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Olivia's Book ClubAnastasia Ryan, “You Should Smile More”Vanessa Blair is most definitely not living her dream life. She’s working as a telemarketer for a judgmental tyrant who wants her out because of her RBF. Her facial expression aside, she’s done everything expected of the employees and then some (hello, office Olympics?) For fans of movies like Office Space and the classic 9-5, Anastasia Ryan’s debut novel YOU SHOULD SMILE MORE is laugh out loud funny and disturbingly relatable to most anyone who has worked in a company claiming to embrace a meaningful corporate culture. When Vanessa and her peers turn her termin...2023-03-2131 minOlivia's Book ClubWilliam Landay, “All That is Mine I Carry With Me”For attorney turned novelist William Landay, the justice system is a complex beast, and the stories worth telling don’t often resolve simply. The intense emotion of uncertainty of what to believe is what propelled the narrative of William Landay’s 2012 bestselling novel DEFENDING JACOB, recently adapted as a limited series for Apple TV+. More than ten years later, Landay is back with a new family drama that also involves the courtroom. ALL THAT IS MINE I CARRY WITH ME begins with the disappearance of a suburban mother of three, Miranda Larkin, spouse of a promi...2023-03-1432 minOlivia's Book ClubSarah Penner, "The London Séance Society"Sarah joins the podcast to discuss her second novel, THE LONDON SEANCE SOCIETY. Book number two comes just two years after her instant New York Times #1 bestseller, THE LOST APOTHECARY. That literary tsunami-style splash was made on the heels of leaving a long, successful career working in finance. Yes, finance! Sarah talks with Olivia about her past career and the perk of traveling regularly to London, where she says, “she felt like I’d lived a previous life there. I felt so enchanted by the old brick alleyways... really enamored of it all. I knew I wanted to set my f...2023-03-0723 minOlivia's Book ClubWanda Morris, “Anywhere You Run”“When I tell you I’m living the dream Olivia, I’m living the dream!” Wanda Morris returns to the podcast to talk about her second novel, ANYWHERE YOU RUN, published by William Morrow in October, a follow up to her acclaimed debut, ALL HER LITTLE SECRETS. Wanda’s novel is what she calls a “coming of age story, with a few dead bodies thrown in,” is set in Jackson, Mississippi in 1964, focusing on sisters Marigold and Violet and how their lives change when they each leave the only home they’ve ever known, to save their own futures....2023-02-2819 minOlivia's Book ClubRachel Koller Croft, “Stone Cold Fox”Screenwriter Rachel Koller Croft’s debut novel STONE COLD FOX is a deliciously wicked thriller about a gorgeous woman who has no intention of letting anyone or anything (even her own truth) get in the way of the way of a ring on her finger and millions in the bank. Rachel joins the podcast to talk to Olivia about the story, the journey to get a publisher to say yes, and which character in the book is loosely inspired by someone in her life. STONE COLD FOX is out February 14, 2023 in hardcover from Berkley, and the audiobook is...2023-02-1436 minOlivia's Book ClubBarbara VanDenburgh, USA TODAY Books EditorThere aren’t many people around who read more than Barbara VanDenburgh, the former Arizona Republic writer turned USA Today Books Editor. When she’s not reading or writing about books, she’s talking about them, as host of the First Draft Book Club at Changing Hands Bookstore in Phoenix. Barbara joined the podcast to share some of the early 2023 books she’s most excited about, including the current pick for her book club: NIGHT WHEREVER WE GO, Tracey Rose Peyton LIFE ON DELAY: MAKING PEACE WITH A STUTTER, John Hendrickson VICTORY CITY, Salman R...2023-02-0738 minOlivia's Book ClubElle Cosimano, “Finlay Donovan Jumps the Gun”When a misunderstanding at a Panera results in an offer that’s impossible to refuse, Elle Cosimano’s title character springs to life for readers who can’t help but root for her heroine to find love, money, and kick a lot of butt along the way. Elle returns to the podcast to talk to Olivia about the third book in her series, FINLAY DONOVAN JUMPS THE GUN. This time we see Finlay and her bestie/nanny/accountant, Vero, head off to a citizen’s police academy that puts her right in the focus of the police, for bett...2023-01-3123 minOlivia's Book ClubDani Shapiro, "Signal Fires"Dani Shapiro is the author of eleven books, and the host and creator of the hit podcast Family Secrets. She joined the podcast to talk with Olivia about her most recent novel, SIGNAL FIRES, her first work of fiction in thirteen years. SIGNAL FIRES was named a best book of 2022 by numerous publications, including Time Magazine, and The Washington Post. Dani tells Olivia about how the idea for SIGNAL FIRES first struck her years ago, and that she felt only recently capable of crafting the moving story in part due to her life experience in recent years...2023-01-2443 minOlivia's Book ClubValerie Tejeda, "Self Care by the Signs"2023 is going to be a good year according to astrologer Valerie Tejeda. Tejeda is a bestselling author, an astrologer with a degree in psychology and certificates in astrology and music therapy, and the creator of the digital brand Big Cosmic Energy. She is the writer and narrator of SELF CARE BY THE SIGNS, a #1 Audible bestseller, a #1 Amazon bestseller, an AP bestseller, as well as SELF CARE BY THE MOON, an Audible Top 10 Listen and Editor's Pick for a 2021 favorite in self-development. She joins the podcast to chat with Olivia (in spite of Mercury being in retrograde...2023-01-1734 minOlivia's Book ClubMary Kubica, “Just The Nicest Couple”Queen of suspense Mary Kubica opens the year with her latest suspenseful mystery, JUST THE NICEST COUPLE, to be released January 10th. The New York Times and USA Today bestselling author joins the podcast to talk about her twisty tale of two seemingly perfect couples, and the secrets that are exposed between them when one of the husbands disappears. Mary joins the podcast to talk with Olivia about her previous career as a teacher, how she constructs her storylines, and how motherhood helped to launch her successful career. Mary will celebrate her books birthday with an event a...2023-01-0331 minOlivia's Book ClubKiersten Modglin, “A Quiet Retreat”“You are cordially invited to visit the new Black Hills Manor Writing Retreat,” says the invitation received by five mystery/thriller writers, what could go wrong? That’s the lure that leads protagonist Blakely to a remote southern manor with a dark history in Kiersten Modglin’s novel, A QUIET RETREAT. Kiersten joins the podcast to talk to Olivia about writing strong women who save themselves, how she maintains her intense writing schedule with a goal of a book every other month (!), and why she can only enjoy her own fiction, such as IF YOU’RE READING THIS, once it becomes...2022-12-2732 minOlivia's Book ClubSANTA, BRING US THE BOOKS (and Mary Kay Andrews!)The countdown to Christmas is ON! Whether you’re looking for the festive audiobook to listen to while shopping or gift wrapping, or a gift idea for the bookworm on your nice list, this episode is here for you. Olivia shares recommendations and future holiday favorites straight from her own TBR. This is followed by a revisiting of a festive 2021 conversation with New York Times bestselling novelist Mary Kay Andrews, author of THE SANTA SUIT. Also mentioned in this episode: HOLIDAYS ON ICE, David Sedaris SKIPPING CHRISTMAS, John Grisham LOVE ALWAYS, CHRI...2022-12-2036 minOlivia's Book ClubBen Lytle, “The Potentialist: Your Future in the New Reality of the Next Thirty Years”Ben Lytle is a potentialist and invites all readers