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This Is the Author

658 episodes - English - Latest episode: 3 days ago - ★★★★★ - 20 ratings

A podcast about authors reading their audiobooks from Penguin Random House Audio.

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Episodes

S5 E19: Alex Halberstadt, Esther Safran Foer, and Carolyn Forché

April 07, 2020 13:37 - 13 minutes - 19 MB

S5 E19: In this episode, meet Alex Halberstadt, Esther Safran Foer, and Carolyn Forche. Each of these authors has written about their search for hidden family histories in the context of world-altering historical events. Listen in and hear what it was like for them to read their audiobooks. Plus, find out whose recording session required them to pronounce words in (at least!) 8 languages. Young Heroes of the Soviet Union by Alex Halberstadt: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/73622...

S5 E15: In Conversation: George Saunders with Executive Producer Kelly Gildea

March 24, 2020 14:39 - 16 minutes - 22.6 MB

S5 E15 - Welcome to another episode of This is the Author in Conversation, a more intimate behind the mic chat with our authors in the audiobooks studio. Today you’ll meet beloved, award-winning author George Saunders, and Sr. Executive Producer at Penguin Random House Audio, Kelly Gildea, who also produced and directed George’s many audiobook productions. Recording an audiobook can be a singular creative experience for an author---and equally so for their listeners and fans. What’s perhap...

S5 E16: Mara Hvistendahl, Robert Reich, and Charlotte Alter

March 24, 2020 14:18 - 17 minutes - 24.6 MB

S5 E16: In this episode, meet Mara Hvistendahl, Robert Reich, and Charlotte Alter. These authors are each deeply knowledgeable about the urgent economic and political landscapes that are affecting our everyday lives. Listen to their fascinating behind-the-mic insights and hear what it was like for them to record their audiobooks. The Scientist and the Spy by Mara Hvistendahl: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/549962/the-scientist-and-the-spy/ The System by Robert B. Reich: https:...

S5 E17: Jim McKelvey, Hope Jahren, and Courtney Carver

March 24, 2020 14:11 - 18 minutes - 25.6 MB

S5 E17: In this episode, meet Jim McKelvey, Hope Jahren, and Courtney Carver. Step into the audio studio with these authors as they talk about both innovation and how we can all do more with less, and what it means to incorporate that new thinking into our daily lives. The Innovation Stack by Jim McKelvey: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/617493/the-innovation-stack/ The Story of More by Hope Jahren: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/575671/the-story-of-more/ Project...

S5 E14: Rebecca Solnit, Celeste Headlee, and Sarah Ramey

March 17, 2020 15:10 - 20 minutes - 28.7 MB

S5 E14: In this episode, meet Rebecca Solnit, Celeste Headlee, and Sarah Ramey. These authors have written and narrated audiobooks about what it takes to come up against entrenched systems and create the space needed to live the fullest life possible. Go behind the mic and hear what it was like for them to record their audiobooks. Plus, find out who was told that she pronounces some words “like an opera singer.” Recollections of My Nonexistence by Rebecca Solnit: https://www.penguinrandomhou...

S5 E13: Phil Stamper, Ariana Margulis, and Jessica Lanyadoo

March 10, 2020 22:55 - 13 minutes - 12.2 MB

S5 E13: In this episode, meet Phil Stamper, Ariana Margulis, and Jessica Lanyadoo. Go behind the mic with these authors as they talk about love: first love, misguided love, true love, and even love from an astrological point of view. Plus, find out whose dream audiobook narrator is a toss-up between Bart Simpson and…Scarlett Johansson. The Gravity of Us by Phil Stamper: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/623945/the-gravity-of-us/ But Like Maybe Don't? by Arianna Margulis: https://...

S5 E12: Bill Burnett and Dave Evans, Emily Balcetis, and Janice Kaplan

March 04, 2020 19:39 - 16 minutes - 22.4 MB

S5 E12: In this episode, meet co-authors Bill Burnett and Dave Evans, Emily Balcetis, and Janice Kaplan. When making a change, sometimes it’s the little things that matter, sometimes it’s the big ones. Step into the recording studio and hear what motivated each of these authors to write and record their audiobooks. Designing Your Work Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/592536/designing-your-work-life/ Clearer, Closer, Better by Emily Balcetis: ...

