" Moving The Tassels Moving The Tassels Moving The Tassels "
CBS People of Distinction
CBS People of Distinction is a nationally and internationally syndicated radio program that spotlights authors, thought leaders, and innovators whose work sparks meaningful conversation. Hosted under the CBS Radio umbrella, the show goes beyond surface-level promotion and dives into the ideas behind the work. Each episode is designed to challenge listeners, invite reflection, and highlight voices that are shaping culture, faith, and society. It’s not about hype, it’s about substance. That’s what sets the program apart.
The Host Benjie Cole
Benji Cole is the host of People of Distinction and the son of legendary broadcaster Al Cole. Known for his thoughtful, curiosity-driven interview style, Benji has built a reputation for asking the questions people actually want answered. He doesn’t rush conversations or soften challenging ideas. Instead, he creates space for authors to explain their message with clarity, honesty, and depth, making complex topics accessible to a wide audience.
What inspired the author of the book?
The inspiration behind The Madness of March: A Love Story came from Marguerite Nardone Gruen’s lifelong love of sports, particularly college basketball. Living near the University of Scranton, she and her husband regularly attended basketball games and became immersed in the excitement and energy surrounding the sport. Years later, while watching March Madness on television, memories of those games sparked a new idea. She envisioned a story about a talented basketball player whose life begins to unravel because of the choices he makes and the pressures that come with fame. Combined with her passion for storytelling, that inspiration grew into a novel that explores love, friendship, redemption, and the consequences of one’s actions.
What is the book all about?
The Madness of March: A Love Story is a compelling novel that blends romance, family drama, personal growth, and the thrilling backdrop of college basketball. At its center is a story about relationships, second chances, and the impact that the people around us have on our lives. The novel follows characters who face difficult decisions, personal struggles, and emotional challenges while navigating the consequences of their past actions. Themes of addiction, forgiveness, family reconciliation, friendship, and redemption are woven throughout the story. While basketball serves as an exciting setting, the heart of the novel lies in its exploration of human relationships and the power of love and support to help people overcome adversity.
Who is the author of the book?
Margarite Nardone Gruin is an author whose path to writing was both unexpected and inspiring. Before becoming a novelist, she built a successful career managing inventories and warehouse operations for major companies including Kraft Foods, Nabisco, and Cadbury. Writing was never part of her original career plans. However, after experiencing a vivid dream that stayed with her long after she woke up, she felt compelled to write what would become her first novel. That creative spark eventually led to The Band Four trilogy and later The Madness of March: A Love Story. Known for creating emotionally engaging characters and relatable life situations, Margarite writes stories that connect with readers on both a personal and emotional level.
Why does this book deserve to be featured and known worldwide?
The Madness of March: A Love Story deserves recognition because it explores themes that resonate with readers everywhere. While the novel is set against the backdrop of college basketball, its message extends far beyond sports. It highlights the importance of friendship, family, accountability, forgiveness, and the lasting impact of the choices we make throughout life.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its reminder that people are often shaped by those they surround themselves with. Through its characters and their journeys, the novel demonstrates how positive relationships can inspire growth while negative influences can lead to hardship. The story also offers hope by showing that mistakes do not have to define a person’s future and that redemption is always possible.
Featured on People of Distinction, the novel stands out as a story that combines entertainment with meaningful life lessons. Its relatable themes, emotional depth, and inspiring message make it worthy of reaching readers around the world who seek stories about resilience, love, personal growth, and the power of second chances.