Smart Podcast, Trashy Books: A Romance Novel Podcast

Programming note: this week's episode is dropping on 30 April 2026. Smart Bitches Trashy Books, LLC, is withdrawing our labor on May 1, 2026, alongside other companies, school districts, and activists as part of the May Day Nationwide Day of Collective Action. For more information, visit MayDayStrong.org. ...Ilana Masad and Stevie K. Seibert Desjarlais are the editors of a new and excellent anthology called Here for All The Reasons: Why We Watch the Bachelor.The essays inside are incredible, and provide deep and incisive critique of The Bachelor franchise from people who love, or used to love it deeply. Some of the topics blew my mind. I was so excited to talk to Ilana and Stevie about their work, and we happened to record just as the latest season of The Bachelorette was cancelled, so we talk about that as well.If you like deep examinations of pop culture and of properties typically dismissed as meaningless fluff – hello, yes, I do! – you’ll have fun with us today.We’re going to talk about conservative fantasy, polyamory, grad school, changing portrayals of masculinity in reality tv, media literacy and so much more.As I say during our conversation, I think the best critiques of things come from people who are fans.TW/CW: At about 50 minutes into the interview, we discuss allegations of domestic violence from Taylor Frankie Paul, and at 1 hour and 20 minutes, we discuss the loss of their friend Dr. Katie McWain, to whom the book is dedicated....You can find Ilana Masad at her website, IlanaMasad.com. She’s on Bluesky @IlanaSlightly, and on Instagram @Ilanaslightlyignorant.You can read Ilana’s article, “How ‘The Bachelor’ Franchise Celebrates Polyamory” from the March 2018 issue of Playboy via the Web Archive. Stevie’s work can be found at The Quarterly Review of Film and Television, The Journal of Pedagogy, The Journal of Popular Film and Television, and The Popular Culture Studies Journal. You can read “From Nobody to Nurturing: Skeptical Action Heroes Seek (and Find) Different Masculinity” online in the Popular Culture Studies Journal, Vol. 13, Issue 2 (PDF)We also discussed:“Media Literacy and Education in Finland” – Finland ToolboxThe Finnish National Curriculum on Media Literacy: A Global Model for Education“Geriaction” The Call Your Coven podcast“Under the Mormon Influence: How the women of Utah blogged and posted their way into American hearts and Wallets” by Bridget Read, 9 Feb. 2026 – The Cut (Paywalled)...This episode is brought to you by Hatch.You know how you finish a romantasy and you just need the next thing immediately? Hatch made that thing.It’s called Ophelia — an original audio drama, inspired by Hamlet, where Ophelia finally gets to be the main character.Forbidden magic, a crumbling kingdom, a slow-burn love triangle with a prince and his very guarded, very intriguing, best friend. The kind of love triangle where you will absolutely pick a side and you will not be quiet about it.Book one of the three part series is now available for free wherever you stream, with new chapters dropping every Tuesday. For books 2 and 3, check out hatch.co/Ophelia....Music: Purple-planet.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When you subscribed to this podcast, I bet you thought, “When is Sarah going to interview an expert on theoretical physics ?” Today is your day!My guest is Dr. Chanda Prescod-Weinstein author of the book The Edge of Space-Time: Particles, Poetry, and the Cosmic Dream Boogie.And if you’re thinking, I was really bad at physics – don’t worry, so was I. I found this book to be both incredibly engaging and just the right amount of challenging. Dr. Prescod-Weinstein is going to explain space-time, and how theoretical physics, Black feminist theory, Robert Frost, and the cosmos are all connected.If you held your breath during the liftoff of Artemis II, and were crying when they splashed down safety, not to worry – so was I. I was extremely excited to interview Dr. Prescod-Weinstein, and the timing is perfect. We are in good hands....Support for this episode comes from The Awkward Agenda by Beth Morton, an open-door romance featuring friends-to-lovers, found family, and pirate cosplay, available now digitally in Kindle Unlimited, and in print from retailers everywhere. ...You can find Dr. Chanda Prescod-Weinstein’sPersonal website: http://chanda.scienceNewsletter: http://news.chanda.scienceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chanda.prescod.weinstein/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chanda.bsky.socialYou can find the abstract for her work, “The Cosmos is a Black Aesthetic” at Duke University Press.We also mentioned NASA’s image collection. ...Music: purple-planet.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You’ve been hearing me talk about this book for awhile, and I am so excited to share with you my conversation with Fortesa Latifi, author of Like, Follow, Subscribe: The Cost of a Childhood Online. Her research into family vloggers and influencers is superb and I’m still thinking about some of the revelations in this book.We discuss the origins of influencing and family vlogging, the benefits and the harms that arise from becoming popular, and the emotional, financial, social, and personal costs of that relative fame.CW/TW: this podcast episode contains discussions of child abuse, exploitation, sexual harassment, and pedophilia. Listener discretion is advised. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Riss M. Neilson joins me today to talk about her new romance, The Bridge Back to You. This is a second chance love story between two exes who unexpectedly inherit shares of the same restaurant – the restaurant that he runs, and that she kind of ran away from.There is so much to discuss in this book: we talk about characters with chronic illnesses like endometriosis, or mental illnesses like OCD. We talk about the astrology of her characters and what insights she can gain from their charts, and then, she gives us a list of restaurants to try if we’re ever in Providence, Rhode Island. And Riss even expands my theory about which foods are the universal expression of human love....Support for this episode comes from Savage Bonds by EV Mitchell, a gritty, paranormal slow-burn body-positive romance with lots of spice, some knotting, and shared psychic sexytimes. Savage Bonds is available now in Kindle Unlimited, or in print from the author's website or your local library! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thank you for joining me for a “from the vault” episode! This is episode 147, originally aired June 26, 2015, so almost 11 years ago.Drs. Jen Lois and Joanna Gregson did a multi-year study on the community of romance authors and I have never stopped thinking about it. In this conversation, we’re talking about that study, what they learned about romance as a community, especially about gender dynamics.You can find their published work based on this study in the following articles – these link to the abstract because I don’t have a membership to this academic database.Aspirational Emotion Work: Calling, Emotional Capital, and Becoming a “Real” WriterSneers and Leers: Romance Writers and Gendered Sexual Stigma Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kate Quinn’s new book, The Astral Library, is out this week and I was so excited to not only get an advanced copy but an opportunity to interview Kate Quinn.We talk about the inspiration for this very magical book, and about books that are sanctuaries. We also talk about library advocacy, book banning, and the deadly threat of bureaucracy.My favorite thing that Kate says: “When you love a book, it also loves you.”You can find Kate Quinn at her website, KateQuinnAuthor.com. She’s on Instagram @KateQuinn5975.We also mentioned:Patricia C. Wrede’s Fantasy Worldbuilding ChecklistSylvie’s Book Dresses on Instagram @sylviefaconcreatricefranceThe Tumblr post about hope that became a poem and a parody of Dr. Seuss.Music: purple-planet.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My guest this week is Julia Quinn and we are talking about, of course, JQ Editions, a new subscription service creating special limited editions of historical romances. I’ve been writing about this since it was announced, and so I got to ask all my questions – and some of yours.Along the way we talk about the historical romance genre, administrative mayhem, and the practicalities of creating special editions of beloved books. Plus you get to hear my reaction when Julia shares some of the 2027 titles.Thank you to Verity, Sue, and Alanna for the questions!You can find Julia Quinn on her website, JuliaQuinn.com, and on Instagram @JuliaQuinnAuthor, and on Facebook at AuthorJuliaQuinn.You can find out more about JQ Editions at JQEditions.com.We also mentioned:Germ and Worm - a travel health podcastEvery Library Jeni's Ice Cream: Bridgerton Collection! Julia Quinn on The Today Show Episode with former romance author and CDC specialist Dr. Jennifer McQuiston122. Ponies, Ebola, and Historical Romance: An Interview with Jennifer McQuiston171. Once More with Ebola and Romance: An Interview Jennifer McQuiston...Do you like to listen to your favorite podcasts on YouTube? Find our latest episodes at on YouTube @SmartPodcastTrashyBooks - and please subscribe. I had to start the channel over.Music: purple-planet.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Candy recapped Heated Rivalry, and is that enough? No, of course not. We had MANY things we wanted to exclaim at each other about, so why not podcast about it?We’re going to talk about the show, the acting, the adaptation, and the fact that this show could never have been made in the US. Jacob Tierney is a genius, and we have many a rabbit hole of research to explore.If you’ve been thinking about this show nonstop, come hang out.You can find Candy Tan @beautifulduckweed on Bluesky and on Tumblr.And you can find the podcast with video on YouTube! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Happy 700th Episode!! Amanda Matta is a debut author (her book is coming in 2027!), media commentator, royal analyst, and an art historian. I’ve mentioned Amanda, and her podcast Art of History, which I love. In that show, she focuses on one particular piece of art and explains the history, context, symbolism, and even the details of how it was made. I like it. So I thought, why not have Amanda Matta give the Art of History treatment to some classic romance covers?We also discuss royal watching, racism, influencing and commentating on popular culture, Henry VIII’s codpiece, art history, and more.This is our 700th episode – woooo! – and it be both video and audio. The audio will be available on your regular podcast feeds, and you’ll hear us discuss and describe the covers in question. However, on the video, you get to see both of us, and the covers!Want to watch on YouTube? Here you go!Speaking of YouTube – did you know the podcast has a YouTube channel? It’s true! Each new episode is automatically uploaded, so if you prefer your podcasts on the ‘Tube, we’ve got you covered. Also, this channel is brand spanking new (I had to recreate it after YouTube deplatformed my last one without explanation. I presume bitches are to blame) so I’d appreciate it if you’d be so kind as to subscribe! If we hit 100 new subscribers, Amanda and I will live broadcast something very fun and silly to thank everyone.Thank you for being part of the podcast community as we reach 700 episodes! This is a big milestone, and I’m so thankful you’re here.You can find Amanda Matta at her website, AmandaMatta.com, on TikTok, and on Instagram.You can find the show notes with all mentioned books and links at SBTB.com, and you can find our podcast on YouTube, or wherever you get your shows!Want more romance commentary? Come hang out at Smart Bitches Trashy Books (https://www.smartbitchestrashybooks.com)We also mentioned:Steve Ammidown’s post about Robert McGinnis, who passed away in 2025Windsor Castle: A Royal YearThe Infamous Three Armed Cover The Art of History PodcastOff with Their Headlines PodcastNorthern Disclosure PodcastThe Midtown Scholar bookshopThe Vulgar History PodcastBachelor Lady Butts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we are talking with Jenna Grinstead, Stephanie Violet, Lisa, and Bull! Yup, we’re visiting Norway this week. Bring a hat.As always we have book recs, including one from the 1500s, wishes, and terrible jokes.Please note: during my conversation with Lisa, we discuss true crime and historical murders.We also mentioned:The Bridge (tv show) Simple Happy Zen PodcastPlaying for Keeps PodcastSamantha.GarcixAnd…sunrise pictures!Important Notes I Want to Keep Shouting About!Thanks to your Patreon pledges, we have reached our goal with the F’ICE campaign, and all dynamic ads are now turned off permanently for everyone who listens. Thank you so much!You can gift a Patreon membership if you’re so inclined! A lovely gift for someone you know who loves the show.AND! The Smart Bitches Candle Collection is available now for a limited time, and boy, howdy, does Wax Cabin Candle Company ship fast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re back with more Holiday Wishes! This week we’re talking with Rae A., Josephine, and Sneezy!This week we are talking romance bookstores and road trips, luxurious bidets, webtoons, and, of course, books. And some ranting about women artists in history. We are traveling as far as Taiwan in this episode – and this should be the last of my laryngitis – hooray for all of us!We also discussed:Webtoon: Only HopePodcast: Worlds Beyond NumbersThe Duchamp FountainFanfic: “Backhoe” by Zenoida McRoraBrightside Books and WineUpdates!Thanks to your Patreon pledges, we have reached our goal with the F’ICE campaign, and all dynamic ads will be turned off permanently for everyone who listens. Thank you so much!You can gift a Patreon membership if you're so inclined! A lovely gift for someone you know who loves the show.AND! The Smart Bitches Candle Collection is LIVE! For a limited time only, you can get a Smart Bitches 20th Anniversary candle, and a Bad Decisions Book Club candle. You can shop small, support the site, and spread light and warmth this year. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ready for more wishes and recs? And bad jokes? I bet you are! This week we’re talking with Agnes, Emily, Sarah Jane, and Jenn – and Min the cat.And in the outro, you’ll hear from ShoesforAll, aka Sarah.And! Important announcement 1: thanks to your Patreon pledges, we have reached our goal with the F’ICE campaign, and all dynamic ads will be turned off permanently for everyone who listens. Thank you so much!Important announcement 2: the Smart Bitches Candle Collection is LIVE! I partnered with Wax Cabin Candle Company, an independent small chandlery, to offer two limited edition candles just for the holiday season!They are on sale now, Friday November 28, through early January, and you can buy one or both in a gift set!The Smart Bitches 20th Anniversary candle is an 11 ounce hand poured soy candle with notes of sea salt, book pages, sandalwood and jasmine.The Bad Decisions Book Club candle, also 11 ounces, is designed to be the perfect pairing for late night reading, with scents of sweet tobacco, book pages, leather, rose, and sandalwood. I had a marvelous time picking out the scents.So if you’re looking for the perfect gift for yourself or the book lovers in your life, check out the 2025 Smart Bitches Candle collection. You can shop small, support the site, and spread light and warmth this year.We also mentioned:The episode where we discussed frozen shoulder and other fun menopause things is Episode 658. Romance and Penetrative Sex: A Conversation With Jane BuehlerThe episode where Earth is Garbage and Space is Horny is Episode 392.You can download Stone Butch Blues by Leslie Feinburg from the author’s website.Emily mentioned some birds, and if you’d like to know what they look like, here are pics!The pileated woodpeckerThe red bellied woodpeckerThe great crested fly catcher  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.