trial as a journalist. With a clear-eyed and unsettling voice, Sleep becomes a meditation on what women bury, what they minimize, and what begins to surface when the cultural tide shifts.In this intriguing conversation, Honor and I discuss:How journalism shaped her approach to fiction: Honor reflects on the transition from shaping others' stories to crafting her own and how editing longform narratives influenced her writing style.Writing a woman who can believe others but not herself: Margaret is a woman who has built a career amplifying the voices of survivors, yet has never fully named her own story. Honor explores how Margaret reconciles the gap between public belief and private suppression, and how the novel plays with what we notice versus what we choose not to see.Portraying the unspoken conversations around #MeToo: From the charged stillness of newsroom dynamics to a dinner party scene, Honor unpacks how people speak around harm instead of through it. We explore her decision to include moments of discomfort and how those honest tensions reflect the real ways people deal with trauma.