of his book to become one as well. He joins the podcast this week to discuss with Olivia the philosophy of potentialism, including his annual ritual of self-assessment, asking himself “am I doing what's making me happy? Am I contributing to life in the way I want to? Doing that, for me has always kept me vibrant.” When Lytle began outlining what became his debut book, THE POTENTIALIST: YOUR FUTURE IN THE NEW REALITY OF THE NEXT THIRTY YEARS, his intended audience was exclusively the future generations of his...2022-12-0643 minOlivia's Book ClubKatherine Corcoran, “IN THE MOUTH OF THE WOLF: A Murder, a Coverup, and the True Cost of Silencing the Press”“We are actually heading into the direction of Mexico, while Mexico is trying to be more like us, a country of free press that supports the free press,” says Katherine Corcoran about the emergence of independent journalism in Mexico that has simultaneously sparked a rise in violence against journalists. Corcoran joined the podcast to talk with Olivia about her non-fiction book, IN THE MOUTH OF THE WOLF: A Murder, A Cover-Up, And The True Cost of Silencing The Press. Corcoran’s work as a bureau chief for the Associated Press gave her the interest and the access to beg...2022-11-2940 minOlivia's Book ClubBooks We Are Thankful For, with Whitney ClarkWhoa, the holidays are upon us (and the cost of dinner is up 20% on average!) So, let’s talk about what we’re thankful for: BOOKS! In particular the really special ones that stay with us well past the last page. News anchor Whitney Clark is an avid reader (44 books and counting this year) and shares her top five for 2022 on this week’s podcast. Olivia couldn’t stick to such a tight list, but shares a few others that are worth recommending. So escape the family, close the bedroom door and enjoy this reading list! Whitney...2022-11-2240 minOlivia's Book ClubNora McInerny, “Bad Vibes Only (And Other Things I Bring to the Table)"When Nora and her husband Aaron collaborated on his obituary her grief was introduced to the world, alongside the creative spirit and humor she and her son’s dad shared. Since then, Nora has become a beloved voice for others trying to see their way out of the darkness- or want to know how to support someone else who is in the thick of the worst. Nora is the host of the podcast “Terrible, Thanks for Asking” and joined the Olivia’s Book Club podcast to talk about her new collection of essays, BAD VIBES ONLY (And Other Things I Bring...2022-11-0835 minOlivia's Book ClubLisa Unger, "Secluded Cabin Sleeps Six"Luxury cabin out in the middle of nowhere, what could go wrong? Readers of the November thriller SECLUDED CABIN SLEEPS SIX. “I’ve been writing since I was a kid. I never wanted to do anything else but write- ever. The fact that I get to do it… to live in this world of stories and characters and I get to share them with people, not just my mom, not just my grandma,” Lisa Unger says with a laugh about her career she considers to be “a dream come true.” New York Times bestselling author Lisa Unger j...2022-11-0131 minOlivia's Book ClubSulari Gentill, "The Woman in the Library"“Things like structural edits, what the characters do, that’s really the choice of the writer,” quips Sulari Gentill, while discussing communications with the devoted fan base of her Rowland Sinclair series, and her new stand-alone literary mystery, THE WOMAN IN THE LIBRARY. All the way from Australia, the author chats with Olivia in the Arizona podcast studio before meeting her readers and leading writing workshops at The Poisoned Pen Bookstore in Scottsdale. Sulari talks about playing with genre and the blurring of fact and fiction, with her novel about a novel, written by protagonist Hannah...2022-10-2546 minOlivia's Book ClubA Moment With MargaretIt has been too long since the podcast caught up on what Margaret is reading. Olivia’s favorite reader to turn to for book recommendations, the once weekly A Moment With Margaret conversation is the sole focus of this week’s podcast! Devoted audiobook listener and reality TV watcher, Margaret shares the books she consumed over the last few months and the emoji that best captures her feelings about each one. She talks with Olivia about her reasoning for each, and they discover they disagree about at least one review! Here’s her list of books to hel...2022-10-1851 minOlivia's Book ClubAlex Finlay, "The Night Shift"When writing the conversations between teenagers targeted in a 1999 New Year’s Eve massacre at a Blockbuster video in THE NIGHT SHIFT, Alex Finlay says he tapped into the years of eavesdropping while shuttling kids to activities, “you become invisible to your kids and their friends.” Finlay, who writes under a pen name, is an appellate lawyer who is following up his hit thriller EVERY LAST FEAR with THE NIGHT SHIFT. He joins the podcast to talk with Olivia about the book, his writing process, the old manuscript he dug up that he can objectively say now was not...2022-10-1128 minOlivia's Book ClubLaurie Lico Albanese, "Hester"Laurie Lico Albanese, author of HESTER, a reimagining of the story behind THE SCARLET LETTER, joins the podcast to talk about her latest work of historical fiction. The story focuses on Isobel Gamble, a seamstress who moves from Scotland to Salem, Massachusetts in the early 1800s. Laurie says her heroine’s “gift is her curse, and her curse is her gift,” who is descended from an accused witch and ends up crossing paths with Nathaniel Hawthorne. She talks about the research that went into writing the book, shares advice for writers on approaching historical fiction, her own relati...2022-10-0425 minOlivia's Book ClubMichelle Wolett of Once Upon a Book Club Once Upon a Book Club is a bookworm’s dream come true: a monthly delivery service of an oversized book box filled with a surprise book selection and an array of specially curated gifts to bring that book to life. The Arizona based business is the brainchild of Michelle Wolett, who also owns Chick-Lit Designs (recreating favorite books into cell phone and tablet cases). Michelle joined Olivia for the podcast to talk about the business that originated as a gift for her Mom- to motivate her to read Kristin Hannah’s THE NIGHTINGALE. Michelle tells Olivia about how she quickly went...2022-09-1335 minOlivia's Book ClubAmina Akhtar, “Kismet”Amina Akhtar is a former fashion writer turned novelist, who uses her current home of Arizona as the setting for her thriller KISMET, where enlightenment and danger go hand in hand. Amina joins the podcast to talk about the book, her move from NYC to just outside Sedona, and writing a character that reflects her own culture and color. “I was trying to find out what kind of person would want a guru,” recalls novelist Amina Akhtar when crafting her KISMET protagonist, Ronnie Khan, the character who ultimately follows Marley Dewhurst, “a Gwyneth Paltrow wannabe” to Sedon...2022-09-0627 minOlivia's Book ClubKarin Slaughter, “Girl Forgotten”Karin Slaughter is the author of more than twenty instant New York Times bestselling novels, and she joins the podcast to talk to Olivia about her latest work of crime fiction and her passion project, the non-profit Save the Libraries. “I primarily think she did it to annoy her mother,” says Karin, of protagonist Andrea’s career as a US Marshal in her new novel GIRL, FORGOTTEN. GIRL, FORGOTTEN revisits the characters her readers and viewers of the Netflix series “Pieces of Her” already know, as Andrea completes her training and begins a specialized protection detail tha...2022-08-3018 minOlivia's Book ClubJennifer Hillier, “Things We Do In the Dark”“Jimmy was one of my favorite characters… even though he’s dead. Dead from the first word!” declares Jennifer Hillier, when talking about the character of Jimmy