Cut To The Chase: Podcast Hosted by Gregg Goldfarb

How Independent Bookstores are Building Community & Promoting Banned Books in Florida | Mitchell Kaplan


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Feb 05 2025 27 mins  
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How are book lovers combatting censorship in Florida? What does it take to thrive as a bookstore in the digital age? Today’s guest is tackling those questions and much more!

In this episode of Cut to the Chase: Podcast, Gregg chats with Mitchell Kaplan, a co-founder of Books & Books and the Miami Book Fair. Together, they explore the evolution of Miami from the turbulent days of the early 80s to its current cultural renaissance.

Mitchell shares his journey from law school dropout to successful entrepreneur, opening a bookstore against the backdrop of a struggling Miami. In this discussion, you’ll discover the keys to survival in the book industry amidst the rise of large chain stores and digital transformation. He also shines light on the importance of community engagement and cultural preservation in all communities.

Plus, Mitchell shares his thoughts on combating book censorship, fostering a love of reading, and maintaining an independent spirit in a rapidly changing world.

What to expect in this episode:

  • Survival of Independent Bookstores: How Books & Books thrived against chains and Amazon by prioritizing ambiance, service, and community.

  • Cultural Evolution in Miami: Learn about Miami’s transformation from crisis to a thriving cultural and literary hub.

  • Community as the Core: Hosting 400–600 events annually, Books & Books fosters literary culture through author engagements and its Literary Foundation.

  • Combating Book Censorship in Florida: How Mitchell champions academic freedom, highlighting National Banned Book Week’s role in resisting book bans.

  • Diversification and Adaptation: Beyond books, Mitchell turns literature into film and shares insights from his podcast journey.

  • Upcoming and Noteworthy Reads: Mitchell teases exciting new releases from South Florida authors like Dave Barry, Carl Hiaasen, and Brad Meltzer.

Key Actionable Takeaways for Business Owners:

  • Emphasize community engagement to build loyalty and support.

  • Cultivate a unique ambiance and personalized service to differentiate from larger competitors.

  • Embrace diversifying offerings and adapt to digital landscapes to stay relevant. You can always try exploring related ventures (similar to films for bookstores).

  • Reinforce identity by upholding values like opposing censorship or unethical practices.

  • Nurture strong, long-term client and staff relationships to enhance loyalty and brand strength.

  • Support your local bookstores, authors, and filmmakers!

Stay tuned for more updates, and don't miss our next deep dive on Cut to The Chase: Podcast with Gregg Goldfarb!

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This episode was produced and brought to you by Reignite Media.

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