Read The Damn Book

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac dives into 107 Days by Kamala Harris. Glogovac explores the behind-the-scenes challenges of Harris’s campaign, the impact of media misrepresentation, and the unwavering support from her political allies. Through her review, Glogovac highlights the importance of separating fact from fiction and recognizing Harris’s leadership and resilience during one of the most turbulent periods in American politics.What We're Talking About...Kamala Harris had just 107 days to campaign following President Biden’s withdrawal, showcasing her ability to lead under intense pressure.The book reveals how media misrepresentation distorted Harris’s comments and shaped public perception.107 Days offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the campaign trail and the realities of running for national office.Harris’s journey highlights the unique challenges faced by women of color in politics and the strength required to overcome them.The book reinforces Harris’s lifelong commitment to being “for the people” and serving with integrity.Michelle Glogovac discusses her disappointment in the portrayal of Dr. Jill Biden, raising questions about narrative fairness.Harris’s grace, resilience, and leadership define her role during one of the most turbulent political moments in modern history.107 Days stands as a powerful piece of political history that every reader should explore.Chapters00:00 Introduction to '107 Days' and Kamala Harris02:51 The Challenges of a 107-Day Campaign06:06 Media Misrepresentation and Public Perception08:59 Support from Political Allies11:56 Reflections on Leadership and Legacy

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, Michelle Glogovac sits down with Zanna Keithley, author of Self-Affirmations: 100 Lessons for Learning to Love Yourself. Together, they explore the power of positive affirmations, the practice of self-love, and the role gratitude plays in personal growth. Zanna opens up about her journey to becoming a writer, how meditation and life experiences shaped her work, and why sharing personal stories can be so transformative. Listeners will gain practical insights on building confidence, embracing vulnerability, and using affirmations to create lasting change.What We're Talking About...Zanna Keithley’s writing journey began with a deep desire for self-expression.Positive affirmations can empower daily life and boost confidence.Meditation is a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery.Sharing personal stories creates authentic connection with others.Transformative experiences can lead to lasting self-love and inner peace.Learning to find “home” within yourself is key to emotional well-being.Words hold the power to inspire, impact, and create change.Practicing gratitude opens the door to joy and abundance.Your personal journey can motivate and uplift those around you.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Zanna Keithley04:32 The Journey of Self-Love and Writing07:25 The Power of Affirmations10:25 Meditation and Personal Growth13:22 Sharing Vulnerability Through Writing16:15 Transformative Moments in Life19:41 The Cross-Country Journey22:29 Finding Home Within Yourself25:17 Impact of Words on Others28:29 Gratitude and Connection31:27 Conclusion and Where to Find Zanna33:44 The Power of Self-Worth and Affirmations34:42 Creating a Ripple Effect of PositivityLinks MentionedZanna Keithley's website: https://zannakeithley.comZanna Keithley's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zannakeithley

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with anthropologist and author Danilyn Rutherford to discuss her powerful memoir Beautiful Mystery. The book chronicles Rutherford’s journey as a mother to her daughter Millie, who lives with an undiagnosed disability. Together, Michelle and Danilyn explore themes of parenting, communication, caregiving, and loss, while also examining the political and social realities of healthcare and support systems for people with disabilities. Rutherford shares moving insights on the importance of empathy, resilience, and community, while celebrating the rich social worlds that children like Millie create.What We're Talking About...Millie’s way of expressing herself shows the power of creativity and understanding in disability communication.Caregiving is essential for supporting children and adults with disabilities.Loss can reshape how families approach life, caregiving, and compassion.Disability support networks often lack stability and require stronger advocacy.Understanding and empathy are at the heart of building meaningful relationships.Millie’s life demonstrates how individuals with disabilities enrich entire communities.Policy decisions directly affect healthcare access and the well-being of vulnerable populations.Every relationship—family, friends, community—matters in shaping support and love.Perspective-taking fosters deeper compassion and understanding.Stronger advocacy for healthcare and disability services is vital for families like Millie’s.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background04:33 Understanding Millie's Condition07:33 The Importance of Communication10:44 The Role of Caregivers13:25 Navigating Loss and Grief16:41 The Impact of Community19:39 Empathy and Understanding22:06 Political Implications of Care24:48 Conclusion and Call to Action30:21 The Urgency of Healthcare Advocacy30:52 Understanding Millie's Story and Its ImpactLinks MentionedPurchase Beautiful Mystery: https://www.dukeupress.edu/beautiful-mysteryDanilyn Rutherford's website: https://danilynrutherford.com/about

