Interview or talk-show type podcasts aren’t necessarily a rare commodity within the greater podcast landscape. What isn’t so common, however, are interview podcasts with engaging and interesting guests paired with a skilled interviewer to keep listeners engaged.

I was pleasantly surprised when I was introduced to Moms Don’t Have Time to Read Books, an interview podcast focused on only the most essential books. As the name suggests, episodes are geared for the everyday moms who don’t have time to waste on sub-par books. Host, Zibby Owens, makes sure to only highlight books she vouches for and through the podcast and interview, she provides extra context around the book, story, characters, and more.

As a new parent myself, I can definitely attest to the accuracy of the title. Previously a daily reader, I can’t remember the last book I finished. I was fortunate to exchange emails with Owens and discuss the podcast, the greater podcasting trends, and what makes an intriguing guest. See below for our full Q&A.

Listen: Apple Podcasts | Stitcher

DISCOVER PODS: In your own words, why should listeners tune in to Moms Don’t Have Time to Read Books?

ZIBBY OWENS: Moms don’t have a lot of time. As a mother of four kids under age 12, I know all too well how short we all are on time. (And how exhausted we all are at the end of the day!!) My podcast helps moms escape their own lives for just 30 minutes or less by inviting them into the world of books. I ask authors questions about their writing, their characters and sometimes their parenting. I only highlight books worth reading and try to summarize/distill each book so no one has to waste time on a bad book – the worst!! I help moms maintain their love of learning, their own intelligence and their interest in books and stories in a fun, easy-to-listen-to way!

DISCOVER PODS: How’d you get into podcasting?

OWENS: Accidentally! I was trying to compile a book of essays called “Moms Don’t Have Time to Read Books,” but my agent suggested we work on a different book instead. A young adult author friend of mine, Sarah Mlynowski, told me I should really do a podcast. I’d never listened to a podcast! But I figured I could use that title for the podcast and help moms maintain their love of books without taking all the time to read them.

DISCOVER PODS: Have you noticed any trends that separate successful authors from the rest?

OWENS: Successful authors, unfortunately, have to work on their own PR/promotions/social media so they don’t get lost on the shelves! Content-wise, strong female protagonists seem to be center stage right now!

DISCOVER PODS: Who are some of your favorite guests you’ve had on?

OWENS: I loved interviewing Andre Agassi about his book OPEN. It was one of my first interviews and I was drenched in sweat talking to him over the phone! I adored his book and am a huge tennis fan. I loved interviewing Delia Owens about her #1 bestseller WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING. She couldn’t have been more real and personable. I just loved hearing her insights into human behavior and friendship and all the rest. I also really enjoyed interviewing John Kenney, author of LOVE POEMS (FOR MARRIED PEOPLE), TALK TO ME and TRUTH IN ADVERTISING. He is absolutely hilarious!!! I was laughing the whole time.

DISCOVER PODS: Describe your recording set up? What equipment are you using?

OWENS: I use a Mac, GarageBand and two Blue Yeti microphones. For Skypes I use Beats headphones that my husband gave me for my birthday. For Skype, I also use CallRecorder.

DISCOVER PODS: What’s the biggest challenge you face as an indie podcaster?

OWENS: Finding new listeners!!! I’m always trying to find the right people to listen. Where do you want to take your podcast? I’d love for it to be on one of the main networks or to be featured on Apple Podcasts. Perhaps partner with another literary website or publication. Even make it a TV show.

DISCOVER PODS: What other podcasts are you listening to now?

OWENS: I like Terrible, Thanks for Asking with Nora McInerny; Southern Lady Code with Helen Ellis; Family Secrets with Dani Shapiro, Committed with Jo Piazza… all former guests on my podcast!

DISCOVER PODS: Anything else you’d like to add?

OWENS: This podcast is a dream come true for me. Interviewing authors every week and sharing what makes them unique and awesome is just the best thing ever. When moms tell me that they read a book after listening to my podcast and loved it, that just makes my day!! Thanks to every author and every listener!!!

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