Audiobook Café

The Calgary Public Library achieved a record-breaking year in 2025! They reached their highest circulation in history with 17.5 million items borrowed, which include 6.5 million digital titles. Host Jacob Shymanski catches up with Genevieve Luthy from Calgary Public Library to learn about why the library has seen a 15% increase and to discuss what purpose libraries serve in modern day for Canadians across the board. Genevieve also shares insight into her role and the fascinating work that goes into curating library collections. This episode was produced by Andrika De Lanerolle.

“Certified Beauties: More of Hockey's Greatest Untold Stories” is the latest book by Canadian sportscaster James Duthie. The book shares a collection of some of the most compelling, hilarious and heartwarming stories from the world of hockey. Host Jacob Shymanski catches up with Duthie to discuss the making of the book and the fascinating side of hockey that no one gets to see. This episode was produced by Andrika De Lanerolle.

As the movie adaptation of Andy Weir’s 2021 novel, Project Hail Mary, is making a splash at the box office, loads of people are returning to the book. Specifically, it’s fantastic audiobook edition narrated by Ray Porter, which won the Audy for best audiobook in 2022. Red Szell joins Jacob to breakdown why this book might be considered an instant classic.

Dr. Brian Goldman’s “The Casino Shift” gives you a glimpse into the real-life pressures of Canadian emergency departments in the healthcare system. Host Jacob Shymanski catches up with Dr. Goldman to discuss the making of the book and to learn about some of the methods that go behind treating patients in emergency situations. Dr. Goldman also considers the upgrades needed to improve Canada’s emergency rooms. This episode was produced by Andrika De Lanerolle.

A recent article in the New York Times shares the story of Coral Hart, a romance writer who has been using AI to mass produce over 200 books under 21 different pen names. How do you feel about the use of AI in books? Host Jacob Shymanski and guest Red Széll explore this question and give their candid thoughts. Plus, is Audible feeling competition for once? Jacob and Red discuss Audible’s cheaper subscription plan and Spotify’s venture into audiobook distribution. This episode is produced by Andrika De Lanerolle.