

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

Jun 12, 2024 • 55min
S5 EP 2: Black Women Are the Blueprint
In this episode, Black women celebrate everyday moments and discuss social media authenticity. They share juicy celebrity drama and reflect on the pressure to present a perfect image online. The hosts also talk about their experiences at a Megan Thee Stallion concert and explore the influence of everyday Black women.

Jun 5, 2024 • 46min
S5 EP 1: She's Just Like Me For Real
Hey well read baddies!!!! We are thrilled to be back with a new season of the podcast! We're excited to introduce our book for Season 5, 'Black Girl IRL: Life Between the Mess and the Magic,' selected by you all in our book vote. In this episode, we talk about our amazing partners for the season, share personal life updates, and discuss our recent reads. We are so pumped to be back and reading with you all! 00:00 Welcome Back to She Well Read!01:31 The Shift to Audio-Only03:22 Season 5 Excitement and New Listeners04:44 Shout Out Corner13:30 Coffee Break: Life Updates and Pop Culture22:04 Favorite Authors and Recent Reads26:30 Balancing Content Creation and Personal Life42:42 Upcoming Season and Book IntroductionWe 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/contactFollow SHE WELL READ!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/shewellreadYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-6-RqriJLTi6G0Munzr1igMore links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 6, 2024 • 1h 6min
Send Noods! with Abbey Crain
Hey well read baddies, welcome to another minisode! Today we are joined by Abbey Crain, a journalist, author, and artist from Birmingham, Alabama, to discuss a range of topics including IVF, reproductive rights, and Abbey's journey into art. Abbey shares her personal experience with IVF, talks about the impact of recent legal changes in Alabama on reproductive rights, and how these issues have intersected with her life and work. The conversation also touches on Abbey's artistic exploration of the female form through nude portraits, empowering women by reimagining their self-perception through art. Through sharing her story, Abbey hopes to de-stigmatize discussions around reproductive health and encourage others to raise their voices for change.00:00 Welcome to She Well Red: Introducing Abbey Crain02:40 Abbey Crain: A Journalist's Journey and Battling Imposter Syndrome07:04 From Fashion to Frontlines: Abbey's Evolution in Journalism11:19 The Power of Emotion and the Impact of Journalism22:03 Exploring IVF, Reproductive Rights, and Personal Stories25:36 Abbey's IVF Journey Amidst Legal Challenges30:08 The Emotional Toll of IVF Restrictions31:35 Navigating the Complexities of IVF and Legal Challenges33:47 The Impact of Legislation on Personal Lives and Reproductive Rights38:48 Exploring the Importance of Voting and Political Engagement45:25 Personal Stories and the Power of Community Action54:31 Art as a Form of Expression and Healing01:04:24 Closing Thoughts and Future HopesAbbey's site- https://www.abbeycrain.com/Abbey's substack- https://sendnudes.substack.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/contactFollow SHE WELL READ!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/shewellreadYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-6-RqriJLTi6G0Munzr1igMore links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 22, 2024 • 52min
Get in the Booth! with Winnifred Tataw
Hey well read baddies, welcome to another #Black365 minisode! Today we are joined by the multi-talented author and entrepreneur, Winnifred Tataw, for a deep dive into the art of storytelling and the nuances of self-publishing. Winnie, the creative force behind Win's Books LLC, shares her journey from loving art and writing to building a literature media conglomerate. We got a behind-the-scenes look at Winnie's process from writing to publishing, and the challenges and triumphs of making a standalone book evolve into a captivating series. The conversation also covers practical advice for budding authors on marketing, dealing with criticism, and managing a burgeoning small business. Winnie's refreshing perspective shines a light on the dedication behind self-publishing and fostering a community of authors and readers. Don't miss this episode full of insights, laughter, and tips from the pink-glittery world of Winnie.00:00 Welcome to She Well Read!01:00 Meet Winnie: Author and Entrepreneur01:45 The Birth of Win's Books LLC06:15 The Journey from Solo Author to Publishing Powerhouse06:43 Navigating the World of Self-Publishing09:26 Expanding Beyond the Page: The Growth of Win's Books12:05 From College to Bestselling Author: Winnie's Unexpected Path16:54 The Creative Process and Future Projects23:00 Embracing Feedback and the Evolution of Writing26:06 The Impact of Fan Fiction and Creative Freedom27:40 Navigating Criticism and Social Media as an Artist29:12 Choosing Your Battles: The Art of Response29:37 The Publishing Company's Approach to Criticism33:12 Marketing Missteps: A Case Study on a Misunderstood Movie35:27 The Importance of Accurate Marketing in Creative Spaces44:31 Fantasy Worlds and Future ProjectsThe book- https://amzn.to/3Qrno9YWinnie's site- https://winsbooks.blog/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/contactFollow SHE WELL READ!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/shewellreadYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-6-RqriJLTi6G0Munzr1igMore links including discount codes: https://msha.ke/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 8, 2024 • 49min
