Read The Damn Book

Michelle Glogovac
  • 4.9 (86)
  • 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. Girl Gone Wild with Courtney Kocak

    5D AGO

    Girl Gone Wild with Courtney Kocak

    In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with writer Courtney Kocak to discuss her powerful memoir Girl Gone Wild. Courtney opens up about her personal journey through exploitation, identity, and healing, offering an unfiltered look at the challenges of navigating societal expectations and reclaiming her voice. Together, they explore themes of authenticity, vulnerability, and self-discovery, as well as the transformative power of sharing your story. What We're Talking About... Courtney's 15-year journey of writing a memoir and the challenges of long-term storytellingExploring themes of exploitation, misogyny, and societal pressure on womenThe role of authenticity and vulnerability in powerful memoir writingHealing, self-discovery, and reclaiming your voice through personal storytelling Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Courtney Kocak 04:07 The Journey of Writing a Memoir 07:07 Exploring Personal Experiences and Growth 13:13 Cultural Reflections on Misogyny and Exploitation 16:40 Navigating Relationships and Personal Choices 19:28 Facing Judgment and Embracing Authenticity 22:39 Finding Love and Support 25:18 The Importance of Therapy and Healing 28:41 Conclusion and Future Aspirations Links Mentioned Order your copy of Girl Gone Wild: https://bookshop.org/p/books/girl-gone-wild-courtney-kocak/f3c06a53692352f1?ean=9781949487541&next=t Courtney Kocak's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/courtneykocak/ Courtney Kocak's Substack: http://thebleeders.substack.com/welcome

    36 min
  2. Brian Reads with Brian Larson

    MAR 24

    Brian Reads with Brian Larson

    In this episode of Read the Damn Book, Brian Larson, author and host of Shelf Care Society, joins Michelle to discuss his journey to sobriety, the transformative power of books, and the meaningful conversations that have shaped his life. From discussing personal growth to interviewing global changemakers like Malala Yousafzai, Brian shares how authentic connections and storytelling can spark real social change. Tune in to explore how reading, resilience, and purpose-driven dialogue can impact lives and build a more connected world. What We're Talking About... Brian Larson’s sobriety journey and how recovery transformed his life and purposeThe story behind the Shelf Care Society podcast and book club focused on mental health and connectionKey insights from Brian’s conversation with Malala Yousafzai and her powerful memoirHow books can inspire personal growth, healing, and meaningful social change Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 08:18 The Launch of Shelf Care Society 15:38 Friendship with Malala Yousafzai 22:21 Navigating the Literary World 29:47 The Power of Books and Community 33:15 The Power of Books and Friendship Links Mentioned Listen to the Shelf Care Society Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6HWtG5eJ7emQ8iwjOVjpD0?si=481b3305352a44c2

    34 min
  3. Born and Razed with Beth Granger

    MAR 17

    Born and Razed with Beth Granger

    In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac speaks with author Beth Granger about her powerful memoir Born and Raised. Beth shares her harrowing 30-year experience living in a cult, her journey toward healing and recovery, and how she ultimately broke free from coercive control. Together, they discuss the warning signs of cult dynamics, the psychological impact of manipulation, and the importance of trusting your intuition. This conversation offers powerful insights into resilience, survival, and recognizing unhealthy power structures. What We're Talking About... How cults often present themselves as elite, successful institutions to attract and control membersThe role of family relationships and how cult environments deliberately dismantle family tiesWhy trusting your intuition can be a powerful tool for recognizing and escaping coercive controlThe long journey of cult recovery and the importance of patience, healing, and self-compassionThe need for vigilance in education systems to prevent manipulation, indoctrination, and abuse of power Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:28 Life in a Cult 07:26 The Impact of Cult Life 11:23 Family Dynamics and Separation 19:12 The Struggle to Speak Out 23:12 Advice for Cult Survivors 30:11 The Role of Support Systems 33:15 Reflections on Strength and Resilience 37:07 Education and Societal Concerns 40:44 Courage to Share: Beth's Story 41:13 Understanding and Empathy: The Importance of Connection Links Mentioned Beth Granger's Website: https://bethgranger.ca/ Beth Granger's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happygranger/ Beth Granger's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beth.gillisgranger/

