Best Podcast Mandy JacksonBeverly Podcasts (2025)

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The Literary Heartbeat of Santa Barbara: Jen Lemberger at Chaucer's Books 38:59

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1d ago38:59

38:59

Send us a text In this episode, I chat with Jen Lemberger, co-owner of Chaucer's Books. Nestled in Santa Barbara's Loreto Plaza sits a literary institution fifty-one years in the making. Chaucer's Books, now under the stewardship of Jen Lemberger and Greg Feitt, stands as a testament to the enduring power of independent bookstores in our communitie…

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Publishing's Invisible DNA: A Deep Dive with John W. Warren 37:56

15d ago37:56

37:56

Send us a text What happens behind the scenes before a book reaches your hands? John Warren pulls back the curtain on modern publishing in this fascinating conversation that travels from his unexpected entry into the industry to where books are headed in our AI-driven future. Warren's publishing journey began in 1992 when a Mexican publisher hired …

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Vinny Browne and the Magic of Charlie Byrne's Bookshop 38:30

29d ago38:30

38:30

Send us a text In this episode, I’m chatting with Vinny Browne from Charlie Byrne's Bookshop in the heart of Galway City, Ireland. At Charlie Byrne’s, you can explore their labyrinthine maze of over 100,000 books: new, second-hand, bargain, and antiquarian. Vinny takes us behind the scenes of this beloved institution, revealing how its organic grow…

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Tom Muckian & Roe River Books: The shortest river stands against the Amazon tide 41:02

1M ago41:02

41:02

Send us a text In this episode, I chat with Tom Muckian about Roe River Books, a thriving independent bookshop in Dundalk, Ireland. The name itself carries a powerful story of resistance. Tom deliberately named his shop after the world's shortest river as a symbolic counterpoint to Amazon, the world's longest. "I want to be the polar opposite of wh…

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Author and Playwright Lucy Caldwell on Identity, Art, and Belonging 54:57

2M ago54:57

54:57

Send us a text In this episode, I chat with Lucy Caldwell about contemporary Irish literature's vibrant yet complex landscape, her latest novel, These Days, and profound philosophical insights. Growing up in Belfast during the Troubles in a "mixed marriage" family—Protestant father, Catholic mother—Caldwell developed a unique perspective that infor…

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Literary Visionary: Aina Marti of Héloïse Press 34:22

2M ago34:22

34:22

Send us a text In this episode, I chat with Aina Marti, founder of Heloise Press, who shares her journey from academia to independent publishing and how she's created a home for contemporary female voices from around the world. • From academic roots studying Spanish and English literature to completing a PhD in comparative literature • How reading …

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Paul Rudnick's Latest Novel, What Is Wrong With You? Is A Laugh-Out-Loud Look At Modern Love 1:07:46

2M ago1:07:46

1:07:46

Send us a text In this episode, Mandy welcomes Paul Rudnick back to the show to discuss his hilarious new novel What Is Wrong With You? Synopsis A tech billionaire and the flight attendant he’s marrying. A TV superhero who used to be married to the flight attendant. A Manhattan book editor and the sensitivity associate who got him fired. A twenty-t…

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From Bookshop to Publishing House: Jean-Paul L. Garnier's Literary Journey 31:38

3M ago31:38

31:38

Send us a text In this episode, I speak with sci-fi writer, editor, and publisher Jean-Paul L. Garnier, who shares his journey from avid reader to the owner of Space Cowboy Books, a thriving indie bookstore and publishing house in Joshua Tree, California. He reveals how science fiction offers writers complete creative freedom to explore human psych…

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The Layers of Legacy in Nayantara Roy's Debut Novel The Magnificent Ruins 32:27

3M ago32:27

32:27

Send us a text Discover the intricate layers of family dynamics and cultural identity in The Magnificent Ruins, the debut novel by Nayantara Roy. Set against the vibrant backdrops of Brooklyn and Kolkata, the story centers around Lila, a millennial who inherits her grandfather's crumbling mansion, unleashing a wave of family secrets and legacies th…

