Unabridged: A Book podcast

#Books #Book Club #Ashley, Jen, & Sara #Arts #Podcasting Education

26:18

How do you know when it’s time to make your next big career move? With International Women’s Day around the corner, we are excited to feature Avni Patel Thompson, Founder and CEO of Milo. Avni is building technology that directly supports the often overlooked emotional and logistical labor that falls on parents—especially women. Milo is an AI assistant designed to help families manage that invisible load more efficiently. In this episode, Avni shares her journey from studying chemistry to holding leadership roles at global brands like Adidas and Starbucks, to launching her own ventures. She discusses how she approaches career transitions, the importance of unpleasant experiences, and why she’s focused on making everyday life easier for parents. [01:26] Avni's University Days and Early Career [04:36] Non-Linear Career Paths [05:16] Pursuing Steep Learning Curves [11:51] Entrepreneurship and Safety Nets [15:22] Lived Experiences and Milo [19:55] Avni’s In Her Ellement Moment [20:03] Reflections Links: Avni Patel Thompson on LinkedIn Suchi Srinivasan on LinkedIn Kamila Rakhimova on LinkedIn Ipsos report on the future of parenting About In Her Ellement: In Her Ellement highlights the women and allies leading the charge in digital, business, and technology innovation. Through engaging conversations, the podcast explores their journeys—celebrating successes and acknowledging the balance between work and family. Most importantly, it asks: when was the moment you realized you hadn’t just arrived—you were truly in your element? About The Hosts: Suchi Srinivasan is an expert in AI and digital transformation. Originally from India, her career includes roles at trailblazing organizations like Bell Labs and Microsoft. In 2011, she co-founded the Cleanweb Hackathon, a global initiative driving IT-powered climate solutions with over 10,000 members across 25+ countries. She also advises Women in Cloud, aiming to create $1B in economic opportunities for women entrepreneurs by 2030. Kamila Rakhimova is a fintech leader whose journey took her from Tajikistan to the U.S., where she built a career on her own terms. Leveraging her English proficiency and international relations expertise, she discovered the power of microfinance and moved to the U.S., eventually leading Amazon's Alexa Fund to support underrepresented founders. Subscribe to In Her Ellement on your podcast app of choice to hear meaningful conversations with women in digital, business, and technology.…

Unabridged: A Book Podcast

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Unabridged is a bookish podcast hosted by teachers. We release episodes twice a month, including a monthly Book Club episode and other bookish topics full of recommendations for your TBR list. Join us for bookish fun at our website unabridgedpod.com, on social media @unabridgedpod, or via email at unabridgedpod@gmail.com.

230 एपिसोडस

Unabridged: A Book Podcast

updated 4 days ago

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230 एपिसोडस

#Books #Book Club #Ashley, Jen, & Sara #Arts #Podcasting Education

सभी एपिसोड

1
Shifa Saltagi Safadi’s KAREEM BETWEEN - March 2025 Book Club 34:42

4 days ago34:42

34:42

How do you find your place when you feel stuck between worlds? In this episode, Jen and Ashley dive into Kareem Between by Shifa Saltagi Safadi, our March 2025 book club pick. This middle-grade novel in verse explores identity, belonging, and tough moral choices as Kareem navigates friendships, football, and family while feeling caught between cultures. We discuss our overall impressions, the book’s powerful themes, and some of the moments that stuck with us. Plus, we share book pairings that explore similar themes of identity and community. Let us know what you thought about this one! Remember that you can support us on Patreon if you're interested in contributing to the podcast. Visit the Unabridged website for our full show notes and links to the books mentioned in the episode. Interested in what else we're reading? Check out our Featured Books page. Want to support Unabridged? Follow us @unabridgedpod on Instagram or Facebook . | Join our Unabridged Podcast Reading Challenge . | Visit our curated list of books at Bookshop.org . | Become a patron on Patreon . | Check out our Merch Store . | Visit the resources available in our Teachers Pay Teachers store .…

