

SHE WELL READ
Alana Baumann and Samra Michael
For well read baddies who love books, pop culture, and everything in between. Best friends Lana and Sam are figuring out how to fit reading into their busy lives—and they know they’re not alone. That’s why they created a book club on the go: a seasonal podcast with bite-sized episodes where listeners vote on what they read each season. Whether you read all the time, once in a while, or are just picking up your first book in years, this show celebrates all types of readers. Being well-read is more than just books—it’s a way of life.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 3, 2025 • 1h 12min
No Ordinary Love with Kristina Forest
Hey well read baddies! Welcome to another #Black365 minisode. Today, we sit down with Kristina Forest, the bestselling author of The Neighbor Favor, The Partner Plot, and her newest release, The Love Lyric—the final book in the Greene Sisters series. Kristina shares insights into writing heartfelt romance, balancing escapism with realistic storytelling, and how BookTok has transformed the publishing industry. She also opens up about the friendships that inspired the Greene Sisters series (shoutout to a Threads follower for this great question!). And of course, we couldn’t wrap this episode without discussing Beyoncé’s mysterious pending announcement at the time of recording… and today’s update? It’s a tour! 👑🚀Don’t miss this fun and insightful chat! 🎧 Listen now and let us know: Which Kristina Forest book is your fave? Drop us a message on IG, Threads, or Bookum Book Club!01:50 Introduction and Shout Out Corner13:00 Coffee Break38:34 Get into the GuestFollow Kristina and her work- https://www.kristinaforest.com/Books mentioned and recs- https://bookshop.org/shop/shewellreadWe can’t wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellreadFollow SHE WELL READ!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/shewellreadMore links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 2, 2024 • 47min
Our 2024 Wrapped
Hey, Well Read Baddies! In this final episode of the year, we reflect on the ups, downs, and lessons learned in 2024. From creative burnout and mood reading struggles to finding inspiration in unexpected places, we talking about it all! We also dive into the joy of embracing reading at your own pace (hello, big fans of DNFing!) and why life’s transitions are all about moving forward—even if it means taking a step back first.04:21 Introduction and Shout Out Corner07:17 Coffee Break27:34 Our 2024 Wrapped!We can’t wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellreadFollow SHE WELL READ!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/shewellreadMore links including discount codes, virtual book club, merch, etc: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 18, 2024 • 1h 9min
The Cost of Authenticity with Chidinma Azubuike
Hey well read baddies! Welcome to another bi-weekly minisode. Today we are joined by Chidinma (Chid) Azubuike, the incredible host of the But What Do I Know? podcast, for a lively conversation about wellness, authenticity, and the challenges of creating meaningful spaces as Black women in podcasting. Together, we explore the evolution of celebrity culture, how influencers have blurred the line between fame and accessibility, and the role of parasocial relationships in today’s world. Chid also shares her journey as a podcaster, her passion for affirming Black women, and the lessons she’s learned while navigating life in her 20s and 30s. Tune in for insights, laughs, and all the inspiration you didn’t know you needed! 🎧✨01:34 Introduction and Shout Out Corner04:39 Coffee Break44:04 Get into the GuestFollow Chid and her work- https://www.bwdikpodcast.com/podcastWe can’t wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellreadFollow SHE WELL READ!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/shewellreadMore links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 4, 2024 • 1h
A Soft B*tch in Love with Kiara Blanchette
Hey well read baddies! Welcome to another bi-weekly minisode. Today we are joined by the amazing author of Venus in Pisces and content creator Kiara Blanchette. Together, we explore the raw journey of love, self-discovery, and the courage to be vulnerable in a world that often asks us to hide our feelings. 00:38 Introduction and Shout Out Corner05:14 Coffee Break21:01 Get into the GuestFollow Kiara and her work- https://www.kiarablanchette.com/We can’t wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellreadFollow SHE WELL READ!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/shewellreadMore links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 21, 2024 • 53min
Dating, Intimacy, and Situationships (storytime!)
Hey well read baddies! This week we're switching it up with an episode swap with our friends over at Behind the Silk Podcast!We are spilling the hot tea today! In today's episode, we are talking about sexual intimacy, communication, and expectations. More importantly we are talking about situationships. We have on my good friend Shakia Artson who is having her own storytime with a recent situationship that really exposed both partners toxicity and communication breakdowns. We are answering the questions we all want to know:
Should you have sex on the first date?
What kinds of intimacy are there besides sexual?
