The Bookshop Podcast

Send us a textIn this episode, I chat with the accomplished author, editor, educator, speaker, and prominent figure in contemporary American literature, Dr. Kate Gale, Dr. Gale is the Publisher, Co-founder, and Managing Editor of Red Hen Press, one of the largest independent literary publishers in the United States. Under her stewardship, Red Hen Press has earned a reputation for championing diverse voices and publishing high-quality literature that challenges and inspires readers worldwide. As an author, Kate has penned numerous acclaimed works, including poetry collections such as The Loneliest Girl and The Goldilocks Zone, which showcase her distinctive voice and keen observation of life's intricacies. Her debut novel, Under a Neon Sun, interrogates the epidemic of unhoused community college students in California, with her insights on this subject gaining momentum through additional writing in the Los Angeles Times. Her work delves into complex themes with a narrative style that captivates and engages readers across genres.  Additionally, Dr. Gale is a passionate advocate for arts education and has been involved in numerous initiatives aimed at promoting literacy and creative expression among aspiring writers and students.  With a deep-rooted commitment to fostering a vibrant literary culture, Dr. Kate Gale continues to make a lasting impact through her work with Red Hen Press, as well as her writing, editing, and advocacy efforts. Her career embodies a blend of intellectual rigor, emotional depth, and a profound belief in the power of literature to illuminate and transform lives.Red Hen PressKate Gale Under a Neon Sun, Kate GaleAll Fours, Miranda July James, Percival Everett Los Angeles Times Opinion: I was homeless in college. California can do more for students who sleep in their cars, Kate GaleSupport the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

Send us a textHave you ever wondered what it takes to document the most pivotal moments in air, space, and exploration history? Join us for an exclusive conversation with renowned historian James R. Hansen as he shares his remarkable journey from an academic in the history of science and technology to a leading NASA historian. We'll uncover the meticulous efforts behind his acclaimed works, including the authorized biography of Neil Armstrong, First Man, and the probing investigation into the Challenger disaster, Truth, Lies, and O-Rings. Hansen's narrative is not just about historical events but also about resilience, adaptability, and seizing the right opportunities that have defined his career.Hansen shores the gripping tales of two extraordinary adventurers, John Fairfax and Tom McLean, who undertook solo rows across the Atlantic in the late 1960s. Their stories, filled with contrasting approaches and unique backgrounds, capture the essence of human endurance and spirit. Completely Mad: Tom McClean, John Fairfax, and the epic race to row solo across the Atlantic, James R. HansenCutting For Stone, Abraham VergheseTo Purchase Books in Australia, go to yourbookstore.ioSupport the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

Send us a textWhat drives someone to leave behind the familiar comforts of a stable career and leap into the unknown waters of entrepreneurship? Join us as we uncover the inspiring journey of Lizzie Moss, the heart and soul behind Heron Books in Bristol, UK. From teaching classics and working at Waterstones, Lizzie's story is one of resilience and passion, culminating in establishing her dream bookshop amidst the charming Clifton Arcade. Listen to her recount the hurdles and triumphs of launching a business during economically turbulent times and the vibrant, supportive community that makes Bristol a haven for indie bookshops.Heron BooksBrideshead Revisited, Evelyn WaughCold Kitchen, Caroline EdenOmnivore Books Episode on The Bookshop PodcastPraisesong for the Kitchen Ghosts: Stories and Recipes from Five Generations of Black Country Cooks, Crystal WilkinsonThe Heart in Winter, Kevin BarryBirnam Wood, Eleanor CattonMetamorphoses, OvidFor our Australian Listeners: yourbookstore.ioSupport the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