Peralta in her new thriller, THINGS WE DO IN THE DARK. When Jimmy is found dead, his wife Paris is arrested for his murder. Jennifer joins Olivia on the podcast to talk about her approach to the plot, why this book feels her most authentic yet, how distance learning and her writing collided, all-nighters, chicken adobo, and more. Jennifer Hillier is an award...2022-08-2328 minOlivia's Book ClubDolen Perkins-Valdez, “Take My Hand”Historical fiction at its finest, TAKE MY HAND is a fictional retelling of a truly shocking practice in Alabama in the early 1970s: the forced sterilization of poor, mostly Black, women and girls. Dolen Perkins-Valdez joins the podcast to talk with Olivia about the moving novel, told from the perspective of Civil Townsend, a nurse at the Montgomery Family Planning Clinic, who must advocate for her patients in ways she never expected. After researching the history of the time and events, she approached the fiction with an emotional question: “What would it have been like to be a...2022-08-1635 minOlivia's Book ClubBonnie Garmus, “Lessons In Chemistry”Widely praised as one of the best books of 2022, LESSONS IN CHEMISTRY is the debut novel about the reluctant host of 1960s cooking show from Bonnie Garmus. Bonnie joins Olivia for the podcast to talk about the sensation of debuting as a bestseller decades after first dreaming of becoming a novelist, and her own frustrating professional moment that sparked the unique character of Elizabeth Zott. LESSONS IN CHEMISTRY is now in production as a limited series for Apple+ starring Brie Larsen, and Bonnie is working on a new novel. For more on the author visit: https://www...2022-08-0936 minOlivia's Book ClubJulia Whelan, “Thank You For Listening”Julia Whelan is a multi-hyphenate, multi-talented actor and writer. Her new novel, THANK YOU FOR LISTENING, is published by AVON Books (8/2 release.) When not writing, you’ll find her narrating for authors like Kristin Hannah, Taylor Jenkins Reid and Gillian Flynn, she’s earned endless accolades: Earphone Awards, Audies, Society of Voice Awards, even honored with Audiofile Magazine’s Lifetime Achievement Golden Voice Award in 2020. Julia’s also an accomplished actress who debuted on ABC’s Once and Again at the age of 14. The audiobook industry is the setting for Julia’s second novel, THANK...2022-08-0251 minOlivia's Book ClubKatherine Center, “The Bodyguard”“Like, is that too fun?” Katherine Center says she wondered, about THE BODYGUARD plot that places Hannah, an executive protection agent, in the enviable position of posing as the girlfriend of a handsome movie star named Jack Stapleton. Originally considered more grounded careers for her client of Hannah’s protection (scientists, etc.,) Katherine tells Olivia that ultimately “during the pandemic, there was no such thing as too fun, we went maximum fun,” adding that she felt compelled to write the type of book she wanted to read in a moment of life that felt too dark and too serious. On h...2022-07-2631 minOlivia's Book ClubDavid Ellis, “Look Closer”LOOK CLOSER is a wildly entertaining domestic thriller with so many twists and turns - even the savviest readers will fail to figure out who or what to believe until the very last page. The story centers on Simon and Vicky, a Chicago couple approaching ten years of marriage, and what (if any) connection they have to a woman found dead in a neighboring suburb. Author David Ellis joins the podcast to talk to Olivia about writing a tricky plot, his previous work with James Patterson, and discusses his other career: as a Justice of the Illinois Appellate Court...2022-07-1927 minOlivia's Book ClubDelia Owens, “Where the Crawdads Sing”Delia Owens’ marsh girl story is a fiction phenom, on the bestseller lists 166 weeks and counting, and holds the New York Times Bestseller List record for the most weeks at #1. The WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING novelist joins the podcast to talk to Olivia about seeing her story made for the big screen, and “meeting” the characters she imagined, on the set of the Hello Sunshine and 3000 Pictures film. Owens shares who inspired the title of the book and movie, and updates the status of her next novel. “Where the Crawdads Sing” is in theaters today, Rated PG-13. The book i...2022-07-1542 minOlivia's Book ClubDaniel Seddiqui, “Piecing Together America”Summertime is road trip season, and this week’s podcast guest is the perfect guide to inspire our sense of adventure. Daniel Seddiqui joins Olivia to talk about his new book, “Piecing Together America: Serving the Best Features and Craftsmanship of Every Major City,” and the original book that put him on the map,”50 Jobs in 50 States.” Daniel reflects on some of his most rewarding moments, encourages consumers to buy American, and shares some of his strategies for connecting with people anywhere, anytime, to find common ground and make friends of strangers. For more on his epic a...2022-07-1228 minOlivia's Book ClubJenny Mollen, “City of Likes”When Meg Chernoff moves from LA to NYC and becomes friends with Instagram influencer Daphne, everything changes, including her own priorities. Jenny Mollen, the New York Times bestselling author of I LIKE YOU JUST THE WAY I AM and LIVE FAST, DIE HOT joins the podcast to talk with Olivia about her first novel. Celebrity status and the feeling of being celebrity adjacent is a concept that Jenny knows well, as daughter to Arizona TV favorite, Dr. Art Mollen, and wife to actor Jason Biggs. In the way only Jenny has, she describes the motivation and drive...2022-07-0531 minOlivia's Book ClubTaylor Hahn, “The Lifestyle”A very modern, NYC retelling of the Jane Austen classic, “Emma,” Taylor Hahn’s “The Lifestyle” is a beach read that will make you blush! The lawyer turned novelist joins Olivia in the podcast studio of her Arizona hometown to talk about the research she did- and didn’t do- to learn the swinger lifestyle for her sexy story. The married attorney turned novelist talked about the eye-opening research that went into writing the story of Georgina Wagman (think Cher from Clueless, but smart and grown up,) and her sex-positive solution to saving her marriage after catching her husband...2022-06-2841 minOlivia's Book ClubRiley Sager, "The House Across The Lake"Relaxing lakeside is not an option while reading Riley Sager’s latest, THE HOUSE ACROSS THE LAKE. His latest twisty, creepy, suspenseful novel takes readers away to a family vacation home in Vermont where actress Casey Fletcher can hide out after the loss of her husband and a very public meltdown. The arrival of a high-profile couple who bought the house across the lake, Katherine and Tom Royce, changes things for Casey in ways she’d never expect. Riley returns to the podcast to talk about the lake view that inspired the novel, heading out on tour for...2022-06-2130 minOlivia's Book ClubCarola Lovering "Can't Look Away"CAN’T LOOK AWAY is a romantic suspense novel from Carola Lovering, that follows the 2013 romance between Molly Diamond and Jake Danner, and the love that inspires the hit, “Molly’s Song.” Carola joins the podcast to chat with Olivia about the story, plot surprises, and the thrill of visiting the set of TELL ME LIES, her 2018 novel that’s headed to Hulu as an original series. CAN’T LOOK AWAY is published by St. Martin’s Press and is available on audio from Macmillan Audio June 14, 2022 . A Moment With Margaret: Margaret recom...2022-06-1442 minOlivia's Book ClubJennifer Weiner, “The Summer Place"Why would a bestselling novelist put a stick of butter in her bra—and who notices when she does? These questions and more are answered when the Queen of the Beach read Jennifer Weiner returns to the podcast. Her latest novel, THE SUMMER PLACE takes readers back to Cape Cod and