Behind The Stack

Jordy Rosenberg, Night Night Swan

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with Jordy Rosenberg to discuss his latest novel, "Night Night Swan". The talk about writing satire and the value of it, Transphobia, Palestine and growing up with Zionist parents, writing female friendship, lesbian and trans sci fi, and how he ended up narrating the book.

Jordy's website:

https://www.jordy-rosenberg.com/

Jordy's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/jordyrosenberg/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Watch Behind the Stack on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@brettsbookstack

Bookshop.org page:
https://www.bookshop.org/shop/brettsbookstack

Brett's instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/bretts.book.stack

Behind the Stack email:
brettsbookstack@gmail.com

Rachel Hochhauser, Lady Tremaine

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0800

In this epsiode Brett sits down with author Rachel Hochhauser to discuss her debut novel, 'Lady Tremaine'. They talk about the inspiration for the retelling of Cinderella, being a Mother, her approach to writing, updating Happily Ever After, and her company, Piecework.

Rachel's website:

https://rachelhochhauser.com/

Rachel's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/hochhauser/

Piecework Puzzles:

https://pieceworkpuzzles.com/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=8557565999&gbraid=0AAAAAClnu0SkIvC1TP0qP31EaWMZL4tlQ&gclid=CjwKCAiAh5XNBhAAEiwA_Bu8FeyDHPpj9J_EGYt80wfJqHgbcDbEoruU-ZtgRwd4m1rY0ibG28_1bRoC2VMQAvD_BwE

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Christopher Castellani, Last Seen

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0800

In this episode Brett sits down with Christopher Castellani to talk about his new book, 'Last Seen'. They discuss the origins for this mystery that is tinged with magical realism, the magnet and draw of youth, writing flawed characters, faith, anxiety, and the magical connection between author and reader.

Christopher's website:

https://christophercastellani.com/

Christopher's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/cdcastellani/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Grant Ginder, So Old, So Young

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode Brett sits down with author Grant Ginder to discuss his new book, 'So Old, So Young'. They talk about the challenge of this particular book, moving from politics to prose, a Sondheim musical, the brat pack and The Big Chill, how small decisions accumulate into a life, the intensity of college friendships, and how he's personally handling being so old, so young.

Grant's website:

https://www.grantginder.com/

Grant's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/grantginder/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Patmeena Sabit, Good People

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode Brett sits down with author Patmeena Sabit to discuss her debut novel, 'Good People'. They talk about her path from reader to writer, the unique narrative style of the book, growing up as a young woman in the Afghani community, and the expectations that community and family place on the shoulders of women.

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Ashley Winstead, The Future Saints

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode Brett sits down with author Ashley Winstead to discuss her new book, 'The Future Saints'. They talk about the book's surprising origin, her connection to music and the music industry, what she would want to be if not a writer, music documentaries, and the raw creation of music vs writing.

Ashley's website:

https://www.ashleywinstead.com/

Ashley's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/stories/ashleywinsteadbooks/

The Future Saints Playlist:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2p9jAqTrQucrizB3Rflw78?si=bxjvZ96ESo2ffLO8H-wl_w

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Jennifer Niven, Meet The Newmans

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode Brett sits down with Jennifer Niven to discuss her book, 'Meet the Newmans'. They talk about antiquated grade school classes, her mother and how she was inspirational for the character of Dinah, working in a male dominated profession, the musicians who inspired key characters in the book, and why she made the decision to set the story in the time period she did.

Jennifer's website:

https://www.jenniferniven.com/

Jennifer's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/jenniferniven/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Rosie Storey, Dandelion Is Dead

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0800

In the season three premiere Brett sits down with author Rosie Storey to discuss her debut novel, "Dandelion is Dead". They talk about growing up on a farm and later when she began to write. Trying to understand the 'cataclysm of death', the yin and yang of the central sisters, writing men vs women, and her eclectic taste in music.