Send us a textHave you ever wondered how the historical floods of the past can shape our future defenses against natural disasters? In this latest episode, I chat with Tim Palmer, an award-winning author and photographer. Tim shares his profound insights on rivers, conservation, and the urgent need to rethink our approach to flood management.Tim recounts his formative years growing up in Pennsylvania and the life-changing experience of surviving the Hurricane Agnes flood of 1972. He discusses his latest book, Seek Higher Ground: The Natural Solution to Our Urgent Flooding Crisis, and why America needs to pay attention to the escalating dangers posed by climate change.We tackle the tough questions about the economic and logistical challenges of managing flood-prone areas and what are the real costs of repeatedly repairing flood damage versus investing in levee upgrades or relocating communities. Tim shares eye-opening statistics on federal spending inefficiencies and explores the fairness of using taxpayer dollars to rebuild in high-risk areas. With examples like Sacramento's costly levee projects, we debate the complexities of flood protection funding and the broader implications of continued development in vulnerable zones.Our conversation also highlights the overlooked plight of climate refugees, using compelling stories from events like the Thomas Fire in Ojai, California, to stress the urgent need for streamlined federal disaster relief. Drawing inspiration from pioneers like Ian McHarg and insights from experts such as Orrin H. Pilkey, Tim emphasizes the necessity of forward-thinking solutions to manage climate-induced displacements. Tim's extraordinary work in floodplain management and his passion for storytelling bring a rich, informative layer to our discussion, making this episode a must-listen for anyone concerned about the future of our environment and communities.Tim PalmerSeek Higher Ground: The Natural Solution To Our Urgent Flooding Crisis, Tim PalmerThe Flag, The Cross, and the Station Wagon, Bill McKibbenSupport the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

Send us a textHi Fellow Booklovers!In this episode, I chatted with community organizer, author coordinator, and interviewer Corey Roskin about how literature can shape and uplift communities.Corey dives into his rich background in psychology and social services, detailing his work on the West Hollywood Book Fair, Lambda Lit Fest, and Pride on the Page. He discusses the complexities of fostering vibrant literary communities in diverse environments and how grassroots activism is critical in promoting diversity and social consciousness. Hear firsthand the challenges and triumphs of organizing literary festivals and get practical advice on creating inclusive and meaningful events. In our final segment, Corey shares his experience adjusting to life in the serene desert setting of Palm Springs and discusses his enduring commitment to social work through volunteer efforts. We spotlight the dynamic literary and cultural arts scene in Palm Springs, mentioning notable authors like Stephen Rowley and Byron Lane and explore the emotional resonance of well-crafted fiction.  Omega Sci-Fi AwardsLAMBDA Lit FestQUEERWISEGay For GoodPride on the Page – Palm SpringsPalm Springs Art MuseumSteven RowleyByron LaneGen-Z For Change - Instagram In Australia, find your books here at YourBookstore.ioEverything I learned, I learned in a Chinese Restaurant – A Memoir, Curtis ChinThe Heaven and Earth Grocery Store, James McBrideSupport the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

Send us a textHi there!In this week's episode, Irish author Alan Murrin tells us about his childhood as an "author," his teen life ensconced in rigorous piano practice, and mastering the art of creative writing at the University of East Anglia. Learn how his varied career in the art world and as a bookseller in London shaped his unique voice, making his debut novel, The Coast Road, a complex story of women dealing with life in 1995 Ireland.Alan takes us behind the scenes of the intense five-way publishing bidding war in London over The Coast Road and his journey from finished manuscript to published book. Explore the societal undercurrents of 1990s Ireland through Alan's eyes as he reflects on the pressures women faced during the 1995 divorce referendum. Hear how Alan's upbringing, with a father involved in fishing politics and a mother running a bed and breakfast, infuses his storytelling with authenticity and emotional resonance. I love The Coast Road and I hope you do too :) Enjoy!MandyAlan MurrinThe Coast Road, Alan MurrinWendy Erskine Books The Sisters Mao, Gavin McCreaSupport the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

Send us a textWhat drives a woman to reinvent herself in her 40s and open a thriving bookshop championing strong women and diverse voices? Join me as I sit down with Diane Park, the remarkable owner of Wave of Nostalgia in Hayworth, UK. Diane’s journey is anything but conventional. From leaving school at 16 and facing early adult responsibilities after her mother's passing to a career in banking and achievements in indoor rowing, Diane’s path has been full of twists and turns. Her story is a powerful testament to resilience as she navigates her roles as a mother, local councilor, and now a bookstore owner. In this episode, Diane transports us to the charming village of Hayworth, famous for the Bronte sisters, where she has created a haven for book lovers who enjoy reading feminist, LGBTQ+, and environmental literature. Diane shares the joys of community life, the challenges and triumphs of running an independent bookshop, and the importance of inclusivity. This episode is a celebration of literature’s power to transform lives and bring communities together.Wave of NostalgiaThe Tenant of Wildfell Hall, Anne BrontëMiranda Hart – The Biography, Sophie JohnsonIs It Just Me?, Miranda HartWalking the Invisible, Michael StewartEmily Brontë Reappraised, Claire O’CallaghanCharlotte BradmanKirsten MillerLaura BatesLeslie KernStephanie ShieldsSupport the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

