The Bookum Nook Show

In this episode of the Bookum Creators Talk Podcast, we sit down with Turnpageswithmimi to explore what it means to be a reader in New York and how book culture continues to evolve across libraries, social media, and community spaces.We discuss growing up reading in Philadelphia and New York, the influence of the Brooklyn Public Library and The Book of HOV, and how fashion, identity, and culture shape modern reading experiences.This conversation also explores how book content creators are building communities online and offline, hosting book clubs, and redefining what it means to engage with books in a digital age.Topics include: reading culture in New York City  libraries and literary spaces  BookTok and book content creation  building a book community  hosting in-person book clubs  avoiding burnout as a creator  building a personal library If you are interested in books, reading culture, book clubs, libraries, and literary community building, this episode is for you.📚 Book Recommendations Mentioned:Big Girl Blitz by Danielle Allen Where the Wildflowers GrowBrady: A MemoirThe Seven DaughtersWith Love From HarlemLast Stop from InnocenceBurn Down Master’s House by Clay Cane Where to Find More from Mimi:https://linktr.ee/turnpageswithmimi?utm_source=threads&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bioABOUT BOOKUM:Make sure to download our Book Club App to join our Book Club or Start Your Own at https://www.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

In this episode of Bookum Author Talks Podcast, we sit down with author Paul Fischer, writer of The Last Kings of Hollywood, to explore one of the most important eras in film history.We break down how Francis Ford Coppola, George Lucas, and Steven Spielberg transformed Hollywood forever, shifting it from the old studio system into the blockbuster-driven industry we know today.From The Godfather, Star Wars, and Jaws to Indiana Jones and the rise of “high concept” filmmaking, this conversation explores how a generation of filmmakers gained creative control and reshaped global entertainment.We discuss: What Hollywood looked like before the “New Hollywood” era  How American Zoetrope changed filmmaker independence  The business deal behind Star Wars that changed Hollywood economics forever  The creation of the summer blockbuster with Jaws How studio power shifted during the Paramount “high concept” era  And how this era compares to today’s creator economy This is an hour conversation about storytelling, power, creativity, and the business decisions that defined modern cinema.Join our book community and book networking app: https://www.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

On this episode of the Bookum Author Talks Podcast, we sit down with Emely Rumble, author of Bibliotherapy in the Bronx, to explore how books and poetry can heal your mind, boost confidence, and help you grow emotionally. Em shares insights on the transformative power of reading, re-reading, and bibliotherapy — plus practical ways literature can connect you to your past, present, and future.We also talk about the books that shaped her life, the role of poetry in personal growth, and how reading can be a radical form of self-care.Get your copy of Bibliotherapy in the Bronx: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Bibliotherapy-in-the-Bronx/Emely-Rumble-LCSW/9781955905879 Join the Bookum Book Club & Download the App: https://www.bookumapp.comBooks Mentioned: Maya Angelou – I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, Toni Morrison – Beloved, Jason Reynolds, Frederick Joseph, Mindset, Love by the Books, Sky Full of Elephants, The Cost of Healing, Afurvent, Something We Said, Conjuring AmericaWhy Listen: Learn how reading can heal trauma  Build confidence through literature  Discover the power of bibliotherapy for personal and collective growth  Practical tips to make reading a tool for self-care and emotional development Timestamps: 1:15 - Bad Bunny SB Halftime Show 3:12 - The Power of Poetry 5:35 - The Power of Books 7:01 - What is Bibliotherapy? 7:35 - Getting into teaching Bibliotherapy 10:01 - How Books Help you Heal 10:54 - Why the Caged-Bird Sings? 13:01 - Gaining back your free time with reading 15:12 - The Power of Re-Reading 16:22 - Reading Beloved 18:12 - Your Past, Present, Future all live within the book 19:12 - Reading Children and Middle Grade Books for Healing Trauma 21:05 - Seeing yourself/your culture through books 24:01 - Sky Full of Elephants 25:53 - Seeing Progress through Bibliotherapy 28:55 - Using Reframing Language and Words 30:01 - Controlling Language 30:50 - How Different Genders Handle Bibliotherapy 33:01 - Handling and Naming Emotions 34:01 - Client Story on Growing through Bibliotherapy 37:20 - On Community 38:12 - Balancing Personal v. Work Reading 40:11 - On Book Clubs 41:03 - Writing Process 44:32 - Naming the book Bibliotherapy in the Bronx 48:22 - Last, Now, Next book 50:11 - Rapid-Fire Book Questions 52:55 - What Should Be In A Reader's Toolkit?This Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

Join us on Bookum Author Talks Podcast with James Keyes, former CEO of 7-Eleven and Blockbuster, and author of Education is Freedom.In this episode, James shares his journey from working at McDonald’s as a teen to leading billion-dollar companies, and how education and lifelong learning empower freedom and success. Discover: The lessons from his book Education is Freedom How cultural literacy and continuous learning shape leaders  Insights from running 7-Eleven Japan and revitalizing Blockbuster The power of being multidisciplinary—music, painting, flying—and how it impacts leadership  His perspective on student loans, reimagining education, and philanthropy📚 Get James Keyes’ book: Education is Freedom 📱 Download the Bookum app: https://www.bookumapp.comWhether you’re an aspiring leader, entrepreneur, or lifelong learner, this episode is packed with actionable lessons and career insights from one of the most accomplished business leaders today.Subscribe to Bookum Author Talks Podcast for more interviews with inspiring authors, creators, and leaders.This Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

Join the Author Talks Podcast as Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling shares his experiences from over 40 years in the United States Army, including combat in the Gulf War and reflections on leadership, courage, and character. Drawing from his book If I Don’t Return, Mark discusses the personal letters he wrote to his sons during wartime, the lessons he learned about faith, integrity, and leading under pressure, and what civilians need to understand about war in the Middle East.Whether you’re interested in military and veteran stories, leadership lessons, or understanding the personal cost of combat, this episode delivers insights you won’t hear anywhere else.Get your copy of "If I Don't Return" https://www.amazon.com/If-Dont-Return-Fathers-Wartime/dp/1966786727Download the Bookum App to join the conversation, explore author notes, and connect with other readers: https://www.bookumapp.comOptional Timestamps for Podcast Apps 1:06 ‑ Faith and Religion  3:48 ‑ Being in War  6:55 ‑ Writing Letters to His Son During War  9:02 ‑ Character & The Responsibility of Leadership  11:35 ‑ Revisiting Painful War Stories  13:19 ‑ Experiencing Survivor’s Guilt  14:10 ‑ Integrity & Leadership Values  17:43 ‑ Showing Emotions as a Leader  20:02 ‑ Fog of War // Making Decisions Under Pressure and Uncertainty  22:50 ‑ Wartime vs. Peacetime Leadership  26:19 ‑ Dealing With Fear During War This Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

On this episode of Author Talks Podcast, PBS NewsHour’s Geoff Bennett breaks down the golden age of Black comedy and its impact on American culture.We explore iconic shows like:The Fresh Prince of Bel-AirLiving SingleMartinA Different WorldIn Living ColorSanford and Son…and legendary comedians including Dave Chappelle, Eddie Murphy, Richard Pryor, Bill Cosby, Moms Mabley, and Redd Foxx. Geoff shares insights on: How comedians became truth tellers and cultural critics The evolution from minstrel shows and the Chitlin’ Circuit to mainstream success  Iconic 90s sitcom moments and their lasting impact on Black TV culture Behind-the-scenes influence of Quincy Jones, Barry Diller, and FOX What makes a great comedic bit and the essentials for a writer’s or comedian’s toolkit Whether you grew up laughing at Carlton’s dance, Will’s antics, or watching Chappelle push the limits of comedy, this episode is packed with insights on why the 90s changed TV forever.Timestamps00:58 - Top 5 Comedians 2:11 - Comedians are Truth Tellers 4:32 - TOBA & Minstrel Shows 5:20 - Billy Kersands 6:33 - Hattie McDaniels 7:31 - Comedy Styles (Bill Cosby & Richard Pryor) 9:01 - The Cosby Show 10:15 - The Art vs The Artist (Bill Cosby) 10:58 - A Different World 12:20 - Living Single 13:08 - A Different World Impact on HBCUs 13:44 - In Living Color 14:34 - Unreleased Pilot of In Living Color 15:37 - In Living Color – The Super Bowl 16:52 - Quincy Jones Impact on TV Sitcoms 17:46 - The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air 18:22 - Barry Diller & FOX 19:42 - Living Single Impact on TV 20:55 - Chappelle Show 21:18 - Who is the Joke for? 22:35 - 90s Impact on Culture 23:33 - Writing Process & Perfect Day of Writing 25:10 - Were the 90s the Best Decade? 28:18 - What Makes a Great Comedic Bit? 29:04 - What Should Be in a Writer’s Toolkit? 30:05 - What Should Be in a Comedian’s Toolkit?📚 Geoff Bennett’s BookBlack Out Loud: The Revolutionary History of Black Comedy from Vaudeville to ’90s Sitcoms https://www.harpercollins.com/products/black-out-loud-geoff-bennettJoin the Bookum CommunityDiscover books, join book clubs, and connect with readers: https://www.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

Join us on the Author Talks Podcast with New York Times Bestselling Author Keith O’Brien as we dive into the untold story of Larry Bird.  From his small-town beginnings in French Lick to becoming a national icon at Indiana State.We cover everything: recruiting drama, legendary teammates, international basketball, the 33–1 season, and the moments that made Bird a basketball legend.Grab Keith O’Brien’s new book Heartland to get the full story.Download the Bookum app for exclusive book content, podcasts, and notes: https://www.bookumapp.comTimestamps:1:02 - March Madness Predictions 2:06 - Jim Jones Coaching Larry Bird 4:50 - Larry Bird Senior Year in HS 6:30 - Bob Knight and Larry Bird 7:18 - Why Bob Knight Didn't Try to Bring Larry Bird Back to Indiana University? 10:02 - How Bill Hodges Got Larry Bird to Indiana State? 13:13 - Carl Nicks and Building the Team Around Bird 14:11 - Larry Bird's Dad's Role in His Life 17:43 - Harry and Larry Show at Indiana State 19:34 - Larry Bird International and European Basketball 22:12 - Larry Bird Fighting and Competitiveness 24:51 - Larry Bird as the Great White Hope 27:45 - Becoming a National Face 30:02 - Larry Bird vs Magic Johnson National Basketball Championship 33:50 - The Price of Fame on Larry Bird 35:24 - Writing Process and Perfect Day of Writing 38:10 - Advice on JournalismThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