delivers what we always expect in the pages of her novels: complex, intriguing characters who you care about and root for, and a plot that will deliver surprises. THE SUMMER PLACE is a family drama that plays out through the pandemic- where relationships are sh...2022-06-0727 minOlivia's Book ClubNina LaCour, "Yerba Buena"With many YA novels to her credit already, Nina LaCour releases YERBA BUENA, her first adult novel. YERBA BUENA is a moving story of overcoming loss, learning to love, and what it means to find a place to call home. Nina talks with Olivia in this episode about crafting the love story of Sara and Emilie, the necessary research (mixing and drinking cocktails) required for writing mixologist Sara, and her book’s Los Angeles setting. Nina LaCour is also the author of a children’s book, MAMA AND MOMMY AND ME IN THE MIDDLE, a passion project inspired by her...2022-05-3138 minOlivia's Book ClubA Look Back (in Paperback)Olivia’s Book Club Podcast has survived its first year! The podcast launched on May 17, 2021 with three episodes featuring novelists Kristin Hannah, Donna Freitas, and Jennifer Weiner, and book recommendations from Margaret Stewart. This week, the podcast looks back at a few past conversations with writers whose books are now beach-bag ready in paperback. Don’t pack for your Memorial Day weekend without listening to these book recommendations! Debut novelists Zakiya Dalila Harris (THE OTHER BLACK GIRL,) Ashley Audrain (THE PUSH,) and T.J. Newman (FALLING) share their journeys to publishing a buzz-worthy book. Bo...2022-05-2434 minOlivia's Book ClubChristina Lauren, “Something Wilder"Lovingly known as the “reigning romance queens” (PopSugar), the writing duo known as Christina Lauren are as lovable as a pair of friends as they are successful as a writing team. Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings join the podcast to talk with Olivia about their new book, SOMETHING WILDER, a wildly exciting romantic adventure set in Utah involving a treasure hunt and a second chance romance. Christina and Lauren talk about the way they collaborate (and why they were already prepped for pandemic life), their love for BTS, putting Lauren’s PhD in neuroscience to use in THE SO...2022-05-1242 minOlivia's Book ClubJeneva Rose, "One of Us is Dead"“Sometimes friendship can be deadly.” In ONE OF US IS DEAD, Jeneva Rose delivers a deliciously dramatic thriller written from the perspectives of four women in the posh Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta, where Southern civility and hospitality is for show only. Jeneva Rose joins the podcast to talk about her approach to writing the novel, and how she uses her previous career in social media marketing to promote THE PERFECT MARRIAGE on #booktok, and the hilariously awkward (and successful) outcome. She talks to Olivia about her unique approach to writing the book blurb before the book, and the...2022-05-1042 minOlivia's Book ClubDon Winslow, "City on Fire"Don Winslow turns to the Greek tragedies for inspiration in what the author says is not only his last trilogy, but will be his last published books. CITY ON FIRE is the first of the three novels, and the first book Don has set in his hometown of Providence. The internationally bestselling author talks with Olivia on the cusp of his retirement from writing about crafting characters like Danny Ryan, who feels intimately familiar to him, or reworking a literal goddess into a contemporary and complex character. Don talks with Olivia about connecting with emerging writers like...2022-05-0332 minOlivia's Book ClubAbby Jimenez, "Part of Your World"Abby Jimenez just may be the most interesting woman in the world! She’s competed on the Food Network, is the owner of Nadia Cakes, a bakery that ships all across the country, and is a bestselling author (not to mention mom to pets who are very popular on social media.) She joins the podcast to talk about her new novel “Part of Your World,” which she describes as an “age gap, social gap romance” about Alexis Montgomery and Daniel Grant, a doctor and carpenter who meet-cute when she’s driving through town and her car gets stuck in the...2022-04-2639 minOlivia's Book ClubGilly Macmillan, "The Long Weekend"Bestselling author of THE NANNY, Gilly Macmillan, joins the podcast to discuss her newest thriller, THE LONG WEEKEND. Set in the isolated Dark Fell Barn, where three women are on edge as they receive a threatening note that one of their husbands will be murdered. Gilly talks with Olivia about the characters, the importance of the isolation of the environment for building the tension, and an old movie called “A Letter to Three Wives” that sparked her idea. “It’s a kind of messy process but it’s the only one I know, really,” she says of working her...2022-04-1925 minOlivia's Book ClubErika Krouse, "Tell Me Everything"Erika Krouse is a writer of both fiction and nonfiction, who joins the podcast to discuss her book, TELL ME EVERYTHING: THE STORY OF A PRIVATE INVESTIGATION. This is a memoir focused on a tale of true crime which parallels the narrator's personal history. This is a moving, painful story of power, powerlessness, and the way lives are left shattered when the system doesn't protect those who need it. In her book, Erika describes herself as simultaneously "forgettable" and "familiar," but ultimately she's the kind of person others will share their secrets with. This quality, paired with...2022-04-1240 minOlivia's Book ClubSally Hepworth, “The Younger Wife”A wedding ceremony is pierced by a scream, that sets the scene for Sally Hepworth’s latest suspenseful thriller, THE YOUNGER WIFE, told by alternating narrators. Full of the twists and unreliable family memories and histories Hepworth is famous for, her new novel focuses on two sisters, Tully and Rachel, and how their lives change when they meet their seemingly perfect father’s new fiancée, Heather. Sally returns to the podcast to discuss the book, post-pandemic life, and the challenges (and joys) of reading books, in addition to writing them. In A Moment With Margar...2022-04-0540 minOlivia's Book ClubPeng Shepherd, "The Cartographers"“The process of writing felt very much like a scavenger hunt. I would have one clue, then I as the writer also didn’t know, like the reader, where it led,” says Peng Shepherd of her new novel, THE CARTOGRAPHERS, when in-studio for the podcast. Peng shares her interest in cartography, her lifelong passion for stories, and how she approached the follow up to her highly successful 2019 debut, THE BOOK OF M. Olivia and Peng were joined by her mother, Lin Sue Flood, a former longtime Phoenix news anchor and full-time proud parent. Lin Sue talked...2022-03-2933 minOlivia's Book ClubWanda M. Morris, “All Her Little Secrets”Ellice Littlejohn has succeeded as corporate attorney in Atlanta -in spite of her many secrets. A secret affair, a secret hidden crime, a childhood full of chaos and poverty she’d like to keep secret from colleagues and even friends. Secrets come to the service when her boss is killed, and Ellice responds in the only way she knows how: with more secrets. Wanda M. Morris joins the podcast to talk about her debut novel, ALL HER LITTLE SECRETS. Morris is a corporate attorney who aspired to write a book for years, starting and stopping this one mu...2022-03-2245 minOlivia's Book ClubMaggie Smith, "Truth and Other Lies"Maggie Smith’s debut novel, TRUTH AND OTHER LIES, is the fascinating story of three women and the secrets and lies that connect them, shape them, and threaten them. A journalist, psychologist, podcast host and business owner, Maggie joins the podcast to talk about what inspired the book. Maggie talks about using her own life experience writing the relationship Megan and her mother, the political