In this episode of Front Porch Radio, host Julie Wilder explores the world of independent bookstores in Central Florida in celebration of Independent Bookstore Day on April 26. Julie is joined by Jane Rodriguez, owner of The New Romantics bookstore, and Natisha Asbell, founder of Authentic Books. Together, they discuss their unique niche bookstores, their origin stories, and the importance of community events in their spaces. Jane shares her passion for romance novels and innovative events like cozy crafting series and book swaps. Natisha talks about her immersive subscription box service that blossomed into a brick-and-mortar store, providing curated bookish experiences. They also share insights into managing burnout, balancing work with personal lives, and the significance of community support in their ventures. Special guest Thomas Thorspecken, sketch artist behind Analog Artist Digital World, joins the episode to capture the essence of the show through his art.
00:00 Introduction to Front Porch Radio
00:41 History and Evolution of Independent Bookstores
01:16 Meet the Bookstore Owners
02:13 Jane Rodriguez: The New Romantics
02:36 Natisha Asbell: Authentic Books
21:40 Julie Wilder: Spiral Circle Bookstore
29:21 Community and Events
35:39 Navigating Online Dating
37:04 Bookstore Events and Community Engagement
40:35 Curating Unique Book Bundles
44:51 Balancing Work and Self-Care
48:29 Challenges and Growth in Business
54:00 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts
About our Guest
Jane Rodriguez is a self-proclaimed multi-passionate entrepreneur and the proud owner of The New Romantics, Orlando’s only romance-exclusive bookstore. With a deep love for all things romance—books, stories, and community—Jane has built a space where connection, joy, and kindness are at the heart of everything. Whether she's hosting author events or recommending her latest favorite read, Jane is passionate about uplifting the romance genre and the vibrant community around it. When she’s not in the shop, you’ll find her listening to audiobooks and playing cozy games. Her guiding principle? Lead with kindness—and always, community first.
Jane’s Recommended Reading on Bookshop.org
Find her online: Instagram - www.authenticbooks.com
Natisha Asbell is a mother of three, a wife, and the visionary founder of Authentic Books—a subscription box and bookstore experience that blends the magic of storytelling with intentional self-care. A publishing professional turned entrepreneur, Natisha launched Authentic Books during the pandemic to create immersive, multi-sensory reading experiences inspired by the five senses. Today, the brand has blossomed into a thriving community hub, complete with monthly literary events, a build-your-own-book tote experience, and a growing storefront. As a proud Tory Burch Foundation fellow, Natisha continues to champion wellness, creativity, and connection—on the page and in real life.
Natisha’s Recommended Reading on Bookshop.org
Find her online: Instagram - www.thenewromanticsbooks.com
Thomas Thorspecken, an illustrator, animator, and urban sketcher, he has a passion for capturing the world one drawing at a time. After years animating films, he turned his focus to sketching real life—founding Analog Artist Digital World, a daily illustrated blog documenting Orlando’s creative scene. Whether teaching, mural painting, or live sketching local events, his work is all about storytelling through art and inspiring others to do the same.
Find him online: https://analogartistdigitalworld.com/
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