Join us on the Bookum Creators Talk Podcast as we sit down with Amber Burns, a BookTube creator, vlogger, and content creator, to discuss her creative process, day-to-day life, and love for books. From starting her first blog to going in front of the camera, handling burnout, and building community, Amber shares the honest truth about life as a content creator.Whether you are a reader, aspiring creator, or just curious about what it is like behind the camera, this conversation is packed with insights, storytelling tips, and inspiration for your own creative journey.Episode Timestamps:1:11 - Thank You For Asking 1:31 - Birthday Month and Plans 2:23 - Favorite Books Growing Up 4:14 - Getting Into Content Creation 5:32 - Building First Blog 6:33 - Getting in Front of the Camera (Vlog) 8:33 - Content Creation Process 10:20 - The Storytelling Through Vlogging 11:54 - Getting B-Roll for Vlogs 13:22 - Themes Setting vs Goals Setting 16:01 - Consistency as a Creator 17:10 - Staying Authentic as a Content Creator 19:02 - The Solitude of Content Creation 20:33 - Handling Burnout as a Content Creator 20:55 - Setting Boundaries as a Content Creator 23:33 - On Community 25:33 - Importance of Journaling 26:56 - Morning Pages (The Artist’s Way) 27:20 - The Artist’s Way 28:51 - Journaling for Beginners (It’s Not Intimidating) 30:02 - Journaling Helping with Writing 30:45 - Organization and Planners 32:55 - Going Back to Analog 34:12 - Last, Now, Next Books 36:03 - How You Find Your Next Book? 38:33 - Writing a Romance Novel 39:44 - Rapid Fire Book Questions 42:44 - What Would You Like To See More of in the Book World? 43:12 - What Would You Like To See Less of in the Book World?Follow Amber Burns:Instagram: @byamberburns YouTube: Amber Burns TikTok: @byamberburnsJoin the Bookum Community:Download our social book club app to track your reading, connect with creators, and join conversations: www.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

In this episode of the Bookum Founders Talk Podcast, Kyle Colley sits down with Franklin Leonard, the founder of The Black List, the industry-leading platform that discovers and showcases the best screenplays and now fiction novels. Franklin shares his insights on Hollywood in 2026, the future of film, the Oscars, and what it really takes to break into the industry as a writer or filmmaker.We discuss:How The Black List expanded from screenplays to fiction booksFranklin’s unique approach to curation and discovering talentMajor Hollywood shifts, including Paramount, Warner Bros., Disney Sora Deal, and Netflix podcastingTips for writers navigating publishing and screenwritingWhat makes a great story and what should be in every writer’s or filmmaker’s toolkitWhether you are a creator, writer, or just curious about the future of storytelling, this conversation is sure to inspire.Connect with Franklin Leonard:Website – The Black ListInstagramX / TwitterSubstackGet the Bookum App: Host or join dynamic online book clubs and connect with fellow readers: https://www.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

Have you ever wondered what was going through the mind of the most powerful man in the ancient world? In this episode of Bookum Author Talks, we sit down with Dr. Aaron Poochigian, Classics scholar, poet, and translator, to talk about his brand new translation of Marcus Aurelius' Meditations.What makes this conversation so special is that Dr. Poochigian brings both the precision of a scholar and the sensitivity of a poet to a text that has moved readers for nearly 2,000 years. We talk about why Marcus Aurelius wrote in Greek instead of Latin, whether the Meditations were ever meant to be read by anyone else, and what his morning practices can teach us about living a better life today.Whether you're a longtime lover of Stoic philosophy, just getting started with Marcus Aurelius, or simply curious about what it takes to translate one of history's greatest books — this episode has something for you.Here's some of what we cover in this episode:• Why Marcus Aurelius wrote his private journals in Greek instead of Latin• How the Meditations were preserved through centuries of history• Whether the Meditations were ever meant to be read by others• What Marcus Aurelius brought to Stoic philosophy• The virtues he wrestled with most as Emperor• How Dr. Poochigian's approach differs from Gregory Hays' beloved translation• What the Meditations can teach us about changing our daily habits• And so much moreIf the Meditations have ever made you stop and think, this episode will make you see them in a whole new light.📖 Get a copy of Dr. Aaron Poochigian's new translation of the Meditations:https://www.amazon.com/Meditations-Marcus-Aurelius/dp/132409639X📱 Download the Bookum App for more great author conversations:https://www.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

Traci Thomas of The Stacks joins us to share her 2026 book predictions, must-read authors, and the books everyone will be talking about next year.We kick things off with pop culture highlights Grammys, Oscars, Kendrick Lamar, Justin Bieber, and the rise of video podcasting before diving into our literary forecast. Traci shares her picks for breakout authors, literary comebacks, classic revivals, and the most anticipated books of 2026.Whether you’re a dedicated reader, a book club member, or just curious about the future of publishing and culture, this episode is your guide to what’s next in books and reading for 2026.Books & Authors Mentioned:Canon by Paige LewisKin by Tayari JonesVigil by George SaundersThe Count of Monte CristoWuthering HeightsThe OdysseyFear and Fury by Heather Ann ThompsonPool House by Mary HK ChoiLondon Falling by Patrick Radden Keefe …plus many more!Join the conversation and download the Bookum app to track your reading, share notes, and connect with fellow book lovers: https://www.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

In 1949, Jackie Robinson, baseball's barrier-breaking hero, was asked to testify before the House Un-American Activities Committee against Paul Robeson, one of the most famous Black men in the world. They never met. They never shook hands. But America placed them in opposition to each other during the Second Red Scare.Award-winning  journalist and author Howard Bryant joins us to discuss his powerful new book "Kings and Pawns: Jackie Robinson and Paul Robeson in America." This conversation explores one of the most overlooked chapters in Black history the 1945-1953 era when the Cold War and the fight for civil rights collided.Bryant reveals how Paul Robeson, an All-American football player, Columbia Law graduate, internationally acclaimed singer, actor, and civil rights activist was systematically erased from American history. His passport was revoked, his income destroyed, and the Black establishment turned against him.At the center of this story is Jackie Robinson, thrust into becoming a political spokesperson simply because he was great at baseball. Branch Rickey used Robinson to publicly denounce Robeson, a testimony Robinson would later regret. By the end of his life, Robinson said he could no longer stand for the flag.In this episode:Who was Paul Robeson and why was he erased from history?The 1949 HUAC testimony that pitted Jackie Robinson against Paul RobesonHow the FBI, Second Red Scare, and Cold War destroyed Robeson's careerWhy the NAACP, Thurgood Marshall, and Black leadership abandoned RobesonBranch Rickey's role in manipulating Jackie RobinsonW.E.B. Du Bois's unwavering support of Paul RobesonThe Peekskill riots and passport revocationParallels between 1949 and 2026Jackie Robinson's political evolution and regretsHoward Bryant's research and writing processGet the book: "Kings and Pawns: Jackie Robinson and Paul Robeson in America" by Howard Bryant https://www.harpercollins.com/products/kings-and-pawns-howard-bryantFollow Howard Bryant: Website: https://howardbryantbooks.com/ Instagram: @howardbryantbooks Facebook: Howard Bryant OfficialDownload the Bookum App: https://www.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

From the NFL to Coaching Student-Athletes | Oregon Ducks & Atlanta Falcons’ Drew Jay DavisWhat happens after the NFL?Former Oregon Ducks standout and Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Drew Jay Davis joins Creators Talk Podcast to break down life after football, the discipline behind elite performance, and how he’s now coaching, speaking, and creating with purpose.In this episode, Drew shares:How reading reshaped his mindset during and after his NFL careerThe surprising overlap between athletics and podcastingWhat actually makes a great coach and a coachable playerHow to build community instead of chasing attentionWhy solo podcasting is one of the hardest (and most rewarding) formatsThis conversation is for athletes navigating transition, creators building with intention, and leaders focused on long-term growth.Episode HighlightsNational Championship & Super Bowl predictionsLife as a student-athlete and staying ready in the NFLGetting into content creation and podcastingThe philosophy behind Too Good to Be DrewCoaching the next generation on and off the fieldRapid-fire book recommendations and book-world hot takesBooks MentionedThe Power of Habit — Charles Duhigg When Crack Was King — Donovan X. Ramsey Wealthy Speaker 3.0 — Jane Atkinson Game of Edges — Bruce Schoenfeld Referable Speaker — Andrew Davis Connect with Drew Jay DavisWebsite: drewjaydavis.comPodcast: Too Good to Be Drew Instagram: @drewjaydavisJoin the Book CommunityDownload the Bookum App: bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

Amazon Self-Publishing in 2026 with Dave Chesson (Kindlepreneur)In this episode, we sit down with Dave Chesson, founder of Kindlepreneur.com and Publisher Rocket, to break down what authors and writers need to know to succeed with Amazon self-publishing, book marketing, and Amazon KDP heading into 2026.Dave Chesson is one of the most trusted voices in the self-publishing world. Through Kindlepreneur, he has helped hundreds of thousands of authors understand Amazon keywords, book discoverability, category selection, and long-term marketing strategies for independent authors. Publisher Rocket is one of the most widely used tools for Amazon keyword research and category optimization.In this conversation, Dave shares:How Amazon’s algorithm actually works for authorsThe role of keywords, categories, and metadata in selling booksHow AI is changing self-publishing and book marketingTrending genres and categories in self-publishingWhy authors should think about marketing from day oneWriting craft vs strategy and finding the right balanceStarting over with new pen names and avoiding the “overnight success” mythBeyond publishing, Dave also talks about his background as a U.S. Navy veteran, nuclear engineer, entrepreneur, and writer, and how those experiences shaped his approach to building sustainable author careers.Perfect for: Authors, writers, self-publishers, Amazon KDP users, indie authors, and anyone interested in book marketing, publishing trends, and building a long-term writing career.This episode is brought to you by Bookum Bookum is the new and best way to host dynamic online book clubs and build real book communities. Download the app and start your book club today at www.bookumapp.comLike, comment, and subscribe for more conversations with authors, creators, and publishing experts.Timestamps1:03 – Memorial Day 1:37 – Serving in the Navy 3:08 – Entrepreneurship and Indiana Jones 5:23 – Getting your first customers 9:00 – Amazon keyword strategy 10:38 – Converting sales on Amazon 12:04 – Amazon’s algorithm 14:30 – AI and Amazon publishing 18:03 – Strategy vs writing craft 22:10 – Publisher Rocket 25:08 – Trending self-publishing categories 31:10 – Dave on writing 36:00 – Marketing from day one 42:00 – New pen names and starting over 43:28 – The “overnight success” myth 47:30 – More of in the book world 48:00 – Less of in the book worldThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

