
Hosted by Ali Moosa · EN

Book review: “Unladylike: A Field Guide to Crushing the Patriarchy” The panel shared their varied opinions on the book, with some appreciating its historical context while others found certain language and content objectionable. Details Jeffrey: Selected the book after following the authors’ podcast “Stuff Mom Never Told You”; appreciated the sociological aspects and how it explores gender norms across different cultures Ali: Didn’t enjoy the book due to explicit language and sexual content; would have preferred less graphic descriptions Siena: Only read the introduction before setting it aside due to explicit sexual content that felt “too forward” Lynn: Appreciated the historical aspects but found some content distracting and unnecessary; questioned the confrontational approach of “smashing the patriarchy” Macara: Enjoyed the book so far (about 1.5 hours in); valued the historical research and intersectionality in the content Conclusion The panel agreed that while the historical context and research were valuable, the explicit language and approach were divisive Different thresholds for explicit content affected individual experiences with the book Jeffrey noted the book went through multiple manuscript versions, evolving from an initial “anti-Trumpian scream” to something more inclusive Women’s names after marriage The panel discussed the tradition of women taking their husband’s last name after marriage and alternatives to this practice. Details Lynn: Shared her personal experience of hyphenating her name when married, then removing her ex-husband’s name after divorce; gave her son Kennedy (her maiden name) as his middle name, which he later passed to his daughter Siena: Noted that in Quebec and Italy, women often keep their maiden names; shared that her first name is actually her mother’s maiden name Jeffrey: Pointed out how the tradition is one-sided, with expectations only for women to change their names Macara: Observed that men are never asked if they’ll take their wife’s name or hyphenate Conclusion The panel recognized that name choices can be both feminist statements and personal/sentimental decisions Different cultural practices exist around the world regarding name changes after marriage Network changes and updates The hosts announced several changes to the network structure and communication channels. Details Macara: Announced network name change to Moosa Slobodian Network (from Broadcast Map Network) Ali: Explained that “Ali and Macara’s Books” will become “The Ali and Macara Show” to expand content horizons Macara: Noted that WhatsApp and Messenger groups will be discontinued due to spam and scammers Ali: Mentioned that a network hub site will be created to link all show sites Conclusion Changes will take effect December 1st A central hub site will make it easier for listeners to find all network shows Upcoming shows and schedule The panel discussed upcoming shows and book selections for future panels. Details Macara: Announced next Ali and Macara’s Books on Sunday at 3:30pm Eastern discussing “Small Things Like These” by Claire Keegan Ali: Mentioned Jim Tatti will appear on December 1st to discuss sports topics Macara: Noted the December 26th Books Panel will cover “Canada” by Mike Myers Siena: Suggested “The Anatomy of a Con Artist” by Jonathan Walton for a future panel Siena: Announced the upcoming Techstravaganza workshop on December 3rd about changing screen reader pronunciations Conclusion “The Anatomy of a Con Artist” was selected for January’s panel The hosts are seeking book suggestions for the remaining months of the new year Follow the Books Panel On Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/books-panel/id1810901361 On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2k8W4IQLgHgxqyDshZuar8?si=upOjdA68SHW-ajSuyOlY9g&nd=1&dlsi=ceb38dbda874450b On Audible: https://www.audible.ca/podcast/Books-Panel/B0F92X1Q8B?qid=1757778516&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&pf_rd_p=b278ed0a-c3b2-4491-808c-7cb2190a487c&pf_rd_r=Z42MGK66TE8ZT9QH33NF&plink=Dtrnf9ZCkbAy1vWd&pageLoadId=fVeu0PZlIY7CWM1x&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1 On iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-books-panel-279640240/ On Tunein: https://tunein.com/podcasts/Books-Panel-p4644216/ On Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@bookspanel Like The Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579006388583 Follow us on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/themoosaslobodiannetwork.ca Join the Discord server: Please note: if the link does not work, please let us know, and we will send you a new link privately. https://discord.gg/PuAGpKCM Subscribe to the hub site so you never miss network updates and to learn more about all of the shows: http://www.themoosaslobodiannetwork.ca Send us an email: feedback@bookspanel.ca Looking for tips and tricks on using your favourite devices? Check out Techstravaganza: http://www.techstravaganza.ca

