Read The Damn Book

In this episode of Beyond the Campaign, Lindsey Patrick Wright shares her inspiring journey from career librarian to Tennessee State Senate candidate. She discusses why public libraries are essential to strong communities, the power of grassroots activism, and her commitment to protecting human rights in a challenging political landscape. The conversation explores civic engagement, public service, and the importance of standing up for equitable policies that strengthen communities across Tennessee and beyond.

What We're Talking About...

• Lindsey Patrick Wright's journey from librarian to Tennessee State Senate candidate
• The vital role of public libraries in strengthening communities and protecting democracy
• The impact of book banning, censorship, and intellectual freedom in schools
• Grassroots campaigning strategies that increase voter engagement and civic participation
• How social media shapes political campaigns, public discourse, and elections
• Why community representation matters in state and local government
• Strategies for flipping political seats and building momentum in Tennessee elections
• How national political issues influence local races and voter priorities

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Lindsey Patrick Wright and her background

02:00 Lindsey's journey from theater to librarianship

03:52 The multifaceted role of public libraries

09:03 Community activism and fighting book bans

12:50 The rise of Moms for Liberty and their impact

16:11 Lindsay's personal story and coming out as LGBTQ+

19:50 Deciding to run for office and the low bar for candidates

26:00 Gerrymandering and the fight to flip Tennessee seats

28:59 Engaging young voters and grassroots efforts

33:01 The role of social media in modern campaigning

36:10 How to support Lindsey's campaign and get involved

Links Mentioned

Lindsey Patrick Wright's campaign website: https://www.lindseyfortn.com

Instagram: @‌lindseypatrickwright

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with bestselling author Rachel Beanland to discuss her historical novel, The Half Life. Set on the Italian island of La Maddalena during the 1970s, the conversation explores the realities of Navy life abroad, the complexities of secrecy and family dynamics, cultural immersion, and the impact of American expansionism. Rachel shares the extensive research behind the novel, her approach to crafting compelling historical fiction, and the real-life events that inspired the story. This episode is perfect for readers who love historical fiction, richly developed characters, and behind-the-scenes insights into the writing process.

What We're Talking About...

• Navy life in 1970s Italy and the unique dynamics of military families living overseas
• Researching historical fiction, including military history, Italian culture, and real-world events
• Cultural immersion, identity, and belonging while living abroad in a close-knit community
• Secrecy, trust, and relationships within military families and Navy communities
• The impact of American expansionism on local Italian communities and the historical context behind The Half Life

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Rachel Beanland and The Half Life

01:01 Setting and inspiration behind the story in La Maddalena

03:14 The US Navy presence in Italy and its impact on local communities

04:54 Character development and themes of identity and marriage

06:42 Secrecy and trust in military relationships

08:08 Research process for writing about nuclear submarines

10:48 Immersion into Italian culture and American military life

12:39 Balancing personal stories and historical accuracy

14:20 Early marriage and family dynamics in the story

18:09 Themes of autonomy and American expansionism

22:25 Women's healthcare and life on the island

26:30 Unique community traditions and daily life details

28:24 Upcoming projects and where to find Rachel Beanland

Links Mentioned

Rachel Beanland's website: http://www.rachelbeanland.com

Order your copy of The Half Life: https://bookshop.org/a/99223/9781668069134

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, Michelle Glogovac sits down with bestselling co-authors Lee Kelly and Jennifer Thorne to discuss their collaborative novel, The Midnight Show. They share how they developed their unique co-writing process, the evolution of their creative partnership, and the inspiration behind crafting a suspenseful story infused with humor, nostalgia, and pop culture. The conversation explores the realities of writing with a creative partner, balancing multiple perspectives, and navigating the publishing journey. Lee and Jennifer also offer valuable advice for aspiring authors, making this an insightful episode for readers, writers, and anyone fascinated by the art of collaborative storytelling.

What We're Talking About...