George Johnson: Building the $75M Afro Sheen Empire & Funding Soul TrainAt 97 years old, George E. Johnson Sr. is a living legend. In this extraordinary conversation, the founder of Johnson Products Company—the first Black-owned business to trade on the American Stock Exchange—shares his remarkable journey from humble beginnings to revolutionizing the beauty industry.Joined by his co-author, award-winning writer Hilary Beard, Mr. Johnson discusses their new memoir "Afro Sheen: How I Revolutionized an Industry with the Golden Rule, from Soul Train to Wall Street."IN THIS EPISODE:How George started Johnson Products Company with just $500Creating Afro Sheen and Ultra Sheen during the natural hair movementHis mentor S.B. Fuller and the principles that guided his successMeeting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Operation BreadbasketThe untold story of how he funded and saved Soul TrainBecoming the first Black-owned company on a major stock exchangeWhy he profit-shared with employees and started his own bankAdvice for young entrepreneurs from a 97-year-old business pioneerHilary Beard on preserving this crucial piece of American historyThis is more than a business story, it's a masterclass in entrepreneurship, perseverance, and living by the Golden Rule.GUEST: George E. Johnson Sr. - Founder, Johnson Products Company | Author, "Afro Sheen" Hilary Beard - Award-winning writer, speaker, and co-authorGET THE BOOK: "Afro Sheen" by George E. Johnson Sr. and Hilary Beard https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/george-e-johnson/afro-sheen/9780316577366/?lens=little-brownDOWNLOAD BOOKUM APP: Join book clubs and discover more conversations with legendary authors https://www.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

In this holiday special of the Bookum Founders Talk Podcast, we sit down with special guest, Co-Founder, and brother, the brilliant Kris Colley II.We talk through Kris Colley’s role at Bookum, how the idea for the platform first came together, and the journey that took Bookum from an idea to a billboard in Times Square. We also reflect on standout moments from 2025, including conversations with Hollywood Producers like Will Packer, the evolution of community features like Nooks, and the podcast episodes and books that defined our year.To close things out, we jump into Bookends, a rapid-fire look at what we’re currently loving across books, film, television, and culture.This episode is a year-end reflection on building in public, honoring the stories that move us, and looking ahead to what’s next for Bookum.Join the Bookum community Download the Bookum app to discover books, join conversations, and connect with readers and creators: https://www.bookumapp.comTimestamps:0:00 – Intro1:23 – Kris’ role at Bookum3:45 – The origins of Bookum6:23 – How we got a Bookum billboard in Times Square14:48 – Standout moments from 202516:46 – Will Packer17:50 – Nooks on Bookum22:12 – Favorite books of the year28:54 – Favorite Bookum podcast of the year29:58 – Bookends (Crave Outs)30:33 – Plur1bus30:53 – Sex in the City31:24 – Billie Joel Documentary33:00 – Mr. ScorseseBookends:• Plur1bus • Sex in the City • Billie Joel Documentary • Weapons • Elway • Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind • Mr. ScorseseThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

Does great art require hubris? In this episode of Creators Talk Podcast, we explore Gothic literature, Frankenstein, and the complex relationship between artists and their creations with Dr. Rebecca Marks, a Cambridge PhD specializing in Gothic literature and art history.Dr. Marks takes us deep into the world of Gothic literature, from Mary Shelley's Frankenstein to the moral questions that define the genre. We discuss whether classics should remain untouchable, who gets to adapt stories by women, and the eternal debate: can we separate the artist from the art?This conversation covers content creation, the role of hubris in making great art, controversial artists, and how Gothic literature teaches us about morality, ambition, and what it means to be a creator in today's world.TIMESTAMPS:0:00 - Introduction1:02 - Frankenstein Interactive Museum in London2:28 - New Frankenstein Movie Review3:03 - Should Classics Be Untouchable?4:12 - Does It Matter Who Adapts Stories by Women?6:21 - Growing Up and Getting Into Gothic Literature7:40 - Getting Into Content Creation9:02 - Short vs Long Form Content Creation10:28 - Relatability in Content Creation12:01 - William Blake and Imagination12:40 - How to Better Understand Gothic Art14:40 - Source Texts for Understanding Literature16:40 - Gothic as Open for Interpretation18:26 - Morality Questions Within Gothic Literature (Frankenstein)21:55 - The Role of the Artist23:12 - Hubris in Art24:02 - Is Hubris Required for Great Art?25:12 - Can You Separate Art From the Artist?26:11 - Kanye West Discussion27:41 - JK Rowling Discussion28:34 - Eric Gill and Controversial Artists29:12 - The Fear of Criticism in Art30:02 - Writing The Culture Dump Blog31:12 - What is a Culture Dumper?31:38 - Perfect Day of Writing33:11 - The Power of Coffee34:00 - Last, Now, Next Books35:45 - How to Annotate Books36:50 - Rapid-Fire Book Questions38:50 - What Would You Like to See More of in the Art World?CONNECT WITH DR. REBECCA MARKS:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/culture_dumper/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theculturedump?_t=ZG-8tdNOaeGNNp&_r=1&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGn7-IrCGaEaxrEE8Fmyivr2zKyniyDBnxRpnh60pUdMzKfynqt8MJSaLcZ2LQ_aem_kZEhAP3Gp6-nFzRb0MSoQwThe Culture Dump Blog: https://culturedump.substack.com/p/a-pre-raphaelite-primer?r=49iulx&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=ig&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnh3yBND8YP3ALgU_eYZZb6tHh64g25ROGU1R0Es0j9VIuxtBIZR5N0S-GQLM_aem_wqCrIEV2Ss9CNOI1hNvBgA&triedRedirect=trueBooks:The Magic Mountain by Thomas Mann (A Recent Read)Death in Venice by Thomas Mann (A Short Story)Zofloya by Charlotte Dacre (A Gothic More People Should Read)Art & Artists:Lady Diana Beauclerk - Illustrations to LeonoraJoseph Wright of DerbyWilliam BlakeMedia:Death Note (Manga)The Legend of ZeldaLearn more at: https://www.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

Legendary restaurateur Drew Nieporent sits down to discuss his incredible 40+ year career in the restaurant industry, from opening the iconic Nobu with Robert De Niro and Nobu Matsuhisa to building Tribeca Grill, Montrachet, and over 40 other restaurants. Drew shares lessons on leadership, navigating celebrity partnerships, surviving 9/11 and COVID, and what it really takes to succeed in the restaurant business.Make sure to like, comment, and subscribe to our Youtube Channel!TIMESTAMPS:1:12 - Muhammad Ali3:03 - On Being Difficult4:28 - On Being A Leader5:56 - The Dynamic of the front and back of a restaurant9:08 - Growing up in Restaurants11:20 - Working on Cruise Ship Restaurants15:04 - The Job of a Restaurateur18:20 - Opening First Restaurant: Montrachet19:47 - Getting 3 Stars22:25 - Restaurant Reviews in 202527:22 - The Art of Naming Restaurants31:21 - Opening Nobu33:23 - Doing Business with Robert De Niro34:01 - Nelson Mandela & Celebrities at Tribeca Grill35:12 - When to say No to starting a Restaurant38:15 - Opening Restaurants Abroad39:53 - Nobu Opening in London41:48 - Selecting Wines for your Restaurants42:21 - Opening Crush Wine Store45:40 - Navigating 9/11 and COVID48:21 - Selling Burgers at Madison Square Garden49:33 - Writing the book51:02 - Rapid-Fire Food Questions57:27 - What Should be in a Restaurateur's toolkit?📖 Get Drew's new book "I'm Not Trying to Be Difficult: Stories from the Restaurant Trenches"https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/drew-nieporent/im-not-trying-to-be-difficult/9781668651896/?lens=grand-central-publishing📚 Start or join Book Clubs on Bookum Apphttps://www.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

Welcome to the Bookum Author Talks Podcast!In this episode, we sit down with culinary historian and James Beard Award winner Adrian Miller to explore the REAL history of soul food. We dive deep into Thanksgiving history and traditions, black food traditions, the soul food canon, and cooking through history. Adrian breaks down everything from cooking Thanksgiving dinner and the best soul food dishes to collard greens recipes and old world cooking techniques.Discover the truth about soul food and how it's not slave food. Learn about mac and cheese history, the origins of chitlins, okra, hibiscus, neckbones, and how Caribbean food traditions connect to soul food culture. We also explore black and Asian chefs in the White House, the history of American BBQ, and the fascinating crossover between Asian cuisine and soul food.Whether you're looking for collard greens recipes, want to understand black food traditions, or curious about cooking through history, this conversation has it all!TIMESTAMPS:1:12 - Thanksgiving + Soul Food Items2:50 - History of Chitlins5:10 - Starting Career in Culinary Writing6:07 - Mac n Cheese History in Soul Food and Thanksgiving8:14 - Soul Food Canon9:43 - Preparing Collard Greens12:01 - History of Hibiscus13:21 - History of Okra13:50 - History of Neckbones14:52 - History of Gumbo15:34 - Jamaican & Caribbean Foods18:12 - Soul Food is NOT Slave Food20:50 - Veganism in Soul Food23:50 - Black Eye Peas on Stove for Holiday25:45 - Black Chefs in the White House29:02 - History of American BBQ32:12 - Best BBQ City in America32:45 - Asian Chefs in the White House34:02 - Asian Cuisine & Soul Food Crossovers36:12 - Documenting Family Recipes Histories39:12 - Writing Process of A Cookbook42:24 - Writing Food Reviews45:01 - Rapid Fire Food Questions46:42 - What Should Be in a Foodies Toolkit?📚 ADRIAN MILLER'S BOOKS:"Soul Food: The Surprising Story of an American Cuisine, One Plate at a Time" (2013) https://www.amazon.com/Soul-Food-Surprising-American-Cuisine/dp/1469607352"The President's Kitchen Cabinet: The Story of the African Americans Who Have Fed Our First Families, from the Washingtons to the Obamas" (2017)https://www.amazon.com/Presidents-Kitchen-Cabinet-African-Americans/dp/1469630494"Black Smoke: African Americans and the United States of Barbecue" (2021)https://www.amazon.com/Black-Smoke-African-Americans-United/dp/1469663406"Cooking to the President's Taste: Asian Heritage Chefs in White House History" (2025) - Co-authored with Deborah Changhttps://shop.whitehousehistory.org/products/cooking-to-the-presidents-tasteAdrian Miller Social Media:Website - https://adrianemiller.com/Twitter - https://x.com/soulfoodscholarInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/soulfoodscholar/Make sure to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more author conversations!Make sure to download our Book club and Book networking app Bookum at https://www.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