Mel Robbins Book Discussion Overview The group discussed Mel Robbins’ book, with Siena and Lynn sharing their impressions of the content. They found the book fascinating and universal, particularly appreciating Robbins’ approach to overcoming procrastination and fear. Lynn highlighted the book’s coverage of topics like anxiety, confidence, habits, happiness, health, motivation, and relationships, and mentioned Robbins’ previous works and a TEDx talk. The discussion set the stage for delving deeper into the book’s content in the next segment. Motivational Book Insights Lynn shared her positive experience reading Mel Robbins’ book, finding it welcoming and non-overwhelming despite its motivational content, and expressed interest in watching Robbins’ TEDx presentation. She discussed how the book’s message of freedom through small changes resonated with her, particularly in relation to her grandson’s pursuit of his pilot’s license. Ali raised a concern about the potential for motivational books to promise quick fixes, but Lynn defended the book’s approach, appreciating its tone and the author’s emphasis on gradual progress and personal freedom. Mel Robbins’ Empathetic Self-Help Book The group discussed Mel Robbins’ self-help book, with Siena noting its empathetic tone and realistic approach compared to other self-help books. They agreed that Robbins’ personal experience and understanding of struggles made the book more relatable, and they appreciated her “chicken versus jerk” metaphor for describing fear and anger. The conversation touched on how self-help books often oversimplify the process and make it seem easy, with Siena sharing her experience of reading the book straight through Chapter 2 without being able to put it down. Analyzing a Self-Help Book The group discussed a self-help book, focusing on its effectiveness and the author’s credibility. Macara and Ali raised concerns about the book’s reliance on case studies and examples without personal reflection from the author. Siena suggested that some characters in the book might represent the author’s own experiences. The discussion concluded with agreement that there are multiple perspectives to consider when evaluating the book, and Lynn shared her positive experience with finding value in the book at the right time for her. Generalization’s Impact on Emotions The group discussed the concept of generalization and its impact on emotions and motivation, particularly in the context of therapy and societal expectations. Macara suggested that universal emotions might not always be a result of generalization, but rather a reflection of shared human experiences. Ali expressed concerns about the overuse of generalization and its potential to oversimplify complex emotional issues. Siena contributed by highlighting how generalization can affect different communities, including the blindness community, where individuals may be expected to achieve certain goals based on the achievements of others. Upcoming Shows and Events The group discussed upcoming shows and events. Macara and Ali announced their next studio show on October 26th at 3:30 PM Eastern, featuring a discussion of Kamala Harris’s book “The Truths We Hold.” Siena shared details about upcoming programming on SienaT Radio, including a Halloween-themed Song Bank show on October 25th from 7-9 PM Eastern, and mentioned that Textravaganza has become a podcast. The team also discussed their next panel event scheduled for November 28th at 7:30 PM, which will focus on the book “Unladylike.” Get Next Month’s Book, “Unladylike” By Cristen Conger and Caroline Ervin, on Audible https://www.audible.ca/pd/B07HFFXWK3?source_code=ASSORAP0511160006&share_location=pdp Listen to Mel Robbins’ Podcast at the Following Link https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-mel-robbins-podcast/id1646101002 Follow the Books Panel On Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/books-panel/id1810901361 On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2k8W4IQLgHgxqyDshZuar8?si=upOjdA68SHW-ajSuyOlY9g&nd=1&dlsi=ceb38dbda874450b On Audible: https://www.audible.ca/podcast/Books-Panel/B0F92X1Q8B?qid=1757778516&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&pf_rd_p=b278ed0a-c3b2-4491-808c-7cb2190a487c&pf_rd_r=Z42MGK66TE8ZT9QH33NF&plink=Dtrnf9ZCkbAy1vWd&pageLoadId=fVeu0PZlIY7CWM1x&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1 On iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-books-panel-279640240/ On Tunein: https://tunein.com/podcasts/Books-Panel-p4644216/ On Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@bookspanel Like The Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579006388583 Follow us on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/themoosaslobodiannetwork.ca Join the Discord server: Please note: if the link does not work, please let us know, and we will send you a new link privately. https://discord.gg/PuAGpKCM Subscribe to the hub site so you never miss network updates and to learn more about all of the shows: http://www.themoosaslobodiannetwork.ca Send us an email: feedback@bookspanel.ca Looking for tips and tricks on using your favourite devices? Check out Techstravaganza: http://www.techstravaganza.ca

The Curious Incident Book Discussion The group discussed their experience reading and enjoying “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time,” which they found engaging due to its unique narrative style, accurate portrayal of autism, and compelling plot. They noted the book’s short chapters and the confusion caused by its chapter numbering system, but appreciated how it was explained early on. The discussion highlighted the book’s ability to draw readers in with its forward-moving narrative and the protagonist’s detective-like quest to solve a mystery, as well as its accurate depiction of the autism experience. Christopher’s Journey Through Neurodivergence The group discussed themes in the book “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time,” focusing on the character Christopher’s experiences with his parents and the challenges he faces due to his neurodivergence. They explored how Christopher’s parents, despite good intentions, sometimes misunderstand his needs, and how the book highlights the importance of empathetic educators like his teacher Siobhan, who provides him with strategies to navigate his environment. The conversation also touched on the domestic turmoil involving the Shears family and the neighbor Mrs. Alexander, who inadvertently reveals information about Christopher’s mother and Mr. Shears. Unconventional Protagonist’s Engaging Story The group discussed the unique narrative approach of a book where the protagonist writes and narrates his own story, making the text feel more immediate and unpolished compared to typical novels. They noted how the protagonist’s detailed, sometimes humorous descriptions of his experiences, including his father hiding the book and discovering hidden letters, created an unconventional and engaging reading experience. The discussion highlighted how the book’s meta-quality and unexpected humor made it a page-turner, with participants particularly appreciating the protagonist’s three-dimensional character development and unpredictable story progression. Character’s Strategic Approaches to Situations The group discussed Christopher’s actions in the book, focusing on his ability to plan and execute strategies in challenging situations. Jeffrey and Macara described the character’s methodical approach and ability to detach from emotional distress, while Siena highlighted his meticulous planning and creative problem-solving. The discussion touched on the character’s use of logic and his ability to navigate complex situations with a clear, practical mindset. Weather’s Impact on Emotional States The group discussed how weather and environment affect mood and behavior, with Macara sharing an observation about people’s reactions to weather being independent of their physical location. Jeffrey shared his experience with seasonal affective disorder and how drastic weather changes can impact his mood. Siena noted the interesting connection between synesthesia and deep perception, referencing a scene where a character became physically ill from reading a heavy letter. The discussion explored how people’s reactions to external stimuli can be deeply personal and varied. Broadcast Map Network Content Planning The team discussed upcoming content for the Broadcast Map Network, including an episode of “Ali and Macara’s Books” on Sunday at 4 PM Eastern, where they will discuss an Audible exclusive about Alanis Morissette. Ali confirmed that the next episode of the Broadcast Map Show will air on Monday, September 29th, 2025, featuring a Maple Leafs season preview with Jim Tatti, and they will explore whether the Leafs are