

The Fake Ass Book Club
Moni & Kat
The Book Club is Fake but the Talk is REAL! The F.A.B. Podcast serves cocktails while also serving up stories with a side dish of humor, a sprinkle of sarcasm, and an occasional expletive as garnish. Every hump day, tune in as Moni and Kat playfully and thoughtfully explore compelling books and topics as they relate to the human experience, filtered through the lens as black women in the midwest. Let each episode illustrate the power of storytelling and how it connects us all. This podcast is a reason for them to connect as friends, as individuals, and with their listeners. It’s like therapy you didn't know you needed...along with some laughs! You may come for the books but you'll stay for the vibes!!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 5, 2024 • 1h 4min
Moni and Kat review: HBO series "The Penguin"
Welcome back!! This week Moni and Kat review The HBO series "The Penguin" staring Colin Farrell as Oswald "Oz" Cobblepot, continuing his portrayal from Matt Reeves' The Batman. The eight-episode crime drama delves into Gotham City's seedy underbelly, exploring the power struggles following the death of crime lord Carmine Falcone. It focuses on Oz's ascent as a criminal kingpin, his confrontations with Sofia Falcone (Cristin Milioti), and the psychological and political intrigues that shape Gotham's chaotic landscape. The series is a gritty exploration of ambition, family loyalty, and the corrupting influence of power. Tune in to find out whatthe ladies had to say in this spolier filled review! Cheers!*Please be advised this episode has HELLA SPOILERS and is intended for adult audiences. It also contains adult language and content. We are expressing opinions on the show for entertainment purposes only. Dedication: To our patrons as always!! We love you!Moni: To new enegry that comes with the upcoming New Year!Kat: To the snoring father sitting next to me in the screening of Moana 2 over the weekend and all the real ones trying their best to show up for their kids!!Notes: https://www.vulture.com/tv/the-penguin/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Penguin_(TV_series)**Stranger than Fiction: 💜*Email us at thefabpodcast@gmail.com with your book suggestions and "Stranger Than Fiction" stories; we would love to share them on the show!! Please reach out and let us know how we are doing!! You can find us online by clicking here 👉🏾 https://linktr.ee/Fabpod Please subscribe to www.patreon.com/thefabpodcast.com to enjoy bonus content and weigh in on upcoming topics. Don't forget to follow, rate, review, and SHARE our podcast! Thank you!

Nov 28, 2024 • 57min
Moni and Kat: "Into the Manosphere"
Welcome back! This week the ladies are diving into the shadowy depths of the manosphere—a sprawling online world where masculinity meets self-help, relationships, and, sometimes, toxic ideologies. From self-improvement gurus to radicalized echo chambers, the manosphere has become a powerful force shaping how men and women interact in modern society. Moni and Kat attempt to scratch the surface of buzzwords like 'Red Pill,' the infamous 80/20 rule, & hypergamy—and explore how these ideas have evolved into talking points in mainstream conversations on dating and beyond. Is it a path to empowerment, or does it lead to dangerous extremes? Let’s find out. Get ready for a thought-provoking discussion—because it’s time to challenge assumptions and start to uncover the many layers behind the manosphere and it's impressive and insidious reach. Cheers!! Please be advised this episode is intended for adult audiences and contains adult language and content. We are expressing opinions on the show for entertainment purposes only.Dedication: To our lovely patrons!! Thank you as always. 💜Moni: To the the Baddies at the Raddi (IYKYK)!! Happy B-day Anitra and much love to all the beautiful ladies on our trip!!! To the the island of Grenanda and it's wonderful people, beautiful!!! Shout out to Juan from Venezula for looking out for us on the trip! 🥂Kat: To Josephine Baker not only for her amazing artistry but her work as a spy to help defeat the Nazis!! 🙌🏽*Stranger than Fiction: 💜*Email us at thefabpodcast@gmail.com with your book suggestions and "Stranger Than Fiction" stories; we would love to share them on the show!! Please reach out and let us know how we are doing!! You can find us online by clicking here 👉🏾 https://linktr.ee/Fabpod Please subscribe to www.patreon.com/thefabpodcast.com to enjoy bonus content and weigh in on upcoming topics. Don't forget to follow, rate, review, and SHARE our podcast! Thank you!