Rosie's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/rosiestorey/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

4th Quarter Favs with Renee from Itsbooktalk

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0800

Brett is joined once agin with Renee from itsbooktalk where they discuss their fourth quarter favs as well as giving up one book each they know will be on their best of the year lists.

Books discussed:

-Running Man by Charlie Engle

-Life & Death & Giants by Ron Rindo

-Grace & Henry's Holiday Movie Marathon by Matthew Norman

-The Director by Daniel Kehlmann

-Just Mercy by Brian Stevenson

-Baldwin: A Love Story by Nicolas Boggs

-The Bird Hotel by Joyce Maynard

-Minor Black Figures by Brandon Taylor

Some Bright Nowhere by Anne Packer

Renee's substack

https://substack.com/@itsbooktalk

Renee's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/itsbooktalk/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Justinian Huang, Lucky Seed

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode Brett sits down with author Justinian Huang to talk about his new book, Lucky Seed.They discuss his travel life, his hero growing up, writing Asian LA, Hungry Ghost, why a twist needs to be earned, Chinese Palace Dramas and Jackie Collins.

Justinian's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/justinianhuang/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Quiara Alegria Hudes, The White Hot

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode Brett sits down with Quiara Alegria Hudes to discuss her fiction debut, 'The White Hot'. They discuss childhood imagination and when writing started for her. Why Daphne Rubin Vega was the best choice for the audio recording, Siddhartha and story book archetypes, Jagged Little Pill, and the differences between being a novelist vs a playright.

Quiara's website:
https://www.quiara.com/

Quiara's instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/quiaraalegria/

The White Hot playlist:
https://open.spotify.com/show/21rEwC8CJyHViJI0fc4Iro?si=vVt_XOgsQSKHbQ5CtsLMLQ

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Lance Garland, Out There

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode Brett sits down with Lance Garland to discuss his new memoir, 'Out There'. They talk about growing up gay in an ultra conservative home, the Navy SEALS and the physical demands of both that and being a firefighter, why firefighting as a profession, and embracing risk in ones job and in life.

Lance's website:
https://www.lancegarland.com/

Lance's instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/outtherewithlance/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Brian Schaefer, Town & Country

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode Brett sits down with author Brian Schaefer to discuss his debut novel 'Town & Country'. They delve into his dance history and how that transitioned into writing, what inspired the story, removing outside political influences while writing about politics, and perhaps a favorite musical or two.

Brian's website:

https://www.brian-schaefer.com/about

Brian's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/itsbrianschaefer/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Catherine Newman, Wreck

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode Brett sits down with author Catherine Newman to discuss her latest book, 'Wreck'. They talk about writing as therapy, kids, empty nesting, growing old, anxiety, long term relationships, and a small casting session on who could play Rocky.

Catherine's website:

https://www.catherinenewmanwriter.com/

Catherine's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/catherinewman/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Max Delsohn, Crawl

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with writer Max Delsohn to talk about his debut collection of short stories, 'Crawl'. They discuss, trans masculine life in Seattle, what dream profession he wished for, a love for music, a dive into Stephen Sondheim, and his stand up past.

Max's website:

https://www.maxdelsohn.com/

Max's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/maxdelsohn/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Ron Rindo: Life, & Death, & Giants

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with author Ron Rindo to talk about his new novel 'Life, & Death, & Giants'. They discuss where the giant idea sprang from, the Amish community, his favorite character in the book, and who was the inspiration for that character, the poetry of Emily Dickinson, and they take a run at which actresses could be right for the character of Hannah.

Ron's website:

https://ronrindo.com/

ron's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/rrindoauthor/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Kirsten Miller, The Women Of Wild Hill

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with Kirsten Miller to discuss her new book, 'The Women of Wild Hill'. They talk about her early work in advertising, the things that are passed on through generations, the collective power of women, what she would choose as her magical ability, and the advice she'd give to young women today.

