In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with author Andromeda Romano-Lax to discuss her novel What Boys Learn. The conversation explores the cultural forces shaping boys today, the influence of motherhood, and how societal expectations impact masculinity and identity. Andromeda also shares insights into her writing process, her work as a book coach, and her transition between genres. Together, they examine the power of fiction and storytelling to illuminate contemporary social issues and spark meaningful conversations.

What We're Talking About...

• Andromeda Romano-Lax is the author of seven books spanning multiple genres, including literary fiction, historical fiction, and thrillers.
• What Boys Learn examines the cultural and social forces shaping boys and young men today.
• The novel explores the influential role of mothers in their sons’ emotional development and identity formation.
• Andromeda’s writing process is deeply rooted in reflection on contemporary societal issues.
• Empathy is central to her approach to storytelling and character development.
• Her transition from historical fiction to thrillers was influenced by her pandemic-era reading habits.
• Andromeda works as a book coach, mentoring writers from diverse backgrounds and genres.
• Fiction can act as a release valve for societal tensions and unspoken anxieties.
• The impact of social media on young men and masculinity is a major concern discussed in the episode.
• Andromeda aims to write across multiple genres, using different storytelling forms to explore complex ideas.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Andromeda Romano-Lax

01:06 Exploring Themes in What Boys Learn

06:00 Cultural Influences and Social Media's Role

10:59 Character Dynamics and Story Development

16:51 Genre Exploration and Writing Process

21:08 Coaching Writers and the Importance of Stories

24:53 Reflections on Current Events and Literature's Role

Links Mentioned

Andromeda Roman-Lax's Instagram: @‌romanolax

Order your copy of What Boys Learn: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/what-boys-learn-andromeda-romano-lax/1147241844

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with author Ashley Winstead to discuss her new novel, The Future Saints. Their conversation dives into themes of grief, healing, and resilience, tracing how the story shifted from a lighthearted rom-com into a profound exploration of loss and recovery. Ashley opens up about her creative process—crafting layered characters, moving between genres, and weaving in the importance of therapy as part of the narrative. They also explore her research into the music world, the emotional resonance she hopes to leave with readers, and a glimpse into what’s next on her writing horizon.

What We're Talking About...

• Ashley Winstead's writing spans multiple genres, including romantic comedies and thrillers.
• The Future Saints explores themes of grief and recovery in a unique way.
• Ashley had to rewrite The Future Saints after experiencing personal loss.
• Character development is crucial for reader engagement and emotional connection.
• The book balances heavy topics with light-hearted moments.
• Therapy plays a significant role in the characters' journeys.
• Ashley aims to evoke strong emotions in her readers through her writing.
• Research into music and band dynamics informed the story's authenticity.
• Ashley is protective of her messy, complicated characters.
• Future projects include a follow-up to The Future Saints and a new thriller.

Chapters

00:00 Celebrating Publication Day

03:12 Exploring Genre Diversity in Writing

07:17 The Journey of 'The Future Saints'

11:07 Crafting Characters and Emotional Depth

16:21 Balancing Heavy Themes with Humor

18:40 The Importance of Therapy in Storytelling

21:42 Character Connections and Reader Emotions

23:38 Researching Music and Band Dynamics

29:40 Future Projects and Reader Engagement

34:32 Introduction to The Future Saints

34:56 Emotional Journey Through the Book

Links Mentioned

The Future Saints by Ashley Winstead

https://bookshop.org/a/99223/9781668024669

Ashley Winstead’s Website

https://www.ashleywinstead.com/

In Episode 25 of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with author, speaker, and leadership strategist Tara Jaye Frank to discuss her powerful book You Are Before the World. Tara opens up about her journey through motherhood, career evolution, and personal growth, exploring what it means to reclaim self-worth, set boundaries, and release the emotional labor often carried by helpers and caretakers.

The conversation dives into Tara’s writing process, the importance of authentic connection, and how partnership and communication shape both personal relationships and leadership. Tara also shares insights into her upcoming documentary film, 92: The Silent Revolt, which examines the collective experience of Black women in the aftermath of the 2016 election and the ongoing fight for visibility, sovereignty, and systemic change.

This episode is a compelling exploration of identity, leadership, and empowerment—encouraging listeners to prioritize themselves, honor their voices, and step fully into their power.

What We're Talking About...

• You Are Before the World reinforces the importance of self-prioritization without guilt.
• True fulfillment comes not from what we do, but from what we place our trust in.
• Helpers and caregivers often carry the emotional burden of others’ expectations and perceptions.
• Cultivating self-worth is essential for mental health, leadership, and overall well-being.
• Writing and creative expression can be powerful tools for personal growth and transformation.
• Healthy partnerships are necessary to create balance in relationships, careers, and family life.
• Open and honest communication is critical for navigating challenges together.
• Reclaiming personal sovereignty is a vital act of self-care and boundary-setting.
• The documentary 92: The Silent Revolt explores the collective experience of Black women after the 2016 election.
• Burnout is harmful and must be acknowledged and addressed at both individual and community levels.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

05:51 Lessons from Maya Angelou

09:47 The Journey of Self-Discovery

13:53 Navigating Motherhood and Expectations

18:41 The Importance of Partnership

23:02 The Title and Theme of the Book

26:55 The 92 Project Film Discussion

31:31 The Power of Trust and Authenticity

32:01 Celebrating Black Women's Stories and Experiences

Links Mentioned

Tara Jaye Frank's website: http://www.tarajayefrank.com/books

The 92 Project: https://www.ikoni.org/92-project