Nov 21, 2024 • 51min
Moni and Kat answer AITA Questions!
This week, the hosts take a detour from their usual reviews to dive into the drama-filled world of Reddit’s "Am I the Asshole?" (AITA) threads. From navigating family obligations with estranged relatives to the awkward politics of breakups, sexless relationships, and cringey moments at work parties, no topic is off-limits. Bringing their trademark wit and down-to-earth insights, the hosts break down each scenerio, delivering unique perspectives and plenty of laughs. This playful episode is the perfect blend of entertainment and a much-needed mental getaway. Tune in for the drama, stay for the laughs, and decide for yourself—who’s really the asshole? Cheers!!*Please be advised this episode is intended for adult audiences and contains adult language and content. We are expressing opinions on the show for entertainment purposes only.Dedication: To our patrons as always!! We love you! Moni: To grandmas everywhere, you're the best!Kat: To the Nerds, specifically the GenCon Nerds 🖖🏾Notes: Can Tylenol Help Heal a Broken Heart? Article Below👇🏾https://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/05/fashion/breakups-rejection-neuroscience.html**Stranger than Fiction: 💜*Email us at thefabpodcast@gmail.com with your book suggestions and "Stranger Than Fiction" stories; we would love to share them on the show!! Please reach out and let us know how we are doing!! You can find us online by clicking here 👉🏾 https://linktr.ee/Fabpod Please subscribe to www.patreon.com/thefabpodcast.com to enjoy bonus content and weigh in on upcoming topics. Don't forget to follow, rate, review, and SHARE our podcast! Thank you!

Nov 14, 2024 • 1h 18min
Moni and Kat review: "Megan Thee Stallion: In Her Words" the documentary
This week, the ladies of F.A.B. take listeners on an emotional journey as they dive into "Megan Thee Stallion: In Her Words", the documentary on Prime. Join the hosts as they explore the documentary's raw portrayal of Megan’s rise to fame, the heartbreaking loss of her mother, and the shocking 2020 shooting incident that turned her life upside down. The conversation touches on themes of resilience, public scrutiny, and the battle to reclaim one's voice in the face of constant judgment. With candid reflections and plenty of heart, this episode peels back the layers of fame to reveal the human story beneath the headlines. Grab your headphones and tune in for an inspiring and insightful look at the life of one of today’s most compelling and polarizing artists of our time. Cheers!*Please be advised this episode is intended for adult audiences and contains adult language and content. We are expressing opinions on the show for entertainment purposes only.Dedication: To our wonderful patrons!! Thank you!Moni: To everyone feeling down after the election, keep your heart! Kat: To the young ladies who solved the Pythagorean theorem. https://www.sciencenews.org/article/teenagers-pythagorean-theorem-math**Stranger than Fiction: 💜*Email us at thefabpodcast@gmail.com with your book suggestions and "Stranger Than Fiction" stories; we would love to share them on the show!! Please reach out and let us know how we are doing!! You can find us online by clicking here 👉🏾 https://linktr.ee/Fabpod Please subscribe to www.patreon.com/thefabpodcast.com to enjoy bonus content and weigh in on upcoming topics. Don't forget to follow, rate, review, and SHARE our podcast! Thank you!

