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. 1d ago

    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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. Jul 28

    On The Street Where You Live with Kathryn Nicolai

    In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with Kathryn Nicolai, creator of the hit sleep podcast Nothing Much Happens and author of the audio novel On the Street Where You Live. Kathryn shares how she transformed the simple act of storytelling into a global community centered on rest, mindfulness, and human connection. Together, they discuss the power of everyday stories, the role of sensory details in creating calming narratives, and why slowing down can help us reconnect with ourselves and others. Kathryn also offers insight into her creative process, the inspiration behind her audio novel, and how intentional storytelling can foster empathy, comfort, and a greater appreciation for the ordinary moments that shape our lives. Whether you're interested in mindfulness, storytelling, sleep, creativity, or discovering your next favorite book, this conversation offers thoughtful insights into the healing power of stories and the importance of finding connection in everyday life. What We're Talking About... The power of sensory details in immersive storytellingHow storytelling builds community and meaningful human connectionWhy cozy, wholesome stories resonate with readers and listenersBehind the scenes of writing books and producing audiobooksMindfulness, presence, and finding beauty in everyday momentsWorld-building techniques for fiction, podcasts, and audio storytellingThe connection between storytelling, emotional well-being, and mental health Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kathryn Nicolai and her work 01:00 The origins of the Nothing Much Happens podcast 02:12 The power of storytelling for sleep and relaxation 02:53 Creating a genre: narrative sleep stories 03:50 Expanding into books and world-building 04:48 The process of writing the book On the Street Where You Live 06:02 Sensory details and emotional depth in storytelling 06:57 The importance of community and connection 08:02 The role of cozy stories in a chaotic world 08:56 Balancing multiple projects and creative energy 09:46 The future of storytelling and community building 11:03 How stories shape our understanding of the world 12:06 Closing thoughts and where to find Kathryn's work Links Mentioned Nothing Much Happens Podcast: https://www.nothingmuchhappens.com Listen to On the Street Where You Live: https://www.audible.com/pd/On-the-Street-Where-You-Live-Audiobook/B0GF9RRVRR?source_code=GO1PP30DTRIAL54703142491H0&gclsrc=aw.ds&ds_rl=1261256&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=16881025087&gclid=Cj0KCQjwo_PRBhDNARIsAEcVALV13XH_IDZ7LYIEwNty6YRMFWKNjY2i-4JWLF7EbtDzrE5n0h4WmkMaAteZEALw_wcB

    On The Street Where You Live with Kathryn Nicolai

  5. Jul 16 ·  Bonus

    From Librarian to TN State Senate with Lindsey Patrick-Wright - Beyond The Campaign

    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 candidateThe vital role of public libraries in strengthening communities and protecting democracyThe impact of book banning, censorship, and intellectual freedom in schoolsGrassroots campaigning strategies that increase voter engagement and civic participationHow social media shapes political campaigns, public discourse, and electionsWhy community representation matters in state and local governmentStrategies for flipping political seats and building momentum in Tennessee electionsHow 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

    From Librarian to TN State Senate with Lindsey Patrick-Wright - Beyond The Campaign

  6. Jul 14

    The Half Life with Rachel Beanland

    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 overseasResearching historical fiction, including military history, Italian culture, and real-world eventsCultural immersion, identity, and belonging while living abroad in a close-knit communitySecrecy, trust, and relationships within military families and Navy communitiesThe 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

    The Half Life with Rachel Beanland

  7. Jul 7

    The Midnight Show with Jennifer Thorne and Lee Kelly

    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 timeExploring the influence of Saturday Night Live, comedy, and pop culture on the creation of The Midnight ShowNavigating creative feedback, building trust, and overcoming the challenges of collaborative writingBehind-the-scenes insights into the rapid development and publishing timeline of The Midnight ShowUsing mixed media, dialogue, and innovative storytelling techniques to create an immersive reading experienceBalancing solo writing careers with the demands and rewards of co-authoring novelsCrafting engaging, fast-paced narratives that keep readers invested from beginning to endThe 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

    The Midnight Show with Jennifer Thorne and Lee Kelly

  8. Jun 30

    The Supper Club Saints with Claire Swinarski

    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 fictionWriting middle grade vs. adult novels: Claire Swinarski's creative processFamily secrets, generational relationships, and emotional storytellingThe inspiration behind the "mommune" concept and modern motherhoodCrafting 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

    The Supper Club Saints with Claire Swinarski
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4.9
out of 5
85 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
    393
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Show Website
    Read The Damn Book

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