SWR Minisode: Words That Bind Us with Author Dhayana Alejandrina
Hey well read baddies, welcome to another #Black365 minisode! Today we sit down with poet, community facilitator, and creative writing mentor Dhayana Alejandrina to discuss her life journey and the power of storytelling. Dhayana shares her experiences of moving from the Dominican Republic to the United States, her passion for uniting people through writing, and the transformative nature of self-expression. She also delves into her inspiration from her parents, the challenge of switching languages, and her process of becoming comfortable with her own voice. The conversation highlights Dhayana's upcoming poetry book, her new role, and her initiative to create communal creative spaces. 00:00 Welcome to She Well Read: Introducing Dhayana Alejandrina01:07 Dhayana's Journey: From the Dominican Republic to Poet and Mentor03:15 The Roots of Creativity: Family Influence and Early Writing04:14 Navigating New Identities: Transitioning to Life in the U.S.05:33 The Power of Storytelling and Community Building08:09 Embracing the Digital Age: The Shift in Communication09:23 Travel and Storytelling: Gaining Perspective Through Cultures10:17 The Evolution of Writing: From Personal Journals to Public Sharing22:38 Facing Fears and Finding Community: The Journey to Publishing27:20 Agridulce: Unveiling the Inspiration Behind the Book27:36 Unveiling the Inspiration Behind 'Agridulce'29:56 The Evolution of a Book Title33:33 The Creative Process and Spiritual Journey35:02 Embracing Vulnerability and Self-Discovery37:52 The Role of Creativity in Personal Growth39:01 New Ventures: Leading at Freak Noir Magazine39:15 Creating Opportunities for Emerging Writers42:43 Reflecting on the Oscars and the Importance of Support45:23 Upcoming Projects and How to ConnectThe book- https://amzn.to/3Qrno9YWe 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/contactFollow SHE WELL READ!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/shewellreadYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-6-RqriJLTi6G0Munzr1igMore links including discount codes: https://msha.ke/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 25, 2024 • 38min
SWR Minisode: New Year, New Me and Season 5 Updates!
Hey well read baddies! Welcome in to all of our new and returning listeners! Disclaimer: we are still working out the kinks of Sam's new mic so please forgive us!! On today's episode, Lana and Sam are catching up with you all on all of the things including... the season 5 book vote! Y'all ready for season 5?! Be sure to cast your vote by Wednesday, April 3rd using the link below.Link to vote- https://forms.gle/WCiVUa2mRqsnmSEJAWe 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://shewellread.com/podcast/Follow SHE WELL READ! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/ TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/shewellread Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-6-RqriJLTi6G0Munzr1ig More Links including discount codes: https://msha.ke/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 11, 2024 • 1h 14min
SWR Minisode: F the Fairy Tale! with Author Damona Hoffman
Hey well read baddies, welcome to another #Black365 minisode! Today we welcome back beloved guest, Damona Hoffman, to talk about her new book 'F the Fairytale: Rewrite the Dating Myths and Live Your Own Love Story'. Damona, a seasoned dating and relationship coach based in Los Angeles, opens up about her transition from a dating profile writer to a love expert featured on the Drew Barrymore show and other prominent platforms. The episode takes a deep dive into redefining love beyond societal and media-imposed narratives, the importance of being realistic in dating, and finding joy and magic in relationships. Damona discusses the evolution of dating norms, especially post-pandemic, and how individuals can navigate love and relationships in the digital age. She emphasizes the significance of personal discovery, emotional management, and the potential of each person to create their own love story, encapsulating her experiences and insights from a 20-year career in fostering connections.00:00 Introduction and Welcoming the Guest01:00 Revisiting Past Conversations and Updates01:42 Introducing Damona Hoffman and Her Work03:16 Discussing Awards and Recognitions04:14 Breaking Down the Book Title and Its Inspiration04:31 Understanding the Concept of 'F the Fairytale'06:59 Exploring Common Dating Myths09:30 The Importance of Mindset in Dating10:04 The Role of Choice in Relationships10:47 Personal Stories and Reflections on Relationships13:20 The Science Behind Love and Relationships15:49 The Impact of Social Media and Dating Apps23:12 The Reality of Long-Term Relationships36:46 Exploring Non-Monogamy and Relationship Choices39:07 Exploring Infidelity Statistics40:26 The Importance of Trust in Relationships40:55 The Rise of Non-Monogamy41:51 The Importance of Honesty and Communication42:09 Understanding the Relationship Escalator43:49 The Impact of the Pandemic on Relationships46:44 The Importance of Adaptation in Relationships47:33 The Reality of Breakups01:03:59 The Future of Dating and LoveFind all of the books mentioned in episode at both our Amazon and Bookshop Storefronts- https://amzn.to/3Qrno9Yhttps://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://shewellread.com/podcast/Follow SHE WELL READ!