• Developing a successful co-writing process and how Lee Kelly and Jennifer Thorne's collaboration has evolved over time
• Exploring the influence of Saturday Night Live, comedy, and pop culture on the creation of The Midnight Show
• Navigating creative feedback, building trust, and overcoming the challenges of collaborative writing
• Behind-the-scenes insights into the rapid development and publishing timeline of The Midnight Show
• Using mixed media, dialogue, and innovative storytelling techniques to create an immersive reading experience
• Balancing solo writing careers with the demands and rewards of co-authoring novels
• Crafting engaging, fast-paced narratives that keep readers invested from beginning to end
• The importance of shared vision, communication, and creative partnership in successful collaborative fiction writing

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:12 The Co-Writing Journey

07:12 Building a Writing Community

10:04 The Creative Process and Synergy

13:04 Inspiration from SNL

16:12 Writing The Midnight Show

19:17 Surprising Endings and Reader Reactions

20:55 Character Development and Naming

21:45 Audiobook Experience and Performance

22:45 Mockumentary Concept and Adaptation

25:51 Upcoming Projects and New Directions

35:00 Validation and Support in Writing

36:20 Closing Thoughts and Social Media Connections

Links Mentioned

Lee Kelly's website: https://www.leekellyauthor.com

Jennifer Thorne's website: https://www.jenniferthorne.com

Order your copy of The Midnight Show: https://bookshop.org/a/99223/9798217086672

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with bestselling author Claire Swinarski to discuss her latest novel, The Supper Club Saints. Claire shares the inspiration behind the book, her experience writing both middle grade and adult fiction, and how Wisconsin's rich culture and traditions shape her storytelling. They also explore family dynamics, character development, the creative writing process, and what makes stories resonate with readers across generations.

What We're Talking About...

• Wisconsin culture and supper club traditions in contemporary fiction
• Writing middle grade vs. adult novels: Claire Swinarski's creative process
• Family secrets, generational relationships, and emotional storytelling
• The inspiration behind the "mommune" concept and modern motherhood
• Crafting authentic, character-driven realistic fiction

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Claire Swinarski

03:25 Exploring The Supper Club Saints

09:42 Understanding Character Depth and Backstories

13:59 The Art of Writing for Different Age Groups

19:12 The Inspiration Behind The Supper Club Saints

24:37 Balancing Multiple Writing Projects

Links Mentioned

Claire Swinarski's website: http://www.claireswinarski.com

CLaire Swinarski's Substack: http://www.claireswinarski.com/newsletter

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with bestselling author Ellen Baker to discuss her captivating novel, Summerland Cove. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Maine coast, the conversation explores family dynamics, long-buried secrets, mental health, healing, and the bonds that connect generations.

Ellen shares the inspiration behind Summerland Cove, her approach to crafting complex multi-generational characters, and the research and writing process that brought the story to life. Whether you're a fan of family sagas, women's fiction, or character-driven novels, this episode offers an inside look at the themes and storytelling techniques that make Summerland Cove such a compelling read.

Tune in to discover how Ellen Baker weaves together family secrets, emotional resilience, and the beauty of coastal Maine in a novel that explores what it means to truly come home.

What We're Talking About...

• Exploring family secrets, mental health, and healing in contemporary fiction

• How the Maine coast inspired the setting of Summerland Cove

• Crafting compelling multi-generational family stories

• Addressing mental health and other complex topics with authenticity and sensitivity

• Creating realistic characters, relationships, and immersive settings

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ellen Baker and Summerland Cove

04:12 Exploring Generational Dynamics and Identity

07:17 The Weight of Secrets and Mental Health

10:20 The Inspiration Behind Summerland Cove

13:43 Ellen Baker's Journey as a Writer

16:41 Themes of Family and Relationships

19:30 The Role of Setting in Storytelling

22:26 Character Development and Complexity

25:41 Looking Ahead: Future Projects

Links Mentioned

Ellen Baker's website: www.ellenbakernovels.com

Ellen Baker's Instagram: @ellenbakernovels

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle : sits down with author and journalist Elizabeth Svoboda to discuss her new book, The Art of Pacing. They explore the power of pacing in everyday life and how managing energy, embracing rest, and creating intentional pauses can improve well-being, support activism, and help prevent burnout. Elizabeth shares practical strategies, including breath work and sustainable productivity techniques, that empower individuals to make meaningful contributions without sacrificing their mental and physical health. Tune in for an insightful conversation about balance, resilience, and the art of thriving in a fast-paced world.