better without Mitch Marner. Macara mentioned that the next books panel will take place on October 24th, when the Panel will discuss “Stop Saying You’re Fine”, by Mel Robbins. The Following Link is an Interesting Blog Post that Mark Haddon wrote on his Website about “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time” https://markhaddon.com/blog/aspergers-autism Link to Get Next Month’s Book on Audible https://www.audible.ca/pd/B072BGSTHG?source_code=ASSORAP0511160006&share_location=pdp Follow the Books Panel On Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/books-panel/id1810901361 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2k8W4IQLgHgxqyDshZuar8?si=upOjdA68SHW-ajSuyOlY9g Audible https://www.audible.ca/pd/B0F92X1Q8B?source_code=ASSORAP0511160006&share_location=podcast_show_detail Youtube https://youtube.com/@bookspanel?si=ob2y7QKxRgh70GK8 iHeart https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-books-panel-279640240/ Tunein Listen to Books Panel on TuneIn Like the Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/share/1YZbrgPt8R/?mibextid=wwXIfr Join the Messenger Group https://m.me/ch/AbaILJmX-Dw_PcGc/?send_source=cm:copy_invite_link Email: (Send us a note) feedback@bookspanel.ca

Jagmeet Singh’s Memoir Discussion The group discussed Jagmeet Singh’s memoir “Love and Courage,” focusing on his early life experiences, including being sent to Punjab as a young child and his father’s struggles with alcoholism. Jeff shared his perspective on how the book highlighted universal themes of immigration, family challenges, and the courage required to overcome addiction. Siena emphasized the importance of love and courage in facing life’s difficulties, particularly for immigrants who must rebuild their lives in a new country. The discussion also touched on the technical aspects of recording the session and the need for participants to communicate any issues during the broadcast. Song Bank Show Promotion Discussion Ali and Siena discussed promoting the Song Bank show on-air that evening, with Ali preparing a board for the segment. They briefly reviewed the show’s features, including “Sound of Music,” “Undercover,” and “Foreign Exchange,” noting that the “International Stage” had been retired due to time constraints. Ali mentioned he had recorded commercials for Siena T Radio, one featuring him driving to listen to the Song Bank and another a general commercial showing him on a motorcycle. They confirmed they would resume the show after a brief off-air break. Immigrant Education and Career Challenges The group discussed the challenges immigrants face in transferring educational qualifications and skills to new countries, particularly focusing on historical experiences of immigrants from Italy. Siena shared personal family history about her grandparents’ limited education and the types of manual labor jobs they held, while Jeffrey and Ali explored how work and education have historically been interconnected. The discussion concluded with reflections on a book about Jagmeet Singh’s father, where Siena expressed both surprise and understanding at the character’s life challenges, particularly his struggle with alcohol addiction despite having achieved a medical degree. Addiction Recovery: Personal Insights The group discussed addiction treatment and recovery, with Siena, Ali, and Jeffrey sharing personal experiences and observations about the challenges of overcoming alcohol addiction. They agreed that while education about the effects of addiction is important, treatment centers need to provide more comprehensive support and practical tools for recovery. Lynn joined the discussion and shared her perspective as someone who has benefited from support groups like Al-Anon, emphasizing that while these programs can be helpful, the individual’s willingness to seek and accept help is crucial for successful recovery. Addiction’s Impact on Family Dynamics The group discussed Jagmeet Singh’s experience with his father’s alcoholism, with Samsung sharing personal insights about how addiction affects not just the person struggling with it but also their family and loved ones. They explored how family members can struggle with denial and how the addiction can create a “perfect storm” of challenges, with Samsung noting that even after recovery, the experience leaves lasting impacts on those involved. The discussion highlighted the complexity of addiction and the importance of being ready and willing to seek help, with Jeffrey adding that both the addict and their family members can experience denial and struggle with the dual reality of the person