My guest today on the Bookum Author Talks Podcast is the generational powerhouse Cheryl McKissack Daniel. Cheryl is the President and CEO of McKissack & McKissack, a design and construction company founded by Moses McKissack in 1905. It is the oldest Black-owned architecture and construction company in the United States.In this episode, Cheryl shares the incredible story of her family’s legacy spanning 5 generations, their impact on HBCU campuses, succession plans, major stadium projects, and lessons on leadership, entrepreneurship, and preserving family history.This episode is full of history and business lessons!Get Cheryl’s book: The Black Family Who Built America - https://www.simonandschuster.com/book...Timestamps:1:30 - Current Projects of McKissack & McKissack3:18 - Family History of The McKissack5:42 - Passing down family mottos7:02 - Handling Succession in the Family11:40 - Growing up in an affluent Black Family14:10 - Building on HBCU campuses16:38 - Working with Black Business18:18 - Charlamagne tha God publishing the book19:33 - Writing Process of the Book20:10 - Building Stadiums22:55 - Barclay Center in Brooklyn24:12 - Being a role model as a Black woman builder26:37 - Record Your Family's History27:12 - What Should Be in A Builder's Toolkit?Make sure Like, comment, and subscribe to our ‪@bookum‬  YouTube channel for more amazing conversations with authors and creators.Download the Bookum App to join book-related discussions, connect with the community, and start your own book club at https://www.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

In this episode of Creators Talk Podcast, we sit down with  @classicallyclare Juilliard-trained pianist, book content creator, and host of Study Hall Book Club We discuss her journey from Singapore to New York (Back to Singapore), the power of collective reading, how to engage with classic books (The Tempest by William Shakespeare), and the connection between music, storytelling, content creation, and social media.Make sure to like and subscribe to our youtube channel  @bookum  Timestamps:1:12 – Reading in Singapore2:23 – New York Reading Culture3:12 – Playing Music as a Kid4:01 – Music and Content Creation5:33 – The Connection Between Playing Music and Storytelling6:44 – Defining Classic8:33 – Getting Back Into Content Creation10:12 – Relationship with Social Media11:29 – Collective Learning12:01 – Nuance and Critical Thinking12:52 – Tools for Content Creation13:21 – On Reviews15:44 – Making Classic Literature Relatable18:04 – On Community19:02 – Book Club: Study Hall21:12 – Shakespeare's Tempest24:02 – Prospero: Hero or Villain26:10 – Artist and the Audience26:49 – Exploring Good and Bad27:20 – On Writing: Fermata Blog28:54 – Writing Process & Perfect Day of Writing30:40 – Last, Now, Next Books33:21 – How to Annotate Books35:04 – Rapid Fire Book Questions36:40 – What Would You Like to See More of in the Book World?36:48 – What Would You Like to See Less of in the Book World?Places to Find more from Clare: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classicallyclare/?hl=enBlog - https://clareyeo.substack.com/?Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@classicallyclare?To start your own book club, make sure to download our Bookum App at https://www.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

On this episode of Bookum Author Talks, we sit down with New York Times journalist and bestselling author Ken Belson to unpack how the NFL became a billion dollar empire. We cover stadiums, streaming, anti-trust battles, and social justice. This episode is for anyone who loves the NFL & is interested in the business, cultural impact and economics of football.Timestamps1:03 - The Mets and The World Series1:52 - The Evolution of the NFL4:03 - The Business Structure of the NFL6:18 - Jerry Jones and His Role in the NFL9:21 - Owners Owning Their Stadiums11:40 - Relocations of NFL Teams12:50 - Will We Get New Teams in the NFL15:20 - NFL Anti-Trust17:50 - The Super Bowl19:20 - Colin Kaepernick and Social Justice23:10 - Gambling in the NFL26:02 - Streaming in the NFL29:01 - Writing Process for the BookFollow and Connect with Ken Belson: Twitter: https://x.com/el_belson?lang=enThe New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/by/ken-belsonBookum: https://www.bookumapp.comIf You Enjoyed This EpisodePlease like, subscribe  @bookum   and click the bell to receive updates for future interviews with top creators and authors. Leave a comment below telling us what surprised you most about how the NFL works behind the scenesThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

In this episode of Bookum Author Talks Podcast, we sit down with ESPN Senior Sports Writer Seth Wickersham to discuss his new book "American Kings: A Biography of the Quarterback." We discuss the evolution of the NFL quarterback position, what separates the greatest QBs of all time, and the untold stories that shaped the game.From Joe Montana's uniqueness to Tom Brady's Super Bowl championships, Patrick Mahomes' greatness gene, and the rise of Black quarterbacks in the NFL - Seth breaks down what truly goes on inside the helmet of elite quarterbacks and how the position has revolutionized over decades!TIMESTAMPS:1:01 - Current MVP1:54 - Carson Wentz & Recovery from Injuries2:34 - Daniel Jones & QB Resurgences5:48 - What goes on in the helmet of a QB?9:10 - Joe Flacco still having success10:50 - Evolution of the QB Style13:12 - What Makes QBs Unique? Meeting John Elway14:10 - Joe Montana - Uniqueness15:40 - Joe Namath - The Celebrity QB16:40 - Caleb Williams - The Celebrity QB18:08 - The Rise of Black Quarterbacks19:50 - James "Shack" Harris Story22:45 - Tom Brady & Ring Culture26:03 - Patrick Mahomes Greatness Gene?27:35 - Writing Process for the BookGET THE BOOK:https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/789617/american-kings-by-seth-wickersham/FOLLOW SETH WICKERSHAM:Twitter/X: https://x.com/SethWickershamInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/seth.wickersham/?hl=enJOIN OUR BOOK CLUB APP:Want to discuss more books like this? Download Bookum and host your own book clubs - www.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

Recorded: Jun 13, 2024Our Guest today is the Delightful Danielle Robay Danielle is the Founder of PrettySmart & The Host of the Question Everything Podcast. Pretty Smart is a love letter to women with something to say:Danielle is also a TV Host, Journalist and has chatted with everyone from Taylor Swift to Jada Pinkett Smith.Danielle is a storyteller, a card game creator, a conversational, an avid reader and Questions are her Love Language. This episode of Founders Talk Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Make sure to like, comment and subscribe to our channel!Timestamps: 1:00 - Going After Dreams2:30 - Book Quotes5:30 - Last Book that Made you Cry7:20 - PrettySmart12:12 - Maya Angelou13:10 - Pop Culture & Cerebral Entertainment16:17 - Friend circles17:53 - Roc Nation21:25 - Interviewing Famous People23:25 - Jada Pickett Smith24:50 - Silence and Interview styles26:10 - Not asking questions in Interviews28:20 - Content creation30:40 - Hello Sunshine Collective31:50 - The Bright Side - Daily Podcast 33:05 - Reese Witherspoon34:20 - Last, Now, Next Books35:50 - More/Less in the Book WorldPlaces to Find Danielle Robay: Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Danielle Robay Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/daniellerob...This Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

Tonya Mosley | Bookum Creators Talk Podcast ‪@bookum‬ @nprfJoin us on the Bookum Creators Talk Podcast with Tonya Mosley, Emmy award-winning journalist and co-host of NPR’s Fresh Air ‪@thisisfreshair‬  celebrating its 50th anniversary this month and one of public radio’s most popular programs.Tonya is also the founder of TMI Productions and host of the Truth Be Told Podcast, an advice show exploring race, Black stories, and how to grow and thrive in America. TMI also produced the limited series She Has A Name, a deeply personal family mystery.Timestamps:1:20 - Favorite stories in 20253:24 - Favorite TV Shows & Movies5:07 - Growing up in Detroit6:28 - Mitch Albom's Impact on Tonya9:38 - Storytelling in Detroit12:02 - How to tell journalistic/investigative stories14:32 - Styles of journalism17:02 - Starting a production company18:40 - The power of storytelling20:21 - She Has A Name23:12 - Connection to her sister Anita24:02 - On loss, grief, and shame28:01 - Interviewing authors and people29:45 - On recording NPR Fresh Air32:12 - Legacy brand of Fresh Air35:12 - Changing media landscape38:23 - Federal cutting of public radio budgets39:45 - The state of media literacy43:40 - Are podcasters journalists?46:32 - Reporting on race49:06 - How narratives catch fire50:33 - Last, Now, Next books52:32 - What would you like to see less of in the media world?Books Mentioned:The Blacker the Berry by Wallace ThurmanMakes Me Want to Holler by Nathan McCallNickelboys by Colson WhiteheadZeal by Morgan JerkinsAll the Way to the River by Elizabeth GilbertTwice by Mitch AlbomStartlement: New and Selected Poems by Ada LimónToni MorrisonTV/Film Recommendations:Dying for SexNickelboysHoop DreamsWhere to Find Tonya: Instagram: This Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

In this episode of the Founders Talk Podcast, we sit down with Jennifer Baker, seasoned publishing professional and host of the Minorities in Publishing Podcast, to reflect on 10 years of podcasting and the evolution of diversity in the publishing industry. Jennifer shares her insights on how the publishing world has changed, discusses what meaningful mentorship looks like, and dives into the challenges facing book production today.Topics Covered:Diversity in Publishing: Then vs. NowThe Role of Production in Book PublishingNavigating the Marketing of Traditional BooksTips for Breaking into the Publishing IndustryThe Importance of Mentorship and Community in PublishingThoughts on Book Challenges and BanningTune in to hear Jennifer’s candid thoughts on the future of publishing and what she hopes to see more (and less) of in the industry.Timestamps: 1:33 – Whole Foods & Cheese 3:14 – Celebrating 10 Years of Podcasting 7:45 – Diversity in Publishing in 2014 vs. Now 10:14 – Role of Production in Publishing 12:02 – More Diversity in Publishing 14:04 – Marketing Books 18:45 – Getting into Publishing as a Worker 24:23 – New York Times Article on Lisa Lucas 28:58 – Meaningful Mentorship in Publishing 36:10 – Do Books Get Lost When Acquisition Editor Positions Get Cut? 42:55 – Book Challenges and Banning 49:10 – Writing and Understanding Publishing 52:00 – What Does the Future Hold for Publishing?Don’t miss this insightful conversation with Jennifer Baker—perfect for writers, publishing professionals, and anyone passionate about books!Episode Aired Oct 10, 2024#publishinglife   #diversityinmedia  #bookworld  #mentorship  #bookproduction #founderstalkpodcast #podcastThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

