Hello Rebel Readers,

Today’s Rebel Reads Podcast is an extra-special release in honor of World Diabetes Day 2025, a day dedicated to awareness, education, and the power of community.

This year’s theme, “Diabetes Across Life Stages,” reminds us that diabetes affects every chapter of life. Today, we’re opening up real conversations about resilience, support, and the emotional realities of navigating Type 1 diabetes, especially how it shapes our relationships and the connections we build.

Our guest is the incredible Leigh Jack, indie romantic-suspense author of The Hearts Series, The Next Chapter and Newest release You're a Mean One, Mr. Green. Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes later in life, Leigh shares a deeply personal look at her diagnosis, how it changed her world, and why meaningful representation matters. She also opens up about weaving Type 1 diabetes into her main character’s journey — bringing visibility and authenticity to the page for readers who need it most.

Leigh is a reading teacher from New Jersey, a mom to two energetic kids, and a dog mom to two fluffy pups. A true storyteller, she finds magic in everything from children’s books to Chick Lit and turns life’s beautiful chaos into stories that stay with you. Over the past year, Leigh and Cheryl have grown a genuine friendship off-mic, two East Coast book lovers already dreaming up an in-person event together.

This heartfelt episode is all about community, representation, and the courage it takes to share your story.

You’ll laugh, you’ll feel, and you’ll walk away inspired.

Tune in today for a powerful World Diabetes Day conversation you won’t want to miss.