Some weeks are busier than others, and this one has been one of the biggest since I launched Page Chewing.

In this week’s Weekly Update, I talk about everything that’s been happening behind the scenes, from new books I’m reading to upcoming podcast episodes, but the biggest news is that the podcast has officially reached the point where it qualifies for monetization through Captivate.

For years, Page Chewing has been a passion project. Between podcast hosting, recording software, artwork, and all the other expenses that come with producing episodes each week, it’s always been something I’ve happily invested in. Reaching this milestone doesn’t mean I’m retiring anytime soon, but it does mean the podcast has taken an important step toward becoming self-sustaining.

To celebrate, I’ve launched three optional membership tiers for anyone who wants to support the show. Members receive early access to episodes, access to a private community area, opportunities to suggest future topics and books, and at the highest tier, monthly community meetups where we can simply talk about books, writing, and whatever else happens to come up.

Of course, memberships are completely optional. The biggest support you can give is simply listening to the podcast, sharing an episode with a friend, or leaving a rating on your favorite podcast platform.

This Week’s Reading

There’s plenty happening on the reading front as well.

The Second Apocalypse spoiler reread continues as we work toward Part Three, and I’m planning something a little different after finishing the first novel, a special episode dedicated entirely to favorite quotes.

I’ve also decided to restart Carpentry and the Elven Forest. Sometimes we pick up a book when life is simply too busy to give it the attention it deserves. Rather than push through, I’d rather start fresh and experience it the way it was meant to be read. Beginning in August, we’ll read through it together in manageable weekly sections, and author Alec French has even agreed to join us for discussions along the way.

Looking a little further ahead, I’m also planning a slow, chapter-by-chapter reread of Blood Meridian. It’s a novel that deserves time, patience, and discussion, and I’m looking forward to approaching it with fresh eyes.

More Author Conversations

The interview schedule has exploded over the past few weeks.

What started as a handful of conversations has quickly turned into a calendar that’s already booked into October. I’ve had the opportunity to sit down with authors from all kinds of backgrounds, discussing everything from fantasy and horror to psychology, creativity, and the writing process.

This week’s episodes feature James P. Rochester, Richard Spiegel, and Robert P. Riley, each bringing a completely different perspective to storytelling and creativity.

One thing that has surprised me most is how generous these guests have been with their time and experiences. Every conversation leaves me inspired to keep reading, writing, and creating.

Behind the Scenes

I also share a few stories about podcasting itself, why I returned to PodMatch, how quickly interviews have filled my calendar, and some surprising things authors have told me about their experiences appearing on other podcasts.

It’s been fascinating to hear just how different every podcast can be, and it reminds me why I enjoy treating every interview as a genuine conversation instead of simply working through a list of questions.

Listen to the Full Episode

If you’d like to hear more about what’s coming next for Page Chewing, the books currently on my reading list, upcoming readalongs, new membership options, and everything happening behind the scenes, be sure to check out this week’s Weekly Update.

As always, thank you for reading, listening, and supporting Page Chewing. Whether you’ve been here since the beginning or just discovered the podcast recently, I truly appreciate you being part of this community.