Best Indie bookstore owner Podcasts (2024)

1
How to Write Authentic Stories That Matter: Lessons from Julian Winters 50:39

4h ago50:39

50:39

In this episode of the Written In Melanin podcast, host C. M. Lockhart speaks with author Julian Winters about his journey as a Black and queer writer, the importance of authentic storytelling, transitioning from young adult to adult fiction, and the impact of representation in literature. 00:00 Welcome to the Written In Melanin Podcast 00:23 Intro…

1
88. Andrew O'Hagan, "Caledonian Road" 49:57

3d ago49:57

49:57

Arundhati Roy faces prison for a speech made fourteen years ago; summer reading plans; and, we talk to writer Andrew O'Hagan about his wonderfully capacious novel of contemporary London, Caledonian Road. Thank you for listening! If you like what you hear, give us a follow at: X: Across the Pond, Galley Beggar Press, Interabang Books, Lori Feathers,…

1
The Evolution of Book Publishing: A 44-Year Journey with Andy Hughes 59:11

4d ago59:11

59:11

What happens when a lifelong love of literature leads to a storied 44-year career in the publishing industry? Join me for an intimate conversation with Andy Hughes, the recently retired Senior VP and Director of Production and Design at Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group. From his earliest role at Cornell University Medical Library to responding to a…

1
Empowering Children with the Joy of Book Ownership: A Discussion with Kate Bowersox of Books in Homes USA 26:06

11d ago26:06

26:06

Discover the transformative power of book ownership with Kate Bowersox, the passionate Executive Director of Books in Homes USA. In this heartfelt episode, Kate opens up about her personal journey, academic achievements, and her mission to ignite a love for reading among children. She shares touching stories of raising her own kids to cherish books…

1
Creating Diverse Narratives in Film and Manga 49:24

16d ago49:24

49:24

In this episode of the Written In Melanin podcast, host C. M. Lockhart speaks with guest Robbie J. Atkinson, renowned for her avant garde storytelling, about her unique approach to crafting complex characters and plots in Manga and film, the journey of entrepreneurship, and the importance of creating diverse and thought-provoking narratives. 00:00 …

1
87. Clare Pollard, "The Modern Fairies" 54:07

18d ago54:07

54:07

Are debut novels failing to launch? And we talk to writer Clare Pollard about her latest novel, The Modern Fairies, on female literary salons during the reign of Louis XIV and how the retellings of old stories for the salons became some of our most enduring fairy tales. Thank you for listening! If you like what you hear, give us a follow at: X: Acr…

1
Blending Tradition with Technology: Chris Steib's Journey from Literature to Indie Bookshop in Tarrytown 42:10

18d ago42:10

42:10

In this episode, I chat with Chris Steib, owner of Transom Bookshop in Tarrytown, New York. Chris takes us on his career journey from a literature student to a high school English teacher, transitioning into the corporate world as a speechwriter and tech entrepreneur, and finally realizing his dream of opening an indie bookshop. Chris shares how he…

1
Aardvark Books and Cafe: From Wholesaler Dreams to a Literary Haven in Herefordshire 48:45

25d ago48:45

48:45

Have you ever wondered how a whimsical idea could transform into a vibrant literary hub? Join me as I chat with Sheridan Swinson, owner of Aardvark Books and Cafe in Herefordshire, UK. Sheridan takes us through his serendipitous journey from an initial plan of being a book wholesaler to becoming an adored independent bookshop, complete with a café …

1
86. Alex Pugsley, " The Education of Aubrey McKee" 55:18

1M ago55:18

55:18

Previous guests win big awards; the high production costs for small presses; and we talk to writer and filmmaker Alex Pugsley about his new novel, The Education of Aubrey McKee. Galley Beggar Press- What does a book cost? Thank you for listening! If you like what you hear, give us a follow at: X: Across the Pond, Galley Beggar Press, Interabang Boo…

1
The Art of Storytelling Across Platforms with Writer Jessie Rosen 28:21

1M ago28:21

28:21

Have you ever wondered how a blogger's musings can morph into the pages of a novel? Join us on The Bookshop Podcast as we sit down with Jessie Rosen, who's done just that. From the East Coast to Los Angeles, Jessie shares her journey through blogging, scriptwriting, and now, novel writing. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and t…

