Advertise on podcast: Read The Damn Book

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with television host, film historian, and author Alicia Malone to discuss her cozy mystery novel, Murder at the Movies. Alicia shares her passion for classic films, her journey from television host to novelist, and the inspiration behind her transition into fiction writing. The conversation explores the intersection of film history and storytelling, the charm of small-town life, and the creative process of crafting a cozy mystery. Whether you're a fan of classic cinema, mystery novels, or behind-the-scenes insights into the writing process, this episode offers a closer look at Alicia Malone's literary debut and the stories that inspire her. What We're Talking About... Alicia Malone’s transition from television host to novelist and authorThe influence of classic movies and Hollywood on Alicia Malone’s writingThe inspiration and creative process behind Murder at the MoviesWriting a cozy mystery set around a small-town movie theaterThe role of independent and small-town theaters in building communityResearching film history for fiction and storytellingHitchcock’s influence and the legacy of classic Hollywood starsThe importance of preserving film history and classic cinemaBalancing a creative career, personal life, and writing ambitions Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Alicia Malone and her new book 02:05 Alicia Malone's background and love for classic films 05:26 Inspiration behind writing Murder at the Movies 11:08 Setting up for the second book and future plans 16:20 The magic of watching classic films today 20:21 Research process for film scripts at TCM 26:22 The importance of small-town theaters and community 30:37 Personal influences and family relationships in the book 31:38 Closing thoughts and where to find Alicia Malone Links Mentioned Alicia Malone’s website: http://aliciamalone.com

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, Kelly McWilliams discusses her powerful historical novel American Nightmare, a compelling story that explores the history of lynching, racial injustice, and civil rights activism in America. Inspired by real historical events and figures, including civil rights activist Walter White, the book examines the impact of racial violence and the ongoing struggle for justice and equality. Kelly shares the inspiration behind the novel and discusses why confronting difficult chapters of American history is essential to understanding the present, fostering meaningful change, and empowering future generations. What We're Talking About... Walter White’s undercover work investigating and fighting lynching and racial violenceThe historical and modern connections between racial injustice and systemic racismThe NAACP’s role in civil rights activism, anti-lynching efforts, and organizing strategiesThe importance of confronting difficult and uncomfortable truths in American historyKelly McWilliams’ approach to blending historical fiction with horror and supernatural elementsThe importance of representation and stories of wealth, power, and resilience in Black communitiesThe historical and ongoing influence of hate groups, including the Ku Klux Klan and Proud BoysThe courage, resilience, and activism of civil rights leaders like Walter WhiteThe role of education and historical awareness in social justice and civil rights movementsKelly McWilliams’ personal journey, inspiration, and creative process behind American Nightmare Chapters 00:00 — Meet Kelly McWilliams and American Nightmare 01:05 — The Real-Life Walter White 04:43 — Investigating Lynching at Great Personal Risk 07:49 — Why We Must Get Uncomfortable 12:37 — The NAACP’s Strategy of Resistance 23:13 — Writing a Hero Who Fights from Within 29:01 — Gloria Bell, Bishop, and the Humanity Behind the History Links Mentioned Order your copy of American Nightmare: https://calendly.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.penguinrandomhouse.com%2Fbooks%2F795671%2Famerican-nightmare-by-kelly-mcwilliams%2F&user_uuid=da80a4a6-14ef-4180-9551-8081e29a9c36&stage=1&hmac=77b1a4515f507b3472da74d2f4166e6f78994865d1ed424292c89028d7e1a9a5

