Stories That Bring Us Together: Building Community When The World Feels Fractured - Zibby Owens

In this episode of The Gaslight Effect Podcast, Dr. Robin Stern welcomes Zibby Owens—bestselling author, podcaster, and the founder/CEO of Zibby Media—for a conversation about the stories we're told, the stories we tell ourselves, and how those narratives can help ground us in truth.

Zibby has built a women-led, book-loving ecosystem—spanning a boutique publishing house, a beloved independent bookstore in Santa Monica, retreats and events, and her award-winning daily show Totally Booked with Zibby—all designed to deepen connection between readers and authors.

Together, Robin and Zibby explore how in today's polarized world, community can be a powerful antidote, and how reading and writing can foster meanigful conversations and help you reclaim your voice.

They also talk about Zibby's recent anthology project, On Being Jewish Now—a collection of reflections on identity, belonging, and what it means to keep showing up with honesty in complicated times.

In this episode, you'll hear about:

How Zibby is building a vibrant community of readers and writers

Why stories can be a bridge in a polarized world, helping people feel seen, understood, and less alone

The importance of championing women writers and creating more space for their voices

Turning a love of books into a mission-driven ecosystem (podcast, publishing, bookshop, retreats)

Practical ways to foster connection and belonging—especially when people feel divided or disconnected

If you have ever loved a book, you're in the right place. Stories are best when shared.

To check out this and other episodes, head over to robinstern.com.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone.

Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/

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Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a

Dr. Robin Stern's Books:

The Gaslight Effect

The Gaslight Effect Recovery Guide

Emotional Intelligence for School Leaders

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.