1
Brianna Peppins on Black representation and being a Black author in YA 43:48

1M ago43:48

43:48

In this episode of the Written In Melanin podcast, host C. M. Lockhart speaks with guest Brianna Peppins, author of young Adult Contemporary books, about her journey as a Black and Indie author, the influence of HBCUs on her writing, challenges in book marketing for Black authors, and advice for aspiring writers. 00:00 Welcome to the Written In Mel…

1
From Poetic Solace to Community Haven: Leena Batchelor's Journey of Creative Resilience and Expression 31:49

1M ago31:49

31:49

Discover the heart and soul of Script Haven Ltd. as the remarkable Leena Batchelor, former Worcestershire Poet Laureate, takes us on a journey through the evolution of her dream. From her early days seeking solace in poetry to nurturing a community bookshop that blooms as a sanctuary for self-published, indie authors, and main stream publishers, Le…

1
85. Ada Zhang, "The Sorrows of Others" 49:50

2M ago49:50

49:50

Commemorating Paul Auster; praising Miss MacIntosh, My Darling; and we talk to writer Ada Zhang on the one year anniversary of her debut story collection, The Sorrows of Others. Miss MacIntosh, My Darling Thank you for listening! If you like what you hear, give us a follow at: X: Across the Pond, Galley Beggar Press, Interabang Books, Lori Feathers…

1
Emiko Jean on Crafting Resilience and Suspense in The Return of Ellie Black 26:51

2M ago26:51

26:51

In this episode, I chat with Emiko Jean, the New York Times bestselling author whose journey from various professions to the realm of writing is nothing short of inspiring. Emiko sheds light on her latest page-turner, The Return of Ellie Black, and the meticulous care she gives to her Japanese American characters. The world of publishing is fraught…

1
How to get indie books in bookstores 16:57

2M ago16:57

16:57

This is part 2 of the interview with Demetrius Frazier the owner of Resist Booksellers. 00:00 Welcome to the Written In Melanin Podcast 00:20 Navigating the World of Indie Publishing 01:36 The Amazon Debate: Convenience vs. Supporting Indie Bookstores 04:15 How to Market Your Book to Bookstores and Readers 16:21 Final Thoughts and How to Support th…

1
Turning Pages and Building Community: Celebrating Sunshine Book Company's Story With Owner Beth Merrick 33:05

2M ago33:05

33:05

Nestled within the heart of Claremont's historic district, Sunshine Book Company gleams with the charm of its 1915 architecture—a setting almost as enchanting as the tales it houses. As the shop celebrates its third anniversary, I'm joined by the effervescent Beth, who shares the serendipitous journey that brought her from the world of Disney to th…

1
Why indie books aren't in indie bookstores interview with Demetrius Frazier of Resist Booksellers 55:48

2M ago55:48

55:48

This a part 1 of the interview with Demetrius Frazier the owner of Resist Booksellers 00:00 Welcome to the Written In Melanin Podcast 00:22 Spotlight on Demetrius Frazier: Literacy Advocate and Entrepreneur 03:05 The Mission and Impact of Resist Booksellers 11:24 Navigating the Book Industry as an Indie Author 31:30 The Power of Support: Valuing In…

1
84. Danielle Dutton, "Prairie, Dresses, Art, Other" 51:53

2M ago51:53

51:53

Sam is a Swiftie; Rushdie's new memoir Knife is amazing; and we talk to writer and publisher Danielle Dutton about strangeness, attention and form in her new book, Prairie, Dresses, Art, Other. Thank you for listening! If you like what you hear, give us a follow at: X: Across the Pond, Galley Beggar Press, Interabang Books, Lori Feathers, Sam Jordi…

1
The unsavory truth behind traditional publishing | Part 2 of the Bethany Baptiste Interview 47:26

2M ago47:26

47:26

This is part 2 of the interview with Bethany Baptiste the author of "The Poisons We Drink"00:00 Welcome to the Written In Melanin Podcast00:22 The Journey of 'The Poisons We Drink' with Bethany Baptiste00:33 Navigating the Challenges of Traditional Publishing02:16 Bethany's Publication Rollercoaster: Delays, Misprints, and Tours12:17 The Emotional …

1
Caroline Alexander, Skies of Thunder: The Deadly World War II Mission Over The Roof Of The World 1:02:31

2M ago1:02:31

1:02:31

Embark on a historical odyssey as Caroline Alexander, New York Times Bestselling Author and acclaimed contributor to The New Yorker and National Geographic, unveils the lesser-known sagas of World War II's China-Burma-India theatre in her new book, Skies of Thunder: The Deadly World War II Mission Over The Roof Of The World. With a background steep…