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Kett's Books: A Community's Triumph in Wymondham, UK 28:17

4M ago28:17

28:17

Send us a text The story of Kett's Books reveals how a community rallied to keep a beloved local bookshop in their town. Through the values of collaboration and empathy, the bookshop has become a thriving center for readers and volunteers alike, bridging the gap between literature and community. • Discussion of the closure of the original local boo…

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From Journalism to Novels: Marissa Stapley on Writing, Grunge, and Creative Success 31:00

4M ago31:00

31:00

Send us a text In this episode, I chat with Marissa Stapley about her novel The Lightning Bottles. The story navigates the intertwined paths of love, fame, and addiction through the lens of the 90s music scene. The episode explores themes of identity, media scrutiny, and the struggle for redemption, highlighting the complex dynamics between its cha…

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Cathy Slater Owner of Dulwich Books, U.K. 27:02

4M ago27:02

27:02

Send us a text Join me in conversation with Cathy Slater, owner of Dulwich Books, as she sheds light on the profound connection between independent bookstores and their communities. Through her journey, Cathy illustrates how booksellers can make a significant impact by understanding readers' needs while emphasizing diversity in literature and the i…

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Innovative Bookshop Strategies Unveiled With Rosebud Book Barn's GM Matt Lupica 37:17

5M ago37:17

37:17

Send us a text In this episode, I chat with Matt Lupica, General Manager of Rosebud Book Barn, a family-run independent bookstore in Victoria, Australia. We explore the unique relationship between the bookstore and its community, the importance of customer feedback, and the innovative tools that help independent bookstores thrive in today's digital…

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Translating Italian Literature: A Journey with Oonagh Stransky 35:38

5M ago35:38

35:38

Send us a text In this episode, I chat with translator Oonagh Stransky about her love of the Italian language, the importance of small presses, Héloïse Press, and the art of translating books to English. Oonagh Stransky has translated a range of fiction and nonfiction writers, including Roberto Saviano, Pier Paolo Pasolini, Giuseppe Pontiggia, and …

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Jennifer Clement: From Dance to Writing, Advocacy, and the Power of Storytelling 41:02

6M ago41:02

41:02

Send us a text Jennifer Clement is President Emerita of the human rights and freedom of expression organization PEN International and the only woman to hold the office of President (2015-2021) since the organization was founded in 1921. Under her leadership, the groundbreaking PEN International Women’s Manifesto and The Democracy of the Imagination…

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Threads of History and Fiction with Kimberly Brock 26:57

6M ago26:57

26:57

Send us a text Hi, In this episode, I chat with Kimberly Brock about her novel, The Fabled Earth. Kimberly Brock is the bestselling author of The Lost Book of Eleanor Dare, which was shortlisted for the prestigious Townsend Prize for Fiction, and The River Witch, recipient of the Georgia Author of the Year Award. Kimberly, a former actor and specia…

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From Corporate Hustle to Cottagecore and Books: Ova Ceren's Journey of Literary Passion 24:30

6M ago24:30

24:30

Send us a text In this episode, I chat with Ova Ceren about her highly popular social media channels excusemyreading, her upcoming debut novel, and reading. Ova Ceren is a creative spirit nestled in the heart of Cambridge, sharing the magic of books, reading, and cottagecore. With a passion for cozy living, Ova has cultivated a unique space on Inst…

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Madeline Martin's Journey from Corporate Life to Author 25:38

7M ago25:38

25:38

Send us a text Madeline Martin, bestselling author of historical fiction and romance, joins us for an intriguing discussion on her journey from business analyst to full-time writer. Her childhood experiences as an army brat in Germany ignited a fascination with history, leading to meticulously researched novels. Set against the backdrop of World Wa…

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Exploring Nostalgia, Friendship, and Creativity with Joyce Carol Oates 43:27