In this bonus episode, Michelle Glogovac sits down with independent journalist Aaron Parnas to examine the growing crisis around freedom of speech in America. Using recent events involving media figures like Jimmy Kimmel as a backdrop, they explore how political pressures and corporate influence are threatening the First Amendment. Aaron shares his journey from law to journalism, the personal risks he faces reporting the truth, and why media literacy and civic education are essential to preserving democracy. Together, they make a compelling case for why supporting independent journalism is critical to protecting free speech and ensuring an informed public.What We're Talking About...Freedom of speech is under threat in America.Independent media is crucial for unbiased news.The current political climate is pushing journalists to adapt.Civics education is lacking in schools across the country.Engaging younger generations in politics is essential.The divide between active and inactive citizens is growing.Media literacy is necessary to combat misinformation.Independent journalists face unique challenges and threats.Supporting independent journalism is vital for democracy.Personal passion drives the work of independent journalists.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Current Events04:31 The Importance of Independent Media07:40 Navigating News in Real-Time10:45 The Shift from Law to Journalism13:50 Facing Threats as a Journalist16:59 The State of Political Engagement19:53 Encouraging Civic Awareness22:42 Supporting Independent Journalism23:51 The Importance of Supporting Free Speech24:20 Staying Informed and Active in Current EventsLinks MentionedAaron Parnas on Substackhttps://substack.com/@aaronparnas

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac opens up about her current reading challenges and shares a fall TBR list packed with suspense novels, memoirs, and self-help books. Michelle dives into the themes of each title, reflecting on how they inspire personal growth, self-discovery, and community connection. Whether you’re looking for book recommendations, curious about how to overcome a reading slump, or building your own seasonal reading list, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired and ready to turn the page.What We're Talking About...Michelle shares a variety of books on her TBR list for fall.The importance of understanding different perspectives through reading.Books like 'I Take My Coffee Black' resonate with her personal experiences.Self-love as a recurring theme in her reading choices.The need for community and togetherness through book clubs.Upcoming releases that include a mix of fiction and memoirs.Michelle encourages listeners to engage with their own reading journeys.The role of books in providing empathy and knowledge.Gratitude for authors who contribute to our reading experiences.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Reading Struggles03:09 Fall TBR Sneak Peek: Current Reads05:58 Upcoming Releases: September and October Highlights