1
Discussing the Film Adaptation of Nella Larsen's PASSING 40:10

18 days ago40:10

40:10

Have you read Nella Larsen's Passing ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ), a brilliant classic written in 1929? Today, we're sharing our Patreon discussion of the film adaptation of this, which we both thoroughly enjoyed. We talk about the book and film and share our thoughts about the artistic choices. We end with a couple of very entertaining Lit Chat Game questions, so be sure to stick around for those! Visit the Unabridged website for our full show notes and links to the books mentioned in the episode. Interested in what else we're reading? Check out our Featured Books page. Want to support Unabridged? Follow us @unabridgedpod on Instagram or Facebook . | Join our Unabridged Podcast Reading Challenge . | Visit our curated list of books at Bookshop.org . | Become a patron on Patreon . | Check out our Merch Store . | Visit the resources available in our Teachers Pay Teachers store .…

1
Chloe Liese's TWO WRONGS MAKE A RIGHT - February 2025 Book Club 36:56

5 weeks ago36:56

36:56

It’s book club time! This month, we’re diving into Two Wrongs Make a Right by Chloe Liese—a swoony, opposites-attract romance inspired by Much Ado About Nothing. Fake dating? Revenge plot? Emotional depth? We have thoughts. In this episode, Jen and I break down our overall impressions, what worked for us, and some standout quotes that stuck with us. We also share our book pairings for this one, including Act Your Age, Eve Brown by Talia Hibbert and Sonali Dev’s Austen retellings—because if you loved Two Wrongs Make a Right , we’ve got more recommendations to keep that reading streak going. Join us for the discussion, and let us know what you thought about this one! Remember that you can support us on Patreon if you're interested in contributing to the podcast. Visit the Unabridged website for our full show notes and links to the books mentioned in the episode. Interested in what else we're reading? Check out our Featured Books page. Want to support Unabridged? Follow us @unabridgedpod on Instagram or Facebook . | Join our Unabridged Podcast Reading Challenge . | Visit our curated list of books at Bookshop.org . | Become a patron on Patreon . | Check out our Merch Store . | Visit the resources available in our Teachers Pay Teachers store .…

1
Love is in the Air 2025 - Our Latest Romance Recs 20:26

7 weeks ago20:26

20:26

Love is in the air! In our annual February episode, we’re back with some romance recommendations just in time for Valentine’s (or Galentine’s!) season. We’re sharing books that have captured our hearts recently, from star-crossed lovers to unconventional storytelling. But first, we kick things off with our latest reads, including Matt Haig’s The Life Impossible and Jennifer Croft’s The Extinction of Irena Rey —both of which bring unique narrative structures and compelling protagonists to the table. Join us as we chat about what we’re loving (and maybe not loving) in romance right now, with a mix of new releases and backlist gems. Want even more from us? Check out our Patreon for bonus content, exclusive guides, and access to our full back catalog: patreon.com/unabridgedpod . Visit the Unabridged website for our full show notes and links to the books mentioned in the episode. Interested in what else we're reading? Check out our Featured Books page. Want to support Unabridged? Follow us @unabridgedpod on Instagram, Facebook , and Twitter . | Join our Unabridged Podcast Reading Challenge . | Visit our curated list of books at Bookshop.org . | Become a patron on Patreon . | Check out our Merch Store . | Visit the resources available in our Teachers Pay Teachers store .…

