This week we are joined by Erin Bennett! Erin Bennett is a Los Angeles-based actress whose passion for storytelling makes her a natural fit for audiobooks. Winner of multiple Earphones and Audie nominations, many of her over 500 titles have made AudioFile’s “Best Audiobooks” lists. Erin is one of the most versatile, genre-hopping narrators in the business, and according to Audible, is a "pied piper narrator. If she narrates, I listen!" Erin’s very first audiobook was Elin Hilderbrand's Summerland, in 2012, and since, she has been privileged to have narrated all or part of 22 of Ms. Hilderbrand’s novels, spanning approximately 215 hours of listening!

In this episode, Erin Bennett shares her journey from growing up in Napa to becoming a successful voice actor and theater performer. Erin reflects on her childhood, the dynamics within her family, and how they shaped her identity as an artist. She also delves into the challenges of navigating the acting world and the lessons learned through motherhood and personal growth. In this conversation, Erin Bennett shares her journey as an actor and audiobook narrator, emphasizing the importance of self-knowledge in portraying characters. She discusses the challenges of navigating criticism during her formative years and how her perception of herself has evolved over time. Erin reflects on her experiences in Los Angeles, the unexpected opportunities that arose, and her transition into audiobook narration. She also explores the fictional world of Nantucket, the research involved in her narration, and her recent connection with author Elin Hilderbrand. Give this episode a listen!

Recommendations From This Episode: 

The Perfect Couple - Audible

The Perfect Couple - Netflix

Follow Erin Bennett: @erinbennettnarrates

Follow Carly: @carlyjmontag

Follow Emily: @thefunnywalsh

Follow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod

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This week we are joined by Rebecca Fishbein! Rebecca Fishbein is the author of Floral Estrangements and Good Things Happen to People You Hate. She has also written for the New York Times, the Washington Post, Teen Vogue, and The Cut, among others. Make sure to check her out!

In this conversation, Rebecca shares her experiences of growing up in New York City, discussing the unique challenges and joys of city living, her journey into writing, and her transition from living alone to sharing space with her boyfriend. The discussion touches on themes of independence, childhood experiences, and the impact of the city on personal growth. She discusses her journey as a writer, including her latest book, 'Floral Estrangements,' which humorously explores the meanings of flowers and their implications in relationships. The discussion also touches on the importance of solitude, personal growth, and the creative process behind writing, revealing the emotional complexities of sharing one's work with the world. Give this episode a listen!

Recommendations From This Episode: 

Floral Estrangements

The Lost Apothecary

Lego Botanical Collection 

Follow Rebecca Fishbein: @bfishbfish

Follow Carly: @carlyjmontag

Follow Emily: @thefunnywalsh

Follow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod

Please rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! 

Email us: [email protected]

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week we are joined by Jessica Saul! Jessica is an LA based actress, comedian, and content creator hailing from South Florida. Jessica‘s unhinged internet videos have garnered millions of views on Tik Tok on Instagram as well as caused concern for her mental health. Her short film, Clementine which she wrote and starred in, showcased at 12 film festivals across the country, snagging nominations for several awards, taking home the title of "Best Short" at the Laugh After Dark Comedy Festival in Las Vegas.

In this episode, Jessica Saul, Emily, and Carly explore the complexities of balancing work, comedy, and personal life. We delve into the challenges of mental health, particularly hypochondria and touch on the importance of coping strategies. We discuss Jessica’s experience growing up in the family store on the Jersey Shore. The conversation highlights the importance of storytelling and personal connections in the world of entertainment. We even touch on our personal love stories, including how we met our partners and the unique proposals that followed. We make sure to address feelings of being the odd one out in social situations, reflecting on our experiences in college and beyond. Give this episode a listen!

Recommendations From This Episode: 

King of Collectibles

Sloppy Firsts

Follow Jessica Saul: @bettercalljsaul

Follow Carly: @carlyjmontag

Follow Emily: @thefunnywalsh

Follow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod

Please rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! 

Email us: [email protected]

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week we are joined by Leah Bonnema! Leah Bonnema is a stand-up comedian, actor and writer who has been seen on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Chris Gethard Presents, Oculus & AXS TV’s Gotham Comedy Live. She is the cohost of the popular podcast, Were You Raised By Wolves?!, and author of a romcom-esque novel, The Holiday Breakdown, which received a shout out on Katie Couric’s cite. Make sure to check her out!