Kirsten's website:

https://www.kirstenmillerbooks.com

Kirsten's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/kirstenmillerbooks/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

3rd Quarter Favs and Anticipated Fall Titles with Renee from @itsbooktalk

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 23:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett is joined with returning guest Renee from @itsbooktalk to discuss some of our favs from quarter three, as well as discuss some titles we're excited about in the final quarter of the year! This episode is avail at the link in my bio or from your podcast platform of choice!
‌
Renee’s substack:
https://substack.com/@itsbooktalk?utm_source=global-search
‌

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Sam Sussman, Boy From the North Country

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with author Sam Sussman to talk about his debut novel, 'Boy From the North Country'. They discuss audio books and narrating his own story, fiction vs non fiction and the way we view both, transforming life experiences into art, and discovering your parent even after their death.

Sam's website:

https://www.samevansussman.org/

Sam's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/sam__sussman/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Alejandro Varela, Middle Spoon

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with author Alejandro Varela for his book, 'Middle Spoon'. They discuss polyamory, the universality of heartbreak, humor that comes from anxiety, unnamed narrators, playing with biases, and a singer who will be your father figure.

Alejandro's website:

https://alejandrovarela.work/

Alejandro's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/drovarela/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Joanne Harris, Vianne

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with author Joanne Harris to discuss her latest book, Vianne. They talk about her decision to return the world of Chocolat, her writing shed, the ritual and communion around mealtime and food, and creating art for joy.

Joanne's website:

https://www.joanne-harris.co.uk/

Joanne's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/joannechocolat/

Joanne's bluesky:

https://bsky.app/profile/joannechocolat.bsky.social

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Patrick Ryan, Buckeye

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with Patrick Ryan to discuss his novel Buckeye. They talk about writing character vs plot, the road to publishing this book, the hardest character to write, and find a common bond over similar childhood book lists.

Patrick's website:

https://patrickryanbooks.com/

Patrick's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/patrickryannyc/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Summer Bonus Episode: Leigh Dunlap, Bless Your Heart

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 15:00:00 -0700

In this summer bonus episode Brett sits down with author Leigh Dunlap to discuss her debut thriller, "Bless Your Heart". They talk about her move from Hollywood assistant, to screenwriter, to now author, the three unforgettable scripts she read before they were movies, the Atlanta Buckhead Betties, kids game culture, and which Betty was the only one she had an actress in mind.

Leigh's website:

https://leighdunlapwrites.com/

Leigh's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/dunlapwrites/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Summer Bonus Episode: Joe Pan, Florida Palms

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this bonus episode Brett sits down with author Joe Pan to discuss his debut novel, "Florida Palms". They talk about the Florida of the novel, and what real life events precipitated his needing to leave it, his process of leading with character before plot, a confession to his father that led to a surprising response, and the discovery of a genre of animation that will certainly change your google algorithm.

Joe's website:

https://joepan.com/

Joe's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/joepanwrites/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Summer Bonus Episode: 2nd Quarter Favs with Renee from ItsBookTalk

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this Summer bonus episode Brett is joined with returning guest Renee from @itsbooktalk to discuss some of our favs from quarter two, and we only had one cross over! This episode is avail at the link in my bio or from your podcast platform of choice!

Renee's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/itsbooktalk/

Renee's substack:

https://substack.com/@itsbooktalk?utm_source=global-search

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Honorée Fanonne Jeffers, Misbehaving At The Crossroads

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with Honorée Fanonne Jeffers to discuss her new book, "Misbehaving At The Crossroads". They talk selling a book, University teaching, Obama and 45, the challenge and vulnerability of writing memoir, Mamas, and Fathers, and being a survivor.

Honorée's instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/honoree_jeffers/

Honorée's website:
https://honoreejeffers.com

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Chris Chibnall, Death At The White Hart

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with writer/producer Chris Chibnall to discuss his debut mystery, 'Death At The White Hart'. They talk around the story, avoiding spoilers, dive into his career as a successful producer on such shows as Dr Who and Broadchurch, and find a mutual admiration for the same bestselling author.

Chris' instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/chrischibnall/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Jess Walter, So Far Gone

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 22:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with author Jess Walter to discuss his new book, "So Far Gone". They talk about which character he's written he relates to the most, the backdrop of Spokane Washington, and the eternal battle we all currently face.

