Read The Damn Book

Michelle Glogovac
  • 4.9 (85)
  • Books
  • Updated Weekly

Read The Damn Book™ is the no-fluff spin-off of the Webby-nominated My Simplified Life podcast. Created for people who believe books and stories can change lives, not just fill shelves. Born out of a deep love for storytelling, and a serious frustration with performative book culture, this show puts the spotlight back where it belongs: on the authors and the stories that matter. Host Michelle Glogovac, THE Podcast Matchmaker®, author, and creator of the Podcast Book Tour™, goes beyond blurbs and bestseller lists to explore how stories shape us, challenge us, and connect us. Expect unfiltered conversations, sharp takes, and honest dialogue. No fake reading. No fluff. Just real people, real stories, and really damn good books. Because here, we don’t just collect books. We read them. And when you Read The Damn Book, you discover that every story has the power to shift perspectives, spark change, and maybe even transform the world. New episodes drop weekly. Welcome to Read The Damn Book™—where the host actually reads the book before the interview. Learn more about Michelle at michelleglogovac.com and The MLG Collective® at themlgcollective.com. Michelle is also the host of Beyond The Campaign podcast and co-host of BURNT.

  1. Sep 29

    Murder At The Movies with Alicia Malone

    In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with television host, film historian, and author Alicia Malone to discuss her cozy mystery novel, Murder at the Movies. Alicia shares her passion for classic films, her journey from television host to novelist, and the inspiration behind her transition into fiction writing. The conversation explores the intersection of film history and storytelling, the charm of small-town life, and the creative process of crafting a cozy mystery. Whether you're a fan of classic cinema, mystery novels, or behind-the-scenes insights into the writing process, this episode offers a closer look at Alicia Malone's literary debut and the stories that inspire her. What We're Talking About... Alicia Malone’s transition from television host to novelist and authorThe influence of classic movies and Hollywood on Alicia Malone’s writingThe inspiration and creative process behind Murder at the MoviesWriting a cozy mystery set around a small-town movie theaterThe role of independent and small-town theaters in building communityResearching film history for fiction and storytellingHitchcock’s influence and the legacy of classic Hollywood starsThe importance of preserving film history and classic cinemaBalancing a creative career, personal life, and writing ambitions Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Alicia Malone and her new book 02:05 Alicia Malone's background and love for classic films 05:26 Inspiration behind writing Murder at the Movies 11:08 Setting up for the second book and future plans 16:20 The magic of watching classic films today 20:21 Research process for film scripts at TCM 26:22 The importance of small-town theaters and community 30:37 Personal influences and family relationships in the book 31:38 Closing thoughts and where to find Alicia Malone Links Mentioned Alicia Malone’s website: http://aliciamalone.com

    Murder At The Movies with Alicia Malone

  2. Sep 22

    American Nightmare with Kelly McWilliams

    In this episode of Read the Damn Book, Kelly McWilliams discusses her powerful historical novel American Nightmare, a compelling story that explores the history of lynching, racial injustice, and civil rights activism in America. Inspired by real historical events and figures, including civil rights activist Walter White, the book examines the impact of racial violence and the ongoing struggle for justice and equality. Kelly shares the inspiration behind the novel and discusses why confronting difficult chapters of American history is essential to understanding the present, fostering meaningful change, and empowering future generations. What We're Talking About... Walter White’s undercover work investigating and fighting lynching and racial violenceThe historical and modern connections between racial injustice and systemic racismThe NAACP’s role in civil rights activism, anti-lynching efforts, and organizing strategiesThe importance of confronting difficult and uncomfortable truths in American historyKelly McWilliams’ approach to blending historical fiction with horror and supernatural elementsThe importance of representation and stories of wealth, power, and resilience in Black communitiesThe historical and ongoing influence of hate groups, including the Ku Klux Klan and Proud BoysThe courage, resilience, and activism of civil rights leaders like Walter WhiteThe role of education and historical awareness in social justice and civil rights movementsKelly McWilliams’ personal journey, inspiration, and creative process behind American Nightmare Chapters 00:00 — Meet Kelly McWilliams and American Nightmare 01:05 — The Real-Life Walter White 04:43 — Investigating Lynching at Great Personal Risk 07:49 — Why We Must Get Uncomfortable 12:37 — The NAACP’s Strategy of Resistance 23:13 — Writing a Hero Who Fights from Within 29:01 — Gloria Bell, Bishop, and the Humanity Behind the History Links Mentioned Order your copy of American Nightmare: https://calendly.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.penguinrandomhouse.com%2Fbooks%2F795671%2Famerican-nightmare-by-kelly-mcwilliams%2F&user_uuid=da80a4a6-14ef-4180-9551-8081e29a9c36&stage=1&hmac=77b1a4515f507b3472da74d2f4166e6f78994865d1ed424292c89028d7e1a9a5

