Her Reading Life Podcast: Read Life-changing Books, Write Life-changing Stories

Shira J. Rodriguez
Her Reading Life Podcast: Read Life-changing Books, Write Life-changing Stories Podcast

Helping readers find life-changing books. Helping writers create life-changing stories. Are you a reader who is tired of the lackluster, trashy books sold in bookstores today? Are you a writer who is just so sick of all the cookie-cutter advice given to writers? Hi! I’m Shira J. Rodriguez, author, podcaster, tea lover, and book addict. Whether you’re a writer or a reader, I’m here to say that I have the perfect list of life-changing books and life-altering writing advice that will blow your mind and free you to create the masterpiece of your dreams. Bring coffee or tea and settle in!

  1. SEP 13

    My Top 11 Books of 2024 | 11 Books You Must Read Before the End of 2024

    GET THE FULL BOOK + CLEANNESS GUIDE: https://bookshop.org/lists/11-books-you-must-read-before-the-end-of-2024? Looking for some books to jump into the last half of the year? Well, lucky you because I just compiled a list of some of my favorites from this year that you absolutely cannot miss before the end of the year.   I hope y'all enjoy today's podcast! Love you guys!  💌business inquiries: shirajrodriguez@gmail.com  LET'S BE FRIENDS! -------- ⭐️PREORDER MY BOOK: https://wildbluewonderpress.com/novelists-in-november/ ⭐️Instagram: shirajrodriguez https://instagram.com/shirajrodriguez  ⭐️Website: https://bio.site/shirajrodriguez  ⭐️Pinterest: ShiraJRodriguez: https://pin.it/6U9qYS1Kq 🏷️Tags: yearly wrap up,,top 10,top 10 books,top 10 favorite books,top 10 books of all time, hello stranger, katherine center, jane eyre, bronte, gabrielle zevin, the unmaking of june farrow, adrienne young, the enigma of room 622, joel dicker, far from the madding crowd, thomas hardy, caraval, stephanie garber, the otherworld, abbie emmons, the labors of hercules beale, gary schmidt, remarkably bright creatures, shelby van pelt, the do over, lynn painter ----------------------------------------------------- Disclaimer: some of these links are affiliate links meaning that if you decide to shop from those links I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you, thank you for your support! 00:00 - Discover Must-Read Books for 2024! 00:15 - Hi! I'm Shira: Your Guide to Life-Changing Reads 01:00 - Why Finding the Right Book Matters 01:25 - Top 11 Books You Can't Miss This Year 05:40 - Book 1: Hello Stranger by Katherine Center 06:13 - Book 2: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë 12:00 - Book 3: The Storied Life of AJ Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin 15:40 - Book 4: The Unmaking of June Pharaoh by Adrienne Young 20:12 - Book 5: The Enigma of Room 622 by Joël Dicker 23:23 - Book 6: Far from the Madding Crowd by Thomas Hardy 29:28 - Book 7: Caraval by Stephanie Garber 37:36 - Book 8: The Otherworld by Abby Emmons 39:51 - Book 9: The Labors of Hercules Beal by Gary D. Schmidt 41:07 - Book 10: Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt

    49 min
  2. SEP 5

    What Nobody Tells You About Writing Community with Bethany J. Melton

    Have you ever heard about the Inklings and wished you could be part of a writing community like C. S. Lewis or J. R. R. Tolkien? Well, I’ve got good news for you… YOU CAN. Today, Bethany and I will be sharing our secrets to finding writing community and a readership who loves what you write and supports you!   I hope y'all enjoy today's podcast! Love you guys!  💌business inquiries: shirajrodriguez@gmail.com  BETHANY’S SOCIALS -------- Blog: https://bethanyjmelton.com Email List Sign-Up: http://eepurl.com/gxuW4n  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethany.j.melton/ Inklings Writing Coaching Website: https://bethanyjmeltonwrit.wixsite.com/inklings-writing-coa LET'S BE FRIENDS! -------- ⭐️PREORDER MY BOOK: https://wildbluewonderpress.com/novel...  ⭐️Instagram: shirajrodriguez instagram.com/shirajrodriguez  ⭐️Website: bio.site/shirajrodriguez  ⭐️Pinterest: ShiraJRodriguez: https://pin.it/6U9qYS1Kq 🏷️Tags: writing groups, writing community, writers unite, book recommendations, monthly tbr, bookstore vlog, bookstore vlog and haul, how to write, writing advice how to become a writer, all the books im going to read this month, books i want to read in, to be read, tbr jar prompts, bookstore vlog aesthetic, tbr jar prompts pick my reads, books to read, tbr jar, tbr game, instagram chooses the books i read, romance, fantasy, book shopping vlog barnes and noble, barnes and noble romance book shopping, booktube, come book shopping with me, book haul, bookstore vlog, amazon book haul unboxing, amazon book haul 2023, writertube, how to write nonfiction, how to find writer community, how  to  find  readers, inklings, c. s. Lewis, tolkien, narnia, lord of the rings, barnes and noble vlog, amazon wishlist, the biggest book haul ever, romance book recommendations, fantasy reads, unbox books with me, book shop with me, book unboxing, booktok books,book shopping,booktube,book shopping vlog,barnes and noble vlog,book shopping with me,book shopping and haul,book shopping spree,,indie bookstore, The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry, Abbie Emmons

    1h 17m
  3. AUG 20

    3 Daily Writing Habits to Transform Your Creative Life with Abi Lyn Voss, Hope Jian, and Olivia G. Booms (Part 3)

    What if I told you less is more when it comes to writing? Well, today Abi Lyn Voss, Hope Jian, and Olivia G. Booms from Voices of the Future Anthology Vol 1 and I will dive into how to transform your creative life with three simple, yet powerful, daily writing habits. These habits are not just about putting words on paper; they’re about finding joy in the process, pouring your creativity into others, and establishing routines that will help you thrive as a writer. In this episode, we’ll explore: Daily writing habits that can ignite your creativity and bring joy to your life. Creative ways to pour into others through your writing, making a positive impact on those around you. Wonderful habits that support your creative process, helping you stay inspired and motivated every day. So, grab your favorite notebook and a cozy cup of coffee (or tea, if that’s your thing) and join us for a heartwarming and insightful chat. Whether you're an established author or just beginning your writing journey, you’ll find something here to uplift and inspire you. Tune in and let’s transform your creative life together! ✨ Don’t forget to check out my bookshop on Bookshop.org for all my top book recommendations. Let’s get inspired and get writing! Find all the links for my recommended BOOKS here: https://bookshop.org/lists/10-books-you-must-read-in-2024-what-i-m-currently-reading-part-1? CURRENT READS:  The Beast’s Heart by Leif Shallcross Emma by Jane Austen Subscribe to the podcast now and never miss an episode that speaks to the heart and soul of bibliophiles and believers alike.📚🎧 #BookLovers #FutureBooks #WritingInspiration #ReadersDesires #PodcastDiscussion (I participate in selected affiliate programs such as Bookshop.org or Dwell for these links, so if a link takes you to their websites, know that it is most likely an affiliate link.) Were you blessed by today's episode? I would be so, so grateful if you would let me know by leaving a review or DMing me on Instagram @shirajrodriguez. I can't tell you what joy it brings me to hear your sweet words and what a huge encouragement they are! CONNECT WITH TODAY’S GUESTS: Abi Lyn Voss https://www.instagram.com/abilynvossauthor/ https://www.facebook.com/abilynvoss/ http://abilynvoss.com/ Hope Jian https://www.instagram.com/hopejianauthor/ https://www.facebook.com/hope.dougherty.56/ https://hope-jian.ck.page/dfc5a842d9 Olivia G. Booms (Email List) subscribepage.io/t4ku10 (Instagram) https://www.instagram.com/oliviagboomsauthor/ (Facebook) https://www.facebook.com/oliviagboomsauthor CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @shirajrodriguez Website (My online home-away-from-home) : bio.site/shirajrodriguez Email: shirajrodriguez@gmail.com MUSIC CREDITS: Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): License code: Y1U1JXWCHMI9OBHU License code: CSLDVXL3SQL9SIDH

    34 min
  4. AUG 9

    The Secret Nobody Talks About to Writing A Great Story That Your Readers Can't Get Enough Of with Abi Lyn Voss, Hope Jian + Olivia G. Booms (Part 2)