Jess Walter's website:

https://www.jesswalter.com

Jess Walter's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/jesswalterbooks/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Rob Franklin, Great Black Hope

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with Rob Franklin to discuss his debut novel, "Great Black Hope". They talk about the intersection of race, class and queerness, Black respectability politics, blending fact and fiction to create a vibrant New York City, and his non for profit initiative Art for Black Lives .

Rob's website:

https://www.robert-michael-franklin.com

Rob's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/robfrank__/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

V.E. Schwab, Bury Our Bones In The Midnight Soil

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with author V.E. Schwab to discuss her latest book, Bury Our Bones In The Midnight Soil. They talk about when heroes disappoint, tackling multiple projects at once, generosity to fans, and paying homage to Anne Rice and her world of vampires.

V.E.'s website:

https://www.veschwab.com/

V.E.'s instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/veschwab/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Jonathan Park-Ramage, It's Not The End Of The World

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with author Jonathan Parks-Ramage for his novel, "It's Not The End of he World". They discuss the incident that inspired this, children in the story and in life, and the central question he asked himself while writing the book.

Jonathan's website:
https://www.jonathan-p-r.com

Jonathan's instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/jprampage/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Lucas Shaeffer, The Slip

Thu, 29 May 2025 21:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with Lucas Shaeffer to discuss his debut novel,'The Slip'. They talk about the wide range of characters inhabiting the story's boxing gym, the town of Austin, the many facets of identity, and a possible fascination with clowns.

Lucas Shaeffer's website:

https://www.lucasschaefer.com

Lucas' instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/lucaseschaefer/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Nicola Dinan, Disappoint Me

Tue, 27 May 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with Nicola Dinan to talk about her sophomore book, "Disappoint Me". They discuss identity and assimilation, what good fiction can do, food writing, and a serendipitous episode of "The White Lotus".

Nicola's instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/nicoladinan/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Summer Book Vibes With Bernie Lombardi & Christopher Metts

Tue, 20 May 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett is joined again by bookstagram favs Bernie Lombardi & Christopher Metts to discuss books that play with the idea of summer whether as a vibe, an escape, or something you just might not be able to put down.

Christopher's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/christophermetts/

Bernie's Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/bernie.lombardi/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Jemimah Wei, The Original Daughter

Tue, 13 May 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with Jemimah Wei to talk about her debut book, "The Original Daughter". They discuss the competitive Singapore educational system, the currency of self in social media, and the importance of telling your own stories.

Jemimah's website:

https://jemmawei.com/

Jemimah's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/jemmawei/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Milo Todd, The Lilac People

Tue, 06 May 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with Milo Todd to talk about his debut book, "The Lilac People". They discuss Berlin in the 30s before the ascension of Hitler, The Institute for Sexual Science, Hitler's enemy number one, and the explanation of what was known as a transvestite card.

Milo's website:

https://www.milotodd.com

Milo's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/todd_milo/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Virginia Evans, The Correspondent

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with Virginia Evans to talk about her new book, "The Correspondent". They discuss a trip that changed her life, the gift of correspondence, and the absolute perfect actress to play Sybil.

Virginia's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/virginia.l.evans/

Virginia's website:

https://www.virginiaevansauthor.com/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Jo Harkin, The Pretender

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with author Jo Harkin for her novel, "The Pretender". They discuss her jump from speculative to historical fiction, bawdiness in the Tutor age, and the books that inspired her while writing this.

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Sarah Damoff, The Bright Years

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with author Sarah Damoff for her debut novel, "The Bright Years" The discuss her work as a social worker, her unique path to publishing the book, the challenge of loving someone with an addiction, and finding grace in our children and the generosity of childhood.

