From Bookstore Owner to Author: Annie B. Jones on Owning The Bookshelf & Her New Book
Release Date: 05/02/2025
Practical Safety Tips: Do’s and Don’ts Every Woman Should Know
The SavvyCast
In this episode, I’m diving into practical do’s and don’ts every woman should know to stay safe in everyday life. Whether you’re running errands, walking your dog, or traveling, these proactive safety tips are designed to help you feel more prepared and confident. From simply trusting your gut and being observant to knowing when not to wear headphones or when to make a scene, these simple yet powerful strategies can be the difference between your safety and becoming a victim. My goal is to equip you with tools to help you avoid dangerous situations and take control of your...
info_outline
Honest Q&A with My Husband: Marriage, Parenting, & Menopause
The SavvyCast
In this week’s episode, I’m joined by my husband, Zane, for a candid Q&A where we answer your questions! I asked my Instagram followers on my IG Story to submit their biggest questions, and together we’re covering it all: faith, marriage, parenting, grandparenting, finances, business, and even menopause. If you’ve ever wondered what life, marriage, and faith look like behind the scenes for us, this conversation is full of practical wisdom, honest reflections, and even a laugh or two. QUESTIONS ANSWERED IN THIS EPISODE: Why did Zane convert to Catholicism? Do Catholics...
info_outline
Hosting a Small Group: Meals, Marriage, & Meaningful Community
The SavvyCast
A sweet follower asked me all about our small group, which inspired this episode, and I couldn’t wait to share with all of you! Over the past 8 years, my husband and I, along with our dear friends Debra and Bobby, have had the privilege of hosting and leading a marriage-focused Bible study small group. In this conversation, I’m opening up about what our small group looks like week to week, how we structure meals, what we’ve studied, and the impact this community has had on us and the couples we’ve walked alongside. Whether you’re thinking about starting your own church small group or...
info_outline
15 Costco Items You Need for Cooking & Entertaining this Season
The SavvyCast
The holiday season is officially here, and that means tailgates, fall festivals, Halloween parties, Thanksgiving feasts, Christmas gatherings, and all the festive events in between! In this episode, I’m sharing 15 must-buy Costco items that will make entertaining and hosting guests so much easier this season. From bulk pantry staples to time-saving essentials, these are the products that will help you prep ahead, entertain effortlessly, and spend more time enjoying the celebrations rather than stressing in the kitchen. Whether you’re planning a cozy fall gathering or a big Christmas...
info_outline
Must-Have Baby Items Every Grandparent Should Keep at Home
The SavvyCast
Becoming a grandparent is such a joy, but it also means stocking your home with the right baby items to make visits smoother and more enjoyable. In this episode, I’m sharing the must-have baby products and baby gear that have been game changers for me as a new grandparent. I became a grandmother less than two months ago, and just welcomed my second grandbaby yesterday—so these recommendations are fresh from real-life experience! From the SNOO Smart Sleeper and Baby Einstein Tummy Time Activity Mat to hooded baby towels, the UPPAbaby stroller and car seat, and more, I’ll walk you...
info_outline
The Best Apple Cinnamon Recipes: Crisps, Cobblers, & Pies You’ll Love
The SavvyCast
If you love warm, cozy apple cinnamon recipes during the fall and winter months, this episode is for you! I’m sharing my go-to apple cinnamon desserts, from skillet apple crisp a la mode to baked cinnamon apple chips, along with tips on choosing the best apples for baking (and which ones to avoid). You’ll also hear my secret for the best store-bought apple pie filling, plus tried-and-true recipes like apple dump cake crisp, paper bag apple pie, skillet apple cobbler, and streusel baked apples. RECIPES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: MORE APPLE CINNAMON...