1
Navigating the Pages of Indie Bookstore Ownership with Shelf Life Books' Chris and Berkley McDaniel 30:39

2M ago30:39

30:39

In this episode, I chat with Shelf Life Books owners Chris and Berkley McDaniel about the switch from corporate life to purchasing an indie bookshop, things to do and see in Richmond, Virginia, cats, and books! Formerly known as Chop Suey Books, Shelf Life Books is the largest independent bookstore in Richmond, VA, and has served the Richmond commu…

1
From Fanfiction to Fantasy: Bethany Baptiste's Writer's Journey 45:02

2M ago45:02

45:02

This episode of the Written In Melanin podcast features host C. M. Lockhart in conversation with Bethany Baptiste, discussing her journey as a young adult sci-fi fantasy novelist. They dive into Baptiste's book 'The Poisons We Drink', exploring its unique blend of fantasy, politics, and the power of love potions. They discuss the inspiration behind…

1
83. Scarlett Thomas, "The Sleepwalkers" 51:23

2M ago51:23

51:23

Finding a way to print books while sacrificing fewer trees; questioning if there aren't just too many books being published these days? We chat with the talented and engaging Scarlett Thomas about her thrilling new novel, The Sleepwalkers. Thank you for listening! If you like what you hear, give us a follow at: X: Across the Pond, Galley Beggar Pre…

1
Author Edward Humes: Total Garbage, How We Can Fix Our Waste and Heal Our World 53:42

2M ago53:42

53:42

In this episode, I chat with Edward Humes about his latest book, Total Garbage: How We Can Fix Our Waste and Heal Our World. Humes reveals the surprising depths of waste permeation in everyday life and the power we hold to rectify these issues. By reimagining waste as an opportunity rather than an obstacle, Humes provides a blueprint for collective…

1
Feasting on Narrative: A Journey with Celia Sack Through the World of Culinary Literature 45:18

3M ago45:18

45:18

In this episode, I chat with Celia Sack, founder and owner of Omnivore Books about cookbooks, cooking disasters and achievements, her favorite cookbooks, and the growing geographical scope of cookbooks. Located in an old butcher shop in Noe Valley, Omnivore Books is a cherished epicurean hub blending a passion for food and the pleasures of reading.…

1
Black Indie Fantasy Writing with Tatiana Obey 57:31

3M ago57:31

57:31

This episode features a discussion with author Tatiana Obey, known for her action-packed, character-driven stories featuring diverse characters. In it, C. M. Lockhart and Tatiana discuss various themes relevant to Black and indie authors, such as the importance of visibility, the challenge of receiving and giving honest reviews, and the significanc…

1
82. Douglas Westerbeke, "A Short Walk Through a Wide World" 55:30

3M ago55:30

55:30

It's the 50th anniversary of Stephen King's novel, Carrie; bad news for the distribution of small press literature in the US; and we talk to debut author Douglas Westerbeke about his imaginative new novel, A Short Walk Through a Wide World. Thank you for listening! If you like what you hear, give us a follow at: X: Across the Pond, Galley Beggar Pr…

1
Danielle Trussoni: New York Times Bestselling Author 32:36

3M ago32:36

32:36

In this episode, I chat with Danielle Trussoni, about her new novel, The Puzzle Master. Danielle Trussoni is the New York Times bestselling author of the novels The Ancestor, Angelology, and Angelopolis, all New York Times Notable Books, and the memoirs The Fortress and Falling Through the Earth, named one of the ten best books of the year by The N…

1
Chrissy Ryan: Cultivating Reading and Community at BookBar 34:40

3M ago34:40

34:40

In this episode, I chat with Chrissy Ryan, the owner of BookBar, an independent bookshop, cafe and wine bar, events and social space centered around celebrating the social side of reading. Chrissy's tale is not just about the mingling of books and wine; it's a celebration of community, a confluence of conversation starters, and a testament to the c…

1
A Tale of Two Mediums | Brittney Morris on Video Games and Young Adult Fiction 39:57

3M ago39:57

39:57

In this episode of the Written In Melanin podcast, host C.M. Lockhart chats with Brittney Morris, author of 'SLAY' and video game writer. Morris shares her journey from being inspired by the Black Panther movie to becoming a bestselling author and transitioning into video game writing, with projects like Marvel's Spider-Man. She discusses the chall…