1
Percival Everett's JAMES - January 2025 Book Club Pick 51:37

9 weeks ago51:37

51:37

What does it mean to explore identity, legacy, and the complexities of family through a literary lens? For our January book club episode of Unabridged, join us as we discuss Percival Everett’s James . This inventive retelling of Mark Twain's Adventures of Huckleberry Finn reimagines the story from Jim’s perspective, giving voice to a character often overshadowed in the original. Packed with humor, grief, and rich reflection, Everett’s novel invites readers to explore themes of race, agency, and storytelling in a whole new way. Don’t miss this engaging conversation about a brilliant book that will be discussed for many years to come. Join us on Patreon to have access to our back catalog of recordings and resources. Also, just a reminder that this season, we now have a shop on Patreon where you can purchase book discussion guides and other resources. We appreciate your support so much. Visit the Unabridged website for our full show notes and links to the books mentioned in the episode. Interested in what else we're reading? Check out our Featured Books page. Want to support Unabridged? Follow us @unabridgedpod on Instagram, Facebook , and Twitter . | Join our Unabridged Podcast Reading Challenge . | Visit our curated list of books at Bookshop.org . | Become a patron on Patreon . | Check out our Merch Store . | Visit the resources available in our Teachers Pay Teachers store .…

1
Our 2025 Reading Challenges and Looking Back on 2024 23:40

11 weeks ago23:40

23:40

Happy New Year! In this episode of Unabridged , we're diving into our 2025 reading challenges and reflecting on the highs and lows of our 2024 goals. Join us as we share our experiences with various reading challenges—what worked, what didn’t, and the lessons we’re carrying forward. We're also introducing our 2025 Unabridgedpod Reading Challenge . We'd love for you to join us! Whether you’re new to reading challenges or a seasoned pro, this episode offers inspiration and insight to shape your reading life for the year ahead. Don't forget to check out our Patreon shop for discussion guides, book club resources, and more to support your reading journey! Visit the Unabridged website for our full show notes and links to the books mentioned in the episode. Interested in what else we're reading? Check out our Featured Books page. Want to support Unabridged? Follow us @unabridgedpod on Instagram, Facebook , and Twitter . | Join our Unabridged Podcast Reading Challenge . | Visit our curated list of books at Bookshop.org . | Become a patron on Patreon . | Check out our Merch Store . | Visit the resources available in our Teachers Pay Teachers store .…

1
284: Sonya Lalli's A HOLLY JOLLY DIWALI - December Book Club (Encore) 33:21

15 weeks ago33:21

33:21

As we approach winter break, we wanted to share a re-release of a book club episode about a seasonal novel we loved discussing. Looking for a fun, illuminating holiday-centered read? Check out Sonya Lalli's A Holly Jolly Diwali ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ), our December Unabridged book club pick. In this episode, Jen and Ashley discuss thoughts about A Holly Jolly Diwali and share our book pairings including Jean Meltzer’s The Matzah Ball ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ) and Thrity Umrigar’s Honor ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ). Join us on Patreon to have access to our back catalog of recordings and resources. Also, just a reminder that this season, we now have a shop on Patreon where you can purchase book discussion guides and other resources. We appreciate your support so much. Visit the Unabridged website for our full show notes and links to the books mentioned in the episode. Interested in what else we're reading? Check out our Featured Books page. Want to support Unabridged? Follow us @unabridgedpod on Instagram, Facebook , and Twitter . | Join our Unabridged Podcast Reading Challenge . | Visit our curated list of books at Bookshop.org . | Become a patron on Patreon . | Check out our Merch Store . | Visit the resources available in our Teachers Pay Teachers store .…

1
Cynthia Hand's THE AFTERLIFE OF HOLLY CHASE - December 2024 Book Club 29:37

16 weeks ago29:37

29:37

For our December book club episode of Unabridged, join Ashley and Jen as we discuss Cynthia Hand's The Afterlife of Holly Chase . This modern young adult retelling of A Christmas Carol is packed with holiday spirit, humor, and poignant themes. Alongside our book discussion, Ashley and Jen also share our book pairings to complement your reading experience. Don’t miss this festive conversation! Join us on Patreon to have access to our back catalog of recordings and resources. Also, just a reminder that this season, we now have a shop on Patreon where you can purchase book discussion guides and other resources. We appreciate your support so much. Visit the Unabridged website for our full show notes and links to the books mentioned in the episode. Interested in what else we're reading? Check out our Featured Books page. Want to support Unabridged? Follow us @unabridgedpod on Instagram, Facebook , and Twitter . | Join our Unabridged Podcast Reading Challenge . | Visit our curated list of books at Bookshop.org . | Become a patron on Patreon . | Check out our Merch Store . | Visit the resources available in our Teachers Pay Teachers store .…

