Susan Gooch in the hot seat with Faith Family Fiction
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In this episode of Listen Bitch Presents: Tell Me Why You’re Special, Branden sits down with author and former educator Susan “Susie” Gooch for a heartfelt conversation about marriage, teaching, storytelling, purpose, and finding meaning in everyday life.
Susie shares her journey from aspiring attorney to beloved educator, explaining how her son’s learning challenges unexpectedly led her into a teaching career that would impact countless students over more than two decades. Known as the “school mama,” Susie discusses the importance of supporting children beyond academics and creating meaningful connections that last a lifetime.
The conversation explores lessons from her nearly 40-year marriage, including the importance of choosing commitment, embracing imperfections, supporting each other’s passions, and understanding that love is often built in ordinary moments rather than grand gestures.
Susie also opens up about retiring from education to pursue writing full-time, the inspiration behind her Carrington Series novels, and her belief that every person has a story worth telling. Together, she and Branden discuss parenting adult children, faith, family values, second chances, and why storytelling remains one of the most powerful ways to connect with others.
This episode is for readers, parents, educators, married couples, and anyone who appreciates real-life wisdom delivered through authentic stories.
Susan Gooch is the author of The Carrington Series, which includes The Carrington Affairs, The Nonnegotiable, and The Dirty Birds’ Book Club. A lifelong lover of books, history, and art, Susan spent many years as an educator sharing her passion for reading and writing with her students. She holds a BA in English and graduate degrees in education with concentrations in reading, administration, and gifted and talented education.
A proud Southern storyteller, Susan set her Carrington novels in her beloved hometown of Searcy, Arkansas. Now retired from education, she spends her days writing contemporary women’s fiction that celebrates strong women, enduring friendships, and the lessons learned from a life well lived.
An avid reader who devours more than 150 books a year, Susan actively connects with fellow readers online, highlighting favorite titles through her Instagram feature “Y’all Have Got To Read This.” A passionate supporter of book clubs, she loves discussing books and storytelling with readers everywhere.
Susan and her husband,her high school sweetheart, have been married nearly forty years. They have three grown children and four granddaughters.
Susan loves speaking with book clubs and frequently participates in discussions with readers.