In this exclusive Bookum Founders Talk Podcast episode, we sit down with Rachelle Gardner, president of Gardner Literary Agency, to reveal the insider secrets that can transform your publishing journey.About Rachelle Gardner:Rachelle Gardner is the president of Gardner Literary Agency and has been a literary agent since 2007. She's negotiated over 300 contracts with more than 20 publishers and worked with over 200 authors to bring their books to publication. With nearly 30 years in publishing (since 1995), Rachelle brings unparalleled insider knowledge to help authors navigate the complex world of traditional publishing.What You Will Learn:- The exact elements of a successful query letter that agents actually want to see- How to process rejection like a pro and when to pivot strategies- Whether your book needs to be finished before querying literary agents- What questions to ask potential literary agents during consultations- How agents are detecting AI-written query letters in 2025- The truth about building an audience before traditional publishing- Real author success stories and what made them different from rejected manuscriptsTimestamps:1:00 - The books that have shaped her life3:03 - Books that got her into being a literary agent4:22 - What is a Literary Agent?5:30 - How to become a literary agent6:20 - How many active clients at any time?7:32 - How long do literary agents work with their author clients?9:54 - The job of the literary agent12:00 - Negotiation Film/TV and other rights13:43 - Should an author also have a lawyer before traditional publishing?15:20 - What does a successful query letter look like?19:10 - How should an author process a rejection of their query letter?22:01 - When should an author shift to another book or self-publish?26:03 - Does your book need to be finished to submit a query letter?27:14 - Detecting AI query letters and AI in Publishing29:00 - Should successful self-published authors try traditional publishing?31:48 - Should authors build an audience before seeking traditional publishing?32:24 - What questions should an author ask a literary agent?35:45 - Author success stories39:13 - What happens after the literary agent gets a deal for the author?43:12 - Rachelle's coaching program44:48 - Last, Now, Next Books46:01 - Rachelle's Reading Taste46:54 - What Would You Like to See More of in the Book World?47:34 - What Would You Like to See Less of in the Book World?48:23 - Where to find more from RachellePlaces to Connect With Rachelle Gardner:Website: https://rachellegardner.com/Facebok: https://www.facebook.com/gardner.literaryThreads: https://www.threads.com/@rachelle_literary_agentTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gardner_literaryInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelle_literary_agent/About Bookum:Start your own book club and connect with fellow readers! Download the Bookum app at www.bookumapp.com and discover your next favorite book or join a book club!This Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

Award-winning filmmaker Felicia Pride, Co-Executive Producer of Bel-Air and founder of Honey Chile Production Company, joins Bookum Founders Talk to discuss why Black women over 40 represent television's biggest untapped audience. From her Hollywood breakthrough to launching her own production company, Pride shares the creative risks that transformed her career. Get an inside look at her new romance novella "Come Close" and discover how she's building an independent media empire focused on underrepresented stories.Pride shares her journey from rejected scripts to executive producer, offering valuable advice for writers, creators, and entrepreneurs navigating the entertainment industry. Discover her unique perspective on healthy writer's rooms, optioning books to Hollywood studios, and the creator economy's influence on traditional media.📚 GET FELICIA'S NEW BOOK "COME CLOSE": https://www.amazon.com/Come-Close-Romance-Felicia-Pride-ebook/dp/B0DWMM5VWCJOIN OUR BOOK COMMUNITY: Download the Bookum app - your social book club and networking platform for book lovers! Connect with readers, discover new titles, and build meaningful relationships around books. https://www.bookumapp.comTIMESTAMPS1:20 - Movies to Watch & Art to Consume2:03 - Sinners and The Clipse new album3:18 - What makes a great story?5:14 - Come Close New Novella6:10 - Writing Romance in TV6:42 - New Book (Come Close)7:52 - Writing Process for the book8:40 - Writing for 40+ Black Women10:13 - Speaking directing to a target audience12:47 - Writer's Room14:18 - Healthy v. Unhealth Writer's Rooms15:32 - Process to Option Books to Hollywood17:02 - Shopping Books to Movie Studios18:05 - On Promoting A Book v Movie20:34 - On Community21:25 - Podcast (Honey Chile)23:02 - On Creativity Comeback24:18 - Navigating a writing career25:15 - All that wander aren't lost26:21 - Balancing Being A Multi-Hyphenate28:43 - Life advice "Never too late"29:52 - Age Graceful Advice to 20 and 30 year olds31:59 - Going independent and having ownership33:41 - Creator Economy influence on Hollywood34:23 - Taking creative riskCONNECT WITH FELICIA PRIDEInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/feliciaprideInstagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/itshoneychile/Twitter: https://x.com/feliciapride?lang=enThreads: https://www.threads.com/@feliciaprideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/feliciapride/Website: https://www.feliciapride.com/This Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

On this episode of Bookum Creators Talk Podcast, Professor Timothy Welbeck from Temple University explains why Kendrick Lamar's music has become college curriculum and how hip-hop education is transforming academic discourse. In this comprehensive interview, we explore hip-hop as a scholarly discipline, the cultural impact of Kendrick Lamar, and the current state of rap journalism. From analyzing the Kendrick vs Drake beef to discussing what makes a "classic" hip-hop album, Professor Welbeck breaks down the intersection of hip-hop culture and higher education.🎓 About Professor Timothy Welbeck:Hip-hop scholar and educator at Temple UniversityTeaches courses on Kendrick Lamar and hip-hop cultureAuthor, musician, and cultural criticConnect with Professor Welbeck:🌐 Website: https://www.timothywelbeck.com/timothy🎵 Music: https://www.timothywelbeck.com/musicDownload the Bookum App to start your own book club or join one: www.bookumapp.comTIMESTAMPS1:05 - Current Music to listen to2:33 - How do you define a "Classic" Hiphop Album4:40 - Music that changed his life6:53 - Teaching Hiphop as a College Course9:20 - Hiphop and Black Culture Course11:50 - Books to read to better understand hiphop13:33 - Group v. Independent Listening16:20 - Kendrick Lamar Course19:15 - Preparing for the Kendrick Course20:34 - How the students prepare for the class?22:39 - The Text for the Kendrick Course23:45 - Kendrick being a recluse24:50 - Kobe & Kendrick Lamar Comparisons26:02 - Kendrick Lamar impact on Pop Culture30:02 - Kendrick's Personas33:01 - Protest Music in Hiphop35:58 - Kendrick & Drake Beef38:30 - Drake Lawsuit42:21 - The State of Hiphop Journalism & Media at large46:30 - Engaging with New Music / Avoiding becoming an oldhead49:30 - Timothy's writing process & Music practice52:02 - Timothy's music making process54:20 - Artist navigating current music landscape58:30 - Rapid-Fire Questions1:01:20 - Hiphop Fans Toolkit📚 BOOK RECOMMENDATIONSHip-Hop History & Culture:Can't Stop Won't Stop by Jeff Chang (Hip-hop History Book)Black Noise by Tricia Rose (History of Hip-hop)Prophets of the Hood by Imani PerryThe Tanning of America by Mim Eichler Rivas and Steve StouteCultural Context & Analysis:The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander (Topical Hip-hop Discussions)Racial for Profit (Housing Segregation)Works by Sam AndersonKendrick Lamar Studies:The Butterfly Effect by Marcus J. Moore (Kendrick Lamar)🎵 MUSIC RECOMMENDATIONSContemporary Picks:Odyssey - "In Routine"Little Simz - "Lotus"Clipse - "Let God Sort Em Out"Two Live CrewSoul & Funk Foundations:James Brown - "I Got You"Aretha Franklin - "I've Never Loved a Man"Booker T. & the M.G.'s - "Green Onions"Sade - "Love Deluxe"Marvin Gaye - "What's Going On"Global & Spiritual Influences:Osibisa - "Woyaya"Osibisa - "Osibisa"Mahalia JacksonBebe WinansCeCe WinansYolanda AdamsMississippi Mass ChoirUnderrated Artists to Discover:OdysseyMaya YoussefEssential Albums:To Pimp A Butterfly - Kendrick Lamar (Kendrick's Magnum Opus)Innervisions - Stevie Wonder (Studio Session You Wish You Were In)Songs in the Key of Life - Stevie Wonder (Studio Session You Wish You Were In)This Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

Make sure to like, comment, and subscribe to our channel.My Guest to Today is the Spectacular Stacy Spikes. Stacy is the Author of Black Founder - The Hidden Power of Being an Outsider. Stacy is also the co-founder of MoviePass.  MoviePass is a subscription-based movie ticketing service. Prior to MoviePass, Stacy worked at Motown Universal and was VP of Marketing at Miramax. He has worked with everyone from Eddie Murphy to Stevie Wonder.Timestamp: 1:27 - MoviePass Documentary 3:07 - MovieGoing Experience4:12 - Inspiring Black People in Film/Music 5:59 - Favorite Movies Growing Up7:20 - Blade Runner8:10 - Acting - stereotypical roles10:13 - Clarence Avant14:45 - Soundtracks Vs. LP Albums 16:00 - Spike 17:10 - Film Festivals and Urbanworld20:44 - On Marketing25:00 - Getting early users: MoviePass28:02 - Founders Mindset 29:10 - Founder-Investor Relationships31:05 - Get 117K users in 48hrs 33:33 - Returning to MoviePass35:12 - Seasonality of Movies 37:12 - Writing "Black Founder" Book 40:40 - Movies you want to see on the Screen45:22 - Founder's Toolkit48:40 - Outsider's Toolkit51:00 - Get the BookGet your copy of "Black Founder: The Hidden Power of Being an Outsider by Stacy Spikes today - https://www.amazon.com/Black-Founder-...Download our new book club app at www.bookumapp.comEpisode aired Jul 30, 2024This Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

In this episode of Creators Talk Podcast, we sit down with Mishayla Twyman, founder and creator of Your Local Book Club ATX, to explore how she built a thriving book community of over 1,500 members in Austin, TX.From childhood favorites to her top book club picks, Mishayla shares her book‑picking process, collaboration tips, and the behind‑the‑scenes of community‑building. Discover how she turned her passion into an inclusive, dynamic literary space.Timestamps:0:55 - Childhood Reading2:55 - Austin, Texas Reading Culture4:07 - Starting "Your Local Book Club"6:43 - Early Members of the book club8:30 - Picking the Right Books10:20 - First Big Book Club11:50 - Day-to-Day operations13:14 - On Community15:00 - Book Club + collaborations17:20 - Marketing the Book Club online18:33 - Content Creating for the book club20:44 - The Reading Room23:36 - Genres of the Reading Rooms25:10 - Advice for Hosting Book Clubs26:40 - Chartering the book club28:40 - Last, now, next books30:45 - Great Book Club Picks32:02 - Picking Bad Books33:33 - What Would You Like to See More of in the book world?34:20 - What Would You Like to See Less of in the book world?Follow Mishayla & Your Local Book Club ATX:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourlocalbookclubatx/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yourlocalbookclubatxWebsite: https://www.yourlocalbookclub.org/Books Mentioned in the Conversation:The Midnight Library by Matt Haig (The Book That Got Her Back into Reading)The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein (Childhood Books)Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry (Recent Read Book Club)In Five Years by Rebecca Serle (Last book read outside of book club)The Wedding People by Alison Espach (Current Read Book Club)Verity by Colleen Hoover (Great Book Club Discussion Book)I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jeanette McCurdy (Great Book Club Discussion pick)Atomic Habits by James Clear (Great Self‑Help Books // Discussions)The Mountain Is You by Brianna Wiest (Great Self‑Help Books // Discussions)Loud by Drew Afualo (Book Club Pick)Tomorrow, Tomorrow, & Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin (Underrated Book Club Pick)🚀Make sure  Download our new social book club & networking app at www.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

