Marginalia, the act of writing notes and personal reflections in the margins of a book, has transitioned from a private scholarly habit into a viral social media phenomenon. In 2026, digital platforms like TikTok and Instagram are filled with “bookstagrammers” and “booktokers” showcasing meticulously annotated pages. Specifically, what was once considered a “taboo” that devalued…
Susan Lucci, the legendary star of All My Children, found a path to healing through Find Your Glow, Feed Your Soul by Emily Silva. Before discovering this collection of “praise of gratitude” and daily reflections, Lucci was going through a devastating time after losing her husband of fifty-two years. As a result, the grief felt…
In this episode of Books That Changed My Life, host Chris Collins sits down with Andrew Bustamante—a former covert CIA officer, Air Force veteran, founder of EverydaySpy, and co-author of Shadow Cell—to talk about the books that shaped his worldview, career, and personal philosophy. But this time, it’s not just one book. Andrew shares two…
We often view our lives through the lens of our own immediate comforts. However, this conversation reveals a more profound truth. Stepping into the shoes of those at the margins can fundamentally rewrite your worldview. In this episode of Books That Changed My Life, actor Thomas Doherty reflects on Down and Out in Paris and…
Thomas Doherty is widely recognized for his captivating roles in high-profile dramas, but Down and Out in Paris and London by George Orwell profoundly shifted his internal perspective. Before discovering this visceral memoir of poverty, Doherty lived within the polished bubble of the entertainment industry. Orwell’s raw account of the “working poor” provided him with…
We often think that success comes from having all the answers. However, this conversation reveals a different truth: The most powerful tool you can possess is a question. In this episode of Books That Changed My Life, actress Sarah Shahi reflects on how A Curious Mind by Brian Grazer helped her validate her own inquisitive…
Sarah Shahi has captivated audiences on screen for years, but her internal shift toward authorship was sparked by A Curious Mind by Brian Grazer. Before discovering this exploration of the power of inquiry, Shahi faced a pivotal moment in her personal life. She was navigating a public divorce while starring in a hit series, all…
This time on Books That Changed My Life, director Mercedes Bryce Morgan joins Chris Collins to discuss The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. Mercedes is among the most highly regarded directors working in horror today, so it may surprise some to learn that her favorite book is a comedy. But in this in-depth conversation, Mercedes…
We often assume that a passion for reading starts in a quiet classroom. However, for some, the most vital education happens between the panels of a comic book. In this episode of Books That Changed My Life, actor and comedian Jason Mewes reflects on Deadshot: Beginnings by Kim Yale and John Ostrander. This book did…