S5 E11: Eilene Zimmerman, Conor Dougherty, and Sierra Crane Murdoch

March 04, 2020 19:36 - 22 minutes - 31.5 MB

S5 E11: In this episode meet Eilene Zimmerman, Conor Dougherty, and Sierra Crane Murdoch. Go behind the mic with these authors and hear what it was like for them to bring their intensely researched, timely, and thought-provoking works to their audiobooks. Smacked by Eilene Zimmerman: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/574587/smacked/ Golden Gates by Conor Dougherty: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/585765/golden-gates/ Yellow Bird by Sierra Crane Murdoch: https://www....

S5 E10: In Conversation with Lance Rubin and Katie Schorr

February 26, 2020 01:43 - 13 minutes - 18.2 MB

S5 E10: Welcome to another episode of This Is the Author - In Conversation, a more intimate behind the mic chat with our authors in the audiobook studio. Today you’ll meet author Lance Rubin and narrator Katie Schorr. This husband and wife team collaborated in more ways than one to bring the humor and heartbreak of CRYING LAUGHING to life. The main character of Winnie is actually inspired by Katie – who shares why she wishes she was actually more like this young protagonist when she was growi...

S5 E9: Wendelin Van Draanen, Kristina Kuzmic, and Tara Schuster

February 25, 2020 15:00 - 11 minutes - 15.6 MB

S5 E9: In this episode, meet Wendelin Van Draanen, Kristina Kuzmic, and Tara Schuster. Each of these authors has written a memoir full of insight, humor, and warmth. Now it’s time to go behind the mic and hear the unvarnished truth about what it was like for them to record their own work. Plus, find out who likes to listen to audiobooks while cooking a famously epic rice dish. Hope in the Mail by Wendelin Van Draanen: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/606418/hope-in-the-mail/ Hol...

S5 E8: Dr. Siegel & Dr. Payne Bryson, Beth Newell & Jackie Ann Ruiz, & Dr. Natterson

February 18, 2020 13:19 - 15 minutes - 20.6 MB

S5 E8: In this episode, meet Dr. Daniel Siegel and Dr. Tina Payne Bryson, Beth Newell and Jackie Ann Ruiz, and Dr. Cara Natterson. These authors have written illuminating parenting books that will change the way you think about raising children – and actually decrease your stress about it at the same time. Go behind the mic and find out what inspired them to write and read their audiobooks. The Power of Showing Up by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio...

S5 E6: Steve Inskeep, Kate Winkler Dawson, and William Wheeler

February 14, 2020 14:45 - 11 minutes - 15.6 MB

S5 E6: In this episode, meet Steve Inskeep, Kate Winkler Dawson, and William Wheeler. Go behind the mic with these experienced documentarians and hear what it was like to record their audiobooks. Plus, find out who has learned a lot about story structure from listening to children’s audiobooks in the car. Imperfect Union by Steve Inskeep: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/555136/imperfect-union/ American Sherlock by Kate Winkler Dawson: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/boo...

S5 E5: David Levithan, R. Eric Thomas, and John Kenney

February 11, 2020 14:48 - 13 minutes - 19 MB

S5 E5: In this episode, meet authors David Levithan, R. Eric Thomas, and John Kenney, and get ready to laugh as you hear each of these witty writers describe what it was like to narrate their own audiobooks. Plus, find out who listens to audiobooks right before bed, who mispronounced the word “mistake” and had to do re-takes, and who can’t seem to find his clothes right now. 19 Love Songs by David Levithan: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/600199/19-love-songs/ Here for It by R...

S5 E7: Jennie Allen, Robin Meyers, and Dr. Lee Warren

February 04, 2020 14:52 - 9 minutes - 12.7 MB

S5 E5: In this episode meet authors Jennie Allen, Robin Meyers, and Dr. Lee Warren. These authors have written poignant books about faith and life; now hear what it was like for them to share their journeys from the recording studio. Plus, find out one author’s secret recipe for a great story. Get Out of Your Head by Jennie Allen: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/540868/get-out-of-your-head/ Saving God from Religion by Robin R. Meyers: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/boo...

S5 E5: Jennie Allen, Robin Meyers, and Dr. Lee Warren

February 04, 2020 14:52 - 9 minutes - 12.7 MB

S5 E5: In this episode meet authors Jennie Allen, Robin Meyers, and Dr. Lee Warren. These authors have written poignant books about faith and life; now hear what it was like for them to share their journeys from the recording studio. Plus, find out one author’s secret recipe for a great story. Get Out of Your Head by Jennie Allen: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/540868/get-out-of-your-head/ Saving God from Religion by Robin R. Meyers: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/boo...