versus the addiction. Humanizing Political Memoirs The group discussed the book “Love and Courage” and its connection to Jagmeet Singh’s personal story. They admired the courage it took for him to share his experiences, especially given the potential for negative reactions from others. Jeffrey shared a similar experience with another memoir, “Beautiful Scars” by Tom Wilson, which he stumbled upon while looking for Canadian autobiographies. Both books highlighted the power of personal stories to humanize public figures and deepen understanding of their experiences. Books Panel Announces Upcoming Events The Books Panel discussed Jagmeet Singh’s “Love and Courage” and announced upcoming events, including a panel on September 26th to discuss “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime” by Mark Haddon. They also announced an upcoming episode of “Allie and Macara’s Books Returns” on September 1st, 2025, which will focus on Terry Fox’s “Hope.” The panelists encouraged listeners to subscribe to their newsletter and follow them on various social media platforms. The conversation ended with panelists expressing gratitude for the discussion and wishing listeners a happy Labor Day weekend. Follow the Books Panel On Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/books-panel/id1810901361 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2k8W4IQLgHgxqyDshZuar8?si=upOjdA68SHW-ajSuyOlY9g Audible https://www.audible.ca/pd/B0F92X1Q8B?source_code=ASSORAP0511160006&share_location=podcast_show_detail Youtube https://youtube.com/@bookspanel?si=ob2y7QKxRgh70GK8 iHeart https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-books-panel-279640240/ Tunein Listen to Books Panel on TuneIn Like the Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/share/1YZbrgPt8R/?mibextid=wwXIfr Join the Messenger Group https://m.me/ch/AbaILJmX-Dw_PcGc/?send_source=cm:copy_invite_link Email: (Send us a note) feedback@bookspanel.ca

Aliasgar Moosa, Macara Slobodian, and Jeffrey Rainey discussed “Pierre Poilievre: A Political Life,” delving into Poilievre’s consistent public and private persona, his aggressive political strategy, and his unwavering conservative beliefs. The participants noted how author Andrew Lawton connects Poilievre’s personal life to his political actions, with Jeffrey Rainey revealing Poilievre’s decision not to run in 2020 due to his daughter’s autism diagnosis, showing a more introspective side. The discussion highlighted Poilievre’s curated public image, his strong support from Stephen Harper, and the book’s portrayal of the conservative struggle against liberal institutions. Latest Broadcast Map episodes (guests will be listed first, then the website link to listen to the episode) Liam Maguire https://broadcastmap.ca/2025/07/21/nhl-off-season-and-stories-of-the-game-with-liam-maguire-monday-july-21-2025/ Amanda Shekarchi https://broadcastmap.ca/2025/07/18/the-evolution-of-broadcasting-with-amanda-shekarchi/ Ian Hunter https://broadcastmap.ca/2025/07/17/toronto-blue-jays-surprising-first-half-performance-summary/ The most recent episode of Ali and Macara’s Books, where we discussed what we read on vacation Books We Read on Vacation, Thursday, July 24, 2025 Follow the Books Panel Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/books-panel/id1810901361 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2k8W4IQLgHgxqyDshZuar8?si=upOjdA68SHW-ajSuyOlY9g Audible: https://www.audible.ca/pd/B0F92X1Q8B?source_code=ASSORAP0511160006&share_location=podcast_show_detail Youtube: https://youtube.com/@bookspanel?si=ob2y7QKxRgh70GK8 Discord: https://discord.gg/vU4BqDVcs4 iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-books-panel-279640240/ Tunein: Listen to Books Panel on TuneIn Emails, (Send Us a Note): alimoosa@bookspanel.ca macara.slobodian@bookspanel.ca

Introduction to “Values” by Mark Carney Aliasgar Moosa opened the panel discussion on Mark Carney’s book “Values,” inviting Jeffrey Rainey to share initial thoughts on the author’s experiences as Governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England (00:28:17). Jeffrey Rainey found the book became engaging from Chapter 7 onward, as it shifted from background on value systems and global financial history to Carney’s direct experiences, particularly the early warnings of the 2007 financial crisis (00:30:14). Crisis Preparedness and Policy Implementation Jeffrey Rainey emphasized Carney’s approach to crisis management, highlighting the need to prepare for the worst while hoping for the best (00:31:27). The discussion extended to the COVID-19 pandemic, where Jeffrey Rainey noted