Moms Don’t Have Time to Read Books (Title changing soon!)

One of her most exciting episodes ever! Zibby spoke to Matthew McConaughey about his memoir Greenlights, his children's book, and his career. She was basically sweating the whole time and tried not to show it.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3r84wmGShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tovah Feldshuh, the legendary actress currently starring in the hit Netflix series "Nobody Wants This" talked to Zibby about her relationship with her mother, fame, and more.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3P4wjgnShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Julie Silverstein and Tami Schlossberg Pruwer spoke with Zibby about inspiring Jewish women throughout history and their beautiful book Chutzpah Girls applies to today! Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/4fqvMQxShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On Sunday, December 15th, a crowd of 50 people gathered at Zibby's Bookshop to listen to an intimate conversation between Elisa Albert and Zibby Owens. They discussed Elisa's book HUMAN BLUES, her writing process, Zibby's anthology ON BEING JEWISH NOW, and the controversy at the Albany Book Festival about which Elisa wrote a powerful essay entitled, "An Invitation to the Anti-Zionists: You refused to sit on a literary panel with me. I invite you to my Shabbes table instead, so we can actually talk to each other and face her fears."Spoiler: no one accepted her invitation.Bio:Elisa Albert is the author of the novels Human Blues, After Birth, The Book of Dahlia, the story collection How This Night is Different, and the essay collection The Snarling Girl. Her work has been published in n+1, Tin House, Bennington Review, The New York Times, Michigan Quarterly Review, The Literary Review, Philip Roth Studies, Paris Review, Los Angeles Review of Books, Longreads, The Cut, Time Magazine, Post Road, Gulf Coast, Commentary, Salon, Tablet, Washington Square, The Rumpus, The Believer and in many anthologies. She has taught creative writing at Columbia University’s School of the Arts, The College of Saint Rose, Bennington College, Texas State University, University of Maine, and the Fine Arts Work Center in Provincetown. A Pushcart Prize nominee, finalist for the Sami Rohr Prize and Paterson Fiction Prize, winner of the Moment Magazine debut fiction prize, and Literary Death Match champion, Albert has served as Writer-in-Residence at the Netherlands Institute for Advanced Study in Holland and at the Hanse-Wissenschaftkolleg in Germany. Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Natalia Mehlman Petrzela and Zibby discussed Natalia's recent New York Times op-ed centered on antisemitism. She shared details about her own experiences, the meaning of "intersectionality," and what it's like to be on the faculty at an academic institution today. Bio:Natalia is the author of CLASSROOM WARS: Language, Sex, and the Making of Modern Political Culture (Oxford University Press, 2015), and FIT NATION: The Gains and Pains of America’s Exercise Obsession (University of Chicago Press, 2023). She is co-producer and host of the acclaimed podcast WELCOME TO YOUR FANTASY, from Pineapple Street Studios/Gimlet and the co-host of PAST PRESENT podcast. She is a columnist for MSNBC Opinion, a frequent media guest expert, public speaker, and contributor to outlets including the New York Times, the Washington Post, CNN, and the Atlantic.Natalia is a Carnegie Corporation Fellow in 2024-25, a National Endowment for the Humanities Public Scholar in 2025-26, and is currently working on two new books, a short history of the school culture wars, and a history of the Hamptons, with historian Neil J. Young. She is the executive producer of a new BBC podcast coming in Summer 2024, and of a documentary series based on FIT NATION, in development with TIME Studios. Natalia’s career began as a public school teacher, and she is currently Lead Historian on the Jewish American Hidden Voices curriculum for New York City’s Department of Education, launching in June 2025.Natalia is Professor of History at The New School, co-founder of the wellness education program Healthclass 2.0, and a Premiere Leader of the mind-body practice intenSati. Her work has been supported by the Spencer, Whiting, Rockefeller, and Mellon Foundations, the Carnegie Corporation, and the National Endowment for the Humanities. She holds a B.A. from Columbia and a Ph.D. from Stanford and lives with her husband and two children in New York City. Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Special holiday re-release! Zibby speaks to award-winning author David Sedaris about THE BEST OF ME, a wickedly funny and memorable collection of stories about life’s surprises. David talks about owning who you are as a writer and explains why “publishing isn’t writing.” He also tells Zibby why he doesn’t read internet comments and discloses how he expresses love (hint: it involves Christmas!)Purchase on Bookshop: bit.ly/3OIvWspShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby welcomes award-winning middle-grade author, cartoonist, and children’s TV creator Alan Silberberg and New York Times bestselling children’s author and cartoonist Terri Libenson to discuss FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS, the beautiful and moving anthology they both contributed to that is an ode to the magic of Hanukkah and what it means to be Jewish. While Alan’s story explores Jewish mysticism, Terri’s story blends doodles and text in her signature style to examine the impact of our actions and family legacy. The three also delve into the broader themes of Jewish identity, cultural connection, and navigating a post-October 7th world.