S5 E4: Holly Whitaker, Romi Neustadt, and Laura Huang

January 30, 2020 20:23 - 13 minutes - 18.5 MB

S5 E4: In this episode meet Holly Whitaker, Romi Neustadt, and Laura Huang. Go behind the mic with these authors and hear what it was like to record their audiobooks—and what they discovered in the process! Quit Like a Woman by Holly Whitaker: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/605025/quit-like-a-woman/ You Can Have It All, Just Not at the Same Damn Time by Romi Neustadt: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/611452/you-can-have-it-all-just-not-at-the-same-damn-time/ Edge ...

S5 E3: Wayne Baker, Robin Dreeke, and Rick Wilson

January 28, 2020 14:57 - 11 minutes - 16.5 MB

S5 E3: In this episode, meet Wayne Baker, Robin Dreeke, and Rick Wilson. Go behind the mic with these experts in human behavior and hear what it was like to record their audiobooks. Plus, find out who listens to audiobooks while riding a tractor! All You Have to Do Is Ask by Wayne Baker: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/607570/all-you-have-to-do-is-ask/ Sizing People Up by Robin Dreeke: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/600291/sizing-people-up/ Running Against the De...

S5 E2: In Conversation with Rachel Friedman

January 21, 2020 15:29 - 32 minutes - 44.5 MB

S5 E2: Welcome to our first episode of This is the Author in Conversation, a more intimate behind the mic chat with our authors in the audiobook studio. This is Jennifer Rubins from Penguin Random House Audio and I’m thrilled to invite you into my conversation with Rachel Friedman, the author of AND THEN WE GREW UP: On Creativity, Potential, and the Imperfect Art of Adulthood. Publishers Weekly named it a Best Book of 2019 and in a starred review said “Anyone who’s ever looked back longingly...

S5 E1: Adam Davidson, David Meerman Scott and Reiko Scott, and Jordan Raynor

January 21, 2020 15:01 - 19 minutes - 26.3 MB

S5 E1: In this episode, meet Adam Davidson, co-authors David Meerman Scott and Reiko Scott, and Jordan Raynor. Step into the audio booth with these authors and hear their unique perspectives on the economy, innovation, and work. Plus, find out who has attended 75 Grateful Dead concerts! The Passion Economy by Adam Davidson: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/239718/the-passion-economy/ Fanocracy by David Meerman Scott and Reiko Scott: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/6...

S4 E70: Kelly McGonigal, John Mark Comer, and Maye Musk

December 17, 2019 14:36 - 15 minutes - 21.5 MB

S4 E70: In this episode meet Kelly McGonigal, John Mark Comer, and model and dietitian Maye Musk. Join each of these authors behind the mic as they talk about writing and narrating their audiobook, and hear what they are most excited to share with listeners. Plus, find out which of these authors “decorated” the studio while recording—and with what! The Joy of Movement by Kelly McGonigal: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/564895/the-joy-of-movement/ The Ruthless Elimination of Hur...

S4 E69: Kenneth Paul Rosenberg, Buster Benson, and Jeff Lindsay

December 09, 2019 19:29 - 13 minutes - 18.1 MB

S4 E69: In this episode meet Kenneth Paul Rosenberg, Buster Benson, and Jeff Lindsay. Step into the studio with these careful observers of human nature, and learn what inspired them to write and narrate their audiobooks. Plus, find out whose background in performance helped him polish his narrator chops! Bedlam by Kenneth Paul Rosenberg: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/602602/bedlam/ Why Are We Yelling? by Buster Benson: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/598274/why-a...

S4 E68: Timothy Egan, Clark Strand and Perdita Finn

December 03, 2019 19:37 - 9 minutes - 8.86 MB

S4 E68: In this episode, meet journalist Timothy Egan, author of A Pilgrimage to Eternity, and Clark Strand and Perdita Finn, co-authors of The Way of the Rose. Go behind the mic with these authors and hear more about the spiritual paths that inspired their audiobooks. Plus, discover the pronunciations that tripped up even these careful wordsmiths! A Pilgrimage to Eternity by Timothy Egan: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/558305/a-pilgrimage-to-eternity/ The Way of the Rose by ...

