In October of 2023, the Everyday Shakespeare Podcast recorded its very first live episode at the Brookline Booksmith in Brookline, Massachusetts.

Keeping the location in mind, the hosts, Shakespeare professors Michelle Ephraim and Caroline Bicks, decided that the show would focus on the burgeoning bookselling industry during The Bard’s time.

The Brookline Booksmith has been one of New England’s premier independent bookstores since 1961. It’s also played a vital role in serving the greater Boston community and stood as a shining beacon to those who love fiercely independent bookstores.

And even though it’s hosted modern legendary speakers such as Jhumpa Lahiri, Colson Whitehead, John Hodgman, and Molly Shannon, the honor of the first live podcast recording in the bookshop went to a writer from the late 1500’s.

Listen to the Everyday Shakespeare Podcast