What We're Talking About...

• The importance of pacing for sustainable activism, personal growth, and long-term well-being
• Breath work techniques and heart rate variability strategies for stress management and resilience
• The power of meaningful connections and the "brief candles" philosophy for creating lasting impact
• Why pauses, retreats, and intentional rest are essential tools for self-care and burnout prevention
• How delegation, community support, and strong networks help activists avoid burnout and sustain change

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

04:14 The Science of Giving and Activism

07:03 Pacing in Activism and Personal Well-being

10:23 Breath Work and Mindfulness Practices

13:08 The Power of “Brief Candle Moments”

25:21 The Journey of Scientific Writing and Future Perspectives

35:31 Pacing and Burnout

36:01 The Importance of Breathing Techniques

Links Mentioned

Elizabeth Svoboda's website: www.Elizabethsvoboda.com

Elizabeth Svoboda's newsletter: elizabeth-svoboda.beehiiv.com

Order your copy of The Art of Pacing: https://bookshop.org/a/99223/9781668022412

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, bestselling author Amanda Eyre Ward discusses her latest novel, Arrivals and Departures, a moving story set in Greece that explores love, family, second chances, and mental health. Amanda shares the inspiration behind the novel, how travel influences her storytelling, and the research that shaped its emotional depth.

The conversation dives into the realities of mental illness, the impact of online scams and digital deception, and the complexities of family relationships. Amanda also offers an inside look at her writing process, character development, and the journey of bringing an internationally inspired novel to life.

Whether you're a fan of contemporary fiction, women's fiction, books set in Greece, or conversations about mental health and human connection, this episode offers valuable insights for readers and writers alike.

What We're Talking About...

• Amanda Eyre Ward's writing process, storytelling approach, and novel structure

• The inspiration behind Arrivals and Departures and Amanda's travel experiences in Greece

• Exploring themes of love, family relationships, and second chances in contemporary fiction

• Writing authentic portrayals of mental health and emotional resilience

• How setting and travel influence character development and narrative depth

• The role of family dynamics in shaping compelling fiction

• Behind-the-scenes insights into Amanda Eyre Ward's creative process and research

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Travel Inspirations

04:04 Living in Greece: A Personal Journey

07:12 Themes of Love and Family in Literature

10:18 Exploring Romance Scams and Online Relationships

13:17 Understanding Mental Health Through Fiction

19:14 Character Development and Personal Connections

22:23 Transitioning to TV Writing and New Challenges

25:28 Balancing Multiple Creative Projects

28:24 Conclusion and Future Endeavors

Links Mentioned

Order your copy of Arrivals and Departures: https://bookshop.org/a/99223/9780593500323

Amanda Eyre Ward's website: www.amandaward.com

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, author Emma Grey joins the show to discuss her powerful new novel, Start at the End. Emma shares the inspiration behind the story, exploring themes of grief, resilience, second chances, and the life-changing impact of asking "what if?"

During this heartfelt conversation, Emma opens up about her personal experiences with loss, the healing power of creativity, and the importance of strong support networks during life's most difficult moments. She also discusses how music influences her writing, offers a behind-the-scenes look at her creative process, and shares what's next in her journey as an author.

Whether you're a fan of contemporary fiction, emotional storytelling, or aspiring writers looking for insight into the publishing world, this episode delivers inspiration, hope, and practical wisdom about turning life's challenges into meaningful stories.

What We're Talking About...