S4 E66: Andrew Marantz, Scott Adams, and Bari Weiss

November 19, 2019 14:31 - 12 minutes - 16.5 MB

S4 E66: In this episode meet Andrew Marantz, Scott Adams, and Bari Weiss. Each of these authors is a keen observer of the ways in which ideas are spread online and in the public sphere. Hear them talk about their work, and what it was like to record their audiobooks. Plus, find out who thought the audio booth was "so relaxing." Antisocial by Andrew Marantz: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/562022/antisocial/ How to Fail at Almost Everything and Still Win Big by Scott Adams: http...

S4 E67: John Hodgman, Cameron Douglas, and Guy Snodgrass

November 19, 2019 14:31 - 12 minutes - 16.9 MB

S4 E67: In this episode meet John Hodgman, Cameron Douglas, and Guy Snodgrass. Go behind the mic with these authors as they talk about the experiences that inspired them to write and record their audiobooks. Plus find out which noises are "the bane of audiobook narration." Medallion Status by John Hodgman: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/595005/medallion-status/ Long Way Home by Cameron Douglas: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/565964/long-way-home/ Holding the Lin...

S4 E64: Yancey Strickler, Sasha Sagan, and Gary Ferguson

November 12, 2019 15:04 - 11 minutes - 16.4 MB

S4 E64: In this episode, meet Yancey Strickler, Sasha Sagan, and Gary Ferguson. As Yancey notes in this interview, “the world of value is bigger than we think.” Go behind the mic with each one of these authors as they talk about variations on this idea as viewed through the lenses of business, philosophy, and engagement with the natural world. Plus, get new audiobook recommendations from these three voracious listeners! This Could Be Our Future by Yancey Strickler: https://www.penguinrandomh...

S4 E65: Adam Gidwitz, Adam Grant & Allison Sweet Grant, and John Cena

November 12, 2019 15:00 - 16 minutes - 22.1 MB

S4 E65: In this episode, meet Adam Gidwitz, Adam Grant & Allison Sweet Grant, and John Cena. Discover the inspiration behind A Tale Dark and Grimm, listen to husband and wife writing team Adam and Allison discuss The Gift Inside the Box, and hear how John Cena applies “elbow grease” in his own life. Plus, learn the one question that may change dinnertime conversations with your kids forever. A Tale Dark and Grimm by Adam Gidwitz: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/306780/a-tale-dar...

S4 E63: Melissa Sweet Charlotte's Web

November 05, 2019 15:39 - 10 minutes - 15 MB

S4 E63: THIS IS THE ILLUSTRATOR (special ep with Melissa Sweet). In this special episode of This Is the Author, we present: This Is the Illustrator! Meet artist Melissa Sweet, who illustrated the audiobook cover for the new production of E.B. White’s Charlotte’s Web, narrated by Meryl Streep and a full cast. Learn what led Melissa to this project, and what it is about audiobooks that make the imagination run wild. After the interview, stick around to hear our new recording of Charlotte’s Web...

S4 E62: Rachel Maddow, Deepak Chopra, and Ali Wong

October 29, 2019 13:44 - 10 minutes - 14.2 MB

S4 E62: In this episode meet Rachel Maddow, Deepak Chopra, and Ali Wong. These authors may all be household names but listening to them talk about their recording experiences feels like meeting them for the first time. Learn more about what inspired each of their books. Plus, find out why narrating an audiobook is like a trip to the gym! Blowout by Rachel Maddow: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/576330/blowout/ Metahuman by Deepak Chopra, M.D. : https://www.penguinrandomhousea...

S4 E61: Jonathan Vaughters, Christopher McDougall, and Mira and Jayson Calton

October 22, 2019 13:39 - 12 minutes - 16.7 MB

S4 E61: In this episode meet Jonathan Vaughters, Christopher McDougall, and Mira and Jayson Calton. Join these authors behind the mic as they share how physical activity has impacted various aspects of their lives. From professional cycling to burro racing to building bone health, these authors’ passions will inspire you to learn more about the mind-body connection. Plus, find out who compared narrating his audiobook to riding a roller coaster, and why! One-Way Ticket by Jonathan Vaughters...

