In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with author Ariel Sullivan to discuss her powerful debut novel, Conform. Ariel opens up about writing through postpartum depression and the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing how those experiences shaped her characters and themes. The conversation explores female strength, societal pressure, and resilience, as well as the layered storytelling that makes Conform resonate with readers. Ariel also teases an upcoming prequel that expands on the world she’s created, offering fans a deeper look into her evolving literary universe.

What We're Talking About...

• Published under Jenna Bush Hager’s imprint, Thousand Voices, the book highlights powerful storytelling from diverse and authentic voices.
• Inspired by Ariel’s own experiences with postpartum depression and the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, Conform captures the emotional reality of resilience and self-discovery.
• The novel explores complex themes—including choice, love triangles, and societal expectations—through characters who challenge traditional roles.
• Ariel stresses the importance of creating flawed, human characters with both light and shadow, making them deeply relatable to readers.
• The story’s setting and character dynamics mirror real-world social pressures and modern issues surrounding identity and belonging.
• Ariel wrote much of the book in short, chaotic bursts during her children’s nap times, offering a candid look at balancing motherhood and creativity.
• Conform serves as a gateway into the fantasy genre for readers who love grounded, character-driven stories.
• The book’s characters are written to evoke empathy and spark emotional connection, inviting readers to reflect on their own choices and values.
• Ariel also shares details about an upcoming prequel, which will dive deeper into the history and mythology of the world introduced in Conform.

Chapters

00:00 Celebrating a Debut: Ariel Sullivan's Journey

02:59 The Inspiration Behind 'Conform'

06:10 Writing Through Struggles: Postpartum and COVID

08:53 The Creative Process: From Idea to Trilogy

11:57 Character Development: The Complexity of Choices

14:58 Themes of Female Strength and Societal Expectations

18:05 Exploring Relationships: Love Triangles and Family Dynamics

20:54 The Impact of Fantasy on Real-World Issues

23:54 Layered Storytelling: Engaging Readers on Multiple Levels

26:54 Looking Ahead: The Future of Ariel's Writing

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with Ken Miller, author of High Finance, to dive into the complex world of Wall Street, fiction writing, and social responsibility. They explore how Miller weaves together the interconnected lives of his characters while tackling themes of civil rights, free speech, and the moral cost of ambition. Ken also opens up about his transition from a career in finance to fiction, his creative process, and what’s next in his writing journey. This thought-provoking conversation offers listeners an inside look at how personal experience and professional insight can shape powerful storytelling.

What We're Talking About...

• Ken Miller’s novel High Finance delivers a powerful and unique perspective on Wall Street and the people behind it.
• The book’s interconnected characters mirror the real-life complexities of the financial world.
• Fiction writing became Ken’s way of giving back to the literary community and exploring deeper human truths.
• Racism and social responsibility are central themes that Ken addresses with honesty and passion.
• Ken’s friendship with Alan Alda underscores the value of empathy and human connection.
• The culture of Wall Street often prioritizes short-term gains over long-term consequences—a key moral tension in the story.
• Characters wrestle with ethical dilemmas tied to ambition, success, and personal integrity.
• The shoeshine man represents the overlooked voices that keep the financial system running.
• Ken’s future projects promise to explore more complex social and political themes.
• Through his work with PEN America, Ken champions free speech and the importance of storytelling in protecting democracy.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ken Miller and High Finance

04:14 The Inspiration Behind Writing Fiction

07:22 Exploring Truth in Fiction

10:06 Ken's Philanthropic Efforts and Community Involvement

13:02 The Culture of Wall Street

16:18 Character Development and Themes in High Finance

19:15 The Role of Supporting Characters

22:08 The Cost of Financial Dreams

25:07 Ken's Future Projects and Reflections on Writing

28:06 Conclusion and Where to Find High Finance

28:44 Empowerment and Importance of Individual Contributions

28:45 Understanding High Finance and Its Accessibility

Links Mentioned

Ken Miller's Website: https://www.kenmillerbooks.com/

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac dives into 107 Days by Kamala Harris. Glogovac explores the behind-the-scenes challenges of Harris’s campaign, the impact of media misrepresentation, and the unwavering support from her political allies. Through her review, Glogovac highlights the importance of separating fact from fiction and recognizing Harris’s leadership and resilience during one of the most turbulent periods in American politics.

What We're Talking About...

• Kamala Harris had just 107 days to campaign following President Biden’s withdrawal, showcasing her ability to lead under intense pressure.
• The book reveals how media misrepresentation distorted Harris’s comments and shaped public perception.
• 107 Days offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the campaign trail and the realities of running for national office.
• Harris’s journey highlights the unique challenges faced by women of color in politics and the strength required to overcome them.
• The book reinforces Harris’s lifelong commitment to being “for the people” and serving with integrity.
• Michelle Glogovac discusses her disappointment in the portrayal of Dr. Jill Biden, raising questions about narrative fairness.
• Harris’s grace, resilience, and leadership define her role during one of the most turbulent political moments in modern history.
• 107 Days stands as a powerful piece of political history that every reader should explore.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to '107 Days' and Kamala Harris

02:51 The Challenges of a 107-Day Campaign

06:06 Media Misrepresentation and Public Perception

08:59 Support from Political Allies

11:56 Reflections on Leadership and Legacy