    Hey everyone! Welcome back to another exciting episode where we’re diving deep into the art of storytelling with the incredible Abi Lyn Voss, Hope Jian, and Olivia G. Booms. 🎉 In this second part of our conversation, we’re uncovering the secret to writing a truly great story. But we’re also talking about something even more important—embracing the writing process and how it helps us grow as individuals. So, grab your favorite notebook and a cup of coffee (or tea, if that’s your thing) and join us for a fun and insightful chat. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, there's something here for everyone. We’ll cover: How embracing the writing process can lead to personal growth. How storytelling can be a powerful tool for self-discovery. Tips on overcoming challenges and finding joy in your writing journey. Ways to nurture your creativity and develop a positive mindset. Don’t forget to check out my bookshop on Bookshop.org for all my top book recommendations. Let’s get inspired and get writing! Find all the links for my recommended BOOKS here: https://bookshop.org/lists/10-books-you-must-read-in-2024-what-i-m-currently-reading-part-1? Podcast Chapters: Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00) Guests Introduction (00:02:54) Social Media Break Reflection (00:04:03) Importance of Perseverance (00:10:07) Comparison and Growth (00:12:21) Value of Messy Projects (00:17:53) True Writing Comes from Experience (00:19:16) Bookshop Announcement (00:20:27) Call for Street Team Members (00:21:45) Importance of Reviews (00:22:54) Introduction to Community Engagement (00:23:46) Impact of Anthology on Readers (00:24:48) Themes of Worth and Belonging (00:25:56) Encouragement to be Brave (00:26:42) Healing Through Grief (00:27:12) Importance of Belonging in Stories (00:28:10) Future Writing Projects (00:29:17) Abbi's Fantasy Novel Concept (00:30:21) Olivia's Unique Storyline (00:31:13) Querying a Novel (00:31:52) Creative Ideas and Support (00:32:39) Reflection on Writing's Depth (00:34:06) Next Episode Preview (00:36:26) Closing Remarks (00:37:30) CURRENT READS:  The Voyage of the Dawn Treader by C. S. Lewis Subscribe to the podcast now and never miss an episode that speaks to the heart and soul of bibliophiles and believers alike.📚🎧 #BookLovers #FutureBooks #WritingInspiration #ReadersDesires #PodcastDiscussion (I participate in selected affiliate programs such as Bookshop.org or Dwell for these links, so if a link takes you to their websites, know that it is most likely an affiliate link.) Were you blessed by today's episode? I would be so, so grateful if you would let me know by leaving a review or DMing me on Instagram @shirajrodriguez. I can't tell you what joy it brings me to hear your sweet words and what a huge encouragement they are! CONNECT WITH TODAY’S GUESTS: Abi Lyn Voss https://www.instagram.com/abilynvossauthor/ https://www.facebook.com/abilynvoss/ http://abilynvoss.com/ Hope Jian https://www.instagram.com/hopejianauthor/ https://www.facebook.com/hope.dougherty.56/ https://hope-jian.ck.page/dfc5a842d9 Olivia G. Booms (Email List) subscribepage.io/t4ku10 (Instagram) https://www.instagram.com/oliviagboomsauthor/ (Facebook) https://www.facebook.com/oliviagboomsauthor CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @shirajrodriguez Website (My online home-away-from-home) : bio.site/shirajrodriguez Email: shirajrodriguez@gmail.com MUSIC CREDITS: Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): License code: Y1U1JXWCHMI9OBHU License code: CSLDVXL3SQL9SIDH

    38 min
  5. AUG 2

    The #1 Writing Exercise to Make Your Writing Stronger with Abi Lyn Voss, Hope Jian and Olivia G. Booms (Part 1)