In this episode of Read The Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with bestselling author, speaker, and activist Dr. Terence Lester to discuss his powerful memoir From Dropout to Doctorate. Dr. Lester opens up about his personal experiences with homelessness, poverty, and trauma, and how these challenges shaped his journey from high school dropout to community leader and Ph.D. The conversation dives into the complex realities of homelessness, the systemic issues tied to public policy and poverty, and the urgent need for compassionate advocacy.Listeners will learn how Dr. Lester’s story highlights the role of love, humanity, and kindness in creating lasting social change, and why empathy is essential in addressing homelessness at both individual and societal levels. This inspiring episode emphasizes the interconnectedness of trauma, poverty, and public policy, and challenges us all to rethink how we view and respond to those experiencing homelessness.What We're Talking About...Dr. Lester emphasizes the importance of love as an act of resistance.Home is defined as a place of belonging, not just a physical structure.Poverty is interconnected with trauma and societal issues.Youth homelessness is a significant and often overlooked issue.Empathy is crucial for understanding and addressing homelessness.Public policy often fails to consider the voices of those affected.The narrative around homelessness needs to change to include diverse perspectives.Advocacy should be driven by love and compassion for all.Conversations about societal issues are necessary for change.Personal stories can inspire vulnerability and connection in others.Chapters00:00 The Importance of Humanity and Kindness07:29 Understanding Homelessness and Its Complexities13:44 The Role of Public Policy in Homelessness19:27 The Interconnection of Poverty and Trauma25:38 Empathy and the Need for Compassion29:55 The Power of Love and Advocacy35:57 Vulnerability and Personal Stories41:54 Conclusion and Call to ActionLinks MentionedDr. Terence Lester's Website: terencelester.comFrom Dropout to Doctorate by Dr. Terence Lester: https://bookshop.org/a/99223/9781514011485Zion’s Closets https://www.ivpress.com/press-releases/2025/ivp-kids-zion-learns-to-see-turns-words-into-action-with-the-first-zions-closet-to-help-students-and-families-in-needLove Beyond Walls https://www.lovebeyondwalls.org/Dr. Terence Lester on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/imterencelester/Dr. Terence Lester on X https://x.com/imTerenceLestera...

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with bestselling author and Emmy-nominated writer Liza Palmer to discuss her latest novel, Young Fools. Their conversation explores Palmer’s inspiring writing journey, the evolution of her storytelling craft, and the recurring themes of female friendship, identity, and belonging that run throughout her work.Liza shares candid insights into her experiences writing for Marvel, what it’s like to earn Emmy nominations, and the creative process that shapes her novels. Together, Michelle and Liza highlight the importance of authentic personal connections in storytelling, the challenges authors face in today’s publishing landscape, and how writers can navigate both success and setbacks.Whether you’re a reader, writer, or aspiring author, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process, the resilience needed in a writing career, and why Young Fools is a must-read for fans of contemporary fiction and women’s stories.What We're Talking About...Liza Palmer's journey as a writer began in childhood.Writing is deeply connected to self-discovery.Friendship themes are central to Liza's novels.The creative process involves overcoming self-doubt.Writing for Marvel was a thrilling experience for Liza.Emmy nominations reflect Liza's diverse writing skills.The importance of setting in storytelling is emphasized.Aha moments in writing are magical and transformative.Revisions are crucial for meaningful storytelling.Future projects will continue to explore women's relationships.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Liza Palmer02:48 The Evolution of Liza's Writing Career05:39 Exploring Themes in Young Fools08:09 The Setting and Inspiration Behind the Book10:08 The Writing Process and Overcoming Challenges12:50 The Importance of Small Goals in Writing15:51 Writing for Marvel and Emmy Nominations19:33 The Significance of Friendships in Writing22:25 The Aha Moment in Writing24:30 Crafting the Twist in Young Fools25:31 Personal Reflections in the Book27:59 Looking Ahead: Liza's Next Project31:06 Liza's Journey and Creative Process31:28 The Impact of Deadlines on WritingLinks MentionedYoung Fools by Liza Palmerhttps://bookshop.org/a/99223/9781662527166 Liza Palmer on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lizapalmer/Liza Palmer's Website lizapalmer.comLiza Palmer on Substack