    41 min
  4. Too Blessed To Stress with Alli Hoff Kosik

    MAR 10

    Too Blessed To Stress with Alli Hoff Kosik

    In this episode of Read the Damn Book, Michelle Glogovac interviews debut author about her novel Too Blessed to Stress, a sharp and timely exploration of influencer culture, church communities, and the impact of social media on modern faith. Ali shares the inspiration behind Too Blessed to Stress, her research into Christian influencer spaces, and how she crafted complex, relatable characters navigating ambition, belief, and online identity. The conversation dives into the pressures of curated perfection, performative faith, and the blurred lines between authenticity and branding in today’s digital world. If you're interested in books about influencer culture, social media satire, women in faith communities, or contemporary fiction exploring religion and identity, this episode offers thoughtful insights and behind-the-scenes perspective from a rising debut author. What We're Talking About... Faith and influencer culture: exploring Christianity in the age of social mediaThe research behind Too Blessed to Stress and writing authentic church communitiesCharacter development in contemporary Christian fictionSocial media’s impact on identity, authenticity, and online personasInfluencer branding, performative faith, and curated perfectionWriting nuanced, respectful social commentary about religion and modern cultureRepresentation of women navigating ambition, belief, and digital spaces Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 02:06 Overview of Too Blessed to Stress and Themes 03:58 Researching Religious Communities and Influencer Culture 06:59 Character Development and Representation 10:03 Social Media's Role in Shaping Identity 12:55 Nuance, Respect, and Satire in the Book 16:09 The Power of Online Personas and Secrets 19:06 Inspiration for Characters and Plot Elements 22:12 Upcoming Book 'People Please' and New Directions 23:50 Author's Journey and Future Plans 26:03 Closing Remarks and Where to Find the Book Links Mentioned Alli Hoff Kosik's Website: https://allihoffkosik.com Order Your Copy of Too Blessed to Stress: https://allihoffkosik.com/too-blessed-to-stress Alli Hoff Kosik's Upcoming Events: https://allihoffkosik.com/too-blessed-to-stress-events Alli Hoff Kosik's Substack: https://allihoffkosik.substack.com/?r=1frb8&utm_medium=web&utm_source=navbar Alli Hoff Kosik's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allihoffkosik

    29 min
  5. That's What Friends Are For with Wade Rouse

    MAR 3

    That's What Friends Are For with Wade Rouse

    In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac interviews bestselling author Wade Rouse about his heartfelt and humorous new novel, That's What Friends Are For. Wade shares the inspiration behind That’s What Friends Are For and how the story explores the power of friendship, chosen family, identity, faith, and community. Through deeply personal insights and compelling storytelling, he reflects on overcoming adversity, embracing authenticity, and the vital role meaningful relationships play in shaping who we are. Throughout the conversation, Wade and Michelle discuss writing about belonging and found family, navigating identity and faith in today’s world, and using humor as a tool for healing and connection. The episode highlights why authentic friendships matter more than ever and why this novel resonates so strongly with readers seeking stories about resilience, acceptance, and living truthfully. What We're Talking About... Exploration of friendship, identity, and community in That's What Friends Are For and how these themes drive the emotional core of the novelHow bestselling author Wade Rouse uses humor to address serious topics like adversity, belonging, and personal growthAuthentic representation of LGBTQ+ experiences, including the challenges and triumphs of living openly and honestlyThe power and importance of chosen family in contemporary fiction and real lifeExploring faith outside organized religion, spiritual connection, and redefining belief on your own terms Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:09 Themes of Friendship and Identity 07:14 Humor as a Tool for Dealing with Pain 13:13 The Concept of Chosen Family 19:15 Faith and Community Beyond Organized Religion 25:15 Character Development and Personal Stories 31:40 The Importance of Friendship 32:09 Being There for Each Other Links Mentioned Wade Rouse's website: https://waderouse.com Viola Shipman Website: http://violashipman.com Wade Rouse Facebook: authorwaderouse Viola Shipman Facebook: authorviolashipman Wade Rouse Instagram: @authorwaderouse Viola Shipman Instagram: viola_shipman

    32 min
  6. Nine Lives with Kayla Delcoure

    FEB 24

    Nine Lives with Kayla Delcoure

    Author Kayla Delcoure joins Read the Damn Book to discuss her new poetry collection Nine Lives, a heartfelt exploration of grief, love, and the unexpected ways loss can spark creativity and connection. In this moving episode, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with Kayla to talk about the profound impact of losing her beloved cats and how that experience shaped both her writing and her online presence. Kayla shares how she transformed personal grief into a creative outlet through storytelling and social media, building a space where vulnerability, remembrance, and advocacy intersect. The conversation explores how writing can serve as both catharsis and catalyst, helping individuals process loss while also inspiring broader conversations around empathy and social justice. Together, Michelle and Kayla examine the power of community in times of heartbreak and the ways authentic connection can fuel meaningful change. What We're Talking About... Author and online content creator Kayla Delcoure discusses her new poetry collection Nine Lives, a heartfelt exploration of pet loss, grief, healing, and the powerful bond between humans and their cats.Kayla’s journey began with her beloved cat Gizmo, who passed away from FIP (feline infectious peritonitis), an experience that profoundly shaped her writing and advocacy.Writing poetry became a crucial tool for Kayla in processing grief, demonstrating how creative expression can support emotional healing after the loss of a pet.In Nine Lives, Kayla Delcoure reflects on her personal experiences with grief and resilience, offering readers an honest look at mourning, memory, and moving forward.Kayla emphasizes that community support is essential when navigating grief, highlighting how shared stories and connection can reduce isolation.Through her online presence, Kayla reminds others that they are not alone in their grief, especially when coping with the loss of a beloved animal companion.She is expanding her platform by launching a podcast designed to foster deeper conversations around healing, storytelling, and social justice.Kayla is also part of “The Organized Gang of Wine Moms,” a grassroots-style community focused on social action and collective engagement.Throughout the episode, she discusses how building meaningful communities requires authenticity, vulnerability, and sustained support.Ultimately, Kayla believes that pets—especially cats—can profoundly shape our emotional lives, teaching us about love, loss, and the enduring impact of connection. Chapters 00:00 Kayla Delcoure Introduction and Background 06:00 The Journey of Grief and Healing 11:59 Community Building and Activism 20:04 The Power of Connection and Support Links Mentioned Order your copy of Nine Lives: https://thepawtistics.com/nine-lives