Nov 7, 2024 • 1h 5min
Moni and Kat Live: Create. Connect. Collab. "Intentionally Unstoppable" Event
Welcome back! This week the ladies were in the building for the Create. Connect. Collab. "Intentionally Unstoppable" event. In this episode, the hosts bring together a dynamic lineup of women and entrepreneurs, each sharing what it means to be “Intentionally Unstoppable” in their journeys through business and life. With humor, heart, and hard-earned insights, these guests dive into the power of community, connection, and the courage to keep pushing forward. The conversation covers everything from building strong support networks to navigating challenges with intention, leaving listeners with a blend of laughs, relatable stories, and inspiration to fuel their own unstoppable paths. It’s an episode packed with wisdom, resilience, laughs, and plenty of real talk! Cheers!!*Please be advised this episode is intended for adult audiences and contains adult language and content. We are expressing opinions on the show for entertainment purposes only.Dedication: To our patrons as always!! We love you! Moni: To all the unstoppable women in the world!! We see you. Kat: To all the writers creating the stories we love and adding value to our lives.A very special thanks to the ladies of Create. Connect. Collab. @createconnectcollabfor inviting us to be a part of their wonderful event and community! 💜Lateva Woolfork and Starla Mathis💜https://www.instagram.com/latevawoolfork/ https://www.instagram.com/starlakaymathis/Featured guests: LeLe Hill: Vibz Hair StudioIG @styledbyLeLeFB: LeLe Hill Non profit: Ebonie'sGiftsRhonda Holt: Pynk Monky EstheticsIG/FB https://www.instagram.com/pynkmonkyindy/https://youtube.com/@pynkmonkytv?si=Ud313CWv5--Z0GSkKaren Lyles: Karen Lyles Agency: Farmer's Insurance IG @Karen__Lylesagents.farmers.com karen-lylesKendrea Williams: Feast Pitch https://www.pitchfeast.orgFB/IG/LinkedIn: https://www.instagram.com/pitchfeastindy**Stranger than Fiction: 💜*Email us at thefabpodcast@gmail.com with your book suggestions and "Stranger Than Fiction" stories; we would love to share them on the show!! Please reach out and let us know how we are doing!! You can find us online by clicking here 👉🏾 https://linktr.ee/Fabpod Please subscribe to www.patreon.com/thefabpodcast.com to enjoy bonus content and weigh in on upcoming topics. Don't forget to follow, rate, review, and SHARE our podcast! Thank you!

Oct 30, 2024 • 1h 16min
Another Fake A$$ Episode: "Polls, Pop Stars & Pilfered Prep Bowls"
No book this week—it’s a “fake one! "In this episode, Moni and Kat dive into election fatigue, covering last-minute celebrity endorsements for Harris from icons like Beyoncé and Eminem, along with Trump’s appearances on popular podcasts like Rogan’s and Schulz’s.Though they’re not Swifties, they brace for Taylor’s takeover of their city and talk fresh tracks from Glorilla and Megan Thee Stallion, plus Meg’s new Sex and the City obsession, which they were completely into! They round things off with some AITA questions, including one with teriyaki chicken bowl drama, for a fun twist on this packed episode! Cheers!*Please be advised this episode is intended for adult audiences and contains adult language and content. We are expressing opinions on the show for entertainment purposes only.Dedication:To our patrons Thank you!Moni:To the american people hang in there, the election is almost over! Make sure you register to vote and VOTE. Kat: To@blackzeusx for the dope voiceovers. https://www.instagram.com/blackzeusx?igsh=OGVkZXIzMzR1Zmg=Josh Johnson Catholic Church Settlement:https://youtu.be/M-7Mp4JLDVs?si=hR2ZpgG737U4dFw0Beyonce’ Willie Nelson Bruce Springstein Emenim and Tyler Perry Endorse Kamala in Texas:https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2024-election/kamala-harris-rallies-beyonce-willie-nelson-texas-rcna177407https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/24/us/politics/tyler-perry-harris-atlanta.htmlTrump and Rogan interview https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2024-election/trump-records-3-hour-podcast-interview-joe-rogan-rcna177288Judge Joe Brown Calls Kamala HOE: https://www.vibe.com/news/politics/judge-joe-brown-calls-kamala-harris-hoe-unhinged-rant-1234934622/ELON MUSK: Makes a joke to Tucker Carlson about Kamala not being worth killing https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/oct/08/musk-harris-tucker-carlson-assassinationhttps://www.cnn.com/audio/podcasts/one-thing**Stranger than Fiction: 💜*Email us at thefabpodcast@gmail.com with your book suggestions and "Stranger Than Fiction" stories; we would love to share them on the show!! Please reach out and let us know how we are doing!! You can find us online by clicking here 👉🏾 https://linktr.ee/Fabpod Please subscribe to www.patreon.com/thefabpodcast.com to enjoy bonus content and weigh in on upcoming topics. Don't forget to follow, rate, review, and SHARE our podcast! Thank you!

