Podcast: So You Want to be a Writer

Meet Amanda Willimott, who talks about her historical fiction novel Winter of the Wolf, informed by extensive research. Amanda reveals how she got her book deal with Penguin Random House and the power of persistence, planning and mentorship. You can listen to the episode below, on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify,

Meet bestselling author and screenwriter Christian White on his novel The Ledge and writing the Netflix hit Clickbait, his writing process, and his transition from books to screenwriting, including his work on TV shows like Clickbait and Apartment 7A. You can listen to the episode below, on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify,

Meet Ariane Beeston, who shares insights into her powerful memoir Because I’m Not Myself, You See, exploring postpartum psychosis, her writing journey, and the therapeutic yet challenging process of recounting personal experiences. This memoir is brave and beautifully written. As a graduate of Australian Writers’ Centre, we’re so thrilled for

Meet bestselling author Paula Hawkins, whose new book The Blue Hour explores a psychological thriller set on a Scottish island. Paula discusses her writing process, research on art, transition from a finance journalist to a novelist, how she wrote four romance novels under a pen name and her experiences following

Meet Ryan Butta, author of the new biography, The Bravest Scout at Gallipoli – a previously untold story of one of Australia’s forgotten wartime heroes. In this lively and interesting conversation, Ryan shares what led him to tell this particular story, his research process and other fascinating stories from here

Meet Dani Vee, publisher at Larrikin House, whose latest book is Riley’s Failproof Guide to Breaking a School Record, and her soon-to-be-released book is My Pet Croc. Dani shares her writing process but also provides insights into the children’s publishing industry, her role as a publisher and what she is

Meet writer and comedian Jennifer Wong, who discussed her new book Chopsticks or Fork, a nostalgic exploration of Chinese-Australian restaurants, based on her TV series. Jennifer shares insights into her writing journey and balancing her work across different media. You can listen to the episode below, on Apple Podcasts, on

Meet children’s author Jess Horn, who shares her journey in writing, the inspiration behind her book Bernie Thinks in Boxes, and her intensive writing process. Jess also details her experience securing a book deal, the value of feedback, and the importance of community in the writing world. Jess provides tips

Meet Scott Ryder, a former Australian commando, who discusses his memoir Forged in Fire, detailing his 22-year military career and the transition to civilian life. Forged in Fire takes us inside the secretive world of the commandos. You can listen to the episode below, on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or

Meet Sandhya Parappukkaran, a picture book author with four wonderful books that have all been shortlisted or have won Premier’s Literary awards. This is a huge achievement for this former food technologist who started writing picture books on a whim not that long ago! Sandhya discusses her journey to becoming

Meet Lisa Kenway, author of the psychological thriller All You Took From Me. Lisa shares insights on how her medical background influenced her novel, the exhaustive research involved in writing about medieval re-enactment, and the persistence required to secure a publishing deal after three years of pitching. You can listen

Meet Bec Nanayakkara who discusses her journey to becoming a published picture book author. Bec reveals how she got her book deals, her writing techniques, the illustration process, and much more. Also discover how our app recommendation can help you keep track of submissions. You can listen to the episode

Meet Sandie Docker, who shares her journey and strategies for ensuring longevity in your author career. Sandie emphasises the importance of networking, connecting with readers, and seeking help in areas outside of one’s expertise. She also discusses her role in starting the Northern Beaches Readers Festival and how it has

Cassy Polimeni discusses her journey to becoming an author, the process of writing and publishing her books The Garden at the End of the World and Ella and The Amazing Frog Orchestra, and valuable insights into writing for the children’s market. You can listen to the episode below, on Apple

Meet memoirist Louise Southerden about her book Tiny, which details her experience building a tiny house while going through a challenging relationship. Louise shares her journey into travel writing, the dynamics of writing personal stories, and techniques for capturing the essence of travel experiences. You can listen to the episode

Children’s author Carla Fitzgerald is author of the middle-grade novel How to Break a World Record and Survive Grade 5. Carla shares insights into writing compelling stories for children and offers five must-do tips for aspiring middle-grade authors. Additionally, Nat Newman provides a practical app tip about the benefits of

In this special episode, we bring you an edited version of the recent webinar featuring bestselling author Kate Forsyth. The episode is jam-packed with insights, focusing on five essential lessons from different genres that can improve your writing. Kate Forsyth delves into historical fiction, crime and mystery, romance, fantasy, and

Meet Deborah Frenkel, author of four picture books including her most recent: 100 Schools Days and The Truck Cat. Deborah reveals her journey to publication, her creative process and tips for aspiring authors. You can listen to the episode below, on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or add the podcast RSS feed manually

J.P. Pomare on writing gripping crime thrillers and his latest novel 17 Years Later. J.P. discusses his writing process, research methods, and experiences with book adaptations into TV series. The episode features insights on maintaining creativity, the importance of method writing, crafting captivating crime narratives, and tips for aspiring writers.

Meet Lian Tanner, who reveals 5 strategies you need to build longevity into your author career. Lian also discusses her latest picture book, When the Lights Went Out. Lian covers: writing to your passions rather than market demands, seeking valuable feedback, continually learning the craft, and being open to reinvention.