Spring has officially sprung and so have the May 2025 book releases! Joe is joined by colleague and fellow book lover Rachel to share their top picks for this May's freshest reads. From swoony romances and thrilling mysteries to heartfelt queer YA and buzzy debuts, they’ve got a little something for every reader. Plus, stick around for Joe’s rapid-fire lightning round of even more May titles you won’t want to miss! 

Whether you're loading up your Libby shelf or just need help picking your next favorite read, we've got you covered with big book energy and plenty of laughs along the way. 🌸📚 

Want to watch the video version of our show? Watch now on the Libby App YouTube channel! 

Titles mentioned in this episode:  

Rachel’s Picks:  

Joe’s Picks: 

Shoutouts section: 

Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. 

Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! 

We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Introducing Deepak Chopra: How to Ask AI The RIGHT Questions To Grow, Heal, and Live a More Fulfilled Life from On Purpose with Jay Shetty.

Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

Do you ever feel like you're just going through the motions?

Do you ever feel lonely even when you're around people?

Today, Jay welcomes back the legendary Deepak Chopra after six years, to discuss the unexpected intersection of spirituality and artificial intelligence. Together they unpack the beautiful blend of ancient wisdom and cutting-edge innovation.

Jay reflects on his first meeting with Deepak and how their bond has evolved over the years. The conversation quickly flows into one of the most fascinating questions of our time: Can AI actually support our spiritual growth, rather than distract from it? Deepak shares his insights on the mysteries of the universe, the unseen forces that shape our reality, and why he believes consciousness, not matter, is the foundation of everything.

Jay and Deepak break down the fears surrounding AI, from misinformation to war, and why it’s so important for us to grow spiritually alongside our technology. They explore how storytelling, creativity, and love are deeply human qualities that no machine can replicate, and how we can use these gifts to shape a better, more compassionate world.

In this interview, you'll learn:

How to Ask AI Better Questions to Unlock Wisdom

How to Use Technology to Support Emotional and Physical Healing

How to Find Purpose Through the Art of Storytelling

How to Train AI to Reflect Inclusivity and Diversity

How to Embrace Consciousness as the Foundation of Reality

How to Create a Sacred Relationship with Technology

Deepak reminds us that the answers we’re looking for often begin with a better question. And with the right mindset, even the most advanced technology can become a tool for inner transformation and collective healing.

With Love and Gratitude,

Jay Shetty

Join over 750,000 people to receive my most transformative wisdom directly in your inbox every single week with my free newsletter. Subscribe here. 

Join Jay for his first ever, On Purpose Live Tour! Tickets are on sale now. Hope to see you there! 

What We Discuss:

00:00 Intro

01:41 What If the Universe Is Just a Giant Digital Simulation?

12:36 How to Train AI to Unlock Ancient and Hidden Knowledge

13:39 Blending AI and Spirituality to Understand Consciousness

18:23 Could AI Really Lead to Human Extinction?

22:34 What’s Actually Holding Humanity Back From Progress?

23:37 How the Human Brain Transformed Over Time

26:11 The 2 Things That Set Humans Apart From All Other Species

27:16 Can Technology Lead Us to True Peace and Prosperity?

28:10 Will AI Replace Our Jobs or Unlock Human Creativity?

30:46 Do You Think AI Can Ever Have a Soul?

31:45 The Gender and Racial Bias Hidden in AI Systems

32:33 How to Build More Inclusive and Equitable AI Models

33:32 Why a Shared Vision Can Solve Any Problem We Face

36:13 Would You Trust AI to Know You Personally?

36:57 How You can Use AI to Get Better Sleep

37:29 Can AI Actually Give You Good Relationship Advice?

38:07 How AI Can Help You Find and Nurture Love

38:29 Why Personal Growth Solutions Should Never Be Generic

39:41 Your DNA Holds the Footprints of Human History

42:33 Rethinking the Big Bang: What Science Still Can’t Explain

44:31 Is Everything You See Just a Projection?