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/4fdiczLShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby chats with author Taylor Hahn about A HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS, a moving, charming, and tenderhearted Christmas romance that follows wedding singer Mel as she navigates complicated grief, secrets, found family, and newfound hope after her mother’s sudden passing. Taylor, who also lost her mother unexpectedly, shares how writing this book was a transformative and healing process and then delves into complex mother-daughter relationships, the nuances of grief, and the layers of identity reflected in her book. She also touches on her dual life as a lawyer and a writer, her pivot to creative expression, and the mix of personal milestones—including her pregnancy—that coincided with profound loss.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/4gwkv2DShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode (a live event at the Streicker Center attended by more than 350 people!), Zibby joins authors Annabelle Gurwitch, Nicola Kraus, Lihi Lapid, and Talia Carner to discuss ON BEING JEWISH NOW, the inspiring collection of personal essays reflecting on Jewish identity in the aftermath of October 7th that they all contributed to. From motherhood and immigration to antisemitism and rediscovering Jewish heritage and resilience, each contributor shares stories from their essays and lives, making for a heartfelt, emotional, and thought-provoking panel.Purchase on Bookshop: bit.ly/3Y2gw5QShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby welcomes life coach, inspirational speaker, and host of the mega-hit podcast Abundant Ever After, Cathy Heller, to discuss her powerful and transformative new book, ABUNDANT EVER AFTER: Tools for Creating a Life of Prosperity and Ease. Cathy shares her spiritual journey—from facing antisemitism in college to exploring spirituality in Israel and integrating mindfulness and Jewish mysticism into her life. Then, she outlines actionable steps for building a life of joy, connection, fulfillment, and inner peace. Want to meet Cathy in real life? Get your weekend pass to the ZIBBY Retreat: Santa Barbara, Feb 21-23, 2025!Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/4g1RmvVShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby is joined by New York Times bestselling author Shannon Messenger to discuss UNRAVELED, the newest installment (book number 9.5!) of her stunning, imaginative, award-winning middle-grade series, KEEPER OF THE LOST CITIES. Shannon delves into her creative journey, explaining how a college broadcast writing class helped her shift from artist to writer. She also reflects on the perseverance it took to find and build her readership, crediting the support of teachers, librarians, and fans across the globe. Finally, she shares what it’s like to balance a writing career with parenting two young children!Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3ZyGYFYShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby interviews debut romance author Nora Dahlia about PICK-UP, a witty and sweetly satisfying enemies-to-lovers rom-com set around school drop-off culture. Nora shares the inspiration behind her book—an amusing lack of salacious gossip at her kids’ school—and then delves into her novel’s deeper themes, from maintaining individuality as a mother to navigating life’s messy middle stage, where aging parents, growing children, and personal desires collide. Nora also shares her creative process and reveals why she incorporated multiple perspectives in the book.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3ZwwhUpShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby chats with bestselling author Pip Drysdale about THE CLOSE-UP, a gripping, sultry, and ultimately shocking novel about a struggling author who discovers the dark side of fame when a stalker begins reenacting violent scenes from her thriller. Pip delves into her creative process and the intense research that went into this project. She also reflects on her global upbringing, heartbreaks, and journey from acting and songwriting to becoming an author. Finally, she shares valuable insight into the publishing world, touching on her marketing and PR efforts—and how she deals with setbacks.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/49kufK9Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby Books author alert! Megan Tady returns to the podcast to discuss BLUEBIRD DAY, a delightfully heartwarming tale of an estranged mother-daughter Olympic skiing duo who finally face the bumps in their relationship when an avalanche in a Swiss village forces them together. Megan describes the real-life avalanche that inspired the story and then shares the pressures and joys of writing about competitive female athletes, complex family dynamics, and the themes of identity and ambition. She also reveals her personal connection to competitive sports and touches on mental health, toxic relationships, and the sacrifices of pursuing elite athletic careers.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/4f0puXoShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

