PLAY PODCASTS
Alone At Lunch

Alone At Lunch

342 episodes — Page 1 of 7

Alone Navigating ADHD with Author Tanya Grant

Oct 12, 202655 min

Alone Sailing Around The World with Cole Brauer

Oct 5, 20261h 3m

Alone Writing Romantic Comedies with Emotional Depth with Author Ellen O’Clover

Sep 28, 202654 min

Alone Bringing People Together with Author Maggie Gates

Sep 21, 202650 min

Alone Telling the Henchpersons’ Stories with Author Marshall J Moore

Sep 14, 202658 min

Alone Being Witchy with Author Isabel Sterling

Sep 7, 202655 min

Alone Capturing The Complicated Human Experience with Author Ally Zetterberg

Aug 31, 202651 min

Alone Growing Up Jewish in Calgary With Comedian Ophira Eisenberg

Aug 24, 20261h 5m

Alone Going on Safaris with Author Natalie Moss

Aug 17, 202654 min

Alone Being Ruined By The Exorcist with Author Isabelle Spotts

Aug 10, 202650 min

Alone Writing Detective Series with author Abbi Waxman

Aug 3, 202658 min

Alone Plotting Revenge on Henry Tudor with author Jillian Laine

Jul 27, 20261h 2m

Alone During the Summer of Love with author Kerri Maher

Jul 20, 202656 min

Alone Observing The World with Liza Tully

Jul 13, 202651 min

Alone Coasting on Vibes with Author Emma Mills

Jul 6, 202653 min

Alone Talking All Things Tennis with Edward Schmit

Jun 29, 202656 min

Alone Blending Genres with Author Rachel Moore

Jun 22, 202647 min

Alone Telling Stories About Unique Women with Author Eve J. Chung

Jun 15, 20261h 1m

Alone Being an Emotional Taster with Author and Artist Catherine Kurtz

Jun 8, 202641 min

Alone Not Knowing The Family Secret with Comedian Holly Brown

Jun 1, 202655 min

Alone Living Well with Autoimmune Disease with Author Mickey Trescott

May 25, 202656 min

Alone Researching Bog Bodies with Author Anna North

May 18, 202655 min

Alone Being Identical Twins with Authors Krista and Becca Ritchie

May 11, 202659 min

Alone Writing Independent Female Characters with Author Deanna Raybourn

May 4, 202657 min

Alone Living Whimsically with Author Moorea Corrigan

Apr 27, 202650 min

Alone Doing Extreme Research with Author Mark Greaney

Apr 20, 202656 min

Alone Exploring The Cost of Youth and Financial Freedom with author Kelly Yang

Apr 13, 202652 min

Alone Being Homeschooled Before It Was Popular with Comedian Jeremy Alder

Apr 6, 202650 min

Ep 54Alone Writing Cozy Crime with Author Fergus Craig

E

This week we are joined by Fergus Craig! Fergus Craig is a multi-award winning writer, actor and comedian. Fergus has written two parody novels based on his character Detective Roger LeCarre. The second, Murder At Crime Manor, was shortlisted for the Bollinger Everyman Wodehouse Prize for Comic Fiction. His third novel, I'm Not The Only Murderer In My Retirement Home, came out in February 2026. In this episode, Fergus Craig shares his journey from the UK comedy scene to becoming a versatile writer, blending humor with storytelling. He discusses the transition from traditional acting to embracing digital platforms, highlighting how this shift has influenced his comedic style and career trajectory. Fergus also delves into the complexities of balancing multiple creative identities, offering personal insights into overcoming imposter syndrome and the creative process. Give this episode a listen! Recommendations From This Episode: LOL UK SNL UK Heartwood - Amity Gaige Follow Fergus:@drferguscraig Follow Carly: @carlyjmontag Follow Emily: @thefunnywalsh Follow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod Please rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mar 30, 202651 min

