Notes from Erin Podcast

About Notes from Erin Podcast

The podcast extension of Notes from Erin, your literary soundtrack. I talk with authors, musicians, and fellow book and music lovers about creativity, process, and what they can't stop recommending. notesfromerin.substack.com (https://notesfromerin.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast)

Publisher

Erin Ashley

Category

arts

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

19 Aug 2025

Latest episode

15 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

19 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   15 Sept 2026

   On the Record with Kayla Hardy: Writing The Quarter Queen

   This week I'm talking with Kayla Hardy about her debut novel The Quarter Queen, a historical fantasy following Marie Laveau and her daughter in nineteenth century New Orleans. We get into how the book started as a television pilot before becoming a novel, the real history behind voodoo and its ties to Catholicism, and why she built a fictional Brotherhood to stand in for real systems of power. We also talk through her research process walking the French Quarter, the playlist she built for each character, and of course her dream cast for the eventual show. It's a conversation about faith, folklore, and what it means to write a story that reclaims a piece of history nobody else was telling. Purchase The Quarter Queen (https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/776632/the-quarter-queen-by-kayla-hardy/) Chapters: 00:00 — Welcome to Kayla Hardy and The Quarter Queen 01:19 — Falling in love with reading through Greek mythology 03:23 — From English major to African American literature and voodoo studies 06:47 — Toni Morrison, Beloved, and The Bluest Eye 08:51 — Why voodoo and New Orleans are central to the story 10:25 — What media gets wrong about voodoo 11:44 — Reclaiming zombie mythology and Black folklore 15:20 — How the story started as a TV pilot 17:19 — Turning the project into a novel for creative control 19:30 — Why the story still wants to be television 24:27 — A quick synopsis of The Quarter Queen 26:38 — Marie and Ree as opposites who mirror each other 28:24 — The dual timeline structure and Marie's emotional mask 31:53 — The Brotherhood, the Inquisition, and real historical power structures 36:59 — Writing Marie Laveau as a veiled and complicated figure 40:35 — Why New Orleans is more than a tourist image 43:31 — Building the playlist and cinematic tone of the book 46:10 — Walking, maps, and planning the French Quarter setting 48:24 — Favorite New Orleans food, beignets, and a perfect day in the city 54:23 — What it means to be from both Akron and New Orleans 58:35 — Where to find Kayla, and why people should read the book

2. 

   5 Jul 2026

   Author Haili Blassingame on They All Fall in Love at the End

   In the first episode of On the Record, I sit down with author Hailli Blassingame to talk about her debut novel They All Fall in Love in the End. We get into how the Challengers soundtrack shaped one of the most electric scenes in the book, why she named each part after a song, what revision actually taught her about being a writer, and what it means to write a character who wants everything and refuses to settle for less. Hailli is honest, funny, and genuinely fascinating to talk to. This one sets the tone for what On the Record is all about. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Hailli Blassingame and Her Journey 02:21 The Writing Process: From Drafting to Revision 05:19 Creating a Contemporary Narrative: The Impact of COVID-19 08:12 Exploring Relationships: Love, Polyamory, and Agency 10:58 Character Development: Kat's Journey and Ambition 13:34 Navigating Love Triangles and Complex Dynamics 16:35 Literary Influences and Breaking the Fourth Wall 18:09 Musical Influences in Writing 21:04 Exploring Imperfect Politics 23:24 DC as a Character 26:36 Navigating Polyamory 28:50 The Essence of the Book 30:53 Literary Inspirations

3. 