1
Waubgeshig Rice's MOON OF THE CRUSTED SNOW - November 2024 Book Club 41:29

18 weeks ago41:29

41:29

In our November Book Club episode, Jen and Ashley are discussing Moon of the Crusted Snow by Waubgeshig Rice ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ). Join Ashley and Jen as we explore this haunting post-apocalyptic novel set in a remote Anishinaabe community and as we share our thoughts and pairing recommendations. As the outside world descends into chaos and communication cuts off, the community must grapple with the collapse of modern systems, rediscover traditional ways of life, and confront the arrival of unsettling outsiders. Filled with tension and resilience, Rice’s novel offers a compelling exploration of survival, identity, and the strength of community. Join us on Patreon to have access to our back catalog of recordings and resources. Also, just a reminder that this season, we now have a shop on Patreon where you can purchase book discussion guides and other resources. We appreciate your support so much. Visit the Unabridged website for our full show notes and links to the books mentioned in the episode. Interested in what else we're reading? Check out our Featured Books page. Want to support Unabridged? Follow us @unabridgedpod on Instagram, Facebook , and Twitter . | Join our Unabridged Podcast Reading Challenge . | Visit our curated list of books at Bookshop.org . | Become a patron on Patreon . | Check out our Merch Store . | Visit the resources available in our Teachers Pay Teachers store .…

1
Discussing Greta Gerwig’s LITTLE WOMEN - A Fresh Look at a Beloved Classic 45:10

20 weeks ago45:10

45:10

This month on Unabridged, we’re thrilled to share our Patreon discussion about Greta Gerwig’s Little Women with you all. In this beloved adaptation of Louisa May Alcott's classic novel, Gerwig brings a fresh, nuanced perspective to the March sisters' journeys, exploring themes of independence, ambition, and sisterhood in ways that resonate with today’s audiences. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Little Women or discovering Gerwig’s take for the first time, this episode is full of insights that will deepen your appreciation for the film. Join us on Patreon to have access to our back catalog of more film adaptation discussions like this one! Also, just a reminder that this season, we now have a shop on Patreon where you can purchase book discussion guides and other resources. We appreciate your support so much. Visit the Unabridged website for our full show notes and links to the books mentioned in the episode. Interested in what else we're reading? Check out our Featured Books page. Want to support Unabridged? Follow us @unabridgedpod on Instagram, Facebook , and Twitter . | Join our Unabridged Podcast Reading Challenge . | Visit our curated list of books at Bookshop.org . | Become a patron on Patreon . | Check out our Merch Store . | Visit the resources available in our Teachers Pay Teachers store .…

1
Isabel Cañas's Vampires of El Norte - October Book Club 43:48

23 weeks ago43:48

43:48

In our October Book Club episode, the Unabridged Podcast is diving into Vampires of El Norte by Isabel Cañas ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ). Join Ashley and Jen as they discuss this gripping novel set in 1840s Mexico, where Nena, the daughter of a rancher, faces a sinister threat that lurks near her home, draining men of their blood. After being attacked by this nightmare nine years earlier, Nena is reunited with Néstor, her childhood sweetheart, as they are both pulled into the chaos of the U.S. invasion of Mexico in 1846. Nena, a curandera, and Néstor, a vaquero, must confront their unresolved past while battling a monstrous evil. In the episode, Ashley and Jen share their overall impressions, what worked for them, and some powerful quotes from the book, including a discussion about Nena’s struggle for freedom. They also offer their book pairings. Don’t miss this deep dive into a historical, supernatural story! Visit the Unabridged website for our full show notes and links to the books mentioned in the episode. Interested in what else we're reading? Check out our Featured Books page. Want to support Unabridged? Follow us @unabridgedpod on Instagram, Facebook , and Twitter . | Join our Unabridged Podcast Reading Challenge . | Visit our curated list of books at Bookshop.org . | Become a patron on Patreon . | Check out our Merch Store . | Visit the resources available in our Teachers Pay Teachers store .…