Ep 53Alone Being Born a Romantic with Author Rosie Storey

E

This week we are joined by Rosie Storey! Rosie Storey grew up on a farm in the south of England. She left her corporate career to finish her debut novel, Dandelion Is Dead. She holds a master’s in creative writing, lives in East London, and works as a writing coach. In this episode, Rose Storey shares her journey from a corporate career in tech to becoming a published author, highlighting the challenges and triumphs she faced along the way. She discusses her novel "Dandelion is Dead," which explores themes of love, grief, and self-discovery through the lens of complex, relatable characters. Rose also reflects on the societal pressures women face and the importance of pursuing one's passion, regardless of external validation. Recommendations From This Episode: PS. I Hate You Boy: Tales of Childhood Follow Rosie: @rosiestorey Follow Carly: @carlyjmontag Follow Emily: @thefunnywalsh Follow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod Please rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mar 23, 202647 min

Ep 52Alone Being Puerto Rican in a White Fraternity with Comedian Rojo Perez

E

This week we are joined by Rojo Perez! Rojo Perez is a New York-based comedian who is currently a recurring guest on Netflix’s Survival Of The Thickest. Originally from Puerto Rico, Rojo served as a writer on Netflix’s DRINK MASTERS. In a busy 2021, Rojo made his network debut on The Tonight Show w/ Jimmy Fallon, while also being featured in Comedy Central’s Tight Five. In April ‘19, Rojo formed part of HBO special titled Entre Nos: Spot On. In 2017 Rojo made his late night stand up debut on TBS "Conan". Since moving to New York City he has been a cast member on MTV's Decoded, featured on Comedy Central's Funny 'Cause It's True, Time Out New York, TruTV's Comedy Knockout and Univision's FLAMA. In 2016 he was selected as a Standup NBC finalist and has been a part of the SXSW, Moontower Comedy Festival among others. His debut album “Words” is streaming now on all platforms. In this episode, Rojo Perez shares his journey from Puerto Rico to New York, discussing his experiences with language acquisition, cultural identity, and the world of stand-up comedy. The discussion touches on conspiracy theories, the impact of music and media, and the significance of Bad Bunny in contemporary culture. Rojo reflects on his college life, the challenges of navigating identity, and his career path in journalism and comedy, while also sharing insights into his writing for television and the balance between multiple careers. Recommendations From This Episode: Survival of the Thickest Drink Masters Follow Rojo: @rojoperezzz Follow Carly: @carlyjmontag Follow Emily: @thefunnywalsh Follow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod Please rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mar 16, 202657 min

Ep 51Alone Growing Up Gay In The Ozarks with Author Wade Rouse

E

This week we are joined by Wade Rouse! Wade Rouse is a USA TODAY, Publishers Weekly, and #1 internationally bestselling author of 21 books, whose work has been translated into nearly 30 languages and celebrated worldwide. His novel That’s What Friends Are For, inspired by The Golden Girls, marks his first book published under his own name and has already been named one of 2026’s Most Anticipated Books, praised as both hilarious and deeply poignant. Wade previously wrote novels under the pen name Viola Shipman, chosen to honor his grandmother, an Ozarks seamstress whose sacrifices continue to inspire his fiction. He also hosts the popular weekly Facebook Live literary happy hour Wine & Words with Wade, and for more information, visit www.violashipman.com or www.waderouse.com. In the episode, Wade Rouse shares his journey from growing up in the Missouri Ozarks to becoming a celebrated author. He discusses the pivotal role his grandmothers played in his acceptance and upbringing, the complexities of his family dynamics, and the importance of finding love and support. Wade reflects on the impact of media representation, particularly through shows like The Golden Girls, and how these experiences shaped his writing. His latest novel, 'That's What Friends Are For,' tackles ageism and queer issues, emphasizing the need for visibility and unconditional love in the LGBTQ+ community.Recommendations From This Episode: The Guncle Alone at a Big Gay Wedding with Byron Lane Designing Women Hot In Cleveland Follow Wade: @authorwaderouse Follow Carly: @carlyjmontag Follow Emily: @thefunnywalsh Follow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod Please rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mar 9, 202653 min