47:48 Why Fear of the Unknown Limits Our Growth

48:52 Want Better Answers? Ask Better Questions

51:41 The True Secret to Longevity Isn’t What You Think

54:30 How Your Brain Turns Experience Into Reality

55:08 Why Consciousness Is Still Life’s Greatest Mystery

56:28 The First Question You Should Always Ask AI

58:38 How ChatGPT Can Spark Deeper, More Intelligent Questions

Episode Resources:

Deepak Chopra | Website

Deepak Chopra | Instagram 

Deepak Chopra | TikTok 

Deepak Chopra | Facebook

Deepak Chopra | YouTube

Deepak Chopra | X

Digital Dharma: How AI Can Elevate Spiritual Intelligence and Personal Well-Being

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

April is here, and with it comes a fresh lineup of must-read new books! Join Joe and Madison as they dive into the most exciting releases of the month. From long-awaited sequels to unexpected gems, our TBRs are taking us on quite the journey—just like the changing season!

Whether you're in the mood for something light and breezy or deep and thought-provoking, we've got the perfect springtime read for you. Grab a cozy spot in the sunshine and let’s talk books! 🌿📖✨ 

You can follow Madison's Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/simon.says.read/

Titles mentioned in this episode: 

Madison’s Picks: 

Joe’s Picks: 

Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. 

Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! 

We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Introducing Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco EXCLUSIVE: Their Love Story Like You’ve Never Heard Before from On Purpose with Jay Shetty.

Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

How did Selena and Benny first meet?

What makes their love story unique?

On today’s episode of On Purpose, Jay sits down with global superstar Selena Gomez and acclaimed music producer Benny Blanco where they share their love story like they never have before. They open up about their personal journey—one that didn’t start with an immediate spark.

Their story is full of humor, mixed signals, and that moment when it all clicked. Benny once thought Selena didn’t like him, while Selena, protecting her heart, kept her distance. But as their friendship grew, they built something real—a relationship rooted in trust, respect, open communication, and always supporting each other. Their story is a true testament that love unfolds when the timing is right.

Together, Jay, Selena, and Benny reflect on the power of embracing love, letting go of past fears, and choosing a partner who helps you grow. Their journey serves as a beautiful reminder that love often comes when you least expect it—but when it’s right, you’ll know.

In this interview, you'll learn:

How to Build a Strong Friendship Before Dating

How to Communicate Openly in a Relationship

How to Maintain Trust in a Long-Distance Relationship

How to Support Your Partner’s Emotional Needs

How to Balance a Busy Career with a Healthy Relationship

Selena and Benny’s story reminds us that true love isn’t defined by grand gestures or perfection—it’s about finding someone who sees you for who you are, supports you through life’s challenges, and makes even the simplest moments feel special.

With Love and Gratitude,

Jay Shetty

Join over 750,000 people to receive my most transformative wisdom directly in your inbox every single week with my free newsletter. Subscribe here.

Join Jay for his first ever, On Purpose Live Tour! Tickets are on sale now. Hope to see you there!

What We Discuss:

00:00 Intro

01:10 Male Friendships Can Be Challenging

03:01 First Meeting & Deep Conversations

08:48 How It All Started

16:32 Opening Up to Love Again

18:57 It All Happens for a Reason

21:08 Finding Genuine Love

27:13 Be Kind to Yourself

33:37 Don’t Let Negativity Dictate Your Life

37:55 Cultivating Relationships with Trust

48:22 This is How Emotionally Mature Relationships Work      

57:08 The Proposal 

01:05:29 Wedding Planning

01:06:26 Recording an Album Together

01:13:17 Future Family Plans

01:18:03 Selena and Benny on Fun Questions

Episode Resources:

Selena Gomez | Website

Selena Gomez | Facebook

Selena Gomez | Twitter

Selena Gomez | Instagram

Selena Gomez | YouTube

Benny Blanco | TikTok

Benny Blanco | Instagram

Benny Blanco | YouTube

Benny Blanco | Twitter

Benny Blanco | Facebook

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

In this episode, Joe is joined by Nahomy to recommend books for fans of The Hunger Games, whether you're eagerly awaiting Sunrise on the Reaping or need more dystopian reads after devouring it.

From high-stakes competitions and oppressive regimes to survival in broken worlds, these books will keep you on the edge of your seat. Tune in for thrilling recommendations featuring deadly trials, futuristic rebellions, twisted social experiments, and resilient heroes fighting for freedom.

Nahomy’s Titles: 

Joe’s Titles: 

Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. 

Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! 

We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/! 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Introducing ⁠Lewis Howes: The Scarcity Belief That’s Blocking You from Making Money & How to Feel Rich Even When You’re Broke from On Purpose with Jay Shetty.

Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

Have you ever avoided looking at your finances?

If money were a person, how would you describe your relationship with it?

Today, Jay welcomes back his long time friend, Lewis Howes, a New York Times bestselling author, entrepreneur, keynote speaker, and former professional athlete. He is the host of The School of Greatness podcast, one of the top-ranked business and self-development shows in the world, where he interviews some of the most influential leaders in business, wellness, and personal growth.

The conversation highlights key principles for transforming one's financial mindset, including the power of awareness, gratitude, and generosity. Jay and Lewis examine how early experiences with money influence current financial behaviors and emphasize the importance of developing a mindset of abundance rather than scarcity. By recognizing and reshaping these beliefs, financial opportunities can be approached with clarity and confidence.

Lewis emphasizes on the distinction between making money easy and chasing easy money. While many seek quick financial success, they explore the pitfalls of short-term thinking and the long-term benefits of building sustainable wealth through skill development, strategic planning, and emotional resilience. The concept of mapping out financial goals is introduced as a way to create structure and direction in money management.

In this interview, you'll learn:

How to Identify and Change Your Money Beliefs

How to Develop Awareness Around Your Financial Habits

How to Shift from a Scarcity Mindset to an Abundance Mindset

How to Invest in Yourself to Build Long-Term Financial Success

How to Create a Clear Financial Plan for Stability and Growth

How to Use Energy, Passion, and Curiosity as Valuable Currency

Financial freedom isn’t just about earning more—it’s about breaking free from limiting beliefs, embracing abundance, and making intentional choices that align with long-term success. 

With Love and Gratitude,

Jay Shetty

Join over 750,000 people to receive my most transformative wisdom directly in your inbox every single week with my free newsletter. Subscribe here.

Join Jay for his first ever, On Purpose Live Tour! Tickets are on sale now. Hope to see you there!

What We Discuss:

00:00 Intro

01:06 Awareness Around Money and Finances

06:23 How to Get Out of Debt

09:44 How to Attract Financial Abundance

14:28 Rewire Your Brain to Earn More Money

16:22 The Mindset Habit to Unlock Abundance

20:11 Create an Opportunity to Showcase Your Value

27:08 3 Skills to Create Valuable Connection

33:41 Building a Foundation for Your Dream Career

35:44 Can You Manifest Money?

41:01 What’s Your Relationship with Money?

48:32 Generosity Attracts Abundance

53:10 Lessons from Quick and Easy Money

57:55 Invest in Your Self Growth

01:00:51 Money Cant Solve All Problems

Episode Resources:

Lewis Howes | Website

Lewis Howes | TikTok

Lewis Howes | Instagram 

Lewis Howes | Youtube

Lewis Howes | Facebook 

Lewis Howes | LinkedIn

Lewis Howes | X

Make Money Easy: Create Financial Freedom and Live a Richer Life

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

Spring is in the air, and so are a fresh batch of must-read books! In this episode, Joe is joined by Amy Clark from MomAdvice.com to dive into the most exciting new releases hitting shelves in March 2025.

From highly anticipated fiction to captivating nonfiction, they’re sharing the books they can’t wait to read this month. Whether you’re looking for your next page-turner or adding to your never-ending TBR, this episode has something for every book lover.

Tune in and get ready to update your reading list! 📚✨

Make sure you follow Amy on Instagram and check out the Book Gang podcast! 

Title’s mentioned in this episode: 

Amy’s Titles: 

Joe’s Titles: 

Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace.

Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!

We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Introducing Jillian Turecki: 3 Biggest Dating Mistakes You’re Making (Stop Chasing Love That’s Not For You) from On Purpose with Jay Shetty.

Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

What do you think is the biggest dating mistake people make?

Have you ever chased someone who wasn’t right for you?

In today’s episode, Jay welcomes relationship coach, teacher, and podcast host Jillian Turecki to break down the biggest dating mistakes people make. They dive into why relying too much on dating apps can lead to burnout, how the fear of rejection holds you back, and why being single is often better than staying in the wrong relationship.