candidate. The book tackles politics, family dynamics, professional identity, and what happens when you look deeper beyond the facades of those you admire, and those you resent. Margaret and Olivia discuss sharing a...2022-03-1537 minOlivia's Book ClubGreer Hendricks & Sarah Pekkanen, "The Golden Couple""The Golden Couple" is the latest thriller from bestselling writing duo Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen. Their latest page-turner focuses on therapist Avery Chambers' unorthodox 10 session treatment program, and her clients, Marissa and Matthew Bishop. Gorgeous and glamorous, the Bishops' marriage is plagued by secrets and lies that are about to be brought to the surface by Avery. Greer & Sarah talked with Olivia on the podcast about the book, the perks of writing as a team, and share advice for aspiring writers. A Moment With Margaret: Olivia & Margaret discuss other new releases this week that M...2022-03-0834 minOlivia's Book ClubRebecca Serle, “One Italian Summer”Rebecca Serle is taking readers to Positano, Italy in her latest novel, “One Italian Summer.” The story follows Katy, who, in the depths of grief after her mother’s death, goes alone on a planned mother-daughter trip to the Amalfi Coast. Rebecca joins the podcast this week to talk about writing the emotional novel about a daughter’s love for her mother, the inevitable future of defining yourself after you lose your parents and her fears of losing her own parents. She talks about curiosities surrounding your parent’s life before yours, “memory is fiction,” she says. Rebecca shares an incredible m...2022-03-0126 minOlivia's Book ClubEve Rodsky, “Find Your Unicorn Space”When Eve Rodsky applied her expertise in organizational management to making her own household and partnership become more manageable and equitable, she sparked a movement among readers of her first book “Fair Play.” Now, Eve is back to chat with Olivia about her new book, “Find Your Unicorn Space: Reclaim Your Creative Life in a Too-Busy World.” Here, Eve uses this podcast as an example of what a unicorn space can be, involving creativity, connection, and a sense of completion. She talks about the pandemic’s impact on personal space, and the challenge most of us face when claimi...2022-02-2233 minOlivia's Book ClubEve Rodsky, “Find Your Unicorn Space”When Eve Rodsky applied her expertise in organizational management to making her own household and partnership become more manageable and equitable, she sparked a movement among readers of her first book “Fair Play.” Now, Eve is back to chat with Olivia about her new book, “Find Your Unicorn Space: Reclaim Your Creative Life in a Too-Busy World.” Here, Eve uses this podcast as an example of what a unicorn space can be, involving creativity, connection, and a sense of completion. She talks about the pandemic’s impact on personal space, and the challenge most of us face when claimi...2022-02-2133 minOlivia's Book ClubA ‘Bromance’ With Romance NovelsValentine’s Day vibes on this week’s podcast, with Tim Xayasomloth, bookseller at Changing Hands Bookstore. Tim has become known as "The Romance Guy" at the store ever since he challenged himself to read genres outside his fantasy and science fiction favorites, and found he loved the contemporary romance! Comparing a romance novel to a tasty margarita that “goes down easy,” Tim explains to Olivia why he believes men can benefit from reading romance to understand how to be a better guy and better partner. Tim talks about the book that started him off: “The Bromance Book Club”...2022-02-1525 minOlivia's Book ClubLisa Harding, “Bright Burning Things”Irish writer Lisa Harding makes her American literary debut with the highly acclaimed novel, “Bright Burning Things.” Harding writes an emotionally powerful story of Sonya, an actress and single mother who is spiraling out of control, battling alcoholism and trauma. Her four-year-old son, Tommy, is simultaneously Sonya’s lifeline and her prison as the pressures of motherhood push her to her limits. The child is heartbreakingly saddled with playing the role of adult, adoring his mother, and anxiously navigating his unstable environment. Lisa joined the podcast from Dublin to talk about this emotionally raw story: her desire to tell a stor...2022-02-0851 minOlivia's Book ClubElle Cosimano, “Finlay Donovan Knocks ‘Em Dead”Grab your favorite soup or sandwich from Panera and settle in for a chat with Elle Cosimano – don’t worry, no spoilers! The beloved Finlay is back and smack dab in the middle of yet another wonderful mess in Elle Cosimano’s February 1st release, “Finlay Donovan Knocks ‘Em Dead,” the follow up to her hit, “Finlay Donovan Is Killing It.” In this story Finlay and Vero must sort out who is after her ex-husband Steven, and what they can do to protect him, or if they want to. Throw in plenty of secrets, lies, disguises and lov...2022-02-0150 minOlivia's Book ClubKatherine Faulkner, "Greenwich Park"Katherine Faulkner has an impressive new title to add to an already impressive (or posh) resume. The Cambridge grad is the Head of News Projects for The Sunday Times, and now a debut novelist, with the release of “Greenwich Park” from Gallery Books. The story centers around Helen, a complicated and often socially awkward woman who- after many miscarriages is pregnant again and carrying her baby to term. Helen falls into an unusual friendship with Rachel, a fellow expectant mom who quickly and deliberately inserts herself into Helen’s life for mysterious reasons. The book is a psychol...2022-01-2546 minOlivia's Book ClubColleen Hoover, "Reminders Of Him"Colleen Hoover is a publishing phenomenon, dominating bestseller lists with her catalog of novels week after week. She is a writer who breaks the rules, gliding between traditional publishing houses to self-publishing with ease, and who refuses to limit herself to genre or expectations. Her ability to create complex, emotionally relatable characters make her readers a devoted fanbase who would never miss a Hoover release and are committed to sharing their favorites with other readers online, effectively creating a volunteer publicity machine for work. Colleen joins Olivia on the podcast this week to talk about her emotional...2022-01-1852 minOlivia's Book ClubRachel Hawkins, “Reckless Girls”Rachel Hawkins’ 2020 release of “The Wife Upstairs” was a huge hit. The contemporary thriller inspired by “Jane Eyre” was the first release outside of the YA genre and showed she can craft a page-turner for a variety of audiences. Rachel talks with Olivia about “Reckless Girls” (published January 2022) that tracks Lux and her boyfriend Nico as they sail off from Hawaii in search of Meroe Island, a remote location with a dark, menacing history with other twenty-somethings in search of adventure and packed with secrets. Rachel talks about her recent success under the pseudonym Erin Sterling, choosing a new name, he...2022-01-1148 minOlivia's Book ClubGabriela Garcia, “Of Women and Salt”For the first podcast of 2022, we are joined by an author whose ‘buzzed about’ 2021 debut novel is now available in paperback. Gabriela Garcia’s “Of Women and Salt” was named a Best Book of the Year (2020) by Marie Claire, Harper’s Bazaar, and The Boston Globe. The novel is a multi-generational story of women, taking readers from nineteenth-century Cuba, to present-day Mexico, Miami, and the immigrant detention centers in Texas along the southern border. “Of Women and Salt” explores the experiences of women through the lens of class, privilege, citizenship, motherhood, addiction, poverty and trauma, and with subtlety spotlig...2022-01-0437 minOlivia's Book ClubKristi Nelson, “Wake Up Grateful”“It’s not happiness that makes us grateful, it’s gratefulness that makes us happy” – Kristi