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with author Leigh Stein to discuss her new novel, If You're Seeing This, It's Meant for You. Their conversation explores how TikTok culture, tarot, and generational shifts shape the story, while also unpacking themes of therapy, identity, and digital life. Leigh shares the personal experiences and research that informed her writing, offering a candid look at both her creative process and her perspective on content creation in today’s world. The episode closes with Leigh reflecting on her evolution as a writer and where readers can discover more of her work.What We're Talking About...Leigh's new novel blends gothic mystery with modern TikTok culture.The concept of hype houses is a real phenomenon among influencers.Researching tarot card reading added depth to the novel's themes.Therapy is a recurring theme, reflecting its growing acceptance in society.TikTok's algorithm is unique, focusing on personalized content recommendations.The character of Owen Wilson the rabbit symbolizes innocence and connection.Generational differences are explored through the characters' interactions.The book features a love triangle that challenges age norms.Leigh's personal experiences influence her writing and character development.The novel encourages readers to reflect on their own life choices.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Celebration of New Book04:33 Exploring the Themes of Self-Care and TikTok Culture07:26 The Role of Therapy in Modern Life10:38 Navigating Content Creation and TikTok Dynamics13:30 The Fascination with Tarot and Its Influence16:27 The Unique World of Influencers19:25 Character Development and Personal Connections22:41 Generational Perspectives and Relevance25:28 Romantic Dynamics in the Novel28:39 Reflections on Life Choices and Paths31:27 Conclusion and Where to Find the Book32:49 Introduction to the Book and Its Themes33:19 Exploring Tarot and TikTok CultureLinks MentionedIf You're Seeing This, It's Meant For You by Leigh Steinhttps://bookshop.org/a/99223/9780593983645 Leigh Stein's Websitehttps://www.leighstein.com/

Join host Michelle Glogovac on Read The Damn Book as she sits down with award-winning author Winnie M. Li to discuss her powerful new novel, What We Left Unsaid. In this thought-provoking conversation, Michelle and Winnie explore family dynamics, immigration stories, and the complexities of sibling relationships that shape identity.Winnie opens up about the personal experiences and cross-country research on Route 66 that inspired her storytelling. They dive into the challenges of motherhood, navigating cultural expectations, and the often-overlooked chapters of American history. This episode is perfect for readers who love multi-generational family dramas, immigrant narratives, and literary fiction that unpacks belonging and identity.What We're Talking About...Winnie's novel addresses powerful themes like immigration and family dynamics.The story is centered around a road trip that reveals hidden family secrets.Sibling relationships are complex and often fraught with misunderstandings.The past significantly influences the characters' present lives.Winnie's personal experiences shaped her writing and research for the novel.The book explores the immigrant experience in America.Motherhood brings its own set of anxieties and expectations.Cultural identity plays a crucial role in the characters' lives.Historical context is essential to understanding the characters' journeys.The novel encourages readers to reflect on their own family dynamics and histories.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Author Background01:00 Themes of Family and Immigration03:50 Sibling Dynamics and Relationships06:57 Exploring the Past: The 1991 Road Trip10:51 Researching Route 66 and Personal Experiences18:06 Driving and Personal Growth21:59 Motherhood and Family Expectations25:49 Cultural Identity and Guilt30:07 Historical Context and American IdentityLinks MentionedWhat We Left Unsaid by Winnie M Lihttps://www.simonandschuster.com/books/What-We-Left-Unsaid/Winnie-M-Li/9781982190880What We Left Unsaid Kirkus Reviewhttps://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/winnie-m-li/what-we-left-unsaid/Winnie M Li’s Websitehttps://www.winniemli.com/

n this episode of Read The Damn Book, Michelle Glogovac sits down with award-winning author Cleyvis Natera to dive into her latest novel, The Grand Paloma Resort. This powerful conversation explores themes of immigration, class privilege, and cultural identity, all wrapped in a gripping story that’s been compared to White Lotus for its sharp social commentary and unforgettable characters.Cleyvis shares her writing process, how her personal immigration journey shaped her storytelling, and why she intentionally writes complex, even unlikable protagonists to challenge readers’ perceptions. They discuss the cultural and historical context woven into the novel, the dynamics of wealth and power in elite spaces, and the escape literature can provide while still pushing important conversations forward.If you love thought-provoking contemporary fiction that examines privilege, identity, and human connection, this episode will make you want to grab The Grand Paloma Resort immediately.What We're Talking About...The inspiration behind The Grand Paloma ResortInsights into Natera’s writing process and character developmentHonest conversations about immigration and navigating privilegeWhy literature can be both an escape and a mirror to societyChapters00:00 Introduction and Excitement for the Book02:57 Overview of The Grand Paloma Resort05:41 Writing Process and Inspirations08:19 Immigration Journey and Personal Background14:04 Themes of Class and Privilege16:43 Character Development and Unlikable Protagonists22:29 Cultural and Historical Context25:23 Conclusion and Future AspirationsLinks MentionedCleyvis Natera’s Websitehttps://cleyvisnatera.com/The Grand Paloma Resort by Cleyvis Naterahttps://bookshop.org/a/99223/9780593873267

