Moms Don’t Have Time to Read Books™️

Zibby is joined for a second time by Laura Hankin, the author of ONE-STAR ROMANCE, a wickedly smart rom-com about a struggling writer who has to walk down the aisle at her best friend’s wedding with the man who gave her book a very public one-star rating—which, by the way, happened to Laura! Laura delves into the novel’s deeper themes of evolving friendships and the challenges of creative pursuits and then talks about the highs and lows of her own career. She and Zibby also discuss anxiety-inducing Goodreads reviews, Laura’s writing journey during pregnancy (and morning sickness), and the viral TikTok video that inspired this novel.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/4cpHpGoShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!

Zibby speaks with New York Times bestselling author Ruth Reichl about THE PARIS A NOVEL, a sumptuous, evocative, mouthwatering adventure through the food, art, and fashion scenes of 1980s Paris as told by Stella, a woman who stumbles across a vintage store, tries on a fabulous Dior dress, and is changed forever. Ruth reveals how her own transformative experience in a couture dress inspired this novel and then delves into the themes of hope, joy, and fairytale-like transformation. Then, she describes her unexpected career in food writing and the evolution of food culture and then shares her best advice for aspiring writers.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3RtNV6SShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!

Social psychologist Jonathan Haidt joins Zibby to discuss THE ANXIOUS GENERATION, a must-read investigation into the collapse of youth mental health in the era of smartphones—and a plan for a healthier, freer childhood. Jonathan attributes increasing rates of anxiety and depression among children, particularly girls, to two main factors: the overprotection of children and the rise of social media. He shares his recommendations, including delaying exposure to smartphones, phone-free schools, and encouraging independent, unstructured play.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3yVEIhmShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!

Zibby speaks with award-winning author Teddy Wayne about THE WINNER, a dark, explosive literary thriller about an unemployed law school graduate who gets a summer job as a tennis pro at an exclusive, old-money community near Cape Cod, and gives lessons (and more…) to a divorced woman twice his age. Teddy delves into the real-life inspirations for the setting, his character development process, and his interest in depicting class and privilege in this story. He also reveals that he is working on the screenplay for a potential film adaptation (!), describes his journey to becoming a writer, and gives his best advice to aspiring writers.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/45b6It5Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!

Journalist Elissa Strauss joins Zibby to discuss her bold, brave, deeply researched, and deeply felt book, WHEN YOU CARE: The Unexpected Magic of Caring for Others. Elissa delves into the profound impact of caregiving on personal growth and the importance of viewing it not as a burden but as an enriching part of life. She also discusses her journey from being a prominent voice in the feminist blogosphere of the 2010s—writing extensively about motherhood and societal issues like the lack of paid leave and affordable childcare—to becoming an author.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3RemeyGShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!

New York Times bestselling author Katherine Center returns to the podcast, this time to discuss her charming new book, THE ROM-COMMERS. The novel follows two screenwriters who co-write a romantic comedy… and fall madly in love with each other. Katherine delves into her writing process, touching on how she builds romantic tension and characters with depth. She also talks about how her happy marriage influences her writing and then reveals what she is working on next!Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3KvpZflShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!

NBC Today show co-anchor Craig Melvin joins Zibby to discuss I’M PROUD OF YOU, a heartfelt and lively picture book for fathers, sons, and the childhood milestones that inspire pride in every parent. Craig reflects on the moments of pride he has experienced as a parent, highlighting the importance of cherishing the small milestones—like when his son conquered his fear of jumping off a diving board. Then, he opens up about his difficult relationship with his own father, who struggled with addiction. He explains how writing his first book, POPS, was a therapeutic journey toward understanding and forgiveness. The episode concludes with the hopeful note that Craig might collaborate with his wife, an artist, on future projects!Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/4aUDDUkShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!

Zibby is joined by NYU oncologist and medical historian Dr. Elizabeth Comen to discuss ALL IN HER HEAD, a groundbreaking and fiercely entertaining narrative of women’s bodies, and a call to action for a new conversation around women’s health. Dr. Comen delves into the egregious treatments women have endured for centuries, the systemic neglect of women’s health issues, and the need for women to ask questions, seek second opinions, and support each other. She also talks about balancing medicine and writing and shares her excitement for her new role at NYU.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/3yLPkPGShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!

Jane L. Rosen returns to the podcast, this time to discuss SEVEN SUMMER WEEKENDS, a charming, heart-tugging romance about a woman who inherits a Fire Island beach house and its revolving door of weekend visitors... and then meets an irritatingly handsome neighbor. Jane delves into her creative process and inspiration, revealing that the big family secret in the story is based on her own family history. She also talks about her love for Fire Island (where she met her husband!), her best advice for aspiring authors, and the books she’s excited to read this summer!Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/4bOmBZ5Share, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!