Jillian unpacks why we’re drawn to people who don’t want us while ignoring those who do. She explains how past relationship patterns, toxic dynamics, and a false sense of intimacy create cycles that keep us stuck. They also explore the fine line between honesty and oversharing, how to repair trust after dishonesty, and self-reflection exercises to heal after a breakup.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

The 3 biggest dating mistakes and how to fix them.

Why relying on dating apps alone can hurt your love life.

How the fear of rejection and loneliness affect attraction.

Why do we chase people who ignore us?

When honesty becomes oversharing in relationships.

How to repair trust and reflect after a breakup.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in dating or struggled with attraction patterns, this episode will help you break unhealthy cycles and make better choices in love.

With Love and Gratitude,

Jay Shetty.

Join over 750,000 people to receive my most transformative wisdom directly in your inbox every single week with my free newsletter. Subscribe here.

What We Discuss: 

00:00 Intro 

02:03 Dating: 3 Biggest Mistakes

05:39 The Fear Of Rejection 

09:47 Choice In Love

13:36 The Fear Of Being Alone

14:41 The Attraction Paradox

21:37 It All Begins With You

32:00 Find Other Things Attractive

42:48 Telling The Truth Vs Being Too Honest

46:45 Repair Not Being Truthful In A Relationship

56:30 Choice In Love 2

01:01:10 It's All In Your Head

01:04:52 Reflect With Your Partner

01:09:14 Self Reflection Exercises After A Breakup

01:12:13 Jillian on Final Five

Episode Resources:

Jillian Turecki | It Begins with You: The 9 Hard Truths About Love That Will Change Your Life

Jillian Turecki | Linkedin

Jillian Turecki | Website

Jillian Turecki | YouTube

Jillian Turecki | Instagram

Jillian Turecki | Facebook

Jillian Turecki | Tiktok

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

Waiting for Scythe & Sparrow to hit your shelf? We’ve got you covered! In this episode, Joe is joined by his colleague Meghan to share a list of must-read romances that will keep you hooked while you wait.

These books capture the same vibes you love but each offers a unique journey of its own. Whether you’re craving heart-pounding twists, thought-provoking themes, or unforgettable characters, we’ve got the perfect recommendations to tide you over. Tune in and find your next great read!

If you’d like to watch the video of this episode, check out the Libby App YouTube channel!

Titles mentioned in today’s episode:

Meghan’s Titles:  

Joe’s Titles: 

Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace.

Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!

We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: https://plotthreadsshop.com/!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Introducing The 3 Things EVERY Human Wants with Esther Perel | The Oprah Podcast from The Oprah Podcast.

Follow the show: The Oprah Podcast

In this episode of The Oprah Podcast, presented by Ulta Beauty, world renowned relationship therapist Esther Perel offers her profound insight on modern romance, and what we can do to feel more alive in all our relationships – not just the romantic ones.

With wisdom gained as a therapist and from her hit podcast, Where Should We Begin? with Esther Perel, Esther offers frank sexual advice along with her thoughts on dealing with betrayal, life transitions and relational burn out. Couples and individuals will join via Zoom to hear Esther do what she does best: reveal the hidden truth beyond the stories we tell. She’ll also discuss her ingenious conversation-starter card game, “Where Should We Begin? A Game of Stories by Esther Perel.”

Thank you to our partners at Ulta Beauty. They want to help you celebrate all the relationships in your life - not just the romantic ones! Share a post, tag your bestie and @ULTABEAUTY and share why they’re so special to you! Ulta Beauty will help pay the joy forward with a chance to receive a ‘surprise and delight’ beauty experience. www.ulta.com

“Where Should We Begin? A Game of Stories by Esther Perel” is available on her website,

And Esther's books are available here: https://www.estherperel.com/books

Conflict to Connection: https://www.estherperel.com/courses/turning-conflict-into-connection 

Desire Bundle: https://www.estherperel.com/course-bundles/the-desire-bundle 

Follow Oprah Winfrey on Social:

Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@Oprah

https://www.instagram.com/oprah/

https://www.facebook.com/oprahwinfrey/

Listen to the full podcast:

https://open.spotify.com/show/0tEVrfNp92a7lbjDe6GMLI

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-oprah-podcast/id1782960381

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].