In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with Kathryn Nicolai, creator of the hit sleep podcast Nothing Much Happens and author of the audio novel On the Street Where You Live. Kathryn shares how she transformed the simple act of storytelling into a global community centered on rest, mindfulness, and human connection.
Together, they discuss the power of everyday stories, the role of sensory details in creating calming narratives, and why slowing down can help us reconnect with ourselves and others. Kathryn also offers insight into her creative process, the inspiration behind her audio novel, and how intentional storytelling can foster empathy, comfort, and a greater appreciation for the ordinary moments that shape our lives.
Whether you’re interested in mindfulness, storytelling, sleep, creativity, or discovering your next favorite book, this conversation offers thoughtful insights into the healing power of stories and the importance of finding connection in everyday life.
What We’re Talking About…
- The power of sensory details in immersive storytelling
- How storytelling builds community and meaningful human connection
- Why cozy, wholesome stories resonate with readers and listeners
- Behind the scenes of writing books and producing audiobooks
- Mindfulness, presence, and finding beauty in everyday moments
- World-building techniques for fiction, podcasts, and audio storytelling
- The connection between storytelling, emotional well-being, and mental health
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Kathryn Nicolai and her work
01:00 The origins of the Nothing Much Happens podcast
02:12 The power of storytelling for sleep and relaxation
02:53 Creating a genre: narrative sleep stories
03:50 Expanding into books and world-building
04:48 The process of writing the book On the Street Where You Live
06:02 Sensory details and emotional depth in storytelling
06:57 The importance of community and connection
08:02 The role of cozy stories in a chaotic world
08:56 Balancing multiple projects and creative energy
09:46 The future of storytelling and community building
11:03 How stories shape our understanding of the world
12:06 Closing thoughts and where to find Kathryn’s work


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