Best Not Your Average Book Report Podcasts (2025)

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Best Marketing Strategies in Publishing with Sam Fox of HarperCollins | Book Marketing & Community 🎙 52:13

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8d ago52:13

52:13

Welcome to another episode of the Creators Talk Podcast! In this conversation, we dive deep with Sam Fox, Senior Director of Content Creation & Strategy at HarperCollins. With a background at Teen Vogue and Condé Nast, Sam brings a unique perspective on storytelling, marketing, and building inclusive book communities. From her journey as a dancer t…

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The History of the NBA: Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant & Jerry West (w/ Roland Lazenby) 1:28:51

15d ago1:28:51

1:28:51

In this episode of the Author Talks Podcast, we sit down with legendary sports biographer Roland Lazenby, the bestselling author behind definitive basketball books on Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Jerry West. Roland shares behind-the-scenes stories, family histories, and pivotal basketball moments that shaped the modern NBA, from …

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2x Super Bowl Champ Malcolm Jenkins on Owning Your Voice, Entrepreneurship & Life After the NFL 🎙 43:27

1M ago43:27

43:27

2x Super Bowl Champion Malcolm Jenkins joins Bookum Author Talks Podcast to discuss life after the NFL, building generational wealth, and why owning your voice matters now more than ever. In this wide-ranging conversation, Jenkins shares stories about his draft day moment, the pressures of leadership, founding businesses while still playing, and hi…

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How to Sell More Books in 2025 as a Self-Published Author | Tips from Book Strategist Steph Moon 🎙 47:17

1M ago47:17

47:17

In this episode of The Bookum Nook Show, Book marketing strategist Stephanie Moon shares what’s working right now to help authors sell more books. Whether you’re self-published or traditionally published, this episode covers how to drive real sales, build an online presence, land media, and market your book with confidence. If you’ve ever wondered …

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Reporting Book News, Trends, Recommendations & Changing Media w/ USA Today’s Clare Mulroy 47:39

2M ago47:39

47:39

In this interview, USA Today's Clare Mulroy talks about the world of book news, trends, recommendations, and the changing media landscape. She discusses her path into book reporting and the future of journalism in the book world, along with her passion for literature and media. Timestamps: 1:04 - Hunger Games 2:02 - Midnight Releases 4:02 - Early R…

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How Good Was Larry Bird Really? Indiana HS Days, Boston Celtics & Magic Johnson | Randy Mills 1:16:28

2M ago1:16:28

1:16:28

How good was Larry Bird really? In this interview with author and historian Randy Mills, we go deep into Larry Bird’s high school days in Indiana, his sudden rise to stardom, his time at Indiana State, and the rivalry that shaped basketball history with Magic Johnson. We also discuss how Bob Knight nearly coached Bird, why Boston was the perfect ci…

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Book Publishing Process + Social Media Marketing | Megan (BooksNblazers) of Penguin Random House 🎙 33:54

2M ago33:54

33:54

Ever wondered how books actually get published—and how to market them in today’s social media world? In this episode, we sit down with Megan (BooksNblazers) of Penguin Random House to break down the book publishing process, content creation, and how authors can grow online. Whether you're an aspiring author, book content creator, or just curious ab…

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Morgan DeBaun Reveals How to Rewrite Your Rules for Lasting Entrepreneurial Success & Wealth 🎙 42:25

3M ago42:25

42:25

In this episode of the Founders Talk Podcast, Morgan DeBaun, CEO of Blavity Inc. AfroTech and author of our April Founders Club Book Pick Rewrite Your Rules, shares powerful insights on entrepreneurship, lasting success, and building wealth. Morgan discusses how to rewrite the rules for success, balancing intensity and joy, the secrets to avoiding …

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Will Packer on ‘Who Better Than You?’ Book: Film Financing, Dreaming Big & Healthy Arrogance 32:55

3M ago32:55

32:55

In this exclusive interview, Will Packer, NY Times Bestselling Author of Who Better Than You?, shares invaluable insights on film financing, dreaming big, and developing healthy arrogance for success. As a blockbuster film producer, Will has grossed over $1 billion worldwide at the box office, with 10 movies opening at #1, including: Stomp The Yard…

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The King of Groove: John Robinson Talks Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, Off the Wall & Iconic Hits 59:47