How we need to start communicating better with our partners
How to date in the modern age
How to handle situationships
How to date with intention, but without expectations
Episode 38: Self Worth and Toxic Relationships with ShakiaCheck Out Shakia Episode Part 2: Controlling Our EmotionsTo connect with Shakia Artson:Kickin It ProductionsPlay To Win PodcastBeing, A Memoir@sisterswithstories Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 7, 2024 • 56min
Baby, It's Deja Brew with Celestine Martin
Hey well read baddies! In this special spooky season episode, we’re joined by author Celestine Martin, the creator of the cozy paranormal romance Deja Brew. Together, we dive into the magical world of BIPOC witches, slow-burn romance, and all the witchy vibes perfect for fall. Celestine shares her journey as an author, the inspiration behind her Elemental Love series, and how she infuses themes of family, love, and Black joy into her work. Plus, we explore the rise of "witchy" TikTok, the power of vision boards, and the ups and downs of navigating social media as a writer. Whether you're seeking a cozy fall read or looking to get into the spooky spirit, this episode is packed with magic, fun, and inspiration. Don’t forget to subscribe and check out Deja Brew—a perfect addition to your fall TBR!01:08 Introduction and Shout Out Corner03:07 Coffee Break31:51 Get into the GuestMentions in Episode:Books- https://bookshop.org/lists/black365??new-list-page=trueCelestine's Patreon- https://www.patreon.com/CelestineMartinRegister to Vote- https://www.vote.org/We can’t wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellreadFollow SHE WELL READ!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/shewellreadBookum Book Club- https://app.bookumapp.com/clubs/668ad565858c97a7faafafb1More links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 18, 2024 • 1h 12min
S5 EP15: Consumption Core with Author Gail Hamilton Azodo
Hey well read baddies! On today's episode, we wrap season 5 with the author of Black Girl IRL, Gail Hamilton Azodo! Gail shares her journey of writing the book and we ask her all of our burning questions. We dive into topics like navigating motherhood, writing with authenticity, and the upcoming Nightbitch movie adaptation. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow She Well Read on social media for more updates!01:48 Introduction and Shout Out Corner05:25 Coffee Break31:54 Get into the ChapterMentions in episode-Nightbitch- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=918prRymA-UMormon Wives- https://press.hulu.com/shows/the-secret-lives-of-mormon-wives/Child Star Documentary- https://www.forbes.com/sites/maryroeloffs/2024/08/14/child-star-documentary-to-feature-jojo-siwa-drew-barrymore-demi-lovato-what-we-know/Boy Band Documentary- https://www.netflix.com/title/81476403Books- https://bookshop.org/a/1057/9781538741498https://bookshop.org/a/1057/9780593422946Register to Vote- https://www.vote.org/We can’t wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellreadFollow SHE WELL READ!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/shewellreadBookum Book Club- https://app.bookumapp.com/clubs/668ad565858c97a7faafafb1More links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 4, 2024 • 50min
S5 EP 14: Silk Cap Mafia
Hey well read baddies! On today's episode, we discuss the last truth #12 of Black Girl IRL, Your Authentic Self is in a Silk Cap. Our conversation dives into the importance of showing up authentically and being vulnerable, especially as Black women navigating our truths. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow She Well Read on social media for more updates!01:57 Introduction and Shout Out Corner04:02 Coffee Break33:34 Get into the ChapterMentions in episode-Trademark Drama- https://www.npr.org/2024/08/28/nx-s1-5090081/very-demure-very-mindful-jools-lebron-trademark Alix Earle- https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/story/2024-08-28/alix-earle-tiktok-racist-slur-apologyRegister to Vote- https://www.vote.org/We can’t wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellreadFollow SHE WELL READ!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/shewellreadBookum Book Club- https://app.bookumapp.com/clubs/668ad565858c97a7faafafb1More links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 28, 2024 • 51min
S5 EP 13: We Gon Be Alright
Hey well read baddies! On today's episode, we discuss truth #11 of Black Girl IRL, It's Gon Be Alright. We explore the realities of navigating negativity and overcoming obstacles while highlighting the importance of taking time for rest and reflection amidst the hustle and grind culture. We discuss how Black women often carry the weight of expectations, yet still manage to thrive, and emphasize the need for trusting the process and embracing change. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow She Well Read on social media for more updates!02:04 Introduction and Shout Out Corner09:22 Coffee Break29:42 Get into the ChapterMentions in episode-Back to School Book Drive- https://bookshop.org/wishlists/591d3e0e0f4e3ae64d36a0064250a96036e4463eTrump Controversy- https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/trump-draws-fire-remarks-medal-honor-recipients/story?id=112883414Black Romance Book Festival- https://blackromancebookfest.com/Books we're reading- https://bookshop.org/lists/read-with-us-d4d66b8e-1462-4dc1-9a07-f836bb14f1b2?Colleen Hoover Drama- https://www.cnn.com/style/article/colleen-hoover-coloring-book-cancellation-intl-scli/index.htmlRegister to Vote- https://www.vote.org/Representative Jasmine Crockett Speech- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tis8gzBlT7sWe can’t wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellreadFollow SHE WELL READ!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/shewellreadBookum Book Club- https://app.bookumapp.com/clubs/668ad565858c97a7faafafb1More links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 21, 2024 • 53min
S5 EP 12: Demure Girl Fall
Hey well read baddies! On today's episode, we discuss truth #10 of Black Girl IRL, Our Relationship with Money is Petty. We dive deep into the often-taboo topic of money, exploring the importance of financial transparency in friendships and the Black community. We share personal stories about navigating freelance life, setting realistic financial goals, and the challenges of sticking to a budget—especially with the holiday season just around the corner. From holiday shopping hacks to honest conversations about debt, this episode is packed with practical tips and relatable moments. Plus, we introduce a new segment on how we're getting back into reading! Tune in for real talk, lots of laughs, and, as always, a bit of fun—very mindful, very demure01:48 Introduction and Shout Out Corner06:08 Coffee Break21:11 Get into the ChapterMentions in episode-Back to School Book Drive- https://bookshop.org/wishlists/591d3e0e0f4e3ae64d36a0064250a96036e4463eArticle- https://professionallycurious.substack.com/p/nothing-brands-warholian-ism-and?r=21ajf8&utm_medium=ios&triedRedirect=trueRegister to Vote- https://www.vote.org/We can’t wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellreadFollow SHE WELL READ!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/shewellreadBookum Book Club- https://app.bookumapp.com/clubs/668ad565858c97a7faafafb1More links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices


