From the Front Porch: Episode 534 || Off the Shelf with Annie and Ashley: Summer 2025

Release Date: June 19, 2025
Host/Authors: Annie Jones & Ashley Jones
Produced by: The Bookshelf, Thomasville, Georgia

1. Introduction to the Episode

In this vibrant episode of From the Front Porch, Annie Jones and her cousin Ashley Jones dive deep into their summer adventures, primarily focusing on their recent book tour. They intertwine discussions about the books they've read, the shows they've watched, music they've enjoyed, and the items they've purchased, all while sharing personal anecdotes and experiences from their travels.

2. Highlights from the Book Tour

Annie and Ashley recount their exhilarating journey across several cities, promoting Annie's latest book, Ordinary Time. The tour kicked off in Thomasville before heading to Tallahassee, Birmingham, New Orleans, and Greenville.

• Designated Driver Duties:
  "Ashley became my designated driver because I would blame my parents..." [03:03]
  As Annie approached 35 weeks pregnant, Ashley took on the pivotal role of driving, ensuring safety and providing support throughout the tour.

• Memorable Stops and Challenges:
  They visited notable bookstores such as Little Professor in Birmingham, Garden District Bookshop in New Orleans, and M. Judson in Greenville. While Ashley had previous experience with some locations, M. Judson was a novel experience for her.

  "I had the hardest time maintaining composure just because it was so meaningful." [07:10]
  Annie reflects on the emotional release during the release day event in Thomasville, highlighting the genuine support from the community.

• Parking Predicaments in New Orleans:
  "I had to cover my eyes several times, it was just on a loop, episode after episode." [35:28]
  Jordan shares a humorous yet stressful moment of struggling to find parking, only to be comforted later by Annie's assistance during the event.

3. Summer Reading Selections

Ashley’s Picks:

• "Griffin Sisters Greatest Hits" by Jennifer Weiner:
  "Margot's got money troubles. And I think you'd like this." [19:00]
  A tale of sibling relationships set against the backdrop of the music industry, perfect for a beach read.

• "Nine Lives" by Dan Baum:
  An oral history of New Orleans through the experiences of nine individuals during two major hurricanes, offering a vivid portrayal of the city's resilience.

Jordan’s Picks:

• "Sandwich" by Kathryn Newman:
  "It's a beachy and heavy on menopause talk... a dysfunctional family, but I think they all like each other." [20:31]
  A heartfelt narrative exploring family dynamics and personal struggles.

• "Everything is Tuberculosis" by John Green:
  "It's worth getting through all of that for his message... he writes beautifully and has beautiful thoughts." [27:52]
  Despite initial apprehensions about medical jargon, Jordan praises Green's writing and underlying messages.

• "The Wedding People" by Allison and Plant:
  "It's a very hopeful book about why life is worth living. I loved it and I thought it was really funny too." [38:18]
  A humorous and touching story centered around wedding festivities and the relationships they foster.

4. Television and Movie Recommendations

Ashley’s Favorites:

• "The Pit" (HBO):
  "I do feel like I want credit for that... [re)watching ER and taking naps in the afternoon." [35:28]
  A gripping medical drama that kept Ashley engaged, despite the intense subject matter.

• "The Four Seasons" (Netflix):
  "Colman Domingo is fantastic... I loved it so much." [39:57]
  A show that vividly captures the essence of gatherings in picturesque settings, resonating with Annie and Ashley's love for ensemble stories.

Jordan’s Choices:

• "Sinners" Movie:
  "It's horror with heart... the most terrifying, but so beautiful." [36:35]
  An emotionally charged horror film that blends fear with poignant moments.

• "ER" and "Gilmore Girls":
  "Listen, if John Green writes a book, it's maybe a given that you're reading it." [23:05]
  Classic shows that offer a mix of drama and family dynamics, beloved by both hosts.

5. Musical Insights and Playlist Suggestions

Ashley’s Recommendations:

• Angie McMahon - "Letting Go":
  "They play it in my yoga class. And I think you would love it." [46:17]
  A soothing track perfect for relaxation and unwinding.