• Exploring the themes of grief, loss, healing, and second chances in Start at the End
• How music, creativity, and storytelling can help process trauma and navigate life's most difficult moments
• Emma Grey's author journey, writing process, and the inspiration behind her emotionally resonant fiction
• Crafting authentic characters and emotionally impactful contemporary fiction

Chapters

00:00 Introducing Emma Grey and Start at the End

03:54 Exploring the Theme of Loss and 'What Ifs'

07:29 The Role of Music in Healing and Storytelling

10:46 The Joy of Camping and Vintage Vans

14:50 Dreams Realized: From Books to TV Adaptations

19:02 Resilience and the Journey of Healing

21:43 The Complexity of Life's Emotions

24:26 Character Development and the Editing Process

28:05 The Writing Process: Drafts and Discoveries

29:24 New Ideas and Future Projects

33:32 The Impact of Vulnerability in Writing

Links Mentioned

Order your copy of Start at the End: https://www.amazon.com/Start-at-End-Emma-Grey/dp/1968506012/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, bestselling author Kim Holden shares her inspiring journey from discovering her love of storytelling to becoming an internationally recognized author. Kim dives into the creative process behind her latest novel, Eye for an I, discussing how music, emotion, and personal experiences shape her unforgettable characters and stories.

The conversation explores Kim’s approach to self-publishing, her writing habits, and the powerful connection she’s built with readers around the world. She also opens up about balancing creativity with the business side of publishing, staying authentic as a writer, and finding inspiration in everyday life. Whether you’re an aspiring author, avid reader, or fan of contemporary fiction, this episode offers valuable insights into writing, publishing, and the impact of storytelling.

What We're Talking About...

• Kim Holden’s journey from aspiring writer to internationally bestselling author
• The inspiration behind Eye for an I and Kim Holden’s storytelling process
• How music influences character development, emotions, and scene creation in fiction writing
• Building a global fanbase with readers in Poland, the United States, and beyond
• Self-publishing strategies, indie author success, and worldwide book distribution
• Kim Holden’s writing habits, outlining techniques, and non-linear storytelling approach
• Behind-the-scenes insights into the contemporary fiction publishing industry
• Advice for aspiring authors on creativity, writing consistency, and connecting with readers
• The balance between artistic passion and the business side of being an author
• How emotional storytelling creates lasting reader connections

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Kim Holden

03:12 The Role of Music in Writing

07:11 The Journey of Becoming an Author

13:18 The Impact of Readers and Community

17:21 Tattoos and Personal Expression

21:30 Writing Process and Challenges

27:33 Future Aspirations and Closing Thoughts

32:29 Eye for an I and Its Themes

32:56 The Author's Journey and Inspiration

Links Mentioned

Website: kimholdenbooks

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimholdenauthor

Kim Holden's books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Kim-Holden/author/B00J88LUC2?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=351e0dd9-f757-4071-890a-9601fa923e66

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, author Sarah Damoff joins host Michelle to discuss her latest novel, The Burning Side. Together, they explore powerful themes of family dynamics, generational trauma, love, grief, and the lasting impact of personal history. Sarah shares the inspiration behind the novel, how her own life experiences shaped the story, and her approach to writing emotionally resonant multi-generational fiction. Listeners will also get an inside look at her creative process, character development, and the art of crafting deeply human stories that connect with readers long after the final page.

What We're Talking About...

• Themes of family, love, grief, and generational trauma in The Burning Side
• Sarah Damoff on the inspiration behind her emotionally layered literary fiction
• The writing process behind crafting compelling multi-generational family stories
• How personal experiences and real-life relationships shape authentic storytelling
• Why storytelling is a powerful tool for exploring human emotion and connection
• The role of fiction in uncovering deeper human truths and shared experiences
• Character development and creating emotionally resonant contemporary fiction
• Insights into writing literary fiction that connects deeply with readers

Chapters

00:00 Celebrating a New Release

04:06 Exploring The Burning Side

07:28 The Evolution of Love

11:30 Personal Inspirations Behind the Story

16:00 Transitioning from Social Work to Writing

19:45 The Art of Writing and Storytelling

22:04 The Writing Process and Drafting

24:26 Creating Authentic Characters

29:27 Addressing Foster Care in Literature

Links Mentioned

Order your copy of The Burning Side: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Burning-Side/Sarah-Damoff/9781668085011

Sara Damoff's website: https://www.sarahdamoff.com/