   23 Jun 2026

   A Harlem Wedding with Tiffany L. Warren

   Author Tiffany L. Warren joins Notes from Erin to talk about her historical fiction novel A Harlem Wedding, the true story of Yolande Du Bois, W.E.B. Du Bois, and Countee Cullen. Tiffany shares how a love of Octavia Butler shaped her as a storyteller, why sad love songs like "Heartbreaker" by Dionne Warwick contain the bones of a romance novel, and how "Congratulations" by Vesta Williams became the soundtrack to the book's wedding scene. We also dig into the real letters between Yolande, Countee, and W.E.B. Du Bois that inspired the novel, the research trip to the Schomburg Center, and Tiffany's dream casting for a film adaptation. Purchase TIffany L. Warren's new novel, A Harlem Wedding here. (https://bookshop.org/a/83717/9780063322172) Subscribe to Notes From Erin here (http://notesfromerin.com) Chapters: (00:00) Introduction to Tiffany L. Warren (01:15) The Journey of a Storyteller (04:28) Inspiration and Creativity in Writing (07:36) Exploring 'A Harlem Wedding' (11:12) The Complex Relationship of Yolande and W.E.B. Du Bois (15:06) Crafting Love Stories: Yolande and Jimmy's Relationship (19:39) The Complexity of Countee and Yolande's Relationship (22:49) The Importance of Letters in Understanding Relationships (25:22) The Grand Wedding of Countee and Yolande (28:08) The Process of Writing Historical Fiction (31:27) The Significance of Music in the Narrative (33:39) Yolande Du Bois: A Hidden Figure in History (35:53) Casting Choices for a Potential Adaptation

4. 

   7 Jun 2026

   Anne Marie Wells on Happy Iceland, Writing, and Finding Joy in Everyday Moments

   In this episode, I sit down with poet and memoirist Anne-Marie Wells to talk about her debut travel memoir Happy Iceland, out June 27th from Star Belt Press. In the conversation we cover what it took to write a book from scratch over ten years with no format training, what Icelandic strangers taught her about happiness, and the simple daily practice she now uses to stay connected to joy. If you've been feeling the weight of the world lately, this one is for you. Pre-order Happy Iceland, here. (https://bookshop.org/a/83717/9798999480101) Subscribe to the Notes from Erin newsletter, here. (http://notesfromerin.com) Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Anne-Marie Wells02:28 The Evolution of Reading and Writing05:02 Role Modeling Reading for the Next Generation07:33 Exploring 'Happy Iceland': The Journey Begins10:25 The Writing Process: From Notes to Manuscript13:01 Overcoming Challenges in Writing15:54 Lessons on Happiness from Iceland18:44 Finding Joy in Everyday Moments22:34 Finding Joy in Everyday Delights26:49 Building Confidence Through Experience31:20 The Importance of Community and Connection36:39 Lessons in Happiness and Mindfulness40:09 Connecting Through Stories and Experiences

5. 

   19 May 2026

   She's Becoming Bookish on Historical Fiction, BookTube, and the Albums That Speak to Her Reading Life

   Carlie of She's Becoming Bookish joins Notes from Erin for a conversation about historical fiction, building a BookTube presence, and the music that mirrors her reading life. She breaks down three historical fiction picks for three different types of readers, makes a case for why audiobooks absolutely count, and names the one album she thinks deserves to be a novel. Come for the book recommendations, stay for the Death Cab for Cutie mention. Subscribe to She's Becoming Bookish on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@ShesBecomingBookish) Subscribe to Notes From Erin (http://notesfromerin.com) Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 02:35 Early reading memories and influences 05:21 Rediscovering reading during the pandemic 07:55 Reading formats: physical, digital, and audiobooks 10:36 The audiobook debate — does it really count? 13:32 Note-taking and book reviews 15:57 Carlie's YouTube journey and why she made the pivot 18:30 Building confidence on camera 26:57 Navigating your digital footprint as a creator 28:11 Why authenticity keeps people coming back 29:35 Connecting through personality and recommendations 31:26 With Love from Harlem and the world of biographical historical fiction 38:31 What draws Carlie to historical fiction 41:28 Three historical fiction picks for three types of readers 45:44 The music that speaks to her reading life

6. 