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, Michelle Glogovac sits down with Anna Holmes, author of The Power of No, to explore the importance of saying no, setting boundaries, and reclaiming your time and energy. Anna shares the inspiration and personal journey behind her book, along with insights into how gender socialization can make it difficult for women to say no and prioritize their own needs. They discuss women’s empowerment, personal boundaries, self-advocacy, and practical ways to become more comfortable with saying no at any age. Whether you're learning to set healthier boundaries or looking to feel more confident advocating for yourself, this conversation offers thoughtful advice on the power of saying no. What We're Talking About... The power of saying no as a form of boundary-setting and self-empowermentHow women are socialized from childhood to say yes and prioritize othersThe evolution of The Power of No from an academic concept to accessible storytellingHow intuition can guide decision-making and help with setting healthy boundariesThe impact of media representation on women’s self-perception and confidenceHow age and life experience can make it easier to embrace the power of noThe connection between power, gender, and women’s ability to say noAnna Holmes’ personal stories and insights from her career and life experiencesHow childhood experiences can influence adult relationships, boundaries, and people-pleasingPractical advice for parents and women on building confidence, setting boundaries, and empowering others Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest Anna Holmes 02:00 Anna Holmes' background and career journey 04:01 The significance of saying no and its celebration 06:01 Childhood socialization and the early lessons of no 08:01 The role of media and representation in women's boundaries 09:59 Personal stories and experiences with boundary-setting 11:46 The evolution of the book and its core message 14:00 The importance of intuition and self-trust in saying no 16:00 The impact of age, experience, and confidence in boundary-setting 17:54 Practical advice for parents and women to empower themselves 19:56 The influence of media, culture, and societal expectations 21:56 Future ideas: children's edition and early boundary education 24:03 Closing thoughts and encouragement to embrace the power of no Links Mentioned Anna Holmes's website: http://www.annaholmes.com Anna Holmes's Instagram: https://instagram.com/annaholmes Order your copy of The Power of No: https://bookshop.org/a/99223/9780593444573

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac interviews Emily Galvin Almanza, a former public defender and author of the children’s mystery novel Andromeda Diaz and the Reasonable Doubt. Emily shares her journey from practicing law as a public defender to becoming a published author and discusses how her legal career inspired her writing. The conversation explores justice, legal rights, the criminal justice system, and the importance of teaching children about the law. Emily explains how Andromeda Diaz and the Reasonable Doubt empowers young readers to understand their rights, ask questions, and think critically about the legal system while enjoying an engaging mystery story. This episode offers a fascinating look at children’s literature, legal education, social justice, and the power of storytelling to educate and empower young readers. What We're Talking About... Emily Galvin Almanza’s journey from public defender to children’s book authorThe inspiration behind Andromeda Diaz and the Reasonable DoubtTeaching children about legal rights, justice, and the legal systemRepresentation of Bolivian culture and identity in children’s literatureThe role of public defenders in community empowerment and social justiceAddressing systemic issues within the juvenile justice systemThe importance and impact of early legal education for childrenRaising awareness about juvenile detention and youth justiceWhat’s next for the Andromeda Diaz book series Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Emily Galvin Almanza and her work 01:20 Emily's background as a public defender 03:10 Synopsis of Andromeda Diaz and the Reasonable Doubt 05:11 Legal issues faced by children and systemic challenges 08:21 Teaching children their legal rights and powers 14:43 Real-life cases and holistic defense approach 18:51 Origin of the character Andromeda and cultural influences 28:03 Next book in the series and raising the stakes 30:45 Representation of juvenile detention and systemic change 31:13 Where to find Emily and her books Links Mentioned Emily Galvin Almanza's website: https://www.emilygalvinalmanza.com Order your copy of Andromeda Diaz and the Reasonable Doubt: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/816163/andromeda-diaz-and-the-reasonable-doubt-by-emily-galvin-almanza/ Emily Galvin Almanza's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/galvinalmanza/

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, Michelle Glogovac interviews David Conrad Perez about his new book, Fire in the Heart of the City. They explore the history of New York City through the lens of the tragic Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire, examining its lasting impact on labor rights, workplace safety, philanthropy, and social reform. Perez shares the historical inspiration behind his work and discusses how this pivotal moment continues to shape conversations about workers, inequality, and the responsibility of communities to create meaningful change. What We're Talking About... The history and lasting impact of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory FireThe rise of modern philanthropy and charitable giving in New York CityHow media manipulation and public relations shape public perceptionThe influence of wealthy elites and philanthropy on social policyThe contributions of immigrant women to the labor movement and workers’ rightsThe evolution of labor unions, workers’ rights, and social activism in America Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:04 Overview of the Book and Its Significance 03:29 The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire: What Happened 04:55 The Aftermath and Public Reaction to the Fire 06:20 The Rise of Philanthropy and Its Complexities 07:02 The Connection to New York Times and Media 12:43 Why the Author Chose to Tell This Story 14:51 Research Process and Archival Work 24:23 Lessons and Legacy of the Fire and Social Movements 29:10 Final Thoughts and Call to Action Links Mentioned David Conrad-Perez's website: www.davidconradperez.com