In this episode, activist and author Ruchira Gupta talks about her powerful book The Freedom Seeker, which follows the inspiring journey of a young girl navigating migration and overcoming immense challenges. Gupta, a renowned advocate against human trafficking, shares her real-life experiences fighting to end exploitation and her vision of a world where no human being is ever bought or sold. This conversation dives deep into the realities of migration, trafficking, and social injustice while emphasizing the transformative power of empathy, kindness, and human connection.What We're Talking About...Ruchira Gupta is an activist for girls' rights and child migration.The Freedom Seeker tells the story of a 12-year-old girl crossing the border.Gupta's activism began after discovering trafficking in Nepal.Empathy is crucial in understanding the plight of migrants.Kindness can lead to significant social change.Every fourth child in America is living with an immigrant parent.Small acts of kindness can make a difference in communities.Humanizing migrants is essential to combat stigma.The journey of migration is fraught with danger and challenges.Gupta emphasizes the importance of community and connection in activism.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Ruchira Gupta01:02 The Freedom Seeker: A Story of Migration05:22 Activism and the Fight Against Trafficking09:56 Understanding Migration and Its Challenges14:56 Empathy and Human Connection20:12 The Role of Kindness in Social Change25:14 Defining Humanity in Crisis28:49 Celebrating Diversity and CoexistenceLinks MentionedThe Freedom Seeker by Ruchira Guptahttps://bookshop.org/a/99223/9781339012421 Ruchira Gupta's Websitehttps://ruchiragupta.com/

In this episode, Michelle Glogovac sits down with author Charlotte Otter to explore the urgent call for a new kind of leadership—one rooted in authenticity, diversity, and human connection. Drawing from her book We Need New Leaders, Charlotte breaks down the essential skills modern leaders must embrace, including reputation management, intentional communication, and the strategic use of social media to build personal brands. Together, they discuss why storytelling is a leadership superpower and how real connection—not AI-generated polish—is what truly resonates in today’s digital age. What We're Talking About... Diverse voices lead to more innovative companies. Reputation is a form of power for leaders. Authenticity should be about values, not just a buzzword. Proactive reputation management is essential for leaders. Personal branding is crucial in today's job market. Leaders should share their stories to educate and help others. Social media is a powerful tool for internal communication. Podcasts provide a platform for authentic leadership. Storytelling is a fundamental aspect of human connection. The future of leadership involves embracing vulnerability and humanity. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Diversity 02:42 The Importance of Reputation in Leadership 05:40 Proactive Reputation Management 08:17 Building Personal Brands and Authenticity 11:18 The Role of Social Media in Leadership 14:08 Charlotte's Journey in Communications 17:03 The Power of Storytelling in Leadership 19:50 The Future of Leadership and Podcasting Links Mentioned Charlotte Otter on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotteeliseotter/ We Need New Leaders by Charlotte Otter https://www.charlotteotter.com/leaders Charlotte Otter on Substack https://otterc.substack.com/