• Playlist:
  "Written by Emily Henry playlist... yacht rock songs." [45:33]
  Curated selections that encapsulate the summer vibe.

Jordan’s Picks:

• Ziggy Alberts:
  "Learn Yourself is my personal favorite. Very positive, upbeat." [45:20]
  Indie folk tunes that are both uplifting and melodic.

• Mumford and Sons - "Rushmere":
  "Beautiful harmony, beautiful words." [46:44]
  A standout track from their latest album, praised for its lyrical depth.

• Lady Gaga - "How Bad Do You Want Me?":
  "It's a Windows down summer song, in my opinion." [47:28]
  An energetic track perfect for summer drives and gatherings.

6. Engaging Podcast Discussions

Ezra Klein Show Episodes:

• Conversation with Ross Douthat:
  "They have the most lovely open-ended, open-handed, generous conversation about religion, politics, AI." [43:05]
  Exploring deep topics with a balance of perspectives, enhancing their intellectual pursuits.

• Jonathan Haidt's Interview:
  "It's so good because when you listen to stuff like that with Jordan, then we have the best conversation stations." [44:52]
  Delving into societal and psychological insights, fostering meaningful dialogues between the hosts.

7. Shopping and Purchases

Ashley’s Purchases:

• Baby Items:
  "I'm buying last-minute baby stuff... adorable outfits and books." [48:09]
  From practical essentials to charming accessories, reflecting her excitement and preparedness for the upcoming arrival.

• Books from Bookstores:
  "I bought at least two or three at every store we went to." [50:08]
  Annie's passion for literature shines through her enthusiastic book acquisitions during the tour.

Jordan’s Choices:

• Plantain Chips (Bar Nana):
  "They're so crispy. And I get the Himalayan pink salt kind." [51:24]
  A favorite crunchy snack for summer enjoyment.

• Future Purchases:
  "I'm planning for when I am home after the baby's born... non-alcoholic drinks to make you." [52:17]
  Thoughtful gestures to celebrate and support Ashley post-pregnancy.

8. Personal Anecdotes and Humorous Moments

• Traveling Together:
  "It's a certain kind of person to be able to mesh well and travel well together." [11:42]
  Annie and Ashley reflect on their seamless collaboration and mutual understanding during their travels.

• Parking Fiascoes in New Orleans:
  "I was genuinely having a great time the whole time. Except for when I had to park the car." [09:15]
  A lighthearted recount of the challenges faced while navigating busy cities.

• Jordan's Solo Movie Experience:
  "This was my very first time going to see a movie by myself." [36:41]
  Celebrating personal milestones and embracing new experiences.

9. Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

As the episode wraps up, Annie and Ashley share their current reading lists and upcoming projects, expressing gratitude for their listeners' support. They encourage fans to follow The Bookshelf’s daily activities on Instagram and visit their website for book purchases. The hosts also extend an invitation to support the podcast through reviews and Patreon, highlighting the benefits available to supporters.

Notable Quotes:

• "What's the point of being able to sing like you can if no one hears you?" — Ashley Jones [00:07]

• "Sometimes, multilingual friends are necessary to keep life interesting." — Ashley Jones [Multiple timestamps]

• "I love books. And I literally bought at least two or three at every store we went to." — Ashley Jones [50:44]

• "She was the happiest, sincerest, 'I love books' person I've ever met." — Jordan Jones [50:08]

Supporting Links and Resources:

• Books Discussed: Available for purchase at bookshelfthomasville.com

• Patreon Support: Visit patreon.com/fromthefrontporch for exclusive content and benefits.

• Featured Music:

  • Ziggy Alberts - Learn Yourself
  • Angie McMahon - Letting Go
  • Mumford and Sons - Rushmere
  • Lady Gaga - How Bad Do You Want Me?

From the Front Porch continues to be a heartwarming and insightful podcast, seamlessly blending literature, personal experiences, and cultural discussions, all from the charming backdrop of a Southern independent bookstore.