Best Author of Beyond the Rut Podcasts (2025)

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“I’m Stuck in a Rut & Tired as… Girl, Don’t Say It.” 24:28

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2d ago24:28

24:28

Ever feel successful on paper but empty in your spirit? That restless ache could be a holy signal that the season shifted before you did. We open up about the difference between purpose, calling, and assignment—and why mixing them up keeps you tired, second-guessing, and stuck in roles that no longer fit. With Scripture as our guide, we reframe “st…

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Page to Screen Magic: Authors on Adaptations 2:32:30

5d ago2:32:30

2:32:30

Buckle up, book lovers — we’re going full Hollywood this week in an extended edition of Book Lounge! Joe kicks things off with the iconic Louis Sachar, who spills delightful behind-the-scenes tea about writing the Holes screenplay, hanging out on set, and the surreal experience of getting residual checks for his cameo. Then Danielle Valentine pops …

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Real Talk on Raising Emotionally Healthy Kids & How To Parent Them 42:58

1h ago42:58

42:58

In this heartfelt conversation, Donna Moala - @parentingcollective, sits down with family psychologist Ashleigh Warner - @raisinghumanskind, to unpack one of the biggest struggles for parents today, what to do in the heat of the moment when our kids lash out, melt down, fight with siblings, or show aggression and how to understand where the source …

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Food for Thought: Holiday Feasts, Mamrie Hart, and the Books We’re Thankful For 1:46:33

12d ago1:46:33

1:46:33

Comedian, writer, and foodie extraordinaire Mamrie Hart joins Joe in the Book Lounge to talk about her new cookbook All I Think About Is Food, her must-haves for holiday hosting, and why laughter really is the secret ingredient. Then, Carmen, Kevin Norman, and Meara pull up a chair to share the books they’re most thankful for this holiday season. A…

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Empowering New Mums: Finding Sleep Solutions 27:47

9d ago27:47

27:47

Hey beautiful Newborn mummas 👋💛 Do you feel like your newborn will never sleep unless they are on you? 😅 You are not alone. In this heartfelt chat, I sit down with beautiful new mum Dani (@danielle_jenkinson17), who went from contact naps, reflux, and sleepless nights, to calm, connected, and blissful sleep, all with nurturing, supportive & gentle …

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Raising Girls And Boys Who Like Themselves l Kasey Edwards, Bestselling Author 48:01

3h ago48:01

48:01

Donna Moala and bestselling author Kasey Edwards (@kaseyedwardswriter) unpack why your relationship with yourself is the foundation for calm, connected parenting. 💛 Together, they dive deep into how self-love builds confidence, connection, and calm, not just for mums, but for the whole family. You will hear real, evidence-based insights on raising …

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I Told My Mirror To Chill And God Agreed 18:30

15d ago18:30

18:30

Ever looked in the mirror and seen only the labels life stuck on you—failure, broken, not enough? We go right to the heart of damaged self-image and walk through how God rewrites the story with truth that restores, heals, and sends you forward with courage. Anchored in Gideon’s journey from “least” to “mighty,” we unpack how identity shifts when yo…

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Science Fiction Double Feature: Exploring New Worlds through Books 1:33:18

19d ago1:33:18

1:33:18

It’s time to go beyond the stars! In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by Alex Segura, Daniel H. Wilson, and Ken Liu for a cosmic conversation on the ever-evolving world of science fiction. They dive into the genre’s growth, the art of writing in shared universes, and their own galaxy-sized reading recs. Then, Cece and Meara join …

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Your Approval Can’t Pay My Bills, But God’s Love Covers Everything 16:50

23d ago16:50

16:50

Ever feel like you’re auditioning for love? We go straight at approval addiction—how it starts, how it quietly runs our lives, and how to break free by anchoring worth in God rather than in other people’s opinions. Through honest storytelling and a faith-forward lens, we trace the roots of people pleasing back to conditional love and abandonment, t…

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Library Love Letters 2:02:20

26d ago2:02:20

2:02:20

This episode is our ode to the library—the beating heart of every book lover’s story. In segment one, Joe is joined by authors (and librarians, both current and former!) Terah Shelton Harris, Eva Jurczyk, PJ Nelson, and Jenn McKinlay to talk about how their time in libraries shaped their writing and storytelling. Then, in segment two, Joe and our g…

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Break Free from False Labels and Embrace Your True Identity 21:11

20d ago21:11

21:11

Ever feel like your identity lives under a pile of titles, expectations, and old wounds? We go straight at the lie that your past or your job defines you and replace it with a freeing truth: your worth is already declared by God. Through personal stories, scripture, and hard-won lessons, we unpack how false labels form, why they stick, and what it …

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Witch Please: Cozy & Witchy Reads for Fall 1:46:44

1M ago1:46:44

1:46:44

Witch please! In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, we’re leaning all the way into fall vibes with cozy and witchy reads that’ll keep you warm as the weather cools. In segment one, Joe is joined by Claribel A. Ortega, Liz Montague, HB Akumiah, and Travis Baldree for a fireside chat about all things cozy fantasy, witchy worlds, and why we can’t g…