    Did you know that there is a writing exercise that can make your writing ten times stronger than it is now? In this first part of our chat, we dive into the #1 writing exercise that will seriously up your writing game. But that's not all! We also explore where to find inspiration, the best ways to approach writing a short story, and some fantastic tips on putting together an anthology. So, grab your favorite notebook and a cup of coffee (or tea, if that’s your thing) and join us for a fun and insightful conversation. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, there's something here for everyone. Don’t forget to check out my bookshop on Bookshop.org for all my top book recommendations. Let’s get inspired and get writing! We’ll cover: Discover the #1 writing exercise to strengthen your writing skills. Learn where to find inspiration for your next writing project. Get expert advice on how to approach writing a short story. Explore tips and strategies for creating a compelling anthology. Find all the links for my recommended BOOKS here: https://bookshop.org/lists/10-books-you-must-read-in-2024-what-i-m-currently-reading-part-1? CURRENT READS:  Finale by Stephanie Garber The Voyage of the Dawn Treader by C. S. Lewis Subscribe to the podcast now and never miss an episode that speaks to the heart and soul of bibliophiles and believers alike.📚🎧 #BookLovers #FutureBooks #WritingInspiration #ReadersDesires #PodcastDiscussion (I participate in selected affiliate programs such as Bookshop.org or Dwell for these links, so if a link takes you to their websites, know that it is most likely an affiliate link.) Were you blessed by today's episode? I would be so, so grateful if you would let me know by leaving a review or DMing me on Instagram @shirajrodriguez. I can't tell you what joy it brings me to hear your sweet words and what a huge encouragement they are! CONNECT WITH TODAY’S GUESTS: Abi Lyn Voss https://www.instagram.com/abilynvossauthor/ https://www.facebook.com/abilynvoss/ http://abilynvoss.com/ Hope Jian https://www.instagram.com/hopejianauthor/ https://www.facebook.com/hope.dougherty.56/ https://hope-jian.ck.page/dfc5a842d9 Olivia G. Booms (Email List) subscribepage.io/t4ku10 (Instagram) https://www.instagram.com/oliviagboomsauthor/ (Facebook) https://www.facebook.com/oliviagboomsauthor CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @shirajrodriguez Website (My online home-away-from-home) : bio.site/shirajrodriguez Email: shirajrodriguez@gmail.com MUSIC CREDITS: Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): License code: Y1U1JXWCHMI9OBHU License code: CSLDVXL3SQL9SIDH

    48 min
  6. JUL 25

    Why Your Writing Process is Not Working for You and How to Fix It with Jake Lynch (Part 2)

    So…how do you find the perfect writing process that makes the difference between writing 500 words a week and writing 2,000 words a day? In this episode, we're diving deep into the world of writing processes with the author of Broken to Beautiful, Jake Lynch. Jake's here to share his insights on crafting a writing routine that fits you and avoid the cookie-cutter solutions! We’ll also chat about the ups and downs of perfectionism and how to keep it from derailing your creative flow. Are you working on your second book? Jake's got some golden advice on how to tackle that daunting project. Plus, we explore where he finds his inspiration and the one crucial piece of advice he wishes he could give his younger self. Spoiler alert: it's a game-changer! We also get a peek into Jake's author lifestyle habits—what keeps him productive, sane, and constantly creating. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical tips and heartfelt wisdom. Tune in and get inspired to create a writing process that works for you! We’ll cover: • Findin a writing process that works for YOU • How to battle perfectionism as a writer • How to approach writing second book • Where to find inspiration • The one thing he would tell his younger self if he could go back in time • Essential author lifestyle habits. Find all the links for my recommended BOOKS here: https://bookshop.org/lists/10-books-you-must-read-in-2024-what-i-m-currently-reading-part-1? CURRENT READS:  The Do-Over by Lynn Painter The Voyage of the Dawn Treader by C. S. Lewis Subscribe to the podcast now and never miss an episode that speaks to the heart and soul of bibliophiles and believers alike.📚🎧 #BookLovers #FutureBooks #WritingInspiration #ReadersDesires #PodcastDiscussion (I participate in selected affiliate programs such as Bookshop.org or Dwell for these links, so if a link takes you to their websites, know that it is most likely an affiliate link.) Were you blessed by today's episode? I would be so, so grateful if you would let me know by leaving a review or DMing me on Instagram @shirajrodriguez. I can't tell you what joy it brings me to hear your sweet words and what a huge encouragement they are!