Send us a textHi,This week, I'm in conversation with one of my favorite authors, Jan Carson. We talk about her latest release, Quickly, While They Still Have Horses, how growing up during the Troubles in Ireland fueled her passion for reaching across divided communities through writing and the arts, and how the Irish writing community supports fledgling writers.  Enjoy,Mandy xoJan Carson is a writer and community arts facilitator based in Belfast. She is the author of several short story collections and novels, including Malcolm Orange Disappears, The Raptures, The Last Resort, and The Fire Starters, winner of the EU Prize for Literature. She has won the Harper’s Bazaar short story competition and been shortlisted for many awards, including the BBC National Short Story Award, the Seán Ó Faoláin Short Story Prize, and the Irish Book Awards Novel of the Year. Jan is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature and her writing has been translated into over a dozen languages, appeared in numerous journals, and been frequently broadcast on BBC Radio. Quickly, While They Still Have Horses is her first book to be published in North America.Jan CarsonQuickly, While They Still Have Horses, Jan CarsonJan Carson's in-person event at El Encanto, Santa Barbara**To learn more about Jan’s short story writing workshop, please email Mandy at mandyjacksonbeverly@gmail.comJan Carson's earlier episode on The Bookshop PodcastOrla MackeyLouise KennedyAgatha Christie BooksBarbara PymShirley Jackson Books Support the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

Send us a textIn this episode, I'm in conversation with Kathleen Caldwell, the passionate owner of A Great Good Place for Books in Montclair Village, Oakland, who opens up about her incredible journey in the book industry. From her college days navigating aisles at Crown Books to orchestrating author events at prestigious bookstores like Shakespeare and Company, Kathleen’s story is one of resilience, community, and an unwavering love for books. She shares the heartfelt tale of taking over the store after the unexpected passing of her dear friend and previous owner, Debi Echlin. Hear about the thoughtful changes Kathleen has made, including expanding the children's section and the deep-rooted connections she’s built through fundraisers and school donations.Get ready to discover the essence of Montclair's literary heartbeat and the importance of building relationships with independent booksellers. Kathleen offers invaluable insights for authors, highlighting the significance of community support and engagement. Learn about memorable author events, including a thrilling encounter with Buzz Aldrin, and get Kathleen’s inside scoop on her favorite reads from authors like Matt Haig and Taylor Jenkins Reid. This episode not only celebrates the magic of finding the perfect book but also underscores the ongoing efforts to keep Montclair’s literary community thriving. Plus, don’t miss our recommendations for must-visit local spots, from the scenic Redwood Park to the delightful dishes at Daughter Thai Kitchen in Montclair Village.A Great Good Place for BooksGo Fund Me for Kathleen CaldwellWe Are Okay, Nina LaCourJoseph Di PriscoI Would Meet You Anywhere: A Memoir, Susan Kiyo ItoMelanie GideonKatherine RothschildWe All Want Impossible Things, Catherine NewmanCatherine NewmanThe Coast Road, Alan MurrinThe Rachel Incident, Caroline O’DonaghueWe Are the Brennans, Tracey LangeThe Live Impossible, Matt HaigSupport the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

Send us a textWhat happens when a lifelong love of literature leads to a storied 44-year career in the publishing industry? Join me for an intimate conversation with Andy Hughes, the recently retired Senior VP and Director of Production and Design at Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group. From his earliest role at Cornell University Medical Library to responding to a "must love books" job ad in the New York Times,  Andy offers an enthralling look at the pre-digital era of book manufacturing and his pivotal move to Knopf. This episode is packed with captivating stories and insights into the evolution of book production and the publishing industry over the decades.Andy discusses the complexities of merging corporate cultures and computer systems and gives a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges of implementing new systems across Knop's imprints. We discuss the resilience shown during the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw a surprising surge in book sales, adding to the compelling narrative of an industry in flux.Our discussion also celebrates the nuances of book production, from the meticulous editorial process to the significance of cover design. Andy shares memorable projects, including collaborations on graphic novels for Pantheon and the prestigious Everyman’s Library series. Reflecting on his career and deep connection to literature, Andy leaves us with a renewed appreciation for the intricate art of creating high-quality books and the enduring love of literature that binds us all. Whether you're a bibliophile or simply curious about the book publishing world, this episode offers a heartfelt tribute to the people and processes that bring stories to life.Support the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links