    American Nightmare with Kelly McWilliams

  3. Sep 15

    The Power of No with Anna Holmes

    In this episode of Read the Damn Book, Michelle Glogovac sits down with Anna Holmes, author of The Power of No, to explore the importance of saying no, setting boundaries, and reclaiming your time and energy. Anna shares the inspiration and personal journey behind her book, along with insights into how gender socialization can make it difficult for women to say no and prioritize their own needs. They discuss women’s empowerment, personal boundaries, self-advocacy, and practical ways to become more comfortable with saying no at any age. Whether you're learning to set healthier boundaries or looking to feel more confident advocating for yourself, this conversation offers thoughtful advice on the power of saying no. What We're Talking About... The power of saying no as a form of boundary-setting and self-empowermentHow women are socialized from childhood to say yes and prioritize othersThe evolution of The Power of No from an academic concept to accessible storytellingHow intuition can guide decision-making and help with setting healthy boundariesThe impact of media representation on women’s self-perception and confidenceHow age and life experience can make it easier to embrace the power of noThe connection between power, gender, and women’s ability to say noAnna Holmes’ personal stories and insights from her career and life experiencesHow childhood experiences can influence adult relationships, boundaries, and people-pleasingPractical advice for parents and women on building confidence, setting boundaries, and empowering others Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest Anna Holmes 02:00 Anna Holmes' background and career journey 04:01 The significance of saying no and its celebration 06:01 Childhood socialization and the early lessons of no 08:01 The role of media and representation in women's boundaries 09:59 Personal stories and experiences with boundary-setting 11:46 The evolution of the book and its core message 14:00 The importance of intuition and self-trust in saying no 16:00 The impact of age, experience, and confidence in boundary-setting 17:54 Practical advice for parents and women to empower themselves 19:56 The influence of media, culture, and societal expectations 21:56 Future ideas: children's edition and early boundary education 24:03 Closing thoughts and encouragement to embrace the power of no Links Mentioned Anna Holmes's website: http://www.annaholmes.com Anna Holmes's Instagram: https://instagram.com/annaholmes Order your copy of The Power of No: https://bookshop.org/a/99223/9780593444573