    30 min
  7. An Unusual Path: Three Generations From Slavery to the White House with John Wrory Ficklin

    FEB 17

    An Unusual Path: Three Generations From Slavery to the White House with John Wrory Ficklin

    In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with author John Wrory Ficklin to discuss his memoir An Unusual Path, a powerful family history tracing his lineage from slavery to life inside the White House. John shares personal stories about growing up in the White House, his father’s decades-long career in presidential service, and the remarkable legacy of a family whose history intersects with American politics at the highest level. The conversation explores themes of generational resilience, government transparency, historical record-keeping, and the evolving role of technology in preserving presidential history. They also dive into the importance of family legacy, the untold stories of Black families in American institutions, and how music has shaped John’s identity and creative expression. This episode is a compelling look at American history, presidential history, memoir writing, and the enduring impact of family heritage. What We're Talking About... John Wrory Ficklin discusses his memoir An Unusual Path, which traces his family’s journey from slavery to life inside the White House.John Ficklin shares what it was like growing up in the White House and how that unique environment shaped his identity.His father served in the White House for 44 years, offering rare insight into presidential history and behind-the-scenes government service.The book weaves together personal stories across multiple generations, highlighting a powerful American family legacy.John’s family developed close relationships with several U.S. presidents, providing a firsthand perspective on leadership and history.He witnessed major historical events from inside one of America’s most iconic institutions.The episode explores how technology transformed record-keeping and archival preservation in the White House.Government transparency and public trust are discussed as essential pillars of American democracy.Music has been a lifelong sanctuary and creative outlet for John alongside his connection to public service.John’s journey reflects generational resilience, dedication, and the evolving story of Black history in America. Chapters 00:00 John Wrory Ficklin Introduction and Background 04:44 Growing Up in the White House 07:31 Career Journey at the National Security Council 10:33 Memorable Experiences and Relationships 13:36 The Impact of Technology on Record Keeping 17:02 Transparency and Declassification in Government 19:58 Personal Stories and Family Legacy 23:02 Music and Its Influence 25:43 Conclusion and Reflections 31:03 The Impact of 'An Unusual Path' Links Mentioned Order your copy of An Unusual Path: https://shop.whitehousehistory.org/products/an-unusual-path-three-generations-from-slavery-to-the-white-house?srsltid=AfmBOoq5TdvGhZ2NU_SnwQuvydkesCYPYz-nZZ7i3fftcqpit2Ogv_0D

    32 min
  8. Family Drama with Rebecca Fallon

    FEB 10

    Family Drama with Rebecca Fallon

    In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with author Rebecca Fallon to discuss her novel Family Drama. Rebecca shares the inspiration behind the book’s complex family relationships, the lasting influence of soap operas on her storytelling, and her personal journey as a writer navigating creativity, identity, and impending motherhood. The conversation explores character dynamics, emotional honesty in fiction, and how deeply personal experiences shape compelling narratives. What We're Talking About... Family Drama explores complex family relationships and emotional bonds within modern familiesSoap operas heavily influence the novel’s structure, pacing, and dramatic tensionAuthor Rebecca Fallon draws from personal experiences to create emotionally authentic storytellingThe character Tilly highlights the often-overlooked strength and complexity of stepmothersMotherhood plays a central role in Rebecca’s life and informs her perspective as a writerThemes of identity, selfhood, and belonging recur throughout the bookRebecca’s background in tech shaped her creative journey and approach to writingThe novel examines multifaceted relationship dynamics between family membersThe book’s ending leaves a lasting emotional impact on readersRebecca is currently working on a second novel focused on college friendships and evolving relationships Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 04:12 Themes of Family and Loss 06:53 The Role of Soap Operas 11:03 Rebecca's Journey to Writing 14:10 Exploring Identity and Womanhood 17:09 Character Relationships and Dynamics 21:17 Motherhood and Personal Reflections 23:42 Future Projects and Conclusion 29:19 The Emotional Journey of Family Drama 29:20 Exploring Themes of Love and Loss Links Mentioned Order your copy of Family Drama: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Family-Drama/Rebecca-Fallon/978166808947

    30 min
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4.9
out of 5
86 Ratings

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
    378
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Show Website
    Read The Damn Book

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