In this episode,  Leah Bonnema and our hosts explore various themes related to their experiences in comedy, touring, and the creative processes involved in developing material on the road. The conversation also touches on holiday influences in comedy, family traditions, and the unique experiences at Burning Man. Additionally, we delve into Leah recording the audiobook version of her Christmas romcom and discuss our favorite Christmas movies, the essence of holiday films, and personal traditions surrounding Christmas. Give this episode a listen!

Recommendations From This Episode: 

The Holiday Breakdown

Who Killed Santa? A Murderville Murder Mystery

Dash & Lily

Follow Leah Bonnema: @leahbonnema

Follow Carly: @carlyjmontag

Follow Emily: @thefunnywalsh

Follow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod

Please rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! 

Email us: [email protected]

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week we are joined by Jenn Bouchard! Jenn Bouchard is the award-winning author of the novels First Course, Considering Us, and several short stories. She is a graduate of Bates College and Tufts University. An avid cook, Jenn volunteers for good causes and is a devoted Red Sox fan. A high school social studies teacher of twenty-five years, she lives with her family in the Boston suburbs.

In this episode, we  explore the evolution of education, the challenges of frequent relocations during childhood, and the impact of technology on student engagement. Jenn shares her experiences as a teacher and the dynamics of her government classes, particularly in light of recent political events. In this engaging conversation, Jenn Bouchard shares her journey from a busy teaching career to becoming a published author. She discusses the importance of building a supportive community and the challenges of navigating the publishing process. Jenn also reflects on how her personal experiences and teaching background shape her stories, and she offers insights into the balancing act of managing family life and a writing career. The conversation concludes with a light-hearted discussion about the joys of dining alone and the unexpected moments that come with being an author. Give this episode a listen!

Recommendations From This Episode: 

Considering Us

First Course

Is It Cake?

A People’s History of the United States

Follow Jenn Bouchard: @jennbouchardbos

Follow Carly: @carlyjmontag

Follow Emily: @thefunnywalsh

Follow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod

Please rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! 

Email us: [email protected]

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week we are joined by Dr. Sara Glass! Sara Glass, PhD, LCSW is a therapist, writer, and speaker who helps members of the queer community and individuals who have survived trauma to live bold, honest, and proud lives. She lives in Manhattan, New York. Make sure to follow @drsaraglass on social platforms!

This week, Sarah Glass discusses her journey of navigating multiple roles as a therapist, author, and LGBTQ+ advocate. She shares her experiences growing up in a strict Hasidic community, her struggles with identity, and the impact of her coming out on her family and children. The discussion delves into the complexities of living authentically while managing societal and familial expectations, as well as the importance of creating safe spaces for others in similar situations. In this conversation, Dr. Sarah Glass discusses her experiences navigating identity within Orthodox Jewish communities, the stigma surrounding mental health, and the impact of family history on personal growth. She shares insights on feeling alone in relationships, the dynamics with her ex-partners, and the joy of newfound freedom in her life. The discussion highlights the complexities of self-discovery and the importance of community support. Make sure to give this episode a listen!

Recommendations From This Episode: 

Unorthodox: The Scandalous Rejection of My Hasidic Roots by Deborah Feldman

Unorthodox - Netflix

My Unorthodox Life

Escape by Carolyn Jessop 

Follow Dr. Sara Glass: @drsaraglass 

Follow Carly: @carlyjmontag

Follow Emily: @thefunnywalsh

Follow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod

Please rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! 

Email us: [email protected]

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week we are joined by Ashley Herring Blake! Ashley Herring Blake is an award-winning author and teacher. She loves coffee, cats, melancholy songs, and happy books. She is the author of six novels for young adult and middle grade readers, as well as the Bright Falls adults romance novels and the holiday romance, Make the Season Bright. She lives on a very tiny island off the coast of Georgia with her family.

In this conversation, Ashley Herring Blake shares her journey from a musical background to becoming a successful author. She discusses her daily writing routine, the tools she uses, and how her commitment to writing for queer youth. The conversation also touches on family dynamics and the importance of representation in literature. In this conversation, Ashley shares her journey of navigating faith, identity, and the complexities of being a queer woman in a conservative environment. She discusses her experiences with religious trauma, the impact of personal loss on her beliefs, and the challenges of coming out. Ashley emphasizes the importance of representation in literature, particularly for queer individuals, and her desire to write stories that reflect both struggles and joys. Give this episode a listen!