In this episode of Booked & Unfiltered, Michelle Glogovac and Stephanie Hockersmith tackle a hot-button topic in the literary world: Are audiobooks real reading? (Spoiler alert: Yes, they are.) They break down the outdated stigma around audiobooks and make the case for why listening counts—especially in a fast-paced world where accessibility matters. From the power of a great narrator to the freedom of reading on the go, Michelle and Steph explore how audiobooks expand the reading experience for everyone. This honest, funny, and thoughtful conversation is a must-listen for book lovers, skeptics, and audiobook converts alike. What We're Talking About... Audiobooks are a legitimate form of reading. Listening to a book engages the brain just like reading. Accessibility in reading is crucial for all individuals. Audiobooks can enhance the reading experience for busy lifestyles. Narrators play a significant role in bringing stories to life. The stigma against audiobooks is harmful and outdated. Different people absorb stories in different ways. Audiobooks can be a tool for learning and engagement. There are many platforms available for accessing audiobooks. Audiobooks can support local libraries and independent bookstores. Chapters 00:00 The Audiobook Debate Begins 02:54 Understanding Reading: Audiobooks vs. Traditional Reading 05:58 The Impact of Audiobooks on Learning and Engagement 09:04 Accessibility and the Evolution of Audiobooks 11:46 The Role of Narrators in Audiobooks 15:05 Audiobooks as a Tool for All Readers 17:52 Exploring Audiobook Platforms and Accessibility 20:52 Final Thoughts on Audiobooks and Reading

In this sharp and thought-provoking conversation, Jo Piazza dives into her new novel, Everyone Is Lying To You, a bold takedown of the tradwife trend and toxic influencer culture. She unpacks the power of storytelling as a tool for cultural critique, challenging the curated, unrealistic portrayals of women’s lives online. The episode explores themes of agency, gender roles, and the societal pressures women navigate daily—while showcasing how fiction can reveal deeper truths about our world. What We're Talking About... Jo Piazza identifies as a storyteller, not a content creator. The tradwife phenomenon often masks the loss of women's agency. Influencer culture presents an unrealistic lifestyle that many aspire to. Women are experiencing burnout from the pressures of girl boss culture. The left struggles with branding and losing the culture wars. It's possible to have it all, but it requires systemic support. Fiction can serve as a powerful tool for cultural critique. Research into tradwives reveals a deeper cultural trend. Influencers often rent spaces to create idealized content. The reality of motherhood and work is often misrepresented in media. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Excitement for the Book Release 02:48 Exploring the Tradwife Phenomenon 05:39 The Impact of Influencer Culture 08:46 Critique of Traditional Gender Roles 11:35 The Role of Fiction in Cultural Critique 14:33 Research and Insights into Tradwives 17:08 The Reality Behind Influencer Lifestyles 20:12 Conclusion and Call to Action Links Mentioned Everyone Is Lying To You by Jo Piazza https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/784223/everyone-is-lying-to-you-by-jo-piazza/ Jo Piazza’s Website https://www.jopiazza.com/

In this heartfelt episode of My Simplified Life, hosts Michelle Glogovac and Stephanie Hockersmith explore how books shape our dreams, healing, and personal growth. From their fantasy of summering in beautiful places to their deep love for fiction and memoirs, Michelle and Steph dive into how literature provides both escape and emotional insight. They highlight the works of bestselling author Carley Fortune as perfect summer reads—offering reflection, romance, and relatable life struggles. The conversation also touches on grief, family dynamics, and the power of reading to help process complex emotions, especially when navigating topics like alcoholism and loss. Whether you're looking for meaningful book recommendations or simply need a reminder of how reading can transform your life, this episode is a warm, engaging, and honest discussion about the stories that stay with us long after the last page. What We're Talking About... Summering somewhere sounds delightful and aspirational. Carley Fortune's novels are perfect for summer reading. Books can evoke powerful memories and feelings. Memoirs provide insight into personal experiences. Reading can inspire a desire to work with authors. Fiction can offer an escape while reflecting real-life issues. The Baby-Sitters Club influenced childhood aspirations. Entrepreneurship can take many forms, including podcasting. Literature can shape personal growth and understanding. Summer reads can create a longing for lake life and romance. Manifesting dreams can be a powerful motivator. Reading a variety of genres enriches the literary experience. Mysteries often intertwine with themes of grief and loss. Grief can reshape our understanding of love and life. Books can provide comfort and insight into personal struggles. The portrayal of alcoholism in literature can be multifaceted and compassionate. Emotional journeys in books can inspire resilience in readers. Audiobook narrators play a crucial role in the reading experience. It's important to read at your own pace and enjoy the journey. Updating your reading list can lead to new discoveries and insights. Chapters 00:00 Summer Dreams and Aspirations 03:01 The Power of Books and Reading 06:01 Exploring Fiction and Memoirs 08:58 Carly Fortune's Novels and Escapism 11:48 Summer Reads and Personal Reflections 14:33 Manifesting Dreams and Literary Passions 15:39 Exploring Diverse Literary Genres 17:30 Mysteries and Grief in Literature 21:32 The Impact of Grief on Life 27:10 Navigating Alcoholism and Family Dynamics 31:52 The Emotional Journey of Reading