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, author J.K. MacLaren discusses her debut novel Full Throttle, a steamy Formula One sports romance blending high-octane racing with amorous tension. She talks about her writing process and research into the F1 world, and dives into the novel's themes of family, feminism, and the balance of masculinity and femininity in modern romance. What We're Talking About... Writing "Full Throttle": J.K. MacLaren's process for crafting a debut Formula One sports romance novelF1 Racing Research: Behind-the-scenes research into motorsport details and authenticity in racing fictionFamily & Gender Roles: Exploring family dynamics and gender expectations in modern romancePersonal & Cultural Inspiration: How J.K. MacLaren's background shaped the novel's voice and storyFeminism & Masculinity: Balancing feminist themes with representations of masculinity in romance writing Chapters 0:00 Welcome to Full Throttle 1:20 Falling for Formula One 2:25 Writing a Racing Novel Without Being a Racer 6:36 Shakespeare, Family, and Easter Eggs 9:42 Family Pressure and Opposites Attract 18:18 Cowboy Boots and Feminine Power 27:49 What’s Next for the Series Links Mentioned J.K. MacLaren's website: https://jkmaclaren.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jkmaclaren Order your copy of Full Throttle: https://bookshop.org/a/99223/9798217095476

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, author Ashley Winstead returns to the podcast to talk with Michelle about her latest thriller, Hot Girl Murder Club. Ashley shares insights into her writing process, the research behind her books, and what it’s like to write across multiple genres. She also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the publishing industry, discusses her evolution as a multi-genre author, and shares practical research and writing tips for aspiring writers. Whether you’re a fan of psychological thrillers, mystery novels, or Ashley Winstead’s work, this conversation offers a fascinating look at the craft and business of writing. What We're Talking About... The inspiration behind Ashley Winstead’s Hot Girl Murder Club and its central themesCrime research, police procedural details, and writing realistic thriller scenesThe challenges and creative benefits of writing across multiple genresAshley Winstead’s insights into the publishing industry, book trends, and market preferencesFeminism, social issues, and cultural commentary in contemporary thriller and mystery fiction Chapters 00:00 Ashley Winstead Instroduction 01:03 Overview of Hot Girl Murder Club 02:26 The Origin and Themes of the Book 04:02 Market Trends and Genre Preferences 08:01 Writing with Escapism and Social Commentary 12:02 Research Process for Crime and Police Details 27:42 Character Development and Surprises 34:32 Future Projects and Genre Exploration Links Mentioned Ashley Winstead's website: https://www.ashleywinstead.com

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac welcomes debut author Lina Patton to discuss her novel The Lake Club. Lina shares the inspiration behind her first book, how living abroad shaped her perspective as a writer, and the role that travel and personal experiences played in crafting the novel's setting and characters. The conversation explores Lina's creative process, from developing compelling, emotionally resonant characters to balancing authentic settings with fictional storytelling. She also offers an honest look at the publishing journey as a debut author, the challenges of bringing a first novel to life, and the lessons she learned along the way. What We're Talking About... Lina Patton's journey to writing her debut novel, The Lake ClubHow living in Kosovo inspired her storytelling and creative perspectiveChoosing authentic character names and crafting immersive fictional settingsThe six-year journey of writing, revising, and publishing a debut novelExploring themes of home, belonging, friendship, and social dynamics in contemporary fictionWeaving personal experiences and real-life inspiration into fictional storiesBehind the scenes of the novel writing, editing, and publishing processHow publishing trends and market timing influence book deals and releasesLina Patton's creative hobbies, including doodling, stationery, and artistic inspiration Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Lina Patton and The Lake Club 04:02 Making up characters based on real life 08:55 The Kosovo connection and personal experiences 10:25 Incorporating hockey into the story 12:37 Cover design and visual details 16:23 Sponsorship message and agency 26:17 Surprise plot twist and reader reactions 30:37 Where to find Lina and her book Links Mentioned Lina Patton's website: www.linapatton.com