    The Power of No with Anna Holmes

  4. Sep 8

    Andromeda Diaz & The Reasonable Doubt with Emily Galvin Almanza

    In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac interviews Emily Galvin Almanza, a former public defender and author of the children’s mystery novel Andromeda Diaz and the Reasonable Doubt. Emily shares her journey from practicing law as a public defender to becoming a published author and discusses how her legal career inspired her writing. The conversation explores justice, legal rights, the criminal justice system, and the importance of teaching children about the law. Emily explains how Andromeda Diaz and the Reasonable Doubt empowers young readers to understand their rights, ask questions, and think critically about the legal system while enjoying an engaging mystery story. This episode offers a fascinating look at children’s literature, legal education, social justice, and the power of storytelling to educate and empower young readers. What We're Talking About... Emily Galvin Almanza’s journey from public defender to children’s book authorThe inspiration behind Andromeda Diaz and the Reasonable DoubtTeaching children about legal rights, justice, and the legal systemRepresentation of Bolivian culture and identity in children’s literatureThe role of public defenders in community empowerment and social justiceAddressing systemic issues within the juvenile justice systemThe importance and impact of early legal education for childrenRaising awareness about juvenile detention and youth justiceWhat’s next for the Andromeda Diaz book series Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Emily Galvin Almanza and her work 01:20 Emily's background as a public defender 03:10 Synopsis of Andromeda Diaz and the Reasonable Doubt 05:11 Legal issues faced by children and systemic challenges 08:21 Teaching children their legal rights and powers 14:43 Real-life cases and holistic defense approach 18:51 Origin of the character Andromeda and cultural influences 28:03 Next book in the series and raising the stakes 30:45 Representation of juvenile detention and systemic change 31:13 Where to find Emily and her books Links Mentioned Emily Galvin Almanza's website: https://www.emilygalvinalmanza.com Order your copy of Andromeda Diaz and the Reasonable Doubt: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/816163/andromeda-diaz-and-the-reasonable-doubt-by-emily-galvin-almanza/ Emily Galvin Almanza's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/galvinalmanza/

    Andromeda Diaz & The Reasonable Doubt with Emily Galvin Almanza

  5. Sep 1

    The Fire In The Heart Of The City with David Conrad-Perez

    In this episode of Read the Damn Book, Michelle Glogovac interviews David Conrad Perez about his new book, Fire in the Heart of the City. They explore the history of New York City through the lens of the tragic Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire, examining its lasting impact on labor rights, workplace safety, philanthropy, and social reform. Perez shares the historical inspiration behind his work and discusses how this pivotal moment continues to shape conversations about workers, inequality, and the responsibility of communities to create meaningful change. What We're Talking About... The history and lasting impact of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory FireThe rise of modern philanthropy and charitable giving in New York CityHow media manipulation and public relations shape public perceptionThe influence of wealthy elites and philanthropy on social policyThe contributions of immigrant women to the labor movement and workers’ rightsThe evolution of labor unions, workers’ rights, and social activism in America Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:04 Overview of the Book and Its Significance 03:29 The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire: What Happened 04:55 The Aftermath and Public Reaction to the Fire 06:20 The Rise of Philanthropy and Its Complexities 07:02 The Connection to New York Times and Media 12:43 Why the Author Chose to Tell This Story 14:51 Research Process and Archival Work 24:23 Lessons and Legacy of the Fire and Social Movements 29:10 Final Thoughts and Call to Action Links Mentioned David Conrad-Perez's website: www.davidconradperez.com

    The Fire In The Heart Of The City with David Conrad-Perez

  6. Aug 18

    Full Throttle with J.K. MacLaren

    In this episode of Read the Damn Book, author J.K. MacLaren discusses her debut novel Full Throttle, a steamy Formula One sports romance blending high-octane racing with amorous tension. She talks about her writing process and research into the F1 world, and dives into the novel's themes of family, feminism, and the balance of masculinity and femininity in modern romance. What We're Talking About... Writing "Full Throttle": J.K. MacLaren's process for crafting a debut Formula One sports romance novelF1 Racing Research: Behind-the-scenes research into motorsport details and authenticity in racing fictionFamily & Gender Roles: Exploring family dynamics and gender expectations in modern romancePersonal & Cultural Inspiration: How J.K. MacLaren's background shaped the novel's voice and storyFeminism & Masculinity: Balancing feminist themes with representations of masculinity in romance writing Chapters 0:00 Welcome to Full Throttle 1:20 Falling for Formula One 2:25 Writing a Racing Novel Without Being a Racer 6:36 Shakespeare, Family, and Easter Eggs 9:42 Family Pressure and Opposites Attract 18:18 Cowboy Boots and Feminine Power 27:49 What’s Next for the Series Links Mentioned J.K. MacLaren's website: https://jkmaclaren.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jkmaclaren Order your copy of Full Throttle: https://bookshop.org/a/99223/9798217095476