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/shewellreadYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-6-RqriJLTi6G0Munzr1igMore links including discount codes: https://msha.ke/shewellreadLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 19, 2024 • 1h 7min
SWR Minisode: Unveiling the Ghosts of Segregation with Authors Richard Frishman and Brian Foster
Hey well read baddies, welcome to another #Black365 minisode! Today we engage in a deep and enlightening conversation with the creators of the book, 'Ghosts of Segregation: American Racism Hidden in Plain Sight.' The discussion involves photographer Richard 'Rich' Frishman and author Dr. Brian Foster. They discuss the concept of their book touching upon the profound connection between places with racial significance across the United States and the prevalence of racism in today's society. Both guests share their perspectives, their journey with the book, and the need for society to confront and comprehend the distant and recent past to address present racial inequities.00:39 Introduction and Welcoming Guests02:24 Introducing the Book: Ghost of Segregation03:33 Guest Introductions: Rich Frishman and Dr. Brian Foster06:32 The Journey of Creating the Book12:57 The Surprising Discoveries During the Journey16:11 Discussing the Impact of Racism Across the United States24:59 The Power of Nostalgia and Responsibility31:44 Exploring Time Travel and Racial History32:48 Nostalgia and the American Road Trip33:30 The Dark Side of Americana35:41 Confronting Ignorance and Racism40:10 The Struggle for Authentic Representation52:20 The Role of Art and Literature in Social Change58:23 Looking Towards the FutureThe book- https://www.amazon.com/shop/shewellread/list/19SX6FVNGFF0K?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_aipsfshewellread_60SMMWFAY85KBJNN6AH5Books mentioned in episode- https://www.amazon.com/shop/shewellread/list/19SX6FVNGFF0K?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_aipsfshewellread_60SMMWFAY85KBJNN6AH5We 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://shewellread.com/podcast/Follow SHE WELL READ!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/shewellreadYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-6-RqriJLTi6G0Munzr1igMore links including discount codes: https://msha.ke/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 18, 2023 • 33min
SWR Minisode: 2023 Wrapped!
Hey well read baddies! On today's minisode, Lana and Samra wrap up 2023 for SWR and give some updates on what's to come for year 5! Y'all ready for the new season?! Be sure to give us your feedback and some book suggestions for season 5 using the survey link below. Happy Holidays baddies!Link to survey- https://forms.gle/4RkqCJj54H7tTv7W8The Q&A episode- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/she-well-read/id1506524661?i=1000596437447Amazon Storefront- https://www.amazon.com/shop/shewellread?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_aipsfshewellread_PA5F51S67TT3M1J9DQRTBookshop Lists- 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://shewellread.com/podcast/Follow SHE WELL READ! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/ TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/shewellread Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-6-RqriJLTi6G0Munzr1ig More Links including discount codes: https://msha.ke/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 20, 2023 • 45min
SWR Minisode: Hi Barbie! and Summer Renaissance
Hey well read baddies, welcome to another Minisode Monday! Today we are releasing one of our favorite patreon episodes all about the Barbie movie and our Renaissance concert experience! We wanted to give you all an inside look as to what these exclusive minisodes sound like in hopes that you'll consider joining our patreon! We release new minisodes at the end of every month in addition to monthly Q&A calls with Lana and Samra, discounts on merch (coming soon!!) and more! If you'd like to join, please use the link below. We'd love to have you and be sure to share this episode with a friend! Link to our patreon- https://www.patreon.com/shewellread 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://shewellread.com/podcast/ Follow SHE WELL READ! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/ TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/shewellread Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-6-RqriJLTi6G0Munzr1ig More links including discount codes: https://msha.ke/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices


