Shows
Pouring Over BooksBest Thing I've Read This Year: Mid Year Reading Check In and ReviewSend us a textIn this episode of the Pouring Over Books podcast, LaShawn discusses her reading experiences, including the joys of rereading favorite books, the complexities of book ratings, and her mid-year reading review. She shares her biggest surprises and disappointments in reading, highlights upcoming releases she's excited about, and provides insights into her current reads and recommendations.Books Mentioned in this episodeThe StorygraphThrone of Glass SeriesA Court of Thorns and Roses Crescent CityKing Of Ashes by SA C...2025-07-2226 minPouring Over BooksAll the Backlist: 10 Backlist RecommendationsSend us a textIn this episode of Pouring Over Books, host LaShawn explores 10 backlist books. She shares her top recommendations, including classics and contemporary works.Books discussed in this episode :Song of Solomon By Toni MorrisonLinden Hills By Gloria NaylorA Discovery of Witches by Deborah HarknessReckless by Elsie SilverMemoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden Eat the Frog by Brian TraceyThe Mercy Thompson Series by Patricia BriggsThe Perfect Find by Tia Williams2025-07-1528 minPouring Over BooksWhy You Should Read a Nora Roberts Book Today:8 RecommendationsSend us a textIn this episode of the Pouring Over podcast, LaShawn does a deep dive into one of her favorite romance authors: Nora Roberts. She shares her thoughts on the influence of Roberts on the romance genre, and provides recommendations from her extensive backlist. Then we get into what she is currently reading, which leads to the question what exactly is Dramione Fan Fiction?Nora Roberts is happily defying genres, 250 books in Follow LaShawn on IG @lashawnwiltz and Threads @lashawnwiltzSubstack: Letters From LaShawnFollow T...2025-07-0827 minPouring Over BooksJune Reads and Books on My Radar for JulySend us a textIn this episode, LaShawn shares her delightful reading experiences from June, discussing her strategies for reading, including her new DNF policy for books that don't hold her interest. She reviews several books, including Summer in the City, Broken Country, 'King of Ashes' and 'Harlem Rhapsody.' LaShawn also dives into the dark fantasy genre with the 'Plated Prisoner' series and shares her excitement for upcoming releases in July. Books Mentioned in this EpisodeSummer in the City By Alex AsterBroken Co...2025-07-0231 minPouring Over BooksBest Queer Books For Pride Month and BeyondSend us a textHappy Pride! On this week's episode, LaShawn is sharing 6 books that she thinks everyone should add to their TBR for Pride month and beyond, including a few of her favorites. She also discusses what she read on vacation and her current readSummer Reading GuideGiovanni’s Room By James BaldwinBuy on |Barnes and Noble | Bookshop.org |Amazon.com ( it is currently 1.99 on Kindle) Rainbow Boys by Alex Sanchez Buy on |Barnes and Noble | Bookshop.org |Amaz...2025-06-2421 minPouring Over BooksVacation Reads and A Problematic Book CommunitySend us a textIn this episode of Pouring Over Books, LaShawn is back from vacation, talking about reading adventures on board, the book 'Problematic Summer Romance' by Ali Hazelwood, and also addresses a troubling incident in the book community where Ali Hazelwood faced bullying over her opinions on fictional characters.Books talked about in this episode One Golden Summer by Carly FortuneBuy on |Barnes and Noble | Bookshop.org |Amazon.comSummer in t...2025-06-1720 minPouring Over BooksMay Reads and Books on My Radar for JuneSend us a textIn this episode of Pouring Over Books, LaShawn Wiltz reflects on her reading journey halfway through the year, sharing insights on her recent reads, , and highlighting her anticipated reads for June, emphasizing the excitement of new releases and her current reading plans.2025 Summer Reading GuideMay BooksThe Knight and the Moth By Rachel GillingShield of Sparrows by Devny PerryRewind it Back Liz ThomfordeSilver Elite Dani Francis2025-06-0325 minPouring Over Books2025 Summer Reading Guide SpecialSend us a textIn this episode of the Pouring Over Books podcast, LaShawn welcomes listeners to the unofficial start of summer and shares her highly anticipated summer reading guide. LaShawn discusses her top picks from each category.This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission at no additional cost to you. The Official 2025 Summer Reading GuideBooks Mentioned in this episode:Atmosphere By Taylor Jenkins Reid Barnes and Noble | Bookshop.org |Am...2025-05-2722 minPouring Over Books5 Tips to Read More This SummerSend us a textIn this episode of Pouring Over Books, LaShawn discusses the excitement of summer reading, sharing her tips for how to read more this summer. She emphasizes the importance of reading for pleasure, the value of DNFing books that don't capture your interest, and practical strategies to incorporate more reading into daily life. LaShawn also shares her current reads and upcoming books she's excited about, and plugs her Summer Reading Guide that releases next week on her Substack. Throne of Glass Series by Sarah J Maas Julie Chan...2025-05-2019 minPouring Over BooksAAPI Heritage Month Recs, Booktok Tea & What I'm Reading NowSend us a textIn this episode of Pouring Over Books, LaShawn discusses the significance of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month by recommending books from Asian authors. The episode also features a segment on current reads and future TBRs, along with a discussion on the recent book 'Silver Elite' and the reactions it has garnered within the book community.Books Mentioned in this EpisodeCan't Get Enough By Kennedy Ryan Panchinko By Min Jin LeeC...2025-05-1330 minPouring Over BooksApril Reads and Books on My Radar for MaySend us a textIn this episode of Pouring Over Books, LaShawn discusses the books she's read so far this year, including her top picks and some disappointments. She reviews several titles she read in April and shares her thoughts on upcoming releases for May. Books Mentioned in this EpisodeThe House of My Mother By Sheri FrankieFirebird By Juliette CrossSay You'll Remember Me By Abby JimenezNappily Ever After by Trisha R ThomasKing of Envy By Ana HuangO...2025-05-0629 minPouring Over BooksAlternatives to Amazon for Books, Audiobooks and eBooks for Independent Bookstore DaySend us a textIn this episode of Pouring Over Books, host LaShawn shares her birthday celebrations and dives into Emily Henry's latest book. In celebration of independent bookstores, She discusses the importance of supporting independent bookstores and provides alternatives to Amazon for purchasing books, audiobooks, and eBooks. LaShawn also shares her current read, and what she's currently obsessed with .Books and Links Mentioned in this EpisodeThis Great Big Beautiful Life By Emily HenryThe Seven Husbands of Evenlyn Hugo By Taylor Jenkins ReidIndependent Bookstore Day...2025-04-2221 minPouring Over BooksRERUN: How I read Multiple Books at OnceSend us a textone of The questions most frequently asked of Lashawn ( as recently as last week) is how does she read multiple books at once?So in this episode re-run LaShawn shares her reading system, which allows her to read multiple titles simultaneously. The conversation also touches on the recent controversy surrounding digital ownership of Kindle books and Amazon's policies. LaShawn invites listeners to join the Pouring Over Books Club for a community reading experience.Links for this episodeColorsoft kindleThe apple ipad mini...2025-04-1519 minPouring Over BooksCelebrating National Library Week and My Library Book Haul for AprilSend us a textIn this episode, LaShawn finally gets to review the book 'Oathbound', discussing its unexpected twists and the emotional impact it had on her. She also celebrates National Library Week, highlighting the vital role libraries play in communities and what you can do to keep Libraries open. LaShawn shares her recent library haul, sharing a wide of new reads that all came available at the same time. 00:00 Oathbound Review03:56 Celebrating National Library Week09:18 Library Haul: New Reads and Recommendations18:19 Current Reads and Future Plans...2025-04-0820 minPouring Over BooksMarch Reads and Books on My Radar in AprilSend us a textIn this episode, LaShawn celebrates her birthday month while discussing what she read in March what books are on her radar for April, and what she is currently reading now. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates01:35 Book Reviews: March Reads09:58 Upcoming Releases: April Anticipations21:31 Current Reads and Future PlansBooks Talked about in this Episode:Wild Side By Elsie Silver Amazon | Bookshop.orgConfessions of a Video Vixen By Karinne St...2025-04-0124 minPouring Over BooksBook Recommendations from My Favorite Book GenresSend us a textIn this episode of Pouring Over Books, LaShawn explores various literary genres, providing insights and recommendations for each. She discusses the characteristics of women's fiction, romance, thrillers, fantasy, and dystopian novels, highlighting key themes and notable books within each genre. Books talked about in this episodeHello Beautiful" by Ann Napolitano Buy on Amazon | Buy on Bookshop.org Vision in White By Nora Roberts Buy on Amazon | Buy on Bookshop.orgThe First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston Buy on...2025-03-2520 minPouring Over BooksMy Most Anticipated New Books to Read This SpringSend us a textIn this episode, LaShawn dives into her most anticipated book releases for the spring, discussing a variety of genres and themes, including historical fiction, thrillers, and contemporary romance. LaShawn also reflects on her current read and her plans for creating a personal library at home.Books mentioned this Episode:The Dream Hotel by Laila Lalami Amazon| Bookshop.orgThe Buffalo Hunter Hunter By Stephen Graham Jones Amazon| Bookshop.orgThe Filling Station Amazon| Bookshop.orgThe Antidote Karen Russell Amazon| B...2025-03-1822 minPouring Over BooksListener Request: Why I switched to The StoryGraphSend us a textIn this episode of Pouring Over Books, LaShawn discusses her experiences with book tracking platforms, particularly comparing Goodreads and StoryGraph. She shares her journey of transitioning to StoryGraph, highlighting its features and benefits, especially for readers who enjoy tracking their reading habits. LaShawn also reflects on her current reads, bookstore experiences, and the importance of supporting diverse authors.Chapters02:03Goodreads vs. StoryGraph: A Book Tracking Debate05:35Why I Switched to StoryGraph: 10 Compelling Reasons13:49Current Reads and Recommendations24:40Bookstore...2025-03-1125 minPouring Over BooksFebruary Reads and March Releases on my RadarSend us a textIn this episode of Pouring Over Books, LaShawn shares her current reads, a few of her favorites from February and New Releases from March on her radar. Books Talked About in this EpisodeOnly for the Week by Natasha Bishop Amazon | Bookshop.orgDeep End By Ali Hazlewood Amazon | Bookshop.orgOnyx Storm By Rebecca Yarros Amazon |Booshop.orgSister Sister By Eric Jerome Dickey Amazon | Bookshop.org Can’t Get Enough By Kennedy Ryan Amazon | Bookshop.org2025-03-0422 minPouring Over BooksHow I Read Multiple Books at OnceSend us a textIn this episode of Pouring Over Books LaShawn shares her reading system, which allows her to read multiple titles simultaneously. The conversation also touches on the recent controversy surrounding digital ownership of Kindle books and Amazon's policies. LaShawn invites listeners to join the Pouring Over Books Club for a community reading experience.Links for this episodeColorsoft kindleThe apple ipad miniThe Way of Kings Brandon SandersonCher’s Memoir Discovery of Witches By Debor...2025-02-2519 minPouring Over BooksBlack Romance Novels That I Love and RecommendSend us a textIn this episode of Pouring Over Books, LaShawn discusses a few of her favorite Black Romance Novels and why you should read them all. 00:00Valentine's Day Reflections and Exciting News01:21Celebrating Black Love Stories02:14Book Recommendations: A Duke by Default04:19Book Recommendations: You Made a Fool Out of Death05:41Book Recommendations: The Art of the Scandal07:16Book Recommendations: The Perfect Fine09:28Book Recommendations: Take a Hint, Dani Brown...2025-02-1818 minPouring Over BooksFor Smut's SakeSend us a textIn this episode, LaShawn and