    52 min
  7. JUL 11

    Are You Called to Be a Writer? with Jake Lynch (Part 1)

    Ever wondered if you were born to be a writer or if it's something you can learn along the way?  In today's episode, we're diving deep into that age-old question: are writers made or born? Well, today’s guest, Jake Lynch, might turn your question on its head as he shares some incredibly insightful tips on discovering your dream career—whether it's penning novels, painting with canvas, or pouring love into others in your workplace And as if that’s not enough, we've got a heartwarming story lined up about how God's fingerprints can be found in every twist and turn of the writing process. It's a reminder that sometimes the most inspiring stories come straight from above, guiding our hands and hearts as we pour our thoughts onto paper (or screen!). So grab your coffee, get cozy, and join us as we chat about finding your calling, chasing those career dreams, and uncovering the divine magic in the art of writing. Trust me, you won't want to miss this one! We’ll cover: How to determine your dream career How to find out if you’re called to write How to tackle writing difficult topics with sensitivity How to keep yourself emotionally + mentally healthy while writing challenging scenes Find all the links for my recommended BOOKS here: https://bookshop.org/lists/10-books-you-must-read-in-2024-what-i-m-currently-reading-part-1? CURRENT READS:  Legendary by Stephanie Garber The Bodyguard by Katherine Center Subscribe to the podcast now and never miss an episode that speaks to the heart and soul of bibliophiles and believers alike.📚🎧 #BookLovers #FutureBooks #WritingInspiration #ReadersDesires #PodcastDiscussion (I participate in selected affiliate programs such as Bookshop.org or Dwell for these links, so if a link takes you to their websites, know that it is most likely an affiliate link.) Were you blessed by today's episode? I would be so, so grateful if you would let me know by leaving a review or DMing me on Instagram @shirajrodriguez. I can't tell you what joy it brings me to hear your sweet words and what a huge encouragement they are! CONNECT WITH TODAY’S GUESTS: Jake Lynch Website: authorjakelynch.com Instagram: @authorjakelynch CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @shirajrodriguez Website (My online home-away-from-home) : bio.site/shirajrodriguez Email: shirajrodriguez@gmail.com MUSIC CREDITS: Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): License code: Y1U1JXWCHMI9OBHU License code: CSLDVXL3SQL9SIDH

    41 min
  8. JUN 28

    ANTHOLOGY DIARIES: TITLE/STORY/COVER REVEAL + EDITING UPDATES

    JOIN THE STREET TEAM: https://forms.gle/BUu78uegtacm8M7D9 PREORDER THE ANTHOLOGY: https://wildbluewonderpress.com/preorders/ EPISODE MENTIONED: https://youtu.be/s7dXT3FhQzw?si=7BEf6LY3UlPtJade MY FRIEND MORIYAH'S BLOG & PODCAST: Blog: fablerosemc.blogspot.com Newsletter/Substack: https://fablerose.substack.com/ Podcast Website: https://faithwritingcoffee.wixsite.com/my-siteBible Study: https://beholdpeace.wordpress.com Find all the links for my recommended BOOKS here: ⁠https://bookshop.org/lists/10-books-you-must-read-in-2024-what-i-m-currently-reading-part-1⁠? CURRENT READS: Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt Subscribe to the podcast now and never miss an episode that speaks to the heart and soul of bibliophiles and believers alike.📚🎧 #BookLovers #FutureBooks #WritingInspiration #ReadersDesires #PodcastDiscussion ⁠READ THE TRANSCRIPT OF THIS EPISODE AT BIO.SITE/SHIRAJRODRIGUEZ⁠ (I participate in selected affiliate programs such as Bookshop.org or Dwell for these links, so if a link takes you to their websites, know that it is most likely an affiliate link.) Were you blessed by today's episode? I would be so, so grateful if you would let me know by leaving a review or DMing me on Instagram @shirajrodriguez. I can't tell you what joy it brings me to hear your sweet words and what a huge encouragement they are! CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @shirajrodriguez Website (My online home-away-from-home) : bio.site/shirajrodriguez Email: ⁠shirajrodriguez@gmail.com⁠

    30 min
4.6
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Helping readers find life-changing books. Helping writers create life-changing stories. Are you a reader who is tired of the lackluster, trashy books sold in bookstores today? Are you a writer who is just so sick of all the cookie-cutter advice given to writers? Hi! I’m Shira J. Rodriguez, author, podcaster, tea lover, and book addict. Whether you’re a writer or a reader, I’m here to say that I have the perfect list of life-changing books and life-altering writing advice that will blow your mind and free you to create the masterpiece of your dreams. Bring coffee or tea and settle in!

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