3M ago59:47

59:47

In this episode, we sit down with the legendary John Robinson, the most recorded drummer in modern music history. Known for his work with musical icons like Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, and Steve Winwood, John gives us an exclusive look into his career, his new book The King of Groove, and the stories behind some of the most iconic hits of all ti…

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How Reading Changed My Life l Jerid P. Woods (@ABlackManReading) on The Power of Books & Truth 1:08:56

4M ago1:08:56

1:08:56

Join us on the Book Creators Talk Podcast as Jerid P. Woods, the force behind A Black Man Reading, shares his journey from devouring Little Golden Books at age 3 to becoming a cultural catalyst for creative resistance. In this raw, unfiltered conversation, he dives into: Early Reading & Moments That Made Him Come Alive: From 50 pages an hour to lif…

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What No One Wants to Say About Books – Traci Thomas on Pop Culture & 2025 Trends 40:05

4M ago40:05

40:05

In this candid conversation, Traci Thomas, host of The Stacks podcast, shares her unfiltered thoughts on the literary world, pop culture, and what readers can expect in 2025. From her personal writing philosophy to her favorite book-to-screen adaptations, Traci offers insights that challenge conventional views and spark meaningful discussions. Char…

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How Writers Get Noticed: Randy Winston on Publishing, Fiction & The Black List 49:05

4M ago49:05

49:05

In this episode, I sit down with Randy Winston, Creative Director of Fiction at The Black List, to discuss the publishing industry, the craft of writing, and how writers can stand out. We dive into the creative process, the role of The Black List in fiction, traditional vs. hybrid publishing, and what truly makes a great fiction story. If you're a …

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What History Gets Wrong About Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. | Pulitzer Prize Author Jonathan Eig 🎙 44:04

5M ago44:04

44:04

In this exclusive interview, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jonathan Eig joins us to discuss his groundbreaking biography, King: A Life. We dive deep into the real Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.—his struggles, triumphs, and the misconceptions that history has perpetuated. 📌 Timestamps: 1:04 - MLK Day in 2025 2:34 - Montgomery Bus Boycott 4:03 - MLK Sr.’…

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Lupita Aquino (@lupita.reads) on Latine Lit, Community, and Navigating the Bookish World | 🎙 54:56

5M ago54:56

54:56

In this episode of the Book Creators Talk Podcast, we sit down with Lupita Aquino (@lupita.reads), a passionate advocate for Latine literature and vibrant bookish content creator. Known for her work uplifting diverse voices through the #ReadLatineLit Challenge and La Comunidad Reads Book Club, Lupita shares her journey, creative process, and insigh…

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How Tanya Sam Grew a 10K+ Book Club and Started a Publishing Company for Women’s Stories l 🎙 59:02

6M ago59:02

59:02

In this episode of the Founders Talk Podcast, Tanya Sam shares her incredible journey from building a 10K+ member book club to launching a publishing company focused on amplifying women’s voices. Tanya opens up about her entrepreneurial path, the importance of community, and her mission to support diverse voices in publishing. If you’re a female en…

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The Evolution of Taylor Swift's Style: Sarah Chapelle on What Her Fashion Says About Her Music Eras 49:54

7M ago49:54

49:54

Dive into the fascinating world of Taylor Swift’s style in this episode of the Bookum Author Talks Podcast! We’re joined by Sarah Chapelle, author of Taylor Swift Style, and special guest host Hannah Lisa Lohr, creator of the MoodyReaders Book Club. Together, we explore how Taylor’s fashion evolution reflects her music eras, iconic looks, and story…

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2024 Election Insights with Sharon McMahon: What to Expect + 'The Small & The Mighty' 1:02:31

8M ago1:02:31

1:02:31

In this episode of Author Talks, we sit down with Sharon McMahon—renowned government educator and author of the #1 New York Times bestseller 'The Small & The Mighty'—to discuss the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election, what to expect on Election Day, Unsung American Heroes and much more. Get your copy of "The Small & The Mighty" by Sharon McMahon Today …

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Paul Scheer on 'The League,' Healing from Trauma, and Comedic Hollywood Stories l Author Talks 🎙 1:09:13

