Introducing the Read. Talk. Grow. podcast: Let's talk health — with books

All readers can recall the magical moment when they were reading a book and recognized themselves in the pages — maybe feeling surprised to find themselves thinking, "I'm not alone." Books not only provide us with a sense of solidarity but also expose us to new worlds.

In the same way that books can transport us to a different time, place, or culture, the Read. Talk. Grow. podcast demonstrates that books can also give a new appreciation for health experiences.

A podcast where we talk about books — especially fiction, memoir and narrative nonfiction — that deal with important health topics. In each episode, host Dr. Denise Millstine invites an author and a medical expert into conversation on subjects like miscarriage, cancer, relationships, mental health and more.

We'll focus on:

• Memoir that features the writer's experience and research.
• Fiction stories that will add to your understanding of a health condition — even when it's not the main focus of the narrative — often without providing hard facts or data.
• Creative nonfiction providing answers to your questions in a format that encourages reading the whole book.
• Nonfiction As a publishing company focused on reliable nonfiction information about health, we'll feature some of our own books in addition to other trusted sources.

Past episodes have featured:

• Bestselling author Kirsten Miller, whose supernatural thriller, "The Change," shifts the narrative around middle-aged women's power, in conversation with Mayo Clinic women's health expert Dr. Paru David.
• Laurie Notaro, author of the hilarious "Excuse Me While I Disappear," and Mayo Clinic expert Dr. Erum Jadoon finding the bright side to the physical, emotional and mental challenges of aging.
• Emily Critchley, author of the mystery novel "One Puzzling Afternoon," in conversation with Mayo Clinic expert Dr. Dixie Woolston, discussing the challenges, humanity and capabilities of those with dementia.

Mayo Clinic Connect will be a home for podcast listeners and readers to join the discussions surrounding books and health. Dr. Denise Millstine (@drdenise) and producer Lisa Speckhard-Pasque (@lisasp) will also join the discussion.

Our hope is to put the right book in the right hands at the right time. We want to move beyond nonfiction, expository resources — which are easy for you to find on your own — to readable books that you'll want to read cover to cover.

Join us!