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with Kathryn Nicolai, creator of the hit sleep podcast Nothing Much Happens and author of the audio novel On the Street Where You Live. Kathryn shares how she transformed the simple act of storytelling into a global community centered on rest, mindfulness, and human connection. Together, they discuss the power of everyday stories, the role of sensory details in creating calming narratives, and why slowing down can help us reconnect with ourselves and others. Kathryn also offers insight into her creative process, the inspiration behind her audio novel, and how intentional storytelling can foster empathy, comfort, and a greater appreciation for the ordinary moments that shape our lives. Whether you're interested in mindfulness, storytelling, sleep, creativity, or discovering your next favorite book, this conversation offers thoughtful insights into the healing power of stories and the importance of finding connection in everyday life. What We're Talking About... The power of sensory details in immersive storytellingHow storytelling builds community and meaningful human connectionWhy cozy, wholesome stories resonate with readers and listenersBehind the scenes of writing books and producing audiobooksMindfulness, presence, and finding beauty in everyday momentsWorld-building techniques for fiction, podcasts, and audio storytellingThe connection between storytelling, emotional well-being, and mental health Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kathryn Nicolai and her work 01:00 The origins of the Nothing Much Happens podcast 02:12 The power of storytelling for sleep and relaxation 02:53 Creating a genre: narrative sleep stories 03:50 Expanding into books and world-building 04:48 The process of writing the book On the Street Where You Live 06:02 Sensory details and emotional depth in storytelling 06:57 The importance of community and connection 08:02 The role of cozy stories in a chaotic world 08:56 Balancing multiple projects and creative energy 09:46 The future of storytelling and community building 11:03 How stories shape our understanding of the world 12:06 Closing thoughts and where to find Kathryn's work Links Mentioned Nothing Much Happens Podcast: https://www.nothingmuchhappens.com Listen to On the Street Where You Live: https://www.audible.com/pd/On-the-Street-Where-You-Live-Audiobook/B0GF9RRVRR?source_code=GO1PP30DTRIAL54703142491H0&gclsrc=aw.ds&ds_rl=1261256&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=16881025087&gclid=Cj0KCQjwo_PRBhDNARIsAEcVALV13XH_IDZ7LYIEwNty6YRMFWKNjY2i-4JWLF7EbtDzrE5n0h4WmkMaAteZEALw_wcB

In this episode of Beyond the Campaign, Lindsey Patrick Wright shares her inspiring journey from career librarian to Tennessee State Senate candidate. She discusses why public libraries are essential to strong communities, the power of grassroots activism, and her commitment to protecting human rights in a challenging political landscape. The conversation explores civic engagement, public service, and the importance of standing up for equitable policies that strengthen communities across Tennessee and beyond. What We're Talking About... Lindsey Patrick Wright's journey from librarian to Tennessee State Senate candidateThe vital role of public libraries in strengthening communities and protecting democracyThe impact of book banning, censorship, and intellectual freedom in schoolsGrassroots campaigning strategies that increase voter engagement and civic participationHow social media shapes political campaigns, public discourse, and electionsWhy community representation matters in state and local governmentStrategies for flipping political seats and building momentum in Tennessee electionsHow national political issues influence local races and voter priorities Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Lindsey Patrick Wright and her background 02:00 Lindsey's journey from theater to librarianship 03:52 The multifaceted role of public libraries 09:03 Community activism and fighting book bans 12:50 The rise of Moms for Liberty and their impact 16:11 Lindsay's personal story and coming out as LGBTQ+ 19:50 Deciding to run for office and the low bar for candidates 26:00 Gerrymandering and the fight to flip Tennessee seats 28:59 Engaging young voters and grassroots efforts 33:01 The role of social media in modern campaigning 36:10 How to support Lindsey's campaign and get involved Links Mentioned Lindsey Patrick Wright's campaign website: https://www.lindseyfortn.com Instagram: @‌lindseypatrickwright

