Over the Moon: A Wondercapture Project

Over the Moon - S1:E1: Nosing Under the Tent

Discovering Wonder in Words: A Conversation with Tess Coody Anders Join Keats Miles-Wallace in a heartfelt discussion with Tess Coody Anders, owner of Pecan Town Books and Brews, about the magic of words, community, and the profound power of poetry and storytelling. They explore how books cultivate wonder, community, and personal meaning beyond mere content. Key Topics: Tess's journey from childhood reading escapes to owning her independent bookstore The role of words as a lifelong love and creative outlet How small bookstores foster community, curated experiences, and productive collisions of ideas The unique power of poetry to connect to collective consciousness and universal wonder The significance of sharing books and experiences in nurturing creativity and empathy The challenges and truths of being a small business owner amidst everyday chaos Reflections on literature, including Jane Austen, her disruptive themes, and their relevance today The impact of life-changing moments, especially in the context of family and parenthood Perspectives on AI, authentic human creativity, and the evocative power of genuine art The importance of future-thinking with cultural and environmental responsibility (the seven generations concept) The joy of literary discovery and the enduring nature of meaningful stories Timestamps & Highlights (00:00) - Introduction to Tess Coody Anders and her love for words (02:17) - The lifelong impact of reading and writing from childhood to journalism (11:12) - Poetry as a gateway to universal connection and collective consciousness (13:08) - The wonder in everyday moments, even amidst business chaos like plumbing issues (21:46) - How the birth of her grandchild reshaped her perspective on urgency and presence (24:49) - Jane Austen’s enduring relevance and disruptive themes in literature (27:45) - The power of story, metaphor, and reimagining in contemporary culture (29:22) - Lauren Groff’s The Vaster Wilds: a story of internal wilderness and resilience (39:54) - The profound impact of intimate book events and community connection (43:02) - The gift of human creativity and the dangers of dismissing genuine art (48:24) - The poetic value of authenticity, emotion, and the collective experience (55:14) - Wondering about the future, the universe, and humanity’s place in it (57:42) - The importance of big thinking, legacy, and the influence of metaphysical poetry Resources & Links Lauren Groff's The Vaster Wilds [https://laurengroff.com/book/the-vaster-wilds/] Slouching Toward Bethlehem by Joan Didion [https://www.joandidion.org/joan-didion-books/slouching-towards-bethlehem] Richard Powers' The Overstory [https://www.richardpowers.net/the-overstory/] Connect with Tess Coody Anders Pecantown Books and Brews Website [https://pecantownbooks.com/] Additional Insights Tess emphasizes curating experiences over stocking books administratively, creating spaces that foster engaging discussions and community bonding. Poetry’s role in revealing universal truths through subtlety, metaphor, and emotional resonance. The discussion critiques AI’s imitation of genuine human storytelling, warning of the loss of collective wonder and connection. The concept of thinking seven generations ahead guides environmental and cultural stewardship, emphasizing responsibility beyond our immediate lives. --- What did you find most inspiring or thought-provoking in this conversation? Share your reflections and keep the wonder alive. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wondercapture.substack.com [https://wondercapture.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1]

Welcome to Over the Moon: A Wondercapture Project

Transcript: We say it all the time — I wonder… — and usually leave it there. A fleeting moment of curiosity at least, awe at best. In a world that makes it increasingly difficult to determine truth, we’ve decided to engage in the practice of wonder. Seeking the things that make you stop and say wow. Over the Moon is a podcast where people get to nerd out about the things they’ve devoted their lives to — and the beautiful pieces that keep them coming back. The mycologist who never stopped looking at what’s beneath their feet. The physicist who watched math become something they could almost touch. The astronaut who saw the moon and couldn’t explain what happened to them after. I’m Keats. I’m a pastor, a writer, and someone who believes that wonder might be one of the most radical things left. This is Over the Moon. A Wondercapture Project. New episodes coming soon. Over the Moon: An opportunity to dwell in awe. Subscribe to never miss the chance. A lot is going on in my life right now. But it turns out this is a perfect time to get to know amazing people — and to wonder both at them and the things they love. I’m glad you’re here. Have someone in mind who should be on the show? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wondercapture.substack.com [https://wondercapture.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1]