Recommendations From This Episode: 

Happiest Season

Enigma Variations

Follow Ashley Herring Blake: @ashleyhblake

Follow Carly: @carlyjmontag

Follow Emily: @thefunnywalsh

Follow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod

Please rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! 

Email us: [email protected]

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week we are joined by Ruth Chan! Ruth Chan is an illustrator/author of comics and children’s books. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, Cup of Jo, and with publishers HarperCollins, Macmillan, Simon & Schuster, Disney-Hyperion, and Abrams. Prior to illustrating full time, she spent a decade working with youth and families in underserved communities. UPROOTED is her first graphic novel. She is a proud Canadian and lives and works in NYC.

In this engaging conversation, Ruth discusses her experiences as a new mother, the challenges of balancing work and parenting, and the journey of creating her graphic novel 'Uprooted.' She reflects on family dynamics, cultural identity, and the importance of storytelling in understanding one's heritage. She discusses her journey moving from Canada to China, the challenges of finding a sense of belonging, and her career in education and illustration. You don’t want to miss our discussion about the impact of AI on the illustration industry. Give this episode a listen!.

Recommendations From This Episode:

Where the Sidewalk Ends

Running With Scissors 

Follow Ruth Chan: @ohtruth

Follow Carly: @carlyjmontag

Follow Emily: @thefunnywalsh

Follow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod

Please rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! 

Email us: [email protected]

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week we bring you part II of our special episode of Alone at Lunch. Normally, we bring you discussions of feeling like the odd one out with comedians, authors, content creators, and more individuals of whom you’ve heard and can follow their careers. This episode, we decided to switch things up and present an anonymous crazy story told first hand by the person who lived it. 

The individual in this episode, who chose to be known as “Trip,” continues where he left off, discussing getting home tohis sick mother, going to Burning Man, having social anxiety, being passionate about helping others, and so much more. 

It is important that we provide several trigger warnings including discussions of suicide and illegal immigration. This podcast and podcast network do not condone or support the actions discussed in this episode. However, we believe that stories deserve to be told, especially when they ring so true to that “Alone at Lunch” feeling. 

We will be continuing the anonymous stories special episodes, so if you have a story to tell or know someone who does, please email us! 

Recommendations From This Episode:

Life As A House

Therapy - Psychology Today

Volunteering 

Drive-Away Dolls

Follow Carly: @carlyjmontag

Follow Emily: @thefunnywalsh

Follow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod

Please rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! 

Email us: [email protected]

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week we are joined by Katie Novotny! Katie Novotny is a standup comedian who has been an official artist at Limestone Comedy Festival, Vail Comedy Festival, Amsterdam’s Boom Chicago Comedy Festival, HBO’s Women in Comedy Festival, and many more. She’s currently a co-host of Good Follow, a women’s sports show on the DraftKings network where she gets to bring her love of sports and comedy to one place. She trained at Second City and iO in improv and sketch comedy, produced two award-winning web series (Guilty and Wellness Check), and her pilot scripts have landed her as a semi-finalist in Slamdance and Screencraft. She's performed at Hollywood Fringe Festival and is commercially repped by BBR. She dreams of using her arthritic knees to become an influencer for Bengay.

In this conversation, Katie shares her journey through freelancing and comedy, physical injuries while performing comedy, her first paid feature, and the dynamics of adjusting her comedy set for different audiences. The conversation also touches on themes of anxiety regarding the future and reflections on relationships, both personal and professional, as well as growing up in Naperville, Chicago. In this engaging conversation, the speakers explore the nuances of creativity in comedy, the journey of finding acceptance within the comedy community, and the personal experience of dining alone. The discussion highlights the importance of self-acceptance and the joy of enjoying one's own company while navigating the complexities of life and comedy.

Recommendations From This Episode: 

Waiting For Guffman

Little Giants

Follow Katie: @kathnovotny

Follow Carly: @carlyjmontag

Follow Emily: @thefunnywalsh

Follow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod

Please rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! 

Email us: [email protected]

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.