1
81. Aron Aji and Selin Gökçesu (translators), "Lojman" 1:08:47

3M ago1:08:47

1:08:47

Annoucements from our literary prizes; a new publishing model promises greater equity for authors; be a "reader-in-residence;" and we talk to Aron Aji and Selin Gökçesu,Turkish to English translators of the gripping novel of Eastern Anatolia, Lojman by Ebru Ojen, published by City Lights and a finalist for the 2023 Republic of Consciousness Prize, …

1
Ann Seaton: Co-Executive Director, California Independent Booksellers Alliance 22:30

3M ago22:30

22:30

In this episode, I chat with Ann Seaton, Co-Executive Director of the California Independent Booksellers Alliance. Anne brings the narrative of indie bookshops to life, highlighting how they serve as cultural hubs in their communities. Discover the steadfast mission of CALIBA to bolster the diverse fabric of independent bookstores, and learn why yo…

1
Swimming Beyond Borders: Lynne Cox on Open Water Triumphs and Fostering Global Harmony 39:30

4M ago39:30

39:30

From the rain-soaked dreams of a young girl in Manchester, New Hampshire, to swimming in some of the world's most formidable waters, open water swimmer, writer, motivational speaker, and beacon of inspiration, Lynn Cox has lived a tale of endurance. Over the course of more than 35 years, Lynne accomplished swims setting world records, opening borde…

1
Writing Sapphic Fantasy and Indie Publishing with Tamara Jerée 54:11

4M ago54:11

54:11

Written In Melanin: Spotlighting Melanated Creativity, A Conversation with Indie Author Tamara Jerée In this episode of the 'Written In Melanin' podcast, host C. M. Lockhart welcomes indie author, Tamara Jerée to discuss their experiences and writing journey, including a detailed look at their experiences with creative writing academic programs (MF…

1
80. Lars Iyer, "My Weil" 42:26

4M ago42:26

42:26

We talk to writer Lars Iyer about his smart, sophisticated, and very funny campus novel, My Weil, in which a group of Disaster Studies PhD students in Manchester befriend a modern-day Simone Weil. Thank you for listening! If you like what you hear, give us a follow at: X: Across the Pond, Galley Beggar Press, Interabang Books, Lori Feathers, Sam Jo…

1
Healing Verses: The Journey of the Poetry Pharmacy with Deborah Alma 32:17

4M ago32:17

32:17

In this epsidoe, I chat with Deborah Alma, the visionary co-founder of the Poetry Pharmacy, in Shropshire, UK, about how poetic verses can be the balm for our emotional ailments. Our conversation flourishes through Deborah’s inspiring tale of the ‘emergency poet’ and her evolution towards establishing a tranquil sanctuary where poetry is the prescr…

1
Exploring Human Desire and the Intersection of Psychotherapy and Storytelling with Maxine Mei-Fung Chung 29:01

4M ago29:01

29:01

In this episode, Maxine Mei-Fung Chung shares a glimpse into the psyche's profound influence on creativity and personal growth. I found my own experiences with psychoanalysis echoed in our dialogue, highlighting the transformative power it has on both the canvas, the page, and the mind. Maxine's articulate distinction between psychoanalysis and oth…

1
Exploring the Power of ChatGPT for Authors with Celeste Harte 50:07

4M ago50:07

50:07

In this episode of the Written In Melanin podcast, C. M. Lockhart, chats with Celeste Harte, a fantasy writer and expert on ChatGPT. They delve into their experiences as Black, independent authors, highlighting the challenges, evolution, and inspirations along the journey. Discussing everything from online writing platforms, the process of world bu…

1
79. Sebastián Martínez Daniell, "Two Sherpas" 50:52

4M ago50:52

50:52

Reading IS sexy; Sendak estate publshes posthumous kid's book; and we talk to Sebastián Martínez Daniell about his novel, Two Sherpas, published by Charco Press and longlisted for the Republic of Consciousness Prize, US & Canada. Thank you for listening! If you like what you hear, give us a follow at: X: Across the Pond, Galley Beggar Press, Intera…

1
The Heart of the Community: Inside Bozeman's Country Bookshelf 18:57

4M ago18:57

18:57

Have you ever wandered into a bookstore and felt like you've come home? That's the magic Ariana Paliobagis, owner of Country Bookshop and her team, weaves in Bozeman, Montana. In this episode, I speak with store manager Jamie Winter about the rich literary landscape of Montana, where names like Ivan Doig and Betsy Gaines Quammen are as much a part …