that policy decisions, like lockdowns, involved complex cost-benefit analyses concerning human lives and economic impact (00:33:06). Aliasgar Moosa added that the public’s response to COVID measures was influenced by a perceived lack of precedent and a desire to avoid restrictions (00:36:12). Individual vs. Collective Values During COVID-19 Jeffrey Rainey discussed the conflict between individual autonomy and collective well-being during the pandemic, noting that human nature makes confinement difficult (00:37:21). Lynn Kennedy observed that children often mirrored their parents’ serious approach to the pandemic, wearing masks and washing hands without excessive fear (00:51:58). Jeffrey Rainey further highlighted the shift in perspective, where people became more aware of how often they touched their faces (00:53:29). Public Response and Government Credibility Jeffrey Rainey highlighted that a government’s credibility significantly influenced public compliance with pandemic measures, noting Canada’s relatively good follow-through despite public reluctance (00:34:45). Siena Trigiani shared that while some countries acted quickly, others, including parts of Canada, showed opposition to government measures (00:41:32). Jeffrey Rainey also noted that initial public messaging about COVID-19 was often delayed or unclear, leading to a sense of distance from the threat until it became immediate (00:39:40). Challenges of Social Distancing and Masking The panelists discussed the practical difficulties of social distancing, with Aliasgar Moosa acknowledging the challenge of maintaining distance in everyday situations (00:50:52). Siena Trigiani pointed out that mask-wearing posed significant difficulties for the hard of hearing who rely on lip-reading, and Jeffrey Rainey added that it also impacted blind individuals using echolocation (00:44:24). Lynn Kennedy recalled how her grandchildren adapted well to mask-wearing, seeing it as part of a routine (00:51:58). The Book’s Accessibility and Scope Lynn Kennedy expressed surprise at how accessible Mark Carney’s book was, despite its economic focus, finding it engaging like a novel (00:54:28). Jeffrey Rainey agreed, describing it as thorough and covering big ideas and philosophies, including the history of global banks and financial institutions (00:55:33). Jeffrey Rainey summarized the book’s broad table of contents, which covers historical financial foundations, COVID-19, and climate change (00:56:31). Mark Carney’s Public Persona and Leadership Lynn Kennedy praised Mark Carney’s sensible and well-educated demeanor, noting his composure during interactions with figures like former US President Trump (00:57:26). Jeffrey Rainey suggested that Carney’s expertise in finance and diplomatic relations makes him well-suited for leadership roles, speculating that the book and his increased public appearances might have been a way for him to signal his political aspirations (00:58:47). Jeffrey Rainey observed a change in Carney’s public communication style, noting a previous reserved demeanor that has evolved into more charismatic presentations (01:00:15). Personal Reflections on the Pandemic Experience Siena Trigiani shared her initial hesitancy about reading the book but expressed interest in its historical insights into global banks (01:07:20). She also acknowledged the collective experience of the pandemic, echoing Aliasgar Moosa’s sentiment that difficult measures had to be taken (01:08:41). Siena Trigiani reflected on her personal struggle with boredom and anxiety during lockdowns, but noted that the threat of the virus has since diminished for her (01:10:22). Looking Forward to Future Discussions The panel concluded by discussing the next book, “A Political Life,” scheduled for July 25 (01:12:24). Lynn Kennedy and Siena Trigiani expressed their readiness to approach the next book with a fearless attitude, despite initial reservations, viewing it as an opportunity for expansion and growth (01:13:27). Aliasgar Moosa, Jeffrey Rainey, Lynn Kennedy, and Siena Trigiani extended thanks and well wishes for Canada Day weekend (01:12:24) (01:14:25). Follow the Books Panel Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/books-panel/id1810901361 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2k8W4IQLgHgxqyDshZuar8?si=upOjdA68SHW-ajSuyOlY9g Audible: https://www.audible.ca/pd/B0F92X1Q8B?source_code=ASSORAP0511160006&share_location=podcast_show_detail Youtube: https://youtube.com/@bookspanel?si=ob2y7QKxRgh70GK8 Discord: https://discord.gg/vU4BqDVcs4 iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-books-panel-279640240/