Emily delve into the world of romance novels, focusing on the increasingly popular genre of 'smut.' They discuss the definitions and distinctions between smut and traditional romance, explore various sub-genres including closed door romance and hardcore smut, and share their personal recommendations. The conversation highlights the emotional and intimate aspects of romance literature, while also addressing the stigma surrounding it. Article that lead to this discussion: In The Midst Of A Sex Recession, Is It Any Wonder We're Obsessed With SmutBooks M...2025-02-1140 minPouring Over Books5 Book Suggestions for Black History MonthSend us a textIn this episode of the Pouring Over Books podcast, LaShawn celebrates Black History Month by sharing a curated list of book recommendations by Black authors. She discusses the importance of recognizing Black history as an integral part of American history and highlights various genres, including biography, romance, fantasy, and classic literature. The Fifth Season By N.K. JemisinDisappearing Acts By Terry McMillan Legendborn By Tracey DeonnThe Color Purple By Alice WalkerThe 272 By Rachel SwarnsParable of the Sower By...2025-02-0418 minPouring Over BooksJanuary Reads and Upcoming Romance Releases for 2025Send us a textIn this episode of Pouring Over Books, LaShawn discusses books she read in January and introduces romance contributor a Emily Ener to discuss the upcoming romance titles they are looking forward to the most. Find Emily on IG @withabookandtea00:00 Monthly Reading Overview05:01 Reviews of the best Books I read in January.10:25 Reading Goals and Future Plans16:18 Introduction of Emily19:00 Anticipated Romance Releases for 2025 Books Mentioned in this EpisodeQuicksilver by Callie HartA Sea of U...2025-01-2840 minPouring Over BooksRomantasy 101: Recommendations for NewbiesSend us a text In today's episode ,LaShawn dives headfirst into the world of Romantasy – you know, that magical blend of romance and fantasy. We'll chat about how this genre evolved, what makes it so special, and how romance and fantasy come together to create something truly unique. LaShawn also shares some of her absolute favorite reads for newbies, including popular series and what makes them so special. 00:00 Introduction to Romantasy02:32 Defining Romantasy and Its Evolution03:55 Sub-genres and Trends in Romantasy04:48 Recommended Romantasy Reads: Throne of Glass08:31 Recommended Romantasy Reads...2025-01-2118 minPouring Over BooksAll Things Kindle UnlimitedSend us a text In this episode, LaShawn dives into the world of Kindle Unlimited, discussing its features, benefits, and a variety of book recommendations across different genres that are currently available with a Kindle Unlimited description00:00 Introduction to Kindle Unlimited and Personal Reflections06:30 Exploring Kindle Unlimited: Features and Benefits10:19 Top Book Recommendations on Kindle Unlimited15:07 Community Engagement and Personal UpdatesBooks Talked about in this episode Fourth WingIron FlameThe Boyfriend By Frieda McFaddenThe WIndy City Se...2025-01-1422 minPouring Over BooksBookish Goals and Most Anticipated Books of 2025Send us a textIn this episode of Pouring Over Books, LaShawn reflects on her holiday break, discusses her reading goals for 2025, and shares her most anticipated book releases for the year. Audiobooks or Reading? To Our Brains, It Doesn’t Matter04:27: Flyy Girl By Omar Tyree4:45: Most Anticipated Books of 20255:25: Death of the Author By Nnedi Okorafor07:28: Can't Get Enough By Kennedy Ryan08:54: Say You'll Remember Me By Abby Jimenez 11:00: Matriarch Tina Knowles 12:30: Onyx Storm by Rebecca YarrosEmily...2025-01-0723 minPouring Over BooksMy Favorite Books of 2024Send us a textLaShawn reflects on and shares her favorite books from 2024. We also get into the her thoughts on the new Kindle Colorsoft, something she is currently side eyeing, and plans for the podcast next year including the Book Club. Books and Links Mentioned in this episode: The Blackbird Oracle By Deborah HarknessIf it Makes You Happy Julie Olivia The Wedding People Allison Espach This Could Be Us By Kennedy RyanJames By Percival