In this wide-ranging conversation, Mick and David dive into their personal reading habits as men, as book-lovers, and as supporters of great independent publishing. They explore their current reads—from Austrian history and Michigan ghost ships to literary fiction and classics like The Little Prince—discussing how reading can serve as both intellectual pursuit and spiritual practice.

They examine the stereotype that "men don't read" (spoiler: they definitely do), and share their preferences for physical books over screens, not just because it's "sexier" (according to a recent NYT headline), but because it takes us "out of ourselves" in ways that feel deeply meaningful. They also touch on the changing landscape of book publishing through the rise of independent voices on platforms like Substack and Tumblr, answering the challenge of finding thoughtful analysis in our chaotic political moment.

Whether you're looking for reading recommendations, curious about the evolving book industry, or just want to eavesdrop on two literary professionals shooting the sh#t about their favorite escape from daily life, this episode offers plenty of food for thought—and a good reminder that reading is sexier than staring at a phone.

Publishing Disrupted explores how the book world is changing and how writers can adapt to meet new challenges.

Mick Silva is at micksilva.com

David Morris is at DavidRMorris.com

Lake Drive Books is LakeDriveBooks.com

New episodes every other week.