   27 Apr 2026

   Randee Dawn on We Interrupt This Program & Writing Fantasy That Feels Real

   What happens when fairies decide to make TV? Author and entertainment journalist Randee Dawn joins Erin to talk about her Tuniverse series — contemporary fantasy that swaps swords and sorcery for soap operas, cozy mysteries, and mythical creatures navigating the modern world. Randee's latest book, We Interrupt This Program, drops readers into a magically constructed cozy mystery village — think Murder, She Wrote meets Irish folklore — where the showrunner fairy won't leave his house, the Greek muses have gone on vacation, and a silver-haired writer named Winnie has to figure out why everything has stopped working. It's funny, it's warm, and it's the kind of fantasy that sneaks up on you. In this episode, Erin and Randee dig into the resurgence of contemporary fantasy (and what CGI, Harry Potter, and romantasy have to do with it), how Randee's background covering music and TV for outlets like Variety and the LA Times shaped her fiction, what it actually feels like to write a novel, and why community — writers groups, reading series, conventions — is what made her publishing journey possible. They also talk soundtracks as creative fuel, the writing advice that changed how Randee thinks about character, and why New Zealand might just be the most functional country on earth. Paired this episode: We Interrupt This Program by Randee Dawn — a cozy, witty fantasy that rethinks what entertainment is even for. If you loved this episode, the full conversation — and Erin's album pairing — lives on Substack. Subscribe to Notes from Erin for more books, music, and the conversations that connect them. Chapters (00:00) Welcome & Meet Randee Dawn(01:52) Earliest Reading Memories(03:33) The Fantasy Resurgence Explained(08:20) From Music Journalism to Fantasy Novels(13:37) The Origin of the Tuniverse(16:33) Writing Books vs. Writing Everything Else(21:28) Brooklyn Books & Booze(26:18) We Interrupt This Program — Synopsis(29:08) Building Trope Town(37:57) Character, Conflict & What Makes a Story Work(43:25) Shared Universe Easter Eggs(44:04) How the TV-Phrase Titles Work(48:05) Quick-Fire Round(49:59) Writing with (or without) Music(52:05) Why Everyone Should Visit New Zealand

7. 

   21 Apr 2026

   Leonor Mamanna on Consistency, Reading & Curating

   Leonor Mamanna has sent Leave It to Leonor every single Thursday for almost 10 years, 492 editions and counting. In this episode, we talk consistency, curation, and what it means to be the person people come to for recommendations. We also get into her three-book-at-a-time reading routine and the social campaign she built around A Little Life that took on a life of its own. Subscribe to Leave It to Leonor (https://leaveittoleonor.beehiiv.com/) Subscribe to Notes from Erin (http://notesfromerin.com) Chapters: (00:00) Introduction to Leonor and Her Newsletter (03:04) The Journey of Consistency in Writing (05:57) The Evolution of Leonor's Newsletter (09:04) Curating Content: Essays and Recommendations (11:59) The Influence of Leonor's Career on Her Writing (15:02) Favorite Podcasts and Ideal Guests (17:59) Reading Habits and Influences (25:14) Exploring Literature: Nonfiction and Romance (26:07) Book Recommendations: Must-Reads for Everyone (28:11) The Impact of A Little Life on Social Media (30:19) Creative Marketing: The Evolution of Book Promotion (34:17) The Influence of Social Media on the Book Industry (38:02) Pop Culture Reflections: TV Shows and Characters (44:35) The Value of a Curated Newsletter

8. 

   7 Apr 2026

   Completely Booked with Jordan Hernandez

   As a reader, cultivating a community of fellow readers is important both digitally, and in person and this is one thing that Jordan Hernandez of Completely Booked has thought about and equally perfected. In this interview, I spoke with Jordan about her community, the importance of reading diverse books, lessons she pull from both her reading and running life and so much more. Connect with Jordan: Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/_completelybooked) | TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@completelybookd) | Threads (https://www.threads.com/@_completelybooked) | Substack (https://substack.com/@completelybooked1) Connect with me: Newsletter (http://notesfromerin.com) | Instagram (http://instagram.com/bellametaphor) | Threads (https://www.threads.com/@bellametaphor) Chapters: 00:00 The Journey to Reading 02:57 Building a Community Around Books 06:01 The Evolution of Completely Booked 09:10 The Importance of Diverse Reading 11:58 Navigating Social Media for Community Growth 14:58 Empathy Through Literature 26:44 Exploring Audiobooks and Their Impact 34:06 Highlighting Upcoming Black Women Authors 40:41 The Importance of Reading in Relationships 44:22 Building Community Through Books

9. 

   10 Mar 2026

   ReShonda Tate on With Love from Harlem, Hazel Scott, and Writing Women Back Into History

   In this episode, I sit down with author ReShonda Tate to talk about her new novel With Love from Harlem, a sweeping historical fiction set in 1940s and 50s Harlem following jazz prodigy and civil rights advocate Hazel Scott and her complicated relationship with Congressman Adam Clayton Powell Jr. We get into Hazel's erased legacy, the sisterhood between Hazel and Billie Holiday, what Black women in exile have in common across generations, and what ReShonda believes Hazel would say to artists navigating this moment. Read more on Substack: http://notesfromerin.substack.com (http://notesfromerin.substack.com) Connect with me on social media: Instagram (http://instagram.com/bellametaphor) Threads (https://www.threads.com/@bellametaphor) Connect with ReShonda Tate: Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/reshonda_tate/) Website (https://reshondatate.com/) Purchase With Love from Harlem (https://www.harpercollins.com/products/with-love-from-harlem-reshonda-tate?variant=43822769274914&utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnfiZQS2TbIN2imTyRL-Z0ZuukS2lGVpPXTeFRizAryucsiqKlATxwx7Xh8U4_aem_hKAxQZJP_EF4Icgq8BmTfg) Chapters: (00:00) Introduction to ReShonda Tate and Her Journey as a Reader (02:42) The Creative Process Behind Writing Historical Fiction (05:50) Exploring Hazel Scott's Life and Legacy (08:48) The Complex Relationship Between Hazel Scott and Adam Clayton Powell Jr. (11:37) The Importance of Sisterhood and Friendship in Harlem (14:56) The Cultural Significance of Harlem and Its Artists (17:43) Reflections on Black Womanhood and Resilience (20:07) Looking Ahead: ReShonda's Future Projects

10. 

    3 Mar 2026

    Bsrat Mezghebe - I Hope You Find What You're Looking For

    Interview with Bsrat Mezghebe, author of the debut novel I Hope You Find What You're Looking For, published by Liveright. We talk about Eritrean independence and the real women who inspired the book, her earliest reading memories, the role of music in her storytelling, being featured as a Well-Read Black Girl, and how she balanced personal and political narratives in her fiction. Chapters: (00:00) Meet Bsrat Mezghebe, Author of I Hope You Find What You're Looking For (02:55) Bsrat's Earliest Reading Memories and What Made Her a Writer (05:58) Being a Well-Read Black Girl Pick and What It Meant (08:45) How I Hope You Find What You're Looking For Came to Be (11:52) Writing Eritrean Independence Into a Personal Story (14:50) The Real Women Who Became the Heart of the Book (17:59) How Music Shaped the Writing of This Novel (22:03) Artistic Influences, Cultural References, and the World Behind the Book (25:49) Why the Title I Hope You Find What You're Looking For and Where the Characters Go (28:31) What Bsrat Wants Readers to Take Away (30:58) On Community, Connection, and Who This Book Is For (33:08) Bsrat's Music Picks and Book Recommendations You can watch the full episode on Substack: https://notesfromerin.substack.com/p/bsrat-mezghebe-debut-novel Connect with Bsrat: https://bmezghebe.com/

11. 

    6 Jan 2026

    musical memoirs worth reading

    Random notes on book tracking, music memoirs and reading/listening goals for the new year. Get full access to Notes from Erin at notesfromerin.substack.com/subscribe (https://notesfromerin.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

12. 

    23 Dec 2025

    Bookish Banter with Stephanie of That Bookish Life

    In this episode of the Notes from Erin podcast, Erin speaks with Stephanie, the writer behind the Substack newsletter 'The Bookish Life.' They discuss Stephanie's journey as a reader, her transition from Instagram to Substack, the impact of audiobooks on her reading habits, and the importance of diverse reading. They also share their favorite reads, the role of music in literature, and the significance of tracking reading habits. The conversation highlights the joy of connecting with fellow readers and the excitement of discovering new books. Get full access to Notes from Erin at notesfromerin.substack.com/subscribe (https://notesfromerin.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

13. 

    9 Dec 2025

    Back of House: A Question About Home, Memory, and Belonging

    What does home taste like? In this conversation, Erin sits down with artists Diana Albrecht and Ryan Stopera to discuss their collaborative photobook cookbook, 'Back of House'—a collection of twelve immigrant stories told through food. They explore how food serves as a universal language that connects culture, memory, and identity, the intentional curation of diverse voices, and why celebrating invisible caretakers matters more than ever. From the complexity of answering "what food is home?" to the beauty of cooking failures, this conversation celebrates the stories we carry through the meals we make. Get full access to Notes from Erin at notesfromerin.substack.com/subscribe (https://notesfromerin.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

14. 

