Totally Booked with Zibby: Episode Featuring Jordan Roeder on "Moms Like Us"

Release Date: May 7, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Totally Booked with Zibby, host Zibby Owens interviews bestselling author and screenwriter Jordan Roeder about her latest novel, Moms Like Us. The conversation delves into Jordan's creative process, the themes explored in her book, and her experiences balancing writing with motherhood.

Guest Background

Jordan Roeder is a multifaceted writer known for her novels, screenplays, and television scripts. She has successfully adapted her novel Camp Rules into a feature for Paramount and has developed several projects for major studios and streaming platforms. Jordan's latest work, Moms Like Us, is published by Little A and continues her exploration of female-driven narratives.

Notable Quote:

"Jordan is a published novelist, screenwriter, and TV writer producer. She adapted her second novel, Camp Rules into a feature for Paramount and set up several features after that based on original ideas, formats, and books." [02:32]

Exploring "Moms Like Us"

Zibby expresses her enthusiasm for Moms Like Us, describing it as a blend of a sitcom and a limited series. Jordan elaborates that the novel begins with a murder at a private school's glamping trip in Santa Barbara, unraveling the lives of four Los Angeles private school moms who harbor secrets and motives.

Notable Quotes:

"The book starts with a murder, as any good satire does... we follow these four Los Angeles private school moms who really would do anything to protect their kids and their secrets." [04:38]

"I wrote it with the intention of it being a show. And so I'm really happy that it read like a show, because that's important." [05:24]

Themes and Insights

Jordan discusses the book's exploration of competitive motherhood and the societal pressures women face. She highlights the current cultural moment where women feel more empowered to express their true feelings and frustrations without judgment. This honesty is central to the novel's appeal, offering readers a sense of camaraderie and understanding.

Notable Quotes:

"I feel like we're in this moment now where it's okay to say, like, you know, to say your true feelings without being judged for it necessarily." [08:00]

"When I read things about women who share some of those thoughts, I feel less alone." [08:00]

Writing Process and Challenges

Jordan shares her journey in writing Moms Like Us, starting during a difficult back-to-school night that left her feeling inadequate as a mother. Initially conceived as a therapeutic exercise, the novel evolved over four years, influenced by real-life experiences and the writer's strike. She emphasizes the difficulty of balancing intense writing sessions with the responsibilities of motherhood.

Notable Quotes:

"I started writing it that next morning. And this was four years ago... it was like therapy." [05:40]

"I have to kind of go a bit dark if I'm going dark. Like I have to get into those, like, that kind of mindset." [24:00]

Character Development and Authenticity

The discussion touches on the authenticity of the characters, particularly Millie's lesbian relationship with the headmaster. Jordan admits her lack of personal experience in such relationships but sought to create genuine interactions through conversations with friends. This commitment to authenticity enhances the novel's relatability and depth.

Notable Quotes:

"I really wanted Millie's first experience kissing, you know, Eva, to feel real." [11:05]

"It was very hard to go to those places when you're also momming." [24:00]

Balancing Personal Life and Writing

Jordan humorously recounts the challenges of writing while managing family life, including dealing with kids' texts and household interruptions. She highlights the importance of finding moments of solitude to focus on her craft, despite the distractions that come with parenting.

Notable Quotes:

"I'm writing a sex scene in, you know, a minivan. Woman cheating on her husband in Trader Joe's." [24:00]

"Kids. I get a text that's like, capital letters mom. Okay, Lose my number." [25:26]

Upcoming Projects and Future Plans

Looking ahead, Jordan discusses her ongoing projects, including adapting another novel, Stone Cold Fox, and collaborating with her husband on producing various media projects. She expresses excitement about the possibility of adapting Moms Like Us into a television series, aligning with her original vision for the novel.

Notable Quotes:

"I'm working on that with Julie Pleck's company... I am pitching that out to buyers." [27:31]

"I actually work with my husband on a couple things, producing." [27:31]

Conclusion

The episode concludes with Jordan expressing gratitude for the support from Zibby and the listeners. Zibby encourages the audience to engage with Jordan's work and stay connected through social media.

Notable Quotes:

"Thank you for all your support. I really appreciate it." [31:51]

"If you loved the show, tell a friend, leave a review. Follow me on Instagram @zibbyowens and spread the word." [31:57]

Key Takeaways

• Authentic Storytelling: Jordan Roeder prioritizes genuine character development, drawing from real-life experiences to create relatable and multifaceted characters.

• Cultural Relevance: Moms Like Us taps into contemporary discussions about motherhood, societal expectations, and women's empowerment.

• Balancing Act: The conversation highlights the challenges authors face in balancing personal life with the demanding process of writing and creating.

• Future Endeavors: Jordan is actively involved in multiple projects, including adaptations for film and television, showcasing her versatility as a writer and producer.

Stay Connected:

• Jordan Roeder: Follow her latest works and updates.
• Totally Booked with Zibby: zibbymedia.com | Instagram: @zibbyowens

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