Zibby Owens Builds Literary Empire for the Time-Strapped Reader

Zibby Owens, the self-proclaimed “book impresario for people who don’t read,” has carved out a unique niche in the literary world. As the host of the popular podcast Totally Booked With Zibby, Owens has become a leading voice in book promotion, targeting a specific demographic: busy, affluent Gen X women seeking self-improvement through curated reading lists.

Owens, the daughter of Blackstone CEO Stephen A. Schwarzman, has built a multimedia empire under the banner of Zibby Media. This includes a publishing imprint, a bookstore in Santa Monica, writing classes, and luxury retreats that connect readers with authors. Her podcast, which features interviews with bestselling authors and celebrities, has become a go-to resource for those looking to stay informed about the latest literary trends without investing significant time in reading.

“I spend my time curating the best books — so you don’t have to,” Owens explains in her podcast introduction. Her approach has resonated with a wide audience, earning her the title of New York City’s top book influencer and, by extension, one of the nation’s most influential literary figures.

Owens’ guests range from motivational coaches like Gabrielle Bernstein to celebrities such as Kristin Chenoweth and Quinta Brunson. Her interviews often highlight books that align with her audience’s interests: self-help, memoirs, and fiction that explores themes of personal growth and resilience. Notable authors like Cathy Heller and Chelsea Bieker have also appeared on the show, discussing works that Owens describes as “urgent, stunning, brilliant, tender, intelligent, racy, or moving.”

Critics, however, argue that Owens’ approach lacks discernment. “There is no discrimination, no discretion, no distinction — just an interminable chain of chatter,” one observer noted. Despite this, her influence continues to grow, with her podcast amassing a massive following and her books garnering thousands of reviews on platforms like Amazon.

Owens’ success reflects broader trends in the publishing industry, where the rise of BookTok and other social media-driven literary communities has shifted the focus toward emotional impact and lifestyle fit. Her work exemplifies what some call the “commodification of books,” where literature is marketed as a tool for personal betterment rather than an art form.

In addition to her podcast, Owens has authored several books, including the 9/11 memoir Bookends, which explores themes of loss, motherhood, and self-discovery. Her writing often mirrors the narratives she promotes: stories of overcoming adversity through love, self-affirmation, and the transformative power of reading.

As the literary landscape evolves, Zibby Owens remains a polarizing yet undeniably influential figure. Her ability to connect with a specific audience — and her relentless optimism — have cemented her place in the world of books, even as debates about the future of reading and publishing continue.