Everett Just for the Summer by Abby JimenezThe...2024-12-1636 minPouring Over BooksIn Defense of AudiobooksSend us a textGuess what? Audiobooks can be just as good as reading a regular book! In this episode, I'm sharing all you need to know about Audiobooks. From why you should start listening to audio books, where to find them and a few of my favorites to get you started. Books and Links from the EpisodeGet an Audible MembershipJoin Libro FM with code SWITCH for 2 free audio bookshttps://www.discovermagazine.com/mind/audiobooks-or-reading-to-our-brains-it-doesnt-matterBooks Mentioned in this episode...2024-12-0920 minPouring Over BooksChristmas Romance Recs and a Bookclub AnnouncementSend us a textHey bookworms! In this episode of Pouring Over Books, LaShawn spills the tea on her latest adventures t including her first and last marathon. She dives into her favorite books read last month and what she is currently reading. Today's theme is Christmas Romance novels with LaShawn highlighting her top Christmas romance picks. Plus, she's super excited to announce a new book club focusing on Black Girl Chick Lit – you should totally join!00:00Marathon Reflections and Reading Adventures04:21Exploring New Romance Reads09:01Christmas Roma...2024-12-0221 minPouring Over BooksLet's Talk About Banned BooksSend us a textIn this episode of Pouring Over Books, LaShawn talks about the scary trend of book banning in American schools. She discussed how this affects students and points out the importance of seeing yourself in books. LaShawn dives deep into books by Black women that have been banned, like Toni Morrison's The Bluest Eye and Maya Angelou's I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings and more. She stresses how important it is for communities to fight against censorship and support the right to read diverse stories.Chapters00:00 Introduction t...2024-11-1126 minPouring Over BooksLet Me Distract You: 6 Books and a RantSend us a textIn this episode of Pouring Over Books, LaShawn is sharing six books to distract you from the real world this week and a rant at the water cooler. The conversation touches on the debate surrounding warning labels on romance novels and the societal perceptions of the genre. LaShawn encourages listeners to embrace their reading choices and highlights the significance of civic engagement, particularly in the context of voting.00:00Welcome and Introduction to the PodcastFollow LaShawn on Threads 02:036 Book Recommendations for Escaping RealityTh...2024-11-0425 minPouring Over BooksEveryone is a ReaderSend us a textOn this Episode of Pouring Over Books, LaShawn is discussing: what it means to be a reader in today's online world, my unconventional book rating system, emphasizing that a book's worth isn't solely measured by a five-star ratingliterary snobbery and ratings and reviews of recent reads.Show notes are time stamped below for your convenience. Read a full transcript of the show here. 00:00 Introduction to Pouring Over Books Podcast02:58 Book Rating System Explained07:14 Book Reviews: Ministry of Time10:13 Book Reviews: God of Fury14:59 Book...2024-10-2936 minPouring Over BooksTrailer: Welcome to Pouring Over BooksSend us a textWell, friends I'm starting a podcast to talk about my favorite thing: BOOKS. So tune in for weekly discussions where we dive into the books we love and even the ones we don't. Every week ( or so) we'll chat about my latest reads, share some recommendations, and even bring on a friend or two for a good old-fashioned book chat. So get comfy, grab a warm cup of something and let's chat! Follow LaShawn on IG @lashawnwiltz and Threads @lashawnwiltzSubstack: Let...2024-10-1700 min