In this episode of the Author Talks Podcast, we sit down with crime fiction writer Marc Avery to break down how he built suspense, voice, and character in his new thriller Discipline. From writing villains to navigating the publishing process, Marc shares what it takes to write a killer crime thriller set in the heart of Philadelphia. If you're into suspense fiction, crime thrillers, or looking for the best thriller books to read, this one's for you.📚 Timestamps0:58 – Book Tour2:44 – Character Development4:23 – Writing Villains6:39 – Premise of Discipline7:23 – Setting the Book in Philly9:23 – Worldbuilding in a Real City9:45 – Michael Connelly10:40 – Creating Voice12:02 – Character Voices Not Blending13:05 – Setting the Beginning of the Book15:45 – Jogging Time Jumps as a Writer16:50 – Films and Books18:55 – Dream Cast for the Movie20:04 – Navigating the Publishing Process21:46 – Marketing as an Author27:55 – On Community29:29 – Persevering as an Author30:33 – Perfect Day as a Writer31:34 – What He’d Like to See More of in the Book World33:40 – What He’d Like to See Less of in the Book World37:01 – What Should Be in a Writer’s Toolkit📕 Buy Marc Avery’s new crime thriller Discipline:https://www.amazon.com/Discipline-Marc-Avery/dp/1957950722Follow Marc AveryWebsite: https://www.iammarcavery.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iammarcaveryThreads: https://www.threads.net/@iammarcaveryJoin the conversation on BookumBookum is the social book club and book networking app built for readers, authors, and book content creators. Discover your next favorite book and the people who love talk about it!👉 www.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Khaya Fraites the voice behind Violet Sorrengail in the beloved Fourth Wing Dramatized Audiobook series. As a writer, director, and voice actor, Khaya shares her unique perspective on bringing characters to life across multiple creative mediums.In this episode, we dive deep into her journey from theater to voice acting, the preparation that goes into voicing iconic characters like Violet, and how she navigates the business side of the industry. We also explore her work as a filmmaker, her writing process, and how AI is impacting voice actors today.Whether you're a Fourth Wing fan curious about the voice behind Violet or an aspiring creator looking to learn from a multi-talented artist, this conversation offers valuable insights into the creative process.TIMESTAMPS:1:02 Sundance and Films 2:14 Theatre Acting v. Voice 3:22 Favorite books growing up 4:33 Popcorn Reading 5:32 Becoming a Voice Actor 7:12 Preparation for Voice Acting 8:18 Bring Characters to Life 9:43 Preparing your Voice 11:30 How to Direct Voice Actors 12:42 Playing Violet Sorrengail in Empyrean Series14:24 The Pressure of Playing Violet Sorrengail 16:02 Recording Iron Flame and Onyx Storm 16:43 Zodiac Academy 17:24 Recording Time 17:39 Business Side of Voice Acting 18:14 Marketing Yourself as an Actor 20:15 On Community 21:23 Being Underestimated as an Actor 23:10 People Using AI on Her Voice 24:36 Navigating the AI world as a Voice Actor 28:03 Acting Advice 29:42 Making Short Films 33:12 Self-Financing Films 34:34 Writing, Acting & Directing 37:02 Writing Process 39:02 On Potentially Writing A Book 40:12 Last, Now, Next Books 41:45 Rapid Fire Questions 43:38 Favorite Line by Violet Sorrengail 45:36 What would you like to see more of in the book world? 45:49 What would you like to see less of in the book world?CONNECT WITH KHAYA:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/khayafraites/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@khayafraitesWebsite: https://www.khayafraites.com/Twitter/X: https://x.com/khayafraites🔗 CONNECT WITH US:Download Bookum to start your own book club: www.bookumapp.com📚 ABOUT BOOKUM CREATORS TALK:A podcast exploring the creative minds behind your favorite books, content, and stories.#fourthwing  #voiceacting  #bookpodcast  #creativeprocess  #audiobook  #booktokThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

In this powerful episode of the Bookum Author Talk Podcast, we sit down with Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Dr. Marcia Chatelain to explore her groundbreaking book, Franchise: The Golden Arches in Black America. We trace the hidden history of McDonald’s in Black neighborhoods—from post-civil rights era franchising to protests, advertising, health, and economic empowerment.This is not just a story about fast food, it’s about how Black America was both empowered and exploited by one of the most iconic brands in the world.Timestamps1:15 – Sinners & The Great Migration2:55 – Growing up with McDonald's4:13 – Fast Food Habits as Kids5:53 – Black Neighborhoods Before McDonald's7:51 – Sit-ins at McDonald's9:42 – Pine Bluff Protest11:55 – Black Ownership in McDonald's14:10 – Black Restaurateurs16:30 – Franchising vs. Sole Ownership18:02 – Black Capitalism Movement20:00 – Generational Wealth21:30 – McDonald's in Black Communities23:20 – Programs McDonald's Provided24:40 – Relationship with McDonald's26:32 – Byron Allen and McDonald's27:42 – McDonald's and Black Ad Agencies29:07 – Challenges for Black Franchisees30:33 – Decline in Black-Owned McDonald's33:35 – Ray Kroc’s Legacy35:34 – McDonald’s Hidden History36:48 – The Power of the Black Dollar38:20 – Target Boycott40:20 – Black Economics and Target42:02 – Black Celebrity Restaurants45:33 – Historical Clarity for Black Entrepreneurship47:33 – MLK Assassination vs. George Floyd DEI Moments49:44 – Fast Food & Health Issues52:12 – Food Deserts and Grocery Access54:45 – Where Do We Go from Here?56:30 – Writing Process57:23 – Perfect Writing Day59:31 – Book, Podcast, & Doc Recs1:00:56 – Writer’s Toolkit📚 About the Book:Franchise: The Golden Arches in Black America reveals the complex history of McDonald’s and how fast food became a site of both opportunity and inequality in Black communities. It won the 2021 Pulitzer Prize for History and the James Beard Award for Writing.Get your copy of the book - https://www.marciachatelain.com/For more book conversation and to start your own book club, download our new app - www.bookumapp.comOther Resources mentioned in this episode: Supersizing Urban America: How Inner Cities Got Fast Food with Government Help by Chin Jouhttps://press.uchicago.edu/ucp/books/book/chicago/S/bo14193313.htmlDocumentary: The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution (Louis Nelson Jr., 2015)https://www.pbs.org/independentlens/documentaries/the-black-panthers-vanguard-of-the-revolutionRip Curtain – Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/rip-curtainThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

We talk about everything from Hogan’s record-breaking WCW deal to the NWO’s cultural crossover with hip-hop, Monday Night Wars, and Dennis Rodman. If you're a wrestling fan, this is a must-watch.Timestamps:1:15 - Current WWE2:21 - John Cena turning Heel3:35 - Watching Wrestle as a kid5:23 - Hulk Hogan Signing to WCW10:52 - Hulk Hogan & Pop Culture12:02 - Hulk Hogan v. Andre The Giant13:21 - Record Deal for Hulk Hogan17:24 - The Formation of NWO18:02 - Hulk Hogan joins NWO24:22 - Trash throwing Trash in WCW29:10 - Hip-hop's Influence on NWO35:01 - Dennis Rodman Joining the NWO37:34 - NWO growing too large40:14 - Monday Football v. Monday Night Wars42:44 - NWO International Impact on Culture48:12 - Sting (Anti-Hero) v. NWO (Cool)51:17 - DX's Impact on Culture52:44 - How the book came together55:32 - Writing Process for the book57:23 - Getting the interviews for the book57:44 - Meeting Eric Bischoff1:01:03 - Writing the Book as a journalist1:03:50 - Rapid-Fire Wrestling Fan📘 Buy Marc Raimondi’s Book – Say Hello to the Bad Guyshttps://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/734430/say-hello-to-the-bad-guys-by-marc-raimondiPlaces to find more from Marc Raimondi: Twitter/X: https://x.com/marcraimondiInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcraimondisports/?hl=en👇 Download our new social book club + book networking appwww.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

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 to shaping innovative book marketing campaigns, she shares priceless insights for authors and content creators alike.Timestamps:1:02 - Growing Up a Dancer2:46 - Combining Dance and Storytelling4:30 - Marketing Books5:37 - Getting into Reading8:44 - Working at Teen Vogue11:45 - Books are Political13:22 - Children's & YA Book Campaigns14:34 - Shelves and the City18:45 - Diversity at Creators Brand Trips21:03 - Working with creators with small and larger following counts22:23 - ROI on Creator Events26:44 - On Community29:12 - How Should Authors Market Online32:11 - Introverted Authors Tips for Marketing34:45 - Summer in the City Campaign37:12 - Book Content Trends39:44 - Signing with a Literary Agent43:42 - Separating Publishing Brain vs. Creative Brain47:05 - Writing Process & Perfect Day of Writing48:33 - Last, Now, Next Books49:54 - Rapid Fire Book Questions51:04 - What Would You Like to See More of in the Book World?51:26 - What Would You Like to See Less of in the Book World?Places to find more from Sam Fox and other links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sambamfox/?hl=enEpic Reads: https://www.instagram.com/epicreads/?hl=enWilliam Morrow: https://www.instagram.com/williammorrowbooks/?hl=enAvon: https://www.instagram.com/avonbooks/?hl=enThe Book Was Hotter Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBookWasHotter/videos @TheBookWasHotter  Books Mentioned by Sam:Holes by Louis Sachar (A Childhood Favorite)The Giver by Lois Lowry (A Childhood Favorite)Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson (A Childhood Favorite)The Baby-Sitters Club by Ann M. Martin (A Childhood Favorite)The Clique (Series) by Lisi Harrison (A Childhood Favorite)Gossip Girl by Cecily von Ziegesar (A Childhood Favorite)John Green Books (A High School Favorite Author)Animal Farm by George Orwell (High School Literary Canon)To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee (High School Literary Canon)Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace (High School Literary Canon)Marilyn Robinson (College Favorite Author)Joan Didion (College Favorite Author)Virginia Woolf (College Favorite Author)Bright Young Woman by Jessica Knoll (Last Read)Can't Get Enough by Kennedy Ryan (Currently Reading)Take a Hint, Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert (Next Read - Pride Month)Winging It With You by Chip Pons (Next Read - Pride Month)The Message by Ta-Nehisi Coates (A Book Not Enough People Are Talking About)Nothing Burns as Bright as You by Ashley Woodfolk (A Book Sam Gifts Often)Carly Fortune (Author Sam Always Buys)Let Them Stare by Jonathan Van Ness and Julie Murphy (A book We Should Get From the Book Store This Weekend)Sam’s Summer Dance Playlist:So Excited by Janet JacksonIndependent Women Pt. 1 by Destiny’s ChildStronger by Britney SpearsCurrent Favorite TV Shows:ForeverOvercompensatingAdultsDownload our social book club and book networking app Bookum at www.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