Ep 50Alone Having A Dark Sense of Humor with Author Elizabeth Arnott

E

This week we are joined by Elizabeth Arnott. Elizabeth Arnott is an award-winning writer and journalist and has written critically acclaimed historical fiction as Lizzie Pook. Her work - covering everything from true crime to Arctic exploration - has featured in publications including The Sunday Times, National Geographic, The New York Times Book Review and The Guardian. She lives with her husband and their young daughter in London, where she spends far too much time drinking iced coffee and watching serial killer shows.In this episode, we discuss Elizabeth’s journey through autoimmune illness, love for dark stories, and the fascinating worlds of true crime and genre fiction. Discover how life's unexpected turns shape her writing and perspectives. Give this episode a listen!Trigger Warning: This episode mentions the idea of the death of a child Recommendations From This Episode: Alone Being the Queen of Jewish Romance with Jean MeltzerDevil In DisguiseFollow Elizabeth: @elizabetharnottwritesFollow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpodPlease rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mar 2, 202658 min

Ep 49Alone Being Indo-Fijian with Author Nalini Singh

E

This week we are joined by Nalini Singh! Nalini Singh is the New York Times, USA Today, Wall Street Journal, and international bestselling author of the iconic Psy-Changeling and Guild Hunter series of paranormal romances. She also writes atmospheric New Zealand-set thrillers, the latest of which is SUCH A PERFECT FAMILY. Two of her thrillers have been optioned for television adaptation. Check her out at www.nalinisingh.com!In this episode, Nalini Singh dives deep into weaving Fiji, New Zealand, and Indo-Fijian heritage seamlessly into her thrillers and romances, making her stories resonate worldwide. Discover how she balances multiple genres without losing her writer's voice, and learn about her approach to plot surprises, character development, and integrating her rich cultural background. This episode is perfect for authors, storytellers, or culture enthusiasts eager to craft stories that highlight diversity and depth.Recommendations From This Episode: Rachel Van Dyken - Season 5, Episode 42Send HelpFollow Nalini: @authornalinisinghFollow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpodPlease rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feb 23, 20261h 0m

Ep 48Alone Being A New York City Tour Guide with Comedian LizaBanks Campagna

E

This week we are joined by LizaBanks Campagna! LizaBanks Campagna is New York City based comedian and tour guide. Her work blends cultural commentary, internet chaos, and on-the-ground storytelling. She performs comedy regularly in New York and travels the country for shows. Check her out!In this episode, we delve into the crossover between tour guiding and stand-up comedy and the impact of childhood interests on adult passions. This episode offers a candid look into balancing different careers, embracing authenticity, and finding humor in everyday life.Recommendations From This Episode: Eden UndoneQueer Eye - Season 10, Episode 5Follow LizaBanks: @lizabanks11Follow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpodPlease rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feb 16, 20261h 2m

Ep 47Alone Working to Overturn Wrongful Conviction with Author Yosha Gunasekera

E

This week we are joined by Yosha Gunasekera. Yosha Gunasekera is a Sri Lankan-American attorney who represents people who have spent decades behind bars for crimes they did not commit. She teaches a course at Princeton University focused on wrongful conviction and exoneration. Yosha is a former Manhattan public defender and has written and spoken extensively on the criminal legal system. Check her out at www.yoshagunasekera.comIn this episode, Yosha shares her journey from a nerdy, quirky, service-minded young person to an attorney at the Innocence Project. We discuss growing up in rural Ohio and the transition to living and working in New York City. You don’t want to miss our discussion about the inspiration behind Yosha’s debut novel, "The Midnight Taxi," and how her work as a public defender informs it. Give this episode a listen!Recommendations From This Episode:Law & Order: SVUSerial - Season 1Follow Yosha: @yosha.gunasekeraFollow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpodPlease rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feb 9, 202655 min

Ep 49Alone Writing Romantic Comedies in Venezuela with Author Maria J. Morillo

E

This week we are joined by Maria J. Morillo. Maria J. Morillo is a born and raised Venezuelan ESL teacher, translator, and author of love stories featuring Venezuelan women getting absolutely everything they’ve always wanted. When she’s not writing, you can find her leading the choir at her local church. She currently lives in Maturin, Venezuela, with her family. Her debut novel is The Ex-Perimento. In this episode, Maria J. Morillo shares her journey as a debut author, discussing the excitement and challenges of publishing her first novel. She reflects on her transition from writing in Spanish to English, the influence of fandom on her writing, and the importance of creating relatable characters. Maria also emphasizes her passion for teaching English and her desire to showcase Venezuelan culture through her work. The discussion highlights the significance of community and reader engagement in her writing journey.Recommendations From This Episode:Love ActuallyThe Kissing BoothFollow Maria: @mariajmorilloauthorFollow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpodPlease rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feb 2, 202648 min