Nelson Kristi Nelson brings her powerful message of the transformative practice of grateful living to the last podcast episode of the year. The author of “Wake Up Grateful” guides readers through the ways you can change your life and perspective for the better, and the ways this shift is proven to improve your life and even your health. Executive Director of A Network for Grateful Living talks with Olivia about how to begin the practice, and the ways the lens of gratitude creat...2021-12-2845 minOlivia's Book ClubMary Kay Andrews, “The Santa Suit”Brace yourself for some serious Christmas magic! New York Times bestselling author of 29 novels (and counting), Mary Kay Andrews joins the podcast to talk about “The Santa Suit” the book she calls “a delicious, sweet, peppermint scented goodie.” The novella celebrates the magic of Christmas and second chances with a tale of a new beginning for Ivy Perkins, who is starting over personally and professionally with the purchase of The Four Roses farmhouse. Mary Kay and Olivia chat about Friends & Fiction, which she co-founded and co-hosts, MKA’s skills at treasure hunting, hosting, and design, her early years as a...2021-12-2139 minOlivia's Book ClubKaren Schaler, “A Royal Christmas Fairy Tale”Grab a cup of cocoa and get cozy by the Christmas tree for this visit with Karen Schaler, author of new holiday romance, “A Royal Christmas Fairy Tale.” Entertainment Weekly calls her a “holiday publishing darling” who is equally successful as a novelist and screenwriter, with holiday films like Christmas Camp and A Christmas Prince among her credits. Before she was known as “Christmas Karen” – she had a successful career as a television news reporter. On the podcast, she talks with Olivia about making the transition from covering tragedies to creating festive magic full time. In a Moment With Mar...2021-12-1440 minOlivia's Book ClubJeff Kinney, “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Big Shot”Jeff Kinney is the creative mind behind one of the most successful book series for kids of all time. He joins the podcast to talk about his latest projects: “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Big Shot,” the sixteenth in the series, and the animated film, “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” currently on Disney+. He talks with Olivia about why his characters should never grow up, the perks of running a bookstore, and reacts to recent efforts to ban books across the country. In a Moment With Margaret, the two talk about the early books that paved th...2021-12-0735 minOlivia's Book ClubMaria Amparo Escandon, “L.A. Weather”“L.A. Weather” tells the story of one very tumultuous year in the life of the Alvarado family. Successful Mexican-Americans living and working in Los Angeles, the three adult daughters maintain a commitment of meeting their parents for weekly family dinners to share their passion for food, and commitment to family. Author Maria Amparo Escandon joins the podcast to talk about the narrative technique she uses in the novel: taking the reader through the dramatic year that changes each character profoundly, month my month, and who in her own life inspired the patriarch’s unsettling preoccupation with the wea...2021-11-3039 minOlivia's Book ClubChristine Pride and Jo Piazza, “We Are Not Like Them”When an unarmed Black teenager is shot by police while walking home from school, the grief and outrage ripples through the city of Philadelphia in the novel “We Are Not Like Them.” The shooting calls for changes in policing, revealing deep divisions among those who experience systemic racism and those who deny it exists. For lifelong best friends Jen and Riley, the shooting is a deeply personal crisis that threatens to rip them apart for good. Christine Pride and Jo Piazza join the podcast to talk about writing this deeply moving book together, navigating their own obstacles to openly discus...2021-11-2346 minOlivia's Book ClubEric Rickstad, “I Am Not Who You Think I Am”Erick Rickstad is a New York Times and international bestselling author of novels including “What Remains of Her” and “The Silent Girls.” He joined the podcast to talk to Olivia about his latest dark, psychological mystery, “I Am Not Who You Think I Am.” It’s a tale that starts in 1976, with a tragic act of violence witnessed by then 8-year-old Maynard, who is not only shaped by the trauma and loss, but by the mounting pressure of keeping a secret from that day he grows to regret. The core of the story focuses on a teenage Maynard, convinced he has a myste...2021-11-1640 minOlivia's Book ClubVera Kurian, “Never Saw Me Coming”Seven psychopaths enjoy a free ride to a prestigious east coast school, in exchange for being participating in a psychopathy study. What could go wrong? For one, students keep getting killed. One study participant, Chloe, isn’t at worried for her safety because she considers herself the dangerous one. Debut novelist Vera Kurian joins the podcast to talk about “Never Saw Me Coming,” and why readers find her protagonist irresistible, in spite of her homicidal plotting and lack of empathy. Kurian discusses what it was like to achieve the dream of publishing a novel during a global pandem...2021-11-0939 minOlivia's Book ClubEmily Itami, "Fault Lines"Emily Itami is a debut novelist who uses her expertise as a travel writer to transport her readers to Tokyo in “Fault Lines.” The book focuses on Mizuki, a wealthy and beautiful Tokyo wife and mother, who is profoundly bored. Her witty internal dialogue reveals there are cracks beneath the shiny surface which, like the fault lines running through the city, threaten to damage or destroy. Emily joined the podcast from London to reflect on her experience living in Tokyo, the expectations women face, and how motherhood changes everything. Margaret discusses a recent novel she enjoyed, “Heard It In a...2021-11-0237 minOlivia's Book ClubRiley Sager, “Survive The Night"Fans of Riley Sager’s work know that he is a master at delivering twist after twist in suspenseful thrillers like “Home Before Dark,” “Lock Every Door,” and his latest, “Survive The Night.” Sager joins the podcast to talk to Olivia about the novel, its protagonist Charlie, and why the film student fears she may be the Campus Killer’s next victim. He set the book in 1991, the same time that Sager was a college student, allowing him to reference his own favorite music and movies to bring the story and tension to life. Sager talks about how post-pandemi...2021-10-2641 minOlivia's Book ClubLisa Jewell, “The Night She Disappeared”Halloween is creeping up and it is time for some suspenseful reads, and no one does it better than Lisa Jewell. This time, Jewell takes us to a posh boarding school in the English countryside where many secrets lurk in the beauty, in her latest thriller, The Night She Disappeared. The author joins the podcast to talk about the book and tells Olivia the surprising way she approached the novel: beginning with the setting and a “Dig Here” sign, rather than a crime or even a character! She talks with Olivia about recent travels to Spain, getting her daughters to rea...2021-10-1942 minOlivia's Book ClubPaula McLain, "When The Stars Go Dark"Bestselling author of The Paris Wife, Paula McLain, tackles a new genre in her powerful, emotionally charged thriller, When The Stars Go Dark. Following a personal tragedy, Detective Anna Hart launches herself into a missing persons investigation that takes her down a path right into her own painful past, wrestling with what it means to be a woman, a mother, a victim, survivor, and savior. McLain joins the podcast to talk about crafting the layered mystery, and her painful personal history that shapes this work of fiction, a book she feels she was destined to