    25 Nov 2025

    AI's Impact on the Music Industry with John Wright

    Hi friends — I took an unplanned break last week, but I’m so happy to be back in your inbox the week of Thanksgiving. Thank you for being here and reading this newsletter. A few weeks ago, I was reading one of my favorite newsletters, SNOBHOP (https://open.substack.com/pub/snobhop), and came across an edition about AI’s impact on the music industry. It got me thinking—while AI seems to be everywhere lately, I’d never really considered what it means for music specifically. The implications are fascinating and complex, both challenging and full of possibility. That’s why I’m excited to share my conversation with John Wright (https://substack.com/profile/49872487-john-wright) of John Wright (https://substack.com/profile/49872487-john-wright), where we dive deep into music, marketing, and the questions AI raises for the industry. We explore things like: How do you handle logistics and royalties when AI gives a song like “21 Questions” a sudden resurgence? What role does race play in AI-generated music? What does all of this mean for artists, fans, and the future of music? Clipse album rollout, and their well-deserved Grammy nominations, artists like LaRussell, and how they promote their music, and so much more. Please check out the interview on video, or listen to it on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/notes-from-erin/id1834024836), Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/6tT2BwyVypBuMwKNj8KcLX?si=0adf0766a56f430d), YouTube Podcasts (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL68VVCDWiD-Dwv3GToF7DKDP7zxXPeLYT) or Pocketcasts (https://pca.st/uusimc1o). Also, be sure to subscribe to SNOBHOP (https://open.substack.com/pub/snobhop) which drops every Friday. Here are a few things I thought were worth sharing this week: THINGS TO READ: Telisha “Nikki” Jones who created the viral AI artist, Xania Monet, just landed a 7-figure music contract. (https://www.wsj.com/arts-culture/music/ai-music-xania-monet-breaking-rust-suno-885b0801?gaa_at=eafs&gaa_n=AWEtsqfDpPIzqbcINLu23qcrZ86lbEj3XSnYjkR6LiKG-Ww8ViOJK4MgeQnIDXaHh64%3D&gaa_ts=6924d956&gaa_sig=qAuGGFv7Qakax3e_hJ-SPez8-B7REilvOC-C7VSpvDB6ElY5ECVuIzwN6rOY5zZLfIbQR0u4h2td9JpHSS6ADg%3D%3D) Also, watch her interview with Gayle King (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUBhjOToIC0)which connects to what John and I discuss. Heart the Lover (https://bookshop.org/a/83717/9780802165176) by Lily King (https://bookshop.org/a/83717/9780802165176) was as emotional as people said it would be. I cried so hard reading it on Sunday that I gave myself a mild headache and could not sleep. While it’s devastating, I really enjoyed the writing and recommend you read it. If you do and/or have, let me know your thoughts. (mailto:erin@erinashley.org) I wrote this on here a few years ago, and someone read it over the weekend so sharing it here: Tips on how to be a better reader. (https://notesfromerin.substack.com/p/learn-how-to-be-a-better-reader) I have new tips for this, so will probably update this in the coming weeks. Loved this piece from my friend Kristen L. Berry (https://substack.com/profile/9901930-kristen-l-berry) on what she’s willing to give up for her dream (http://What Am I Willing to Sacrifice to Keep My Author Dream Alive?). If you have not, be sure to purchase her debut novel, We Don’t Talk About Carol. (https://bookshop.org/a/83717/9780593974438) (https://bookshop.org/a/83717/9780593974438) I dibble dabble in Secret Lives of Mormon Wives (https://www.thecut.com/article/the-secret-lives-of-mormon-wives-layla-and-me-essay.html), (https://www.thecut.com/article/the-secret-lives-of-mormon-wives-layla-and-me-essay.html) so naturally, I was intrigued about this article about how a black ex-Mormon seeing Layla from the show brings up some things from her past. Please read this newsletter (https://avaduvernay.substack.com/p/i-tried-to-write-this-but-couldnt) from Ava DuVernay (https://substack.com/profile/541576-ava-duvernay). THINGS TO LISTEN TO: I have not stopped listening to “It Must Be Magic,” by Teena Marie. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UaBIIaPR7Ic&list=RDUaBIIaPR7Ic&start_radio=1) It both put, and kept me in a great mood these past few days, so you should listen to it too. I don’t think I’ve mentioned Summer Walker’s new album, (https://open.spotify.com/album/5X1Y5kGtPQyu4UhjSuTRhx?si=_Pt8j_FMRtiC7C8bk1--aw)Finally Over It, (https://open.spotify.com/album/5X1Y5kGtPQyu4UhjSuTRhx?si=_Pt8j_FMRtiC7C8bk1--aw) but I love it. Truthfully, while her personal life is a little wild, musically, Summer never lets me down. Also, loving the new Wale album (https://open.spotify.com/album/0AIADbs20wMj3229QY0XnN?si=2PLzG86yTwe471PrDoIohA) and Odeal’s new EP. (https://open.spotify.com/album/0xMQR9PD1M0Y70uP3VpyBl?si=C6dPGHxKRYik-9IvHbOwSg) Enjoyed Reese Witherspoon’s interview with Emma Grede (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Miz9p3W84c0) on the Aspire podcast. If you’re watching “The Morning Show,” let’s discuss. Also enjoyed both the Arianna Grande (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqF-GLIjzxk) and June Squibb (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3QsaohEL7gA) interviews on the Good Hang with Amy Poehler podcast (https://www.youtube.com/@Good-Hang-with-Amy-Poehler)(which is maybe my favorite podcast right now). That’s it for this week, I’ll catch you next week. Also, if you enjoy this newsletter and want to support it, I’m offering 50% off annual subscriptions through the holidays. It would mean the world to me—like, actual tears of gratitude. No pressure, but if you’ve been thinking about it, now’s a good time. Okay, love you. Get full access to Notes from Erin at notesfromerin.substack.com/subscribe (https://notesfromerin.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