    Full Throttle with J.K. MacLaren

  7. Aug 11

    Hot Girl Murder Club with Ashley Winstead

    In this episode of Read the Damn Book, author Ashley Winstead returns to the podcast to talk with Michelle about her latest thriller, Hot Girl Murder Club. Ashley shares insights into her writing process, the research behind her books, and what it’s like to write across multiple genres. She also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the publishing industry, discusses her evolution as a multi-genre author, and shares practical research and writing tips for aspiring writers. Whether you’re a fan of psychological thrillers, mystery novels, or Ashley Winstead’s work, this conversation offers a fascinating look at the craft and business of writing. What We're Talking About... The inspiration behind Ashley Winstead’s Hot Girl Murder Club and its central themesCrime research, police procedural details, and writing realistic thriller scenesThe challenges and creative benefits of writing across multiple genresAshley Winstead’s insights into the publishing industry, book trends, and market preferencesFeminism, social issues, and cultural commentary in contemporary thriller and mystery fiction Chapters 00:00 Ashley Winstead Instroduction 01:03 Overview of Hot Girl Murder Club 02:26 The Origin and Themes of the Book 04:02 Market Trends and Genre Preferences 08:01 Writing with Escapism and Social Commentary 12:02 Research Process for Crime and Police Details 27:42 Character Development and Surprises 34:32 Future Projects and Genre Exploration Links Mentioned Ashley Winstead's website: https://www.ashleywinstead.com

    Hot Girl Murder Club with Ashley Winstead

  8. Aug 4

    The Lake Club with Lina Patton

    In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac welcomes debut author Lina Patton to discuss her novel The Lake Club. Lina shares the inspiration behind her first book, how living abroad shaped her perspective as a writer, and the role that travel and personal experiences played in crafting the novel's setting and characters. The conversation explores Lina's creative process, from developing compelling, emotionally resonant characters to balancing authentic settings with fictional storytelling. She also offers an honest look at the publishing journey as a debut author, the challenges of bringing a first novel to life, and the lessons she learned along the way. What We're Talking About... Lina Patton's journey to writing her debut novel, The Lake ClubHow living in Kosovo inspired her storytelling and creative perspectiveChoosing authentic character names and crafting immersive fictional settingsThe six-year journey of writing, revising, and publishing a debut novelExploring themes of home, belonging, friendship, and social dynamics in contemporary fictionWeaving personal experiences and real-life inspiration into fictional storiesBehind the scenes of the novel writing, editing, and publishing processHow publishing trends and market timing influence book deals and releasesLina Patton's creative hobbies, including doodling, stationery, and artistic inspiration Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Lina Patton and The Lake Club 04:02 Making up characters based on real life 08:55 The Kosovo connection and personal experiences 10:25 Incorporating hockey into the story 12:37 Cover design and visual details 16:23 Sponsorship message and agency 26:17 Surprise plot twist and reader reactions 30:37 Where to find Lina and her book Links Mentioned Lina Patton's website: www.linapatton.com

    The Lake Club with Lina Patton
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4.9
out of 5
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About

Read The Damn Book™ is the no-fluff spin-off of the Webby-nominated My Simplified Life podcast. Created for people who believe books and stories can change lives, not just fill shelves. Born out of a deep love for storytelling, and a serious frustration with performative book culture, this show puts the spotlight back where it belongs: on the authors and the stories that matter. Host Michelle Glogovac, THE Podcast Matchmaker®, author, and creator of the Podcast Book Tour™, goes beyond blurbs and bestseller lists to explore how stories shape us, challenge us, and connect us. Expect unfiltered conversations, sharp takes, and honest dialogue. No fake reading. No fluff. Just real people, real stories, and really damn good books. Because here, we don’t just collect books. We read them. And when you Read The Damn Book, you discover that every story has the power to shift perspectives, spark change, and maybe even transform the world. New episodes drop weekly. Welcome to Read The Damn Book™—where the host actually reads the book before the interview. Learn more about Michelle at michelleglogovac.com and The MLG Collective® at themlgcollective.com. Michelle is also the host of Beyond The Campaign podcast and co-host of BURNT.

Information

  • Creator
    Michelle Glogovac
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    398
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Show Website
    Read The Damn Book

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