write. She shares how a...2021-10-1239 minOlivia's Book ClubJenn McKinlay, "Wait For It"Jenn McKinlay is a prolific writer who is best known for the Library Lover’s and Cupcake Bakery Mysteries. McKinlay is quickly building a loyal following for her women’s fiction and romantic comedies, and her latest is “Wait for It.” When the protagonist, Annabelle, moves from Boston to Phoenix, McKinlay brings readers a slice of life in the desert, a setting the author calls home. She talks about writing, the ways the pandemic cramped her style, baking, travel, and who is the boss of her house (hint: not a human.) Her next Library Lover’s book, “Killer Resear...2021-10-0537 minOlivia's Book ClubLaura Lippman, "Dream Girl""Dream Girl" is NYT bestselling author Laura Lippman's latest suspenseful novel. Lippman calls it "a book lover's book." Told from the perspective of an acclaimed novelist, Gerry Anderson, whose literary relevance was cemented with publication of a book called "Dream Girl." The story finds Gerry bed-ridden and isolated, recovering from physical injury and the passing of his mother, when he starts receiving mysterious phone calls from his book's fictional character. Is he losing his mind? Or is someone out to get Gerry, and if so, why? A fresh look at life post #MeToo from the perspective of a...2021-09-2841 minOlivia's Book ClubAllison Larkin, "The People We Keep"Allison Larkin’s novel The People We Keep takes readers back to the early 1990s, with teenage April lives mostly alone in a motorhome in a rundown town in rural New York. The People We Keep is the coming-of-age story of a talented young woman who seems to always go without- without a mom, often without a dad, without opportunity, without understanding, without stability, without much of a safety net. Larkin joined the podcast to talk about about writing the story of a traveling musician who spends life on the road, a character that first came to mind fifteen ye...2021-09-2145 minOlivia's Book ClubChandler Baker, “The Husbands”In “The Husbands,” Chandler Baker takes readers to a suburban, Stepford-inspired, impossibly idyllic Texas community of Dynasty Ranch, which seems to offer Nora Spangler everything she needs. The New York Times bestselling author of “The Whisper Network” joins the podcast to talk about her new novel, her career as an attorney that inspired the character, the sexism women face in the corporate world, and how she feels about her legal colleagues reading her work. Margaret and Olivia talk about other novels that revolve around planned communities or notable neighbors, including “The Therapist” by BA Paris and Megan Miranda’s “S...2021-09-1445 minOlivia's Book ClubKristin Harmel, “The Forest of Vanishing Stars”As a former journalist, novelist Kristin Harmel fully embraces the research required to craft accurate and immersive historical fiction. Harmel became more deeply immersed in World War II Poland and the Jews who her protagonist, Yona, helps to hide and keep alive in the forest against the odds. Along the way, Harmel discovered that she is directly descended from the Polish Jews. Sharing personal and historical revelations, along with telling Olivia about founding Friends and Fiction, and how she started a professional career as a journalist as a teenager, her passion for writing is contagious. In a M...2021-09-0748 minOlivia's Book ClubZakiya Dalila Harris, “The Other Black Girl”One of the most talked about books of 2021, Zakiya Dalila Harris’ debut novel is a genre-bending, searing look at race, office politics, and the micro-aggressions that people of color endure when working in a predominantly white industry. Harris’ “The Other Black Girl” is the story of Nella, a publishing assistant who is used to being the only black voice in the room. When Hazel arrives, dynamics change dramatically, but not at all in ways Nella would expect or desire. A thriller that is full of surprises, “The Other Black Girl” gives a dramatic look at how easily a young profe...2021-08-3136 minOlivia's Book ClubLisa Taddeo, “Animal”Witnessing a suicide of a married lover, while at dinner with another married lover, is the moment that sends Lisa Taddeo’s “Animal” narrator, Joan, out of New York and headed to California. A dive into grief, rage, and sexual power, the novel is powerfully written and in moments deeply moving and even disturbing. Taddeo reveals she’s far from the darkly intense author many expect is behind her work, shares how she juggled the novel while parenting her six-year-old, and how the pandemic didn’t change her. Listen for the hilarious comment her daughter had for her at a b...2021-08-2443 minOlivia's Book ClubJennifer Deibel, “A Dance in Donegal”Jennifer Deibel spent nearly a decade living in Ireland and Austria, building a family and a deep love for all things Irish. That passion for the Emerald Isle and the Gaelic tongue is still with the Arizona schoolteacher, and fueled her passion for writing her debut novel, “A Dance in Donegal” from Revell Books. Jennifer talks to Olivia about making a “perfect cuppa”, life in the desert as compared to a land of green, and how she identifies with her protagonist, Moira. “A Dance in Donegal” follows Moira from Boston to Ireland in 1920, following through on her mothe...2021-08-1741 min
Empty Seats, Full HeartsArizona Superintendent of Public Instruction Kathy HoffmanState superintendent Kathy Hoffman reflects on the Delta variant and how politics is putting a damper on back to school. She shares her best advice for parents to get to the bottom of COVID and curriculum questions in our schools.2021-08-1033 minOlivia's Book ClubSophia Benoit: “Well, This is Exhausting: Essays”Be honest, it IS all exhausting! Over the years, Sophia Benoit has sharpened her fierce wit as a means for survival: dealing in with life as a woman in a sexist world, finding love in the age of apps, accepting yourself even when society considers you fat, the push and pull of life as a child of divorce… Benoit, a relationship and sex columnist discusses her collection of essays with Olivia, reflecting on the value of telling her unfiltered truth, and her hope that after readers laugh out loud (and maybe shed a tear or two) at Benoit’s expe...2021-08-1046 minOlivia's Book ClubChristina Baker Kline, "The Exiles"Christina Baker Kline talks about the research and writing of her powerful work of historical fiction, THE EXILES. The novel tells the story of Evangeline, Hazel, and Matthina, three women who must tap into incredible resilience in the face of oppression and injustice. The setting is “the land beyond the seas,” Van Diemen’s Island, a penal colony established by the British, where 25,000 British women were exiled, by way of a former slave ship, The Medea. The ORPHAN TRAIN author shares with Olivia the parallels with modern day, and her interest in telling stories that focus on the power of fem...2021-08-0343 minOlivia's Book ClubLauren Layne, “To Sir, With Love"Can you fall in love with a stranger? Is anything a mystery anymore? “To Sir, With Love” is a romantic comedy written by Lauren Layne who serves up a satisfying look at modern love in Manhattan. Part “Love Is Blind” meets “You’ve Got Mail,” the novel’s protagonist Gracie Cooper is holding down the fort of her champagne shop/ family business, while falling for anonymous stranger on a dating app she only knows as “sir.” Lauren talks to Olivia about delivering a feel-good story when readers need it the most, and why her own life in Manhattan is so important to her...2021-07-2740 minOlivia's Book ClubCameron Hamilton & Lauren Speed, “Leap of Faith”Falling in love and getting engaged without ever looking at each other? That’s the premise of the Netflix hit reality show, Love Is Blind. The unique dating show was a huge hit