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with bestselling author Rachel Beanland to discuss her historical novel, The Half Life. Set on the Italian island of La Maddalena during the 1970s, the conversation explores the realities of Navy life abroad, the complexities of secrecy and family dynamics, cultural immersion, and the impact of American expansionism. Rachel shares the extensive research behind the novel, her approach to crafting compelling historical fiction, and the real-life events that inspired the story. This episode is perfect for readers who love historical fiction, richly developed characters, and behind-the-scenes insights into the writing process. What We're Talking About... Navy life in 1970s Italy and the unique dynamics of military families living overseasResearching historical fiction, including military history, Italian culture, and real-world eventsCultural immersion, identity, and belonging while living abroad in a close-knit communitySecrecy, trust, and relationships within military families and Navy communitiesThe impact of American expansionism on local Italian communities and the historical context behind The Half Life Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Rachel Beanland and The Half Life 01:01 Setting and inspiration behind the story in La Maddalena 03:14 The US Navy presence in Italy and its impact on local communities 04:54 Character development and themes of identity and marriage 06:42 Secrecy and trust in military relationships 08:08 Research process for writing about nuclear submarines 10:48 Immersion into Italian culture and American military life 12:39 Balancing personal stories and historical accuracy 14:20 Early marriage and family dynamics in the story 18:09 Themes of autonomy and American expansionism 22:25 Women's healthcare and life on the island 26:30 Unique community traditions and daily life details 28:24 Upcoming projects and where to find Rachel Beanland Links Mentioned Rachel Beanland's website: http://www.rachelbeanland.com Order your copy of The Half Life: https://bookshop.org/a/99223/9781668069134

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, Michelle Glogovac sits down with bestselling co-authors Lee Kelly and Jennifer Thorne to discuss their collaborative novel, The Midnight Show. They share how they developed their unique co-writing process, the evolution of their creative partnership, and the inspiration behind crafting a suspenseful story infused with humor, nostalgia, and pop culture. The conversation explores the realities of writing with a creative partner, balancing multiple perspectives, and navigating the publishing journey. Lee and Jennifer also offer valuable advice for aspiring authors, making this an insightful episode for readers, writers, and anyone fascinated by the art of collaborative storytelling. What We're Talking About... Developing a successful co-writing process and how Lee Kelly and Jennifer Thorne's collaboration has evolved over timeExploring the influence of Saturday Night Live, comedy, and pop culture on the creation of The Midnight ShowNavigating creative feedback, building trust, and overcoming the challenges of collaborative writingBehind-the-scenes insights into the rapid development and publishing timeline of The Midnight ShowUsing mixed media, dialogue, and innovative storytelling techniques to create an immersive reading experienceBalancing solo writing careers with the demands and rewards of co-authoring novelsCrafting engaging, fast-paced narratives that keep readers invested from beginning to endThe importance of shared vision, communication, and creative partnership in successful collaborative fiction writing Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:12 The Co-Writing Journey 07:12 Building a Writing Community 10:04 The Creative Process and Synergy 13:04 Inspiration from SNL 16:12 Writing The Midnight Show 19:17 Surprising Endings and Reader Reactions 20:55 Character Development and Naming 21:45 Audiobook Experience and Performance 22:45 Mockumentary Concept and Adaptation 25:51 Upcoming Projects and New Directions 35:00 Validation and Support in Writing 36:20 Closing Thoughts and Social Media Connections Links Mentioned Lee Kelly's website: https://www.leekellyauthor.com Jennifer Thorne's website: https://www.jenniferthorne.com Order your copy of The Midnight Show: https://bookshop.org/a/99223/9798217086672

