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

In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac speaks with author Beth Granger about her powerful memoir Born and Raised. Beth shares her harrowing 30-year experience living in a cult, her journey toward healing and recovery, and how she ultimately broke free from coercive control. Together, they discuss the warning signs of cult dynamics, the psychological impact of manipulation, and the importance of trusting your intuition. This conversation offers powerful insights into resilience, survival, and recognizing unhealthy power structures.

What We're Talking About...

1. How cults often present themselves as elite, successful institutions to attract and control members
2. The role of family relationships and how cult environments deliberately dismantle family ties
3. Why trusting your intuition can be a powerful tool for recognizing and escaping coercive control
4. The long journey of cult recovery and the importance of patience, healing, and self-compassion
5. The need for vigilance in education systems to prevent manipulation, indoctrination, and abuse of power

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:28 Life in a Cult

07:26 The Impact of Cult Life

11:23 Family Dynamics and Separation

19:12 The Struggle to Speak Out

23:12 Advice for Cult Survivors

30:11 The Role of Support Systems

33:15 Reflections on Strength and Resilience

37:07 Education and Societal Concerns

40:44 Courage to Share: Beth's Story

41:13 Understanding and Empathy: The Importance of Connection

Links Mentioned

Beth Granger's Website: https://bethgranger.ca/

Beth Granger's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happygranger/

Beth Granger's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beth.gillisgranger/