Iced Coffee and Self Care ®Waking up early + Self Care with guest Lashawn WiltzAre you ready for more fun and honest girl talk? Then listening to this episode is a must do to get your day going. In this encore episode host Latorsha, brings back guest LaShawn Wiltz, visual story teller and creator of everydayeyecandy.com. Take note as you hear how this busy mom, wife, and full time blogger (plus more) makes self care a daily priority. Also, get some bonus tips that will change how you think when scheduling your own self care. Connect with Lashawn on IG @lashawnwiltz Please join the conversation by l...2023-06-0628 minIced Coffee and Self Care ®Going to Play and Chase JoyThis episode is my love letter that it’s okay to take a break, go play, and chase joy. Sometimes we spend so much time working with our head down that we forget there is so much new fulfilling life happening all around us. Today, I share with you how I found permission to step back from the established routines and go find what works for the version of who I am today. Article mentioned that helped inspire this episode Who am I without my routines? by Lashawn Wiltz who is the curator of Pouring Over Books Box ...2023-04-2513 min
Edit Your Life | Simplify + Declutter Your Home, Time, and Mental SpaceHow To Prioritize Romance & Connection (with Thien-Kim Lam)Prioritizing connection time is important all year round, but it can be a challenge amidst the busyness of everyday life. Christine chats with author and entrepreneur Thien-Kim Lam about simple ways to be intentional about relationships and find ways to show your partner you care without needing a ridiculous amount of money or time.LINKS + RELATED EPISODES:
Thien-Kim Lam: website + books Happy Endings, Full Exposure, subscription service Bawdy Bookworms
Simple Friendship Reboot Tactics
Tiny Moments of Self-Love
Embracing Everyday Moments (with LaShawn Wiltz)
Becoming More Present
Love Languages quiz
Thien-Kim’s book recommendations: Come As You Are...2023-02-0938 min
Manifest It, Sis! with Dani Faust#55: Practical Intentionality and Alignment without Hustle w/ LaShawn WiltzSend us a textIn this episode LaShawn Wiltz of the Banned Book Club and the Pouring Over Books Box shares her methodologies for operating as a high achiever, without the hustle. She's an entrepreneur and a mom, and she's intentional about how she lives her life. Her tips will certainly change your life if you let them. Enjoy!Instagram.com/lashawnwiltzEverydayEyecandy.comPouring Over Books BoxThe Banned Book Club-------------Dani Faust is a hypnotherapist and certified Life Coach, Intuitive Energy Healer and Spiritual Teacher currently...2023-01-3032 min
This Can't Be That HardEP 139: Best Of The Podcast In 2021, Part 1When I put podcast episodes together, my goal is always give you something valuable and actionable that you can use in your business. What I love about interview episodes is that new voices and perspectives bring valuable insights to ME as well! After 68 episodes in 2021, I figured we could all use a refresher - a best of the best, if you will - so I put together a quick tour of some of the highlights from my interviews in 2021. Whether you’re a brand new listener or have been around since the beginning, I think you’ll enjoy revisiting some...2021-12-2830 min
A Certain AgeOn Big Leaps. Making A Midlife Side Hustle Your Main Gig with LaShawn Wlitz of Everyday EyecandyStuck in rut? Afraid to leave a comfortable job? LaShawn Wiltz did a career 180, leaving a 15-year nursing career to launch not one, but two passion businesses, including the subscription box business Pouring Over Books – a monthly box of artisanal coffee and classic books. We cover the nuts and bolts of preparing for a pivot and how to get a business off the ground. Plus, why joy is on the other side of an uncomfortable leap.SHOW NOTES + TRANSCRIPT:acertainagepod.comFOLLOW A CERTAIN AGE:InstagramFacebookLinkedIn...2021-10-2537 min
Mediavine On AirMaking Photography A Priority with Jennifer Borget: Mediavine On Air Episode 27When you're a digital content creator, you're very much a one-man (or woman) band.From video to SEO and copywriting to social, there are so many 'crucial' skillsets you're expected to have that it can be next to impossible to decide where to focus your valuable (and limited) time.Well, we've got one word for you: PHOTOGRAPHY. This skill is relevant in almost every blogging niche and stepping up your photography game has benefits in so many other areas of your business. Plus, it's FUN!Jennifer Borget is a content creator and well-known photography expert. In fact, she teaches for...2021-10-0700 min