1
Nature's Narratives and the Art of Storytelling With Author Melissa Marr 39:50

5M ago39:50

39:50

When the roots of storytelling are as deep and winding as the Appalachian Mountains themselves, it's no wonder that Melissa Marr has such a profound connection to weaving tales that captivate and enchant. In this episode, we journey through Melissa's life, from her formative years under the influence of her grandmother's stories to her academic pur…

1
Promoting Black Literature: A Discussion with the Hurston Wright Foundation 41:56

5M ago41:56

41:56

In this episode of Written In Melanin podcast, host CM Lockhart speaks with special guest DeAndréa Johnson, an educator, writer and the Writing Programs Manager at the Hurston Wright Foundation. The discussion offers an in-depth introduction to the foundation, its mission, and the many resources it provides to support Black authors. Besides sharing…

1
78. Alexis Wright, "Praiseworthy" 50:56

5M ago50:56

50:56

Is streaming bad for audiobooks? We talk longlists for the Galley Beggar Press short story prize and the Republic of Consciousness Prize for small presses in the US & Canada. And legendary Australian author Alexis Wright joins us to talk about her epic novel, Praiseworthy. Thank you for listening! If you like what you hear, give us a follow at: X: …

1
Turning Pages and Fostering Community: The Story of Mrs. Dalloway's Bookstore 39:03

5M ago39:03

39:03

Embark on a literary adventure with Mandy Jackson-Beverly as she sits down with Eric and Jessica Green, whose love story with books has led them to become the proud owners of Mrs. Dalloway's, a cozy independent bookstore with a big heart in the Elmwood District of Berkeley, California. Their tale is not just one of passion for the written word but …

1
A Writer's Balance: Creativity, Self-Care, and the Journey of Publishing with Chloe Benjamin 41:51

5M ago41:51

41:51

As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, we're reminded that change is the only constant, a truth Chloe Benjamin knows all too well. This week on The Bookshop Podcast, join me for a profound journey with the author of The Anatomy of Dreams and The Immortalists as we navigate the intertwining paths of creativity and self-care. Chloe opens up abou…

1
Crime Fiction, Publishing, and the Black Love Series: An Interview with Antwan Floyd Sr. 46:36

5M ago46:36

46:36

In this episode of the Written In Melanin Podcast, host C. M. Lockhart interviews Antwan Floyd Sr., an author and publisher of Crime Fiction Media. Lockhart discusses Floyd’s journey from writing urban fiction to crime fiction, as well as the decision to establish his publishing company. Asking Floyd about his sources of inspiration, both touch on …

1
77. Paul Lynch "Prophet Song" 41:18

5M ago41:18

41:18

Keanu Reeves moves from screen to page; Wolf Hall trilogy Collective Read; and Booker Prize winner Paul Lynch joins us to talk about his novel Prophet Song and winning the most coveted prize in literature! Thank you for listening! If you like what you hear, give us a follow at: X: Across the Pond, Galley Beggar Press, Interabang Books, Lori Feather…

1
Ancestral Echoes: Navigating Intergenerational Trauma and the Art of Memoir Writing with Diana Raab 31:36

5M ago31:36

31:36

In this episode, I chat with Diana Raab, MFA, PhD, about writing, intergenerational trauma, the art of writing memoir, and her new book, Hummingbird: Messages from My Ancestors, A memoir with reflection and writing prompts . Diana is a memoirist, poet, workshop leader, thought-leader and award-winning author of fourteen books. Her work has been wid…

1
Turning the Page: How Blue Willow Bookshop Weaves Community and Resilience in the Face of Literary Challenges 36:36

6M ago36:36

36:36

Have you ever wandered into a bookstore and felt immediately at home? Valerie Koehler, the warm and spirited owner of Blue Willow Bookshop, invites us into her literary world, where every shelf has a story. Our conversation takes us down the winding path that led her to the helm of this cherished local haven. She opens up about the shop's thoughtfu…

1
76. Mike McCormack, "This Plague of Souls" 35:44

6M ago35:44

35:44

Irish author Mike McCormack joins Sam and Lori to talk about his latest novel, This Plague of Souls, the second novel of a triptych following his award-winning Solar Bones. Thank you for listening! If you like what you hear, give us a follow at: X: Across the Pond, Galley Beggar Press, Interabang Books, Lori Feathers, Sam Jordison Instagram: Across…

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Indie Bookstore Owner Podcasts

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