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 the Showtime Lakers to Jordan’s shoe deal to the rise of LeBron James. If you’re a fan of NBA history, storytelling, or great biographies, this is one you don’t want to miss.⏱️ Timestamps1:20 - NBA Finals1:37 - Jerry West, Michael Jordan, Kobe and Magic Comparisons5:35 - Family Histories of Magic Johnson, Jerry West, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan12:27 - Telling Magic’s Whole Story18:28 - Magic Johnson’s Positionless Basketball Style20:12 - The Showboat Era of Basketball21:33 - Harlem Globetrotter Influence24:20 - High School Magic Johnson27:30 - What Made Magic, MJ, West and Kobe Great28:45 - Weight Training Back in the Day31:55 - Magic Johnson’s Injury History34:55 - Magic Johnson vs. Larry Bird National Championship37:35 - The NBA Before Magic & Bird42:27 - Magic Johnson & Michael Jordan Rivalry50:08 - Michael Jordan Freeze Out & Charles Tucker52:28 - Michael Jordan Shoe Deal & Sonny Vaccaro57:02 - Magic Johnson HIV Announcement58:20 - LeBron James’ Place in History59:33 - MJ vs. Magic: 1991 NBA Finals1:02:10 - Jerry Krause and the Bulls1:06:20 - Larry Bird & Celtics vs. Magic & Lakers1:12:00 - Jerry Buss & Magic Johnson1:14:23 - Showtime Lakers Legacy1:20:25 - Roland Lazenby’s Writer’s Toolkit📘 Magic: The Life of Earvin "Magic" Johnson https://www.amazon.com/Magic-Life-Earvin-Johnson/dp/1250248035📘 Michael Jordan: The Lifehttps://www.amazon.com/Michael-Jordan-Life-Roland-Lazenby/dp/031619476X📘 Showboat: The Life of Kobe Bryanthttps://www.amazon.com/Showboat-Life-Bryant-Roland-Lazenby/dp/1478940417📘 Jerry West: The Life and Legend of a Basketball Iconhttps://www.amazon.com/Jerry-West-Life-Legend-Basketball/dp/0345510836Follow Roland Lazenby:Twitter (X):  https://x.com/lazenbyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rllazenbyAuthor Page: https://celadonbooks.com/authors/roland-lazenby/Discover more author interviews and book clubs at: https://www.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

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 his latest writing and art projects. From football to philanthropy, from Substack to real estate, this is a masterclass in reinvention.This episode is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Timestamps: 0:00 Intro  1:02 Identity  3:02 Growing up in New Jersey  4:14 On Becoming a Writer  5:40 New Writing Project  8:02 Owning Your Voice  9:55 Draft Day Moment  11:47 Leadership Skills  17:20 Player Coalition & Protesting  18:55 Jalen Hurts  21:55 Malcolm Jenkins Foundation  23:33 What does Impact look like?  25:58 Athletes in Business (Not going broke)  28:57 Winning Super Bowls  31:04 Tom Brady Foreword  31:24 On the Book  33:13 Making an Impact  36:33 Writing Process  38:32 An Art Piece not Enough People Are Talking About  40:32 Last Play of the Super Bowl  41:56 Founder’s Toolkit  42:25 Writer’s Toolkit  Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations with creators, changemakers, and visionaries  @bookum  Places to find Malcolm Jenkins: Substack “Love, Art & War”: https://malcolmjenkins27.substack.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malcolmjenkins/X: https://x.com/MalcolmJenkinsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/malcolmjenkinsnflWebsite: https://malcolmjenkins27.com/📘 Get Your Copy of What Winners Won't Tell You by Malcolm Jenkins: https://whatwinnerswonttellyou.com/This Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

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 when to start marketing, how to overcome shyness, or what publishers actually do (and don’t), this conversation will clarify your next steps.Connect with Stephanie MoonWebsite: https://www.stephmoonco.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephmoonco/?hl=enDownload Bookum — the new social book club and book networking apphttps://www.bookumapp.comTimestamps1:03 – Growing up reading2:04 – Reading to her kid2:46 – Marketing a cookbook3:39 – Getting into book marketing5:45 – Advice on book marketing8:30 – What the book marketing department actually does10:00 – What your publisher is responsible for11:54 – Getting over being shy as an author14:02 – Stephanie’s process for helping authors15:32 – When to start marketing your book16:40 – What success looks like17:34 – What actually drives sales for authors21:54 – Book campaigns that worked24:01 – Guerrilla marketing for books26:40 – Landing podcasts and media31:58 – Finding your voice online34:20 – Building community37:20 – Market as much as possible41:00 – Last, now, next books43:10 – Working with Stephanie44:16 – What she wants to see more of in the book world45:33 – What she wants to see less ofNew episodes weekly for authors, readers, and book creators make sure to subscribe  ⁨@bookum⁩  This Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

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 Games2:02 - Midnight Releases4:02 - Early Reading5:35 - Becoming A Book Reporter7:33 - What is Good Journalism?9:03 - Getting into Book Blogging10:33 - Advice on News Reporting12:33 - Book Trends14:34 - Genre Blending16:40 - How Niche is too Niche18:05 - The Growth of Online Reading21:02 - How to Decide What to Report?22:33 - SEO for Journalism24:34 - Chasing Good Stories as a Journalist25:33 - Feature Articles27:12 - Developing Voice as a Writer28:45 - Perfect Day of Writing and Writing Process30:05 - Reading to Help Writing31:03 - Reading Schedule33:11 - Backlist vs. Frontlist Books34:00 - Balancing Work Reading vs. Fun Reading36:06 - Overcoming Writer’s Block37:54 - Listening to Music While Writing38:49 - Last, Now, and Next Books41:09 - Rapid Fire Book Questions45:50 - What Would You Like to See More of in the Book World?46:25 - What Would You Like to See Less of in the Book World?Places to find more from Clare: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/claremmulroy/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clare-mulroy/USA Today: https://www.usatoday.com/staff/7713150001/clare-mulroy/📚 Books Mentioned:Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros (Midnight Release)Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins (Midnight Release)Intermezzo Sally Rooney (Launch Event)Magic Tree House (Early Books)Rainbow Fairy Books (Early Books)Flotsam by David Wiesner (Early Books)Series of Unfortunate Events (Early Books)1984 (Dystopian Book Trends)I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman (Dystopian Book Trends)Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler (Dystopian Book Trends)My Documents by Kevin Nguyen (A Current Read)My Friends by Fredrik Backman (Upcoming Read)Big Little Lies (Cape Cod Style Books)Wait by Gabriella Burnham (Cape Cod Style Book)Matyr! by Kevah Akbar (A Book You Wish You Could Read for the First Time Again)The Color Purple by Alice Walker (A Book That Changed Your Worldview)The Dream Hotel by Laila Lalami (A Book to Get From the Bookstore This Weekend)This Is a Love Story by Jessica Sulfer (A Book to Get From the Bookstore This Weekend)Stop Me If You've Heard This One by Kristen Arnett (A Book to Get From the Bookstore This Weekend)This Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

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 city for his pro career, and some wild, rarely-heard stories from Bird’s youth. If you’re a basketball fan, a Celtics diehard, or love uncovering sports legends’ early days—this is for you.🎙️ Randy Mills is the author of As If By Magic, a deep dive into Bird’s high school career and Indiana basketball.0:54 – March Madness2:04 – Meaning of the Book Title4:20 – What Clicked for Larry Bird8:20 – Larry Bird’s Coaches12:35 – Mark Bird15:12 – When Did Larry Bird Beat Mark in Basketball?17:12 – Indiana Basketball19:08 – Larry Bird’s Play Style in High School26:55 – Larry Bird’s Defense28:30 – Larry Getting Into Weights30:30 – Dealing With Pressure32:14 – Indiana State – Larry Bird42:50 – How Good Was the Competition in High School?44:55 – Bob Knight & Larry Bird47:20 – Unknown Stories of Larry Bird54:00 – Crazy Stat Lines57:33 – Magic Johnson & Larry Bird1:01:00 – Larry Bird in Boston1:03:40 – Boston vs. Lakers Rivalry1:04:03 – Writing Process1:13:00 – What Should Be in a Writer’s Toolkit?📘 Get the book: https://www.amazon.com/As-If-Magic-Indiana-Basketball/dp/1681572311https://brpressbooks.com/product/as-if-by-magic/Subscribe for more interviews with authors, creators, and cultural legends.This Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

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 about the inner workings of publishing, Megan shares it all.⏱️ Timestamps0:57 – Books That Have Shaped Megan’s Life2:02 – Scholastic Book Fair Nostalgia2:50 – Getting Into Publishing3:06 – Roles in Publishing Explained7:00 – Starting in Book Marketing8:44 – How to Break Into Publishing10:27 – Becoming a Book Content Creator12:24 – Building a Bookish Community14:01 – How Book Collaborations Work15:05 – Book Influencer Programs (Explained!)20:02 – Why Authors Need a Social Presence21:55 – How to Find Your Readers Online23:50 – Current Trends in Book Marketing25:55 – The Evolution of Social Media + Publishing27:23 – Last, Now, Next Book Recs27:56 – 3 Life-Changing Books28:43 – What Makes a Great Story?29:11 – Rapid-Fire Book Q&A32:03 – What She Wants More of in the Book World32:50 – What She Wants Less of in the Book World📚 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more publishing insider convos  @bookum   interviews with authors and content creators, and behind-the-scenes of the book world.Download Bookum to join our Book Club Community, start your own and connect through books at www.bookumapp.com🔔 Follow Megan: https://www.instagram.com/booksnblazers/🎙️ More from us:  @bookum ​This Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