#1 New York Times bestselling author Liane Moriarty returns to the podcast to discuss HERE ONE MOMENT, a riveting, terrifically crafted novel about free will, destiny, love, and death that begins with a mysterious woman walking down a plane aisle mid-flight pronouncing how and when her fellow passengers will die. Liane delves into the philosophical and emotional depth of her novel. Then, she shares how personal experiences, including her battle with breast cancer and the loss of her father, influenced the story. She explores themes of mortality, aging, love, and grief, and then shares how she crafts such multifaceted characters and intricate timelines.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3Vat2PUShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

#1 New York Times bestselling author Leigh Bardugo chats with Zibby about THE FAMILIAR, a spellbinding, lush, richly imagined novel set in the Spanish Golden Age that follows Lucia, a servant with miraculous abilities who becomes entangled in the political and religious turmoil of King Philip II’s court. Leigh discusses how this story, inspired by her own Sephardic Jewish heritage, weaves themes of ambition, identity, and survival. She also talks about her journey as a writer, from finding solace in science fiction as a child to overcoming personal and professional hurdles to pen her debut novel.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/49ctW43Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Victoria Jackson joins Zibby to discuss WE ALL WORRY, NOW WHAT?, a seminal guide to rising from endless worry to a life of empowered action. Victoria shares her journey from Hollywood makeup artist to cosmetics mogul and, later, to medical advocate following her daughter's rare autoimmune diagnosis. Then, she delves into her tumultuous life experiences, from surviving a childhood rape to overcoming her cancer diagnosis, sharing the practical strategies that helped her transform her anxiety and panic into tools for resilience. Finally, she talks about her new bookstore, Godmothers, which she just opened in Montecito!Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3ZnLFCmShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby interviews TV exec and debut author Nayantara Roy about THE MAGNIFICENT RUINS, a wise, witty, and deeply moving novel about a young Indian American editor who inherits her estranged family’s sprawling mansion in India—and their long-buried secrets. Nayantara reflects on her novel’s nine-year evolution, the challenges of cutting a 600-page draft, and the joy of crafting a story that bridges Brooklyn and Calcutta. She also shares what it was like to tackle generational trauma and cultural norms in her writing. Finally, she touches on her career in television and teases her next novel.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3YX5Ky5Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New York Times bestselling author Marisha Pessl chats with Zibby about DARKLY, a wildly smart, edge-of-your-seart psychological YA thriller about a mysterious board game creator whose legacy intrigues a young fan, Arcadia Gannon. She and six other teenagers win coveted internships at Darkly… and so the mystery begins. Marisha shares her love of board games, her North Carolina upbringing, and her fascination with legend vs. reality, all of which inspired this novel. She also touches on her early struggles with writing and the discipline she has developed to balance writing with raising three daughters. Finally, she teases her next project.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/4hXDLaeShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zibby is joined by French writer, philosopher, filmmaker, and humanitarian activist Bernard-Henri Lévy to discuss ISRAEL ALONE, a powerful analysis of the global response to October 7, the new virulent waves of antisemitism, and why Israel is waging an existential war against barbarism alone. Bernard-Henri shares his experience traveling to Israel immediately after the 10/7 attacks, witnessing the aftermath, and drawing inspiration from the resilience of Israeli communities. He also delves into the global rise in antisemitism, Israel’s solitude in its fight against terrorism, and the broader implications for humanity when freedom is attacked.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/4g0w3ufShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Now there's more! Subscribe to Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books on Acast+ and get ad-free episodes. https://plus.acast.com/s/moms-dont-have-time-to-read-books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.