Sarah's instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/sarahdamoff/

Sarah's website:

https://www.sarahdamoff.com

the cover art artist:

https://www.instagram.com/youngparkartist/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Denne Michele Norris, When The Harvest Comes

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with Denne Michele Norris to discuss her debut novel, "When The Harvest Comes". They discuss introverts vs extroverts, finding freedom within the form of writing, fathers and their queer children, and the perfect actor to cast for a key role in the book.

Denne's Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thedennemichele/

Denne's website:

https://www.dennemichele.com/

food 4 Thot:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/food-4-thot/id1200684765

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Seán Hewitt, Open Heaven

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with writer Seán Hewitt to talk about his debut fiction novel, "Open Heaven". They discuss the power of longing, the rite of passage of first crushes, and examine the relationship between gay and straight men.

Seán's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/seanehewitt/

Seáns website:
https://www.seanehewitt.com/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Ray Nayler, Where the Axe Is Buried

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with writer Ray Nayler for his new book, "Where The Axe is Buried". They discuss what fiction does well, the success in getting a book to engage you and parallels with current events, and what helps him stay hopeful when the world can feel pessimistic.

Ray's website:

https://www.raynayler.net/

Ray's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/raynayler/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Bonus EP! First Quarter Favs with Renee from ItsBookTalk

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this bonus episode Brett sits down with returning guest, Renee from ItsBookTalk where we discuss some of our first quarter favs as well as revisit books we spoke about at the beginning of the year we were looking forward to.

Renee's instagram:https://www.instagram.com/itsbookstalk

Renee's substack: https://itsbooktalk.substack.com

Other accounts mentioned:

Katie @: https://https://www.instagram.com/stories/basicbsguide/

Sarah @: https://fictionmatters.substack.com/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Paul Rudnick, What Is Wrong With You?

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with author Paul Rudnick to discuss his new book, "What Is Wrong With You?" They talk about the fun of writing a wide variety of characters, tech bros and technology, as well as the best junk food for the sweet tooth in your life.

Paul's website:

https://paulrudnick.com/about-paul-rudnick/

Paul's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/paulrudnick/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Kristen Arnett, Stop Me If You've Heard This One

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with author Kristen Arnett to discuss her new book, "Stop Me If You've Heard This One". They talk about clowns of course, the great state of Florida, but also following a non traditional writing path that can still be as equally if not more rewarding than a traditional route.

Kristen's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/kristen__arnett/

Kristen's substack:

https://kristenarnett.substack.com/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Syed M Masood, The Last Man In Paradise

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with author Syed M. Masood to discuss his new book, The Last Man In Paradise. They talk about religious conservatism in current times, blending comedy and tragedy in writing, and take a nostalgic walk through sitcoms.

Syed's website:

https://www.syed-masood.com/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Emily St. James, Woodworking

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with Emily St. James to discuss her debut novel 'Woodworking' They talk about the title of the book and its relevance today, growing up in rural South Dakota, trans people in history, and why a sequel won't happen but what it could be.

Emily's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/emilystjams/

https://www.assignedmedia.org/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Charlotte McConaghy, Wild Dark Shore

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode Brett sits down with Charlotte McConaghy to discuss her new book, 'Wild Dark Shore'. They talk about the island that inspired the fictional one from the novel, the way she visualizes her characters, the far reaching effects of climate change, and what it all affects beyond us.

Charlotte's website:

https://www.charlottemcconaghy.com/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Macquarie_Island

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Allison Epstein, Fagin The Thief

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode Brett sits down with Allison Epstein to discuss her new book, Fagin The Thief. They talk about the reimagining of literary characters, her inspiration for taking on Fagin, and agree on a pretty awful song from the musical Oliver.

Allison's website:

https://allisonepstein.com/

Allison's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/rapscallison/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Alejandro Heredia, Loca

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0800

This week Brett sits down with author Alejandro Heredia to discuss his debut novel, 'Loca'. They talk about immigration, the book that made him a reader, creating characters not defined by race, gender or sexuality, and the importance of finding 'your people'.

Alejandro Heredia is a writer from the Bronx. He has received fellowships from LAMBDA Literary, Dominican Studies Institute, UNLV’s Black Mountain Institute, and elsewhere. He received an MFA in fiction from Hunter College. Loca is his debut novel.