15. 

    11 Nov 2025

    On writing: debuts, love, journaling and more with author Lidija Hilje

    In this interview, I chat with Slanting Towards the Sea author Lidija Hilje, For the conversation we discuss: Her transition from law to writing, influenced by her early reading experiences. She kept a diary as a child, which helped her process emotions and develop her writing. Her background as a lawyer helped her understand storytelling and character development. The writing process involved balancing her book coaching with her own writing projects. Themes of loss, grief, and motherhood are central to her book, reflecting real-life struggles. Character dynamics in 'Slanting Towards the Sea' explore emotional truths and personal growth. Feedback from critique partners and publishers is crucial, but she emphasizes emotional truth in her writing. The book covers were designed to resonate with the story's themes and cultural context. Writing in English as a second language added a unique perspective to her storytelling. Cultural authenticity plays a significant role in her writing, especially regarding Croatian identity. Read more at http://notesfromerin.substack.com Get full access to Notes from Erin at notesfromerin.substack.com/subscribe (https://notesfromerin.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

16. 

    4 Nov 2025

    Talking Books with Kate Hergott

    Interview with Kate, aka BookWild, a bookstagrammer and podcast host who started her show by cold DMing authors and turning four yeses into a career. We talk about her reading journey from Christian bookstores to thrillers to historical horror, why she got deep into audiobooks this year and which narrators she can't stop following, her thoughts on banned books and reading as a tool against gaslighting, pandemic books, Storygraph vs. Goodreads, and her TBR heading into the end of the year. (00:00) Introduction to BookWild and Podcasting Journey (03:14) The Evolution of BookWild and Community Building (06:06) Early Reading Experiences and Influences (12:11) Diverse Reading Preferences and Genre Exploration (17:55) Podcasting Challenges and Consistency in Content Creation (23:59) The Importance of Banned Books and Historical Context (29:58) Audiobooks: A New Frontier in Reading (32:58) Exploring the Power of Memoirs (35:35) Diving into Fiction: A New Journey (38:59) The Impact of Audiobook Production (42:18) Genre Blending: Unique Storytelling Experiences (49:03) Navigating Audiobook Platforms and Recommendations (52:22) Tracking Reading Progress: StoryGraph vs. Goodreads (01:00:07) Connecting Through Stories: The Role of Narratives

17. 