1
Our 2024 Spooky Reads Recommendations 31:28

25 weeks ago31:28

31:28

Are you looking for some spooky reads to get you in the Halloween spirit? We’re back with our 2024 spooky recommendations, perfect for curling up with as the nights get longer. Whether you’re in the mood for dark fairy tales or eerie adventures, we’ve got two books that will give you chills! In this episode, Ashley recommends Melissa Albert’s The Hazel Wood ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ), a dark, atmospheric fairy tale with twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Jen suggests Katherine Arden’s Small Spaces ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ), a creepy middle-grade novel that delivers plenty of suspense and eerie moments, making it perfect for readers of all ages. Get ready for a frightfully good time with these spooky reads! Also, just a reminder that this season, we now have a shop on Patreon where you can purchase book discussion guides and other resources. You do not have to be a patron to purchase from the shop, so feel free to take a look even if you are not patron! We appreciate your support! Visit the Unabridged website for our full show notes and links to the books mentioned in the episode. Interested in what else we're reading? Check out our Featured Books page. Want to support Unabridged? Follow us @unabridgedpod on Instagram, Facebook , and Twitter . | Join our Unabridged Podcast Reading Challenge . | Visit our curated list of books at Bookshop.org . | Become a patron on Patreon . | Check out our Merch Store . | Visit the resources available in our Teachers Pay Teachers store .…

1
Jas Hammonds's WE DESERVE MONUMENTS - September 2024 Book Club 42:11

27 weeks ago42:11

42:11

Have you ever wondered what family secrets are hiding just below the surface? In this episode, Jen and Ashley dive into Jas Hammonds' stunning debut, We Deserve Monuments. As seventeen-year-old Avery navigates the tension between her mother and her terminally ill grandmother, we unpack the complex relationships, hidden histories, and simmering truths that drive this story forward. We discuss how Avery’s search for answers shakes the foundation of her world. Join us as we explore this emotional and thought-provoking novel about family, identity, and the price of truth. We now have resources available for purchase on Patreon; these do not require a membership. We appreciate your support so much, and it helps cover the cost of maintaining our podcast. If you haven't joined us there yet, you can check the details out here . Visit the Unabridged website for our full show notes and links to the books mentioned in the episode. Interested in what else we're reading? Check out our Featured Books page. Want to support Unabridged? Follow us @unabridgedpod on Instagram, Facebook , and Twitter . | Join our Unabridged Podcast Reading Challenge . | Visit our curated list of books at Bookshop.org . | Become a patron on Patreon . | Check out our Merch Store . | Visit the resources available in our Teachers Pay Teachers store .…

1
Get to Know the Hosts - Season 8 33:09

29 weeks ago33:09

33:09

We're back with Season 8 of Unabridged: A Book Podcast! Join us for a special "Get to Know the Hosts" episode where we catch up on their summer adventures, bookish highlights, and what’s been keeping them inspired. Whether you’re a long-time listener or new to the podcast, this episode offers a personal look at the people behind the mic. Tune in now to hear about their latest reads and what’s coming up next for Unabridged! We now have resources available for purchase on Patreon; these do not require a membership. We appreciate your support so much, and it helps cover the cost of maintaining our podcast. If you haven't joined us there yet, you can check the details out here . Visit the Unabridged website for our full show notes and links to the books mentioned in the episode. Interested in what else we're reading? Check out our Featured Books page. Want to support Unabridged? Follow us @unabridgedpod on Instagram, Facebook , and Twitter . | Join our Unabridged Podcast Reading Challenge . | Visit our curated list of books at Bookshop.org . | Become a patron on Patreon . | Check out our Merch Store . | Visit the resources available in our Teachers Pay Teachers store .…

1
Jesse Q. Sutanto's VERA WONG'S UNSOLICITED ADVICE FOR MURDERERS - June 2024 Book Club 35:22

40 weeks ago35:22