Alejandro's website:

https://www.aleheredia.com/

Alejandro's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/stories/aleherex/

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Olivia Wolfgang-Smith, Mutual Interest

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode Brett sits down with Olivia Wolfgang-Smith to discuss her new novel, "Mutual Interest" which is an Indie Next Pick for February. We talk about the books third person narrative, gender roles, found families, capitalism, and finding queer joy in historical fiction.

Olivia's instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/owolfgangsmith/

Olivia's website:

http://wolfgangsmith.squarespace.com

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Kristin Koval, Penitence

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode Brett sits down with Kristin Koval to discuss her debut novel, “Penitence” which is the Barnes and Noble Discover pick for February.
She talks about her former career as a lawyer, her path to becoming a writer, empathy for characters, and the journey from tragedy to forgiveness.

Kristin's website:
https://kristinkoval.com/

Kristin's instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/kristinkovalwriter

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Cynthia Weiner, A Gorgeous Excitement

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode Brett sits down with Cynthia Weiner to discuss her debut novel, A Gorgeous Excitement. They talk about New York in the eighties, the shocking inspiration behind the book, and we learn if Cynthia is more an optimist or pessimist.

Cynthia's Website:
www.cynthiaweiner.com

Cynthia's instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/cynthiaweiner

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Tom Lamont, Going Home

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode Brett sits down with writer Tom Lamont to discuss his debut novel, "Going Home". They talk about the all consuming challenges of raising kids, writing as a novelist vs journalist, fathers, faith and being Jewish.

Tom Lamont Website:
http://tomlamontjournalist.com/

Tom Lamont instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/tom_lamont_journalist/?hl=en

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2025 Book Preview With Renee from ItsBookTalk

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0800

On this first ep of the new year Brett is joined once again by Renee of ItsBookTalk to discuss ten books we're looking forward to in the upcoming year. Join us for a wide range of choices that promise to make 2025 another fantastic year in publishing.

Renee substack:
https://substack.com/@itsbooktalk

Renee instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/itsbooktalk/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Favorite Books of 2024

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0800

In this final episode of season one, Brett discusses his favorite books out of the 145 he read this year. All books discussed can be found on his bookshop.org page listed below.

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2024 Runner Ups with Tina from TBR, etc.

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode Brett sits down with Tina of TBR, etc to discuss five of our runner up choices for Best Books of 2024. Between us we cover a variety of genres from thrillers, to literary fiction, and a non fiction book we both think is fantastic!

Tina's instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/tbretc/

Tina's YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@tbretc

Tina's podcast:
https://www.booktalketc.com/

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Christopher Bollen, "Havoc"

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode Brett talks with Christopher Bollen about his latest book, "Havoc". They discuss age vs youth, finding a characters voice, and the joys of Venetian glassware.

Christopher Bollen instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/christbollen/

Christopher Bollen website:
https://www.christopherbollen.com

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Six Recs For Non Fiction November

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0800

As nonfiction November comes to a close, Brett picks six nonfiction titles from his stack this year that were particularly excellent that you can add to yours! As always all the books are avail on my bookshop.org page listed below.

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Frank DeCaro, "Disco"

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode Brett sits down with Frank DeCaro to discuss his new book,
"Disco: Music, Movies and Mania Under The Mirror Ball" They talk about Studio 54, the disco backlash, and the search for the missing Donna Summer interview.

Frank DeCaro instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/frankdecaroshow/

Frank DeCaro X:

https://www.x.com/frankdecaroshow

Frank DeCaro Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/frankdecaroshow

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Ben Masters, "The Flitting"

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode Brett sits down with author Ben Masters to discuss his new memoir about losing his father but finding his fathers love for butterflies in the process. We talk dads, kids, discovering our parents and the love of a good Luther Vandross song.