In this gripping episode, Michelle Glogovac sits down with acclaimed author Clémence Michallon to discuss her new psychological thriller, Our Last Resort. They dive into the art of writing crime fiction, how Clémence’s journalism background shapes her storytelling, and the chilling appeal of cults, suspense, and isolated settings. Clémence offers a behind-the-scenes look at her creative process, the emotional depth required to build complex characters, and the unique challenges of writing a second novel. From the symbolic role of animals to the haunting backdrop of a desert hotel, this conversation unpacks the layers of what makes Our Last Resort a must-read. What We're Talking About Clémence Michallon is an author known for her thrillers. Her new novel, Our Last Resort, explores themes of family and crime. The book features a cult aspect that adds depth to the story. Researching cults was a significant part of her writing process. Cults often prey on people's good qualities and desires for belonging. The setting of a desert hotel plays a crucial role in the narrative. Animals in her stories symbolize deeper human emotions and connections. Her background in journalism informs her character development. Empathy is essential in both journalism and fiction writing. The sophomore novel presents unique challenges and opportunities for growth. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Signature Style 01:15 Meet the Author: Clémence Michallon 02:05 Exploring Our Last Resort and Its Themes 04:08 Researching Cults: A Fascination with the Unusual 08:39 The Intersection of Crime and Character 15:26 From Journalism to Fiction: A Writer's Journey 20:16 The Complexity of True Crime and Empathy 25:28 The Sophomore Novel: Challenges and Growth Links Mentioned Our Last Resort by Clémence Michallon https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/755766/our-last-resort-by-clemence-michallon/ Clémence Michallon on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/clemencemichallon/ Clémence Michallon on Substack

In this urgent conversation, Congressman Eric Swalwell breaks down what’s at stake with the so-called “Big Fugly Bill” currently making its way through Congress. He exposes the real consequences—skyrocketing healthcare and energy costs, corporate giveaways, and devastating impacts on everyday Americans. Swalwell makes it clear: this bill is wildly unpopular for a reason. He calls on all of us to stay engaged, get loud, and pressure our representatives to vote no before it’s too late. What We're Talking About... The 'fugly bill' is facing significant opposition in Congress. Republicans are struggling to gather enough votes to pass the bill. The bill could lead to millions losing their healthcare. Cuts to healthcare will affect everyone, not just those on Medicaid. Rural hospitals are at risk of closing due to the bill. The bill is seen as a favor to wealthy donors rather than constituents. Public engagement is crucial in influencing representatives' votes. Every call to a representative matters in this tight vote. The bill's unpopularity is widespread across party lines. Coalition-building is essential to oppose harmful legislation. Chapters 00:00 The Fugly Bill: An Overview 03:02 The Impact of Healthcare Cuts 05:52 Mobilizing Public Action Against the Bill