7M ago43:27

43:27

Send us a text Hi, and welcome to The Bookshop Podcast! In this episode, I chat with Joyce Carol Oates about the 2024 republication of her novel Broke Heart Blues by Akashic Books. We explore how nostalgia and adolescent pressures shape her storytelling, with John Reddy Hart at the center—a character in Broke Heart Blues who encapsulates the dual n…

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Exploring the American Book Center: Martijn Mertz on Bookstore Leadership and Amsterdam's Literary Scene 22:10

7M ago22:10

22:10

Send us a text In this episode, I'm in conversation with Martijn Meerts, the co-director of the American Book Center in Amsterdam. Martijn's anthropology background subtly colors his approach to this role, and he shares how it adds a unique perspective to his daily work. We also uncover the enchanting history of the American Book Center, originally…

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From Paralegal to Rom-Com Author: Danica Nava's Journey of Native American Representation in Literature 30:26

8M ago30:26

30:26

Send us a text What drives a paralegal to switch gears and pen a rom-com novel? Discover the inspiring journey of Danica Nava, an enrolled citizen of the Chickasaw Nation, as she shares her transition from the corporate world to the literary scene. We delve into her academic achievements, the barriers she overcame as a first-generation college grad…

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Unlocking Ancient Puzzles: A Journey with Danielle Trussoni on The Bookshop Podcast 27:17

8M ago27:17

27:17

Send us a text What if unlocking the secrets of an ancient puzzle could take you on a thrilling journey across continents? Welcome back to The Bookshop Podcast, where we sit down with New York Times bestselling author Danielle Trussoni to uncover the mysteries behind her latest novel, The Puzzle Box. As the second installment in the Mike Brink seri…

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Clare Beams: Magical Realism, Maternal Suffering, and Her New Novel The Garden 30:17

9M ago30:17

30:17

Send us a text In this episode, I chat with author Clare Beams about her new novel The Garden, earning her MFA from Columbia University, her surprising stint as a high school English teacher on Cape Cod, and how these experiences have informed her writing career. Claire's work is renowned for its enchanting touch of magical realism, earning compari…

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Exploring Mental Health and 80s High School Life with Author and Poet, David Ebenbach 28:40

9M ago28:40

28:40

Send us a text In this episode, I chat with author and poet David Ebenbach about Possible Happiness, his latest teen and YA novel set in Philadelphia in the 80s. What can a high school journey in the late 80s tell us about today's struggles with mental health and sexuality? Acclaimed author and academic David Ebenbach explores this question through…

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T.J. Klune on Writing, Advocacy, and Somewhere Beyond The Sea 45:42

9M ago45:42

45:42

Send us a text In this episode, I chat with one of my favorite authors, TJ Klune, about his much-awaited sequel to The House In The Cerulian Sea, titled Somewhere Beyond The Sea. TJ discusses the characters in the story, how he refills his creative cup, and how he uses his platform to speak about the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. In Somewhere Bey…

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From Cult to Community: Dr. Kate Gale's Journey in Nonprofit Publishing and Advocacy 37:59

9M ago37:59

37:59

Send us a text In this episode, I chat with the accomplished author, editor, educator, speaker, and prominent figure in contemporary American literature, Dr. Kate Gale, Dr. Gale is the Publisher, Co-founder, and Managing Editor of Red Hen Press, one of the largest independent literary publishers in the United States. Under her stewardship, Red Hen …

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James R. Hansen: Exploring the Depths of Human Spirit and Achievement 1:00:37

10M ago1:00:37

1:00:37

Send us a text Have you ever wondered what it takes to document the most pivotal moments in air, space, and exploration history? Join us for an exclusive conversation with renowned historian James R. Hansen as he shares his remarkable journey from an academic in the history of science and technology to a leading NASA historian. We'll uncover the me…

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From Teacher to Bookshop Owner: Lizzie Moss's Journey and The Magic of Literature 27:51

10M ago27:51

27:51

Send us a text What drives someone to leave behind the familiar comforts of a stable career and leap into the unknown waters of entrepreneurship? Join us as we uncover the inspiring journey of Lizzie Moss, the heart and soul behind Heron Books in Bristol, UK. From teaching classics and working at Waterstones, Lizzie's story is one of resilience and…

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Rethinking Flood Management: Insights from Tim Palmer on Climate Change, Conservation, and Community Resilience 39:39

10M ago39:39

39:39

Send us a text Have you ever wondered how the historical floods of the past can shape our future defenses against natural disasters? In this latest episode, I chat with Tim Palmer, an award-winning author and photographer. Tim shares his profound insights on rivers, conservation, and the urgent need to rethink our approach to flood management. Tim …

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Corey Roskin on Books, Activism, and Community Growth 33:37

10M ago33:37

33:37

Send us a text Hi Fellow Booklovers! In this episode, I chatted with community organizer, author coordinator, and interviewer Corey Roskin about how literature can shape and uplift communities. Corey dives into his rich background in psychology and social services, detailing his work on the West Hollywood Book Fair, Lambda Lit Fest, and Pride on th…

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Exploring the Rich Tapestry of The Coast Road With Author Alan Murrin 33:47

11M ago33:47

33:47

Send us a text Hi there! In this week's episode, Irish author Alan Murrin tells us about his childhood as an "author," his teen life ensconced in rigorous piano practice, and mastering the art of creative writing at the University of East Anglia. Learn how his varied career in the art world and as a bookseller in London shaped his unique voice, mak…

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Reinvention, Resilience, and Reading: Diane Park’s Journey to Thriving Bookshop Owner 33:21

11M ago33:21

33:21

Send us a text What drives a woman to reinvent herself in her 40s and open a thriving bookshop championing strong women and diverse voices? Join me as I sit down with Diane Park, the remarkable owner of Wave of Nostalgia in Hayworth, UK. Diane’s journey is anything but conventional. From leaving school at 16 and facing early adult responsibilities …

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Quickly, While They Still Have Horses: An Interview with Jan Carson 47:31

11M ago47:31

47:31

Send us a text Hi, This week, I'm in conversation with one of my favorite authors, Jan Carson. We talk about her latest release, Quickly, While They Still Have Horses, how growing up during the Troubles in Ireland fueled her passion for reaching across divided communities through writing and the arts, and how the Irish writing community supports fl…

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Kathleen Caldwell and the Heartbeat of Montclair Village 30:38

11M ago30:38

30:38

Send us a text In this episode, I'm in conversation with Kathleen Caldwell, the passionate owner of A Great Good Place for Books in Montclair Village, Oakland, who opens up about her incredible journey in the book industry. From her college days navigating aisles at Crown Books to orchestrating author events at prestigious bookstores like Shakespea…

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

11M ago59:11

59:11

Send us a text 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 …

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

12M ago26:06

26:06

Send us a text 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 t…

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

12M ago42:10

42:10

Send us a text 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. Chri…

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

1y ago48:45

48:45

Send us a text 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, comple…

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

1y ago28:21

28:21

Send us a text 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 per…

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

1y ago31:49

31:49

Send us a text 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…

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

1y ago26:51

26:51

Send us a text 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 publis…

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

1y ago33:05

33:05

Send us a text 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 …

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

1y ago1:02:31

1:02:31

Send us a text 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 b…

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

1y ago30:39

30:39

Send us a text 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…

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

1y ago53:42

53:42

Send us a text 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…

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

1y ago45:18

45:18

Send us a text 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 pleasu…

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Danielle Trussoni: New York Times Bestselling Author 32:36

1y ago32:36

32:36

Send us a text 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 th…

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

1y ago34:40

34:40

Send us a text 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 tes…

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

1y ago22:30

22:30

Send us a text 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, a…

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

1y ago39:30

39:30

Send us a text 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…