In this episode of Read the Damn Book, bestselling thriller author and returning guest Lisa Unger joins Michelle Glogovac to discuss her latest novel Served Him Right. They dive into Unger’s writing process, her research on natural poisons, and the powerful themes of female empowerment and sisterhood woven throughout the story. Unger also shares insight into character development, storytelling craft, and the inspiration behind her gripping psychological fiction.

What We're Talking About...

1. Lisa Unger’s process writing Served Him Right
2. Female empowerment and sisterhood themes in psychological thrillers
3. Researching natural poisons and toxic plants for fiction writing
4. Character development techniques and storytelling inspiration

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Author Background

04:11 Themes of Female Empowerment and Social Issues

07:24 The Role of Nature and Research in Writing

10:07 Exploring Female Power and Sisterhood

13:01 Character Development and Personal Connections

16:28 The Writing Process and Future Works

28:59 Passion for Literature

29:23 Anticipation for Future Works

Links Mentioned

Lisa Unger's website: lisaunger.com

Instagram: instagram.com/launger

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with writer Courtney Kocak to discuss her powerful memoir Girl Gone Wild. Courtney opens up about her personal journey through exploitation, identity, and healing, offering an unfiltered look at the challenges of navigating societal expectations and reclaiming her voice. Together, they explore themes of authenticity, vulnerability, and self-discovery, as well as the transformative power of sharing your story.

What We're Talking About...

1. Courtney's 15-year journey of writing a memoir and the challenges of long-term storytelling
2. Exploring themes of exploitation, misogyny, and societal pressure on women
3. The role of authenticity and vulnerability in powerful memoir writing
4. Healing, self-discovery, and reclaiming your voice through personal storytelling

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Courtney Kocak

04:07 The Journey of Writing a Memoir

07:07 Exploring Personal Experiences and Growth

13:13 Cultural Reflections on Misogyny and Exploitation

16:40 Navigating Relationships and Personal Choices

19:28 Facing Judgment and Embracing Authenticity

22:39 Finding Love and Support

25:18 The Importance of Therapy and Healing

28:41 Conclusion and Future Aspirations

Links Mentioned

Order your copy of Girl Gone Wild: https://bookshop.org/p/books/girl-gone-wild-courtney-kocak/f3c06a53692352f1?ean=9781949487541&next=t

Courtney Kocak's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/courtneykocak/

Courtney Kocak's Substack: http://thebleeders.substack.com/welcome

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, Brian Larson, author and host of Shelf Care Society, joins Michelle to discuss his journey to sobriety, the transformative power of books, and the meaningful conversations that have shaped his life. From discussing personal growth to interviewing global changemakers like Malala Yousafzai, Brian shares how authentic connections and storytelling can spark real social change. Tune in to explore how reading, resilience, and purpose-driven dialogue can impact lives and build a more connected world.

What We're Talking About...

1. Brian Larson’s sobriety journey and how recovery transformed his life and purpose
2. The story behind the Shelf Care Society podcast and book club focused on mental health and connection
3. Key insights from Brian’s conversation with Malala Yousafzai and her powerful memoir
4. How books can inspire personal growth, healing, and meaningful social change

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

08:18 The Launch of Shelf Care Society

15:38 Friendship with Malala Yousafzai

22:21 Navigating the Literary World

29:47 The Power of Books and Community

33:15 The Power of Books and Friendship

Links Mentioned

Listen to the Shelf Care Society Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6HWtG5eJ7emQ8iwjOVjpD0?si=481b3305352a44c2