S4 E60: Eve Rodsky, J.J. Sutherland, and Latasha Morrison

October 15, 2019 19:19 - 10 minutes - 9.53 MB

S4 E60: In this episode meet Eve Rodsky, J.J. Sutherland, and Latasha Morrison. These authors are pioneering new ways to think about equity, offering practical steps to help better achieve it in the division of labor in our homes, in the ways we operate at work, and in our steps toward racial reconciliation in everyday life. Hear what it was like for them to record their audiobooks. Plus, find out which of these authors narrated their entire audiobook standing up! Fair Play by Eve Rodsky: ...

S4 E59: Ruta Sepetys, Carolina de Robertis, and Morgan Parker

October 15, 2019 17:08 - 16 minutes - 23.2 MB

S4 E59: In this episode meet authors Ruta Sepetys, Carolina de Robertis, and Morgan Parker. Whether they’ve delved into hidden histories or explored the inner workings of the teenage psyche, these authors have written nuanced and moving novels that are meant to be heard on audio. Hear them describe the events that inspired their work. Plus, discover the identity of the “friend who got you when your other friends didn’t.” The Fountains of Silence by Ruta Sepetys: https://www.penguinrandomho...

S4 E58: Nico Tortorella, Akilah Hughes, and Cory Allen

September 24, 2019 19:39 - 11 minutes - 11 MB

S4 E58: In this episode meet Nico Tortorella, author of SPACE BETWEEN; Akilah Hughes, author of OBVIOUSLY; and Cory Allen author of NOW IS THE WAY. Each of these young writers is using their creativity and talent to inspire others to grow—through art, introspection, and joyous expression. Hear them talk honestly about recording their audiobooks; plus, find out which of these authors has finally become their own “love bomb.” Space Between by Nico Tortorella: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudi...

S4 E57: Jim Williams, Robert Pondiscio, and Rhonda Magee

September 24, 2019 15:02 - 17 minutes - 24.4 MB

In this episode, meet Jim Williams, author of PATH OF THE PUMA; Robert Pondiscio, author of HOW THE OTHER HALF LEARNS; and Rhonda Magee, author of THE INNER WORK OF RACIAL JUSTICE. What big cats can teach us about the environment. The lessons learned from years of teaching at a public school. The ways mindfulness in law school classrooms helps students talk about race. These are the passions of the authors, who are applying their professional experiences to further conversations around timel...

S4 E56: Lisa Sanders, David Fajgenbaum, and Elizabeth Stanley

September 17, 2019 16:26 - 13 minutes - 19.2 MB

In this episode meet Dr. Lisa Sanders, author of DIAGNOSIS; Dr. David Fajgenbaum, author of CHASING MY CURE; and Dr. Elizabeth Stanley, author of WIDEN THE WINDOW. Each of these writers brings medical expertise and creative thinking to their profession in an effort to educate, illuminate, and bring hope and healing to people suffering with difficult symptoms and elusive diagnoses. Listen to them reflect on their recording experiences. Plus, find out which author thinks a certain famous TV d...

S4 E55: Sarah Hurwitz, David Platt, and Melissa D’Arabian

September 17, 2019 16:19 - 10 minutes - 14.3 MB

In this episode meet Sarah Hurwitz, author of HERE ALL ALONG; David Platt, author of SOMETHING NEEDS TO CHANGE; and Melissa D’Arabian, author of TASTING GRACE. Go behind the mic with these authors as they share what inspired their often unexpected—and revelatory—spiritual journeys. Plus, discover the word one seasoned pro has been mispronouncing—albeit with considerable flair—for years. HERE ALL ALONG by Sarah Hurwitz: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/572627/here-all-along/ SO...

S4 E54: Brad Smith, Jason Harris, and Antoinette M. Clarke & Tricia Clarke-Stone

September 10, 2019 15:30 - 12 minutes - 11.5 MB

In this episode meet Brad Smith, author of TOOLS AND WEAPONS; Jason Harris, author of THE SOULFUL ART OF PERSUASION; and Tricia Clarke-Stone and Antoinette M. Clarke, authors of DOUBLE DOWN. Hear from these exceptional trailblazers on the importance of both understanding the tools of our trades and emotionally connecting with the stories that we tell. And guess who channeled their grandmother and a special bedtime nursery rhyme during the recording! TOOLS AND WEAPONS by Brad Smith: https:/...