8M ago1:09:13

1:09:13

In this episode, we discuss Paul Scheer's new book "Joyful Recollections of Trauma", starring in the show, The League, comedian's dark sides, and the personal stories he shares in his new book. Paul is author of the New Times Bestselling Book Joyful Recollections of Trauma. He is also the cohost of two podcast: How Did This Get Made Unspooled Podca…

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How Online Book Culture is Changing According to Alina 1:08:01

8M ago1:08:01

1:08:01

In this episode of Creators Talk Podcast, Alina, the creator behind According to Alina, shares her unique perspective on the rapidly evolving online book culture. We dive into her journey from growing up in Europe to becoming a content creator known for her insightful commentary on everything from overconsumption in BookTok to the nuances of being …

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Hannah Lisa Lohr on Building Her Home Library, Moody Reads, and Support Book Content Creators l 🎙 56:11

9M ago56:11

56:11

Our guest today on the Creators Talk Podcast is the exceptional Hannah Lisa Lohr. @HannahLisaLohr , formerly the paperback Bruncher, is a book content creator and the host of the MoodyReaders Book Club. Hannah is a book enthusiast, a twilight fan, will travel for books and has a spectacular home library! Timestamp: 0:55 - Intro 1:22 - Building Home…

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Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret by Judy Blume 34:37

1+ y ago34:37

34:37

Join hosts Sam and Sarah on this episode of "Not Your Average Book Report" as they dive into Judy Blume's timeless classic "Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret." Discover how this beloved coming-of-age tale resonates with readers and explore its enduring themes of identity, friendship, and faith. Power Rank These Three from Worst to Least Worst: 1…

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Matilda by Roald Dahl 38:59

1+ y ago38:59

38:59

In this episode we're reading Matilda by Roald Dahl. Sam and Sarah share laughter-inducing excerpts (You can do it, Brucie!) and reminisce about their favorite teachers who inspired them. Immerse yourself in a delightful blend of nostalgia, humor, and genuine moments as we discuss this classic.By Not Your Average Book Report

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The Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary 23:28

2+ y ago23:28

23:28

Ah, the sweet nostalgic halls of the Mountain View Inn where you'll find loud dogs, plenty of crumbs and perhaps a MOUSE bbbbbbbbbbddddd-ing by on a motorcycle. We loved this discussion of Beverly Cleary's The Mouse and the Motorcycle and think you will too! Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! Got comments or book suggestions? You can n…

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The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett 27:19

2+ y ago27:19

27:19

Let's journey to Yorkshire in England to the wild and wonderful moor where Mistress Mary Quite Contrary is discovering some things about the world and herself! It's the Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett!By Not Your Average Book Report

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Our Friend S.D. Smith Serves Up Some Sandwiches 35:28

2+ y ago35:28

35:28

Today we are joined by S.D. Smith, author of the Green Ember series, who tells us about things like writing being a job you do with an apron on, telling stories to your kids and we find a way to talk about Narnia. You can find Sam on the web at sdsmith.com. There you can find info about his newest book: Jack Zulu and the Waylander's Key.…

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Wonder by R.J. Palacio 39:41

2+ y ago39:41

39:41

We are back from our little fall break and we've got a doozy. We read Wonder by R.J. Palacio based on a recommendation from our friend (who you might just be hearing from later on in the show!). Wonder is a heart-warming book in the truest sense and we hope you enjoy it and this episode as much as we did.…

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Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling 39:45

2+ y ago39:45

39:45

It all ends here. "One will die at the hands of the other, for neither shall live while the other survives." Join us as we conclude our Summer of Potter (in October, it's fine, it's fine).By Not Your Average Book Report

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Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling 28:29

3y ago28:29

28:29

Just when we think things can't get worse, they do. And I'm afraid for poor Harry, this is far from the end of his troubles but we're here every step of the way as we continue our journey through the Harry Potter series in our SUMMER OF POTTER.By Not Your Average Book Report

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Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J.K. Rowling 29:34

3y ago29:34

29:34

Ah, being 15 again: being angry all the time, feeling misunderstood and of course girls bursting into tears when you kiss and the evil wizard invading your dreams. Wait what? Yep, things are getting wild for Harry Potter and we're here to discuss as we dive into the fifth book in the Harry Potter series!…

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Our Friend Raychel is a Harry Potter Professor 36:23