Ben Masters Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/benmasters_86

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Susan Rieger, "Like Mother, Like Mother"

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with writer Susan Rieger to discuss her latest book, "Like Mother, Like Mother". They talk about family secrets, generations of women, the blessing and the curse of genetics, and a crafty convo about felt art.

Susan Rieger instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/susanriegerwriter/

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Jean Hanff Korelitz, "The Sequel"

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with writer Jean Hanff Korelitz to discuss her latest book, "The Sequel". They talk about crafting a follow up to a successful thriller, finding success later in your career, adaptions, as well as her pop up book group, BookTheWriter.

https://www.jeanhanffkorelitz.com

http://www.bookthewriter.com

https://www.instagram.com/jeanhanff/

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Mysteries & Thrillers With Renee from ItsBookTalk

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett chats with Renee from ItsBookTalk about a treasure trove of mystery and thrillers titles. From series to stand alones there is probably something for everyone here who likes their whodunnits, and the perfect selection for Spooky season!

Renee's Substack:
https://itsbooktalk.substack.com/?utm_source=global-search

Renee's instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/itsbooktalk/

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Luis Jaramillo, "The Witches of El Paso"

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with author Luis Jaramillo to discuss, 'The Witches of El Paso'. They talk about the role El Paso plays, the tradition of passing down stories through family, and how magic entered his narrative.

Luis website: https://www.luisjaramillo.com

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A Fall Book Compendium with Sarah Hildreth of FictionMatters

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode I sit down to chat with Sarah Hildreth of the FictionMatters Substack, as well as the Novel Parings podcast. We discuss how she started her bookish journey, her own personal tastes, and what goes into curating her sought after and comprehensive Fall Fiction Reading Guide.

The FictionMatters substack:
https://fictionmatters.substack.com

Novel Pairings Podcast:
https://novelpairings.com

Sarah’s instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/fictionmatters

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Abdi Nazemian, "Desert Echoes"

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 01:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Brett sits down with author Abdi Nazemian to discuss his new book, "Desert Echoes", the importance and power of Y/A books, representation in literature, book bans, and gay music icons.

Abdi Nazemian:
https://www.abdinazemian.com

Support a Classroom:
https://www.donorschoose.org

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Louis Bayard, "The Wildes"

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode Brett sits down with author Louis Bayard to discuss his latest book, 'The Wildes" based on Oscar Wilde and his wife and children. They talk about creating fiction from fact, the research behind the project, and the complicated relationship between Wilde and his wife Constance.

Louis Bayard: https://www.louisbayard.com

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The Booker Episode, with Bernie Lombardi & Christopher Metts

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 01:00:00 -0700

Today I'm joined by bookstagram power couple Bernie Lombardi & Christopher Metts to ‌discuss our thoughts on the thirteen books on the Booker long list, what we think could end up making the short list cut, and some of our personal favorites.
As always, all the books talked about today are avail on my bookshop.org page.

https://thebookerprizes.com

Bernie Lombardi: https://www.instagram.com/bernie.lombardi

Christopher Metts: https://www.instagram.com/chrsitophermetts

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Shannon Bowring, "Where The Forest Meets the River"

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 01:00:00 -0700

Author Shannon Bowing talks small town life, the nuances in a given relationship, and new friends arriving in the town of Dalton Maine.

https://www.shannonlbowring.com

https://www.instagram.com/shannonbowring.writer?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

https://www.oprahdaily.com/entertainment/books/g61917672/new-fall-books-2024/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=mgu_ga_opr_d_bm_comm_org_us_g61917672&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAACWDcWqGv262y-8u2klJWgERcgnRd&gclid=Cj0KCQjw28W2BhC7ARIsAPerrcL9W9iatslQ9sC0g3YLzS0q4UscubzQ98tp1WGhumOQ7eS0k9rmer0aAhDxEALw_wcB

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Behind the Stack Preview

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 16:00:00 -0700

Starting September 3rd, a podcast for book lovers, hosted by Brett Benner aka bretts.book.stack on instagram and youtube.

If you like what you're hearing on this podcast please subscribe so you never miss an episode!