The Open Book Podcast
with David Steinberger

A behind-the-scenes look at books and publishing

Join us for wide-ranging discussions with publishers, editors, authors, journalists, thinkers, executives, and other makers of culture, hosted by David Steinberger, CEO of Open Road Media and Chairman of the National Book Foundation.

Love the podcast? Want to suggest a topic? Share your feedback with us at openbook@openroadmedia.com.

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Brick & Mortar Success in an Online World

Terry Finley

President and CEO, Books-a-Million

Terry Finley is the President and CEO of Books-A-Million, a chain of over 200 bookstores in 30 states. In this episode he describes the dramatic changes in book retailing since the late 1970s, when department stores and small mall stores were major booksellers, through the superstore era and to today’s marketplace with online retailers and social media influencers.

(For full transparency: Books-A-Million’s parent company, Anderson Growth Partners, is a minority investor in Open Road.)

INTERVIEWED ON: September 10th, 2025

Books discussed:

Lights Out by Navessa Allen

The viral TikTok stalker dark romance, burning with high heat, hilarious banter, and a love story like you’ve never seen before. Can you handle the ride?

Fearless by Lauren Roberts

Paedyn and Kai are reunited but face a terrible decision in this thrilling conclusion to the New York Times bestselling romantasy trilogy perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and The Red Queen.

Jujutsu Kaisen by Gege Akutami

To gain the power he needs to save his friend from a cursed spirit, Yuji Itadori swallows a piece of a demon, only to find himself caught in the midst of a horrific war of the supernatural!