In this episode of Booked & Unfiltered, Michelle Glogovac and Stephanie Hockersmith dive into the unspoken pressure readers face in a world obsessed with speed and quantity. From the guilt of not finishing a book (DNF) to the blurred lines between genuine reviews and influencer content, they unpack how hustle culture is infiltrating the literary world. Michelle and Steph get real about balancing reading for work vs. reading for joy, why timing is everything when it comes to picking up the right book, and how mixing up your reading routine can reignite the spark. Plus, a fun wrap-up on dream book merch—because who wouldn't want a tote that says “Read The Damn Book”? What We're Talking About... The pressure to read can be overwhelming, especially with so many new releases. It's important to find books that resonate with you personally. Reading should be enjoyable, not a chore or competition. DNFing a book doesn't mean you failed; it means you're honoring your reading journey. Everyone has different preferences and opinions about books. Reading is a personal experience and should be tailored to individual needs. Book reviews should reflect genuine engagement with the material. Mixing up genres can enhance the reading experience and prevent burnout. It's okay to prioritize reading for pleasure over professional obligations. Merchandising ideas can stem from a love for books and reading.  Chapters 00:00 The Pressure to Read All the Books 06:02 The DNF Debate: When to Put a Book Down 11:47 Balancing Reading for Pleasure and Work 18:03 Mixing Up Your Reading Routine 23:56 The Future of Book Merchandising

In this episode of My Simplified Life, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with bestselling author Brooke Lea Foster to discuss her latest novel, Our Last Vineyard Summer. Brooke dives into the world of historical beach fiction, sharing how real-life inspirations, women's experiences, and personal growth shape her storytelling. She opens up about her transition from journalism to fiction, the creative writing process, and the power of relationships in overcoming life’s challenges. The conversation also explores how politics continue to impact women’s rights, highlighting the ongoing struggles women face today. Whether you're a fan of women’s fiction, historical novels, or looking for your next summer read, this episode offers deep insight into Foster's work and the themes that resonate with readers. What We're Talking About... Brooke's book is categorized as historical beach fiction. The setting of Martha's Vineyard plays a significant role in the story. Women in the 60s and 70s faced struggles similar to those today. Books can help us understand past and present issues. The importance of women's relationships in personal growth is highlighted. Brooke's transition from journalism to fiction was inspired by her experiences on Martha's Vineyard. The creative process often involves daydreaming and listening to one's inner voice. Brooke emphasizes the need for women to ask for what they need. The book explores the impact of politics on women's lives. Brooke's next project will be set in the 80s, continuing her exploration of women's stories. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Garden Party Excitement 02:26 Brooke's Journey from Journalism to Novelist 04:15 Exploring Historical Beach Fiction 10:23 Women’s Struggles Across Time 16:35 Character Relationships and Feminism 22:14 The Writing Process and Inspirations 28:37 Looking Ahead: Future Projects 31:29 The Power of Books in Understanding Balance 32:00 Empathy Through Literature and Reflection on the Past Links Mentioned Our Last Vineyard Summer by Brooke Lea Foster https://bookshop.org/a/99223/9781668034408 Brooke Lea Foster’s Substack: Dear Fiction https://substack.com/@dearfiction Brooke Lea Foster on Instagram

Senator Cory Booker joins the show to break down the real-world consequences of a controversial bill making its way through Congress. He calls out the massive wealth transfer from working-class Americans to the ultra-wealthy, the looming threat of widespread job losses, and the deep moral failures embedded in the legislation. Senator Booker makes an urgent case for activism, stressing that democracy demands participation—and now is the time to show up and speak out. What We're Talking About The bill represents a significant wealth transfer from the poor to the rich. Healthcare costs will increase for millions of Americans. The bill could lead to job losses in various sectors. Many Americans will lose access to essential services like Medicaid and food stamps. Senator Booker believes the bill is morally wrong and un-American. Activism is crucial in influencing legislative outcomes. The power of the people can challenge those in power. Democracy requires active participation from citizens. Senator Booker encourages creative protests and activism. The consequences of inaction are severe for vulnerable populations. Chapters 00:00 The Current State of Legislation 03:05 The Moral Implications of the Bill 05:52 Activism and the Power of the People