S4 E53: Padma Venkatraman, Peter McGough, and John Mauceri

September 10, 2019 15:24 - 16 minutes - 15.2 MB

In this episode meet Padma Venkatraman, author of A TIME TO DANCE; Peter McGough, author of I'VE SEEN THE FUTURE AND I'M NOT GOING; and John Mauceri, author of FOR THE LOVE OF MUSIC. A novel in verse about the power of dance. A memoir about life as an artist in 1980s New York City. An answer to the question, “why should we listen to classical music?” This week’s episode covers the many ways in which art affects our lives and the lives of those we encounter. Hear more about these authors’ be...

S4 E52: Library Edition, Part 5

September 05, 2019 14:43 - 5 minutes - 4.89 MB

In this special edition of our podcast This Is the Author, we’re celebrating Library Card Sign-up Month by asking celebrated children’s authors to share some of their favorite library memories. Listen to John Cena, Ann Bausum, Steve Sheinkin, and Adam Gidwitz share why libraries are so special to them, and why getting a library card is the first step to a lifetime of adventure!

S4 E51: Library Edition, Part 4

September 05, 2019 14:38 - 6 minutes - 6.13 MB

In this special edition of our podcast This Is the Author, we’re celebrating Library Card Sign-up Month by asking authors to share some of their favorite library memories. Listen to Gretchen Rubin, Mira Jacob, Laura Lynne Jackson, Elissa Altman, Emily Nussbaum, Ocean Vuong, Geraldine Brooks, and Jane Green share why libraries are so special to them.

S4 E50: Marie Forleo, Lee Hartley Carter, and Jorjeana Marie

September 03, 2019 17:18 - 17 minutes - 15.7 MB

In this episode, meet Marie Forleo, author of EVERYTHING IS FIGUREOUTABLE; Lee Hartley Carter, author of PERSUASION; and Jorjeana Marie, author of IMPROV FOR WRITERS. Whether it’s figuring out what stands between you and your dreams, crafting a persuasive message, or actualizing your artistic talents – each of these authors offer compelling insights and problem-solving tools that you can apply to both your personal and professional life. Find out what it was like for them to record their work...

S4 E49: Elissa Altman, Olivia Gatwood, and Caitlin Moscatello

August 27, 2019 20:58 - 13 minutes - 9.24 MB

In this episode, meet Elissa Altman, author of MOTHERLAND; Olivia Gatwood, author of LIFE OF THE PARTY; and Caitlin Moscatello, author of SEE JANE WIN. Whether they explored the mother-daughter relationship and the complexities of caregiving, tackling phobias through poetry, or the political campaigns of four female first-time candidates, these authors have all written and narrated timely and personal stories that will immediately pull you in. Find out what it was like for these authors to...

S4 E48: Ibram X. Kendi, Maggie Paxson, and Gretchen Rubin

August 21, 2019 21:11 - 14 minutes - 20.1 MB

In this episode meet Ibram X. Kendi, author of HOW TO BE AN ANTIRACIST; Maggie Paxson, author of THE PLATEAU; and Gretchen Rubin, author of FORTY WAYS TO LOOK AT WINSTON CHURCHILL. These authors have researched their subjects deeply, unearthing history and examining the stories of others. They’ve each found themselves personally moved by the power of history and how it is at work in all of our lives. Hear more about how recording these audiobooks affected them, and what “little” audiobook o...

S4 E47: Pablo Cartaya, Ibi Zoboi, and Natasha Diaz

August 21, 2019 21:02 - 18 minutes - 25.8 MB

In this episode, meet Pablo Cartaya, author of EACH TINY SPARK; Ibi Zoboi, author of MY LIFE AS AN ICE CREAM SANDWICH; and Natasha Diaz, author of COLOR ME IN. Each author has written a nuanced coming-of-age novel for kids and teens, featuring young characters looking to find their place within their communities, their friendship circles, and even their own families—without losing what is unique about themselves. Plus, find out why one of these authors picked “Pew!” as the best word to descr...

S4 E46: Sister Helen Prejean, Mat Best, and Mike Donehey

August 13, 2019 17:41 - 9 minutes - 12.7 MB

S4 E46: In this episode meet Sister Helen Prejean, author of RIVER OF FIRE; Mat Best, author of THANK YOU FOR MY SERVICE; and Mike Donehey, author of FINDING GOD’S LIFE FOR MY WILL. Each of these authors shares their personal story in an honest, authentic voice that will make listeners reconsider everything from religion to life in the army. And find out which author would cast Chris Pratt as their audiobook narrator. RIVER OF FIRE by Sister Helen Prejean: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudi...