    7 Oct 2025

    Dishing on Books With Alexis Reliford

    Interview with Alexis Relliford, writer and creator of the Substack newsletter Feeling My Shelf. We talk about her reading journey from YA to romance to horror, why messy characters in fiction make us look at ourselves differently, her summer reading list including Love You to Death and The Best Man, her fall TBR, her junk journaling practice, and why two Libras should never date each other. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction to Alexis and Her Newsletter (03:02) Beyoncé Favorites and Their Impact (05:59) The Birth of a Newsletter (08:56) Reading Preferences and Genres (11:59) Recommendations for Horror and Romance (15:03) Balancing Reading with Life (18:03) The Complexity of Messy Characters (21:02) Reflections on Personal Growth Through Literature (23:54) Book Recommendations and Summer Reads (27:12) Discussion on 'The Best Man' Series (29:47) Final Thoughts and Future Reading Plans (39:32) Audiobook vs Print: A Unique Experience (40:55) Character Analysis: Zuri's Complexity (43:44) Cultural Context: Southern Dynamics in Storytelling (45:13) Character Connections: Dez and Maverick (48:15) TBR Lists and Reading Goals (51:54) Journaling Practices: A Personal Reflection (56:19) Crafting Memories: The Art of Junk Journaling (01:00:04) Astrology and Relationships: A Lighthearted Discussion

18. 

    9 Sept 2025

    Streaming, R&B, and more with Isaiah Diaz-Mays

    Interview with Isaiah Diaz-Mays, writer and artist behind the Substack newsletter Echoes. We talk about building community on Substack, his love of R&B and neo soul, how streaming has changed the way we listen to and value music, the Ticketmaster/Live Nation monopoly, and his five favorite R&B albums of all time — plus his short story series The Emancipation of Catalina De Valle and his debut novel in progress. Connect with Isaiah on Substack ⁠ (https://diazmays.substack.com/) ⁠ Subscribe to Notes From Erin (http://notesfromerin.com) Chapters: (00:00) Meet Isaiah Diaz-Mays: Writer, Artist, and Creator of Echoes (04:02) Why Community Matters More Than Metrics on Substack (10:06) Writing Consistently While Working Full Time and in Grad School (16:09) Growing Up on R&B: Mary J. Blige, SWV, and the Family Stereo (20:02) From Best Buy CD Runs to Streaming: How Music Listening Changed (34:10) Why Streaming Doesn't Pay Artists — and What That Actually Means (36:45) Millions of Streams, Thousands of Dollars: The Math That Doesn't Work (39:12) Live Nation, Ticketmaster, and the Fee That Has a Fee (41:42) Attention Spans, Album Culture, and Sitting With Music (46:53) Giveon, Leon Thomas, Maggie Rogers, and What's on Rotation Right Now (56:28) Five Favorite R&B Albums: Mary J., Sade, Maxwell, Bryson Tiller, and Naomi Sharon

19. 

    19 Aug 2025

    Love You to Death by Christina Dotson

    Interview with debut author Christina Dotson about her novel Love You to Death — a thriller exploring friendship, paranoia, and the chaos of young adulthood. We discuss her creative process, the characters Kayla and Zory, the road trip at the heart of the story, and her love of Bravo reality TV. Purchase Love You to Death by Christina Dotson (https://bookshop.org/a/83717/9780593874974) Chapters: (00:00) Meet Christina Dotson, Author of Love You to Death (06:00) Christina Dotson's Path to Debut Author (11:06) What Is Love You to Death About? (17:45) Kayla and Zory: The Friendship at the Heart of the Story (23:58) The Road Trip, the Chaos, and the Characters (29:59) Friendship, Paranoia, and Psychological Tension (32:50) Pop Culture Nostalgia and Y2K References (37:04) Being Young, Messy, and Figuring It Out (42:16) Dream Casting the Book and the Art of Storytelling (49:05) Bravo, Reality TV, and Vanderpump Rules (55:44) Where to Find Christina Dotson Online

Reach and audience

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Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

3 ratings

Contact Notes from Erin Podcast

Guest appearances

Books guests

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