and launched not only a marriage but new careers for Lauren and Cameron. Fans follow their video content and now they can read about their relationship. Olivia talked with the duo about their book, “Leap of Faith” which is part memoir, but also a useful guide for couples navigating new dynamics, who will take inspiration from the familiar pair as role models in how to def...2021-07-2736 minOlivia's Book ClubAshley Audrain, "The Push"Even the casual reader who glanced at the lists of the Best Books of 2021, or Most Anticipated Fiction of ’21 knew of THE PUSH. Ashley Audrain’s debut novel explores a women’s greatest fears about motherhood through the suspenseful, gripping story of Blythe and her daughter, Violet. She talks with Olivia about how her professional experience as a literary publicist both shaped and shook her as a writer, and the moments when she deleted nearly ¾ of her manuscript. She also previews her second novel, THE WHISPERS. Margaret and Olivia discuss other highly hyped debuts and their f...2021-07-2051 minOlivia's Book ClubSteven Rowley, “The Guncle”If you didn’t already know what a guncle is, the character of Patrick in Steven Rowley’s “The Guncle” is here to help. As the Palm Springs dwelling, mimosa loving, sitcom celebrity gay uncle to Maisie and Grant, Patrick opens his heart and his home to the kids in a time of crisis. Olivia talks with the author of “Lily and the Octopus” and “The Editor” about this heartfelt and humorous novel of grief, growth, and finding the people you need right at the right time. Margaret shares some favorite novels that uniquely touch on grief: “Sing, Unburied, Sin...2021-07-1341 minOlivia's Book ClubBookseller turned Best Seller T.J. NewmanT.J. Newman’s life changes dramatically this summer. The author is a former indie bookstore bookseller, turned flight attendant, turned novelist. “Falling” is already a bestseller in the UK and is poised for a huge release at home July 7th. Overcoming dozens of rejections from literary agents to get here, Newman’s suspenseful tale of a kidnapping plot targeting the family of an airline pilot ultimately landed her seven-figure deals for the book, and the movie rights. She talks to Olivia about the failures that paved the way, and why her mother has earned the right to say “I told you...2021-07-0641 minOlivia's Book ClubDr. Amy Shah, "I'm So Effing Tired"In “I’m So Effing Tired” wellness expert Dr. Amy Shah tackles what we’re doing that’s making us feel fatigued, outlining a plan for readers to implement changes that will create an energy surge. From what you eat, to when you eat, to managing stress, Dr. Shah talks to Olivia about the energy trifecta, and the personal moment that led her to make a change. From surviving shift work to evaluating what, and sometimes who, to let go of, this is an eye-opening chat that will make listeners want to dig deeper into her book. Margaret r...2021-06-2934 minEmpty Seats, Full HeartsHow vaccines are going to get kids back to normal, with Dr. Joanna AndujarDr. Joanna Andujar discusses what you need to know about the Covid-19 vaccine in children and tips for addressing their physical, mental, and emotional needs moving forward.2021-06-2812 minOlivia's Book ClubJoJo Moyes, "The Giver of Stars"For so many fiction readers, JoJo Moyes is a household name. The British novelist and screenwriter talked to Olivia and Margaret about the research that went into her latest novel, “The Giver of Stars.” The book is now in paperback, and to write it, the British novelist made numerous trips to America’s heartland for research. She shares why it was important to ride horses in rural Kentucky (combining two of her passions), and some of the wild news headlines that helped her craft Alice, Marjery and the other Packhorse Librarians. Moyes previews her next book that’s headed to the sc...2021-06-2250 minEmpty Seats, Full HeartsServing the underserved – Discussion with Pediatrician Dr. Joanna AndujarHear how one doctor’s upbringing helped mold her mission to serve and earn trust in the community during the coronavirus pandemic.2021-06-2114 minOlivia's Book ClubDr. Kevin Leman, "8 Secrets to Raising Successful Kids"Best-selling author (more times than even he can count with certainty,) Dr. Kevin Leman likely wrote a book on any issue in your family you’d like to address and improve. From parenting, to romantic intimacy, to his theories on birth order that still have people talking decades later, Dr. Leman is a deep well of common sense who delivers hilarious truth bombs in a way only he can. Leman talks to Olivia about his recent book, “8 Secrets to Raising Successful Kids,” why mom is the most influential figure in her son’s life, and why putting away the...2021-06-1543 minEmpty Seats, Full HeartsPost-pandemic mental health needs in education – Rosa Linda DuronServing students and providing the social emotional supports needed is priority number one for assistant principal Rosa Linda Duron helping to address the trauma, depression and anxiety so many suffered during the 2020-21 school year.2021-06-1425 minOlivia's Book ClubKatherine Center: Things You Save in a FireKatherine Center is all about the joy, writing characters and stories that pull at your heart. The author of “What You Wish For”, she talks to Olivia about “Things You Save in a Fire,” now in paperback. The effervescent artist shares where she goes to meet writing deadlines, the fun she has with her newsletter, how she researched life as a firefighter, and Olivia discovers she and Katherine have Duran Duran and Frances Hodgson Burnett in common! Visit www.katherinecenter.com to shop her books and swag In A Moment With Margaret, Olivia and Margaret discuss three other bo...2021-06-0842 minEmpty Seats, Full HeartsLessons learned from 2020-21 and where we go from here – Janet Hecht, Part TwoHere's how the 2020-21 school year reshaped school enrollment, teaching, and learning in the second part of our conversation with Principal Janet Hecht Watch Empty Seats, Full Hearts: A New World in Education now on emptyseatsfullhearts.com2021-06-0119 minEmpty Seats, Full HeartsHow to lead a school in a virtual world – Janet Hecht, Part OneLeading an elementary school through online learning, a pandemic, education inequities, and food scarcity, Principal Janet Hecht shares how relationships are key to community building and success. Watch Empty Seats, Full Hearts: A New World in Education now on emptyseatsfullhearts.com2021-05-2416 minEmpty Seats, Full HeartsNever underestimate a first-year teacher: Kelsey MoralesA first-year teacher, teaching first grade online during the pandemic, reflects on the historic 2020-21 school year, what she’s learned, her advice for other future teachers...and if she’s coming back. Watch Empty Seats, Full Hearts: A New World in Education at emptyseatsfullhearts.com.2021-05-2224 minEmpty Seats, Full HeartsHow Empty Seats, Full Hearts came to beHear a comprehensive Q&A with the crew that gained unprecedented access to follow an elementary school, its teachers, students, and families through the 2020-21 school year as they navigated the pandemic, education inequities, food scarcity, isolation, illness, death, and grief. Watch Empty Seats, Full Hearts: A New World in Education at emptyseatsfullhearts.com.2021-05-2242 minEmpty Seats, Full HeartsIntroducing Empty Seats, Full Hearts: The PodcastEmpty Seats, Full Hearts: A New World in Education is a story of true grit. A documentary on how one school perseveres through the pandemic. This companion podcast will reflect on the film and explore the aftermath of virtual learning. We will visit with guests & newsmakers about the effects of COVID-19 on children and the education system, and where we go from here. The documentary premieres May 21.2021-05-1301 min