S4 E44: Gretchen McCulloch, Jia Tolentino, and Carrie Goldberg

August 06, 2019 13:49 - 12 minutes - 17.1 MB

S4 E44: In this episode meet Gretchen McCulloch, author of BECAUSE INTERNET; Jia Tolentino, author of TRICK MIRROR; and Carrie Goldberg, author of NOBODY’S VICTIM. These women explore different facets of today’s culture and society—everything from the internet’s effect on language to reality TV and wedding culture to society’s treatment of victims of assault. Then find out which author finally took a stand in the gif (jiff) versus gif debate! Because Internet by Gretchen McCulloch: https://w...

S4 E45: Monica Swanson, Hannah Shaw, and Oren Klaff

August 06, 2019 13:20 - 12 minutes - 17.5 MB

S4 E45: In this episode meet Monica Swanson, author of BOY MOM; Hannah Shaw, author of TINY BUT MIGHTY; and Oren Klaff, author of FLIP THE SCRIPT. The life lessons these authors share will appeal to everyone from animal lovers to parents to business owners. Plus discover which author was inspired by the audiobook BIG MAGIC, by Elizabeth Gilbert. Boy Mom by Monica Swanson and Wendy Speake: https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/580301/boy-mom/ Tiny But Mighty by Hannah Shaw: https://ww...

S4 E43: Julianna Miner, Reverend Molly Baskette & Dr. Ellen O’Donnell, and Natalie Wexler

July 31, 2019 01:44 - 16 minutes - 22.8 MB

S4 E43: In this episode meet Julianna Miner, author of RAISING A SCREEN-SMART KID; Reverend Molly Baskette & Dr. Ellen O’Donnell, authors of BLESS THIS MESS; and Natalie Wexler, author of THE KNOWLEDGE GAP. When it comes to parenting and education, there is a lot of content out there, and this can feel overwhelming. These authors hope to share their knowledge and experience with listeners in order to educate and guide them. Plus find out why one author struggled with pronouncing the word ‘dat...

S4 E42: Mollie Hemingway, Janet Messineo, and Bruce Deel

July 23, 2019 13:15 - 8 minutes - 12.3 MB

S4 E42: In this episode meet Mollie Hemingway, co-author of JUSTICE ON TRIAL; Janet Messineo, author of CASTING INTO THE LIGHT; and Bruce Deel, author of TRUST FIRST. These audiobooks allow the listener to go behind the scenes of a monumental news event, to see through a woman’s point of view in the male-dominated world of fishing, and to become inspired to help others. Plus discover which author is excited for her mom to hear the audiobook. Justice on Trial by Mollie Hemingway and Carrie Se...

S4 E41: Danielle Weisberg and Carly Zakin, Kristy Shen, and Summer Rayne Oakes

July 16, 2019 20:33 - 13 minutes - 18.7 MB

S4 E41: In this episode meet Danielle Weisberg and Carly Zakin, authors of HOW TO SKIMM YOUR LIFE; Kristy Shen, co-author of QUIT LIKE A MILLIONAIRE; and Summer Rayne Oakes, author of HOW TO MAKE A PLANT LOVE YOU. With topics like making day-to-day tasks easier, learning about money, and caring for plants, these books were inspired by these women’s desire to help others. Plus, discover which author’s dream narrator is Lorelei King—the voice behind Stephanie Plum. How to Skimm Your Life by Th...

S4 E40: Vivian Mabuni, Laura Lynne Jackson, and Nathan Finochio

July 09, 2019 15:55 - 10 minutes - 15 MB

S4 E40: In this episode meet Vivian Mabuni, author of OPEN HANDS, WILLING HEART; Laura Lynne Jackson, author of SIGNS; and Nathan Finochio, author of HEARING GOD. These authors are all about connection and guidance, and their audiobooks will help you find your anchor and guide you to a fulfilled life by connecting to God, the Other Side, or to others. Plus find out why one author chose LITTLE FIRES EVERYWHERE as her last great audiobook listen. Open Hands, Willing Heart by Jennie Allen and V...

Guests

Adam Grant
1 Episode
Marie Forleo
1 Episode

Books

Born to Be Wild
1 Episode
Playing with Fire
1 Episode
The Common Good
1 Episode