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Haunted Pages: A Halloween Book Lounge Special 2:26:24

1M ago2:26:24

2:26:24

It’s a monster-mash of an episode! We’re going big for spooky season with horror favorites, eerie insights, and enough book recommendations to haunt your TBR straight through Halloween. In this king-sized candy bar of a Halloween special, Joe is joined by horror icons Rachel Harrison and Ryan La Sala to chat about how the horror space has evolved, …

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Redefining Success: How to Find Fulfillment in Your Career After Motherhood 25:05

1M ago25:05

25:05

Ever felt stuck in your career after becoming a mum? You’re not alone. In this episode, Donna Moala chats with career counsellor Anna Black (www.strategiccc.com.au), who helps women and mid-career professionals rediscover what truly lights them up — and create a work life that fits who they are now. Together, they dive into: ✨ How motherhood shifts…

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Beyond the Label: Stories of Disability & Awareness 1:42:25

2M ago1:42:25

1:42:25

In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, we’re going Beyond the Label to explore stories of disability, neurodivergence, and chronic illness — both on and off the page. In Segment 1, Joe is joined by Marie Myung-Ok Lee, who opens up about her experiences as a mother to a child with disabilities. She reflects on the fears, challenges, and moments of…

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✨ From Corporate Burnout to Business Owner: A Journey Through Motherhood & Safety Culture ✨ 22:12

2M ago22:12

22:12

Are you a career mum juggling work, family, and purpose? In this episode, join me and my very special guest, Amanda Amaral - @gotsafem - as we dive into the inspiring journey from corporate burnout to becoming a business owner and how motherhood sparked a mission to transform workplace safety culture. You’ll hear powerful insights on: ✅ Balancing c…

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Creating Space & Time: Taking Aligned Action Toward Fulfillment 31:49

2M ago31:49

31:49

If you’ve ever wondered whether your dream has an expiration date, this conversation was made for you. We unpack how to move from longing to action by creating space, setting SMART goals that respect real life, and surrendering the plan to God’s timing. I share the unfiltered story of going back to school at 30 as a single mom, the routines that ke…

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Back to School, Back to Books: Comfort Reads for Kids (and their grown-ups) 1:36:23

2M ago1:36:23

1:36:23

It’s back-to-school season, which means new routines, new books, and maybe even a little extra stress for kids (and the adults who love them). To help ease the transition, we’re diving into comfort reads for Middle Grade and YA readers. In this episode, Joe is joined by the incredible Rex Ogle, author of heartfelt and vulnerable stories for young r…

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Finding Inspiration Again: Breaking out of Reading Ruts & Writing Slumps 1:50:36

2M ago1:50:36

1:50:36

Season 2 kicks off with a deep dive into those all-too-familiar reading ruts and writing slumps. In this episode, we explore how to find inspiration again—both on the page and in life. In Segment 1, join me with Neal Shusterman, New York Times bestselling author of over thirty award-winning books for children, teens, and adults, as he shares his st…

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Breaking Free: Finding Confidence Beyond External Pressures 23:19

2M ago23:19

23:19

Have you ever felt crushed under the weight of others' expectations? That constant pressure to be everything to everyone while somehow maintaining your own sense of self? In this transformative episode of MAMI on a Mission Podcast, we explore the journey from external validation to authentic empowerment. Drawing from personal experience, I share my…

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Step-Parenting with Love: Navigating Blended Families & Conscious Parenting 48:21

2M ago48:21

48:21

Parenting is hard enough, but what happens when you’re navigating a blended family? In this heartfelt episode, we dive deep into the realities of step-parenting, co-parenting across two homes, raising teens and toddlers with love, boundaries and conscious parenting tools. Join host Donna Moala as she sits down with Kris Byrnes @insideoutwithkris a …

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Live from ALA: Book Lounge by Libby on the Pop-Top Stage 54:05

2M ago54:05

54:05

We’re bringing you something extra special this week—a live recording from the ALA 2025 Pop-Top Stage! Join Joe in conversation with: Henry H. Neff - ⁠website⁠ Mary Roach - ⁠website⁠ Michelle Jabès-Corpora - ⁠website⁠ Olivia Worley - ⁠website⁠ Rex Ogle - ⁠website⁠ Sasha Bonét - ⁠website⁠ Terah Shelton Harris - ⁠website⁠ as they talk books, librarie…

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Jesus Over Everything: Why I'm Not Afraid to Speak Up 15:17

2M ago15:17

15:17

What does it truly mean to stand boldly for your faith in a world that often misunderstands and rejects it? This raw, unfiltered episode delves into the tension between speaking truth and showing compassion as believers in today's polarized society. Through vulnerable personal testimony, I share my journey from deep brokenness to bold purpose—inclu…

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“Discovering the Real You: Healing, Identity, and God’s Plan” 24:10

3M ago24:10

24:10

Transformation begins with self-discovery, peeling back layers of hurt and false identities to reveal who we truly are. Season 8 kicks off by exploring the foundation of the Empower Her program: healing from past wounds, understanding our true identity, and trusting God's purpose. • Healing requires releasing the hurts we've carried—whether rejecti…

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Reading Andy Warhol with Daniel Henning 1:03:25

3M ago1:03:25

1:03:25

In this special bonus episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe sits down with Daniel Henning to dive deep into the writings and ideas of Andy Warhol. From The Philosophy of Andy Warhol to Popism: The Warhol Sixties to a: a novel, this conversation explores the iconic artist’s impact on art, culture, and how we see the world today. Whether you’re a long…

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MAMI Let’s Talk: Menopause, Faith & Finding Strength 26:34

3M ago26:34

26:34

Mariana shares her raw, personal journey through perimenopause, detailing the physical and emotional changes affecting her body, energy levels, and relationships. She offers biblical perspectives and practical wisdom for women navigating this challenging transition while maintaining their identity and purpose. • Gained 53 pounds over the past decad…

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Toddler Taming - HELP!!!! 14:34

3M ago14:34

14:34

On this week's episode, I wanted to dive into talking about toddlers....... Picture this - It is bedtime in your house, and it feels like a full-blown circus. Does your toddler pull every trick in the book, from needing one more drink, to a last-minute wee, to suddenly discovering they are scared of the dark? Mumma, you are not alone. In today’s ep…

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Hispanic Heritage Month: A Conversation on Writing, Identity, and Celebration 2:37:11

3M ago2:37:11

2:37:11

As Season 1 of Book Lounge by Libby comes to a close, we’re getting you ready to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with thoughtful conversations featuring Ann Dávila Cardinal, Isabel Cañas, Cleyvis Natera, Isabel Ibañez, and Tamara Yajía. 🌎 Together, they explore how heritage and identity shape their writing and the stories they share with the worl…

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Every Woman Deserves A Seat at The Financial Table 33:55

3M ago33:55

33:55

On this week's episode, I am excited to share with you Amber Dawson from @Mummysmoney. As a mum of 4 (twins included) and a Certified Financial Planner, I believe every woman deserves a seat at the financial table, and the confidence to speak up once she’s there. I help women ditch the fear, confusion, and “I’ll deal with it later” mindset around m…

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Romantasy Rising: The Explosion of a Genre and What’s Next 1:53:32

3M ago1:53:32

1:53:32

Romantasy is everywhere right now — and we’re diving deep into the magic, monsters, and swoon-worthy romance fueling its meteoric rise. In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe sits down with three of the biggest names in the genre — Jennifer L. Armentrout, Olivia Rose Darling, and Katee Robert — to talk about how romantasy took over bookshelve…

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Trauma To Healing and More with Shari Ingleton 43:48

4M ago43:48

43:48

On this week's episode I am so excited to share with you the gorgeous Shari from @goldsoultherapy. We had a real and authentic conversation about how her life has led her into this wellness space of healing others. A solo mother of three and a seasoned entrepreneur, Shari's personal journey through motherhood, divorce and building successful busine…

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Narratives of Legacy: Indigenous Writers on History, Identity, and Survival 1:51:35

4M ago1:51:35

1:51:35

In this special episode of Book Lounge by Libby, we’re joined by celebrated Indigenous authors Angeline Boulley (Firekeeper’s Daughter, Warrior Girl Unearthed) and Carole Lindstrom (We Are Water Protectors, Autumn Peltier, Water Warrior) for a powerful conversation on legacy, language, and literature. Together, we discuss what it means to write fro…

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“From Rest to Revival: Celebrating 3 Years of MAMI on a Mission!” 23:39

4M ago23:39

23:39

Feeling stuck in a cycle of pouring from an empty cup? Ready to reclaim your purpose and passion? This episode marks a powerful return after a restorative July break, where I share the profound shifts happening in both my personal journey and professional mission. Fresh from completing my advanced life coach certification, I'm bringing enhanced too…

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Holistic Fertility and IVF Specialist - Edwina Taylor 40:49

4M ago40:49

40:49

On this week's episode I am thrilled to have my very special guest Edwina from @edwinataylorwellbeing. She is an amazing Holistic Fertility and IVF specialist located here in Perth. She is also a Counsellor & Healer, Womb Massage therapist and she runs epic women's circles. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did. Let us know your thoughts.…

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The Battle Over Books: Publishers, Libraries & Banned Authors Speak Out 2:16:25

4M ago2:16:25

2:16:25

Book bans are rising at an alarming rate—but librarians, authors, and publishers are fighting back. In this powerful episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by librarian and intellectual freedom advocate Amanda Jones, bestselling author Kalynn Bayron (This Poison Heart), veteran librarian and censorship expert Pat R. Scales, and Skip Dye, SV…

Author Of Beyond The Rut Podcasts