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with bestselling author Claire Swinarski to discuss her latest novel, The Supper Club Saints. Claire shares the inspiration behind the book, her experience writing both middle grade and adult fiction, and how Wisconsin's rich culture and traditions shape her storytelling. They also explore family dynamics, character development, the creative writing process, and what makes stories resonate with readers across generations. What We're Talking About... Wisconsin culture and supper club traditions in contemporary fictionWriting middle grade vs. adult novels: Claire Swinarski's creative processFamily secrets, generational relationships, and emotional storytellingThe inspiration behind the "mommune" concept and modern motherhoodCrafting authentic, character-driven realistic fiction Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Claire Swinarski 03:25 Exploring The Supper Club Saints 09:42 Understanding Character Depth and Backstories 13:59 The Art of Writing for Different Age Groups 19:12 The Inspiration Behind The Supper Club Saints 24:37 Balancing Multiple Writing Projects Links Mentioned Claire Swinarski's website: http://www.claireswinarski.com CLaire Swinarski's Substack: http://www.claireswinarski.com/newsletter

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with bestselling author Ellen Baker to discuss her captivating novel, Summerland Cove. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Maine coast, the conversation explores family dynamics, long-buried secrets, mental health, healing, and the bonds that connect generations. Ellen shares the inspiration behind Summerland Cove, her approach to crafting complex multi-generational characters, and the research and writing process that brought the story to life. Whether you're a fan of family sagas, women's fiction, or character-driven novels, this episode offers an inside look at the themes and storytelling techniques that make Summerland Cove such a compelling read. Tune in to discover how Ellen Baker weaves together family secrets, emotional resilience, and the beauty of coastal Maine in a novel that explores what it means to truly come home. What We're Talking About... • Exploring family secrets, mental health, and healing in contemporary fiction • How the Maine coast inspired the setting of Summerland Cove • Crafting compelling multi-generational family stories • Addressing mental health and other complex topics with authenticity and sensitivity • Creating realistic characters, relationships, and immersive settings Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ellen Baker and Summerland Cove 04:12 Exploring Generational Dynamics and Identity 07:17 The Weight of Secrets and Mental Health 10:20 The Inspiration Behind Summerland Cove 13:43 Ellen Baker's Journey as a Writer 16:41 Themes of Family and Relationships 19:30 The Role of Setting in Storytelling 22:26 Character Development and Complexity 25:41 Looking Ahead: Future Projects Links Mentioned Ellen Baker's website: www.ellenbakernovels.com Ellen Baker's Instagram: @ellenbakernovels

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle : sits down with author and journalist Elizabeth Svoboda to discuss her new book, The Art of Pacing. They explore the power of pacing in everyday life and how managing energy, embracing rest, and creating intentional pauses can improve well-being, support activism, and help prevent burnout. Elizabeth shares practical strategies, including breath work and sustainable productivity techniques, that empower individuals to make meaningful contributions without sacrificing their mental and physical health. Tune in for an insightful conversation about balance, resilience, and the art of thriving in a fast-paced world. What We're Talking About... The importance of pacing for sustainable activism, personal growth, and long-term well-beingBreath work techniques and heart rate variability strategies for stress management and resilienceThe power of meaningful connections and the "brief candles" philosophy for creating lasting impactWhy pauses, retreats, and intentional rest are essential tools for self-care and burnout preventionHow delegation, community support, and strong networks help activists avoid burnout and sustain change Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 04:14 The Science of Giving and Activism 07:03 Pacing in Activism and Personal Well-being 10:23 Breath Work and Mindfulness Practices 13:08 The Power of “Brief Candle Moments” 25:21 The Journey of Scientific Writing and Future Perspectives 35:31 Pacing and Burnout 36:01 The Importance of Breathing Techniques Links Mentioned Elizabeth Svoboda's website: www.Elizabethsvoboda.com Elizabeth Svoboda's newsletter: elizabeth-svoboda.beehiiv.com Order your copy of The Art of Pacing: https://bookshop.org/a/99223/9781668022412