Oct 23, 2024 • 1h 15min
Moni and Kat review "Decoded" by Jay Z, ft. @brotha2daknight
This week the hosts are joined by friend of the show Byron to dive into Decoded by Jay-Z, a compelling blend of memoir, cultural commentary, and lyrical analysis. The book takes readers on a journey through Jay-Z's life, using lyrics from his iconic tracks to reflect on his upbringing in Brooklyn’s Marcy Projects and his rise to global fame. The discussion highlights how Decoded goes beyond personal storytelling, emphasizing hip-hop as a legitimate and often misunderstood art form. Jay-Z’s deep exploration of songwriting and lyricism intertwines with broader themes of race, poverty, culture, politics, and ambition in America. To add some fun, the hosts and guest test their knowledge with a trivia game guessing famous Jay-Z lyrics. It's an engaging episode delving into the brilliance of Jay-Z’s work and highlighting the indesputable influence has on world wide pop culture. Cheers!!Dedication: Patrons!!! You da BEST!Moni:To my granny and her lost puppy!! (Update we found the puppy!) Kat:To my dad, Happy Birthday! @Brotha2daknight: To Calvin @iamkingkao, Happy Birthday, and shout out to Swoop aka the Wing Boss. Guest: Byron E. Vaugh III; @brotha2daknignt About the Book:https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8425806-decoded?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=dNPWwlygbZ&rank=1About the author:https://www.rocnation.com/music/jay-z/https://www.rocnation.com/music/jay-z/Book Stats: Spiegel & Grau, 2010. 317 pages Shout out to Mrs. Berry!! YouTube Audio reading of "Decoded" https://www.youtube.com/@MrsBerryJay-Z QUIZ https://www.funtrivia.com/trivia-quiz/Music/Jay-Z-Lyrics-321550.html💜*Email us at thefabpodcast@gmail.com with your book suggestions and "Stranger Than Fiction" stories; we would love to share them on the show!! Please reach out and let us know how we are doing!! You can find us online by clicking here 👉🏾 https://linktr.ee/Fabpod Please subscribe to www.patreon.com/thefabpodcast.com to enjoy bonus content and weigh in on upcoming topics. Don't forget to follow, rate, review, and SHARE our podcast! Thank you!

Oct 16, 2024 • 56min
Moni and Kat Review "So Far From Home" by Ana Castillo
In this week’s episode, the ladies dive into Ana Castillo’s powerful novel So Far from God, a story that blends magical realism, Chicano culture, and social commentary. They explore the lives of Sofi and her four daughters—each facing unique challenges that reflect the complexities of Chicana identity, feminism, and spiritual resilience. From political activism to mystical healing, the characters’ journeys illuminate themes of cultural pride, survival, and the impact of colonialism on Mexican-American communities.Join Moni and Kat as they unpack the rich layers of this vibrant novel and find out which host didn’t love the book this week and why! Cheers!*Please be advised this episode is intended for adult audiences and contains adult language and content. We are expressing opinions on the show for entertainment purposes only.Dedication: To our patrons as always!! We love you!Moni: To Black Girl Day Off, Oct 11th, for inspiring self care. Kat: To my kids, my son's b-day and my dauther's acheivements in school, athletics and music!About the author:https://www.anacastillo.net/bio/ www.anacastillo.netAbout the Book: https://www.amazon.com/So-Far-God-Ana-Castillo/dp/0393326934Audio Book: 7 hours and 50 minutes Paperback 256 pages, First published January 1, 1993 **Stranger than Fiction: 💜*Email us at thefabpodcast@gmail.com with your book suggestions and "Stranger Than Fiction" stories; we would love to share them on the show!! Please reach out and let us know how we are doing!! You can find us online by clicking here 👉🏾 https://linktr.ee/Fabpod Please subscribe to www.patreon.com/thefabpodcast.com to enjoy bonus content and weigh in on upcoming topics. Don't forget to follow, rate, review, and SHARE our podcast! Thank you!