Ep 48Alone Being A Monster Romance Author with Ashley Bennett

E

This week we are joined by Ashley Bennett. Ashley is a small-town paranormal and monster romance author from Baltimore, Maryland. She writes stories that are equal parts spice and swoon. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading webtoons, playing cozy video games, and taking care of her houseful of rescue animals.In this episode, Ashley shares her journey from being a veterinary technician to a successful author in the monster romance genre. She discusses her experiences with community engagement, marketing strategies, and entering the traditional publishing space. Give this episode a listen!Recommendations From This Episode: TwilightHeated RivalryFollow Ashley: @ashleybennettauthorFollow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpodPlease rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 26, 20261h 0m

Ep 47Alone Finding Friends in Books with Virginia Kantra

E

This week we are joined by Virginia Kantra. New York Times bestselling author Virginia Kantra is a big believer in the power of stories—the ones we grow up with and the ones we tell ourselves. She has written over thirty novels about strong women, messy families, and the journey to find yourself. Her books have received numerous awards as well as starred reviews from Publishers Weekly and Booklist and praise in People and USA Today.In this episode, Virginia discusses her journey as a writer and the importance of imagination in storytelling. She reflects on her childhood experiences that shaped her love for writing, the influence of her family, and the evolution of the publishing industry. Virginia also shares her thoughts on daily writing routines and the power of storytelling to connect with others. Give this episode a listen!Recommendations From This Episode: Pepper AnnCluelessAnne of a Different IslandFollow Virginia: Insta: @virginiakantra ; Facebook; SubstackFollow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpodPlease rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 19, 202656 min

Ep 46Alone Being Nigerian with Comedian Ihea Inyama

E

This week we are joined by Ihea Inyama. Ihea is a NYC-based comedian, writer, and actor from Ewing, New Jersey. He's a house team writer for UCB's Maude Night, and is a co-creator and star of the web series i’m so happy for you!!!!!!. He has been awarded stand-up comedy residencies at Broadway and Greenwich Village Comedy clubs, co-hosts the variety comedy show Mind the Gap!, and regularly performs stand-up around NYC.In this episode we discuss Ihea’s journey to the comedy scene in New York City. He shares insights into his Nigerian heritage and how his academic background influences his comedy. The conversation delves into the challenges of balancing a day job with a passion for stand-up, the nuances of cultural identity, and the importance of representation in the comedy industry.Recommendations From This Episode: Gilmore Girls Alone Standing Out in a Crowd with Dotun OlubekoFollow Ihea: @ihea_inyamaFollow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpodPlease rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 12, 202654 min

Ep 45Alone Making A Comedy Special with Comedian Jessica Levin

E

This week we are joined by Jessica Levin. Jessica is an NYC based comedian. The daughter of a sanitation worker, with longshoreman genes, she has a blue collar mentality with white color taste. She released her first comedy special, Party Body, on YouTube in November 2025.In this engaging episode, Jessica discusses the importance of saying yes to opportunities, reflects on her childhood and family background, her transition from theater to stand-up, and the creation of her comedy special. She emphasizes the value of community in filmmaking and shares her aspirations for future projects.Recommendations From This Episode: Judy GoldDon’t Think TwiceFollow Jessica: @jlevcomedyFollow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod Please rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 5, 202657 min

Ep 44Alone Being Co-Authors with Emily Wibberley and Austin Siegemund-Broka

E

This week we are joined by Emily Wibberley and Austin Siegemund-Broka. Emily and Austin met and fell in love in high school. Austin went on to graduate from Harvard, while Emily graduated from Princeton. Together, they are the authors of multiple novels including The Roughest Draft and Reese's YA Bookclub Pick Heiress Takes All. They are also two-thirds of USA Today bestselling author E.B. Asher. Now married, they live in Los Angeles, where they continue to take daily inspiration from their own love story. Check them out!In this episode, Emily and Austin discuss their unique journey as a couple and co-authors. They discuss the challenges and joys of writing together, balancing their personal and professional lives, and the inspiration behind their latest book, "Seeing Other People." The couple shares insights into their creative process, the influence of their backgrounds, and how they navigate the complexities of parenthood while maintaining their collaborative spirit. Recommendations From This Episode: The Ghost of UsNational TreasureFollow Emily: @wibbs_inkFollow Austin: @austins_bFollow E.B. Asher: @eb_asherFollow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpodPlease rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec 29, 202546 min

Ep 43Alone Being a Dog Mom with Comedian Lucy Sandwick

E

This week we are joined by Lucy Sandwick. Lucy Sandwick is a comic and sketch writer based in NYC. She's been a semi finalist in the NY Queer Comedy Festival and Comedy Mob Festival, and her videos have garnered millions of views across TikTok, Instagram, and her enemies' group chats. Follow her @lucysandwick!In this episode, Lucy shares her experiences growing up with brothers and how it influenced her career in comedy. She discusses the challenges and joys of adopting her dog, Cricket, and how it taught her valuable lessons about judgment and perseverance. Lucy also reflects on her time living in different cities, including New York and San Francisco, and how these experiences shaped her identity. The conversation touches on the importance of finding one's own path and the unexpected ways life can unfold. Recommendations From This Episode: The Dogist30 RockOh, Mary!Follow Lucy: @lucysandwickFollow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpodPlease rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec 22, 202559 min

Ep 42Alone Writing Norse Mythology Romantasy with Author Rachel Van Dyken

E

This week we are joined by Rachel Van Dyken. Rachel Van Dyken the #1 New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA TODAY bestselling author of regency and contemporary romances. When she's not writing you can find her drinking coffee at Starbucks and plotting her next book while watching guilty-pleasure TV. Her new romantasy FALLEN GODS from Red Tower Books is out now.In this episode, Rachel discusses her diverse writing career, which spans multiple genres including fantasy, romance, and mafia stories, and explains the importance of research in her work. Rachel also opens up about the pressures of being an author, managing her own business, and the impact of stress on her health. Throughout the conversation, she reflects on her Norwegian heritage and how it inspired her latest book, "Fallen Gods," dedicated to her grandfather. Rachel's story is one of resilience, creativity, and the pursuit of passion.Recommendations From This Episode: Girls5evaThe Vikings!: Crash Course World HistoryNathan Hill - The NixFollow Rachel: Instagram: @rachvd TikTok: @rachvdRachel’s Facebook Group: Rachel’s New Rockin’ ReadersFollow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod Please rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec 15, 20251h 3m

Ep 41Alone Being Albanian with Comedian Ivi Demi

E

This week we are joined by Ivi Demi! Ivi is a Brooklyn comic originally from Albania. He was voted the Best House Comic at the Laugh Index Theatre in DC for 2020 and 2021. He has performed at the DC Improv, DC Comedy Loft, Gotham, Comic Strip, the Riot Comedy Festival, and the Burbank Comedy Festival, where he was selected to the Best of the Fest for 2021. You can see him producing and performing in shows for Don’t Tell Comedy across the East Coast.In this episode, Ivi shares his journey from Albania to the United States, highlighting his experiences growing up in a small town in upstate New York. Ivi discusses his unique cultural background, blending Albanian heritage with American life, and how this has influenced his comedy career. He reflects on the challenges and joys of adapting to a new culture, the importance of community support, and his path to becoming a comedian. Ivi's story is one of resilience, humor, and the pursuit of personal and professional growth.Recommendations From This Episode: GlobleInto The WildFollow Ivi: @ivi.demiWebsite: https://www.ividemi.com/Follow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod Please rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec 8, 202558 min

Ep 40Alone Writing A Well Researched Texas Thriller with Author Laura Griffin

E

This week we are joined by Laura Griffin. Laura Griffin is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than thirty books and novellas. Her books have been translated into fourteen languages. Laura is a two-time RITA® Award winner as well as the recipient of the Daphne du Maurier Award. Laura got her start in journalism before venturing into the world of writing fiction. She lives in Austin, Texas, where she is working on her next novel.In this episode, Laura shares her journey from journalism to fiction writing, focusing on her latest book, "Innocence Road." She discusses the importance of visiting real locations for authenticity in her storytelling. Laura also explores themes of returning to one's roots and the evolving role of DNA in solving cold cases, which often inspire her writing. Recommendations From This Episode: Innocence RoadMare of EasttownKarin Slaughter - Pretty GirlsFollow Laura: @lauragriffinauthorLaura’s Website: lauragriffin.comFollow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod Please rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec 1, 202559 min

Ep 39Alone Having an Emotionally Intelligent Dad with Comedian Zaib Pirani

E

This week we are joined by Zaib Pirani! Zaib is a stand-up comedian in New York City, who makes jokes about his life; especially about growing up in a family of previously-undocumented Indian-Muslims in Sugar Land, Texas.In this episode, Zaib shares his journey from Texas to New York, exploring his experiences with religion, community, and comedy. He discusses the challenges of fitting into traditional religious communities and how comedy helped him find a sense of belonging in New York. The conversation delves into the nuances of religious identity, the impact of cultural expectations, and the importance of finding one's own path.Recommendations From This Episode: A Nice Indian BoyThe Religion BusinessFollow Zaib: @zaibpiranicomedyFollow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpodPlease rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nov 24, 202559 min

Ep 38Alone Being A Scam Hunter with Comedian Alex Falcone

E

This week we are joined by Alex Falcone! Alex Falcone is a comedian and writer living in Los Angeles. He’s appeared in several episodes of Portlandia, performed standup on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, and his videos have racked up over 300 million views online. He’s also the author of a best selling young-adult romance novel, Unwrap My Heart: or It's Time For Mummies. Despite these modest accomplishments, he’s somehow remained down to earth and approachable. In this episode, Alex, Emily, and Carly discuss the quirks of social media fame, the challenges of stand-up comedy, and the unexpected paths their careers have taken. Alex reflects on his journey from comedy clubs to TikTok stardom. You don’t want to miss Alex recounting a wild school story about a compatibility test. Recommendations From This Episode: Myth BustersThe LEGO Neighborhood Book Follow Alex: @AlexfalconeFollow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod Please rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nov 17, 20251h 5m

Ep 37Alone Switching Careers with Author Jamie Harrow

E

This week we are joined by Jamie Harrow! Jamie Harrow was born and raised at the Jersey Shore. She is a graduate of Harvard Law School and Villanova University and lives in New Jersey with her family. Her debut novel, One on One, was published by Dutton in 2024. Fun at Parties, her second novel, is available now.In this episode, Jamie Harrow discusses the importance of embracing non-linear career paths and the valuable lessons learned from diverse experiences. She discusses her experience growing up on the Jersey Shore, being the “nerd” in a sporty family, being soft spoken in school, and her experiences with identity and motherhood. Recommendations From This Episode: Little Giants The Geography of Bliss: One Grump’s Search For The Happiest Places In The World Follow Jamie: @jamieharrowbooksFollow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod Please rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nov 10, 20251h 3m

Ep 36Alone Exploring Your Colombian Heritage with Author Anika Fajardo

E

This week we are joined by Anika Fajardo! Anika Fajardo is an award-winning writer born in Colombia and raised in Minnesota. Her debut novel for adult readers is The Many Mothers of Dolores Moore. She is also the author of the middle-grade books What If a Fish and Meet Me Halfway, as well as the memoir Magical Realism for Non-Believers.In this episode, Anika Fajardo shares her journey from growing up in Minnesota to exploring her Colombian roots. She discusses her path from teaching to becoming a librarian and eventually a published author. Anika delves into her writing process, the inspiration behind her memoir and novels, and the challenges of navigating cultural identity. The conversation also touches on themes of motherhood, personal growth, and the influence of family heritage on her work. Join us for an insightful discussion on creativity, identity, and the power of storytelling.Recommendations From This Episode: Evolving VeganReading RainbowIn Cold BloodFollow Anika: @anikawriter ; anikafajardo.comFollow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpod Please rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nov 3, 20251h 0m