info_outline
Emma’s Life After the Palisades Fire: Where She Is Now & What’s Next
The SavvyCast
In this episode, I sit down with my youngest daughter, Emma, to share her firsthand experience living through the Palisades Fire that swept through Los Angeles earlier this year. From a last-minute evacuation to her apartment being deemed unlivable and losing nearly all of her belongings, Emma walks us through the chaos, the heartbreak, and the incredible community that supported her through it. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: Emma shares a detailed account of the day the Palisades Fire hit Los Angeles The evacuation process: gridlocked traffic and her roommate quickly packing a bag of...
info_outline
Luxury Home Decor for Less: Hidden Gems on T.J. Maxx’s Website
The SavvyCast
If you love high-end home décor but don’t love the price tags, this episode is for you! Jamie shares her favorite luxury home décor brands (such as Theodore Alexander, Gabby, Regina Andrew, Visual Comfort, and more) that she’s scored for a fraction of the price on T.J. Maxx’s website. Jamie reveals exactly what to look for, how to find these high-end brands online, and what to know about returns, especially for items over $500. This episode will help you get that elevated, designer look without the designer budget. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS A roundup of luxury home décor...
info_outline
Which Beauty & Skincare Treatments Actually Make a Difference (Botox, Sculptra, Microneedling & More)
The SavvyCast
In this episode, Jamie gives her honest take on which beauty and skincare treatments are truly worth the time and money (and which ones she wouldn’t do again). From her go-to microneedling and nanoneedling treatments to Botox injections and Sculptra, Jamie breaks down what’s worth the splurge and what to skip (like the viral NuFace device). Whether you’re curious about microneedling treatments, injectables, or want to avoid costly beauty mistakes, this episode is packed with insight from Jamie’s personal experience. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS The difference between microneedling...
info_outline
Ground Beef Recipes: Easy, Family-Friendly Meals
The SavvyCast
In this practical episode, Jamie shares her go-to ground beef recipes for easy weeknight meals the whole family can enjoy. These delicious make-ahead meals will save you time and stress, especially during the back-to-school season. From childhood favorites like Sloppy Joes to unique and unexpectedly delicious dishes like Beef & Butternut Squash Chili, there is something for everyone to enjoy! GROUND BEEF RECIPES: SIDE DISHES: . WHERE TO LISTEN The SavvyCast is available on and . One of the best ways to support the show is...
info_outlineJamie Tarence sits down with her niece-in-law, Annie B. Jones—author, podcaster, and owner of The Bookshelf in Thomasville, GA—to talk about her small business, her new book, and finding beauty in an ordinary life. Annie shares her journey from bookstore owner to first-time author, the heart behind her newly-released book Ordinary Time: Lessons Learned While Staying Put, and how she's learned to stay rooted and content in a fast-paced world.
EPISODE AT A GLANCE:
-
How Annie became the owner of The Bookshelf 13 years ago and how it has grown to serve readers across the nation
-
The Bookshelf’s book subscriptions, podcast, events, and gift ideas for kids
-
What the writing process looked like—writing a book proposal, working with literary agent and Creative Director Jonathan Merritt, and choosing a meaningful title
-
What inspired the title Ordinary Time and how it reflects her message of finding beauty in everyday life
BOOKS & AUTHORS MENTIONED:
- To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
- Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi
- Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry
- Children's books:
-
-
Sandra Boynton books
-
Giraffes Can’t Dance
-
Goodnight Moon
-
Each Peach Pear Plum
-
It Looked Like Spilt Milk
-
Pat the Bunny
-
Guess How Much I Love You
-
Paddington stories
-
- Annie’s favorite authors:
- Marilynne Robinson
- Elizabeth Strout
- Anne Patchett’s nonfiction books
- Lyndsay Rush’s poetry
RESOURCES & LINKS:
-
Annie’s Podcast: From the Front Porch
-
Buy Annie’s Book Ordinary Time from The Bookshelf or Amazon (available on Kindle & audiobook)
-
Join Annie’s Patreon Book Club
-
Reader Retreat | Be sure to subscribe to their newsletter for retreat updates!
Liked this Episode? Check These Out!
Let’s Talk: The Bookshelf Thomasville with Annie B. Jones
How to Become a Writer and Publish a Book with Jonathan Merritt