By Corinna Kloth
About the Podcast
We’re not just book nerds, we’re Professional Book Nerds® (PBN) who work at OverDrive, the industry-leader for ebooks and audiobooks through your local library and school. With over 2 million downloads, readers and librarians turn to the PBN team for weekly expert book recommendations, author interviews and all things books.
Tell us about yourself.
JS: I’m a Marketing & Events Specialist at OverDrive, the company behind the popular library app, Libby! My role involves planning and organizing literary events across the United States and Canada, helping people discover the incredible resources available through their local libraries. I have been part of the Professional Book Nerds podcast since 2022 and currently serve as its host and producer.
Books have always been a central part of my life, and I have a deep passion for libraries and the essential role they play in communities. I love reading horror, thrillers, magical realism, and a wide range of YA books. When I’m not working, you’ll probably find me listening to audiobooks or catching up on podcasts. I also enjoy tackling DIY projects, finding creative outlets outside of work, and, most importantly, spending time with my Boston Terrier, Roscoe!
How did you get started with The Podcast?
JS: The Professional Book Nerds podcast originally launched in 2015 as a way to share book recommendations, introduce authors to new readers, and celebrate a love of books in all forms. Over the years, it has grown into a trusted space for readers looking for their next favorite book, offering engaging conversations with authors, themed recommendation episodes, and behind-the-scenes publishing insights.
I officially joined the podcast team in 2022, and it has been such an incredible experience to contribute to its legacy. I love sharing my reading habits, connecting with authors I admire, and helping build a community of passionate book lovers. There’s something really special about creating a space where readers can come together, get inspired, and discover books that resonate with them.
How would you describe your podcast?
JS: At its heart, the Professional Book Nerds podcast has always been a cozy and welcoming space for book lovers of all kinds. Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of featuring countless authors, providing thoughtful book recommendations, and celebrating reading in all its forms.
Now, we’re entering an exciting new chapter! We’re rebranding with a fresh new look and feel, as well as an updated format that allows us to explore books and the reading experience in even greater depth. While I can’t share all the details just yet, I can promise that this podcast will continue to be for everyone—whether you’re constantly juggling multiple books or just starting to embrace recreational reading. No matter where you are on your reading journey, you’re welcome here!
What’s the most challenging and most satisfying part of running a podcast?
JS: The most satisfying part is seeing the conversations that come out of it—whether it’s during a recording when a spark of inspiration hits, or after an episode airs and listeners share their thoughts and recommendations in the comments or via email. It’s incredible to see how books bring people together!
If I’m honest, the biggest challenge is finding a time that works for everyone to record—I think we can all relate to that! And then also narrowing down my book recommendations… there are just too many good ones!
What’s one of your favorite episodes?
JS: Oh my gosh, I’ve been so lucky to chat with so many of my heroes and favorite authors—I can’t pick just one! Some of my standout moments include interviews with Drew Afualo, Chuck Palahniuk, Em & Christine from And That’s Why We Drink podcast, Daniel Handler, Chuck Tingle, TJ Klune & Daniel Henning… the list goes on!
Outside of interviews, some of my favorite episodes were the Guess That games—one episode we rewrote book descriptions as gossip and another wrote descriptions as if they were beach reads. They were absolute chaos in the best way!
What’s your uploading schedule, and what can we expect from talking book publishing in the upcoming months?
JS: This year, we’re shifting to a seasonal format! During the off-season, we’ll release 1-3 episodes per month on Thursdays. Then in June, we’ll officially launch our first full season—complete with a new name and a refreshed format. I can’t wait to share what’s coming next!
Where can listeners find talking book publishing?
JS: You can find Professional Book Nerds wherever you listen to podcasts—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. And new for 2025, we’re adding video episodes on the Libby App YouTube channel!
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