Oprah Winfrey is expanding her influence in book discussions with the launch of "The Oprah Podcast." This weekly series streams on YouTube, featuring conversations with book club authors and influential figures. Upcoming guests include author-celebrity chef Ina Garten and US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy. The podcast premiered with Irish author Claire Keegan, whose acclaimed historical novel, Small Things Like These, is Winfrey's latest book club selection. "To know that Oprah Winfrey took pleasure in reading my book is the most exquisite compliment, which will last my lifetime," said Keegan.
Winfrey's interviews will be filmed in partnership with Starbucks, hosting sessions in its cafes, starting with the Empire State Building location. Books discussed in the podcast will be paired with specific Starbucks beverages. Winfrey and Starbucks have a history of collaboration, previously teaming up in the 1990s for literacy projects and in 2014 for Teavana Oprah Chai Tea, which raised millions for youth education initiatives. This partnership emphasizes their shared love for books, coffee, and meaningful conversations.
Winfrey emphasized her commitment to connecting people and fostering new audiences for books. "Connecting with people about what matters to us in this moment, so we can all continue to reach our highest, truest potential is what I'm most interested in offering at this time in my life," she said. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)