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 burnout, and why originality is key to attracting attention in business. She also goes into the importance of mastering growth and navigating the challenges of building Blavity into a game-changing company.Timestamps:0:01 – Intro1:15 – Dreaming Beyond Boundaries3:08 – Being a Change in the World4:45 – Balancing Intensity and Joy6:35 – Mastering Your Growth8:24 – Avoiding Burnout10:04 – The 6 Pillars of Stability & Freedom13:02 – The Early Days of Blavity15:48 – The Power of Originality17:04 – Thinking in Terms of Data17:50 – Mergers and Acquisitions19:01 – Travel Noire19:55 – Selling a Black Company21:23 – Liquidity Events for Black Companies23:54 – AfroTech25:00 – Black Economic Wealth25:57 – The Wealth Code27:47 – Rich vs. Wealthy28:44 – Shifting to a Wealth Mindset30:33 – Stop Following the Rules32:44 – Fundraising & Rewriting Your Rules33:18 – Risk vs. Stability36:31 – Hiring & Managing a Company38:38 – Writing the Book41:05 – Rapid Fire Questions42:18 – What Should Be in a Founder’s Toolkit?Buy Morgan's book, Rewrite Your Rules: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/738848/rewrite-your-rules-by-morgan-debaun/More from Morgan:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/morgandebaun/Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgandebaun/Blavity - https://blavity.com/About Bookum: Bookum  is a social book club and book networking app for book content creators, authors and readers. Join our community to connect, share, and discuss the books that inspire you: www.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

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 YardGirls TripAbout Last NightThink Like A ManRide Along 1 & 2Will opens up about his career journey, the importance of building your brand, how to make movies on a budget, and what it really takes to succeed in Hollywood. He discusses the mindset behind healthy arrogance, why you need it to succeed, and how to use it to build confidence in any room you walk into. Whether you're an entrepreneur or filmmaker, this interview will help you think bigger and challenge the limits you place on yourself.Timestamps:0:01 - Intro1:26 - Building Your Brand3:20 - "If Poem"5:13 - Ramen Noodle Days10:40 - Making Movies on A Budget12:18 - Time Goals vs. Money Goals16:18 - Think Like A Man Book Adaptation22:10 - On Building A Team25:33 - Meeting his Wife at Essence Fest30:00 - Writing the Book31:02 - Rapid Fire QuestionsGet Will Packer’s Bestselling Book: Who Better Than You?  - https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/735558/who-better-than-you-by-will-packer/Start Your Book Club with the Bookum App: Download here www.bookumapp.com – Our Book of the Month for March is Who Better Than You?This Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

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 time.From his early beginnings in Iowa to shaping the sound of timeless classics like Off the Wall and Higher Love, John shares insights on groove, musical innovation, and the creative process.Timestamps:1:20 - Growing Up in Iowa2:04 - Learning from his Mom3:45 - First Time Playing Drums4:54 - What is Groove?8:30 - The Pocket9:03 - Rock With You & Off The Wall12:33 - Be Spontaneous as a Drummer13:58 - Staying Prepared15:04 - How Do You Know You Have A Hit?16:28 - Rod Temperton's Writing Style18:08 - Working with John Williams21:02 - We Are The World Sessions23:45 - On AI Demos26:00 - The Killer Q Posse27:40 - Being Entrepreneurial29:10 - Touring v. Session31:17 - Steely Dan32:00 - Favorite Places to Tour33:25 - Modern Music35:56 - Genre-Blending37:31 - What is Melody?38:54 - Intros for Songs39:05 - Higher Love41:02 - On Healthy Ego42:24 - Have A Fresh Eyes When Making Music43:55 - Writing the Book47:13 - New Book Publishing Company48:33 - Getting Music Credits49:40 - Stories that Missed the Book52:30 - Top 10 List in the Book53:55 - Rapid-Fire57:03 - What Should Be A Drummer's ToolkitBe sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more exclusive Author Talks and behind-the-scenes interviews with the legends who shaped music.📚 Get your copy of John Robinson’s book King of the Groove - https://www.johnjrrobinson.com/store/p/jr-signature-hat-6xnzaFollow John Robinson on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnjrrobinson1/?hl=enWebsite: https://www.johnjrrobinson.com/Twitter: https://x.com/johnjrrobinson?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5EauthorThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

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 life-changing quotes like "What will you do for free?"Books & Culture: How books influence pop culture, ignite discussions, and shape the future of Black literature.Hip-Hop & Media: His take on Kendrick’s halftime show and the evolving landscape of music journalism.Community, Confidence & Creative Resistance: Building a community for his haters, engaging young readers, and transforming education through literature.Tune in for rapid-fire book recommendations, candid insights on creativity, and a bold vision for a world where books empower and protect culture.Timestamps:1:01 – Early Reading5:20 – Moments That Made Him Come Alive7:40 – Heroes Growing Up10:40 – Dr. Black11:28 – What A Black Man Reading Means14:40 – Creating Different Pages as a Creator15:55 – Books Are Pop Culture17:50 – Kendrick Halftime Show22:25 – Music Journalism25:35 – Telling the Truth About History30:20 – Everything We Are35:00 – Humor in Content Creation37:33 – Engaging with Literature39:44 – Building Community42:33 – Going Viral as a Creator44:33 – Dealing with Trolls46:17 – Encouraging and Teaching the Youth49:33 – Helping Kids Build Confidence as Readers51:55 – Classroom Reading Culture53:36 – Writing Process – Perfect Day of Writing58:40 – Last, Now, Next Books1:02:45 – Rapid Fire Book Questions1:06:22 – What Would You Like to See More of in the Book World?1:07:24 – What Would You Like to See Less of in the Book World?Places to find more from Jerid: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ablackmanreading/?hl=enWebsite - https://ablackmanreading.com/This Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

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.Charlie Hustle: The Rise and Fall of Pete Rose by Keith O'Brien (Sports Book Rec)Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer (Sports Adjunct) Coming Home by Brittany Griner (Sports Book Rec)The Sixth Man: A Memoir" by Andre Iguodala and Carvell Wallace (Sports Book Rec)Another Word for Love by Carvell WallaceThe Score Takes Care of Itself by Bill Walsh (Kyle Pick)The Nickel Boys by Colson WhiteheadConclave by Robert Harris( Book-to-Movie Adaptations - Enjoyed)Erasure by Percival Everett (Book-to-Movie Adaptations - Did not Like)Killers of the Flower Moon (Book-to-Movie Adaptations - Did Not Like)Oppenheimer by J. Robert Oppenheimer (Enjoyed Book-to-Movie Adaptations - Enjoyed)Original Sins by Eve Ewing (Author Most Likely to Breakout in 2025)The Great Black Hope by Rob Franklin (Author Most Likely to Breakout in 2025)One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This by Omar El Akkad (Book with Great Social Commentary)The Color of Trouble by Martha S. Johnson (Author Most Likely to Have a Renaissance in 2025)Black in Blues by Imani PerryKareem Abdul-Jabbar New BookFrankenstein by Mary Shelley (Classic Most Likely to Have A Revival)City Summer, Country Summer by Kiese Laymon (Authors You Are Excited to See Step into a New Genre)Everything Is Tuberculosis by John Green (Authors You Are Excited to See Step into a New Genre)Somadina by Akwaeke Emezi (Authors You Are Excited to See Step into a New Genre)Authority Essays by Andrea Long Chu (Most Anticipated Book of 2025)Connect with Traci Thomas and The Stacks:Website: The Stacks PodcastInstagram: @thestackspodTwitter: @thestackspodTikTok: @thestackspodFor more engaging book discussions and insights, subscribe to The Stacks podcast and join the conversation on social media.This episode is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Please make sure to like, comment and subscribe to our channel.This Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

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 writer looking to navigate the publishing world or just love great storytelling, this conversation is for you!📌 Timestamps:1:03 - Revisiting old creative work3:04 - Finding your creative path4:37 - Navigating the publishing industry8:25 - What is The Black List?9:40 - On Franklin Leonard11:20 - The Black List Fiction14:50 - The traditional route of writing a book18:20 - The Black List’s role in publishing24:20 - How authors are evaluated28:25 - Hybrid vs. Traditional publishing33:01 - Mixing genres in fiction📢 Follow Randy Winston:🔗 Substack - https://substack.com/@randywinston/no...🔗 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_rwinstonsw...🔗 For Writing Feedback - Submit your Writing to The Black List: https://blcklst.com/fiction🔔 Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations on writing, publishing, and storytelling - @bookumappDownload our new Book Club app at www.bookumapp.comThis Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

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 20252:34 - Montgomery Bus Boycott4:03 - MLK Sr.’s Influence on MLK Jr.5:38 - Sweet Auburn Ave. Black Affluent Neighborhood8:02 - MLK’s Mentors & Influences10:25 - Coretta Scott King’s Role12:12 - Building the Organization14:02 - Humanizing Dr. King18:25 - How the Movement Evolved19:50 - What Modern Movements Can Learn from the Civil Rights Movement21:20 - President Kennedy, RFK, LBJ and FBI Surveillance23:20 - The Mental Pressure on MLK26:10 - MLK’s Infidelity & FBI Surveillance27:40 - FBI tapes released on MLK 28:55 - Selma31:20 - Losing the Confidence of Younger Activists33:00 - Religion and Global Impact of King34:30 - "I Have a Dream" Speech & Legacy37:10 - Interview People That Knew MLK Jr.38:55 - The Pressure of Writing the Book42:40 - Where Do We Go From Here? Chaos or Community?📖 About the Book: King: A Life is the first major biography of MLK in decades, offering a deeply human portrayal of the man behind the legend. Get your copy here: https://us.macmillan.com/books/9780374719678/kingalife/🔔 Subscribe for more insightful interviews and discussions:  @bookum  Twitter: @jonathaneig - https://x.com/jonathaneigInstagram: @jonathaneig - https://www.instagram.com/joneig/This Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!

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 insights into the literary world.✨ Highlights from the conversation:1:04 - Favorite books from Childhood4:18 - Becoming a Book Content Creator8:05 - Echo-Chamber of Literary space12:10 - American Dirt Drama 16:55 -  Naviagate being a voice people want hear from on major topics 19:50 - Content Creation Process23:16 - On Writing content 26:16 - Bookish Collaborations28:46 - On Community32:26 - On Algorithm 33:00 - Read Latine Lit36:20 - Latine Authors39:50 - Book Criticism 44:16 - Meeting Oprah 46:20 - Last, Now, Next Books48:50 - Rapid Fire Book Questions53:40 - What would you like to see more of in the book world?54:21 - What would you like to see less of in the book world?📚 Books mentioned in this episode:Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood by Rebecca WellsDefectors: The Rise of the Latino Far Right by Paola RamosHow Not to Drown in a Glass of Water by Angie CruzMagical/Realism by Vanessa Angélica VillarrealThe Safekeep by Yael van der WoudenBlack in Blues by Imani Perry➡️ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations with your favorite bookish creators!This Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs. Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!