Oct 9, 2024 • 55min
"Street Smarts and Art": F.A.B. LIVE at The Art Connect Show
🎙️ LIVE from Art Connect 2024! 🎙️Welcome back!! In this week’s episode the ladies of the F.A.B.. Podcast recorded live from the Art Connect event—a vibrant celebration of street art, music, and creativity. With over 80 booths featuring talented artists, creators, live music, photographers, and even a graffiti contest, the hosts capture all the excitement and energy from the heart of the event. Our hosts sat down with fabulous local artists and event curators, engaging in insightful interviews- even adding a playful twist with a fun art history quiz, which brought plenty of laughs and surprises! Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a creative, or just here for the vibes, this episode offers a front-row seat to the magic of Art Connect 2024, showcasing the rich diversity and talent of the artistic community in Indianapolis. Tune in for creativity, connection, and culture as our hosts shine a spotlight on the artists and creators who make this event so special! Cheers!! *Please be advised this episode is intended for adult audiences and contains adult language and content. We are expressing opinions on the show for entertainment purposes only.Dedication: To our Patrons!!! MUCH LOVE!!! Moni: To all the artists!! Kat:To the Farm Free Life Cafe. Guests: Sonny aka Kenneth; @fingercreations, Chris Aragon; @_chrisaragon Tiffany Noel; @tiffanynoel curator of @artmusicandchill, @se7venholistichaven, Kierria KiKi Taylor; kapturedbyki_, Brion; @whatupboah, co-host of @belliesandbullshit, @thelovejonescafe_, @somnslightindy, @artmusicandchill. Trivia:https://artsandculture.google.com/story/why-did-van-gogh-cut-off-his-own-ear/bQJymzRE5UViIwhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Red_Vineyard https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pietà_(Michelangelo)**Stranger than Fiction: 💜*Email us at thefabpodcast@gmail.com with your book suggestions and "Stranger Than Fiction" stories; we would love to share them on the show!! Please reach out and let us know how we are doing!! You can find us online by clicking here 👉🏾 https://linktr.ee/Fabpod Please subscribe to www.patreon.com/thefabpodcast.com to enjoy bonus content and weigh in on upcoming topics. Don't forget to follow, rate, review, and SHARE our podcast! Thank you!

Oct 2, 2024 • 58min
Reclaiming Rest: The Intersection of Creativity and Healing ft. Tasha Marie
Welcome back F.A.B. FAM! This week the ladies welcomed Tasha Marie aka Tasha Mac, who was featured in the docuseries “Naptown Narratives, to discuss her powerful journey of advocacy for recovery, mental health, and purpose. Tasha shares insights on her work, highlighting the intersection of rest, creativity, and healing from trauma, particularly for Black women. Together, we explore how intentional rest can fuel creative processes and aid in recovery, as well as her experience as a Black storyteller amplifying voices in our community. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, self-care, and the transformative power of rest. Cheers!! *Please be advised this episode is intended for adult audiences and contains adult language and content. We are expressing opinions on the show for entertainment purposes only.Dedication: To our patrons thanks we love you…join our patreon www.patreon.com/thefabpodcast.com! Moni: To Banned Books week!! The F.A.B. Podcast supports Banned Books Week because it celebrates the freedom to read and the power of literature to challenge, inspire, and connect us. By highlighting banned or challenged books, we stand against censorship and support diverse voices, particularly from marginalized communities, reminding us that access to all stories is vital for literacy, creativity, and empowerment. Kat:To Hispanic/Latin American Heritage Month Tasha Mac: To all my students… specifically Shamiah, Happy Birthday!Notes: About the guest: Tasha Marie aka Tasha Mac https://linktr.ee/transparentlytasha317https://www.transparentlytasha.com/blogIndianapolis Recorder article: https://indianapolisrecorder.com/naptown-narratives-highlights-local-hero-in-season-4/ Naptown Narratives: https://www.circlecitystorytellers.org/naptown-narrativesWhat is a CSF Leak? https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/csf-leak/symptoms-causes/syc-20522246 F.A.B. Book Recommendation: “Pleasure Activism” by Adrienne Maree Brown https://adriennemareebrown.net Tasha Marie Book recommendation: Janet Cheatham Bell: “Famous Black Quotations for the 21st Century”Still Rising: Famous Black Quotations for the Twenty-First Century a book by Janet Cheatham BellLink to purchase book: https://bookshop.org/p/books/still-rising-famous-black-quotations-for-the-twenty-first-century-janet-cheatham-bell/18399868?ean=9781572843202**Stranger than Fiction: 💜*Email us at thefabpodcast@gmail.com with your book suggestions and "Stranger Than Fiction" stories; we would love to share them on the show!! Please reach out and let us know how we are doing!! You can find us online by clicking here 👉🏾 https://linktr.ee/Fabpod Please subscribe to www.patreon.com/thefabpodcast.com to enjoy bonus content and weigh in on upcoming topics. Don't forget to follow, rate, review, and SHARE our podcast! Thank you!