3y ago36:23

36:23

Today we are joined by our friend Raychel McKelvy! Within minutes, Raychel blows my mind with some of the symbolism in the books and the conversation only gets better from there. Rachel is an actress, a writer as well as an assistant professor of communications at Moody Bible Institute. She also happens to a be a Ravenclaw! Be sure to follow Rayche…

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Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling 32:29

3y ago32:29

32:29

We rejoin Harry Potter as he faces new dangers like dragons, merpeople and talking to girls! It's Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire as we continue our Summer of Potter.By Not Your Average Book Report

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Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling 24:51

3y ago24:51

24:51

The worst thing about prison was the dementors! But for Harry Potter, those dementors are now swirling around Hogwarts looking for the murderer Sirius Black who apparently wants nothing more than to murder Harry! Join us as we continue our Summer of Potter with the third book in the series, the Prisoner of Azkaban.…

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Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling 28:04

3y ago28:04

28:04

It's the Summer of Potter! We're going to read the entire series by September and you should join us! The weather is heating up and so are things at Hogwarts as Harry faces new perils like Dobby trying to save his life, giant snakes and Ernie McMillan's accusations! It's Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.…

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Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling 33:47

3y ago33:47

33:47

It's the Summer of Potter! We're going to read the entire series by September and you should join us! Today we're kicking it off with Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's (or Philosopher's) Stone! Here's the article where Rowling discusses where the K. came from. Here's Rowling's diagram for Harry Potter and the Half-blood Prince.…

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The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate 31:58

3y ago31:58

31:58

The 2013 Newberry Award winning The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate is a precious story about a gorilla named Ivan who lives in a shopping mall with his friends Bob the stray dog and Stella the elephant. Join us as we discuss this fun book and themes like belonging, caring for animals and more.…

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The Giver by Lois Lowry 31:18

3y ago31:18

31:18

IMPORTANT NOTE: The Giver falls more in the young adult category and deals with some heavier themes which young ears may not be ready for. So if you’re listening with youngsters around, we advise discretion. We're diving into the classic The Giver by Lois Lowry. Did you know this 1993 classic was the #11 most challenged book (a challenge is an atte…

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Redwall by Brian Jacques 32:13

3y ago32:13

32:13

Eulalia! We're jumping into the first of Brian Jaques Redwall series, the eponymous story that started it all. And to make it even more special, we're joined by Nat Scott (Sarah's husband, Sam's brother), an english teacher who loves this series!By Not Your Average Book Report

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Holes by Louis Sachar 32:27

3+ y ago32:27

32:27

This week we are reading the 1999 Newberry Medal winner, Holes by Louis Sachar. Join us as we journey with Stanley Yelnats to Camp Green Lake as he digs some holes (and learns so much more).By Not Your Average Book Report

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The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo 31:06

3+ y ago31:06

31:06

Get ready for all the feels because we're jumping into Kate DiCamillo's The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane.By Not Your Average Book Report

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My Father's Dragon by Ruth Stiles Gannett 24:04

3+ y ago24:04

24:04

Today we are reading My Father's Dragon by Ruth Stiles Gannett. Join us as we discuss lions getting their hair done, the beauty of imagination and have our very first guest join the show!By Not Your Average Book Report

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From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E. L. Konigsburg 36:42

3+ y ago36:42

36:42

On today's episode, we're discussing the 1967 Newberry Award winner, From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basel E. Frankweiler. We discuss running away, the desire in kids to be "seen" and how we all have secrets!By Not Your Average Book Report

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The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis 37:32

3+ y ago37:32

37:32

Oh yes, it's time to dive into C. S. Lewis's classic story about lampposts, fauns carrying parcels in the snow and Aslan. Specifically we want to discuss how relevant this story is to the Christmas season.By Not Your Average Book Report

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James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl 30:59

3+ y ago30:59

30:59

Today we're reading the James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl For more on Roald Dahl's life story and World War 2 experiences.By Not Your Average Book Report

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Charlotte's Web by E.B. White 33:00

3+ y ago33:00

33:00

It's our first episode! Today we're reading the 1952 classic Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White Show Notes: Here's the full C.S. Lewis quote Sam references: “No book is really worth reading at the age of ten which is not equally (and often far more) worth reading at the age of fifty – except, of course, books of information. The only imaginative works w…